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Seeds & Thunder
In my early adulthood, with aspirations not for wealth but for creative fulfillment, I disciplined myself to live down to the bone. I nurtured thrifty tastes, saving my dimes for guitar strings and reeds. With my vegetarian diet, I shopped frugally, buying from the bulk bin, shopping in season and local, for a time splitting a $200 monthly rice and beans budget with a friend. I did not drink much alcohol, did not frequently dine out, did not indulge in fancy coffees or convenient sandwiches, did not buy frivolous clothes. Glad to finally enroll in what I fondly call Hogwarts School of Music, in my first semester at Berklee, instead of scrounging together $75 for a light-weight guitar gig bag, I drilled holes in my heavy hard-shell case and fashioned it with thick piano moving straps into something I could wear on my back. It was heavy, very heavy, particularly with my clarinet and laptop slung over my shoulders. I walked or took the T everywhere, and my back bent under the weight.
In a recent newsletter to you, I wrote about raking up backyard leaves in a forgotten spot behind the garage, and my nascent vision of a cabin where I could practice my clarinet, try out song ideas, and work on essays and poems. It's been ages since I've had a room of my own, as Virginia Woolf wrote. I have long wished to sit in a windowed room and stare out the door at pale leaves as they unfurl into spring. I have wished for a room strong enough to withstand a thunder of ideas, because I have lately increasingly felt a rumble rolling through my heart, a heady mix of sound and emotion, art and media, questions and exploration.
But I also wrote in that letter about fear of failure. I was worried about wasting money on something so specifically made by me for me. It felt a little arrogant: a playhouse for a grown woman who thinks she's got some talent or ideas worth the expenditure. What if I stepped into that arrogance, that audacity of hope (as Obama says), and nothing, in the end, comes?
My fear might be rooted, in part, in an old Jewish superstition of the evil eye: If I do something so bold as build an artist studio just for myself, the heavens may train their unwanted attention on me, bringing tragedy to me or my loved ones. I should spit three times and hang a blue hamsa on the door.
My frugality (always for my own desires, contrasted sharply, I hope, with my generosity for others) might also come from the valorization of parsimonious rationing in New England, where I lived for college and music graduate school, but whose culture I had admired since childhood. It suited the environmentalist in me: reduce, reuse, recycle. What throw-away materials might I re-fashion into use? How can I avoid purchasing newly manufactured goods, with their accompanying industrial waste and unneeded expense?
But I bent beyond logic under the weight of that guitar case. I hadn't yet read Coleridge's The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, but I rued the albatross around my neck. The irony of it: that in my mid-twenties, finally glad to be at an incredible school and immersed in the study of music, I felt my instrument was a psychological curse I was tasked to bear.
It took until my early thirties to examine the cliche of suffering for my art. Till then, I had accepted carte blance the stereotype of the starving artist. Looking back, I realize how easily I could have found $75 for a gig bag, saving my shoulders and neck a little of the physical pain that inevitably comes from the weight and repetitive motion of playing instruments. But I wanted so badly to be an artist, and from the stories I'd internalized, I thought suffering an essential part of a creative life.
Fast forward to the past seven years, since Darby and the girls and I moved in together. It's a sweet house. Darby and I often say how glad we are that it isn't bigger. We want to stumble over each other, and engage with the teenagers even when they may prefer to sequester themselves in far off corners. The downside, though, is that I sometimes want to sequester myself away. As a musician, I need to make noise in order to get to the music. I am a lyrical writer, even in my prose, and tend to speak aloud every word as I write (even this, now). I've longed for a dedicated place where I can excavate my artist heart. A room of my own where I can throw ideas around, many ideas, because a good idea is not something that happens in isolation, but rather, comes out with dozens of bad-idea siblings. I've been yearning to throw spaghetti on the walls (I just love that phrase, don't you?) because something must eventually stick. Right?
But what if nothing does?
In this world of art as commerce, I have feared that the cost of building a little shed for myself won't find a return on the investment.
And then I came across this passage in Elizabeth Gilbert's book Big Magic, where she writes, "Let me list for you some of the many ways in which you might be afraid to live a more creative life:
You're afraid you have no talent.
You're afraid you'll be rejected or criticized or ridiculed or misunderstood or—worst of all—ignored.
You're afraid there's no market for your creativity, and therefore no point in pursuing it.
You're afraid somebody else already did it better.
You're afraid everybody else already did it better.
You're afraid somebody will steal your ideas, so it's safer to keep them hidden forever in the dark.
You're afraid you won't be taken seriously.
You're afraid your work isn't politically, emotionally, or artistically important enough to change anyone's life.
You're afraid your dreams are embarrassing.
You're afraid that someday you'll look back on your creative endeavors as having been a giant waste of time, effort, and money.
You're afraid you don't have the right kind of discipline.
You're afraid you don't have the right kind of work space, or financial freedom, or empty hours in which to focus on invention or exploration.
You're afraid you don't have the right kind of training or degree.
You're afraid of being exposed as a hack, or a fool, or a dilettante, or a narcissist.
You're afraid of upsetting your family with what you may reveal.
You're afraid of what your peers and coworkers will say if you express your personal truth aloud.
You're afraid of unleashing your innermost demons, and you really don't want to encounter your innermost demons.
You're afraid your best work is behind you. You're afraid you never had any best work to begin with.
You're afraid you neglected your creativity for so long that now you can never get it back.
You're afraid you're too old to start.
You're afraid you're too young to start.
You're afraid because something went well in your life once, so obviously nothing can ever go well again.
You're afraid because nothing has ever gone well in your life, so why bother trying?
You're afraid of being a one-hit wonder.
You're afraid of being a no-hit wonder."
I included the whole list here, but the two (of many) that most stuck out to me are the third and tenth. Of those, the line "You're afraid that someday you'll look back on your creative endeavors as having been a giant waste of time, effort, and money" hit a nerve.
If a friend came to me with an idea, I would urge her to pursue it, to see where it will lead. Well, after I wrote here about that morning two months ago when I began to clear out the space, I heard from a number of you. Go for it! you said. Darby might have said it loudest. The compounding encouragement was astounding, but more than support for an idea, your words were an actual amplification of a desire deep inside me.
David Whyte's poem Faith came to me recently:
I want to write about faith,
about the way the moon rises
over cold snow, night after night,
faithful even as it fades from fullness,
slowly becoming that last curving and impossible
sliver of light before the final darkness.
But I have no faith myself
I refuse it even the smallest entry.
Let this then, my small poem,
like a new moon, slender and barely open,
be the first prayer that opens me to faith.
So, this is all to tell you: I did it. It's a rule of cabins to have a name:
Welcome to Seeds & Thunder, where on a daily basis I meditate, write, play music, and watch the pale leaves unfurl. It is also the world headquarters of Seeding Thunder, a passion project that I hope to tell you more about soon.
Leave a Reply.
November 2018


