text:
Happy ending to this chapter.
Looking back at 6 months ago, I couldn't imagine what I would be feeling today. Because it was so painful, I don't dare to try and imagine today's event. But 6 months ago, I wasn't the same person I am now.
To feel like being at the bottom of your life, there's nowhere to go except up. But I could also dig deeper and stay in a dark, horrible place. I'm just really really glad I didn't choose to stay put.
I can't really point to one thing that pushed me forward. Cause many factors contributed to that. I thank God for making me try to hold on, and my parents who I can't imagine to break their hearts once again, and my dear friends who have faith in me more that I trust myself.
I guess in this 6 months, I recognize some sort of strength that I never knew existed. And thanks to these people, who encourage that strength and be the reason for me to succeed.
I might fail again and again in my life. Well that's the circle of life. But when that time comes, I really hope that I remember today; the day that I thought was very hard to get to, the moment when I doubt myself more that ever, is pure nonsense. Today's a prove that if you pull yourself together and hope and try to make things better, it will eventually be better.
And to this group of people that I grew up with for 6 month, we really helped each other up. I could imagine myself crumbling without your support and perseverance. We literally sat through thick and thin together. We literally laughed and cried our heart out together. We were vulnerable and strong together and for each other. And for that, I'm thankful that you guys are around.
Allah won't give you more that you can bear. He might let you bend you, but He won't let you break
And above all, I'm glad that I'm blessed with love all around me. I can comfortably say that.


text:
And although not part of the original test drive, I wanted to share these awesome tags by artist Lisa Dobry!
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Stencil Test Drive Redux #8 - Jump for Joy
And although not part of the original test drive, I wanted to share these awesome tags by artist Lisa Dobry!
28 comments:
Wonderful art made with a wonderful stencil! I'm not much for drawing. This stencil would be a lot of fun! My email is aqua.blues (at) yahoo (dot) com. Thanks for the give away, Jessica!ReplyDelete
This looks like a fun stencil. browpr (at) gmail (dot) comReplyDelete
Thank you for the inspiration...bReplyDelete
Bsavellano (at) gmail (dot) com
I would love a chance to win this fabulous stencil. Thanks for the chance.ReplyDelete
Love the stencils and the inspirational art. Thanks for sharing.ReplyDelete
ghoagland (at) msn (dot) com
So cool. I love your tutorials with the stencils.ReplyDelete
Super fun stencil!!! One of my most favorites!ReplyDelete
I do love this stencil, on my wish list. Today I received the The Rain stencil, can't wait to play with it. Great fun...thanks for adding those tags.ReplyDelete
gerriejohnnic (at) gmail (dot) com
THis is just delightful! I lvoe how you used it!ReplyDelete
Hi, just got your blog link from Marit, such a joy to join your give away. I would be very happy with the tree of life stamp or the coffeeReplyDeleteReplies
And love stencil. My email is : ati.norway(at)gmail(dot)comDelete
What a fun stencil, Jessica. Margarite [margaritegrootjes(at)gmail(dot)com]ReplyDelete
What marvelous fun! The joy and exuberance in this stencil is wonderful. Thank you for designing it. weaverclarke(at)gmail(dot)comReplyDelete
I have always loved this stencil. Love seeing them again, makes me want to get them out. Maybe it will help get me out of this dry spell!ReplyDelete
I love your stencils! lynnc66(at)comcast(dot)netReplyDelete
What a fun stencil, Jessica. Margarite [margaritegrootjes(at)gmail(dot)com]ReplyDelete
Already have this stencil, so not entering to win. Just wanted to tell you how great the stencil is. Makes wonderful wrapping paper for granddaughters Birthday gift (among other things)ReplyDelete
I feel like jumping for joy when I see this stencil. Happy happy girls!!! Can make lots of fun things with this one. Debbie (firstname.lastname@example.com)ReplyDelete
Love the stencil. Would love to have it. Jump for joy ! Such a Great phrase .....ReplyDeleteReplies
Oeps I forget my email adress firstname.lastname@example.com
Oh man this is just how I feel at the end of my 34th year of teaching. If I tried to jump that high, I would end up in traction. norageary at hotmail dot comReplyDelete
Oh man this is just how I feel at the end of my 34th year of teaching. If I tried to jump that high, I would end up in traction. norageary at hotmail dot comReplyDelete
Love the energy of this stencil and would love to win it and use it in my art journalReplyDelete
Jilldmcdowell at gmail dot com
Thanks as always for the inspiration!!ReplyDelete
Thanks as always for the inspiration!!ReplyDelete
If you are entering a GIVEAWAY, please add your email address in the event we need to contact you.
To avoid SPAM, please write it like this:
jessicasporndesigns (at) gmail (dot) com
Thank You!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Drug Rehab:
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Jamesport is located in Daviess County and contains the following zip codes:
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Sitemap - Privacy & Terms - Contact Us - Drug Rehab
Copyright © 2007, Sober Pursuit, All Rights Reserved.


text:
These officers set about identifying the privileged group
of 19 prospective, namely: Omar Bawamia, Kursheed Beebeejaun,
Robert de Comarmond , Jean Claude Dantier, Rajen Dassyne,
Kailash Issur, Alexis and Thierry Koenig , Sonny Moollan ,
Bernard Moutia , Gerard Pascal, Gilbert Poisson, Christian
Poncini, Michel Prosper, Omar Rawat, Lysippe Rivalland, Francois
Tadebois, Jean Pierre Tostee and John King who were to become
the founder members of our table. Following a series of regular
pre-setup meetings convened by the extension officers which
were held during the 6 months period June to December 1984,
and after due compliance with creation chapters under RTI
rules, the table was officially chartered as MRT3 in early
January 1985, together with the induction of the 19 prospective
founder members and a newly elect chairman. This ceremony
was held in the presence of HMs Vice-Governor of Mauritius,
Sir V.Ringadoo together with both local and international
guests at the Julal Suja hall, MSPCA R-Hill. The event officially
marked the birthplace and starting point of our clubs
life and activities, and was reported widely across the local
press, television and international table networks.
On a historical note, the charter of MRT3 filled the missing
link, under the regional association section of RTI constitution,
that led on later in June 1985 to the creation of ARTIO during
its first ever AGM that was convened by MRT1s
Farook Hossen and held at Merville Beach Hotel. At that particular
AGM, it was in fact the freshly chartered MRT3, through convenor
Rajen Dassyne, who took up the challenge of holding 2 years
after, the AGM together with first INDABA to be convened in
Going forward with enthusiasm, the newly inducted chairman,
Gerard Pascal set the pace and held the first MRT3 business
meeting in February 85 at the MSPCA in R-Hill. The Mauritian
"paille en queue" bird was adopted as our official
symbol together with the RT logo to signify the tables
uniqueness and beauty.
After 18 years of existence, and holding more than 200 business
meetings, MRT3 has since its inception realized numerous
community service projects, hosted ARTIO AGMs: La Pirogue
1987-R.Dassyne (with Indaba), Point-aux-Biches 1994-S Ah Kong,
Ambre 1998-J P Liu and held numerous private fund raising
events, some of which have been extremely innovative, not
to say daring, in their conception and implementation.
Like any organization MRT3, has undergone the various life
cycle phases, especially when the generation of founder members
gradually started to leave table as from 1994, having attained
the age limit. However, with the continuous inflow and recruitment
of new prospective, a second generation of table has maintained
and adapted our workings to match modern times. On the same
trend, a wave of third generation new millennium
tablers is now slowly taking over and extensively adapting
the style, all whilst adopting our traditions and best practices
that have made the pride of MRT3 along its history.
Our table today boasts to be the first in ARTIO with an active
presence on the web at http://pages.intnet.mu/mrt3 , which
started by the publishing our homepage way back in 1998. Our
projects continue to be in phase with tables motto:
adopt innovations, adapt to practicalities and improve for
the future before moving again to the adopt phase. With todays
rapid changing of living style patterns, we continue to thrive
due to our responsiveness to change, and pace of adaptation.
Table meets for business every 1st Wednesday, and socials
every 3rd Fridays of each month.
Compiled with the helping hand and memories of founder members
and past tablers.
Sanjoy Gokulsing
MRT3 Chairman 2002


text: Silver Room in Skegness This is one of our popular mid-range options. With contemporary furnishings, your light and bright space is similar in style to a hotel room. There's no lounge or kitchen but you'll find everything you need to make a nice cup of tea or coffee. Book now Previous Next Tweet Email What's included All of our resort rooms are on either the ground or first floor. If you have little ones (or would just prefer not to have any stairs), you can guarantee a ground floor option when you book for an extra £15 (this is refundable on resort if you are a blue badge holder). 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms Bathroom with shower only Bed linen provided Tea and coffee making facilities TV in master bedroom Please Note: Our Silver Rooms at Skegness feature locked interconnecting doors. Make your break extra special Dining plans from only £19.95 per adult per day Add a great value dining plan for a delicious breakfast and evening meal on every day of your stay. Gold Apartment Upgrade to one of our more spacious Gold Apartments with a lounge and kitchen. Book your Butlins break Floor plan 2 bedroom floor plan Sleeps up to 4 All Accommodation in Skegness Skegness Apartments Seaside Apartment Fairground Apartment Gold Apartment Silver Apartment Standard Apartment Rooms in Skegness Standard Room Silver Room in Skegness Compare rooms and apartments All accommodation includes: Bathroom (with shower only), bed linen, heating, multi-channel TV, tea & coffee making facilities plus wardrobes and other storage space Normal check-in from 4pm Apartments Rooms What's included Fairground Seaside Gold Silver Standard Silver Room Standard Room Lounge and open-plan kitchen/dining area, complete with oven, hob, fridge, toaster, cutlery, crockery and utensils Iron and ironing board Microwave 32" Widescreen TV with DVD 32" Flatscreen TV 2nd TV in bedroom Towels/hairdryer/toiletries Housekeeping service Early check-in (from 3pm) Dedicated reception and team Personal safe Guaranteed ground floor (for additional extra £15)


