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You won't be dazzled
(PG-13) Paramount (122 min.)
Directed by Matthew Vaughn. With Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Rupert Everett. Opens Friday at theaters throughout New Jersey.
We live in a world without happily-ever-afters. And so, more and more, our movies provide them.
Whether it's the fairy tales with a wink of "Shrek" and "Happily N'Ever After," the literary legends of "The Lord of the Rings" and "King Arthur" or the magical heroics of Harry Potter and the upcoming "The Golden Compass," Hollywood films revel in that once-upon-a-time feel of dastardly villains and true-hearted heroes.
If we can no longer tell our children that everything always works out -- well, at least our movies can.
The latest in this parade of rousing bedtime stories is "Stardust," an adaptation of the graphic novel from cult favorite Neil Gaiman. In it, a boy seeking to woo a girl vows to bring her back a fallen star. When he travels into the magical country it's plummeted into, however, he finds not a meteorite but a rather cranky young woman. And the beginning of a long string of problems.
She, it seems, has no interest in traveling back with him just to impress his girlfriend. And two separate villains -- one a vain witch, the other an unscrupulous prince -- have their own reasons for not wanting her to leave.
Like its heroine -- who shines when she's happy -- "Stardust" has bursts of charm. Gaiman's story -- which interweaves all sorts of fairy-tale requisites, from long-lost heirs and immortality potions, to shape-shifting spells and slashing swordfights -- is sweetly and cleverly done. There are also some fine sets, including a witches' palace hung with magic mirrors and a marketplace bursting with strange creatures.
Among those strange creatures are some of the movie's guest stars. Michelle Pfeiffer, busy again after a long absence, has great fun as the wicked witch willing to do anything to keep her appearance eternally youthful. And Rupert Everett is fine as the evil prince, finally getting a chance to play the blackguard on screen he's voiced through the last two "Shrek" movies. (More odd than anything else is Robert De Niro, here showing up as a swashbuckling pirate with a New York accent and a deeply closeted secret.)
But a movie about a star should have starry actors in its lead roles. And there, "Stardust" fails to glow
The young Charlie Cox, for example, is fine in his early scenes as a young, put-upon shop boy. But this is, like so many fantasies, the story of a boy becoming a man through a perilous quest -- and Cox doesn't seem measurably more mature at the end of the film than at the beginning. Claire Danes, meanwhile, is far too earthbound to be a literally ethereal creature; moments that need to be mercurial come off as merely moody.
Pfeiffer is still fun of course -- with her character's determination to turn back the clock turning into a witty comment on all things Hollywood. And there's a fine climax, with a huge witches' castle, plenty of swordfights, some meddling ghosts and an explosion of magical curses and eye-catching special effects that make the finale of the most recent Harry Potter film pale by comparison.
But in this happily-ever-world of popular culture, a new fairy tale has to discover its own monsters, its own weirdness, its own wonder. And there the movie falters. These sort of movies need to hold up an enchanted mirror in which we see ourselves. Look deeply into "Stardust" and all you see is a slightly diluted "Princess Bride," and a happily-ever-after you've seen a dozen times before.
Ratings note: The film contains violence.
Stephen Whitty may be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com or (212) 790-4435


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NEW Amy Tangerine Better Together
Capture joyful life moments with Better Together, the new everyday collection by Amy Tangerine featuring her signature watercolor style and handwritten words and quotes. Bold patterns and graphics are presented in eye catching, playful hues of blue, red, yellow, orange and pink. Add an element of fun with products that feature florals, food items, bikes and more, Amy Tangerine Better Together.
NEW Crate Paper Little You
Capture your baby's first precious moments with Little You by Crate Paper. Celebrate lullabies and first words in soft hues of blush, baby blue, gold and yellow. Document all those precious firsts with Crate Paper Little You, beautiful chipboard pieces, stickers, and countless other coordinating embellishments. Complete your cute collections with patterned papers, ephemera and themed paper pads.
NEW Stephanie Ackerman Coloring Planner by Adornit
Stephanie Ackerman Documented Faith Planner. The ADORNit Coloring Planner combines your love of coloring with the need to organize your life. Beautiful hand drawn illustrations on the cover along with coordinating 12 month illustrated dividers provide endless coloring possibilities.
NEW Salvaged Collection
The Salvaged Collection features junkyard and nostalgia inspired treasures. The perfect start for home decor projects and much more.
A calendar, chalkboard and thick plexi glass sheet!
NEW DieVersions
DieVersions, Dynamic designs, cuts like a charm. A new Southwestern release with prickly cactus and cowboy boots ready to die cut with your favorite papers. Thin steel dies made in the USA and ideal for card making, scrapbooking and creative projects. DieVersions dies cut easily and are 10 percent off everyday.

subset: commoncrawl


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Bargain Basement Beauty: Create This Necklace Under $25
Can You Design a Necklace for Under $25?
Of course you can! The real challenge is to design something for that amount that looks like it came from a pricey boutique–or Stringing magazine. Danielle Fox, Elizabeth Murray, and I all took the challenge for the Spring 2009 issue. I had so much fun, I decided to make a second "under $25" necklace just for Beading Daily.
Big Mistake?
For this necklace, I did something you probably shouldn't do if you're on a tight budget: I fell in love. With a bead, of course, or more precisely, with a pendant. When I saw the green and lavender porcelain pendant by Chinook Jewelry Designs, I decided I had to have it. And then, because I'm challenge-addicted, I decided I would buy it and still stick to my $25 budget. I wanted to prove that it was possible to include a one-of-a-kind handcrafted element in a design if you economized in other areas. (And I did prove it–see my costs below!)
Here are two more things I learned:
- Consider cuts/shapes/sizes, not just bead type
If you have your heart set on certain gemstones, look at a variety of sizes and shapes. I found that faceted gemstones tended to be more expensive than smooth ones (though not always). Also, smaller beads are not necessarily cheaper!
- Watch your metal prices
You may decide to use less expensive metals like brass, copper, or plated silver. Or you may decide, as I did, that you can afford sterling silver for selected elements like a clasp.
The Damage
Here's what my bill looked like:
16" of 2mm jade rounds $4.70
16" of 4mm green aventurine rounds $4.70
16" of silver-plated chain $2.88
3 lavender 6mm glass lentils .42
1 sterling silver 20×6.5mm filigree fishook clasp $3.12
1 porcelain pendant $8
1 silver-plated 10mm bail .04
2 sterling silver twisted crimps .22
6 sterling silver 5mm jump rings .48
Total price does not include beading wire, tax, shipping, minimum purchase requirements, or volume discounts. These are retail prices and don't reflect any special sales or discounts. (Resources are all listed in the project instructions.)
New Free Project:
Sari Sunrise
Michelle Mach
This sweet 3-strand necklace with a handcrafted porcelain pendant won't break the bank!
You can find instructions for my first "under $25" necklace–a brass and amazonite piece with a layered pendant–in the spring 2009 issue of Stringing. You'll also find 12 more "under $25" projects in this issue, plus some additional tips for saving expenses. I absolutely loved taking on this challenge and I hope you do, too!
Challenge Yourself and Win!
If you're up for the challenge of designing on a budget, why not be rewarded for your efforts? The Bead Star contest has an "under $25" category. This is the only contest category that requires receipts (which is a little more work), so I'm betting that fewer people may enter it. Go for it!
Michelle Mach shares free projects every Friday on Beading Daily. If you have comments or questions for Michelle, please post them on the website.


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The New Schools erected on Downham Estate
7 Elementary (or Primary) Schoolsfor 5,816 pupils (now 8 managed by Lewisham Borough and 1 Bromley):
Downham Elementary School No 1, now Rangefield Road School
Downham Elementary School No 2 (School North of tramway), now Downderry Road School.
Downham Elementary School No 3 later Churchdown School
Downham Elementary School No 4 later [Durham Hill School and [|Churchdown School ]], now — Bonus Pastor School (comprehensive school) Roman Catholic school
Downham Elementary School No 5 later Launcelot Road School
Downham Elementary School No 6 later Pendragon School Became a special needs school by the late 1950s.
Downham Elementary School No 7 later Ballamore Primary School (now Merlin Primary School)
Moorside Road School (Roman Catholic School) later
The Good Shepherd School
1 Built by the L.C.C. but provided by the Bromley Corporation.Burnt Ash School, Part of the London Borough of Bromley, but on the Downham Estate
Senior Schools (Apart from the Grammar school and Technical college pupils no children had to leave the estate for their education.)
1 Central school for 800 students Downham Central School
Goudhurst Road
1 Open Air school for 130 demolished Open Air School, Shroffold Road - recently rebuilt for Special Needs - New Woodlands School
Later early years schools added to the Estate were:
Whitefoot Lane Primary School opened later in 1952 now Forster Park School
Downham Nursery School
1 Reserve site — (possibly Malory School erected on this area -8/9/1958).
Times for Elementary Schools
The School Bell, situated like a small dome on the roof of each school was rung each morning and afternoon 10 minutes prior to the official commencement of education.
Infants; Boys and Girls mixed age 5 years to 7 years
9am to midday home for dinner; 2pm to 4pm
Juniors 7 years to 11 years
9am to midday home for dinner, then 2pm to 4.30pm
Seniors 11 years to 14 years as above for times.