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Monday, October 10, 2011
An OB and I work Together: Tracy has the VBAC of her Dreams
First, a little of Tracy's story... Tracy's first birth was the typical hospital induction that went awry and ended in cesarean section. Baby was posterior. She was induced with pitocin. She needed an epidural. The baby never rotated. She pushed for five or six hours, numb from the waist down and on her back. Not feeling the contractions, her team had to scream "Push!" for her when contractions showed up on the monitor. Rolled into surgery finally. The drugs from surgery gronked her little system so the first hours with her baby were just a blur, she can't even remember them. The first weeks were a misery of surgical pain, drug-induced fog, depression, and breastfeeding problems. She was shocked this had happened to her - her mother, grandma, and aunt all had easy natural births! She felt betrayed by her doctor, and upset with her husband and mother for not protecting her from this. She felt guilty for having such emotional turmoil around her birth experience, even though she got her healthy, beautiful baby. "My first birth was the worst experience of my life." She wanted her second to be the best.
When Tracy became pregnant again, she was determined to avoid another cesarean. She lives out in the rice fields, almost an hour from the closest hospital. She and her husband decided homebirth was out of the question due to the distance to the hospital. But VBACs are officially banned at our local hospitals! Despite this fact, OB docs occasionally tell very determined women that they CAN refuse surgery. To everyone else, they say sorry, their hands are tied! They don't want to get in trouble! Tracy's OB doc Dr L agreed that she had the right to refuse surgery. He told her that if everything was "perfect" and she showed up in advanced labor, he would attend her as a VBAC. Tracy hired me to help her do that. She planned to take a hotel room in downtown Chico to labor in. We would have her labor there, just two minutes from the hospital, We would go to the hospital somewhere between 8cms and complete and Dr L would take it from there.
Second, some back story on me and Dr. L: This particular OB has been very communicative about his disapproval of me. He happened to be on call for my two most medically intense transports from home, and let me and my clients "have it" in those cases. My clients and myself have experienced his communication style as intimidating and inappropriate at times. He tells his patients "they are crazy" if they decide to have a homebirth, or if they have had a homebirth. Tracy let him know that she had hired me to monitor and support her first stage of labor out of hospital, and come with her to the hospital as her doula for the delivery. I was shocked that he agreed to the plan!
Third, the lead-up: . I gave Tracy my best holistic prenatal care. We met several times over the months. She cried at every visit as we gave time and attention to her emotions and fears. We processed the trauma of her first birth with EFT and a supportive, listening ear. We did guided visualizations of what this birth could look like. She did acupuncture and chiropractic, and poured over the spinning babies website, www.spinningbabies.com doing the recommended exercises religiously. She prayed and meditated and practiced relaxation. She chatted on Baby Center's VBAC listserve and paid attention to what worked and what didn't work for other mamas. Dr L saw her for routine prenatal care and would ask her if he could talk her out of it. When she said "no", he said " All right then."
The Last Week: On Tuesday, she came in for what would be her last her prenatal. Her baby was STILL posterior, and she was discouraged. I checked her and found her 2cms, 80% effaced and the head low in the pelvis. Very good sign! I noticed that her pelvis did have a narrow arch at the outlet, and at 5 feet tall, her belly looked huge. Not good sign. She asked me, can I do this? I looked deep within myself, remembering that you JUST NEVER KNOW who can or cannot birth. Everyone deserves a chance! "Absolutely." I said calmly, smiling, and gave her a big hug. "You CAN." She wiped tears from her eyes for the zillionth time . "And your baby will rotate, if not before, then during labor. So stop worrying about it now, relax and soon we will have a baby." I said.
The Grand Finale: Two nights later the Call woke me up at 2:30 am. It was Jay, Tracy's hubby, telling me her contractions were 2 to 3 minutes apart, lasting a minute long. They were getting into the car and would be in Chico in 45 minutes. 2 to 3 minutes! That sounded like labor was already well underway. I called him 20 min later and he said now they were two minutes apart. Let's just go straight to the hospital, we decided. We met in the parking lot at the hospital, where I was prepared to examine her in her car to make sure it was time to go in.
Tracy got out of the car in the dark parking lot, and I took one look at her and thought, "She is completely dilated!" "Don't touch me" she growled at Jay. Then she grabbed him and bent over, putting her hand over her crotch for the contraction. I smiled at Jay. "This is great, really great. Tracy is almost done!" Over about 20 minutes, we crossed the street to the hospital. They brought out a wheelchair but she refused it. Then she climbed onto it so she was kneeling backwards on it, her bum in the air. She was brilliant, letting her body guide her and not letting anyone get in the way of that!
When we finally arrived in the labor room, she was checked by the nurse - completely dilated just as I thought, and the baby's heart sounded great. "Tracy" I said, "Why don't you get up and go to the bathroom. You probably need to do that." So we got her off the bed after only about 10 minutes and she went into the dark closet-like bathroom with me. We spent the next hour in there so she could find her own way with pushing. "Just let your body guide you" I whispered. "Push if it feels right with the contraction. For some women it feels GOOD to push". Slowly, slowly she began feeling into pushing. And over the hour she pushed with more and more gusto until finally she made those sounds that let us know the baby is moving through the pelvis. The nurses were respectful of our process. So was Dr L! He popped his head in, said "Oh , you're in the bathroom!" and disappeared for another 40 minutes. When her pushes were the roaring, baby-ejecting kind, she went onto the bed and Dr L. came in. He looked at her bulging yoni and said "Oh, the baby is coming out this way."
A few minutes later she was crowning. Dr L cut a tiny episiotomy and then looked at me and said "I only cut her a small one." "Thank you." I said, "I am sure she appreciates that." Then, the baby was born. Tracy was on the moon! "Wow! That was SO MUCH EASIER THAN I THOUGHT! I can't believe that was it!!!!!!"
Here is how she looked:
Afterwards, Dr L admitted to Tracy, "I didn't think it was possible for you to do this. I was just humoring you." "I know", Tracy replied,"That is why I hired Dena." He and I had a friendly exchange at the nurse's station, acknowledging that this was a nice collaboration of available resources, and how well it worked out. He expressed again, how with her narrow pelvis,short stature, history of a stuck baby, and the size of this baby, he had been sure she wouldn't be able to birth. I told him that I have seen VBACS like this before, and that you just never know who can do it and who can't. Everyone deserves a chance. The nurses listened, smiling to themselves. On his way out, Dr L stopped in the room one more time. "I am surprised, impressed, and proud." he told us.
I left soon after. Tracy was still flying high, raving about her experience. The baby was nursing away. My heart was full of joy. This birth has changed Tracy's life. She wanted to experience natural birth more than she has ever wanted anything. She got to experience a fierce, primal, undisturbed birth where her body just found its way! This birth also helped to bridge some of the abyss that had grown between myself and the hospital staff. I was treated like a valued member of the team. And that, dear readers, is progress for all birthing women in our community.
24 comments:
- Lynda Halliger-Otvos said...
What a huge victory for all women and their births. I love this story and all that it implies, concerns and describes.
thank you so much for sharing Tracy's birth.
- October 10, 2011 at 6:02 PM
- Jamie said...
This made me cry. Tracey is my internetty friend and so many of us have been on this journey with her. I'm soooo happy that everything worked out!! Thank you for supporting my friend.
- October 10, 2011 at 7:01 PM
- Dena Moes said...
Wow Jamie! Small world...I know she gained so much confidence from her internet friends. You all were a huge support for her journey.
- October 10, 2011 at 7:34 PM
- Unknown said...
Wow. That is such an amazing story and I'm so proud of both of you (Mama and midwife) for making that happen. I'm also happy to see that the hospital staff witnessed that this is possible and might now acknowledge that there isn't just one recipe for every birth. Good one.
- October 10, 2011 at 10:17 PM
- Dena Moes said...
I know that the nursing staff does love it when they have the opportunity to support natural birth at this hospital. They nurses there are wonderful.
- October 11, 2011 at 8:59 AM
- Dena Moes said...
But we all, myself, Dr L, and the nurses were given the reminder that there is something in birth - magical, mysterious, spiritual, psycho-emotional, call it what you will, that cannot be quantified or scientifically assessed. Thus she overcome all these "risk factors" and had a quick, straightforward birth.
- October 11, 2011 at 9:09 AM
- traceyjay said...
Thank you again Dena.
My gratitude knows no bounds. I'll let you know when I sit down to write out our story.
- October 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM
- Cat said...
Dena, THANK YOU - xxx - Tracey is also an internet/bloggy friend I've met through quilting.
I am in New Zealand, whilst VBAC's aren't 'banned' it can be difficult to find a midwife to support you.
Tracey and I have spent many emails crying with each other over our 'c-section's', and I sent so many encouraging emails regarding my healing birth, my VBAC. Her story IS my story, the drug hazed first few days, the b*feeding issues, the lack of bonding in the early hours/days. And now THANK-YOU I can say again Tracey's story IS my story - the healing VBAC!
I've just celebrated my son's 6th birthday - it was the FIRST birthday I didn't cry because I hadn't 'given birth' to him . . .
- October 11, 2011 at 12:34 PM
- elisa024 said...
So happy for you and proud of you Tracey!!!
This made me cry too!
- October 11, 2011 at 12:47 PM
- Kerry said...
What a beautiful account, can't say more but very moved
- October 11, 2011 at 2:08 PM
- L.Kiehn said...
Yeah!!! Whoot-Whoot!Congradulations Tracy for believing so deeply in yourself and congradulations my sister girl, for believing so deeply in these beautiful women!! What an amazing and beautiful story. It filled my heart.
- October 11, 2011 at 3:11 PM
- ♥Duff said...
wow! I have been so excited for Tracey and hopeful that a VBAC was in her future. I'm elated to see it's a girl!! I thought for sure it would be another boy. How thrilling!!
Thank you for your side of this wonderful story--it's a step in the direction of more natural births and doctors believing that they're possible!
- October 11, 2011 at 9:42 PM
- CJ said...
Great telling of Tracey's story! I came over from her blog. Such a precious baby she has too. :)
- October 12, 2011 at 12:31 AM
- Samantha said...
Oh Tracy I'm so happy for you! This has tears streaming down my face. I'm so glad you got the VBAC you dreamed of!
- October 13, 2011 at 11:24 AM
- Sarah Kin said...
I feel a little bit like I have a promising career as an internet stalker that I found this :) This brought tears to my eyes. I'm so, so proud of Tracey. There are two incredible stories here: the amazing story of Tracey's labor and delivery, and the collaboration between midwife and OB. Beautiful. Love to all.
- October 13, 2011 at 12:38 PM
- Sarah said...
You all rock!!!
- October 13, 2011 at 6:23 PM
- Bess Donley L.Ac said...
Such an inspiring story, thank you for sharing. I too had a c-section first time around-due to breech. I am 15 weeks pregnant and planning a home birth vbac-the more positive stories I hear the more positive I feel!!!
- October 13, 2011 at 8:24 PM
- TerrieCNM said...
I love the story! It can be done, but women have to be informed and determined. I am so happy for Tracy and her family, and so pleased to hear of the collaboration by the medical team. Good job all!!
- October 15, 2011 at 2:54 PM
- Mikelle said...
WOW! I only know Tracey through her quilting blog, and then I happened to stumble on this birth story and knew the two matched up! So glad she could have this experience.
- October 17, 2011 at 9:34 AM
- Doula Brandi said...
How absolutely wonderful for BOTH of you! Thanks for sharing!
- October 17, 2011 at 9:55 AM
- Meg said...
That is so similar to a birth I attended recently as a doula. Thankfully, minus the traumatic first c/s - just a routine breech c/s. But, I got to her house and she was obviously deep into labor, we got to the hospital and she was complete. The doc on call was clearly uninterested and put off and didn't really believe she could do it. Fortunately, a CNM was on hand and wanted to take over. She had a beautiful second stage and a gorgeous, good sized baby. Everyone was in awe - she's not a large woman. I knew she could do it, though. We're made for this and when women believe they can and have someone to believe in them it almost always works. What a great opportunity for you and that hospital.
- October 19, 2011 at 5:34 PM
- Manda said...
This is almost the same story I am dreaming of (and I'm a short woman, too). It brought tears to my eyes.
I've always wanted an unmedicated birth but I have had two c-sections that were probably not necessary. I'd "failed to progress," I let them do AROM, and nothing we did (the second time I had a CNM as well as a doula and my husband) was making my contractions effective. I'm due just after Christmas Day and we found a fantastic hospital this time. :) Even still, our plan is to not leave home until my cervix is close to complete.
- November 3, 2011 at 7:53 AM
- AJ said...
Congratulations Tracy! Fantastic birth. Thank you for sharing it with us.
- November 6, 2011 at 8:07 PM
- Ashley said...
UGH I wish you were a little closer... but California to Indiana... bit of a drive during labor ;) I am GOING to vbac after a rupture I see high risk MD and he is KNOWN for not letting vbacs happen. I am hoping for a story like this! He hasn't denied me yet and isn't discouraging me :) and he is also know for being straight to the point and rather blunt. So I am pretty sure he isn't giving me false hope- back story 1st preg 32 weeks, 5000 u heparin bid + administering CPR + awful rail road tracks @ 45 mph (i was not driving) = 12 hrs easy labor @ home while sleeping thinking I was having braxton hicks = small rupture @ 6cm 70% and C-sec...
- November 11, 2011 at 8:07 PM