text:
Dear Diary,
the break up with Downey has been by far the ugliest and hardest on me… i dont know what to do. im still friends with people i dated in the past. A guy has NEVER treated me this badly and gotten away with it and received my pardon. Downey used to not return my calls when we were boyfriend/girlfriend.. and as time went further he got worse and worse and slid so bad that there were entire months where i had to initiate all contact with him. "Had" is probably not the correct word here- if I was more of a laid back "I dont give a shit person" than he might have called me instead, but I am not that type of person. So… now that we are not together he is doing it again but it is much worse. with ANYBODY ELSE i would not try to contact them. With anybody else, I would have given up six months ago. But things were different between us and every time I saw him I saw something in his eyes that gave me hope. That hope got broken over and over and over again. But fuck the pity party or blame game, fuck that, my point is simply what the precedence was in protocol and yes, I let it happen because I felt I had no choice in the matter. He set this huge precedent and said all these things about wanting to be in my life. But he knows I have no f-cking patience and not hearing from him is making me hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt hurt. It's not like the 24 interrogation rooms where they can only hurt you so far before you become dead of a heart attack or loss of blood and they can push it to the limit but… No; This kind of pain can go as high as it wants without killing you. And I can push it down but then the silence continues and I feel like he wants to torture me and I dont understand why. So I should say OKay he is an asshole. But he wasn't an asshole when he was with me. I don't get it. So I should leave it at THAT. But I don't leave things there I am incapable of that. Why did he pick the one person in the universe who cannot leave a friend who they believe is in pain (yes, ironically, I think he must be in a worse spot than I am to be doing this and it scares me to think about it because in his world he has people that depend on him. Maybe he thought cutting me out of it was a bandaid, but I know better. I could go on but that would be going against what Downey wants disclosed. I've probably already gone against it but.. Fuck, his lack of trust against me freaks me out. I've proven to him i'm one of the few people he can trust. He shared more intimate details with me than anybody else and.. it's like he is doing anything he can to try to get me to explode and reveal them. Like this girl that called me up and at the time me and Downey weren't speaking and I thought we were over and she told me he lied about some stuff to me… anyway I forgot (for real) that I had told Downey I wouldnt talk to her about stuff. I told Downey what we talked about. Downey became visibly upset… and Downey said that he knew the next time she called me I would talk to her. Not true. Now that he had proved to me that she was a liar I proceeded to delete her from my facebook and I don't have her phone number… and I have no reason to call her.. and I won't. Ever. But his lack of trust in me.. that just makes me feel sorry for him. He has built a wall (he told me this when he was open with me and loved me, but once he felt the stakes were important be somehow became incapable of love. But I still love him even when I dumped him I still loved him! It doesn't count though. Talk to the friends that try to get me to get over him and they will tell you I don't call them because I dont want to fucking burden them because I know if they dig deep enough I will start going on. but anyway, going with my metaphor, metaphorically his heart will shut down from not being able to get out. I DONT UNDERSTAND WHAT HE WAS THINKING. THERE ARE SO MANY OTHER THINGS I COULD SAY BUT SOMEBODY ELSE COULD READ THIS. AND THERE ARE TOO MANY SECRETS HE COUNTED ON ME TO KEEP AND THEY BURDEN ME BECAUSE HE WONT TALK TO ME.
lol- i reread part of my book where i am yelling at radcliff (my best friend dave C. a composer, but I should be careful about using his last name the same way I am not using Downey's real name as I think in the midst of all this I have forgotten to be careful recently about disguising names.) And I say "Radcliff, you know the number one easiest way to make a women violent? It's to ignore them and not speak to them!" And I go on speaking and quoting from the magazine. I should find the paragraph. But there are many verbatim paragraphs with me analyzing the girls point of view and Dale Radcliff analyzing the male perspective. It is very funny… and some of it is prophetic.
There is so much I can't tell you diary. Because this is a public place. But even if it were a private place, Downey made me feel like there were things I could not let go of… that is the first time anybody has done that to me…
Why do I feel I need him?
Is it just my problem of wanting what I can't have?
I REALLY lack patience, that is a HUGE understatement, B understands that VERY well. On a good note, I was able to read large portions of my novel to Burdough (even with slandering remarks about him) and he said he thought it would sell to the audience I was aiming for. It had no damaging impact on our relationship. He did not say "ouch you slammed my hand in the door" (something Downey used to say whenever I brought up a boy I had a past with).
That was a huge relief.
I can still sleep with Burdough… and he brings me comfort.. and love..
but I miss the passion, the incredible "I cant put a word to it" rightness of Downey. Like he fit me… he fit me… how many other girls fit you Downey?
I need to give you time…. this sort of behavior is what scares radcliff away (he still holds a grudge for an outburst I had 7 years ago although he wouldn't tell me to my face) but what upsets me SO much is that he can't just be a f-cking man and say "Hey. Nicole. you know what? I need some space. SO to answer your question YES. We are friends. But I don't want you to call me.. I'm sorry. I still care.. Etc."
Or.. "No, I don't give a shit, and stop contacting me!"
But this indecision.. it is torturing me. Not knowing how to handle it.. if I should take action.. ignore it.. Im trying to live my life and move on.. but he is crippling my ability to go on by not giving me any answer.
And the more silence goes by, the more bad things he did I am willing to forgive just because "I miss him."
Christina said she wrote him a hate message on facebook but didn't send it. I appreciate her caring and I love her but she is in a marriage that SHE needs to get out of.. I love her. He doesn't deserve her. Anyway, I'm really glad she didn't send it. I feel like everything I do is the equivalent of a tip toe but he interprets it as a gun being slammed against his head. I suppose after years of being oversensitized to violent behavior he could get this way. But what I REALLY don't get.. is that it seems like the reason (in my opinion) his marriage failed is that they were too alike. Him and his wife. They both seem to approach life at the same tempo. Ying and ying as opposed to ying and yang.(I am NOT ying. Whether that makes me yang, we don't know.) But Downey would never admit this.. HE IS MAN AND LET HIM ROAR! HE IS ABOVE WOMEN! WOMEN WILL NEVER BE EQUAL TO HIM! LOL!!!! Don't think I'm some kind of fucking martyr for still loving him because I'm not.So what, I'm good at forgiving him. I don't know why. I do know the second words out of his mouth when talking to me on IM was "I am your future." Fuck you Downey for making that true. Maybe I was just a dare somebody set him up to take…Downey I miss you even though you were cruel… I can look past everything…. Why can't you? Too afraid people will judge you for getting back with your ex? "I tried the relationship thing and I realized I just can't do it," you said. What crap… I don't know how to understand that statement so I don't try.
I just tell you how I feel, even if you don't answer.
And I sound like a kid.
i miss you.
i leave out everything else
all the loneliness and despair
because that comes with the territory.
I guess I want to know if I've lost the reciprocity.
Ha, I've answered my own question haven't I?
Not exactly (I'm talking to myself, something I can only do while typing)
somebody can love in silence, in secret.
I try everything to break the silence, but it's impenetrable… Maybe I should just show up at his place and say Hi.He's set me up for it.
Anyway.. later diary.
much love… somewhere.
Maybe I should stop living in isolation…. I have a lot of friends that call me but it's like I'm going through the measures. Yes. my true friends break through those barriers, stop by my apartment at two in the morning, etc, at the time I dont like it, but I appreciate it.
Oh, good news by the way.. Zick (he wouldnt mind if I used his last name) is going to be okay, I think.. he has a 70 percent chance.. they are doing the chemo on him and hopefully he wont need a colonoscopy bag. I'm worried about him.. I hope he can handle all of this… plus the heart attack…And what does he have to live for? No family… no girlfriend…. But he has a good heart. Our friendship has not always come easy. But it is worth more because of that.
-Runaway Girl


text:
University of Washington School of Public Health
Austin Ross Named To Health Care Hall of Fame
Austin Ross, who spent his entire career at the Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, was inducted into Modern Healthcare's Health Care Hall of Fame on March 21. The late Senator Ted Kennedy was also inducted at the American College of Healthcare Executives 2010 Annual Leadership Congress in Chicago.
The Hall of Fame, which has honored only 87 leaders since starting in 1988, recognizes the life accomplishments of those who have made the most significant contributions to the increased effectiveness or efficiency of our health care system and to the health of all Americans. They are exemplars of professional practice, or "the very best-of-the-best," according to Dennis Pointer, Austin Ross–Virginia Mason Professor at the UW School of Public Health.
Ross received a master's degree in public health from the University of California, Berkeley in 1955. He began his career at Virginia Mason Medical Center that year as an administrative resident and retired in 1991 as vice president and executive administrator. Currently he serves as a member of the Virginia Mason Medical Center Board of Governors and professor emeritus of Health Services at the UW School of Public Health.
In 2000, an endowment was created to honor Ross for his 36 years at Virginia Medical Center and his two decades as a professor in the Master of Health Administration (MHA) Program at the UW. The Austin Ross Endowed Professorship enhances the University's ability to attract and retain distinguished faculty to the MHA Program.
Throughout his career, Ross mentored hundreds of students and professionals and was the recipient of many awards, including the American College of Healthcare Executives' prestigious Gold Medal Award for Outstanding Leadership, the American College of Medical Group Administrators' Harry J. Harwick Award for Distinguished Service, the American Group Practice Association Administrator of the Year Award, and the Washington State Hospital Association Special Recognition Award.
Ross and Kennedy are profiled in the March 22 issue of Modern Healthcare.