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858.395.0153 (Direct)
858.459.4033 (Office)
Referrals have been a large part of Yvonne Mellon's long term success at Willis Allen. Thanks to a diverse client mix, Yvonne has enjoyed a fulfilling career representing the unique needs of both buyers and sellers. Clients have her guarantee that she will personally focus on each transaction from conception to completion. A hands-on management style creates seamless transitions for clients entering a new life cycle. Her solid market knowledge and attention to detail shine through her relaxed manner and fierce work ethic.
Yvonne is proactive and prepares her clients to ensure transactions progress with realistic expectations; a 98% escrow close rate demonstrates this fact. With the support of her clients' introductions to friends and family, she builds on a relationship of trust, creating an environment that can deliver on the dream of home ownership.
Yvonne moved to San Diego from a small Northern California town in 1971 and attended San Diego State University . She has since called San Diego home. Her first La Jolla residence was in the Upper Hermosa neighborhood. A life change took her to the Del Mar Beach Colony for seven years and wedding event coordination at Ranch Valencia Resort. During the market boom and renaissance years she experienced living and selling real estate in downtown's urban Marina District.
Yvonne is fluent in market conditions along San Diego's Coastal Corridor. She would be happy to provide you with a comprehensive and confidential market evaluation of your current home or investment property. Yvonne is a member of the following trade association: National Association of Realtor California Association of Realtors San Diego Association of Realtors and REBA.
nhiller04 | 10/15/2018
Sold a Condo home in 2018 for approximately $800K in La Jolla, La Jolla, CA.
Vonnie assisted us as buyers of this property 10 years ago and as seller this month. She went above and beyond to help us with staging and showing the property as we live in another state. Vonnie also accommodated all of the buyer's requests for access during the transaction. We've never worked with a better, more attentive real estate agent!
gltwitty | 07/11/2017
Sold a Condo home in 2017 for approximately $1.15M in La Jolla, La Jolla, CA.
Yvonne is everything you expect and hope your agent to be when you are selling your property. Beginning with the listing interview to the last closing signature, she, expertly guided us each step of the way through the entire process. (There is a mountain of documents to complete when selling a home in CA). She was there for every showing, inspection, and, I'm sure so many behind the scenes particulars that I'm not aware of, that makes it all seem effortless
I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for an agent with years of experience in the local market, an agent with integrity and an agent that defines the meaning of professionalism.
jheimenz | 09/07/2016
Bought a Single Family home in 2016 for approximately $2.725M in Mission Hills, San Diego, CA.
Yvonne was really knowlegeable of the local market. We were having trouble finding the right house, and she was able to find one that had previously been listed that I would have never had access to otherwise.
jlawren2 | 09/17/2015
Bought a Condo home in 2014 for approximately $575K in Pacific Beach, San Diego, CA.
Yvonne was extremely helpful throughout my home buying experience. She exceeded my expectations insofar as ease of communication, availability, and knowledge in all areas relevant to my home purchase.
She is consistently upbeat and positive while remaining realistic and pragmatic. I never had any reason to doubt her judgement when assessing potential properties, financing, or any other aspect of my home purchase. For instance, Yvonne was more than willing to go out of her way to expedite the process in coordinating communication between absentee owners and a seemingly endless host of contractors, escrow people and others that were part of the purchase process.
In short, it would be hard to imagine a more pleasant home buying experience than the one Yvonne made happen. I highly recommend Yvonne Mellon.
keys0 | 09/17/2015
Sold a Single Family home in 2007 in La Jolla, La Jolla, CA.
Yvonne's market knowledge and attention to detail are second to none! Highly recommend her! A seamless transaction every time. She has both listed and sold property for me, and every time very successfully.
tj5939 | 09/16/2015
Bought a Townhouse home in 2000 in Mission Beach, San Diego, CA.
Yvonne is truly one of the best "realtors" we've encountered. I joke about how I think we were probably her longest client. It took MANY years from when we first started with yvonne for my husband to find the perfect vacation home in San Diego. Most realators would have given up but Yvonne treated us with the same respect, work ethic and professionalism from the first day to the final day. Over this time period Yvonne continued to send my husband listings, take him on numerous showings year after year SEVERAL times a year and all with such a positive and hardworking attitude.
What I think that stands out most to us about Yvonne is her professionalism, classy attitude and work ethic. It seems like so many people now a days think that things should just fall into their lap and they have this entitlement attitude. This is definitely NOT Yvonne. Yvonne comes from a sales perceptive of work hard and treat your clients/ people with the upmost respect.
In the real estate industry I feel this type of attitude and HARD WORK ethic is definitely lacking. Yvonne stands out from the "stereotypical" realtors and is why we trust her and we will buy and sell all of our property purchases business or personal with her.
Sue Cox | 09/16/2015
Bought a Condo home in 2009 for approximately $1.575M in La Jolla, La Jolla, CA.
My husband and I are longtime real estate brokers in Texas, but when we decided to buy a 2nd home in La Jolla Yvonne Mellon walked us expertly through the process. Texas and California forms are quite different. The San Diego market is unique. Yvonne's professional guidance was invaluable! She found us the home of our dreams, negotiated the best price, and found the perfect lender to make it all possible! Her expertise in California real estate, along with the way she truly cares about her clients, makes her the realtor we depend upon even after the sale. We would not use anyone but Yvonne Mellon!
smith2252 | 09/15/2015
Sold a Condo home in 2012 in La Jolla, La Jolla, CA.
Yvonne was the listing agent for the successful sale of my La Jolla condominium, and helped find and arrange a rental for temporary use. I will use her as my listing agent if and when I sell my current home.


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Avocados are sold hard and unripe, so you need to wait a few days before they are soft and ready to use. If you need a ripe avocado before they are ready, you can use your microwave to simulate the ripening process so they will be ready for immediate use. The California Avocado Commission does not recommend microwave-ripening of avocados, so try to purchase yours two to five days before you will need them. The flavor of the avocado will be affected by microwaving instead of natural ripening.
Poke holes all over the avocado with a fork.
Place the avocado on a paper towel.
Put the avocado and paper towel in the microwave.
Set the microwave to medium heat.
Cook the avocado in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Remove the avocado from microwave and let it cool until it is comfortable to touch.
Squeeze the avocado in your hand to check for softness. The avocado should still feel firm, but you should be able to press into it when gently squeezed.
Place avocado back in microwave and cook for another 30 seconds until soft if necessary.


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Answers to some seemingly common Java questions
Whenever I go through the Keyword Analysis page of Statcounter, which manages my blog web usage statistics for me, I see a bunch of Java questions which I can answer. However the page that people land on to never has the relevant answer to the query. With my recent Repetitive Stress Injury I am pretty much staying away from doing any more work than is required to help my hands heal faster. This is keeping me from working on my Google Talk programs. So, having nothing better to do I am going to try and answer some of the questions or searches that I saw coming to my blog.
Search Keywords: Java printStackTrace does not show line number
Happens if the classes that are part of the stack trace have not been compiled with the debugging option (-g) on. Here's the link for details on javac's options. The solution is to re-compile the classes with this option on and then recreate the exception. If it is not code you can build then there is not much you can do here unfortunately - you will have to analyze the code to figure out where it went wrong. Not having debug information while compiling usually also means that you won't get any local variable information while debugging in a JPDA debugger (to be complete precise that would mean that the -g:vars option has not been specified).
Search Keywords: how can i tell what caused a concurrentmodificationexception?
A ConcurrentModificationException happens if a java.util.Collection is modified while an Iterator is iterating over it. There are many ways you can end up doing this - I am going to try and list the situations that I believe are most common.
Disclaimer: Code snippets do not use generics which won't make any difference anyway.
1.] Listeners
Consider this listener interface -
1 public interface XYZListener {
2 void eventOccurred(Event evt);
3 }
and this implementation -
4 public class XYZListenerImpl.java {
5 public void eventOccurred(Event evt) {
6 evt.getEventSource().removeXYZListener*this);
7 // do something useful
8 }
9 }
where Event.getEventSource() returns the object against whict XYZListenerImpl's instance was registed as a listener.
Now, you will get a ConcurrentModificationException if the EventSource is implemented this way -
10 public class EventSource {
11 private List listeners = Collections.synchronizedList(new LinkedList());
12 public void addXYZListener(XYZListener l) {
13 if (!listeners.contains(l))
14 listeners.add(l)
15 }
17 public void removeXYZListener(XYZListener l) {
18 listeners.remove(l);
19 }
21 protected void fireEvent(Event evt) {
22 for (Iterator iter = listeners.iterator(); iter.hasNext();) {
23 XYZListener listener = (XYZListener)iter.next();
24 listener.eventOccurred(evt);
25 }
26 }
27 }
This is going to cause a ConcurrentModificationException at line 24 (assuming that there are more than one listeners registered and XYZListenerImpl is not the last one ;-)) because in line 6 the listeners List is modified while it is being iterated over in EventSource.fireEvent's Iterator.
The solution in this case is to use the right pattern for firing events -
2.] Incorrect coding
protected void fireEvent(Event evt) {
List clonedList = new ArrayList(listeners);
for (Iterator iter = clonedList.iterator(); iter.hasNext();) { // [19 Dec] edited - thanks to Anon comment
XYZListener listener = (XYZListener)iter.next();
try {
} catch(Exception ex) {
// this prevents one bad listener from preventing the event from going to others
// log the exception
This will cause a ConcurrentModificationException -
public void someMethod(List l) {
for (Iterator iter = l.iterator(); iter.hasNext();) {
Object o = iter.next();
if (someCondition()) {
Fix this by using Iterator.remove() instead of doing a list.remove()
3.] Concurrency
The trickiest one is when the Collection gets modified by another thread while it is being iterated upon. One solution is to clone the collection (e.g. new ArrayList(list)) and then iterate upon it. To find out where the List got modified -
- Create a wrapper List similar to Collections.SynchronizedList which delegates all methods to the enclosed List.
- In the add/remove and any other method that modifies the List dump the current Thread's stacks using Thread.dumpStack. Refer to this. I suggest printing the current timestamp and the Thread's id for easy collating and the List's hashCode() to identify operations against each List instance.
- When you get the ConcurrentModificationException print the List's hashCode and look for the last print from the List modification logs for a list of this hashCode and you should know which two threads are the "culprits".
Search Keywords: how do you add a print statement ever 5 minutes in java
This is quite easy. Create a java.util.Timer class and add a TimerTask and set it to fire every 5 minutes and write the print statements in the TimerTask.
Search Keywords: using ethereal to capture google talk
This is not really possible after TLS is set up as I discussed in the comments here. Google Talk mandates TLS and once the stream gets encrypted the whole point of that is to not be able to sniff out the contents using something pretty much like Ethereal.
There are a couple of other interesting queries that I have not taken up
what are some things that made java so popular?
java 5 why
(I would say - Generics)
why isn't java used for games
(I really don't know if it is or it is not used for games and what kind of games?)