subset: commoncrawl


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A friend forwarded this Treehugger article without comment to a collection of designers and eco-minded thinkers today. It addresses the problem of lazy green branding (as in papyrus font and images of cupped hands cradling a seedling, among others) and is worth a read:So... what do you all think? Comments please!
It reminded me of this recent Orion article about how we've become so consumption minded. Slightly longer, but definitely worth the time:
I also dashed off this email, which I hope can start a conversation here about the apparent divide between the two sets of ideas:
Hey All,
This seems like an excellent opening for a conversation about "marketing green," and I hope y'all will forgive the mass email response.
The article is certainly spot on as far as it goes with marketing advice. One of the things that strikes me and bothers me about the article, though (and about treehugger in general), is this idea that marketing CAN save the world; that we can either convert businesses to be ecologically friendly or we can produce new greener product lines that will replace the old. There's no doubt that there's a worthy goal in there, and that anyone who is starting a new greener business or greening their old business should be lauded.
There's an important article in the most recent Orion (May/June) titled The Gospel of Consuption, found here: http://www.orionmagazine.org/index.php/articles/article/2962
Here's the gist of it:
In a 1927 interview with the magazine Nation's Business, Secretary of Labor James J. Davis provided some numbers to illustrate a problem that the New York Times called "need saturation." Davis noted that "the textile mills of this country can produce all the cloth needed in six months' operation each year" and that 14 percent of the American shoe factories could produce a year's supply of footwear. The magazine went on to suggest, "It may be that the world's needs ultimately will be produced by three days' work a week."
By the late 1920s, America's business and political elite had found a way to defuse the dual threat of stagnating economic growth and a radicalized working class in what one industrial consultant called "the gospel of consumption"—the notion that people could be convinced that however much they have, it isn't enough.
I don't know how to deprogram the now world-wide desire for the new. I'm not even sure we can. It does strike me, though, that building a LEED house is less green than building no house at all, and that buying well marketed green fashion is less green than the thrift store or making do with what we've got. I'm not saying anything new here, but I did want to use the opportunity of this article to ask the question - how do we sell the idea of not wanting anything new? How do we build an economy and make our livings around the idea of not buying stuff?
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Green Branding vs. The Gospel of Consumption
2 comments:
- turtlewoman said...
Basically the entire "treehugger" site leaves me with a bad taste. It smacks of consumerism - IMHO. People definitely do need to make a living and many of us are now trying to do it in a more environmentally friendly way. I am also very aware that no matter how good we get at being "environmentally friendly" we will always (always as long as there are human beings on this planet)be consumers. Therefore trying to help businesses authentically "green" themselves is a good thing. There is just something about this site that does not seem very authentic to me. I may be totally off the mark - the treehugger site just might be as honest and authentic as they get. They did make some good points like suggesting that one needs to be passionate and committed to their business. However, I suspect that the CEO of Monsanto is about as passionate and committed as anyone can possibly be and we all (most of us anyway who read this blog) know what Monsanto is all about.
The Orion article laid bare the facts and some history of consumerism that I was not aware of. Namely, the propaganda that began in the early 20th century that is now so entrenched within our beings that far too many of us do not recognize that we have been brainwashed. I haven't the slightest idea how to stop the population masses from wanting more. I was not raised that way (although I do have a terribly difficult time trying to stop myself from wanting and buying more books)and neither were my 2 sons. However, my youngest son (an adult) totally believes in "more is mandatory and bigger is better". If I can't change his thinking what hope do I have to change the thinking of others of his generation (I think he is in the "X" generation)? My other son did not fall victim to this thinking.
The bottom line of marketing green means that we will continue to produce, buy, consume, and throw away even if that which is produced is authentically as green as it can be. Our collective goal at this point seems to be to try and consume less, buy products that are truly sustainable, and follow one of the major ideas of permaculture and that is to stack functions - make the product do more than one thing.
ISLAND mentioned "a world-wide desire for new". This brings to mind an advertisement for Goodwill which begins with the 2 women feeling embarrassed about shopping at a second hand store and ends with it being a good thing as long as no one else knows they are shopping there. There are two (maybe more) huge second-hand stores in TC - Goodwill and Salvation Army). There are always people in these stores when I have the opportunity to go in (I live 2000 miles away for the time being). Having these outlets is a good thing. On the other hand when I take a good look at the "stuff" that people are discarding it makes me think about what it took to produce that stuff in the first place - much of it junk. Catch-22! Still, buying 2nd hand is a good thing overall. ISLAND also mentioned building a new structure that qualifies for LEED certification. This is good and everyone does needs shelter. However, if there is a house or other building already built that could be remodeled "greenly" using recycled materials would this possibly not be even better? This is a question currently weighing heavily on my mind as we prepare to move to land in the Grand Traverse region. Should we build a new strawbale/cob home or find land with an existing home (very small house) that could be remodeled in a manner consistent with permaculture/sustainable methods?
Then there are computers - highly none-green but most of us have at least one and we seem to want to upgrade to newer, better computers every few years. The good thing - we are forming networks around the world that would be impossible without these machines.
On that note I will leave you. I do sincerely look forward to some dialogue on this blog.
Lindy Barnes, currently in AZ
- ChelsBay said...
I wanted to recognize your concerns about consuming our way to sustainability. I think that's a valid concern -- and it's definitely UNDER-represented on Treehugger, whose posts lean heavy on the check-out-this-new-product genre. We at The Change discuss this a lot. The clients we're most excited about represent alternative models where the core value proposition is about supporting and contributing as opposed to acquiring and consuming.
We just started working with a company that brokers between organic NC farms and stores and restaurants so that a local, small-scale foods can enter the marketplace (and people can exit the 1500-mile diet mindset!). And we're also working with a similar start-up that will do the same thing for local meat farms. As well, we've been working with Self-Help, a credit union that works to create opportunity for minorities, urban populations, and poorer rural populations that are under-served by banks. The brand identity work we do is even more important for such clients -- whose messages are more challenging precisely because they come from outside the mainstream. Adbusters daily forges new ground in its fight against consumerism -- yet does so using the same provocative design techniques pioneered in the graphic design field. In essence, we work to make people notice, understand, and be influenced by ideas -- whether those ideas are incarnated in the form of a purchase decision, a decision not to purchase, or a decision to plant your own damn garden and opt out of the consumption pool.
SO...if you ever have any work along those lines, feel free to give us a shout....