text:
Life on a small New Zealand sheep and beef farm. Photographing nature, especially birds and animals, on the farm and around New Zealand.
Friday, 12 February 2016
Echinacea Flower
Echinacea is a member of the daisy family and is sometimes called the Purple Coneflower. They flower right through the summer months.
I bought this plant last year to see how it went here. It had a few flowers and did OK but this year it is putting a a great show.
The name, Echinacea, was derived from a Greek word meaning 'hedgehog' due to the spiny looking central disk.
9 comments:
Nice images! Another one of my favorite flowers.ReplyDelete
Wonderful blooms in a pretty pink. Their large heads are very attractive.ReplyDelete
They are so pretty. I have a lot of them in my garden. I like that they come back every year and bloom all summer long. Butterflies like them as well. : ) I'm looking forward to warmer weather.ReplyDelete
Beautiful flowers. You are caring for them well!ReplyDelete
One of my favourite flowers and the tablets are very good at helping you get well again when sickness creeps in...ReplyDelete
Great your Echinaceas do so well in your garden, I love them too but they don't survive in my wet garden.ReplyDelete
Gorgeous captures! I love coneflowers.ReplyDelete
Love the color. It seems like I've seen echinacea extract for sale in the health food isle (or maybe I'm thinking of something else entirely; it is possible!) I always look at those natural remedies when I'm buying my vitamins, but I never do buy any of them.ReplyDelete
Beautiful shots, Jocee!ReplyDelete
Thank you for joining us at the Floral Friday Fotos meme.


text:
When did you know you wanted to be a midwife/physician?
I received the call to be a midwife as a teenager. My best friend of 21 years was born at home with a midwife and introduced me to the idea and it is the perfect fit for me.
What's your favorite part of your job?
There are so many parts that are my favorite! But I think overall, the best part is building relationships with women and their families. I love watching families grow and empowering them in their transitions.
How do you see the birth community changing in the years to come?
I am hoping we will see a greater desire and support for physiologic birth. I believe that will mean more midwives, birth centers, and family centered care.
What are your favorite resources for women in Austin?
I think there is a fantastic childbirth education and doula community in Austin, better than anywhere else I've lived.
What's your favorite way to exercise or where do you spend time outdoors in Austin?
I walk my dog, Quinn, and her puppy cousins, Roslin and Seamus, almost every day on the trails by our house. I also enjoy yoga, dancing, riding my bike, running, and canoeing, but don't make enough time for them.
How would you encourage women or what would you say to them about the process of pregnancy and delivery?
The biggest encouragement I have for pregnancy and birth is to trust to process and yourself. It is easy to get focused on change and be afraid of it, but if you trust the process and your own strength, you can enjoy it more.
How many babies have you delivered?
As a midwife, 95 (I am probably the only provider in our practice who is keeping track, but I can't wait to reach 100).
What was one of your favorite moments in a birth?
There are little things that make every birth a little special and different. Some of the most special are when I'm wrong. It keeps me on my toes.
How long have you been in practice?
I have been a midwife for almost a year now. I have worked with childbearing families for 6 years prior to that. Mostly as a labor and delivery nurse, but also as a childbirth educator, doula, and postpartum/newborn nurse.
What's the most interesting thing you've learned lately?
I recently discovered that I love chai tea and drink it every day.
How is your view on birth different now that you've experienced it so many times?
The longer I work in the birth world, the more I trust the process. It is easy to over-medicalize birth in this technological world, but it is pretty amazing how well things turn out when we just keep our hands off.
What is something that surprises you about deliveries?
Even though I've been at thousands of births, it is surprising that I still learn something every time.


text:
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text:
XII. … Thus the promises added to the precepts signify only what God will grant to believers and penitents, not what he wills to grant to all those to whom the precept is proposed. [3.XV.12]
XVIII. There cannot be contrariety between those two wills because they do not will and nill [sic] the same thing in the same manner and respect. … [3.XV.18]
XXIV. If God by this will had signified that he willed the salvation of all without exception, he would have signified that he willed what he least willed (since by passing over the greater part, he has not willed to give them salvation). But when he signifies that he wills the salvation of all believers and penitents, it signifies that he wills that which he really wills and nothing is more true, nothing more sincere than such a declaration. [3.XV.24]
XII. This twofold will [of an antecedent and consequent will as per Amyraut -DHC] cannot be proved from Mt. 23:27, ... Therefore, Jerusalem is here to be distinguished from her sons as the words themselves prove. ... [3.XVI.12]
XVIII. When God testified that "he has no pleasure at all in the death of the sinner, but that he should return from his ways, and live" (Ezek. 18:23), this does not favor the inefficacious will or the feeble velleity of God because the word chpts (which occurs here) does not denote desire so much as delight and complacency. ... [3.XVI.18]
- Francis Turretin, Institute of Elentic Theology
It seems Francis Turretin did not hold to the well-meant offer as taught by John Murray and the Neo-Amyraldians.


text:
Fleetwood manager Micky Mellon has admitted Andy Mangan's troublesome knee injury is a concern.
The striker's fine start to the season was curtailed by the problem, leaving him sidelined for Town's last four league matches.
Mangan scored on his return to action in a behind-closed-doors friendly against neighbours Blackpool on Tuesday before limping off later on.
Mellon told the Gazette: "We aren't quite sure what the injury is and we've been hoping he'd shake it off but he doesn't seem able to.
"Each time we think he is over it we give the knee a workout and he seems to have a setback. We need to take a close look at it and really get to the bottom of what the problem is.
"I'm not ruling him out for Saturday yet. We'll see how the knee settles down in the next couple of days."


text: Bob Thomas (48), an experienced CCR diver was found dead at 170 ft in the Tilly Foster Mine in New York's Putnam County. He was diving solo and initial reports speak of him becoming entangled. He had dove the mine previously. At this time I do not know if he was diving open or closed circuit since he used both at the mine. I asume he was diving his Prism. He was a good man and a good diver.


text:
Department of Education and Training – use of TAFE funds to pay for work on a dog kennel complex (Operation Corsair)
The ICAC investigated whether Garrie Cooper, a head carpentry teacher employed by the NSW Department of Education and Training at the Miller College of TAFE, and others engaged in corrupt conduct by misusing TAFE resources for their personal gain.
In its report on this investigation, which was made public on 10 June 2010, the ICAC made findings of corrupt conduct against Mr Cooper and three self-employed tradesmen, Anthony Fox, Keith Melia and Khai Van Tran. The ICAC has stated its opinion that the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions be sought with respect to the prosecution of Mr Cooper for specified offences and has made a total of eight corruption prevention recommendations to minimise or prevent similar conduct occurring in the future.
|Investigation reports
|Report on the use of TAFE funds to pay for work on a dog kennel complex
|View full report
|Findings of corrupt conduct
|Findings of corrupt conduct
|View findings
|Recommendations for prosecutions
|Recommendations for prosecutions and updates
|View recommendations
|Recommendations for disciplinary action
|Recommendations for disciplinary action
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|Recommendations for corruption prevention
|Corruption prevention recommendations
|View recommendations
|View all transcripts associated with this investigation. The Commission makes every effort to post the daily transcripts of its public inquiries on its website by 8:00 pm each day when possible. If the Commission sits later than 4:00 pm, the daily transcripts, particularly the afternoon session, may not be available until the next working day.
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|Public Notices, Media Releases and Fact Sheets
|Report on the use of TAFE funds to pay for work on a dog kennel complex
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|Corrupt teacher does TAFE out of $21,000 for dog kennel
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|Public notice
|View public notice


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Includes one Clam-P.
Assorted colors.
When you're out walking with your young child on a hot summer's day, the easiest way to protect them from the grueling sun is to cover their stroller with a blanket.Umbrellas hardly ever block all the sunlight.Perhaps your child has fallen asleep in the car seat and you want to carry them in, but don't want the light to wake them. A blanket will work here too. The problem is the blanket hardly ever stays put, never mind if your child pulls on it. The Clam-P allows you to easily fix a blanket to your child's stroller or car seat to protect them from the sun, rain, wind, snow and light.
The Clam-P will work with virtually any car seat or stroller and has a strong spring to ensure it stays in place.
The rubber grip allows you to quickly and easily attach the Clam-P to your car seat or stroller with just one hand.
Additional Information
|Not defined