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Come join and link up your Pinterest inspired projects. Make sure you credit where you got the idea and have fun! This is a great place to get inspired and to inspire others!
Since we are almost done with our last bottle of laundry soap and I am trying to make more of my own cleaners this year I decided to set out and gather the ingredients for DIY laundry soap. It was way cheaper than I thought it would be and that made me one happy momma! I scoured the Internet for all different types of laundry soap until I found one which I felt would best suit my families needs. I have a tomboy 10 year old daughter who is always climbing in trees and running around outside getting full of dirt, grime, and grass stains. I also have a very busy 3 year old boy who gets into everything possible from food, paints, markers, and anything else you can imagine. The best recipe I found was on a blog called Being Creative to Keep my Sanity. She seems to have the same issues with kids getting messy :) There are many other recipes I found as well, Tip Nut seems to have the most variety for different laundry soap recipes. I prefer powder detergent so that cut my list down dramatically. You can see there are many more for liquid soap than there are for the powder version.
1 - 3lb 7oz Box of Arm & Hammer Washing Soda $3.24
1 - 4lb 12oz Box of Borax $3.38
1 - 2lb Box of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda $1.19
2 - Sun Oxygen Cleaner (off brand OxiClean) $3.92
3 - Fels Naptha Soap Bars $2.91
Total Cost: $14.64
I found all these items at WalMart in the laundry section except for the baking soda. That I found in the baking isle. You will notice in my recipe I only used 2 lbs of baking soda where as the one I was referenced called for 4 lbs. Honestly, my WalMart didn't have the 4 lb box and from everything I read the baking soda is mainly to help if you have hard water or well water which we have neither so instead of skipping it altogether I decided to just use half of what she called for. Also, if you are not brave like me you can half this or reduce it for your trial.
Just to give you an idea of how much this recipe makes when I placed the soap in my containers they yielded 7.5 quarts. That is a lot of soap! To try and figure the cost it got a little tricky. I have no way of really knowing how many loads I will get out of them other than to do a google conversion into tablespoons. That means there are 480 TBS in 7.5 quarts. Each load will only require 1-2 TBS depending on the size and filth of the load. Since I know my family will make messes I will estimate 300 loads meaning more often than not I will probably use 2 TBS. That means $0.05 per load! Definitely a money saver and it takes less than 30 minutes to make!
Here's a little comparison for you:
Tide Original Powder, 80 loads 116-ounce: $21.99 or $0.27/load
Gain Original Powder, 150 load 172-ounce: $30.99 or $0.21/load
Cheer BrightClean Powder, 120 loads 169-ounce: $33.17 or $0.28/load
Arm and Hammer Powder, 100 loads 6.61 lbs: $16.94 or $0.17/load
That's enough for me to spend 30 minutes making laundry soap! Here is how you make it:
- Use a hand held grater (the finest one) to get your soap into the consistency of shredded cheese.
|It should look like this...pretty much like cheese, but don't eat it LOL
- You will need a large 5 gallon bucket to do the rest. I forgot to pick one up so I enrolled my husband to help me mix it in a garbage bag. Just dump everything in and mix well. It's really that easy!
|Mixed powder laundry soap
- Once everything is fully mixed you will need to transfer the soap into containers. I had some old containers we used for snacks and cereal in the past with a screw top so I know they will stay closed tightly. I also saved one of the Oxygen containers for easy transport to the laundry facility (we are in an apartment and don't have our own right now).
|Laundry Soap Containers...one with scoop and for ease of transporting
I did not use any vinegar or other rinse aid with my initial loads, but most likely will add some sort of pretty smells in the future. You can always add fabric softener or vinegar to your rinse cycle, downy ball, or fabric softener compartment if you wish. The true test to me was whether or not the clothes would come out stain free, odor free, and just overall clean. I am thinking I will add essential oil scented vinegar for the pretty smells :)
I know there are lots of questions out there about making your own laundry soap. And I wish I had the answer for everyone. I found a great FAQ section HERE. If you still can't find your answer feel free to ask me and I will do my best to answer any questions you have.
I am hoping this is a sign of good things to come, but as with everything else in life you need to find what works for your family. If you have hard water you will want more baking soda. If you have allergies or sensitivities only use what you know will not irritate your skin. Test small amounts and play with it until you find what works for you.
Don't forget to find My Road to Savings on facebook and twitter!


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Eustacia Cutler sat at a piano, practicing Bach. Her daughter, Temple Grandin, was on the floor - lost in her
own world. Lost inside her 2 /2-year-old mind.
Temple couldn't talk and refused to communicate. She started humming, crumpling a newspaper. Squeezing. Shredding. Tossing. Staring blankly as the pieces floated to the ground. Jagged fragments. Isolated and alone. Mental debris. Destined for the trash can.
Cutler stopped playing, trying to get her daughter to engage, trying to get some love. That was the hardest part of having an autistic child, not feeling a shred of love, not feeling like a mother.
"See the bright colors?" she said to her daughter.
Temple sat there, unable to climb out from behind those numb, baby blue eyes.
Frustrated and afraid, unsure what to do, Cutler started playing again. And Temple started humming.
Back in the late 1940s, when Temple was a child, her doctor called it infant schizophrenia. It was a rare disorder, affecting one in 10,000 children. Many were sent to an institution, locked up, discarded.
Today, the same thing is called autism. It affects 1 in 150 children. It's more common in boys, affecting 1 in 94.
Through love and determination, not to mention the help of some amazing teachers, Cutler pulled her child out from behind those baby blue eyes. "I was going to pull her to me," Cutler said. "I was going to pull her into the world with me."
And Temple grew up to be a remarkable success story - the poster child for autistic achievement.
"Temple Grandin has been known for years in the autism community," said Dr. Colleen Allen, the director of the Henry Ford Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Detroit. "She is an example of a person who can go through this life with this kind of disability and really make it."
But it was Temple's mother who was behind the scenes, gently pulling her into this world.
Cutler is 82 and lives on New York's Upper West Side. She travels around the country, giving 12 to 15 speeches every year to families with autistic children.
In her speeches - Cutler calls them lectures - she tells families how her daughter grew up. Temple didn't speak until she was nearly 5 but she entered a small country school, where she received individual instruction. "Temple was mainstreamed at 5," Cutler says. "But we didn't call it that back then."
Cutler tells the families how Temple graduated from high school and college, earning a bachelor's degree from Franklin Pierce College, a master's degree from Arizona State University and a doctorate in animal science from the University of Illinois.
She tells the families how her daughter is a professor now at Colorado State University.
She tells the families how Temple became a media darling, appearing on television programs, including "20/20" and NBC's "Today" show. She has been featured in several publications, including People magazine, the New York Times and Time magazine.
She tells the families how her daughter has found peace. She has found herself, found a place in this world.
"Temple is a smart girl who has overcome a severe disability," Cutler says. "What I think is important for people to understand is we are not going to cure autism. What we can do is help our children be fulfilled."
Most of all, she gives the families hope.
Cutler finishes her story and then she waits. Sometimes, she goes to the ladies room and washes her hands slowly. Deliberately. Stalling. Waiting for the approach.
In the quiet, after the crowds have left, they come up to her - parents from the present, asking for advice from a mother who has already gone through the hell.
"They would come up to me privately and tell me, 'Your story is my story,'" Cutler said.
As scientists and researchers debate the cause of autism - Is it genetics? Vaccinations? Pollution? A combination of everything? What? - there is a profound struggle inside the families with an autistic child.
More often than not, it rips apart marriages. Eighty-six percent of the marriages with an autistic child end in divorce, according to Allen.
"Most of these children are raised by single mothers," Cutler said. "In a sense, I was a single mother."
Like so many others, Cutler's marriage ended in divorce. She waited until after her husband's death to write her best-selling book, "A Thorn in My Pocket" (Future Horizons, $24.95).
"I struggled through a marriage where Temple's father wanted her institutionalized and I wouldn't," Cutler said. "Therefore, he went to work to try to prove I was crazy. In those days, in the '50s, he could have succeeded. There was a tremendous feeling against mothers in those days. What people didn't realize was mothers were breaking down."
So she tries to give the parents some inspiration.
"I try to give them an emotional compass," Cutler said. "With that compass, I try to give a simple guideline for what they can expect out of an autistic child."
Cutler said that autistic children will struggle with concepts and context. They struggle to make social connections. And it is important for parents of an autistic child to explain to others that autistic children do not always make eye contact.
"It is hard for these children to look at somebody in the eye," Cutler said. "They don't understand what we are getting from each other. They are not being shifty-eyed. Once you understand that, you can deal with it."
But most of all, she tries to give the parents a simple message: Never give up hope.
"Hope is different than control. It's not Hallmark cards - oh, it's all going to be all right. It's really a bet. You check out the odds, and you place your bet. That's how I describe hope. And I bet on Temple's growth."
Eustacia Cutler has words of wisdom for parents who are raising a child with autism. But parents of any child can heed her advice:
"What do you want for your children? For them to be fulfilled as they would like to be fulfilled. Not your idea or my idea of fulfillment, but theirs."
"Never give up hope. They will find their way."
"Your child will be who your child will be, and you will come to terms with it."
"The more our children are educated, the more they will join the workforce, and be able to manage for themselves, all their lives."