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Just before Christmas, I walked from Bondi Beach to Bronte with my mother and her partner. It was the first Christmas outside the UK for all three of us and it was an act of almost deliberate incongruity for us to walk along the beach, squint in the sunshine, swim in the surf, walk along the coastline with other tourists, stop to look at the flowers and the incredible natural rock formations, envy the beachfront houses, marvel at the blue skies, and finish up with fish and chips from Fishy Bite in Bronte - an unpromising outlet, and a longish wait, for really only moderately good fast food. Still, it was a beautiful day, and food always tastes better in the fresh air.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Bondi to Bronte
Posted by LottieP at 4:43 PM
2 comments:
- AnonymousDecember 30, 2010 at 3:56 PM
Thanks for these lovely photos. I hope you're still around next November when that stretch of coastline becomes the showcase for Sculpture by the Sea. The walk then becomes an even more spectacular treat.ReplyDelete
Thank you! I just missed out on Sculptures by the Sea this year and will definitely be going next time around.ReplyDelete
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When I saw the Scarpa Maestrale RS at last winters OR show I was intrigued. I loved touring in the original orange Maestrale, but always wanted a bit more behind the boot for the skis I use (95-118mm underfoot). I was able to obtain a pair of these prized boots in November, but had to wait until December to get the boots out into the field. So far I have used the Maestrales on many short tours, a few long tours and for eight days at the resort. Overall the new Maestrale RS is a great step forward in the high performance AT world.
The absolute best feature of all Scarpas is that they come with real Intuition liners. The new RS Maestrale comes with the new Intuition Pro Flex RS liners. This liner has more padding than the older version and the tongue is stiff enough on the outside so you do not get shin bang. As always remember to get your liners molded by a professional (or be really patient at home) and have the boots shell sized before you purchase. The next feature you notice is the weight. The RS is only 40 grams heavier (7lbs 4oz per pair, actual weight on a scale in size 27 vs 7lbs 2oz) than the original Maestrale and comes in at a 120 flex instead of a 100. This difference in stiffness is marked and really appreciated. Here's a video of the RS in action.
So what terrain is this boot set up for? It has become my go to boot for short and long tours as it meets all my demands for a lightweight, stiff boot with great range of motion (Scarpa claims 37 degrees of motion). I can't say if there really is 37 degrees of motion, but the boot range is greater than my body's range of motion. I have been riding skis that are 105mm and 118mm underfoot and the boots drive the skis with ease. I have skied crud, powder, and groomed and these boots tackled all snow types. I would not recommend this boot if you exclusively ski the area, but they are fine if you are occasionally visiting them. Overall these are awesome.
AMGA Certified Rock Guide
CMS Senior Guide
Colorado Mountain School
Colorado Mountain School
Yes, I know it's a little late, but I was waiting for more snow before reviewing these boots. Finally, after receiving said snow, I decided to take them out for a spin during our Christmas storm and report back.
The Scarpa Maestrale RS is the bootmaker's latest edition to the do-it-all lightweight charger category. It benefits from a low profile shell with tech compatibility, an Intuition brand moldable liner, and a tour mode that promotes your natural stride.
Out of the box, I was immediately impressed by the weight of these boots and the flashy shell design. I was moderately impressed by the color scheme. Then they sat for a few weeks while we rode our mountain bikes into December.
After finally logging a few days in them, I must say that I'm impressed. Their light weight design, coupled with the cuff's range of motion in walk mode promotes comfort while touring. Lock them down, and they provide a reliable, progressive flex that can push the biggest of boards. Perfect for long ski tours through rugged and diverse terrain. Here's a quick video of CMS guides testing out their new RS setups.
The hardware appears durable and easily repairable. One minor point of criticism is that Scarpa consistently chooses to omit the buckle "catches" that keep things tight while climbing with the boot loosened. Easily retrofittable, but this would be a welcome addition.
I'm curious to see how I adjust to the shell's tongue opening. It reminds me of the door on an expensive Italian sports car. Initially, it takes some effort to open up the cuff, as well as remove the liner. However, I believe that this design improves the forward flex of the boot, so I'm open to it.
If you're an aggressive skier, looking for an energy efficient, high performance boot, this could be your winner. It would also help if you have low volume feet. Head over to your local boot fitter and give them a try.
IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide
CMS Senior Guide
Colorado Mountain School
Colorado Mountain School


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The English-language title of this curious French drama is The Night is My Kingdom. Considered one of the best offerings from the highly variable director Georges Lacombe, the film stars Jean Gabin as Raymond, whose career as a railroad engineer is cut short when he is blinded in an accident. Unable to resign himself to his sightlessness, Raymond prefers to sit at home feeling sorry for himself. After much cajoling by friends and family, he enrolls in a school for the blind, where with the help of sensitive instructor Louise (Simone Valere) he comes out of his shell and starts life anew. La Nuit est Mon Royaume was released around the same time as a similarly-themed American film, Bright Victory.
Add this movie to your queue to receive more information about
Night Is My Kingdom and we will let you know when it becomes available.


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"Tara took a very simple topic and layered insight and hilarity into the discussion while making the issues we face very understandable. She is the neighbor I want at the coffee table when I'm faced with my parenting issues!" Kay Bransford, Creator of MemoryBanc
"What a great conversation with Tara Kennedy-Kline! I've been a listener of her show for quite some time, really enjoying her authenticity and wit as both a mom and a business owner. I was thrilled for the opportunity to talk with her about Frienedy as the next generation of social media and the importance of pro-active parenting when it comes to children and social media. I'm spreading the word to the parents in my own social network about Parent Nation's podcast- we all need that dose of something we can relate to that reassures us we are doing a good job and offers new perspectives and expert guests to help us through the challenges of raising children at every age in this digital era!" Janel Patterson, CEO and Co-founder of Frienedy.com


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QX5 USB microscope
From LinuxTVWiki
The QX5 USB microscope is a computer only microscope with magnification power of 10x, 60x and 200x. The QX5 is sold by Intel Play. Intel Play claims that the QX5 is not supported under GNU/Linux but the cpia2 kernel module supports it well. In order to use the QX5 with a 2.6.x Linux kernel, it is required to get the latest version of cpia2 and qx5view from the cpia2 CVS.
To build and load cpia2, you only have to do
- make install
- modprobe cpia2
You will then be able to start qx5view which should detect your microscope.


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I teach two classes, so with only two preps, the template is set up for my schedule. Also, we are on a 7 period schedule, not a block. It shouldn't be hard to adapt this to a block schedule.
It was important to me to see a whole week at a time, so I designed my template in Landscape rather than portrait.
There are 6 squares a week, so the final square is for things I need to remember, methods that worked, data, or even a to-do list.
Since Tiny Town High has an in-house printing company, I had them print my lesson plan book. (I know there are companies that will do it for you.) The companies allow you to design your own cover, add calendar pages, monthly reminders, etc. I love our in-house company. She consulted me on weight of paper, binding, and cover arrangement. (The binding below is temporary. We needed a larger size, which had to be ordered, and this one will be replaced the first week of school.)
My Essential Standards are printed on the back of my Cover.
I know it won't take long for me to figure out a few changes that I need to make for next year. I'll let you know how it goes with a sticky note lesson plan book. Stay tuned.


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The Lyric Chamber Music Society of New York The Lyric Chamber Music Society of New York
Here's a sample of our volunteer opportunities:VIEW AS
Mission Statement
It is the Lyric Chamber Music Society of New York's mission to provide a forum to today's finest performers to explore and expand the repertoire of chamber music in the intimate setting for which it was written. We discover, nurture and introduce today's exceptional young virtuosos to a wide audience. We train and educate tomorrow's performers, creative thinkers and music lovers with our education programs centered around student created art in music, drama, and creative writing. Through the arts we teach basic and advanced skills of learning and creative problem solving needed to succeed in a modern global society.
The Lyric produces an acclaimed chamber music concert series in New York and has a number of educational initiatives for children. It takes its musicians into New York City schools for master classes, coaching, and concerts as part of its Lyric in the Schools Outreach program, and its free Classical Carousel Concerts at the West Side YMCA provide a wonderful introduction to classical music for children.
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- View All
- Vintage Kitchen
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The very best in vintage 1940's, 50's, 60's & 70's china, glass, home and tableware.
We acquire genuine retro pieces that can be used every day in your kitchen, lounge and dining room at home or in your vintage camper or caravan!
perfect gift
Notes, Dimensions, Condition
Marked: Chris Aston Elkesley Notts / Rosti Mepal Denmark
Dimensions: Vase 13cm tall, 10cm dia, Forks 28cm and Ladle 31cm
Condition: Excellent Vintage
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This is a gorgeous studio pottery vase decorated with abstract red berries makes for a wonderful kitchen utensil holder. We love it! Very desirable and the ideal gift. Vases like this were extremely popular in the 1970s when everyone was into self sufficiency and 'going back to nature'. You could use for flowers if you didn't fancy using it for storing kitchen utensils. Clearance price
Please read notes, dimensions & condition before buying.