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We are excited to announce that our first patch for the game is out today, for both XBLA and PSN the patch incorporates a lot of suggestions and comments 345 Games has received through their social media networks over the past month.
Throws: we have found that players are not using throws versus other attacks, and that they are underpowered. So, we are increasing damage in order to make a wrestler a viable build. In addition, the stamina cost of some throws will be adjusted to create a more balanced set of options.
Submissions: are currently overpowered resulting in the dominance of submission fighter builds. We are raising the stamina costs to perform submissions across the board.
Clinch Strikes: damage from clinch strikes will be raised to be on par with other types of strikes.
Bellator Moment: we are decreasing stamina cost for Bellator moments as we noticed that too often fighters don't have enough stamina left to finish their. Stunning the opposing fighter will still be required to execute a Bellator moment.
Parries: we discovered that parries are not effective when attacks happen from certain angles, so parries have been improved to work on attacks from all angles, this should make the whole system feel more responsive.
Camera: there is a slow down on the camera when going from standing position to the ground after a take down, so the camera speed has been improved.
New Gameplay Improvements
Stamina Changes: we have reduced Stamina cost across the board for strikes and have eliminated stamina costs to transitions in the clinch and the ground. Stamina will still need to be managed carefully, but this change should minimize any exploits in fighting strategy around stamina drain with submissions and flash KO's, while allowing players to maintain a fast pace in their matches for a longer period of time.
Flash KO's: we are limiting Flash KO's to happen only with stronger strikes. Currently they are too easy to pull off and are happening too often. The changes we are doing to Stamina should also give players a better shot of attacking several times before they have to worry about being susceptible to a Flash KO.
Block Breaks: the collision algorithm has been adjusted so it is easier to hit an opponent after a block break.
Online Play: we found that although our matching algorithm works great to match 2 fighters with similar ranks, it is limiting the number of possible matches that can be found. We have tweaked the algorithm and now it will be much easier to find matches online. The way we are calculating rank points has also been improved to make things more competitive.
User Interface
Main Menu: adding an initial welcome screen explaining each option in the main menu to clarify available options for first time players.
Training Challenges: we heard from players that some challenges are not clear enough, so we will add descriptions. Additionally we are working on implementing a clean way to help the player to assign the proper moves for challenges that require specific moves assigned to complete them.
Create a Fighter: we are updating the labels for standing strike attacks, to make it clearer that the player is assigning attacks for each corresponding hand and leg, not just combos. We are also going to be adding a pop up screen to give some guidance through the different options available after the initial character creation is complete.
A number of small bug fixes.
Moving Forward
Todays patch is only the beginning of whats in store for Bellator: MMA Onslaught. Over the next few months, 345 Games will continue to listen to its community on further enhancements and updates as it preps for a significant announcement toward the end of 2012.


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Frequently I am asked about Proscar and Avodart, two medications that are FDA approved to reduce urinary side effects from prostate enlargement (BPH). It turns out that these medications have a much wider spectrum of application than simply treating BPH. They function by blocking a type of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that occurs primarily inside the prostate. A short blog can't summarize this vast field. However, I think even a brief review might be helpful. Here is a list of their potential applications:
- Lower the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer
- Improve the detection rate of high-grade prostate cancer
- Cause Gleason 6 cancer to regress or be suppressed
- Synergize with other hormone therapy medications (such as Casodex)
- Help maintain men on active surveillance to avoid surgery or radiation
- Prolong the "holiday period" in men on intermittent hormone therapy
- Reduce male pattern baldness
- Delay orgasm in men with premature ejaculation
The occasional side effects that can occur, such as reduced libido, impotence and breast enlargement, are manageable or preventable as long as the medication is stopped in a timely fashion when side effects occur.
In a randomized study comparing Proscar with placebo, 10,000 men underwent a prostate biopsy. The Proscar-treated men were diagnosed with cancer 25% less frequently compared to placebo. However, enthusiasm for the routine use of Proscar to prevent cancer was dampened when the same study reported a 1% increased incidence of diagnosing high-grade prostate cancer. Even though many experts hypothesized that Proscar was increasing the detection rate, not causing high-grade disease, Peter Scardino, a prominent urologist from Memorial Sloan Kettering published an opinion that Proscar could be causing high-risk cancer, raising all kinds of consternation and inciting the FDA to place a warning. Fortunately, subsequent follow up published in the August 15, 2013 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine showed that after 18 years of observation there was no increased prostate cancer mortality from Proscar.
Much of what is known about Proscar can also be said about Avodart. Both agents block 5- alpha reductase (5-AR), an enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. A possible advantage of Avodart is that it blocks two of the three forms of 5-AR whereas Proscar only blocks one. No clinical trials, however, have been performed to compare clinical efficacy of the two agents. In our in-house trials we have found that DHT blood levels are lower with Avodart than Proscar.
Since both Proscar and Avodart lower PSA by about 50%, the question arises, "Are they masking the capacity of PSA to signal cancer progression?" Briefly, the answer is no. These medications do not stop a PSA rise in men with progressive cancer. However, after starting Proscar or Avodart the PSA baseline does reset 50% lower. On average, a man with a PSA of 6.0 before starting Proscar will drop to 3.0 within a few months. Subsequently, if the PSA rises consistently above 3.0, cancer progression should be entertained as a possible cause.
The rationale for concluding these agents are beneficial when added to other hormonal agents is based on the known fact that no pharmaceutical drug by itself can totally eradicate or block testosterone. So logically, the addition of a nontoxic 5-AR inhibitor to further lower DHT is likely to be helpful. Studies show that these agents suppress PSA in men with relapsed disease, delaying the rise in PSA, on average, for a couple of years. It has also been shown that these agents can double the duration of the "holiday period" in men on intermittent hormone blockade.
Proscar and Avodart—mild agents with mostly reversible side effects—almost never interact with other medications. They can be taken anytime of the day, with or without food. Proscar is available as a generic called finasteride and is very affordable. There is certainly an important role for these well-tolerated medications though in this era of new, high-powered hormonal agents such as Zytiga and Xtandi, Proscar and Avodart often get forgotten.
Read another Prostate Snatchers blog written on Avodart & Proscar here: http://prostatesnatchers.blogspot.com/2011/05/avodart-proscar-for-men-on-active.html


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Declining fish stocks and expanding fishing fleets have combined with growing competition from aquaculture to put increased pressure on the fishing sector to adjust the size and nature of its operations in many countries. In some fishing communities, almost 60% of jobs are linked to fishing and in many coastal areas there are few alternative employment opportunities for fishers. The impacts of adjustment policies on fishers and fishing communities can thus be considerable, but these policies are generally focused on reducing the number of vessels or the amount of fishing activity, and the "human side" is often treated as an afterthought. Fishers and their representatives may then feel that their only hope of defending their communities is to block any proposed changes. Such concerns are sometimes regarded as one of the major reasons behind policy inertia in adjusting fishing activity.
The Chair's Summary by Jane Willing is available for further information on the publication.
Publication date ISBN OECD Code
24 September 2007 9264937950 532007051P1
How to obtain this publication
Readers can access the full version of Structural Change in Fisheries: Dealing with the Human Dimension by the following options:
Related Documents


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The tabloids have been all over Kim Kardashian lately for being "so fat" while she's pregnant. At least that's what I've ascertained from the tabloids I saw in the supermarket check-out line. One such dubious publication compared Princess Kate's pregnancy weight gain to Kim's. Hello, they have two completely different body types…it doesn't take a genius to notice that. Now, I'm not a fan of any of the sycophantic Kardashians. I find them repugnant and reprehensible in every way. But seriously, back the eff off Kim. She's growing a human being in her body and every pregnant body reacts differently. Heck, every pregnancy affects the same body differently (I have anecdotal proof from four of my own pregnancies).
And I'm sure once Kim gives birth those same tabloids will be hounding her to lose the baby weight As. Fast. As. Possible!!! Because we all know a woman's worth is in direct proportion to the number on a scale. Not. I mean, all the Hollywood magazines and tabloids are filled with mommy stars who worked their butts off (literally) to lose the baby weight and to me, it's so annoying. You just brought a life into this world and the most important thing is ignoring that life to spend hours in the gym or an inordinate amount of emotional energy counting calories? Ugh.
As for me, the baby weight really just melted off after my first two babies. I was only 22 and 25 and didn't have to work at it at all. Just nursing burned all the calories I needed to walk out of the hospital in my pre-baby jeans. It's a lot different having a baby in your 30s. After the birth of my 3rd baby, yeah, nursing took off a lot of weight. But I was also holding onto a lot of grief weight I gained after my mother's terminal cancer diagnosis. Through a lot of hard work and exercise, I was able to take it off.
And the thing is, I just had a baby 4 months ago and she is our last. Our family is complete. And I'm trying to savor each sweet moment with her. I am thoroughly in love with this sweet, sweet girl and her cute smiles and personality. My oldest just registered for junior high, so I know how fleeting childhood is. Especially babyhood. My mom had a poem on my wall growing up and the ending lines were, "I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep." They really don't. So instead of spending time at the gym or agonizing over every last calorie, I'm going to spend that emotional and physical energy savoring every moment I can with my baby. I can't even bear to lay her down for her a nap…I just hold her while she sleeps. She is the reason I have neglected this blog…it's easy to read a book while I nurse…not so much to type out an essay.
So if anyone wants to judge me or laugh at me for carrying 2o extra pounds after giving birth, they can. This honey badger don't give a sh**. While they're busing judging and acting like jerks, I will be snuggling and nursing a smiley baby who has the longest eyelashes and denim blue eyes. I will be playing on the floor with her and reveling in every milestone. I will be drinking in every baby moment and imprinting memories on my heart and her's. She's growing so fast and I don't intend to miss a moment. And that's worth more to me than slipping back into my pre-baby jeans.


