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"Jolie Blonde" is a traditional cajun waltz, often called "the cajun national anthem" because of the popularity it had in cajun culture. The song was then later popularized on a nationwide scale by a series of renditions and references in late '40s country songs. It has been the subject of occasional covers later in the 20th century by cajun and classic country revival bands.
The original cajun version is a brief address to a "pretty blonde" who had left the singer and moved back in with her family, and is also now in the arms of another man. The singer concludes that there are plenty of other pretty blonde women. The fiddle-based melody probably dates to before the 1900s. I found a version (titled "La Valse De Gueydan") that predates the 1929 recording of the Breaux family. (SEE FURTHER ON IN THIS POST)
The earliest recording of the song is believed to be a version by the Breaux family trio entitled "Ma Blonde Est Partie", recorded on April 18, 1929 in Atlanta. There is some mystery to its origin. While Amede Breaux is credited with writing the song, it was his sister Cleoma who actually wrote the lyrics and Amede sang the song.
Amadie, Ophy and Cleoma Breaux' version was released on the Columbia and the Okeh-label.
Listen here:
Dennis McGee claims the original song was written by Angelas Lejeune as "La Fille De La Veuve" (aka "La Valse De La Veuve") during WWI and Cleoma Breaux rewrote the lyrics, allegedly about Amede's first wife.
Angelas Lejeune and Ernest Fruge would eventually record this song on November 19, 1930 in New Orleans (Brunswick 558, Melotone M18052)
(c) Le Jeunne & Fruge (1930) (as "La Valse De La Veuve")
Listen here:
Angelas LeJeune was one of the most influential of the early Cajun accordion players. His repertoire passed down to his younger cousin Iry LeJeune, who made big hits with his reworkings of tunes by Angelas and Amd Ardoin in the late 1940s, early 1950s.
His "Valse de la Veuve" (aka "La Fille de la Veuve") has the same tune as Jolie Blonde /Jole Blon but with different lyrics.
(c) Guidry Brothers (1929) (as "Homme Abandonné")
On October 2, 1929, the Guidry Brothers would lay down their version of the melody, calling it "Homme Abandonné".
It was released on the B-side of Vocalion 15849.
Listen here:
But there's another song with the same melody, that definitely predates "Ma Blonde Est Partie" and all the others.
In January 1929, John Bertrand and Milton Pitre would travel to Chicago and record "La Valse de Gueydan" for Paramount Records (12748A), using the same melody.
Here's a picture of the B-side of that pretty rare release.
Listen here:
"La Valse de Gueydan" was also recorded in New Orleans on November 19, 1930 by Amade Ardoin and Dennis McGee.
(c) Magee & Ardoin (1930) (as "La Valse de Gueydan")
Released on Brunswick 513
Listen here:
With slightly differnt lyrics Leo Soileau also recorded a version of "La Valse Gueydan".
(c) Leo Soileau and his Three Aces (1935) (as "La Valse Gueydan [Jolie Fille]")
Recorded on January 18, 1935.
Released on the B-side of his famous "Hackberry Hop" (Bluebird B-2086 and B-2171)
Listen here:
In 1934 Alan Lomax traveled to Louisiana, recording artists including the Segura Brothers and their version of "La Fille De La Veuve".
Jolie Blonde ("La Fille de la veuve") - John and Alan Lomax in Louisiana, 1934
Listen here: www.lomax1934.com/uploads/7/9/4/5/7945221/jolie_blonde.mp3
The title "Jolie Blonde" was first given to the melody by the Hackberry Ramblers
Floyd Rainwater [gt], Lennis Sonnier [vcl/gt], Johnny Puderer [bass], Lunderin Darbone [fiddle]
Recorded October 17, 1936 in St. Charles Hotel, New Orleans, LA.
Released on Bluebird B-2003
Listen here:
And (on the same day) Miller's Merrymakers also used the title: "Te Ma Lessa Jolie Blonde", but with a slightly different melody.
Miller's Merrymakers (J.B. Fuselier [vcl/fiddle], Bethoven Miller [gt], Preston Manuel [gt])
Recorded October 17, 1936 in New Orleans, LA.
Released on Bluebird B-2006
Listen here:
The melody also appears in "La Valse de La Lafayette" and in "Jolie (Brunette)" by the Jolly Boys of Lafayette.
Both recorded on February 21, 1937 in Dallas, TX
Released on Decca 17029 ("La Valse de La Lafayette")
Listen here:
And released on Decca 17032 ("Jolie (Brunette)")
Listen here:
And also in "Nouveau Grand Gueydan" (New Gran Guadyan) by Happy Fats and his Rayne-Bo Ramblers.
Recorded September 10th 1937 in St. Charles Hotel New Orleans.
Released on Bluebird Records B-2024
Listen here:
(c) Harry Choates (1946) (as "Jole Blon (Pretty Blond)")
Harry Choates [vcl/fiddle], Esmond Pursley [gt], B.D.Williams [gt], Charles Stagle [banjo],James Foster [bass], William Slay [piano]. Producer: Bill Quinn)
Recorded March 1946 Quinn Recording Co., 3104 Telephone Road, Houston, TX -
Released July 1946 on Gold Star 1314.
When the same master was re-released on Modern Music # 511 end 1946, it hit the charts.
Listen here: http://www.rocky-52.net/son/son_c/choates_harry/choates_harry_joleblon.mp3
(c) Moon Mullican And The Showboys (1946) (as "New Pretty Blonde (New Jole Blon)")
Moon Mullican [vcl/piano], Mutt Collins [ld gt], Guy Cotton Thompson [fiddle], Acie Peveto [steel], Reggie Ward [bass], Richard Prine [drums], Ralph Lamb [fiddle]
Recorded October 1946 Cliff Herring Studio, 1705 W. 7th St., Ft. Worth, TX –
Released on King 578 (Nr 2 in the C&W charts)
Listen here:
(c) Red Foley and The Cumberland Valley Boys (1947) (as "New Jolie Blonde")
Zeb Turner [gt], Zeke Turner [gt], Smoky Lohman [steel], Louis Innis [bass], Dolph Hewitt [violin], Jimmy Bennett [accordion], Salty Holmes [harmonica], ? [trumpet])
Recorded January 8, 1947 Chicago, IL
Released on Decca 46034 (Nr 1 in the C&W charts)
Listen here:
(c) Johnny Tyler and Riders of Rio Grande (1947) (as "New Pretty Blonde (New Jole Blon)")
Johnny Tyler [vcl], George Chumura [gt], Richard Hamilton [gt], Judith Lee Cragin [gt], Robert Terry Fell [gt/harmonica], Leodie Jackson [steel], Carl Victor Bias [bass], Ralph Gleason [drums], Jesse Ashlock [fiddle], Norman Baker [fiddle], Robert Armstrong [piano]
Recorded January 9, 1947 RCA Victor Studio, 1016 North Sycamore St., Hollywood CA
Released on RCA-Victor 20-2171
Listen here:
In 1947 Roy Acuff recorded his own version of "Jole Blon",
It was this version that most likely inspired Bruce Springsteen and Gary US Bonds to record their version in 1980.
(c) Roy Acuff And His Smoky Mountain Boys (1947) (as "(Our Own) Jole Blon")
Roy Acuff [vcl], Lonnie Wilson [gt], Brother Oswald Kirby [dobro/vcl], Jess Easterday [mandolin], Welma Williams [bass], Tommy Magness [violin], Francis "Sonny Day"Tamvourin [accordion].
Recorded Jan 1947 CBS Studio (Radio Station KNX) 6121 Gower and Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CAReleased on Columbia 37287
Listen here:
(c) Johnny and Jack and the Tennessee Mountain Boys (1947) (as "Jole Blon")
Johnny Wright, Jack Anglin, Ray Atkins, Eddie Hill, Paul Buskirk, Dorris Paul Warren. Recorded March 25, 1947 New York City
Released on Apollo 142
Listen here:
Eventually, in 1951, Amede Breaux would form the band Acadian Aces and record the song again with the title "Jole Blonde" for J. D. "Jay" Miller's Feature Records (F-1023).
(c) Amidie Breaux And The Acadian Aces (1951) (as "Jole Blonde")
Listen here: http://npmusic.org/Amedee_Breaux_Jolie_Blonde.mp3
(c) Waylon Jennings (1959)
Buddy Holly on guitar and King Curtis on tenor sax
Recorded September 1958 in Clovis, New Mexico
Listen here:
(c) Jimmy Newman (1959) (as "Jolie Blon")
Recorded June 10, 1959 Bradley Film and Recording Studio, 804 16th Ave. South, Nashville, TN
Released on the album "This is Jimmy Newman" (MGM SE-3777)
Listen here:
Jimmy recorded the song again in 1963.
Released on the album "Folk Songs Of The Bayou Country" (Decca DL 4398)
and in 1974.
(c) Rod Bernard (1965) (as "My Jolie Blonde")
Listen here:
(c) Gary U.S. Bonds and Bruce Springsteen (1981) (as "Jole Blon")
Springsteen had originally recorded the song for his 1980 album, The River, but it was never released and he decided to re-record the song with Bonds for his 1981 album, Dedication.
The Bonds/Springsteen version was most likely modeled after the Roy Acuff version (SEE ABOVE)
Listen here;
Gary U.S. Bonds peforms "Jole Blon" with Bruce Springsteen at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey (September 21, 2012). "The Boss says, "I've seen this sign at 95 shows. It's a pain in my ass." So to the satisfaction of the fan who says she's been carry the sign "her whole life", Bruce "imported Gary U.S. Bonds" to finally honor her request."
Listen here:


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Wednesday, 26 May 2010
right now
I wouldn't mind of of these while I'm working late and listening to the sound checks for tonight's Nattjazz concert in Røykeriet at Verftet - this concert venue is right below my office...
What are you up to this Wednesday evening?
Film: Fuji Provia 100F
Edit: It's now 1015 pm and I'm still stuck at the office - and the concert with Mulatu Astatke has just started. It almost feels like I'm there. Haha.
2 comments:
i adore the light in the photo. gorgeous.ReplyDelete
xo Alison
You have a very beautiful blog and there are lots of inspirations here as well. And I can see there are lots of comments about how great your blog is. so keep on writing and sharing your life with us.ReplyDelete
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subset: commoncrawl