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Gregory Blurton
Chief Finance Officer
Susan Malay
Executive Director, Financial Services
Financial Accounting and Property Records, Food and Nutrition Services, Payroll, Procurement Services
This department plans, coordinates, and supervises the preparation of the District's annual budget. The Budget Department then monitors the budget operations during the fiscal year and provides special analysis of budget and financial issues required by the Superintendent and staff. The Department also projects students enrollment, FTE, and assists in the allocation of staff resources.
Financial Accounting & Property Records
The Financial Accounting Department makes payments to vendors, manages cash investments, records revenue, reconciles bank statements, distributes payroll checks, acts as a fiscal agent for grants received by the District and prepares financial reports. The Property Inventory and Records Management section of the department is responsible for the records retention and the tangible personal property inventories of the District.
Food & Nutrition Services
The mission of the Food & Nutrition Services Department in The School District of Lee County is to provide nutritious meals that nourish children, enhancing their readiness to learn without the use of District funds intended for instruction but within State and Federal Guidelines.
Internal Audit
This department serves as an independent appraisal and monitoring function. The department furnishes analysis, appraisals, recommendations, counsel, and information concerning the activities reviewed. Audit results assist management in evaluating fiscal and operational performance.
To provide Payroll Services in an accurate and timely manner for all employees of The School District of Lee County.
Procurement Services
Procurement Services is dedicated to providing the highest quality goods and services at the best value through competitive pricing while protecting the integrity of District funds and adhering to policies and procedures


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|Major Gifts Officer
|The Salvation Army - USA Central Territory, Midland Division
|Columbia, MO
Columbia, MO area
Donor Relations Director (aka: Major Gifts Officer)
JOIN THE ARMY'S GROWING FUNDRAISING TEAM IN THE CENTRAL TERRITORY and become part of an exciting new major gifts program making a profound impact!
Today, nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through a range of social services: providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless, and opportunities for underprivileged children. Eighty-two cents of every dollar the Army spends is used to support these services in 5,000 communities nationwide. As a branch of the Christian church, founded by William Booth and his wife Catherine in 1865 to serve London's worst poverty-stricken streets, the ultimate goal of all programs is the spiritual regeneration of all people.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by love for God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
The Midland Division (based in St. Louis) is one of ten divisions in the Central USA Territory, one of the Salvation Army's four U.S. geographic service areas. The Midland Division serves communities in Missouri and Southern Illinois. The division operates 12 corps (program sites) with community and worship centers, seven (7) social service facilities, and 23 extension units. The regional annual operating budget is $24 million. Funding sources include government contracts, foundation and other grants, and donations from corporations, small businesses, individuals, churches, and civic organizations.
The Salvation Army Midland Division provides support throughout the community by offering permanent and transitional housing, emergency shelters, summer camp, disaster relief, emergency social services, substance abuse programs, and youth development programs. In 2015, The Midland Division provided over 453,000 meals to people, emergency social services to over 75,000 people, and over 178,000 nights of shelter to the homeless.
"The Salvation Army is by far the most effective organization in the U.S. No one even comes close to it with respect to the clarity of mission, ability to innovate, measurable results, dedication, and putting money to maximum use."
–The late Dr. Peter Drucker, renowned management expert
The Opportunity: Donor Relations Director (DRD), aka: Major Gifts Officer (MGO)
In response to a strategic cultural shift designed to invigorate philanthropy, The Salvation Army is investing in the expansion of its Major Gift program. As a result, The Army will be hiring several Donor Relations Directors (aka: Major Gifts Officers) across the Central Territory. The plan to invest in major gifts includes a 300%+ growth over the next five years.
The Salvation Army has made a commitment to invest in and amplify the Major Gifts program with a goal of securing additional (new or renewed) leadership gifts. The collective portfolios in the 10 Divisions are comprised of more than 800,000 active donors, but less than 5% are giving at a Major Gift level. Leadership sees this as an enormous opportunity to grow philanthropy, both in volume and gift level. The Central Territory desires to provide guidance to each of its Divisions in identifying, retaining and cultivating these donors to minimize attrition and maximize giving.
The Donor Relations Director/Major Gifts Officer (DRD/MGO) will play a key role in the success of the Midland Division fund development efforts, specifically leading the major gift strategies in the Columbia, MO area. The newly minted DRD/MGO role will be a key role in the strategic focus on major gifts. Over the next five years, the Central Territory anticipates raising over $200M in major gifts. Each DRD/MGO's role in this goal will be to reach a caseload value of at least $1M per year. The Army's commitment to growing its major giving programs is reflected in plans to steward current donors to make greater investments in the Army, reach out to donors in a prescribed way, create individual cultivation plans, and establish two-way communication with donors.
The DRD/MGO is responsible for ongoing and proactive relationship management, strategic communications plans, gift cultivation, and solicitation activity with an assigned caseload of qualified and potential major donors. In this role, the DRD/MGO will identify, qualify, be assigned, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift donors and prospects, acting as the primary contact between the Army and the assigned caseload. The emphasis will be on securing gifts of $5,000 and much higher in their respective portfolio. Goals will be determined based on caseload structure and location. The projected average goal for the territory in Year 1 for the DRD/MGO position is $396,000, with a projected average goal of $1 million by Year 5.
Primary Performance Objectives
- Establishes, manages and fulfills a caseload communications plan, including individual fundraising goals and personalized strategies, to effectively steward, educate, cultivate and solicit gifts from major donors each fiscal year, with an emphasis on gifts of $5000 and higher.
- Works with prospect research manager at THQ and local staff who are trained to do research to develop donor profiles to inform "moves management" strategies and planning conversations.
- Meets regularly with supervisory and territorial major gifts management (by phone) to discuss and refine caseload plans and donor strategies, track progress, receive coaching, and keep open lines of communication.
- Works in close conjunction with other fund development officers, pursuing and contributing to harmonious collaboration between direct marketing, social media, foundation, corporation, and planned giving staff for optimal integrated strategies in regard to major donor communications as well as overall department initiatives.
- Supports and contributes to, as requested, overall territorial policies, business practices and strategies to continually increase major gifts revenue and program growth.
Leadership and Fundraising Management
- Leads in one-to-one solicitation, gift acknowledgement and stewardship communication, traveling as necessary, establishing and maintaining excellent donor relations, providing written proposals to major gift prospects as needed, and including Army and/or volunteer leadership as appropriate.
- Works in collaboration with program, finance, development, graphic design / communications, and administrative support staff to develop a portfolio of giving opportunities (cases for support) that documents funding needs in terms of real program costs, how dollars impact people, outcomes that are and could be achieved, shortfalls, and exciting mission advancement opportunities. Presents these opportunities to donors to effectively match donor interests with Army service delivery advancement needs.
- Keeps management apprised of all significant interactions, inputting contact reports to the donor database system as required, sharing a continually updated itinerary, fulfilling all monthly and other reporting requirements, and consulting with leadership when needed to understand organizational priorities, develop strategies that benefit both donor and the Army, and troubleshoot challenging situations.
- Stays driven toward goals and focused on caseload, but makes effective use of volunteerism opportunities, events and other initiatives to engage with assigned donors, bring them closer to the Army, and deepen their awareness of the impact of the Army's work, especially in areas of interest to them. Participates in such opportunities alongside caseload constituents. Works with other staff and leadership (including leadership volunteers) to develop new major donor / prospect cultivation events (private receptions, dinners in homes, seminars, etc.) targeted toward those with high philanthropic capacity.
Donor and Volunteer Relations
- Manages a caseload of 150 assigned and qualified major donors, and maintains and seeks to engage with a small additional prospective donor "watch list" as assigned, following the prescribed communications plan that is specific to each donor and prospect and working, as appropriate, with donor leadership volunteers to secure visits with those in their peer networks who are assigned.
- Works in close collaboration with local officers, program, finance and fundraising staff to present local Army resource development needs that correspond to where donors and prospects reside, while always being responsive to each donor's interests (even if elsewhere) and attentive to fiduciary responsibilities (donor intent with gifts).
- Makes it a priority to take donors on site visits to tour Army programs and facilitate face-to-face briefings of donors by Army leaders.
- Manages all office systems related to DRD/MGO duties, including maintaining updated donor files, tracking spreadsheets, correspondence and gift acknowledgments in keeping with department policies and procedures. Documents all donor interactions through system contact reports and according to established business practices. Carries out any office and computer-related tasks important to fulfilling the goals of the position.
- Ensures excellent customer service is provided to donors through accessibility to staff and leadership (as granted), timely responsiveness, quality in all interactions and personalized communications.
- Works diligently to meet agreed upon monthly and annual activity and income production goals, and is purposeful about every visit, communication, and desired outcome for each "touch."
- Participates in recommended professional trainings as budget allows, conference calls with other major gifts staff, conference kindred sessions and other professional development opportunities.
The Qualified Candidate
The Salvation Army seeks compassionate, dynamic and entrepreneurial fundraising professionals with a minimum of five years of individual giving/major gifts experience in a highly productive and progressive development and communications program within the nonprofit sector. Preference is given to those who have served in a faith-based organization, and specific to this search for the Donor Relations Director/Major Gifts Officer (DRD/MGO) in the Midland Division, possess a strong working knowledge of the Columbia, MO area philanthropic communities. It is imperative that the person who assumes this important role fully embrace, support and reflect well on The Salvation Army's mission and values through one's professional responsibilities and behavior at all times. The DRD/MGO will be creative, energetic and determined, with a talent for identifying and developing opportunities for donors and The Salvation Army to come together.
Specific Requirements Include:
- Passion for The Salvation Army's mission coupled with a strong commitment to know and understand the Army's history, mission and structure, as well as its services, policies and procedures.
- Bachelor's Degree; advanced degree and/or CFRE credential preferred.
- Minimum of five years of experience in a nonprofit fundraising role, with a proven track record of major gifts success and a strong working knowledge of strategy development and moves management systems in the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship processes.
- Highly effective interpersonal, conversational and presentational skills, demonstrating an emotional intelligence and situational awareness in tandem with excellent writing abilities and strong case development and sales pitch skills.
- Demonstrated expertise in developing and maintaining positive relationships with diverse individuals, including executives, high-level volunteers, wealthy donors, and internal stakeholders and leadership.
- Prowess in problem-solving, strategic and creative thinking, and taking initiative with consistent and good follow-through.
- Great comfort level with direct donor interaction is a must, including discussions of personal and family finances and asking for major financial commitments.
- Team player, able to check ego at the door, with a capacity to collaborate effectively with officers, staff and volunteers for successful achievement of position and department goals.
- Communications and management style that exhibits the principles and culture of the Army, as well as fosters team relationships and effectively communicates information.
- Willingness and ability to travel on a regular basis. Valid Driver's License required. Area residence is important.
- Ability to work remotely – on the road, from home and/or at various Army locations. It is anticipated that 80% of the donors are local to a position or within a 50-mile radius, but some travel related to donor management and/or organizational training is required.
- Experience in working independently in a fast-paced environment without extensive administrative support, and exceptional organizational abilities with fluency in managing multiple projects and competing priorities with professionalism and grace.
- Drive to make a difference, goal-oriented with a proven ability to achieve or exceed goals and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, hands-on experience with donor management software, and savvy in the maintenance of current contact and activity tracking reports, with adherence to the Army's database protocols.
This position offers a competitive benefits package. The finalist for this role will be required to submit to a full background and reference check.
The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer and it is the policy of the Salvation Army to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetic information or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable law. As a religious organization, the Salvation Army reserves the right to make employment decisions based on its religious and moral principles.
To Apply
Candidates may apply by clicking the APPLY NOW button below. To assure confidential tracking of all applicants, no applications will be accepted via email. ALL INQUIRIES WILL BE HELD IN STRICT CONFIDENCE.
This search is being managed by Sue Bultman, Consultant of Kistner Eddy Executive Services (KEES), in counsel with Heather Eddy, President and CEO. Questions may be addressed to firstname.lastname@example.com.
KEES is a retained search firm that builds transformative teams and leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. For more information, visit www.kees2success.com.
More about the Army's Midland Division
The Midland Division, under the leadership of Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Dan Jennings, employs almost 1000 people. The division currently has 198 donors who are members of the William Booth Society ($5,000+), and 1,460 donors who give at the $1,000-$4,999 level.
The Midland Division has recently undertaken a five-phase, $60 million development project in St. Louis known as the Midtown project. The project includes a $9 million, three story veteran residence with 48 apartments, as well as a $12 million restoration of the former Harbor Light Center to the now 3010 Apartments that provide affordable housing and a chance at a successful life. Other phases of the project include the Midtown Service and Treatment Center, a state of the art medical and substance abuse treatment facility, and a Red Shield Center that will serve as a community hub, offering fitness, after school, counseling programs and other activities. The final phase of the project will include a mixed-use commercial and residential development.
The Salvation Army – Central USA Territory
Comprised of 10 Divisions and serving communities in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, Territorial Headquarters (THQ) is situated in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, 35 miles west of Chicago. Under the leadership of Territorial Commander, Commissioner Paul Seiler, J. Douglas McDaniel is the Territorial Executive Director of Development and Robert Dalton is the Territorial Director of Major Giving Programs.