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Bosan dengan kompetisi menggunakan bahasa indonesia? mungkin bisa ikut kompetisi ini dengan menggunakan bahasa inggris
Kompetisi ini gratis untuk anak-anak dan remaja, sedangkan untuk orang dewasa harus bayar
So.. ajak anak-anak anda untuk mengikuti kompetisi ini, sambil memperlancar kemampuan bahasa inggris mereka 🙂
have fun
In 2013 we'll be running two writing competitions and giving you more time to get your entries ready. (So make sure you check out the tips for writing and submitting in this post.)
1st Competition –1st March to 30 June
Theme: "Real".
This theme includes a piece of fiction (no more than 500 words) that is set in the real world.
2nd Competition –1st August to 30 November 2013
Theme: "Unreal".
This theme includes a piece of fiction (no more than 500 words) that is not set in the modern world. (Can include fantasy, history, science fiction etc)
Winners in each category will receive
1. A detailed five-page manuscript assessment
2. 2 x e-books on writing from the 10 Top Writing Tips series.
Anyone, anywhere in the world, but your entry must be submitted in English.
- Entry for children and teens is FREE
- A $10 fee to cover judging and administration costs is payable for ADULTS. Payments can be made here.
The competitions will be judged in 3 categories:
- 8 to 12 year-old writers
- teen writers
- adult writers
Please make sure your submission follows these guidelines:
Submissions must be no longer than 500 words. They can be a complete story or just a part of one.
All entries must be in the following format:
- 12 point type…Arial or Times Roman
- Double spaced (between the lines). To double space your work, select it and go to the format menu, select paragraph and choose 'double line' in the 'line spacing' box.
- 3cm margins all the way around
Please email your submission to Dee*at*Deescribe*dot*com*dot*au
All emails should include the following information in the subject line:
- Name of writer
- Name of story
- Age category being entered
- Name of competition
Competitions exclude picture books and poetry.
- Try to show the reader what's happening through action and dialogue rather than telling them.
- Try and keep your tenses consistent – if you start writing in past tense (we had, she ran etc), keep this consistent throughout your story.
- Make sure you 'double space' your entry.
- Avoid using clichés
- Include as much conflict and action as you can.
- Try to introduce your main character straight away and allow your reader to connect with them and want to follow their journey.
- ALWAYS follow submission guidelines.
Unfortunately due to the large number of entries we have been receiving, entries are now limited to one per person.
Before you send your entry please check that:
- Your name doesn't appear on your piece of writing, but DOES appear on your email.
- In the subject line of your email, you have included your name, name of the competition, name of your story and the age category you are entering (8-12, teen or adult). (The age category is THE AGE OF THE WRITER not the age of the target readership)
- Your entry is double spaced, 12 point type with three centimetre margins all round.
- Each paragraph starts on a separate line.
- You have checked your entry for spelling and grammar mistakes, and missing words.
- Your entry is written in English and does not exceed 500 words.
- Your entry is NOT a picture book or written in verse.
- If you are entering the ADULT section you include your payment reference number
- You are sending your entry to Dee*at*Deescribe*dot*com*dot*au
Please leave any questions in the 'comments' section of http://writingclassesforkids.com/competitions-2/


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If we are out of stock on on the color or model you want, please check with our dealers to purchase. (Authorized Dealer List)
The Origin was designed by RMJ crew member Olivia. It is a small, light, neck knife. It's great for EDC as it is easily concealed and has a bottle opener built into the handle.
***NOTE*** If shipping outside the USA, DO NOT choose Signature required.
IMPORTANT: Please include extended zip code when placing order, if applicable. Your order could be declined "due to address or zip code mismatch" if you do not include this information.
If your payment is declined do NOT attempt to pay for your cart again. Please call us to complete the order. Often when a card is "declined" the funds will be tied up for a few days during the rejection process. The most common reason for a card to be declined is that there is a discrepancy between the zip code entered in the billing address and the one the bank has on file.


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We are dedicated to the Preservation and Restoration of Historic Homes.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Los Angeles, California
Charleston, South Carolina
What is Historic?
A home, 50 years or older, with its unique exterior and interior architectural features intact.
Who are we?
A privately held partnership based in Los Angeles which operates throughout the United States and internationally.
What is our goal?
To preserve, in a rental portfolio, these original properties for a generation(20 years) or longer.
Whom do you work with?
We do consulting with select clients:
Finding a Historic Home
Restoration of an Existing Home
Purchase and Sales
Who rents these properties?
High end artistic people and executives, usually for many years.
What is your Business Plan?
Appreciation resulting in significant capital gains.
Depreciation resulting in significant tax savings.
Increasing cash flows by gradually increasing rents
How long have you been in business?
21 years
Please contact us anytime! We look forward to hearing from you.
Historic Home Restorations can be reached by phone or by email.
Phone: (310) 571-3757


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Hello folks hope you've got your pens at the ready as its time to announce today's quick draw object of choice.
First a quick recap - every Tuesday I hold a
little challenge on here from 10am (or roundabouts) for myself and any other lovely art folks who would like to take part, whereby a
thing/object/item is selected at random by a
'random word generator' for me/us to draw.
To take part there are 3 rules:
1. You must draw without any external visual reference, so from mental reference only.
2. You must draw it in a time limit of five minutes.
3. You must draw it in pen straight off. So no drawing in pencil and then tracing over the line.
I will then draw that thing/object/item and if any of you would like to enter you can send me a pic of your drawing as a JPEG image either by email to firstname.lastname@example.com or comment on the post with a link to your drawing that I can download from the internet.
I'll then post all the submissionsat the end of the day for the world to see, normally around 5-6pm (UK time).
No prizes, its just for fun.
So the word today is (and oddly enough quite topical):
Yep thats the word randomly picked...strange but true! So get drawing - remember you can only draw from memory, so hopefully given theres been lots of stuff on the news recently re the new one it shouldn't be too difficult.


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Focus on Pharma Episode 11: More GMP Whistleblower Cases On the Way? Michael Gregor Dissects Recent Cases
GSK's whistleblower case invoked cGMPs and there may be at least another such case coming, says consultant Michael Gregor, of Compliance Gurus. Among the biggest recurring problems, he says, are lack of training and a failure to calibrate written procedures with actual practice.


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March 23, 2007 -- A taskforce of CEOs has launched a human-resources guide to disaster response to help private sector better prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, the Washington-based group announced this week.
"Helping Employees Affected by a Disaster," created the Business Roundtable's Partnership for Disaster Response in collaboration with the Society of Human Resource Management, includes tips for employers on how to effectively manage their business during a disaster, while taking care of their employees, the group said.
The guide also covers how to amend employee benefit plans in advance, the tax and legal implications of employee benefit programs, and how to provide financial assistance to employees through grants and loans.
- next -


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Our October Medifast Coupons are ready to help you stay fit through and after 2014's fun-in-the-sun is gone. It is easy as summer ends to start skimping on your diet since you start to worry less about wearing skimpy clothes. Don't fall for the temptation to loosen up your belt, or give into the urge to stress-eat as school and holiday seasons fire up. At the end of the month find your favorite picture of yourself from the summer when you are looking your best. Strive everyday for the rest of the year to keep yourself looking like that picture.
Get yourself 28 free meals, which saves you up to $67 dollars total, by using the coupon codes we provide. Then set up Medifast Advantage to earn free shipping as well as make your life easier with meal deliveries right to your doorstep. How many times do you end up snacking on things you shouldn't be eating while trying to figure out what to fix for dinner. Medifast Advantage eliminates these issues with a few simple clicks and saves you tons of money in the long run.
Get this month's Medifast coupons
Something else to consider when those thoughts of being too busy for keeping up with a diet or a workout program is the cost of clothing. If your size is constantly fluctuating then so is your bank account as you have to adjust to your changing body. You also have to think about how depressing it is to have to go and dig out or buy bigger sizes than what you have currently been wearing.
No one ever wants summer to end, so be sure to hang onto it the best way that you possibly can by keeping yourself in shape and sticking to your commitment to live a happy and healthy life. Medifast Coupons are simply one of the best ways that you can achieve these goals for yourself.