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Tax Preparer
Jackson Hewitt, Inc.
Completed 70 returns this season, generating a stellar $12,000 in fees for our office. Also met sales goals on company products offered to customers.
This is my third season preparing taxes, and I am responsible for three other employees who work in our kiosk at the local Wal-Mart.
Put my electronics knowledge to good use as I helped customers decide their home office, entertainment, and communications needs.
Worked as a cashier handling cash and processing transactions on a daily basis.
Undergrad thesis: Writing Professionally for Kindle: From Formulation to Publication


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Mercy Ships Founder and President, Don Stephens, shares in his daily podcast how you can make a lasting difference in a world of need by following the model of Jesus. Including stories collected from all over the world, and especially from those who volunteer with Mercy Ships, Don explains how we don't have to look far for ways to show mercy.
May 23, 2018
Rebekka boarded an early morning flight from Michigan to
surprise her military husband in Alabama. She was worried her
four-month-old daughter would disturb other passengers.
Mercy Ship's one minute daily feature "The Mercy Minute®" encourages listeners to make a lasting difference in a world of need by following the example of Jesus! Don Stephens explains how it doesn't matter if you cross the ocean or just a street–you can help those in need!
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|Related articles
|Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (Charlie) (2006-09-08)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (Michael Tiomkin) (2006-09-08)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (Pascal Bourguignon) (2006-09-08)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties firstname.lastname@example.com (George Neuner) (2006-09-09)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (Charlie) (2006-09-11)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (George Neuner) (2006-09-12)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties firstname.lastname@example.com (Charlie) (2006-09-16)
|Re: Compile to C difficulties email@example.com (russell kym horsell) (2006-09-18)
|"Charlie" <email@example.com>
|16 Sep 2006 15:55:28 -0400
|Compilers Central
|06-09-02606-09-055 06-09-061
|C, code
|16 Sep 2006 15:55:28 EDT
George Neuner wrote:
> If I understand correctly, you've rewritten the DSL recursion in the
> form a threaded interpreter using an auxiliary data structure, and now
> use the real stack mostly for support functions.
Actually I use the real stack for all functions untill a LIMIT is
reached, and then use the auxiliary stack for "calls" between
functions within modules, while still using the real stack for calls
to support functions and to functions in diffirent modules. The LIMIT
is still a "guess-timation" and when it is set High the auxiliary
stack is seldom evoked, except for occasions I do not really
> While that certainly solves your stack overflow problem, I would bet
> it is a *lot* slower than directly executing the original recursive
> solution would have been (assuming you could). It probably also uses
> more total memory even though it uses less stack.
It does not seem to be much slower but I have not actually done
benchmarks. Most of my test cases are disk access intensive, which
would tend to hide the differences.
Also the greatest cost would seem to be reallocating the auxilliary
stack. (which also seems to mess up GC, which I tried to put in today
> If you can't eliminate the recursion, generating CPS might be the best
> solution. In CPS code a function call never returns, so the stack
> just keeps growing. You check the stack size before calling a
> function and when it gets too large, you copy the current call frame
> to the bottom of the stack and change the stack pointer ... thus
> freeing all the garbage on the stack at once.
I have seen references to something similiar in Scheme setting.
I do not really know how to do that in semi- portable C.
1) Record bottom of stack
2) memcopy a safe amount around current frame.
3) No Idea how change stack pointer.
References would be helpful
Do not really understand CPS in Gentle setting,
Functions not first class objects, more like Prolog or Mercury
which seem to do "trampolining"
> George
Thanks Charlie.
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comp.compilers page.
Search the comp.compilers archives again.


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Fashion-Style Fashion Industry began early in 19th century. Though it was started in Europe and America, but with globalization, it had reached India & other countries too. Because of this fashion wave in India, fashion designers & clothing manufacturers have pulled up their sleeves & have started designing Indian ethnic clothes that are in line with today"s fashion & fad. We all know India as a land of diversity; same is true in fashion trends also. There are so many fashionable trends that .e & go but one trend that is here from longer time & is getting evolved with passing time, is Salwar Kameez. When it .es to women"s ethnic clothing, there seems to be an endless variety like sarees, lehengas, kurtis, leggings etc. but among all of these ethnic wears, one outfit that has occupied special rack in women"s wardrobe is salwar kameez. Originally from Punjab in India, Salwar Suits have evolved with time & have gained popularity across the globe to such an extent that they have attained reputed position in fashion ramps worldwide. Salwar Kameez, as the name says, is a traditional Indian dress loved by all women across the planet. It is one of the most favorable outfits of ladies not only in India but also in South Asia/Pakistan/Afghanistan and Central Asia. Salwar Kameez is a 3-piece clothing fabric where salwar/bottom is a like trouser or pajamas having legs wide at top and narrow at ankle. The kameez/top is a long shirt or tunic like in which both the sides are left open below the waist line to give the wearer a greater freedom of movement. Salwar Kameez is often paired up with stole like dupatta that acts as a stylish accessory & .pletes the entire outfit. Salwar Suit is one such costume that has inspired the entire fashion industry all over the world & they have started designing their clothes by taking inspiration from it in terms of ease & .fort. It has taken its position in most fashionable, .fortable & stylish attires list after sarees. With changing fashion trends every day, different types of salwar suits are available in the market like cotton salwar suits, stunning anarkali dresses, straight cut suits, patiala salwars, pakistani suits, extra long anarkalis, casual suits & the list is endless. All these suits are designed with various friendly fabrics like georgette, chiffon, crepe, cotton, shimmer, jacquard, satin, net & much more all embellished with fancy prints, embroideries & trendy colors matching the latest fashion trends. The worldwide fame Salwar Kameez has achieved is due to the fact that it suits every occasion/event & .fort feeling it gives to the wearer. Not only it gives elegant look but it is the most .fortable outfit of all & this is the reason for its worldwide popularity. In salwar kameez also, there are varieties like unstitched suits, ready made suits & semi-stitched ones which females can choose as per their convenience. Initially, it was wored by women"s of only certain .munities but it broke all the barriers & have acclaimed itself among the women in the entire world. Even though sarees continue to rule their numero uno position in Indian ethnic family but salwar kameez is none the less. With increase in no. of highly educated & working women, the demand of suits has manifold due to the reason that women"s need to travel in bus or train to reach their offices & that"s they always prefer to wear suits due to ease & .fort. What the above discussion boils down to is that salwar kameez has managed to attain the most lovable outfit position among females across the globe & with daily changing patterns & styles; it is going to stay here & will remain as one of the most fashionable Indian ethnic outfit. About the Author: 相关的主题文章:
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Blog Post that Made Me ThinkChris at RudeCactus.com wrote a post about how much and what kind of information people post about themselves online. He also poses a hypothetical question about online posting behavior. I've wrestled with this issue myself. When I decided to blog about the personal topics of my family and my daughter's Apraxia I decided to use pseudonyms. Dala, Ava, Michael, and all of the other names you see on the blog are pseudonyms. It was just a step that made me slightly more comfortable posting about our personal life on the internet. I am also constantly making judgements about which anecdotes are appropriate for public consumption and which are more private. My husband and I have decided that we are only comfortable posting pictures of the children in which their faces cannot be seen. When I am unsure if my husband will be comfortable about a certain posting topic or picture, I check with him first. I'm sure everyone draws the line between what they're willing to put online and what they aren't differently, but I hope that everyone thinks about it a little.
Weekly Weather ObservationWell, it will hardly come as a surprise that the weather has been extremely hot around here. Reading the news, that statement applies to nearly every area of the US. The thing is, I find myself thinking that I am grateful for that heat to some extent, because it means that winter is not near. I'm originally from New Orleans, LA and still travel there at least once a year. Hot is familiar. Winters that are cold with snow, ice, sleet, and salt all over the roads still feel fundamentally unfamiliar even though I've been living with them for well over half my life. I remember growing up thinking that a jacket was a "winter coat". So, even when it is so hot that I don't take the children outside to play, I'm still glad that I can leave the house without bundling everyone into coats and hats and that I still have daylight at 7:30 pm.
The Weekly MichaelOh my the volume control has become skewed. All of a sudden Michael seems to be extremely loud all the time as his default volume. I wouldn't say he's quite shouting, but almost. He seems to think that talking at a very high volume is a perfectly normal thing to do. And he's so earnest when he's talking. He really just wants you to hear the VERY IMPORTANT THING he has to share. I hate to interrupt that earnestness with the rather mundane request to "tell me quietly please," but I am starting to feel assualted. It is exhausting, somehow, to be shouted at all day long by an earnest three year old. I suppose my next campaign will need to be constant reminders to use an inside voice.
Ava this Week:In the beginning I didn't have a name because Ava couldn't talk. That was hard and so when "Mama" came I was so excited. I love "Mama." If I could choose what to be called forever, that would be it. Then, a few weeks ago, Ava switched to "Mommy" completely on her own. I noticed, of course, but I didn't draw particular attention to the switch hoping it would pass and that she'd return to "Mama" at some point in the future.
This week, she has suddenly started calling me "Maw-Maw". Seriously?!? "Maw-Maw?" It makes me feel like an 80 year old grandmother. Definitly not my first choice. Ok. It also makes me giggle a little inside because it is pretty funny. Again, I'm trying not to draw her attention to the shift hoping this too shall pass.