text: It took me a little while to read my coworker, Justin Levy's new book, Facebook Marketing: Designing Your Next Marketing Campaign (amazon affiliate link), but mostly because I'm still on the fence no the value of Facebook as a marketing tool. Justin did a great job of convincing me that I should give it another look, thanks to his work in defining everything clearly with a lot of examples. Even discounting for the bias of working with Justin, I couldn't help but appreciate his view of Facebook, and I learned a lot from the plentiful examples in the book. If you're going to try marketing using Facebook, you'd do well to pick up Facebook Marketing


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Vic Dillinger Presents: My Interview of RoseWrites
David Copperfield Kind of Stuff
So take a moment and tell us more about yourself.
Let's talk about writing some, shall we?
For example, I just wrote a piece on Paw Mane Fin (one of the magazines the InfoBarrel owners put out) about the drastic decline in monarch butterfly populations. The thing is, these butterflies (along with other pollinators, like the honey bee) are the reason we have fruits, nuts, and vegetables to eat.
|Kady on my lap | Boobs drawn on with Pixlr by RoseWrites
Okay, back to your private life.
|Red-ruffed Lemur by Mathias Appel / Public Domain
Lately, I've been designing products on Zazzle. I also enjoy solving things.
[Have ya figured out that danged "meaning of life" crud yet? I'd sure like ta know the answer to that one! =Vic]
Well, here's my take on anything like that: be free to live your own life because people who claim to know what is "best for you" rarely do (including family).
And the hilarious thing is I didn't know who he was (at first).
|Inside Limo by odonovan CC-by-2.0
[Devil woman! =Vic]
Oh yeah, you could say that Vic. I have dated a couple of men at the same time (to the dismay of my friends). I wasn't intending on marrying either of them, so I didn't understand what the big deal was.
I told my friends, "men do this all the time." But still, they dissed me.
Calling On Scientists and Doctors: Fukushima and What Doesn't Add Up [After I extensively researched this disaster, including a piece I wrote on Environment911, I felt compelled to write this wake-up call.]
A: Other than as RoseWrites on InfoBarrel, my work can be found at:
A: Oh that's Biff's fault. Well, okaay, it's my fault for asking him to set up my profile on Squidoo. One day, I mentioned I liked "onesies." Biff asked me, "What's a onesie?" So, I went online and typed in something sloppy like "so . me . . onesies" (I meant to write "show me onesies") and Sousa Baby onesies on Cafe Press came up.
When Biff set up my profile on Squidoo, he assured me I could "always change it later." But I couldn't. After I had written a hundred articles, I read somewhere that I could have changed it (once). By then, though, it was too late.
Truth is, I think "sousababy" sounds like chick that is a total ding dong. When I joined InfoBarrel, I was relieved to finally get a more respectable-sounding pen name. Even though I'm not completely "respectable" (wink).
In Closing
This was a joy to do.
I hope she sticks with us for awhile—in the immortal words of Hannibal Lecter (in reference to not killing Agent Starling), "The world is a more interesting place with you in it."
Hope you mugs enjoyed my interview. Take care.


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13 August 2009
Scallops with garlic roast peppers and green beans
After more than 20 years of spending my summers in this tiny coastal town in MA, the ocean has yet to cease to amaze me. It's so spectacular and ever-changing. I could watch it for hours. Last week, the full moon rose over it bathing us in silver as we went for night swim. I remember when I was little, I was sure one could walk along the path the moon reflected across the water and arrive somewhere magic. (Who am I kidding, I still believe that!) Yesterday, the fog rolled in thick and damp and covered everything so we could only see the waves at the edge. Even the lights of the lighthouse were hidden and only the fog horn blared to warn of the rocks.
One of the best things about being by the ocean is fresh seafood. Rockport is particularly known for its lobster and in the morning you can watch the steady stream of fishing boats heading out to check their traps. You can buy it live or fresh-cooked at the small fish shop in town. But they don't only have fresh lobster. Yesterday, we got a pound and a half of the most succulent scallops I've ever had. I cooked them simply - no need to change the flavor - and served them with garlic roasted peppers and green beans. Then we ate them happily as the sun set and the remarkably still ocean reflected the pink and light blue of the sky.
Serves 3-4
1 1/2 lbs scallops
2 Tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic
2 red peppers
a couple handfuls green beans
4 cloves garlic
olive oil
sea salt
Preheat the oven to 375F/190C. Core, seed and cut the red pepper into slices. Lay on a cookie sheet or in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil. Cook in the oven 10 minutes. In the meantime, snap and wash the green beans. Peel the garlic and cut into halves or quarters. After the peppers have cooked 10 minutes, add the green beans, garlic and salt and cook another 15 minutes or so until the vegetables are tender.
Melt the butter in a frying pan on medium high heat. Add the garlic and scallops. Cook the scallops about 3-5 minutes on each side. They will release water and you'll probably want to drain some towards the end so that they'll brown nicely.
Serve hot and enjoy!
10 comments:
- giz said...
That fog is something else. How jealous am I of people who live in areas where they can get fresh fish practically off the boats. Amazing.
- 14 August, 2009 04:56
- Psychgrad said...
I think I need to plan a trip to a costal area. Hope you're enjoying your visit home!
- 14 August, 2009 23:00
- Sam said...
I think I live in the wrong place, I love seafood but live about as far from the sea as it's possible to get in England!
The lighthouse photo is stunning, the fog is incredible.
- 15 August, 2009 12:04
- Cicero Sings said...
The pictures look so inviting ... the town, even the fog and the food ... mmmm ... love scallops.
- 15 August, 2009 22:02
- Hopie said...
Giz and Psychgrad - It is quite a luxury. You'll have to stop by some summer :-)
Sam - How did you do that? England's an island. It must be hard to be far from the coast!
Cicero - Me too. And the town and ocean are even better in real life than in photos!
- 16 August, 2009 04:08
Sounds wonderful! And those fresh-caught scallops sound amazing. Garlic-roasted peppers might just cure me of my lifelong pepper avoidance!
- 16 August, 2009 19:19
- Sam said...
Well it's a long way from the sea by English satandards! The nearest beach to me is 90 miles away, I would love to live just a bit closer!
- 17 August, 2009 14:57
- Deeba @Passionate About Baking said...
Beautiful pictures Hopie. A lifetime of pleasure...wow! never seen anything like the one with fog! FAB!! You back from practice? Was wondering when you get back?
- 19 August, 2009 14:19
- Hopie said...
Camille - Wow a high compliment coming from you!
Sam - hehe. I bet the farthest point from the sea in the US is about a day and a half's drive instead of an hour and a half ;-) But I definitely understand. Paris is probably about that far from the ocean too but I never get there!
Deeba - Thank you! I'm back in Paris and getting down to business if you want to figure out something for bloggeraid ;-)
- 27 August, 2009 11:34
- Apples and Butter said...
Can I come next summer? I've always wanted to be one of those families that summers somewhere else. Maybe someday!
In your comment on A&B you mentioned you have a birthday coming up? When is it? Mine is coming up as well!
- 28 August, 2009 22:31


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Product Facts
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Behind the Style
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Champagne Style
What makes a vintage?
A vintage champagne is produced from grapes harvested in a single year. Which is why our maisons will only release a vintage champagne in years of absolutely ideal weather and growing conditions and after conducting rigorous tastings both during the harvest and after fermentation.
Extensive ageing adds complexity
Vintage cuvées are more complex than non-vintages and must be aged on lees for at least three years, though our maisons typically cellar theirs for seven years. Dom Pérignon only releases a champagne when it has reached its plénitude, or its ideal expression.