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Hosting gaming infrastructure is becoming a big business. That was clear at the Game Developers Conference at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, where Terremark Worldwide (TMRK) was on hand with a booth customized for the gaming crowd that showcased its NAP of the Americas in Miami. Photo by Cory Doctorow.
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|Tom with the poster!
I conspired with Alan — Foreign News Editor and his boss — for the idea. Tom used to live in Zimbabwe and South Africa, so Alan thought a safari picture would be cool. I then trawled the Interwebz and eventually found a nice black and white picture of Theodore Roosevelt with a massive dead elephant! Perfect! And I photoshopped Tom's face in.
The resolution was good enough for it to be enlarged to A1 size. Then I asked the production guys downstairs for a little favour and they printed it out on their large-scale printer, as well as an A3 card for everyone to sign. My boss came up with the caption on the card. Tom really dislikes Robert Mugabe.
The hardest part was organising this whole thing without the person sitting next to you finding out! I'm quite crappy at keeping things like this super-top-secret. But he didn't have a clue. When they did the farewell speeches and presentations and we gave him the gifts, he totally loved them. He's getting the poster framed.
Anyway, this whole project was really, really fun… Since I end up doing this sort of thing a lot, the next post will be a tutorial on how to photoshop one person's face onto another person's body. It's not really that hard, but I have a few tips and tricks that make it look more realistic and I feel like sharing. It's going to take a little while to put it together, but it'll be pretty good… So stay tuned!
|The card
|GROUP SHOT! Top row: Me, Neale, Ronan, Eddie, Alan. Bottom row: Singam, Tom


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Without this information, you risk paying thousands of dollars more than you should!
We will also cover the upcoming mortgage rule changes that came in effect as of January 1, 2018
- Find out what the banks are not telling you
- Why a "pre-approval" does NOT guarantee you a mortgage
- How lenders can cancel your mortgage the day before funding (it's happened!)
- The most important factors in your mortgage application, and their impact on how much you pay (interest rate and fees)
- Your PHONE number, in case we need to notify you of changes
- Your HOME address, for the bonus home value report (to ensure no typos)
Coffee, tea, water and munchies will be served.
For current homeowners and first-time buyers. Save yourself from common mistakes home buyers and homeowners who refinance make when getting a mortgage. This information will make a big difference for your financial future.
Use this valuable information to keep your hard-earned money in your pocket, instead of mortgage lenders.
All current homeowners who attend this presentation receive a report on their home's current estimated value and a list of recent area sales, free of charge! (Value: $99)
Reserve your seat, as space is limited.


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Multidrug Resistance
Multidrug Resistance (MDR) refers to mechanisms by which many cancers develop resistance to chemotherapy drugs and is a major factor in the failure of many forms of chemotherapy. It affects patients with a variety of blood cancers and solid tumors, including breast, ovarian, lung, and lower gastrointestinal tract cancers. Tumors usually consist of mixed populations of malignant cells, some of which are drug-sensitive while others are drug-resistant. Chemotherapy kills drug-sensitive cells, but leaves behind a higher proportion of drug-resistant cells. As the tumor begins to grow again, chemotherapy may fail because the remaining tumor cells are now able to recognize the chemotherapy and reject it at the cellular level, thus rendering it resistant to the therapy.
This resistance to therapy is often the result of molecular "pumps" in tumor-cell membranes that actively expel chemotherapy drugs from the interior. This allows tumor cells to avoid the intended toxic effects of the drug.
As MDR begins to counteract chemotherapy drugs, it can require higher and higher doses to kill tumor cells, yet the unwanted side effects of the drugs, like cardiotoxicity, ultimately prevent such increases in dosing.
Two kinds of pumps commonly responsible for multidrug resistance in cancer are P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and the so-called multidrug resistance–associated protein (MRP). Because of their role in MDR, they have been the targets of several anticancer efforts. Unfortunately, efforts to block the activity of these pumps have resulted in serious side effects because they also play an important role in normal cell function.
Our most advanced therapy, Annamycin, represents a much-needed breakthrough in the battle against multidrug resistance. Its unique design prevents it from being recognized by MDR pumps, allowing Annamycin to avoid the multidrug resistance mechanisms that often defeat current therapies.