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6 Strategies For Professional Emancipation
This article is part of an exclusive month-long program on CAREEREALISM to help readers break free of The Golden Handcuff Effect. Click HERE to learn more about the Professional Emancipation Project, a.k.a. The P.E.P. Talk.
Professional emancipation is good news. It frees professionals to work on projects where they can excel, and jettison work they're not suited for. It allows them the space to bring more of "themselves" to work. It lowers experts' switching costs when changing jobs, in turn forcing employers to engage professionals in a more genuine, holistic, and interested way. It simplifies how professionals get things done by allowing them to tap personal networks when formal channels get clogged.
It's not hyperbole to suggest that social communication tools have completely changed the communication landscape—and that changing the way we communicate has fundamentally changed what's possible at work.
But let's be clear: your professional emancipation will be scary if you're not prepared. Nature abhors a vacuum, and emancipation creates a vacuum. It eliminates the structures you're used to. You may hate those structures, but they're your comfort zone, and you'll miss them when they're gone. Unless you're ready, in which case your emancipation will be exactly what you hope: freedom.
So let's get you ready:
6 Strategies For Professional Emancipation
(And I'm serious: these aren't tactics masquerading as strategies, these are real, honest-to-goodness strategies. They'll take time—something between months and years—to implement. And you may want a coach to help you.)
1. Be Profersonal™
The level of transparency social media brings to communication is destroying the lines between our personal and professional networks faster than we can recreate them. And that's a good thing. Imagine yourself as a successful executive.
You've been working for 30 years and have developed a great reputation. Is it possible to achieve that without having befriended at least a few key clients along the way? Executives, sales professionals, and recruiters have long lived a profersonal™ existence. Now the rest of us will, too. Upshot: friending your boss on Facebook is next season's black.
2. Be Present Now
I advocate for a form of branding I have dubbed Workforce Marketing—the alignment between individual and organizational brands. It's counterintuitive, but this alignment is critical in an emancipated world. When everyone's a free agent, skills get commoditized, so the way in which you differentiate shifts from hard skills ("I'm an engineer") to softer skills ("I'm a team player").
Of course, you could tell everyone that you're passionate and innovative, but you've probably already tried that on your LinkedIn profile, and discovered it doesn't work. The easiest way to communicate your soft skills is to attach yourself to the company you work for, completely and without reservation.
Consider the difference between: "I'm an SEO expert for Google," and "I'm an SEO expert for Greenpeace." The association communicates a tremendous amount, with the added benefit of brevity. This is the power of Workforce Marketing for the emancipated professional. Upshot: change your LinkedIn summary.
4. Be Focused
The other way to differentiate your skills is to get hyper-focused. Hyper super ultra über focused. The faster people can opt in to or out of your services, the better. Upshot: knowing exactly what you want makes you more attractive and, ironically, opens more doors for you than trying to keep yourself "ready for anything."
5. Be Savvy…Er
We all love to hate politics—myself included. But consider this scenario: it's you and four colleagues on a project. You have to work together to succeed, but only one of you will be retained for Phase two. Oh, and the client is great person who you love working with, but he's a notoriously unclear communicator who often shares out-of-date information or mistakes unconfirmed rumor for fact. (I think we know how this story ends.) Upshot: politics, done right, isn't backstabbing, but open-face poker. The first step in learning it is to stop hating it.
6. Be Friends With Your Exes
I had a friend in college who would break up with a girl on a Tuesday and would have a date with the girl's roommate by Friday—set up by the ex herself. It took me years to understand how he did it, or why. Now I get it. He was starting with the end in mind. He knew his ex would continue to be in his life, so rather than treat break-ups as ends, he treated them as transitions. Upshot: be like my friend.
7. Be Forward-Facing
The downside of freedom is the ambiguity that comes with it: should you take this project, or wait for the next one? And of course, whichever you choose, it'll be wrong. Upshot: Make a choice, stick with it, move forward. No need for regret, regret will only compound your mistakes with extra stress.
Professional emancipation is a big deal… and these strategies will get you ready in a big way… good luck!
The P.E.P. Talk
This article is part of our P.E.P. Talk Series. Over the next month, some of the brightest and best authors, business professionals, and coaches are coming together to share their valuable advice for breaking free of "The Golden Handcuff Effect" so you can take full ownership of your careers and experience Professional Emancipation.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock


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Hello, friends. It's been more than two months since my last confessions… 😀
I actually do **really think** that this time, my blog is back for good.
A lot has happened recently. It's hard for me to even begin to put it all in a sequence, or to try and make sense of it all. Suffice to say, it's been nigh on impossible for me to think straight enough to actually blog.
I handed in my notice in work today. I'm not going to go in to detail here, at least for the forseeable future, so if you want to know, email me privately. The company I work for have been wonderful to me, very supportive through my illness, but various circumstances recently have made it impossible for me to continue working there. The decision to leave was very painful for me, but I think essential.
So, this evening, I'm feeling a bit ambivalent, to be honest. My wee ebay business is going from strength to strength- long may it last. It's going to be paying the bills from now on, and that both excites and terrifies me!
I'm really looking forward to spending more time with my kids. Ricky is absolutely DISGUSTED that he still has to go to primary school while me and Robbie will be at home. I have tried to explain to him why it's necessary, but I think, although he really enjoys school, he sees it as some kind of punishment!
I've just got back from an absolutely wonderful three day trip to London with my Aunt- definitely a post about that coming up in the next few days!
I do have a lot- an awful lot- to write about at the minute. I leave work at the end of November- the whole "blog therapy" thing will no doubt be invaluable to me around then!
Blogging might be a little bit intermittent over the next week or two, and I will have to work hard to get back to speed with those of you whose blogs I read. I cannot begin to tell you how much I have missed all of my blog friends- I hope you might still have a place for me.
Before I go, there are a few people I want to send shouts out to.
Firstly, regular reader Emma C has just had her first baby, a gorgeous wee girl called Kitty! Congratulations Emma!
Secondly, equally regular reader Emma G has announced her second pregnancy! Woohoo! Emma G has been massively supportive to me, and gives the best advice ever. She should seriously consider charging for her services. 😛
Thirdly, can I publicly thank my friend The Taoist Biker for sending me some truly fantabulous CD's for my car. They are as long and varied as they are enjoyable, and have been on constant play ever since!!
Finally, you might remember that a while ago, my friend Kristi found out that her beautiful daughter Gabriella needed a new heart. Very sadly, Gabriella recently suffered a stroke. She's making absolutely incredible progress, but the whole family is constantly in my thoughts. If you have a few minutes, head over to Kristi's website to read the whole story and marvel at this incredible little girl and her strong will to fight back.
More to come in a few days!


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It's a little bizarre to think that I've been following Aimee Mann now for 24 whole years, ever since I read Elvis Costello's heartfelt praise of her lyrical solo debut album Whatever ('Today's the 4th of July / Another June has gone by / And when they light up our town I just think / What a waste of gunpowder and sky'). She released her latest album, Mental Illness, a couple of weeks ago and it's her strongest work in years. Here she is on the Late Show with a beautiful arrangement of the single Goose Snow Cone. Love her distinctive voice, and was so lucky to see her perform in London in 2007.
See also:
Music: Waiting for the gift of sound & vision, 16 January 2016
Music: Lawrence Arabia, 24 October 2015
Music: Pajama Club, 4 December 2011
Music: The Girls Guitar Club, 2 September 2009
Music: Here & Now 80s Tour, 19 May 2008
Music: Grant-Lee Phillips, 29 April 2008


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Combine trips, walk or bike for some extra exercise and energy savings.
Drive to the speed limit and maintain tire pressure for easy gas savings.
Turn your thermostat down just two degrees in the winter to stay comfortable and save money.
Take five minute showers for squeaky-clean energy savings.
Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use to stop costly electricity leaks.
Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs that use 75% less electricity and last 7-10 times longer.
Wash clothes in cold water to save money and preserve your clothing.
Turn your central air conditioning up just two degrees to stay comfortable and save money.
Close doors and windows to give your room A/C a break.
Program your thermostat for smart heating and cooling (and lower bills)
Use fans instead of your central A/C on cool summer nights.
Use fans instead of your window A/C on cool summer nights.
Close windows and doors to give your central A/C a break during the summer
Leave your car at home and take the bus once a week for work, school or errands.
Replace your 15+ year old window A/C with a shiny new efficient unit.
Replace your 20+ year old furnace with a shiny new efficient unit.
Replace your older central air conditioner and treat yourself to savings.
Replace your 15+ year old fridge with a shiny new efficient unit.
Replace your older inefficient vehicle with a car that gets at least 30 miles per gallon.
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Please click on the links below to view the policy of your choice. They will open in a new window and you will need Adobe PDF reader that can be downloaded from Adobe website.
Equality Act
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'Thuppaakki' is movie directed by AR Murugadoss and pairs up Vijay and Kajal Aggarwal. The schedules for the movie are complete and the movie is set for release.
C Ravidevan, producer for movie 'KaLLaThupaakki' filed petition in Chennai High Court accusing that title for movie 'Thuppaakki' and the design bear semblance to his movie.
Two months back, ban was imposed upon the title. Ban was imposed six times for the movie's title since producer for 'Thuppaakki' did not furnish relevant documents.
The clash for title has not abated still. The case came for hearing in Chennai High Court yesterday. Magistrate who heard the case postponed hearing to coming 17th.
Producer for the movie and Vijay's fans are anxious as there is persistent ban upon title for the Vijay Starrer which is to be released during Deepavali,


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Don't Be Shy
Whispered yearnings, Are your ears burning? Your name on my lips, Waiting for your kiss. A shy smile . . . Just friends for a while. Soon it will be more, You know you're the one I adore. When curiosity …
Lights in the Field
During my senior year of high school and the months following graduation, my best friend and I spent a lot of time hanging out at my parents' house and driving around on the dirt roads of Madison County. We spent …
Posted in Believe It or Not Tagged Arkansas, believe it or not, dirt road, friend, lights, Madison County, orb, unexplainable, Web I Weave, webiweave Leave a comment
A friend is a friend that will always be, like the friend you'll find in me. A friendship should be a blast, and forever it should last. When dark waters start rollin' in, Let them pass on by and be …
Posted in Poetry Tagged friend, friendship, poetry, Web I Weave, webiweave Leave a comment