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Remember playing the game "Around the World" on the playground basketball court? Well, the 3 FOR 3 Team Shoot-Out Basketball Tournament is reviving the game and offering $1,500 in scholarships prizes in the process. The tourney will be held on May 17-18 at the San Jose Flea Market.
The registration fee for a team of three is $90 and each player receives a tourney T-shirt. The entry deadline is May 12, 9 a.m. Sign up at 3for3teamshootout.com or call 408.453.1110.
Pop Warner
The West Valley Pop Warner football (ages 7-15) and cheer teams are holding online registration for the coming season at wvpw.com.
For more information, call Ched Fowler at 408.614.6626 or email email@example.com.
Golf for Habitat
A golf tournament to benefit the Silicon Valley Chapter of Habitat for Humanity will be held on May 8 at the Cinnabar Hills Golf Club in San Jose.
A 12:30 p.m. shotgun start will follow an 11 a.m. putting contest and lunch at 11:30 a.m. Dinner and awards will follow the tourney.
Net proceeds from the tournament, sponsored by the Los Gatos, Saratoga and San Jose offices of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, will go toward Habitat for Humanity.
For more information, contact Doug Evans at email@example.com or 408.655.2411 or register at eventbrite.com/e/coldwell-banker-silicon-valley-char ity-golf-tournament-tickets-11001175813.


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Water Features
Water features can bring a whole new dimension to your backyard pool. From something like a simple laminar to a more extravagant feature like a natural waterfall, the concept of moving water attracts attention and gets people talking. By incorporating water features into your poolscape, you'll not only add an artistic element, but more depth and character, as well.
Waterfalls make a classic addition to any pool style and are always popular with children. Our custom designed pool waterfalls offer endless design options – from natural rock waterfalls to flagstone waterfalls and spa spillovers. After seeing our custom waterfall designs you'll soon realize that no two of our pools are the same. We take the time to insure every water fall design is unique, allowing us to give our customers something that no one else has.
Bubblers are fun water features that spout up from shallow pool surfaces like steps and beach entries. When combined with the right aesthetic lighting, they can create striking centerpieces to a variety of swimming pool styles. When placed on a beach entry or tanning deck, they create a fun splash pad for small children and big kids alike.
Deck Jets & Laminars
Deck Jets use air to shoot streams of water from the deck into the pool. Laminars arc across the swimming pool for an elegant and fun addition to your swimming pool. They make for particularly fascinating water features at night when backlit with LED lights. Your kids will love chasing the glowing water!
Create a romantic getaway or a place for pirate's treasure – in your own pool! A grotto uses rock & boulders (natural or man-made) to create a small cave where water runs-off, giving your pool an exotic, tropical element.
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>Fridley environmental meeting
February 13, 2018 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
The Environmental Quality and Energy Commission (EQEC) consists of seven members. The EQEC advises on a broad range of environmental policies and programs and the management of the City's environmental resources. It attempts to provide the City Council with accurate information to assist in making and implementing sound environmental policy in such areas as solid waste abatement programming, environmental education, waste reduction and water resource management. The EQEC consists of seven community volunteers. They meet on a selected Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Fridley Municipal Center.
Members of the EQEC also participate annually in the '49ers Parade to share environmental and recycling information. For questions on the EQEC, please contact the city's environmental planner at (763) 572-3594.


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Introduction to Virtual Reality – what is VR?
Welcome to the Virtual Reality guide.
This website's intent is to introduce you to virtual reality(VR). To answer as many questions as we can on what it is the history and all that's is new in the VR world .
Unless you have been living in the north pole or under a rock for the last few years you have probably heard quite a lot of media hype about VR even if you don't know what it is .
For the non technical readers coming to this site we are going to inform you about the history of virtual reality. Also the definition and what VR will eventually mean to the man on the street. All in a plain and simple way without the need for you to have a computing science degree or the need to learn Klingon.
So what is VR? Virtual reality (VR) is one of the essential products of the evolution of computers. From a device that only receives input from their users. To something that can already adapt to the cues of users to develop an almost life-like experience.
All a bit of a mouth full. But the term was coined by Jason Lanier in 1989. Other people described the concept as cyberspace. Or virtual worlds. And artificial reality. Or even immersive entertainment.
Throughout the years, the concept of VR remains the same. And that is the use of computer technology to develop a simulated 3D world. One that can be manipulated and explored by individuals. All while making them feel as if they are part of that virtual world. Today, VR is already being used in various fields such as medicine, architecture, entertainment, sport, and the arts. But when did Virtual Reality first start?
The Emergence of Virtual Reality.
The idea of Virtual Reality has been around since the 1950s. Cinematographer Morton Heilig imagined a theater experience that could stimulate the senses of his audience. An experience to draw them into his stories in a more effective manner. In 1960 Heilig developed Sensorama. This was a single-user console that included stereo speakers, fans, stereoscopic display, a moving chair, and odor emitters. This allows users to watch television in 3D.
Since then various individuals and companies have tried to develop their own device that can let users experience the virtual world. In 1961 engineers who were working at Philco Corporation had the first head-mounted display (HMD). This device was worn as part of a helmet. It included a tracking system and a video screen. At the time that it was developed, the device was primarily intended to be used in dangerous situations. Moreover, HMD had also been used by helicopter pilots to enable them to have a clear view even while flying in the dark.
Today, HMD is already being used in a variety of applications. Such as in the military, aviation, and government. As well as for commercial purposes including sports, medicine, and video gaming. There are already several affordable HMD devices that individuals can use in various entertainment applications such as playing 3D video virtual reality games.
The Oculus Rift is one of the most awaited Virtual Reality HMDs. It is specifically designed to be used for video games and Virtual Reality simulations. This high field of view HMD is being manufactured by Oculus VR Inc. The Oculus Rift was invented by Palmer Luckey. He has the biggest collection of various HMDs in the world.
Most HMDs differ in their abilities to show Computer Generated Images (CGIs) and display live images from the physical or real world. There are HMDs that can superimpose CGIs on a real-world display. This function is often referred as mixed or Augmented Reality.
Augmented reality (AR) is defined as the indirect or direct and live view of the physical environment. It aims to develop a system where users cannot tell or even see the difference between the virtual augmentation and the real world. Due to its benefits, Augmented Reality is now being used in robotics, military training, engineering design, and manufacturing.
Aside from Heilig and Philco Corporation, computer scientist Ivan Sutherland has also played a significant contribution in the development of Virtual Reality. In 1965 he envisioned Ultimate Display. This allows individuals to look in the virtual world that seems as if it is the physical world that they are living in. Sutherland's vision has served as a guide in the developments that have been made in the VR field.
Sutherland has further improved this development. He created an HMD that was installed in a computer system to provide the needed graphics for the display. This HMD has the capability to showcase images in stereo with an illusion of depth. Since then, Virtual Reality has been developed in several ways. It's even become one of the most recognized products emerging in technology and technological advancement.
Virtual Reality Headset.
Most of the Virtual Environment (VE) systems that are available today are being operated through personal computers. However, these systems need to have a way to show images to users. To address this issue several VE systems are using HMDs. Or a Virtual Reality headset that has no monitors. This VR headset is already being used in playing different kinds of Virtual Reality games.
In fact, several gamers are excited to try the Oculus Rift Virtual Reality headset. Many suggest the use of this headset and the Omni Virtuix treadmill to provide gamers with a more exciting game. The possibilities are limitless when it comes to applying this movement in Virtual Reality.
Types of Virtual Reality.
Window on the World.
This VR system is ideal to be used in the medical field. It can help in performing different kinds if medical visualization procedures such as virtual colonoscopy. Moreover, it can also be used in the stimulation of various medical procedures.
Immersive System.
HMD serves as a better alternative to head tracking system. It gives an immersive experience by removing individuals from the physical world. This system can also provide quality 3D visual images without being expensive. Unfortunately the immersive system is not recommended for use in the medical industry due to its restricted field of view.
In this system, the manipulators and sensors are being controlled and operated by a human using a remote. This has been beneficial in under sea exploration. It is also used in unmanned military vehicles and fire fighter robots.
The field of Virtual Reality is experiencing several challenges. Especially when it comes to developing better tracking systems. Also the need to prevent poor ergonomics. There are also issues about the effect of VR on the psychological well-being of its users. Also in its use in performing various criminal acts.
Virtual Reality provides multiple benefits in various fields. It has help improved the lives of individuals in one way or another. Despite this, most developers of Virtual Environment strive not to overstress the applications of the system. What's important is that Virtual Reality continues to play a role in the development of VR games. And also in the improvement of different training methods that use VR technology.