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Most baseball pundits cast off the Mets' outfield as being the worst in the league heading into the season.
On paper, maybe that is correct, but based on performance, the Mets outfield hasn't been all that bad.
Lucas Duda has looked good offensively, Marlon Byrd has had some big hits, Mike Baxter gives all-out effort every time he's on the field, and Jordany Valdespin proved last night what a great asset he is to the ball club.
Of the group, Collin Cowgill has struggled since his Opening Day grand slam, and Kirk Nieuwenhuis really didn't have a place on this roster.
So Juan Lagares was called up to replace Kirk. But the timing of it all is somewhat strange.
Lagares was hitting .346 in Las Vegas so a call-up was certainly warranted. But where does he fit on the big league roster at this point?
Duda is entrenched in left field. That's a given. In right, Byrd hasn't exactly played himself out of the batting order, and again Baxter – as exhibited by his key hustle double last night – produces when given the chance.
Center field has been the revolving door, but Valdespin has shown that he could be productive if given the chance. Cowgill might be in a cold spell, but he could very well regain his hot form from spring training.
The thing that confuses me is that Lagares should not be in the Majors unless he's playing every day. He's said to be a great defensive center fielder – which is of course important – but he needs to consistently be put up against top-notch pitching.
If Terry Collins is insistent on trying to get Cowgill regular at-bats, then Lagares should still be in Vegas. And throw Valdespin in the mix, and who knows what's going on in center?
Even a platoon situation with Lagares and Valdespin would not do the kid much good. If he ever plans on being a regular, he'll need to face both righties and lefties.
Here's a potential scenario, that I hope does not play, out but could be an option. If Ike Davis continues his abysmal stretch, the Mets may consider sending him down to Vegas to find himself. Duda then moves to first, and Valdespin can play left with Lagares in center.
We learned last season that even after a slow start, Davis can turn it on in a big way. His second half last year has basically earned him a free pass to struggle early on this year. But if he doesn't find his stroke like he did last season, maybe a change would do him good.
Again though, let's hope Davis finds his stroke.
Right now, let Valdespin play; he's an electric talent. Everyone keeps saying that he's so raw, but the only way to get more refined is to constantly be in the lineup.
Not many players can say they are not in the starting lineup the day after hitting a walk-off grand slam. Sure, the Mets are facing a lefty, but again, you have to give Valdespin the exposure.
Same goes for Lagares. If Collins can find him regular at-bats, that's one thing. But if Cowgill is getting the start over him, then he should be playing every day in Vegas.
Maybe I haven't given this enough time to properly play out, but there's no point in having a prospect sit on the bench in the Majors when he could be refining his game every day in the minors.


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The Big Show
It's understandable that Cleveland Browns President Mike Holmgren feels friendly enough with Seattle media to speak to one of their radio shows.
Join Mitch as he speaks with former Seahawks coach and current President of the Cleveland Browns Mike Holmgren. 950 KJR Podcast Link
(PS I love Mitch's show. Follow him on Twitter here (http://twitter.com/kjrmitch)
After all, he coached the Seahawks to multiple NFC west titles and their only Super Bowl appearance.
But, Mikey, you probably shouldn't have gotten cozy with Seattle media the same week your Cleveland Browns are hosting the Seahawks.
Reportedly, Holmgren was already rubbing the Cleveland media the wrong way for being difficult to reach during the team's struggles on the field.
It appears he did himself no favors by opening up to the Seattle media.
During the interview, Holmgren spoke of adjusting to Cleveland "because of the people" and noted that his children and grandchildren still live in the Seattle area.
When asked how long he expected to run the Browns, he said, "I'm pretty sure it's not going to be 10 years.
I'd like to see improvement here and lay the foundation here so that they can feel good about the team again before I make any changes."
Holmgren went on to express his frustration over the Tennessee Titans barring his former Seahawks quarterback, Matt Hasselbeck, from speaking with him before a Browns/Titans game earlier this season.
Do Cleveland media have a legit gripe?
Based on Holmgren's comments, it certainly seems like he openly misses Seattle and doesn't plan on hanging around in Cleveland for too long.
Speaking of Mike Holmgren have you checked out our Mike Holmgren articles this week?


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Provincial Unease
November 2014
The first known portrait of a skilled manual worker: "The Tailor" (1565-70) by Giovanni Battista Moroni (image: The National Gallery)
This is a good time to be an overlooked Renaissance master. A couple of years ago Federico Barocci was exhumed by the National Gallery, dusted down after centuries of neglect and revealed as a significant painter of the late 16th century. Now it is Giovanni Battista Moroni's turn.
Moroni, c.1520-1579, has also been hiding in plain sight. Because he lived and worked outside a courtly sphere, in an arc of towns to the north east of Milan — Bergamo, Brescia, Trent and Albino — he existed outside the artistic mainstream. He was, however, widely collected in the 19th century and indeed London has the greatest number of his paintings after his native Bergamo. Nevertheless, despite being a portraitist of unusual acuity, whose subjects included the working man as well as the well-to-do, and a religious painter of distinction, he faded from view. If Moroni has been known for anything it is as a painter with an unrivalled mastery of black.
The exhibition of 45 of his pictures at the Royal Academy is his first major outing since an earlier "rediscovery" exhibition in Bergamo in 1979. He is well worth re-rediscovering. Titian praised Moroni as a painter who made his portraits "from nature" and while the best portraitists are routinely praised for the "psychological insight" evident in their works Moroni's nevertheless have an exceptional degree of interaction with the viewer. There is rarely anything innovative about his poses but his sitters frequently look out of the picture from the corner of their eyes, as if the painter had caught their attention wandering and suddenly spoken to them to make them look at him again. It is that unguarded instant he paints.
He was unusual too in the breadth of his clientèle. He painted not just minor grandees and their scions but figures from Bergamo's literary world, such as the female writer Isotta Brembati, as well as tradesmen. His portrait of The Tailor, 1565-70, is the first known portrait in Renaissance art of a man involved in skilled manual work: replace the shears in his hand with a sword and he would pass for a provincial buck — his dignity is in no way compromised by his trade (indeed tailors, like today's couturiers, could become spectacularly rich).
There is often too a slight wariness to his sitters, as perhaps befits their provincial status. While some, such as the elderly local nabob Gian Girolamo Albani, painted c.1570 in a fur-trimmed gown that echoes his white beard (is he the sitter for Veronese's 1555 Portrait of a Gentleman in the Pitti Palace as an older man?), are at ease in front of the painter others have an appealing self-consciousness. Isotta Brembati, for example, despite her spectacular damask gown of green and gold, looks deeply uncomfortable to be the subject of his gaze. Gian Gerolamo Grumelli — painted c.1560 — a young man standing in a stage-set Classical villa and dressed head to toe in the coral pink of his family's coat of arms, is an extraordinarily unlikely cavalier.


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5 Tips To Keep Your Writing Resolutions
This time last year, I had no idea where or how I was going to get work. I put in place a few objectives and motivational attitudes to help steer me right. Actually, I put them in place a few years ago after my previous routine/approach had seemingly hit a plateau. I'm all about practical application so when things don't go according to plan, I try to look to myself as much as possible in order to take responsibility and change things accordingly. So, if you've lined up some New Year resolutions, here are 5 tips that may help you as they have helped me.
1. Effective change is gradual
Don't try to splurge into a whole new regime based solely on New Year euphoria. Work up to what you want to achieve. If your goal is to write 10 pages per day but you've never done that kind of routine before, it would be better to start with a more realistic target, perhaps writing 5 pages per day, or even fewer, 1-3 pages. You've a better chance of maintaining your New Year resolutions past January if you don't over-burden yourself with unrealistic demands.
2. Be In The World of Story Every Day
If you can't write every day (and let's face it, sometimes it's not practical), at least try to 'be in the world of story' every day. Read a script, doesn't matter if it's produced or if it's another person's spec. Think about what works and what doesn't, and why. Watch a film, and break it down with a similar analysis. Read a chapter of your favourite (or even most hated) screenwriting book, or refresh your memory on a subject matter that's always niggled at you. Basically, keep your mind involved in the mechanics of story, and let it fuel your inspiration for your own writing.
3. Pick a time, start a routine.
You know your diary better than anyone so identify key times to help you stay devoted to your resolutions. Get up earlier. Stay up later. Whatever works for you. Write in your lunch break. A free half hour in your schedule shouldn't automatically mean 'check the internet'. Instead, it could enable you to brainstorm a few ideas, or work out a character's backstory, or prompt you to got outside for a walk and clear out the brainhole. Get into a groove of creativity, and before long the fresh behavioral patterns will establish a new routine.
3. Time Management
There are more distractions than ever before. Mobile phones constantly feed us pointless notifications, and we immediately respond or engage. Twitter/Facebook can suck you in and waste a morning, or a whole day (or more?!). However, whether you're freelance or still holding down a full-time job, your writing day can still be broken down into productive chunks. Two-hours of focused activity is a good way to go, with 15 min breaks to divide the next set, and 30mins or an hour for lunch. There are time management tools like Mac (PC) Freedom that turn off the internet for however long you want and that's a good way to start managing your time.
4. Mind, Spirit & Body
Sitting down for 6-8 hours a day by yourself in isolation is not entirely healthy. Physically, it's bad for the back. Emotionally, it can be quite draining. Take care of yourself and your body. Eat well. Drink lots of water. When taking a break, get up and move around. Find an exercise you can at least tolerate and make it your new hobby (revert to tip 3 but keep in mind tip 1). Socialise with writer friends, someone who can understand and relate to your tales of writing joy/woe. Read a book for pleasurable purposes, or something well beyond your genre tastes. Similarly with TV and film. Don't close yourself off. Keep your mind open.
5. Think Long Term
It's not just a New Year, it's a New You. Resolutions don't need to be temporary or just for one year's purpose. When done well, your routine could establish a whole new era of opportunity and productivity. To bolster this notion, think about where you want to be in two years' time. Set realistic targets. For example, in two years' time (or before), you could aim to get an agent. In three years' time, you could aim to write for EastEnders. In five years' time, you could aim to write/direct your debut feature film. All of this is achievable (and more) with the right application and approach. Tempus fugit, people. Use it or lose it.
Want more tips like this? Get the UK Scriptwriter's Survival Handbook, available on Amazon!
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Not all plants will be finished in class, but all will be started. Students should pick one to take home completed. There will be plenty of hands-on experience to be able to complete the projects at home. The class is labor intensive, not hard. All skill levels are welcome.
|Instructor Carol Wagner, IGMA Fellow in Plants
Go to the Good Sam Show Academy website for a detailed class description and to see more photos. You will also find information about attending the Academy and the Registration Form. http://goodsamshowcase.miniature.net/goodsamacademy.htm