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Friday, January 22, 2016
Going for the Blogosphere!
by Robert W. Walker
While an author needs be cautious with BSP-–Blatant SELF-Promotion-–as it can be as off-putting as SPAM, there are professional techniques. For instance, learn what is acceptable or not when on a given site/chat group. Below are acceptable forms of BSP-ing every author should look into:
Sig line: We all know to beef up emails with a signature line—always a good idea, but many folks on various groups are terribly put off by our doing a full-blown commercial for our books on their "space". This said there are legit ways to gain attention for a forthcoming book.
Set up a blog from your series/main character's point of view or your own perspective. Many authors are doing this these days. Setting up a blog is easy at www.blogspot.com--a Google spot easy to navigate.
Set up a Group-a-Blog! Yes, a group of us Chicago mystery and suspense writers are an example at Acme Authors(http.//acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com).It's great as you're only responsible for content one day per week. We began as Chicago authors but recently have added on, and we have frequent interviews and guests. A group-a-blog that involves many authors also means a built in support group!
Set up a website most assuredly! An author needs an online address to promote herself, set up free advice, contests, and giveaways as I have at www.robertwalkerbooks.com. It is so important that people can find you and your books—public figure that you are.
Join the web Bandwagon! How many times this week did you hear the word Twitter? Check out www.Twitter.com and join as with other seriously large social groups online like www.Facebook.com, www.myspace,com, www.Crimespace.com, www.Plaxo.com--all of which allow you to "network" online, building connections so that "your web" grows larger said the spider to the fly.
Cross pollinate! Once you're part of a huge social network, lure readers to your work via your various addresses while being your wonderful self (if they like you, they buy your book!). Humor and interesting content is how you Pied Piper people to your blog and website. I'm on www.dorothyl.com and www.murdermustadvertise.com in addition to all of the above. You tell people at the various bandwagon sites in quick bites where they can find the whole meal deal at your site and your blog. You suggest, cajole, urge folks over without a smell of leftover Spam by providing a url, which allows Dick and Jane to decide and not you for them. Meanwhile, you can also duplicate your blog efforts (articles) to play on some of these bandwagon sites (cut and paste your original blog, and it does double or triple-duty at myspace, facebook, crimespace blogs. It's how we got through college—making one research paper do double duty in more than one class/venue! You can also catch my articles on writing at www.speakwithoutinterruption.com. Does it keep me busy? Yes. Does it pull me away from my next book project? Yes. Is it worth it? By all means.
Posted by Jean Henry Mead at 8:02 PM
Labels: Blogosphere, DorothyL, Facebook, MurderMustAdervertise, promote books, Robert Walker, Twitter
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Ohh hahaha... I think this time it really been a little boy! Still quite funny (Chinese boys can be naughty too!).
Anyhow next time let the kid play in sandboxed server. Unban might be automatic in 3 days. Not sure I am by no means am admin here or anything. I just a[sk] and [aX] fanboy... Oh and I love the game AND the admins here.
Hope u be ok there kanufleng.
Oh and since a few month I also am a TheVicar fanboy since he is the most funny guy in the game!
P.s. vicar u seen hillbillyNinja? Is he ok?
Take care all!!!!


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Here is a small taster of a forthcoming journey into the archives and history of Haunted Earth with Chris Halton.
This new production DVD set will re-visit some of the many haunted locations visited by Haunted Earth over the years, and will include the very best and most interesting paranormal video and experiences in this large compilation presented to you by Chris.
Currently, the Haunted Churches section is being shot, but will include many other locales ranging from castles to houses both here in the UK and abroad.
This professionally edited and presented set will be an archive collection to treasure on real paranormal activity, and real experiences of stepping into the unknown.
Full announcements on costs and where to buy later.
In this video is a tiny part of the experiences and phenomena at England`s oldest church on the Essex marshes at Bradwell on Sea.
For updates on shoots with free `peek in` video, and photographs from location, please visit Chris on Facebook at facebook.com/Haunted.Earth.


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Why do you want the job you do? Success is a subtle, but deadly god in America. But unlike the typical career path in our country, our God only trades in the currency of grace. We've been accepted and loved long before we clock in on Monday.
Source: www.desiringgod.org
Being a success at work can play god and make promises to you that it cannot and will not keep. Success promises to fill holes in our hearts and overcome our fears and insecurities.
See on Scoop.it – Elevate Christian Network News
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Super 8 - Sault Ste Marie
3525 I75 Business Spur
Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783
Phone: (906) 632-6000
Toll Free: (800) 536-0719
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Conveniently located. Recently remodeled in 2015. Featuring a pool and spa, with a salt purification system, and cedar sauna. Daily complimentary continental breakfast. Free local calls. Cable television with HBO, ESPN and ESPN 2. Guest laundry. Wireless internet with Ethernet cables available. Snowmobile from parking lot. Convenient to restaurants, attractions, casinos, and downtown. Driving north on I-75, take Exit 392, turn right. We are approx. 1 mile down on the right.
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Sharif Saber has been named head women's soccer coach at the University of Mount Olive, it was announced by Associate Director of Athletics LaToya Lindsey Wednesday.
"Sharif brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience and is going to be a great addition to the athletics' staff. He has the initiative and drive that will help propel our women's soccer program to the next level. We are very fortunate to have Sharif join us and we are excited to see him and the team succeed," said Lindsey.
"I want to thank Erik Burstein, the Kutztown University women's soccer head coach, without him I would not be here today. I also want to thank Jeff Eisen and LaToya Lindsey, who were wonderful during the interview process. Finally, I want to thank my previous players," said Saber." "I am really looking forward to being here. There is a tremendous opportunity at UMO and I feel we have the potential to build a successful sustainable program. Genuinely, it will become a soccer family. I do not know how long it will take but it is going to be a fun journey."
Saber spent the past year as the assistant coach at NCAA DII Kutztown University. During his time at KU Saber helped the Golden Bears to 16-4-1 overall record, a No. 1 DII National ranking, and an NCAA Tournament Appearance. Before his time at Kutztown Saber spent time as the head coach at Penn State Brandywine from 2015-17. While at PSUB Saber was named the USCAA National Coach of the Year after leading the Lions to a Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference Championship and an appearance in the USCAA national tournament in 2016.
He also has served as a staff coach at Penn Fusion Soccer Academy, where he earned coach of the year honors in 2017, as well serving as the head coach of the Kutztown High School varsity team from 2011-13. Saber was also a member of the USCAA 30 under 30 class of 2014 the recognizes the top coaches under 30 years of age for their excellence in coaching.
He obtained his Bachelor's Degree in History from Bloomsburg University in 2009 and earned his Master's Degree in education from Kutztown University in 2013.


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Federal jury selection for African-American elected official William Beavers hit a surprising and unusual snag Tuesday as soon as the panel of 50 prospective jurors walked into U.S. District Judge James Zagel's courtroom.
There was not one African-American male in the randomly-selected group, prompting strong commentary from Beavers' defense team and a request that the pool be dismissed.
"We were astonished," Beavers attorney Victor Henderson said to Zagel after the jury was excused from the courtroom. "There is not one black male and just one or two black females."
After hearing from Henderson, Zagel acknowledged it was rare to have a panel without a black male, but he also said there are potential legal problems with dismissing a properly-selected random panel.
Zagel declined the defense request and instead instructed both prosecutors and defense attorneys to confer with the U.S. Clerk's office for the Northern District of Illinois to ensure the selection process used to put together the larger panel was done according to established protocols.
In the meantime, he continued to question jurors from the panel of 50 in order to select 12 who will sit for trial. At the end of Tuesday, he had questioned 24, and selection was scheduled to continue Wednesday.
Outside court, Beavers' attorneys called the process "rigged" and said they had no confidence that checking with the clerk's office would make a difference.
"I've been trying cases down here 52 years. I have never seen a case where I represented a black (male) defendant and they sent out 50 jurors, 50! 50 jurors! And not one single black man," said a highly agitated Sam Adam Sr. "Now don't tell me that was an accident."
Beavers, 78, a Cook County commissioner since 2006 and Chicago alderman before that, faces charges he failed to pay taxes on tens of thousands of dollars that he converted from his campaign funds for personal expenses. Though typically outspoken, Beavers left the commentary Tuesday to his attorney.
When asked about Zagel's instructions to confer with the clerk's office, Adam scoffed and said attorneys are planning to move ahead with the panel they have.
"What are they gonna say? We did it on purpose? … This was all rigged some place," he said. "Some place in this so-called federal system, this was all rigged."
Randall Samborn, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's office in Chicago, had no comment.
Names of potential jurors for Chicago's federal trials are randomly drawn from voter registration records for residents of Cook, Du Page, Will, Lake, Grundy, Kane, Kendall and La Salle counties.
According to a written jury plan, which was recently updated, it is required that each county be proportionately represented in this master list of prospective juror names.
The next time the list is replenished, which occurs every two years, it will include state driver's records.


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BlackBerry Z10 gives a really fresh on this new flagship device. When you first see it, that's instantly remind us of the Apple iPhone 5, which is a tall and thin shape. With the straight edges and corners are slightly rounded. The difference on this Z10 has a wider dimensions. With this handset makes Z10 easily operated with one hand. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages the BlackBerry Z10.
BlackBerry 10 OS
Not only the design is fresh, the interface of OS Blackberry 10 is also completely new, and different from previous versions of the OS, and therefore even if you are familiar with older Blackberry OS still have to adapt to this new version. As with iOS, BlackBerry OS 10 is claimed to optimize the performance of the hardware capabilities that the phone still can satisfy users. It is therefore only used dual-core processor Krait on Z10.
Excellent feature on the blackberry Z10
Is the Blackberry Hub. Much like social feeds on the OS version 7, but with a wider range of communication. He was able to present any communications made from the user's email, BBM, SMS, social networking accounts such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as phone calls.
Hardware Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon Chipset, Prosesor Dual-core 1.5 GHz Krait, Adreno 225 GPU, RAM: 2GB RAM, Internal Storage: 16GB , external: 64; Battery 1800mAh
Camera Z10 8 MP, 3264 x 2448 pixels, autofocus, LED flash; Geo-tagging, continuous auto-focus, image stabilization, face detection; video recording 1080p@30fps, video stabilization; camera sekunder: 2 MP, 720p@30fps
- Blackberry Z10 supports 3G HSDPA networks and 4G LTE, although in our country is still not able to use the 4G network. We can still use the 3G network to access the Internet quickly
- BlackBerry OS 10 different and more user friendly than previous versions
- Browser performance with a speed of 52m ms, making the Blackberry smartphone Z10 became the fastest in its class
- Process of downloading at speeds up to 8.4 mbps, making this smartphone be the fastest in terms of downloading files.
- Supports NFC technology, where this feature allows us to conduct transactions or payments online
- Application at BlackBerry World for the BlackBerry OS version 10 is still minimal
- Not maximal application contained in blackberry app world.
- Screen is standard, Smartphone in the class have been using OLED.
- Weight is rather heavy, making us hard to grasp when Blackberry Z10
- Absence of a QWERTY keyboard, users find it difficult to make the process of typing
With a massive overhaul in several sectors, BlackBerry definitely want to take his throne back after a long eroded by products such as Android or iOS. Judging from the OS sector Z10 feels great potential for BlackBerry to get back in the competitive smartphone market competition.