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The strange and weirdly beautiful terraced pools of Pamukkale (Pummakale) have been appreciated for over two millennia and yet still remain a little known wonder of the world. Thousands of years ago earthquakes, which are common in Turkey, created fractures that allowed powerful hot springs to bring water rich in calcium carbonate to the surface. As the water evaporated the chalky material condensed and formed layer-upon-layer of Travertine and thus slowly built up the walls over time in the same way that a stalactite forms in a cave. Apparently Pamukkale means Castle of Cotton but the Greco-Romans built a town above it called Heirapolis – meaning "Holy City" or "Sacred City". They too recognised it as a rare and important place attributing healing powers to the milky-white waters.The travertine features have their origins in the shifting of a fault in the valley of the Menderes river (between here and Denizli). As the fault shifted, very hot springs with a very high mineral content (notably chalk) arose at this location.
Balkans Floods
4 years ago


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First up are the remaining 4 28mm scaled tanks from the Trenchworx "Tanks in Manchuria" kickstarter - 1 Soviet OT-26 flame tank and 3 Japanese tanks.
I am a big fan of the Trenchworx kits and recommend them highly.
This blog will will contain my rather pedantic ramblings on my experiences within the miniature war gaming hobby. There will be informative how-to's, thrilling battle reports and thought provoking editorials. I fully expect that history will one day view the contents of this blog on par with Homer's Illiad or Newton's Principalia. Or it's a complete waste of time.
Great looking tanks and artillery, Miles! A buddy of mine wanted us to get into the Battle of Nomonhan, and some of these tanks look the part. That Victrix British set is one I wanted to get too, but ended up with Perry RHA. BTW, did you use an airbrush for the tanks?
I Love the tanks. The camo looks excellent.
Wow great set of figures, I have a couple of Japanese tanks to paint, and I love how you have done the camp.
You have been a busy boy haven't you!
Nice work mate


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Elegant Look & Feel Easy to Print Pattern used in letter files is provided separately with options. EPS version PDF files provided separately.
Fonts Used:
1) Myriad Pro – Included in Adobe Creative Suite – or can be purchased here: 2) Impact – System Font comes with windows OS


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One of the key issues of modesty is not drawing attention to yourself but rather drawing attention to your countenance and to Christ. In order to truly be modest, a lady should be revealing Christ in her life, not her body.
1 Pet 3:1-4 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; (2) While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. (3) Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; (4) But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
The lady should be respectful of her husband's wishes. When he is asking her to be modest, she must respect his wishes. In fact, the lady should seek her husband's opinion about modest. She should allow her husband to consider what she is wearing and determine what is or is not appropriate. The husband knows what attracts a man's eye and can help steer the wife away from things that would not be appropriate. Continue reading
Gen 3:1-6 Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? (2) And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: (3) But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. (4) And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: (5) For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. (6) And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
The serpent here was described as subtle. In fact, we know this particular serpent was Satan himself. Someone who is subtle is someone who is sly, who can easily deceive someone. The devil was being subtle to convince Eve to sin. However, in the Word of God, there is another kind of person who is described as subtle:
Prov 7:10 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtle of heart.
When we take the passages we have studied so far and put them together, it becomes easy to imagine how Eve convinced Adam to eat the fruit. True, she was enticed by the devil as he lied to her. However, I can imagine her going to Adam and showing him the fruit. Perhaps winking at him and begging him with her flattering words to eat. Likewise, the harlot is described as subtle of heart. In a previous section, we discussed how the devil often uses women as bait in his snare. The harlot is another kind of woman Satan uses as bait. No one would debate that the harlot is a trap. However, how many other women are walking around with the attire and language of a harlot and do not realize it?
The attire of a harlot includes more than her clothing. Likewise, the attire of a harlot is subtle. If a man is not careful and vigilant, he will quickly be ensnared by her. Once in her snare, his testimony or life could easily be destroyed. Sadly, there are many women walking around us every day who are adorned in the attire of the harlot. If you approached some of these women and accused them of being a harlot, they would be deeply offended. As we will see, many of them unwittingly occupy our churches in every service. So, what is the attire of the harlot?
Prov 7:10-12 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtle of heart. (11) (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house: (12) Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)
The true harlot is clearly dressed in a certain way. She reveals her body in a way that it intended to attract a customer. The harlot is also acting in a very specific way and she is speaking a specific way. We understand why she is dressed the way she is, but why is she acting and talking the way she does? For the same reason: she is advertising what she has to offer. She is advertising her product and setting a trap for a man. Is the man who takes the bait without guilt? Of course not! If a man takes her bait, he is guilty, but she has set a trap for him! Likewise, a woman who has adorned herself in the attire of a harlot has also set a trap for a man. Sadly, she may not even realize it.
The harlot is dressed in a certain way, and she dresses that way so that she can sell her product. She is dressed to show off her product – her body. She knows that most men are drawn in by their eyes. When men see the body of an attractive woman, men are naturally excited and drawn to her. At the site of an attractive woman's body, a man is tempted to sin. Everyone with any common sense knows this. Every woman wants to be considered attractive. Who is she trying to attract? The way a woman is clothed certainly reveals whether she is concerned with attracting men or not. However, there is more to the attire of a harlot than the clothes she is (or is not) wearing. As we learned already, she is subtle. In other words, she is a flirt. She is the one who is always talking and drawing men to her with her actions and words. Yes, it is immodest to be a flirt and a harlot is also a flirt! The harlot is also loud. She wants you to know she is there. The harlot is also stubborn. In fact, most immodest women will refuse to admit these simple truths are a part of who they are!
1 Cor 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
The harlot is dressing in a certain way because she has something to sell. However, as Christians, we have nothing to sell. We have already been purchased by the Blood of Christ! Our bodies are not our own to do with as we please. As Christians, we belong to God. We cannot do as we wish, we are to glorify God with our bodies. The Apostle Paul referred to himself as a servant (Rom 1:1). Literally, Paul was referring to himself as a man who is so indebted to another that he would be considered to be a slave. When a Christian exposes her body or acts as a harlot does, she is not glorifying God in any way! When a woman acts in this way, she is merely advertising what she has to sell.


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PONTE VEDRA — The state's oldest golf tournament starts today with an unusual twist. In the 136-man field there may be 136 potential champions.
Or as Winter Park's David Boesel said, ''It's wide open without Knapp.''
Tom Knapp of North Palm Beach is the tournament's two-time defending champion. But he is having surgery Friday on his injured right wrist, causing his withdrawal from the 68th Florida State Golf Association amateur championship.


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Check out the latest from Lions of Liberty!
In this episode of the Lions of Liberty Podcast, I welcome in Michael Minardi, a criminal defense attorney based out of Florida who specializes in defending clients against prosecution for using cannabis for medical purposes. Michael describes how he first began to see the hypocrisy in drug laws and their enforcement as a teenager, and how that led him to pursue a career in defending people against drug prosecutions. Michael and I discuss the case of Jesse Teplicki, who Michael successfully defended in court after he was arrested for growing marijuana at his home in order to aid him in dealing with his anorexia nervosa. Michael explains the federal government's hypocrisy on medical cannabis, the hostility faced from judges and prosecutors for defending medical cannabis patients, and why he feels the jury's decision to acquit Jesse Teplicki is not a case of jury nullification. As fans of the Lions of Liberty Podcast might expect, I have a rant of my own to close out the show.