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Wednesday, February 3, 2010
My Shabby Pink Christmas Tree
6 comments:
You rock! thank you for your inspiration and sharing with us!
Pam in Indiana!!! ♥x♥x
- December 3, 2010 at 11:33 PM
- Victoria Sayer said...
Ok, so I'm a little late getting to this post. But, it IS very appropriate at this time of the year. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and absorbing every last detail of your magnificent Christmas tree. Wonderfully decorated! So very very very pretty. And, I can totally relate to what you wrote about 'finding your old friends' and being delighted to uncover a 'beautiful bargain' bought after the Christmas before, and not been displayed yet. Don't you just LOVE Christmastime?
I have finished decking out our home for Christmas, and have posted the different rooms on my blog. Please feel very welcome to drop by for a peek, if you can get the chance.
Thanks Sandy, for sharing your lovely creative talent with us in the Land of Blog. Hope your days are Merry and Bright.
- December 7, 2010 at 5:30 AM
- Cindy said...
Beautiful magical tree...
- December 10, 2010 at 1:28 PM
- Coco said...
There is nothing shabby about this tree! it is whimsical,magical and beautiful! It makes me dream of Narnia and other far away lands. I really LOVE it!
- December 13, 2010 at 5:09 AM
- Cindy said...
This tree is absolutely beautiful! Would you come decorate mine:-)
Happy Holidays!!!
- November 9, 2011 at 9:37 AM
- obaid301 said...
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- June 11, 2013 at 2:57 AM


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The next two weeks with school ending are just way too busy. Class parties, field days, dance festivals and finding lost library books have all been at the top of the priority list. Add to that trying to keep things running at home and finishing getting the garden planted and moved and I'm beat. TIRED. Ready to crawl in bed shortly after the kids do at night.
The only thing stopping me? My painful knee. I started noticing the pain in it last week shortly after one of my workouts. I stopped working out for a few days, and just started up this week, but it just continues to want to plague my light duty workouts. And it loves keeping me up at night.
So that's the reason I'm writing instead of staying warm under the covers. Again the weather has cooled and made getting the garden ready next to impossible. What gives with the weather here this spring?
And then there's Sunday. I crave a good Sunday meal. My husband and I have very different opinions on what a Sunday meal should be. To him, it should be a pork roast or something with beef. Mostly a meal centered around meat.
I had some extra gouda left over from another meal I made. And I feel bad letting things go to waste. Wasted food is wasted money. And nothing is a saving if you end up wasting it.
So I did an internet search and came up with these stuffed gouda and bacon pork chops. I know I'll get some comments on it not being vegetarian or vegan. And I'm sorry. I couldn't find anyway to take the massive amounts of meat and cheese out of the recipe. Surprisingly though, one pork chop is only 398 calories. And they did turn out looking so nice.
- 2 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/8 cup chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 center-cut, bone-in pork chops (boneless pork chops can be substituted)
- 1 teaspoon olive or canola oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat or preheat skillet on medium on the stove if cooking inside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the cheese, bacon, parsley, and black pepper.
- Lay the pork chop flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife held parallel to the board, cut a pocket into the pork, going all the way to the bone, but leaving the sides intact. If using a boneless pork chop, cut a pocket, stopping 1/4 inch away from the edge of the pork with the knife. Stuff cheese mixture into pocket, and close with a wooden toothpick. Brush the meat lightly with oil, season with salt and more black pepper if desired.
- If grilling, lightly brush the grill with oil. Grill over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, or until pork is done. If cooking inside on a skillet, cooking times and instructions are about the same as outdoor grilling times.


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Easy cat cookies recipe
7 ounces mashed sardines
1/4 cup dry non-fat milk
1/2 cup wheat germ
Mix ingredients up. Roll into 24 small balls. Place them on greased cookie sheet. Flatten them with a fork. and bake at 350 degrees until brown.
9 comments:
- AnonymousJanuary 31, 2010 at 12:44 PM
but okay. ;D
- AnonymousMarch 16, 2010 at 10:42 PM
my cat really likes these kitty treats and she will do anything for them.I even taught her to dance!ReplyDelete
nice how did you learn this? my kitty loves these very much!!! thanks!ReplyDelete
I'm in love with kitties, so I was determined to make these treats, and I succeeded!!! XDReplyDelete
- AnonymousMay 31, 2010 at 5:09 PM
i tried this and my cat loved it thanks for the recipeReplyDelete
I am glad you all liked the recipe, just keep coming back I always have something new to share with you :)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousOctober 22, 2010 at 5:11 AM
i don't understand... i thought cats couldn't have cow milk? shouldn't we be substituting with cat milk instead??ReplyDelete
In the Easy Cat Cookies Recipe above it calls for 7 ounces of mashed sardines. My question for you is should I be including the oil/water that comes in the sardine can as well, or is that not included in the recipe?ReplyDelete
This sounds like such a wonderful cat treat, and I agree with you that homemade cat food is a gift of love! I am excited to make it, and excited to receive your other recipes! Thank you so much!
ps: approximately how long should this recipe be cooked?ReplyDelete


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This study will use several different tests to measure the effect of LY450139 on both A-Beta amyloid and amyloid plaques for some patients. The build up of amyloid plaques will be measured by a new brain scan that can take a picture of amyloid plaques in the brain.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a fatal degenerative disease of the brain for which there is no cure. AD causes brain cells to die. AD is thought to be caused by an excess of A-Beta amyloid, a sticky protein in the brain that forms amyloid plaques. At autopsy, AD patients are required to have these amyloid plaques in the brain in order to have a definitive diagnosis of AD. Inhibiting the enzyme gamma-secretase inhibits the production of A-Beta amyloid as measured in blood and spinal fluid in humans tested thus far and in blood, spinal fluid and brain in animals tested thus far. This study will use several different tests to measure the effect of LY450139 on both A-Beta amyloid and amyloid plaques for some patients. The build up of amyloid plaques will be measured by a new brain scan that can take a picture of amyloid plaques in the brain. Other tests will attempt to measure the overall function of the brain and brain size in some patients. In this trial, patients who initially receive placebo (inactive sugar pill) will at a certain point in the study be switched over to active drug, LY450139. In other words, all patients will eventually receive active drug. Each patient's participation will last approximately two years. Patients taking approved AD medications may participate in this study and continue taking these medications during the study. All patients who complete this study will have the option to continue receiving LY450139 by participating in an open label study.
Ages Eligible for Study: 55 Years and older
Genders Eligible for Study: Both
Accepts Healthy Volunteers: No
Inclusion Criteria:
* Meets criteria for mild to moderate AD with Mini-Mental State Examination score of 16 through 26 at visit 1
* Modified Hachinski Ischemia Scale score of less than or equal to 4
* Geriatric Depression Scale score of less than or equal to 6
* A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT)scan in the last 2 years with no findings inconsistent with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease
* If female must be without menstruation for at least 12 consecutive months or have had both ovaries removed.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Is not capable of swallowing whole oral medication
* Has serious or unstable illnesses
* Does not have a reliable caregiver
* Chronic alcohol or drug abuse within the past 5 years
* Has ever had active vaccination for AD
Contacts and Locations
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00594568
Contact: There may be multiple sites in this clinical trial 1-877-CTLILLY (1-877-285-4559) or 1-317-615-4559
Locations and More Information
The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People with Alzheimer Disease and Memory Loss in Later Life