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Sometimes it seems like every illustrator of the mid-20th century must have worked in New York, Chicago, Detroit or San Francisco/L.A.
That's because we've come to know so many of them by seeing their credit lines and signatures on illustrations in magazines or on books, catalogues and posters published in those major centres. But as long-time readers will already know, there were countless talented artists working in smaller towns and cities all over North America, enjoying successful careers as professional illustrators. One such artist was Steven G. Dobson of Downers Grove, Illinois.
I first read about Steven Dobson in the Spring 1957 issue of Famous Artists magazine, which showcased him as a successful alumnus of the Famous Artists course.
By coincidence, I'd come across an ad Steven Dobson illustrated in one of the mid-1950s issues of the Saturday Evening Post in my collection. Dobson's illustration had stuck in my mind, so when I saw the ad reproduced at thumbnail size in FA magazine, I was pleased to be able to go back and connect the two.
Next came some online detective work. Much to my delight, I managed to locate Dobson's daughter, Katie Dobson Cundiff, who is a remarkably talented artist in her own right.
On her website Katie wrote, "I acquired an early appreciation for the fine arts, drawing, and painting, under the tutelage of artist parents." And when we began corresponding, she told me, "My parents met while attending the Chicago Academy of Art in the early '40's. My mom also taught for awhile and later became a display artist for Marshall Fields & Co."
My correspondence with Katie is just getting started, so I hope to bring you more news about her parents in a future post. As I said, not every illustrator of the mid-20th century was a "famous artist" - but that doesn't mean they didn't leave behind a legacy of admirable work.
And what could be more gratifying than to have inspired a talented daughter to pursue her own artistic ambitions? No fame could be more impressive.


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Commercial Officer Export Incubator
Philips South africa
Reporting lines: Supply Chain Manager Incubator Africa
Aim of the job: Responsible for day to day operations for export customer and expediting orders. Ensure those customer expectations are met by ensuring that orders are accurately processed and monitored. Ensure that high standard of customer service is provided. Actively interact with 3PL, internal warehouse and shipping departments by facilitating both outbound and inbound processes. Ensuring that Export forecast is timeously and accurately submitted.
Key Areas of Responsibility :
- Quotations Responsible for quotation processing
- Ensuring that correct Commercial terms and pricing issued for Quotation
- Weekly quotation reports Responsible for maintaining quotation reports
- Order Processing Responsible for creating customer sales orders in the SAP system within expected time PO processing with Factories and follow up.
- Customer service (Providing weekly updates to customers regarding their orders by tracking the ETA and ETA)
- Checking on delivery condition and completeness of all orders.
- Create and co-ordinate shipments for customer orders.
- Liaise with Planners to receive updates on stock levels and planned deliveries from overseas factories
- Send reports to customers and BDM"s on a weekly basis.
- Order and Container consolidations Preparations of SI (Shipping instructions)
- Returns processing Invoicing Pro-forma invoice accuracy Initiate commercial invoicing confirming the accuracy of the information on the invoices to limit later queries
- Internal Customer service Internal control system (ICS) preparations for export orders.
- Monthly and quarterly Forecast(AOP) Monitoring DRM (Delivery reliability Measurements) by meeting targets.


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How to Make Outdoorsy Friends
I moved away from my family when I headed to college at age 18. Since then I've lived in a different time zone than my brother and parents. Over time, when you live away from home, your friends become your new family. A little over a year ago, I realized that my lifestyle, hobbies and interests were drastically different than that of my older friends. Not that this is a bad thing, I have some friendships that I've made since moving to Denver that are still well and alive eight years later, however, I needed a few gal pals to go on adventures with. So, I went on a mission, to find some badass wilderness babes that could climb couloirs, scale big walls, and backpack up to remote peaks. I needed to find my tribe and make outdoorsy friends.
Join a Meetup, or Three
When I first moved to Denver after college over eight years ago, I was scared. My entire social network had just been forceably dropped beneath me. I knew no one, and I was alone. In a moment of desperation (and probably too much wine), I Googled, "How to make friends." That's when I discovered Meetup.
Meetup is an online network where you can join social groups with a particular interest. Do you collect comic action figures? There's a meetup for that. Want to network with other small business owners? Meetup. Looking for other women who are interested in the outdoors? There's a meetup for that too.
Tips: Just be yourself. A lot of people who join hiking an outdoor group are actually new to the state, so you won't be alone if you too have just moved to a new place. Remember that everyone is there for the same reason, they are all looking to connect with new people just like you.
Make Outdoorsy Friends by Joining Local Outdoors Clubs
It might be a little unfair for me to comment on this in since I'm spoiled here in Colorado. However, outdoor clubs are a fantastic way to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts. The Colorado Mountain Club, the American Alpine Club, Outdoor Women's Alliance, Hike Like a Woman and Women Who Hike all provide an awesome platform to meet adventure lovers.
Many of these groups offer classes in outdoor skills, group trips, volunteer opportunities, social events, and even pro deals. I'm a member of the Colorado Mountain Club. I've taken a few courses with them and learned a lot about skills that would otherwise be difficult for me to feel comfortable trying on my own. The Outdoor Women's Alliance has been an excellent resource for bouncing women-related ideas and inspiration off one another (ask me about their book club!). Last, but certainly not least, as an ambassador, I'm an active member of the Hike Like a Woman community.
Tips: The more you are involved with these groups, the easier it is to meet people. Try signing up for a class or volunteer opportunity. Classes usually involve a field element, which allows you to go out and practice your skills. This is a great way to meet people who are looking to get involved with activities you've always wanted to try.
Making Real-World Friendships on Social Media
I am the first to admit that social media can be a total time suck. However, I met one of my really good friends through Instagram of all places. It was the first time I had reached out to a total stranger via social media, but it turned out that a silly message with the opening lines "I hope this isn't creepy" has led to one of the coolest friendships I've had. It definitely takes some guts to reach out to a total stranger but more than likely, people are excited to talk to a fellow adventurer.
Facebook, as annoying and almost "dated" as it is, still provides amazing opportunities to meet others. A lot of local adventure groups have their own Facebook groups. If there's a hobby, there's a Facebook group for it. I met one of my good friends, Vivian, through a blogging group based in the UK!
Tips: Don't be a total weirdo, engage with people first. Like and comment on photos and stories as a way to introduce yourself. See someone send a sick route that you've always wanted to try? Say so! That way when you message them, they already know you care about what it is they are up to and you seem more approachable.
I used to be a total curmudgeon when it came using the internet to find friends. However, it's not really all that bad. It takes time to develop lasting friendships, but putting yourself out there is the first step. Making adventure friends via the internet has been one of the more rewarding things I've ever tried. I now have a solid group of badass lady pals that I can get together with.


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A long, long time ago I made this galaxy crop top! It went well up until I decided to wash it, and loving galaxy shirt soooo much I was a little disappointed at how it looked after the wash. It was all faded (probably because I used acrylic paint) and crunchy! Oh well lesson learned, it sure looks pretty here.
I'd sure love to see any tutorials you have for galaxy shirts!


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Kids of all ages are invited to explore astronomy in the GirlStart STEM Studio and Mini- Planetarium. GirlStart is hosting their next free Starry Nights event on Thursday, Sept. 4 from 5:30 – 7 p.m and will focus on the theme of Inuit Mythology.
This event — featuring star shows and hands-on activities — is completely free but registration is required. RSVP here.
Save the dates for all of the Starry Nights this fall:
- Sept. 4
- Oct. 2
- Nov. 6
- Dec. 4
Have fun!