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"The programme enabled me to explore some of my reservations about executive leadership and realise that it is possible to take the next step without conforming to stereotypes. I feel excited at the prospect of doing that. It's really boosted my confidence, helped me think about the type of leader I'd like to be, and to identify gaps where I can develop." 2016/17 participant
Leadership Beyond One School is an executive leadership programme like no other. Designed exclusively for female leaders looking to develop in executive leadership, the programme offers the chance to explore how to be an executive leader in a way that is consistent with your personal values and beliefs. It is open to serving heads, executive heads and other executive leaders working beyond one school.
Now in its second year and fully funded from the NCTL Leadership Equality and Diversity Fund, the programme:
A full programme outline and session dates are available below.
Registration for our 2017/18 programme is closed. If you would like to register your interest for next year, please email email@example.com.
Participants must fulfil the following requirements:
*The focus of breakfast seminars 2-5 will respond to participant self-evaluation and need. Last year's seminars included:


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Organic Nation TV Finishes East Coast Tour
Organic Nation TV host Dorothee Royal-Hedinger and camera man Mark Andrew Boyer have been traveling the country visiting sustainable farmers and providers, and getting a sense of the "sustainable food landscape." Organic Nation TV just completed their east coast tour. The tour started in New York City and went to Darien, Conn.; New Haven, Conn.; Boston, Mass.; Portland, Maine; Unity, Maine; Burlington, Vt; and Waitsfield, Vt, to name a few. Before this, they completed a west coast tour and midwest tour. See where Organic Nation TV has already been. Organic Nation TV is found on Changents, a social networking site for environmental and other activists.
Organic Nation TV Tour
Dorothee and Mark visited organic farmers and providers along the way learning how small farmers get started, how they get the financing to buy equipment, and whether they own the land that they farm on. She learned about green house gardening and how that's becoming a means for small farmers to produce sustainable foods year round.
Dorothee visited the first certified organic roof top garden located in Chicago on top of Uncommon Grounds restaurant to see how urban environments are growing local produce. The garden is all grown in 12 inches of soil which isn't a lot, but it's enough for most plants. They also do planting in earth boxes, which irrigates the soil through a reservoir in the bottom of the planter, so they use half of the water.
More on Local Foods:
Eating Local Food: The Movement, Locavores and More
Earthtalk: Why Eat Locally?
How to Go Green: Eating


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Angels Ladies in just their second competitive season have reached the final of the Kent FA Divisional Women's Cup Final to be played at the Gallagher Stadium, Maidstone on Thursday 17th May with a 7:30pm kick off.
With Thamesview pipping the Angels to the league title there will be plenty to play for and a very enthralling game of Ladies football is in prospect.
The girls would very much appreciate it if as many Angels supporters as possible could make the short journey to Maidstone and help cheer them on to victory.
Admission is just £4.00 and whilst there is no parking at the stadium there are plenty of public car parks just a short walk away.
Full directions to the Gallagher Stadium are available by clicking here.
The last trains back to Tonbridge depart from Maidstone Barracks (nearest station to the ground) at 21:55 and 22:55.Updated 23:51 - 17 May 2018 by Jim Rowe


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The Modern Language Association's meetings are among the most packed of any scholarly group. From 7 a.m. breakfasts to formal sessions that end after 10 p.m., attendees cover a lot of ground.
But it's not all work. Universities and scholarly societies sponsor receptions to give attendees a chance to unwind. Most of the receptions are "cash bars," so you have to pay for your booze. And the spreads at most of the cash bars are non-existent. But the conversation never stops.
Here's a report on some of Tuesday night's receptions (all information about drinks of choice is courtesy of bartenders):
Host: Yale University
Drinks of choice: Cabernet and Chardonnay
What they were talking about: Yale's was one of the few receptions where the wine was free and hors d'oeuvres were plentiful. Not surprisingly, people were in good moods. Most attendees were recent Ph.D.'s, catching up with friends. "It's a good vibe," said one Yale alum. "If you are unhappy with your career, you don't come to this kind of thing."
Yale has been known for years for its less than collegial relations with graduate students, so those who were at the party were impressed with the open bar. A former union organizer at Yale, now on the tenure track elsewhere, said she just doesn't think about the bitterness any more.
Host: MLA Division on Old English Language and Literature
Drinks of choice: Gin and tonic, or scotch ($8 each)
What they were talking about: Bad presentations at the conference. Nicholas Howe, a professor of English at the University of California at Berkeley, said, "The 18-minute paper in a 20-minute slot is a work of art," prompting a friend to chime in that "in the entire history of conferences, no one ever complained about someone who didn't use all the time for a session."
Excitement is also building about a mammoth publishing effort: The Dictionary of Old English, a project led by the University of Toronto. Next year should see the publication of the volume of the letter G, which has taken about two years to complete. Fortunately, there are only 22 letters in the series (and in Old English).
Host: Mark Twain Circle of America
Drinks of choice: Cabernet ($8) and Heineken ($6.75)
What they were talking about: One professor was regaling her colleagues with a story about a student who failed to show up for a final exam this month. When she asked why, he sent her a detailed e-mail about "a night of passion" with his girlfriend, the night before the final. The experience had been so intense that he was emotionally and physically spent, he said. The professor failed the student and her colleagues were debating whether Twain would have approved.
Some argued that Twain would have appreciated the student's point of view. They noted that he had played with the saying "the pen is mightier than the sword" by combining the first two word to write "penis mightier than the sword." The professor's conclusion is that she did the right thing in failing the student, but that Twain would have found her handling of the situation self-righteous.
Host: MLA Committee on Disability Issues in the Profession
Drink of choice: Cabernet ($8)
What they were talking about: Two groups of attendees were both talking about "invisible disabilities" and the common perception that disability is only real if it's something that you can see. People with chronic fatigue syndrome, for example, are not always seen as having a real disability.
Lennard Davis, a professor of the University of Illinois at Chicago, said that he thought that "depression was the stepchild of disability studies." His next book will focus on an invisible disability; he's looking at the history of obsession.
Host: the minnesota review
Drink of choice: Yuengling Lager ($6.75)
What they were talking about: No one topic seemed to have captured the attention of this group. Among the ideas that people were thinking about: conservative politicians, academic freedom, the job market, baby culture, and literature.
Host: Princeton University Department of French and Italian
Drink of choice: Gin and tonic ($8)
What they were talking about: Professors and their current and former graduate students mostly engaged in chit-chat, catching up on personal details rather than discussing any serious issues. As one French professor put it: "These are very quiet times in French at the instant. There's no great disputes, no serious squabbles. People are getting on with their work." Asked if that makes French unusual as a discipline, he replied: "Well, English always seems in a tizzy about something. And there's no telling about Spanish."
Host: University of California Irvine German Department
Drink of choice: Heineken ($8)
What they were talking about: Cold drinks carried the day, as the room was sweltering from the start and never cooled down because the crowd grew to the hundreds. One attendee explained that the Irvine party is the "main gathering of Germanists, and it started years ago in a small hotel room and has grown to this," pointing to a filling ballroom. "You pass people at the conference and they say, 'See you at the Irvine party.' And they do."
Host: Graduate Student Caucus
Drink of choice: Yuengling Lager and Heineken ($6.75 each)
What they were talking about: The hard-working organizers of the caucus spent some time at the reception in a semi-formal business meeting, talking about events and policies. The informal chats centered on more personal issues.
In one group, talk centered on the lack of food at most of the receptions and whether those who were not graduates of Yale could get into its reception. Two of those in this discussion asked that it also be noted that they were discussing postcolonial theory.