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Ozzie's Blog
Changing the dressing
It is funny how in many cultures variations of the same aphorism exists: "you can dress up a goat but it is still a goat".
It has to do with the insanity of repeating the same things we do in our daily lives expecting something different will happen. Guys keep going out to the same venues for a drink expecting something different will happen. They expect they will get laid somehow just by showing up and getting drunk. Still sex with beautiful women eludes them. Your average Joe goes to the club every weekend with his friends expecting to get a girl, gets drunk and goes home alone. It is the definition of insanity, doing always the same expecting something different will happen. It is systemic. It means it is predictable, repetitive and resistant to change. The system is flawed. The more you try to make this flawed system work for you the more frustrated you become. The harder you try solutions that do not work the more stuck you become.
You must change the system
If you expect a different result you must start making systemic changes. It is funny how easy results change when you target the system. Results can change in just one night. For example, if instead of hanging by the bar with friends you hit the dance floor and approach 5 different women within the first 20 minutes of being in the club you might get some different results. At the beginning of the night, since people just arrived in the venue, they are more open for conversation and might engage you for longer periods of time. Some of those first interactions might turn into a 30 to 45 minute marathon of you talking to a hot girl. It might change your night even if you don't have sex with her. It may give you the boost in confidence you need to keep approaching other women for the rest of the night.
A systemic change brings about this kind of results. You are altering your usual system. It happens at all levels of game in the dating world. Even an experience guy needs systemic changes. If he doesn't he may get stuck. For example, it is customary for advanced guys who have already had success in the game to stop challenging themselves in the field. They end up approaching only those groups of girls where they feel they might have a chance to get laid. However, since getting laid in the game is the result of risk taking, they stop getting laid. No risk, no reward. They also need to make systemic changes otherwise they would continue to be stuck in their game. Exposing yourself to rejection on an ongoing basis can do the trick.
"on going" is the key word
If you expose yourself to rejection on an ongoing basis you may change the entire system. In fact you throw it out of whack. In fact, Tim (RSD instructor deluxe) has pointed out how you should create "chaos" around you. He wrote an article about it. What he meant there was to try and make systemic changes in your behaviour. Put your old system through systemic changes. If you do things that scare you, you might have a chance. However, if you do scary things on an "ongoing" basis, the old system can't survive. You will see different results on an "ongoing" basis too.
If you expect transformation to happen you must keep churning the cream for butter. If you want a better metaphor for it, you might want to think about trying to get ketchup out of the bottle by hitting it with your hand at the bottom. At first no ketchup comes out but if you keep at it, and don't dismay, you may end up with all the ketchup you need. I think I explained this better in this particular video.
Makes sense?
Every weekend I step in the dance floor of a crowded club and look around and ask my students, "Which group here looks impossible to approach?" They point out two girls jumping up and down like crazy, or a couple making out, or one hot girl surround by a herd of guys. After that I approach such group. This is my very first approach of the night, but I don't care. I do it anyway. I want to challenge myself as soon as step into the club. That keeps my system out of whack. No room for complacency or comfort zone bullshit. Step into the unknown. This process is "ongoing". I do it through out the night. I teach my students to make the same systemic changes throughout a three day program.
Why bootcamps are successful
When you come to bootcamp, you are thrown out of your normal system. You are forced to make systemic changes. The old system where you were stuck is no longer valid. A program for dating women puts you on the fast track to make those system changes. Not only that it teaches you to become your own coach. You can't help but change results if you apply yourself to the systemic changes offered on program. It works like an intervention of sorts. It aims to change old systemic patterns of behaviour.
Systemic changes and time
As a result of changing the system you would expect different results. However, such results might come right away for some and for others it would take longer. It is hard to tell how long it will take for the systemic changes to take effect and translate into new results. Sometimes when students get anxious about results I just say, "Keep doing what you are doing". Sometimes it is a matter of time. Other times you must pay attention to what you are doing because you might be repeating the old system by disguising it with new behaviours. For example, you might go to a club and do a couple of approaches per night. Two approaches compared to none is an improvement but it fails to change the system dramatically. You will still get the same results because no major overhaul of the old system has taken place. The word is "ongoing" as in throughout the night.
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Posted March 21st, 2011 at 1:01 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: 12/27/2010 | Posts: 152
Read the Alchemist 2 days ago. Watching that video was like I was in a book club. :)
Posted March 21st, 2011 at 5:09 PM
Trusted Member
Join Date: 07/23/2008 | Posts: 1261
Fear is a key characteristic of your game...
Let's play the devil's advocate here...
Maybe your fear of someone stealing your gf expresses threw stealing other guys gfs...:-))
A cool guy doesn't need this validation...
Let's play the devil's advocate here...
Maybe your fear of someone stealing your gf expresses threw stealing other guys gfs...:-))
A cool guy doesn't need this validation...
Posted April 19th, 2011 at 8:38 AM
Junior Member
Join Date: 04/10/2011 | Posts: 12
You write too well, and I learned a lot from the inside, I like [url=http://www.myefox.com/ipad-2-upgrade-huawei-smakit-s7-ideos-7-inch-gps-android-2-2-3g-wifi-8gb-tablet-pc-with-mobile-phone-function-cems7-p-152330 ]Huawei S7 [/url]from myefox.


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Friday, December 28, 2012
Almost 2013 Quilled Gold Snowflake Star Ornament
12 comments:
I think it looks perfect, xxxxReplyDelete
so beautifully! color wonderful -tender cream with gold!!!ReplyDelete
Its beautiful ! My snowflakes are never symmetrial yours has very nice shape.ReplyDelete
It's lovely Eileen! Merry Christmas and happy new year.ReplyDelete
It's FANTASTIC as always my dearest blog friend^_^ Love gold and love this elegant snowflake^_^ReplyDelete
Big hug,
Eileen - another stunning snowflake - I love how solid it looks. - you will have to do us a tutorial. TFS and have a great weekend.ReplyDelete
So pretty and I love the gold paper, Eileen. Happy New Year!ReplyDelete
beautiful in gold !!!!ReplyDelete
Wow, this is beautiful! Love the shape you gave it and the color is fabulous! Thank you for sharing this with us at TTCRD. Hope to see you again next week! :^)ReplyDelete
Hugs, Penny
wow what a stunning creation,so pretty and elegant .i love itReplyDelete
thanks for joining us at MIM and good luck
tracey x
Lovely ornament. I love this technique, but I'm just a beginner.ReplyDelete
I saw you at MIM. My projects are 78 and 218 if you decide to stop by.
Happy New Year. Hugs from Slovenia. Keti
WOW - this is gorgeous!! I love all the layers and am completely mesmerized by this ornament. It actually looks like paper thin wood. Beautiful! Thanks so much for joining us at Tuesday Alchemy!ReplyDelete


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Page Contents
What are Nasal polyps?
Generally defined, nasal polyps are the smooth, semi-transparent, nontender, benign polypoidal masses that occur in the lining of the nasal mucosa or anywhere in the paranasal sinuses. These growths arise usually following diseases in the nasal cavity.
A nasal polyp can be sorted into antrochoanal and ethmoidal types. Less frequent are the anthrochoanal polyps that occur singly and unilaterally in the maxillary sinuses. The latter occur bilaterally in several numbers in the ethmoidal sinuses.
Signs and Symptoms
- One or numerous, clustered, grape-like polyps
- Yellow brown to pink in color
- Soft with a jelly-like consistency
- Difficulty breathing
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Perennial nasal congestion
- Constant dripping
- Diminished or absence sense of smell
- Poor sense of taste
- Dull headache
- Massive polyps cause airway obstruction and may alter facial figure
- Mouth breathing
- Eye itching
Nasal Polyp Pictures
The involved processes that result to the formation of polyps remain unclear. Anyone can have it, but usually, children (antrochoanal type) and individuals aged 40 years old and up (ethmoidal type) are the most commonly affected. Patients with asthma, recurrent rhinosinusitis, chromium exposure, aspirin intolerance and cystic fibrosis are more susceptible.
Data support the assumption that people with nasal polyposis have different immune system responses and distinctive chemical markers than others. The presence of a chronic inflammation in the nasal cavity may cause fluid to accumulate in that area as blood vessels become more permeable. Eventually, by virtue of gravity, the fluid-filled cells are dragged down resulting to exvagination of the typical nasal mucosa, thus, the formation of these polypoidal masses.
Treatment is directed with the intention of reducing the size and completely eliminating nasal polyposis.
- The first approach is pharmacologic intervention which includes the use of oral and topical nasal corticosteroids (prednisone). This however, is avoided to be injected directly into the blood vessels as doing so may result to unilateral vision loss.
- Other drugs which offer benefit are antihistamines and antibiotics.
- Activity restriction is not required.
- Nasal saline irrigation with sinus rinses (warm salt water) depresses the formation of polyps
- Steroidal sprays (Momentasone furoate)
If maximum medical therapy falls short in reducing the size of multiple benign nasal polyps, surgical intervention such as polypectomy and functional endoscopic sinus surgery comes in. These options are more likely to be the only alternative for those with cystic fibrosis in which steroid is unpromising.
- For isolated polyps in small number, a simple polypectomy is done. In this procedure, a miniature mechanical suction apparatus called as microdebrider is used to incise and remove the soft tissue.
- A better procedure which not only gets rid of polyps but also facilitates recurrence reduction by opening the clefts where they most frequently occur is functional endoscopic sinus surgery. This is obviously a more massive process with much more considerable impending risks.
- After the operation, the doctor recommends certain activity limitations that include restricting the patient from blowing the nose so as not to increase intranasal pressure and to create additional trauma to already narrowed bony structures.


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Scented Toys - Items tagged as "Bunny"
SCENTED TOYS! Yippee! At EverythingSmells we have the best smelling toys for kids and the kid in you. Scented stuffed animals and backpack clips, scented goo and squishies, Pikmi Pops, Num Noms. Think Christmas, Birthday, Easter, Valentine's Day & Student Rewards.
View all * Scented SQUISHIES! * activity book ALL of our Scented Stickers Apple Avengers back to school backpack backpack clip Banana bear Birthday Gifts blue raspberry Blue Raspberry Scent Blueberry Bubble Gum bunny butter Cakes/Cookies Candy Corn cat cherries Cherry Chocolate Christmas Christmas & Holiday Gift Ideas christmas gift Cinnamon cinnamon bun cinnamon roll Cola Cotton Candy creamsicle Cupcake Disney dog Donut donuts drink Easter basket EASTER Gifts! elephant Frozen Gingerbread graham cracker Grape grape jelly gumball Gummy Bear halloween Halloween Gifts Ice Cream Incredible Hulk kawaii kitten Kiwi Lemon llama Macaroon Marshmallow Marvel mermaid milo and stitch monkey narwhal NEW Products Num Noms nut on the go Orange Orange Cream Peach peaches peachy Peanut Butter penguin Pineapple playdoh playdough Popcorn popsicle poptart puppy rabbit rainbow Raspberry S'mores SALE! sandwich Scentco scented plush Scented Stocking Stuffers Scented Toys sensory sloth slow rise slurpie slushie soda Sour Apple spiderman squish squishie Squishy Strawberry stuffed animal top seller Toy Story travel book Tsum Tsum unicorn Valentine's Day Gifts Valentines Day Gifts! Vanilla Variety Pack Scented Stickers Watermelon whiffer Whiffer Stickers