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Most of the artists on the site are happy to accept commission requests. Availability can change from time to time depending on the rest of the artist's workload. In most cases, commission pricing is posted on each artist's page in the ART SALES section. Feel free to contact us for more details, or to obtain pricing and availability on a specific request.
How long will my commission take to complete?
- As a general rule, commissions take roughly 12 to 16 weeks for delivery. However, this can vary widely depending on the artist, and their current workload. Publication deadlines must always take first priority.
Are the artists willing to do more mature subject matter (nudity, etc)?
- Most artists we represent are fine with commission requests involving tasteful nudity. This is a personal decision for each artist as to the type of material that they are comfortable drawing. Some artists are more than happy accepting commission requests involving material that is more graphic in nature, others are not. If you have a particular artist or request in mind, feel free to contact us and we can let you know if the artist in question would be willing to accept your request, or which artists on the site might be best suited to your commission idea.
I see that all commission prices are for 11" x 17" commission requests. Are the artists willing to accept 9" x 12" commissions? If so, how much are they?
- Most artists are happy to accept 9" x 12" commission requests. As a general rule, 9" x 12" commission requests are 70% of the stated prices for 11" x 17" commissions.
I have created my own original characters, and I would like to commission artwork featuring these original characters. Is this possible?
- Most artists are happy to draw your original characters for you. These commissions are 20% more expensive than standard commissions to account for the artist's unfamiliarity with the characters. More often than not, this type of request involves more work on the part of the artist.
I have my own creator-owned comic book, and I am looking for an artist for this project. Do you have artists that are willing/able to do sequential artwork aimed for publication?
- Yes, we do have artists that are interested in working on new projects for general publication. Commission pricing is a bit different for sequential panel pages (please inquire), and we would be happy to discuss your project with you in hopes of pairing you with the right artist to fit your needs. Often artists are signed to exclusive contracts with major publishers, so in this case they may not be able to accept work for publication, but may still occasionally be available for panel page commissions with the caveat that they are for private use only and may not, under any circumstances, be published. It also bears mentioning that in a "work-for-hire" arrangement (when artwork is created for publication) the customer is entitled to use the artwork for the sole purpose of publication, and the actual artwork itself remains in the possession of the artist. Separate arrangements can be made if you would like to purchase the original artwork as well.
May I post my commissioned artwork on my personal website, in a public art gallery (such as comicartfans.com), or elsewhere online?
- While you will own the original commissioned artwork, the artist retains the rights to the images themselves. That being said, you should feel free to post the artwork online provided that it is not overly graphic in nature. While some artists might be willing to accept requests of a more graphic nature, this type of material should NOT be posted publicly, and is for private use only. As a rule of thumb, anything that is not R-rated is fine to share. If you are uncertain about a particular piece, feel free to ask us about it. Otherwise, when in doubt, it would probably be better to err on the side of caution. Of course, if the art is posted here in the artist's own gallery, then you should feel free to post it in your gallery as well. Also feel free to link back to our site so everyone will know where they can go to obtain similar work! Any free advertising is always appreciated.
Time payments:
Do you accept time payments?
- Time payments can be arranged on larger purchases. As a general rule, a 20% non-refundable deposit is required on all time payments. This deposit will be credited towards the purchase price of the art when payment is made in the agreed upon timeframe. The exact terms of the time payment (duration of time allowed, etc) can vary based on the size of the purchase and the amount of time requested, and these terms can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
How much is shipping?
- Domestic shipping is $12 for 11" x 17" artwork, and $9 for 9" x 12" artwork. Insurance is required, and is an additional $1.50 for the first $100, $1 for each additional hundred or part thereof. So, for example, if your purchase is $225, insurance would be an additional $3.50.
- International shipping is $25 for regular air mail or $40 for Global Express Mail. Insurance is not available on regular air mail, but is available with GEM. GEM is strongly recommended on all purchases over $300. GEM is trackable and requires a signature. There is no tracking on regular air mail, and we cannot be held responsible for any packages that are lost in transit when sent via regular air mail.
Do you combine shipping on multiple purchases?
- YES! We are more than happy to combine shipping on multiple website and/or eBay purchases. Each additional item is $1 extra for shipping (both domestic and international).
Can you hold my package to ship with future purchases so I can continue to save on shipping costs?
- Yes, this is fine as well. We can hold packages indefinitely. We just ask that you pay the initial shipping cost with your first purchase. From that point on you can simply add $1 for each additional item purchased (plus insurance).
What is your return policy?
- Returns are accepted if the artwork is damaged in transit or misrepresented in any way. Otherwise, if you purchase the artwork and then simply change your mind, all returns are subject to a 20% restocking fee.
How often do you list eBay auctions, and how can I find them?
- We try to list new eBay auctions each and every week. Our eBay seller ID is "comiconart!!". All auctions can be found via the link at the top of the page!
I would like to bid on future auctions and combine shipping costs. How much time do I have to pay for my auctions?
- We are happy to hold packages indefinitely so that you can save as much as possible on shipping costs. We just ask that you make payment on all auctions within 10 days of auction end. If you would like to combine shipping, simply include a note with your payment indicating, "Please hold to ship with future purchase". You can also e-mail us directly with this request. Just include the full shipping/insurance cost with your first purchase, and we can send you adjusted invoices for all future purchases. This way, we can pay the artists in a timely fashion as well.
I am an artist seeking professional representation. How do I join the ComiConArt stable of artists?
- We are always looking for new talent to add to the site. Please feel free to contact us if you are seeking representation, and we would be happy to take a look at your portfolio and discuss the possibilities.


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Rye Saison Version 2
Recipe Specs
Batch Size (L): 20.0
Total Grain (kg): 5.000
Total Hops (g): 60.00
Original Gravity (OG): 1.056 (°P): 13.8
Final Gravity (FG): 1.003 (°P): 0.8
Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 6.93 %
Colour (SRM): 4.1 (EBC): 8.1
Bitterness (IBU): 22.9 (Tinseth)
Brewhouse Efficiency (%): 73
Boil Time (Minutes): 90
Grain Bill
3.500 kg Pilsner (70%)
1.000 kg Rye Malt (20%)
0.250 kg Granulated Sugar (5%)
0.250 kg Rye Malt, Dark (5%)
Hop Bill
20.0 g East Kent Golding Leaf (7% Alpha) @ 90 Minutes (Boil) (1 g/L)
20.0 g East Kent Golding Leaf (7% Alpha) @ 15 Minutes (Boil) (1 g/L)
20.0 g East Kent Golding Leaf (7% Alpha) @ 0 Minutes (Boil) (1 g/L)
Misc Bill
5.0 g Irish Moss @ 15 Minutes (Boil)
5.0 g Yeast Nutrient @ 15 Minutes (Boil)
Single step Infusion at 64°C for 90 Minutes.
Fermented at 23°C with Wyeast 3711 - French Saison
2L yeast starter
Underpitched a little to increase esters
Fermented for 5 weeks in primary at 23°c and 1 week at 10°c
Carb to 2.8 vol
Water profile:
Calcium 92
Sulphate 94
Chloride 87
Bicarb 21
I sent a bottle of this to Serum a while back and hopefully he won't mind that I've included his tasting notes below:
serum wrote:It's got a nice golden colour, poured with a good thick head and is pretty clear, very good lacing on the glass too.
The aroma is grainy from the rye and has that slightly metallic aroma you get when a Belgian beer has been aged for a while.
The mouthfeel is nice and lean, good solid carbonation but not excessive.
Taste wise you can definitely pick up the rye with that very dry flavour and the subtle bitterness mixes well with it. It has a bit of a sherry flavour making it taste like it's been aged. I'd be interested to know when you made this.(The beer was about 3 months old at this point- Stevie) I know transport can oxidise beer so that could have contributed to that.
Your beer definitely tastes authentic so it gets the thumbs up from me.
Below are the BJCP scoresheets in case anyone is interested in reading the judges comments about this beer (if you can decipher the hieroglyphics):
Edit to add:
I forgot to say I can't take credit for the original recipe, it's based on this recipe from Homebrewtalk.


text:
Private Ghost Hunts and Paranormal Investigations
Old South Pittsburg Hospital has many areas to investigate. The Hospital will accommodate groups large or small. When you book a private investigation your group will be the only group admitted into the Hospital.
Overnight investigations start at 6pm on your first day and end at 4pm the afternoon after your last night. When booking a reservation for a ghost hunt at Old South Pittsburg Hospital there is a 6 person minimum pay rate.
Sunday night – Thursday Night: $55 per person | Minimum $330
Friday Night – Saturday Night: $75 per person | Minimum $450
Just some of the rooms that you will encounter are; a Psych Ward, Full Surgical suite consisting of 3 rooms, 2 Labor and Deliveries, Recovery, 2 Nurseries, 2 Maternities, TB Isolation room, Geriatrics, Long Term, Outpatient Surgery, ICU, General Admission, Tri-City Clinic, Pharmacy, ER, Morgue, a full basement to investigate, and many more areas!
Old South Pittsburg Hospital is not like any other location you have ever investigated. It is an amazing hotspot for Paranormal Activity on a daily basis.
- Check in time is 6pm on the day of your arrival. If you plan to arrive later in the day please let us know.
- Check out time is 4pm after your last night in the Hospital
- Sleeping quarters are provided. Please bring your own bedding
- Showers are also available. Please bring your own hygiene products
You MUST purchase your investigation in advanced. Walk-ups are not accepted.


text:
No matter what your age, you will retire one day. Now I don't know about you, but I don't want to retire just to have to pick up a few hours at my local Wal Mart greeting customers to make ends meet. My friend recommended me to read an article on investing and that's why I started investing. I know investing is a scary word for some, but it doesn't have to be. Let's pretend for a moment…
There was a 65 year old gentleman with a median net worth of $170, 156. Let's pretend that all of that net worth is invested in assets that will earn him an annual return of 7%. This is a reasonable return for a fairly conservative stock and bond based mutual fund. Let's also pretend that he expects to live for 25 more years to the age of 90. That means this $170,156 has to last 25 years.
Based on these assumptions, this gentleman will have just under $15,000 to live on each year. That is barely above the poverty line for a one person household. No less than half of all retirement-age residents of the U.S. have only that much to their name.
Can you see the dire situation that this gentleman is in?
No matter what your age, it is time to start investing in assets that will earn you more money. This is the key principle that makes some people wealthy while others get stuck living paycheck to paycheck. If you set money aside, invest it and learn to live on less than you earn, you will end up with more than those who spend their money as soon as they earn it, or worse, before they earn it.
Here is another illustration to show, the difference between beginning your investing at the age of 25 versus starting later in life.
Most 25- year- olds think they have their whole lives ahead of them, and they do, but let me tell you those years pass by quicker than you think. People in their 20s may think they don't need to save for retirement because that feels so far away. Boy, are they wrong. If at the age of 25 you start investing just $50 a month into a plain old mutual fund that earns a long-term average of 10% per year, then at age 65 those $50 per month will be worth about $265,000 and you will have only actually invested $24,000 over those 40 years.
I know what you are thinking: I don't have that kind of money to invest right now. I'll have to wait until I'm a little older. Let's take a 35- year- old. They will have to invest $134 per month, (totaling over $48,000) to have as much as the 25-year-old in the previous illustration by age 65. That's twice as much! And a 45- year- old will have to invest $386 per month totaling $93, 000 over those 20 years from 45 to 65.
If you want to save for retirement I have two suggestions for you:
- Invest your money. Use it to buy assets that pay you back and
- Invest early. Start as soon as you possibly can
Whatever your situation, I suggest that you take a moment and think about your golden years. You really can't afford not to invest today. Whatever you do, do it now!!! None of us are getting any younger.