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I get to try and test a variety of things bike-wise as part of being a builder. After all, its important to understand what works, and what doesn't. Lately my focus has been on brakes. Looking at alternatives that work in various situations. One challenge, in particular, is fitting brakes over fenders and wide tires - especially if the rims are on the narrow side.
I set up a prototype bike with a fork sized to use the longer armed Tektro double pivot brakes, and the brake bridge is set to test the Paul center pull brakes. For testing, the wheels are Mavic MA3 on Record hubs - something purchased used (cheaply) on eBay a couple of years ago. The tires are a pair of 700C x 28 Hutchinson Top Speed - which no longer appear to be in their catalog (nor is there anything else like it). Which is a pity.
This has been a favorite tire of mine lately. It's not an expensive or fancy tire. Some folks look at it and don't believe it's a 28 - but that's just the cross-section (egg like) at the top of the rim throwing them off. In reality, it's an easy rolling tire despite having low thread count and an anti-puncture layer. Typically, I run them at about 90 psi - which seems to sag about right under my weight. As we've discussed before, a compliant tire reduces rolling resistance on the road (as opposed to a test drum). So I've used these tires many times in roll offs to try and convince the reluctant of the benefits of soft and fat (tires, not bellies).
The Top Speed corners very nicely, as wider tires are wont to do. Hands and butt feel much better after hours on these tires than they do when riding on 23s. Very comfy is my official rating. And these two factors are often forgotten when folks evaluate tires. If you're riding for long periods, faith in road holding and physical comfort make a big difference, and probably allow you to gain more speed than a new set of expensive aero wheels.
My test setup is Campy based, which means that there are two (2) quick releases for each brake. One is in the brifter, and one at the brake. Theoretically, one can open the brakes wider for wheel removal. The theoretical part relates to how wide the brakes open when they have no cable tension on them. The Paul appears to do a bit better than the Tektro in this regard, but both open plenty wide for a set of 700C x 28s. They should handle 700c x 32s as well, and it looks like the Paul's will also clear 35s or even 38s.
Both brakes are positioned so that the brake shoes are at the bottom of their slots. This isn't the ideal location, but it's what demonstrates the greatest tire/fender clearance. The Paul's, again, offer more clearance. Having said that, my preference is to use cantilever brakes with fenders.
With fenders, its ideal to set the hight of the fork crown or brake bridge based on where you want the fender to sit relative to the wheel/tire. When using crown or bridge mounted brakes, the position of the crown/bridge is dependent on the needs of brake in order to get a good interface between the rim and the brake pads. Sure, there's a slot where the brake pad can be raised or lowered on the brake arm. But this still offers only limited range with which to work - and ideally (if only for aesthetics) we'd like to have the brake pad centered in its slot.
The net of this is that two different factors want to determine the distance from the axle to the crown/bridge - and sometimes these factors disagree as to the proper position. Back in the old days, there were many more lengths of brake arms available - making this particular fitting issue less difficult. Because we don't have those choices today, a cantilever (or other frame mounted brake) makes life easier. It is fitted to assure good rim/pad fit, while leaving the crown/bridge to be set at a distance that works well for the tire/fender combo chosen. And, that's why I feel partial to cantilevers for fenders.
It should be noted that the Paul center pull brakes are available for mounting on pivots brazed to seat stays/fork legs - making this another good combo.
But, what about the brakes I tested? Are they any good? A couple of points that should be noted. First, both act very rigid, avoiding brake squeal. This is impressive given the length of these brakes from the pivot to the brake pad (again this was maximized on the test bike). They also feel very firm under hand, and grab harder the stronger one squeezes them. This is an area where many modern brakes are superior to many of the older brakes. Too many older brakes seemed to flex more as more pressure was applied. Not these two.
Neither was the hardest grabbing brake that I've ever tried, but both did fine for me, and under these extreme circumstances (note that bike and rider all up are approaching 240 lbs, while the wide tires provide great braking traction). Having said that, brake grab can be tuned with various brake pads, and different riders like firmer or sticker pads. Stock, these worked fine for me, but some riders will want softer pads.
Taken as a whole, its clear I prefer other solutions for mounting fenders. But, having said that, either of these is a great brake - and I'd be happy to have a pair of either one under me out on the road.
Often, the press pans Tektro (or private label versions thereof). But I think that this is marketing bias. They are nicely finished, smooth operating, easy to fit and adjust, and have the fundamental key attribute of good brakes - they're stiff. And, again, we're talking about the long arm version. The more common short arm version can only be better for stiffness. Yes, lighter brakes are available, but this isn't a critical component for weight reduction. And typically, Tektros are so nicely priced that I have to encourage folks to give them fair consideration if the need arises to replace their brakes.
That's it for now. See ya soon
Saturday, June 14, 2008
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Here's proof that hip-hop is still America's most potent and controversial pop form: Barack Obama -- a leader some have dubbed the hip-hop president -- has yet to have a rapper perform in the East Room.
This administration loves music. It has held numerous concerts through the landmark White House Music Series, a laudable effort to celebrate unique strands of American music at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Thus far, the series has shone its chandelier light on country, jazz, Latin and classical.
So what's taken President Obama so long to recognize the genre that mobilized to help get him elected?
Hip-hop was pumping out the hosannas during Obama's trek on the 2008 campaign trail, praising him in rhyme after rhyme. Young Jeezy's "My President" was the most compelling hit to emerge from the pack -- a powerful confluence of pop hit, street anthem and rally cry. Over a triumphant beat, the Atlanta rapper gave his endorsement with a trademark roar: "Obama for mankind/We're ready for damn change, so y'all let the man shine!"
So far, Jeezy hasn't roared those words in the East Room. And it's not because the administration doesn't understand reciprocity. In June 2009, country hunk Brad Paisley released "Welcome to the Future," a soaring tune that cites the Obama presidency as Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream manifest. A few weeks after "Welcome to the Future" hit the airwaves, Paisley was in the White House crooning it for the first family.
Meantime, Jeezy is presumably still waiting for his invitation. Ditto for Ludacris and Common -- both A-list rappers who praised Obama during the campaign. And while Jay-Z made a quick and quiet visit to the White House in March, the only rap performance to take place there during Obama's term came in spring 2009 from Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas. (And let's be real -- Will's not a rapper so much as a walking, talking, rhyming BlackBerry commercial.)
One can assume that Obama is still tiptoeing the very thin line between embracing the hip-hop community and catering to constituents who remain dubious about rap music.
He took a similar approach during the campaign, adopting Jay-Z's dirt-off-your-shoulder gesture during a speech in North Carolina, while distancing himself from a Ludacris song that hurled pointed insults at Hillary Rodham Clinton, John McCain and George W. Bush.
But isn't that the beauty of both hip-hop and American politics? Opinions run hot. Mud gets slung. In a crumbling music industry where survival often depends on playing nice, hip-hop is not afraid to push envelopes. And that's exactly why it's worth celebrating in America's house.
It wouldn't come without criticism. If Bill O'Reilly was able to persuade Pepsi to drop a Ludacris endorsement in 2002, one can only imagine what Glenn Beck might do with an Easter Egg Roll appearance from Gucci Mane.
Still, it's time for the White House Music Series to recognize hip-hop. Common -- a Chicago rapper who is incredibly thoughtful, widely revered and squeaky clean -- seems like a plausible candidate. Even better: an appearance from hip-hop troupe the Roots. Many of these Music Series events contain an educational component for young students, and you're not going to get a better drum lesson from anyone other than Roots bandleader and timekeeper ?uestlove.
Or maybe invite hip-hop royalty. Twenty years ago, Chuck D of Public Enemy was one of American music's hottest lightning rods. Today, he divides his stage time between rapping and giving lectures. He spoke on a panel at Washington's Duke Ellington School of the Arts in February. Did he think the POTUS was overdue in recognizing hip-hop?
"The Obama administration has other things to worry about," he said. "They have to worry about the constituency of the United States of America, and I think the president is wise enough to understand that there are major issues at hand."
Let's hope he's also wise enough to invite someone like Chuck D to perform at the White House -- sooner rather than later


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Louis Tomlinson has had a few foot-in-mouth moments - he wouldn't be a pop star if he hadn't - but the moment he called a reporter a "little s***" has to be one of the most awkward.
The One Direction singer was being interviewed by broadcaster Stephen Nolan about the band's new hit Perfect, but was left feeling a bit miffed when Nolan admitted he hadn't heard it.
Not ideal it has to be said.
As the reporter says "tell me about Perfect", Louis asks if he had heard it, and getting a "no", he replies: "You should of [heard it] before this interview you little s**t."
Well, he's not one to hold his thoughts back.
Clearly shocked by the insult, Stephen then steps back says: "Don't touch me, don't touch me."
Clearly finding the funny side, Louis appears to call security as he shouts: "Preston can we have a word".
At least that cheeky smile never left his face so we'd like to think it all ended with peace and harmony.
Finally speaking about the song itself, Louis says: "Perfect, it is not a standard love song.
"It is about for the moment and less about marriage and soppy stuff."
The band released the new video just hours after they were forced to cancel a gig in Belfast because Liam Payne fell ill.
Louis was the first to tweet a link to the stylish black and white Vevo clip, writing next to it: "Here's the video for Perfect for you guys. Hope you love it."
Within minutes it started trending on Twitter - though trending just behind it was a #GetWellSoonLiam hashtag.
Luckily he did, and the band performed on stage last night as planned. Phew.
Watch the new video for Perfect above.


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Thursday, 23 October 2008 11:00
Summer Weddings and Bridal WearWritten by d'Italia
Love is in the air! It's wedding season in Australia as the days heat up. Hemlines are getting shorter and sleeves are disappearing as we approach the hot sizzling months of summer. The onset of this sunny season is always reason to celebrate love. Beautiful weddings, engagement parties and bridal receptions are what summer days are all about, and it's time for women to dress the part in preparation for these important moments.
There are countless articles and advice columns on wedding dress styles and bridal wear. It's undeniable how important the bride's dressing and fashion sense is – the perfect veil, the accessories and of course, the wedding gown itself. Dressing the bridal party is also important as they are important complements to the bride and groom. Finding the perfect bridesmaids dresses that fit the style and looks of each bridesmaid is crucial. For the mothers of the bride and groom, their dresses are important as well. Full of pride and joy, the mothers want to look their best as well! And what about the guests? You may not be getting married this summer season, but chances are, you may be invited to at least one wedding in the next few months. Finding the perfect dress or gown for the wedding, the reception, the dinner party or even for engagement parties can be a daunting task. You don't want to outshine the bride, but you do want to look your best for the special occasion. d'Italia, a designer fabric store in Melbourne, is a leader in bridal wear fabric and design. d'Italia's silk fabric is imported to Australia directly from Europe. It comes from the same manufacturers who produce for designer labels like Armani, Gucci and Escada. New fabric is imported every season, to ensure that the latest designs are available in store. d'Italia's French lace is exclusively from top French lines, and is made-to-order. It comes only in small 4-5m lengths. All products that are beaded are hand-made. © Copyright | d'Italia
Published in Wedding Dress Ideas
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When I was assigned to write on 2017 parenting goals I wanted to have something really profound for you. Something that would make you think, "Oh, that's so good." But, here's the truth -
My parenting goal is survival.
I know that this doesn't sound like a pretty, Christian answer.
But, if we are honest, parenting is the best, hardest job ever. EVERY DAY we wonder if what we said will help our children become better adults or drive them to the therapist's chair. We question if we spent enough time with time with them or if they felt ignored. Are we doing enough to translate safety and love from us and their God or did we miss that boat loading the next load of dishes?
My girls will tell you that...
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