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A roomy 20' Bowrider that delivers abundant style and performance with outboard power up to 200HP. Enjoy deluxe features including bucket seats, luxurious interior vinyl's, plentiful storage and an easy towing Glastron custom matched trailer. With options to customize until your heart's content, the GT200 was bred for a fun-filled summer.
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Compelling niche history about a black soldier who murdered his lieutenant then fled into the Burmese jungle during World War II.
Journalist and first-time author Koerner has unearthed a minor treasure in the criminal records of Herman Perry, a meat cutter drafted in 1943. Since military leaders considered African-Americans unfit for combat, Perry was shipped to India in 1944 to join 15,000 mostly black laborers building the Ledo Road, an immense project extending nearly 500 miles through mountainous jungles to China. Working conditions were nightmarish. The project had low priority, so supplies and food were inadequate, and black troops received the worst. Amenities, R&R facilities and even brothels were off limits. Morale under white officers was terrible. Miserable and depressed, Perry had already served one stockade sentence and found himself threatened with another when, on March 5, 1944, he lost control, murdered an overbearing white officer and fled. Believing that blacks were sexually ravenous, his pursuers focused the subsequent manhunt on brothels in distant Calcutta. Meanwhile, Perry stumbled through the jungle into a village of the Nagas, a primitive tribe of headhunters who occasionally traded with the soldiers. Won over by a few gifts and the supplies he stole from construction sites less than ten miles away, the tribe accepted him. Perry married the chief's 14-year-old daughter and settled in, but rumors of a Negro living in the jungle eventually filtered out, and a patrol arrested him. Shortly before his death sentence was confirmed, he escaped and spent two months frantically trying to reach his village before being captured and hung. The long description of his trial may offer more information than most readers want, but few will be unmoved by the stinging depiction of Perry struggling to live first in an oppressively racist society, then in an army whose leaders considered him subhuman.
Gripping and cringe-inducing.


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Nagaland Police Recruitment 2015 Notification in nagapol.gov.in to recruit 28 ASI, SI, ABSI, UBSI. 12th, Graduation Degree degree holder candidate can Apply Offline for 28 ASI, SI, ABSI, UBSI Sarkari Naukri vacancies in Nagaland Police on Full time basis in Nagaland. This Recruitment Alert published from Employment News, and indian Government Jobs Portal. Check Nagaland Police Government jobs Advertisement regarding detail of posts, reservation chart, qualifications, and other terms and conditions etc. are given below:-
Nagaland Police - Nagaland Police Recruitment 2015 by Employment News (nagapol.gov.in)
Hiring Organization - Nagaland Police
Employment Type - Full time
Job Category - Police/Defence Jobs
Post Name and Total No. of Vacancies - 28 posts
- SI - 06 posts
Experience Requirements - : Freshers jobs
Selection Procedure - Selection will be made strictly as per merit prepared on the basis of Written Exam, Interview.
Jobs in - Nagaland
Base salary and Grade Pay - Selected candidate will be paid remuneration based on pay band INR Rs. 5200-20200/- With 2400/2800.in accordance with the rule of Nagaland Police
Age Requirement - Candidate should be born between 31-07-1980 and not after 31-07-1997. Age relaxations will be applicable as per the policy/ instructions of the Government. check job advertisement for age criteria of individual posts.
Educational Qualification - All applicant applying for Nagaland Police vacancies must posses 12th, Graduation Degree or its equivalent Qualification from a recognized Board / University. find job notification below For post wise Qualification.
Application Fee -
- For All Candidates Application Fee is - 100/-
How To Apply - All Eligible and interested candidates have to apply in prescribed format which can be Download from nagapol.gov.in . After Filling The application form, candidate must send hard copy of application along with relevant testimonials (Mentioned In Detailed Advertisement) to the following Address before or on 31-07-2015
Important dates -Address -
- Last date for receiving of application form : 31-07-2015
To Director General of Police, PHQ,
Nagaland, Kohima.
Nagaland, Kohima.
Important Links - For free job alerts like @ Latest Government jobs opening 2015 facebook page for Job updates on your Timeline and also Subscribe for JobsOK Employment Newsletter - Email subscription.
Click on Nagaland Police Recruitment Notification to download detailed job advertisement Download
Click here to Download Application Form for Nagaland Police ASI, SI, ABSI, UBSI Jobs Opening Apply Now


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This week I am covering thesaurus skills with fourth and fifth grade.
I didn't have enough thesauri to use for each class, so I went online and found some at the Dollar Tree. They are very simple, but good enough for an introductory thesaurus lesson. I bought 16 copies, enough for students to partner up.
For practice, I am having students work in groups of 4-5 to look up a word and find a specific synonym for that word.
They will be given 10 words to look up and 10 synonyms to match to the correct words. You can get a copy of these searches here or by clicking on the picture above.
It's pretty simple and I designed it to be a quick activity because I wanted to have time to pass out the free books from First Book that I received. You can read all about those books here.
The kids were so excited to receive their books. I think I am their favorite Media Specialist, at least for now. =)
Do you do anything special to teach thesaurus skills?


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Bristol, VA/TN -- Back by popular demand! Bristol Ballet presents Unbroken Circle—Bristol's Music in Motion on March 13 at the Paramount Center for the Arts at 3:00pm. And, for the first time, Bristol Ballet will perform at Heritage Hall in Mountain City, TN on March 19 at 7:00pm. Unbroken Circle—Bristol's Music in Motion challenges the imagination through the lyrical poetry of our region's music and the ethereal beauty of classical dance. The imaginative combination of ballet with the music of our region, including several Bristol Sessions recordings, honors Bristol's music legacy with innovation and originality by marrying two forms of creative expression in an unexpected way.
Theme by Danetsoft and Danang Probo Sayekti inspired by Maksimer


text: Golden-brown puppy George had his own existential difficulties finding his voice in Feiffer's last offering (Bark, George!, 1999). This time, a boy named Bobby has an existential emergency of his own when he declares (repeatedly and loudly), "I'm not Bobby!" It's the old deny-thy-parent-and-refuse-thy-name ruse, not for reasons of a familial feud, but just to get away from a demanding mother's agenda. Bobby's mother is always yelling for him, shown in three-inch-tall letters hand-scrawled across the page in thick, black lines. She yells his name, issues vague threats, and enlists the help of other relatives to chase him, but Bobby is busy transforming himself (through his considerable imagination) into commanding animals, monsters, and vehicles, with a running first-person text at the bottom of each page. Bobby's powerful emotions fairly burst off the page in Feiffer's edgy watercolors, especially when he turns into a whirling wild thing of a monster. ("A monster comes all right. And it tears you to pieces.") Eventually, after a fanciful journey in his spaceship, Bobby gets hungry and transforms himself back into a lion with "a Bobby face," who returns home, where he expects to find dinner and the restoration of his TV privileges by his parents. ("Or I'll eat them.") Some adults will object to Bobby's emotional excesses, and others will object to the mother's screams and threats, but plenty of youngsters who are wild things at heart will eat this up. (Picture book. 3-6)


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Millions of people around the world perish each year as a result of preventable bacteria infections, so the 'Clean Clear' is designed with a digital microscope to help increase sanitization.
The innovative faucet concept incorporates a magnification system into the head of the design to show just how dirty hands are before and during the washing process. When bacteria has been banished down the drain, the 'Clean Clear' faucet will let the washer know that their duty is done.
Designed by Hui-Chuan Ma, Yan-Jang Cheng and Mu-Chern Fong, the 'Clean Clear' faucet appeals to a consumer preference for digital integration to help increase health and wellness. If further developed and implemented into public spaces, the 'Clean Clear' faucet could help to eliminate preventable deaths from occurring.
Germ-Magnifying Faucets
More Stats +/-
3D-Printed Faucets
Dog Drinking Fountains
Intuitive Water Dispensers
Hoop-Styled Faucets
Galactic Shower Heads
The 'Clean Clear' Faucet Packs a Digital Microscope into the Concept
- By: Michael HemsworthJan 29, 2016
References: ifworlddesignguide & tuvie
References: ifworlddesignguide & tuvie


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Amy Schumer and Boyfriend Ben Hanisch Dress as 'Stranger Things' Characters for Halloween
Schumer took on Dustin while Hanisch donned a pink dress as Eleven.
Amy Schumer and Ben Hanisch chose the perfect way to enjoy Halloween with Netflix's hit show Stranger Things as inspiration.
Days after her spoof of Beyonce's "Formation" became embroiled in controversy, the comedian-actress took a break on Saturday to post some photos of her and Hanisch doing their best impressions of show characters Dustin and Eleven.
Schumer managed to capture the essence of her character with the inclusion of Dustin's curly mane and baseball hat, and Hanisch gave his best take on Eleven's signature look, even down to her pink dress and bloody nose (which signifies her supernatural powers on the Netflix series).
Schumer captioned one photo, "Stranger Things #HappyHalloween from Eleven and Dustin!"
Other photos posted to Instagram captured the duo in action, riding bicycles around town and happily impersonating their respective characters.
Check out the photos below.