text:
Whethere you and your partner share a bed or sleep separately, recent studies have discovered that it can affect your health and intimacy profoundly. Also, find out what your sleep position says about your relationship status
Sharing a bed key to a healthy, happy relationship
Researchers from a reputed American university believe sleeping next to someone helps lower the stress hormone cortisol, perhaps because it encourages feelings of safety and security. They say this is why people in close relationships tend to be in better health and live longer.
All pictures for representational purposes
Prolonged periods of elevated cortisol have been linked with an increase in cytokines — proteins involved in inflammation that can trigger heart disease, depression and autoimmune disorders. Sleeping together has a protective effect by lowering the levels of these proteins.
Sharing a bed is also thought to boost levels of the 'love hormone' oxytocin, known to induce bonding feelings. This is traditionally thought to be released during sex, but scientists, who have examined the role of oxytocin in health have found it's also associated with cuddling in bed and 'pillow talk'.
Oxytocin plays a vital role in aiding digestion, reveal studies by scientists from Sweden. Those with lower levels had poorer gastric motility — the process by which food is moved from the stomach to the intestines, therefore slowing down digestion.
A recent research conducted in the US recently supports this theory. 59 women, who were married or had partners to keep a diary of the number of hugs they received over a set time. The scientists then analysed levels of oxytocin in the blood. The women who'd received the most hugs had the highest levels of oxytocin — and the lowest blood pressure and heart rates. They findings showed that sharing a bed may definately improve sleep.
In another study, women in long-term stable relationships fell asleep more quickly and woke up less frequently during the night than single women or women who lost or gained a partner during the six to eight years of the study.
But, sleeping apart can be healthy too!
It has emerged that 39 percent of couples believe their relationship is healthier because they have independence in their home life, while five per cent think having separate beds or even bedrooms is one of the main reasons they are so happy together, revealed a survey conducted by a leading home insurance firm. According to the findings, one in 25 couples have even taking a lengthy "sabbatical" from each other. On an average, couples spend 22 hours together during the working week, with nearly half of all couples blaming hectic work schedules for a lack of "quality time" together.
The survey, which questioned more than 1,000 people aged 18 or over, also discovered that 10 percent of men have a "games room," four percent of women have their own "powder room," and five percent of people would rather spend a night in with their cat or dog than their partner. Furthermore, one in five couples (19 per cent) regularly eat their evening meal at different times, with one in 10 cooking completely different dishes from each other.
And proving that opposites attract, 15 percent of people describe themselves as the "polar opposite" of their partner, while 44 percent believe having different interests or hobbies makes for a stronger relationship. Those under 25 are the most likely age group to spend time apart, with 21 percent admitting they regularly sleep in a separate bed – followed by the over 55s, at 16 percent.
A quarter of 18 to 24-year-olds regularly go on holiday without their other halves, followed by 15 percent of 25 to 34-year-olds. But only six per cent of over 55s admit to going away without their partner.
Did you know? Sleep can enhance sexual arousal
A good night's sleep not only refreshes you for the day but also gives you an extra edge between the sheets. Each additional hour of sleep increased the likelihood of sexual activity with a partner by 14 percent.
In a study of 171 women conducted by a US medical school, those who obtained more sleep on a given night, experienced greater sexual desire the next day. Sleep was also important for genital arousal, such that women who slept longer on average experienced fewer problems with vaginal arousal than women who obtained less sleep.
On any given night, however, women who were tired ended up being more aroused the next day. But eventually, it catches up to them and their desire drops.
A leading international daily explained some of the main sleep positions and their meaning…
The Spoons (him behind)
You both lie on your sides, him facing your back.
The meaning: He's protective of you and quite traditional. He can get sensual reaching around and caressing every part of you. Beware if you never kiss/cuddle in this sleep position as it may become too platonic.
The Spoons (her behind)
You both lie on your sides, you facing his back.
The meaning: You are very nurturing and the backbone of the relationship. He is not afraid of letting go of responsibilities and you being his emotional anchor. Fab as long as your needs aren't neglected.
Poles Apart
Your backs face each other, with a wide gap between them.
The meaning: The intimacy is breaking down and you may be too independent of each other. If being independent suits you both then that's okay, as long as you say a warm goodnight. But be careful you aren't using this position to shut each other out.
Pushed Out
One sprawls in a starfish shape, the other faces away, clinging to the edge of the bed.
The meaning: The sprawler dominates your relationship and they might be selfish and unaware of their partner's needs. If you are the one pushed out, ensure you start asserting yourself during the day.
Need You
One lies on their back, the other is cradled in the crook of their arm cuddled up to them.
The meaning: The partner on their back provides emotional strength and is happy offering emotional support to the other partner who is more needy.
Mixed Messages
One lies tucked up in the foetal position, facing the other who is flat on his/her back.
The meaning: The one in the foetal position needs comfort but feels unable to express their needs to their partner, who is oblivious to their needs. Identify what is going wrong and start talking about it.
One lies on their stomach, their fingertips reaching out to their partner who lies on their back or side.
The meaning: The partner reaching out is submissive in the relationship – the power lies with the other partner.
Pure Lust
Very cuddled up, with your legs entwined and the erogenous zones snuggled into each other.
The meaning: There is loads of passion and sensuality, and you are probably in the honeymoon phase.


text:
Today we marched. We marched in solidarity for the women and men of America, for the protection of women's rights, human rights. We marched for the world we will leave our children.
For a world where its okay to be a woman and stand up for what you believe in. Where it's okay to call yourself a feminist. Where no means no, and rape isn't a joke. A world in which boys and girls love their bodies whatever the size, shape, colour or ability. Where boys can have long hair, talk about their feelings and cry. And girls speak out, play sport and get angry. Where children are children and pink and blue are just colours. For a world that recognises the worth of women and mothers. For reproductive choice and sexual freedom. A world full of female leaders, sporting heroes, scientists and visionary thinkers. Full of male ballet dancers, birth workers and stay at home fathers. For a world where we don't have to keep fighting for equality.
We marched for a world under threat. For women all over the world oppressed, discriminated against and marginalised. For girls and boys, and their future.
We marched for Bee.


text:
The following spring, while awaiting appeal of his sentence, Panahi spent an ordinary day drinking tea, taking phone calls, watching TV, listening to noises from the street, imagining a new film project, and, subversively, filming it all with the help of documentarian Mojtaba Mirtahmasb. The pair edited the footage, saved it to a flash drive and smuggled it out of Iran inside a cake. The result, entitled "This Is Not a Film," premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May, 2011, and has helped direct the attention of the movie and political worlds to the plight of Iranian filmmakers and to Panahi's situation in particular.
Predictably, not much happens in "This Is Not a Film"; dude is under house arrest, after all. But it's absorbing and clever. Panahi's activities -- acting out a potential future film project, letting his son's pet iguana climb over him, reacting in fear to the noise of fireworks in the streets marking the Persian new year, collecting garbage from the other apartments in the building with the janitor -- all have a metaphorical resonance. At one point, he replaces the high-quality camera which he and Mirtahmasb have been using with his iPhone, demonstrating how easy it would be for someone with his determination to make a movie and share it with the world, governments, censors and even prisons be damned.
"This Is Not a Film" has no special effects, no soundtrack, no plot to speak of, and yet it is, in many ways, one of the most tense films you can imagine: the real stakes of real life don't often have the shape of narrative cinema, after all, and we almost never get to see them played out in real time like this.
(77 min., unrated, probably PG, Hollywood Theatre) Grade: B-plus


text:
Public Legal Aid
Legal aid provides individuals with the possibility to obtain assistance for legal matters, fully or partially, at the expense of the State. In Finland, legal aid covers a variety of legal matters.
Legal aid is not usually granted if the applicant has legal expenses insurance covering the matter at hand. Legal aid is not available to companies or corporations.
In matters pending abroad, legal aid covers the costs of legal advice.
In court proceedings, legal aid is offered by public legal aid attorneys, Members of the Bar (attorneys-at-law) and other lawyers; in other matters, legal aid is provided by public legal aid attorneys, who work in State legal aid offices. The offices are normally located in the same municipalities as the District Courts.


text:
JP Markets is a licensed Forex trading company that began its operations in South Africa. The company has grown to be one of the largest Forex brokers in South Africa and Africa as well. The fast growth and success of this Forex Company are attributed to how well they engage with their clients.
In this article, you are going to know more about the company and get to understand it better.
1. The Brokers Reputation
A company's reputation can either build or destroy it. JP Market stands out from the rest because of how they relate to clients. The company does not only offer a trading platform for their clients but they also offer training for the clients too. Their relationships with their clients have earned them a good reputation. JP Market has also earned a good reputation of being one of the only Forex trading companies that offer free training and interests in the Forex industry. In general, this company is known for great customer care.
2. The Spreads Offered
Spreads can be defined as the variables that are based on the forex market conditions. JP Market, offers some very competitive spreads in the market. On an average with JP market you for about 2pips one can get EUR/USD under the normal market conditions. This is can be considered high or low depending on the market and the individual but JP Markets always have their clients at heart. Bottom line, marked by their rapid growth across Africa, one can say that they are on the right track.
3. How About the Fees?
One of the most interesting things about JP Market is that they do not offer any fees. Making bank deposits or withdrawals attract zero fees and the company also does not charge any commission fees. They also offer free training and tutorials on everything forex. This is very cost-effective. Questions have been asked before about how they make their money. JP Market make their money when their client's trade. The company believes when the client grows they also grow that is why they put more effort into client knowledge of the trade.
4. JP Markets Trading Accounts
This company offers all of its clients a single account that has variable spreads. The live forex trading account is easy to open with only three simple steps. The account opening can be done online, making it convenient for you wherever you are. Opening the live account is simple and very self-explanatory. They also have support ready to assist any client with a question or any kind of any inquiry. The accounts also come with dedicated account managers who are ready to help the client in handling their account.
5. About JP Market funding method?
The company only uses secured methods when sending money to your account. They take it upon themselves to make sure that the method they use fully complies with the regulatory procedures to ensure the safety of your money. You can deposit via bank, online getaways or ATM. All these security measures are so that no client can lose their money while trading with them. JP Market also offers weekly deposits to their client's account and they have accounts with all major banks across South Africa.
6. Take a look at their trading instruments
JP Market uses trades and stocks as its financial instruments. They believe that these two are the life bond of a good financial institution. They ensure that they have the right trades and stock so that they can flourish. Which means you will also flourish together with them. The company also has its own financial service provider or FSP license and they are also approved by the forex trading board in South Africa.
7. The Trading Platform Offered in JP Market
JP Market uses the very friendly Meta Trader or the MT4 trading platform. This kind of platform is also available via mobile devices and tablets. This means you do not a desktop or a laptop computer to trade. This platform,also provides real-time assistance to their clients whenever they need it. This is indeed a value added benefit of choosing JP Market as your forex broker. With this kind of forex trading platform you can be sure to never miss out on trading despite your location.
JP Market has a lot to offer anybody who is willing to join or grow in the forex trading world. They have training for those who are new to this industry. Indeed JP Market is a good forex broker.


text:
Today I wore my favorite jeans to class and I also ran a few errands. This was my first pair of ripped jeans and they have the perfect amount of elastic! I bought this top years ago and acquired this necklace from my mom's closet the same year. Lastly, I bought this bag along with my last post's purchases.
Striped Tank Top | Burlington
Gold Necklace | Kohl's
Ripped Jeans | Ross, American Eagle
Brown Cardigan | Forever 21
Sunglasses | Polette
Sunglasses | Polette
Black Boots | Ross
Black Bag | Cato's


text:
Here's a science experiment for kids that:
- takes less than 2 minutes to prepare
- costs absolutely nothing, and
- is dead-easy to do.
This is perfect for parents who are busy with work or chores, but want to spend quality time with kids, while the latter learns.
Question...How many times have you thought of an educational activity to do with your child, but simply never followed through with it?
Remember that seedling you wanted to nurture with your child to teach her about nature and science?
Probably never happened because running to the store to get seedlings and watering it daily seemed too much in your already busy schedule.
But what if I showed you how EASY this 2-ingredient Science experiment is? Would you do it now?
Now let's start... and welcome:
Oobleck: Water and Cornstarch Fun
What the heck is an oobleck? It's actually the name of a sticky substance taken from Dr. Seuss' book: Bartholomew and the Oobleck.
(Geeky) Science Stuff:
Cornstarch mixed with water, or oobleck, behaves both like a liquid and solid, depending on what is done to it.
If you apply pressure, say by continuously moving a ball-shaped oobleck from your hands, it stays a ball. But the minute you let it rest on your palm, it quickly "melts", losing its form, and running like liquid.
Why? According to Science Bob, cornstarch grains "lock-up" whenever pressure is applied. This means that if you quickly tap on oobleck, your fingers will meet a hard surface. (You and your child will experience this soon.) Now, if you feel your child won't understand the explanation behind oobleck's odd behavior, it's okay. Just carry on, explain anyway, and have fun.
Let's start so you can experience how cool this experiment is1 cup of cornstarch, 1 glass of water, a large bowl (That's it!!!)
Procedure: add water to the cornstarch slowly and mix
Questions to ask your kiddo throughout the science experiment
- What happens when you "slap" the oobleck's surface? (Does it behave like water and splash around?)
- Is it solid or liquid? (Solids usually hold their shape while liquids don't. Explanation can be found here under the background section.)
- What happens when you place a blob of oobleck on the table and poke it after a minute? How does it behave?
- What happens when your child dips his finger into the oobleck and slowly moves them around the bowl? What happens if he moves them faster?
- What happens when you throw an oobleck ball in the air? (Does it retain its shape or not?)
So, try this now! Not later, not tomorrow, not next week. Now.
It's one of the best sensory experiments you'll ever do. And clean-up is a breeze! All you need it water.
Warning: Send the oobleck into the trash instead of the sink. If you dump it in the latter, it may cause the sink to clog.
Photo credit: Dr. Seuss from Wikipedia
I would like to thank Anne of Green Eggs & Moms for sharing this AWESOME and EASY experiment for kids and parents to enjoy with almost no preparation! Lorrie


text: I have been enjoying my iPad running 3.2.2 so much I decided to share the joy and picked up 2 iPods as xmas gifts for family members. I've had the iPad since Canadian launch day and used it primarily for work, in a pristine state plus work related apps only, until late November when I had some time to researh other possibilities and work up the courage to act. Since then, the utility of my unit has expanded in amazing ways. I'm looking for ideas on how best to setup the new units to manage content. I'm thinking I'd prefer a single itunes setup/account from which I am hoping to select what sync's to which device based on individual choice. Is this possible and what other considerations/recommendations should I keep in mind to maximize ease, enjoyment and functionality? With thanks!


text:
Improving the customer experience is generally accepted as a must-have practice these days; however, many businesses still do not conduct qualitative user research! At least not in a structured, methodical way that is tied to reporting to show a return on design investment. If leadership is pushing back on spending budget for UX research, read on for ideas on how to push back.
Familiar Scenario?
Client: We're not getting enough traction for our [Product or Service]. We'd like to bring in some usability expertise and potentially overhaul the UI. Can you help?
Us: Sure. We can get started right away. Do you mind sending over your user personas?
Client: Oh. Personas. Yeah. We've heard of those, but we've never done them.
Us: Oh. Why is that?
Client: Well, we've thought about it, but it's kind of a waste of time because we already understand our customers.
Us: Sure. That makes sense. You've been working in this space for 20 years, but let me ask, does _everyone_ in your organization understand who your customer is? What about all those new sales people who are onboarding right now?
Client: True. But it seems really expensive and time consuming. We just need a new front page on the Web site. Just a fresher look. Maybe we could use FLAT design.
Us: Flat is the new black, isn't it? But if we don't understand our end-users, how will we know what's important to them?
Client: I don't want them to dictate our designs. After all, customers don't know what they want until they see it.
Us: All valid points. But there are techniques, and not even all that costly, with which we can get a good, quick understanding of your customers so we, and your organization, can better empathize with them and better meet their needs.
Client: Sounds great, but…
and so it goes.
Clients can come up with many reasons not to implement processes for conducting qualitative user research. Read on for our push-backs to the top 5 most common push-backs we get:
1. "We Already Know Our Customers"-
It's true. Your company likely wouldn't exist if someone didn't know something about your customers, but more often than not, leadership is hard-pressed to have real empathy for their beloved customers. And by definition, empathy is more than "knowing" the customer by demographics, it's the capacity to be able to say, "I've walked in your shoes." Some executives can truthfully say they've been there, but they may be in positions where they cannot relate to customers' goals, motivations, expectations, and emotional needs anymore.
Industry veterans within an organization will often understand their Customers and we don't want to come across devaluing this important knowledge. So, leverage it, include it your discovery work, but also ask the bigger questions: does the rest of the organization know the end customer? Do the new business development folks? How are we going to get the rest of the organization to align on who our customers are?
2. "Qualitative User Research is Really Expensive"
While it's true that things like site visits, transcription services, and incentives all cost money, making assumptions can turn out to be far more costly when those assumptions are wrong.
The idea that user research has to be expensive is also simply not true anymore. There are lots of ways to do user research on the cheap. Start by analyzing user-generated data the client already has to identify user groups and behavior patterns. Once you've established some groups, you really only need to interview 5-10 individuals to get a pretty good idea of their characteristics. Recruit from your client's current user base instead of contracting expensive recruiting services. You can hack together your own usability testing laboratory without spending a lot of money.
We recommend developing a matrix of user research activities that displays the cost and the value associated with each method. This way, the client empowered to choose how they spend their budget.
3. "Takes Too Long – We'll Do It Later"
Just like you don't have to spend a bunch of money to do great user research, you don't have to spend a lot of time either. There are plenty of quick-and-dirty approaches you can utilize. Again, a matrix displaying the time cost versus value of various activities is a great tool to communicate the trade-offs with your client.
Also, "later" often means "never."
4. "Customers Don't Know What They Want Until They See It" and "We Don't Want Them To Dictate Our Design Thinking."
This is only true when decision-makers can legitimately lay claim to Genius Design; that is, they can just create, their ideas always work, and the world-over adopts their products and services. There are many who think they can, but very few actually do.
The real tragedy here is that when we don't get out of the office and socialize our ideas to garner feedback, we miss opportunities to find inspiration for additional innovation. Humans are pretty creative and discovering how they find workarounds in their own environments leads us to find real problems. Real problems lead to real solutions.
5. "Our Product/ Service Is Brand New – We Don't Have Users Yet"
Start-ups folly in this area frequently; however, this is probably the best time for implementing user research, as getting it right the first time makes all the difference. If you haven't set up processes to observe and understand how your customers respond to your product, how do you know if you're meeting a real need; that is, you're solving a real problem.
Additionally, if you haven't put an emphasis on improving the customer experience from the outset, you risk damaging your fledgling brand. Look at it this way: if your product is not received well in the market as long as you're trying to improve it by seeking customer feedback, unless you're creating something toxic to the environment or people, users will likely give you some grace. And if you're attempting to solve a real problem, they'll surely want to see you succeed.
If All Else Fails, Get Subversive
Sometimes, no matter what, decision-makers are just not going to invest in empathy building exercises. So, just do it and call it something different, "Having a meeting with customer service" "Showing {insert non-team member name} this idea" "Calling customer Jane Doe to answer questions about the product." And then just ask some pointed questions to get good feedback.
Having empathy for your customers is foundational to killer UX. The way this is developed is by getting in the field and experiencing it – hearing it, seeing it, feeling it, for yourself. When you can bring this information into the boardroom, it moves leadership to deeper understanding. Sometimes just getting a sampling of this is all they need. So, go out (without breach of course) and see how you can bring the voice of the customer in the design process.
Bottom line, don't be dismayed. Change is tough and doing things that are seemingly new sends signals of the risk, but squelching fear is simply a matter of building understanding.
What are some of the most common push-backs you've received to user research? How did you respond? We'd love to hear about your experiences.