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03 Sep Rebekah Hartman
Rebekah Hartman
"Find yourself again, not because you are broken, but because you are a divine design that is wanting to remember its wholeness and brilliance". -Jennifer Kass
Clinical Social Worker In McKinney Tx
Let's start with the basics, shall we? My name is Rebekah Hartman. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been working with adults, children, adolescents and families for over 6 years.
I am part of the Texas Sand Play Society and the C.G. Jung society. And I have been part of the Dallas School of Metaphysics for 3 years.
I have personal experience in the areas of; grief, alcoholic family dynamics, codependency, al-anon, surviving a parent's suicide, surviving marital affairs, and teen pregnancy.
I have prior experience working with youth in the juvenile system (general offenders, sex offenders, and substance use offenders). I worked closely with these families through group counseling in order to aid in the preparation of their youth transitioning back home and back into society in a successful way. I also have prior experience working with runaway and homeless youth and hospice patients.
I enjoy working with adults, children and adolescents in all areas, however, more interest in the areas of; depression, anxiety, maladaptive behavior, life transition, codependency, grief, feminine empowerment and those in the end of life stage.
The orientation of my therapeutic approaches are rooted in a Jungian, existential, holistic, spiritual/universal, and mindfulness foundation.
In session I will use a variety of techniques and approaches, such as, but not limited to: sand play, dream interpretation, meditation, deep breathing, thought identification, schemas, behavior modification, expressive art and play, etc.
As a young child I remember writing down my dreams and trying to uncover the meaning behind them. I always felt that dreams were valuable and sacred and as I grew into adulthood I started studying the unconscious. I found that the unconscious parts of ourselves are directly linked to the soul. And with that being said, the soul parts of ourselves have a very strong longing to shift in order to become closer to our divine blueprint..our highest self. We are all able to reach this higher state of being by accessing and honoring the unconscious. I respect the unconscious and what the unconscious can activate and uncover in the therapeutic journey, which is why I have directed my career passions and my focus of expertise to sand play therapy and dream work. Both of which activate the unconscious by using its very own sacred language of symbols.
What I strive to give my clients the most is a free and protected space to emote all of which that has been hiding in the shadows and causing pain and suffering. I will give my best efforts to provide that protected space in session for all of my clients.
For me, I feel the grand outcome of counseling isn't really about "change" or "fixing" a certain symptom or behavior. It's really not about "change" at all; it's more about remembering. Remembering and coming back home to our wholeness as we were as an infant, before life traumas fractured and wounded us in a way that caused a split from our highest self. And these splits being what caused us to forget that we are limitless beings capable and worthy of all desires and happiness. Join me in remembering.
"Find yourself again, not because you are broken, but because you are a divine design that is wanting to remember its wholeness and brilliance". -Jennifer Kass
And lastly I would like to leave you with my personal mantra; "To become a whole functioning self, not dependent on any person, place or thing, for peace, contentment and security" –School of Metaphysics
Texas A&M University-Commerce (BSW)
Texas A&M University- Commerce (MSW)
Licenses and Certification
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
CCA Therapist Since
Joined CCA in 2015
Recent Article
They have great staff and therapist. I like that they most information, groups and supportive articles on bulletin to help parents and clients learn more.
Fully confident with Todd Lawhorn's ability to help us and our nine year old son.
Pleasant office staff and excellent therapist.
Friendliness of their staff and willingness to accommodate clients, their facility is very well maintained, and of course, my LPC - she is wonderful!
Everyone is very polite and professional
The staff is friendly and organized. I adore my therapist, Suzi. She has helped me process my experiences as a cancer survivor.
The counselors are genuine, caring, and professional. The office staff is very helpful.
The customer service and attention to detail are some of the best features that I have found so far at CCA. I enjoyed being able to talk to a real life person when I call, that is my favorite part!
I was very impressed by the counselor. Staff worked to help me get in as soon as possible.
Great staff and counselors!!!
I like the person we meet with and the flexible hours, evening hours.
The staff are amazing. Friendly, and compassionate.
My Counselor Tammy Williams is wonderful and has helped me work toward a healthy mental state.
Always friendly, always helpful. Always go beyond the expected.
I love the friendliness, people and our counselor. It always feels safe and caring. We always seem to stay on schedule.
Customer service was amazing ! My therapist was a no-nonsense kind of guy who really supported and understood my issues.
Susie Hales is the most gentle, patient, caring, non judgmental, genuine and professional soul I have ever meet in my life. Where would I be today without her listening to my so many years of tremendous hardship? She helps me understand and grow! I absolutely would recommend CCA.
Lana Snear is so wonderful. She just listens, and helps me get through what I was trying to do on my own, unsuccessfully. Also, the office staff is so friendly and helpful. I appreciate how simple and easy the check in process is.
Great counselors, nice front office staff. Peaceful environment. Professional on all levels.
The counselor we use (Kim House) is outstanding with our child. I would highly recommend her.
Mark was very relatable. I'm excited to continue working with him
It is a caring, family like atmosphere.
For me personally, Suzanne Hales...simply said, she is second to none as a great teacher, guidance counselor, honest and true friend. The rest of the staff that I have met are courteous and efficient.
The office staff is friendly and helpful. The therapist who work there seem to be knowledgeable. They also have a very diverse group of therapist which can treat a diverse group of clients.
Wonderful, caring, and attentive counsellors who make a real difference in our family's life. Front desk folks are very helpful. Thanks Val!
Tami is the best therapist I've ever worked with. Scheduling, billing and insurance process has been easy and effortless.


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Hope for the Hopeless
"This is awful."
Isaac and I drove home in virtual silence. The disappointments were mounting. After getting accepted to his first choice college, Isaac had been unable to go. It was just too expensive, in spite of his numerous scholarships from the school and even one from a local church. Now he was waiting on his second choice school but it would be months yet.
We'd just put Brandy and Faith on a plane back to Germany, but finances had forced me to stay behind. I had no return ticket. No plan for when I could go home. We were both stuck in limbo.
"Heard back on any of your job applications?" I asked.
He just shook his head. The pneumonia had interfered with all of his plans. No friends. No job.
"Maybe next week we can drive out to Barclay." The tiny college I'd graduated from in Kansas was hovering in the number 3 or 4 slot on Isaac's list. "Have a little father/son road trip."
Isaac smiled softly. "That'd be fun, Pa."
While I was trying to line up appointments for my extended stay, I texted admissions over the weekend and setup accommodations for us Monday night and a tour Tuesday morning. So, after a long slow weekend, the two of us set out for Kansas.
A six hour trip quickly became eight. As we neared the tiny town of Haviland (population 703), a big sign reading "I'd turn back if I were you" seemed almost prophetic. The town was so small, we drove right past it and had to turn around, but we found the school.
18 hours later we were back in the car driving home.
"What did you think?" I asked.
"As plan B," Isaac answered, "I would be happy to go there."
The next morning dawned bleakly. I had no new appointments.
"Dear Lord," I prayed, "I don't know what you're doing, or why you're doing it this way… Help me. Please, Lord. You're always there when I need you. I know you're hearing me now. What do I do?"
When I'd finished praying, I walked upstairs to see Isaac. He looked like I felt.
He'd been waiting for today since his arrival. He was to audition for the church music team, but the leader couldn't make it and they would have to reschedule. He felt a bit like the only thing he was looking forward to had been taken away. Both of us sat looking at one another in shared commiseration. We felt hopeless. I started talking, trying to suggest activities that Isaac might enjoy, and all of the sudden, he sat bolt upright, his eyes lighting up.
"What?" I asked.
He started to slump immediately. "Nothing." He said. "It's crazy. It doesn't make any sense."
I smirked. "None of this makes sense." I said, "Let's hear it."
"What if I just go to Barclay right now? This semester." he replied. "But, then I'd have to take out loans and it… it's just crazy."
I was glad that he was leery of loans, but I knew they'd be very small in this case, so I told him to go ahead and submit the application and I'd get started on finances.
The rest of the week was a whirlwind. Isaac submitted his application Wednesday, was accepted Thursday and we were back in Kansas moving him into his dorm on Saturday. Everything seemed like a perfect fit. By the time I was driving back to Colorado on Sunday afternoon, Isaac was on the soccer team, had found a good church, scheduled an audition for the worship band and was joining the school choir. I could see God's hands all over this moment that was tailored precisely for my son.
The next morning, I was back in a darker place.
"Yes, Lord, it's clear to me I needed to be here to help Isaac step into the amazing plan you have, but," I whined vigorously, "I'm still stuck here — no closer to having the money raised!"
The foolishness of it, the ingratitude is embarrassing, but I'm being honest.
Between fruitless attempts to raise money, I tried to contact the finance office at Barclay. Isaac was in classes, but I still didn't know how much the bill would be. I expected we'd need an additional $3000-4000 to be paid over the remainder of the year. Finally, I got the finance guy on the phone.
"I've got all Isaac's info here, I just have to put it into the system." He told me.
I listened to his clicking keys for several minutes. Then came the big number.
"First semester," He informed "Isaac will owe $1247 and $1248 next semester."
I got payment instructions and we agreed to talk again the next day. As I hung up the phone, I got thinking about Isaac's church scholarship. I called them on the phone.
"Yes. Isaac has already talked with us, we're directing the scholarship to Barclay."
The scholarship was $1250 a semester. I was floored. Here I was, questioning God and his plan, his ability even to work out our convoluted finances. But God had known all along, where Isaac would end up and how much it would cost. He'd arranged it all perfectly from the beginning, though we'd been unable to see it until all the pieces came together.
It's still hard to contemplate our financial situation. But I've been powerfully reminded just how good and generous our God can be, when we're seeking him and walking in his will. It's not that getting there wasn't difficult. Of course, it was. There were powerful moments of hopelessness and despair. And yet, God delivered on such a sweeping scale. How can I not have confidence in his plans for our ministry and financial provision? Praise the Lord!
August Newsletter Vol II
We've just put a follow up to our August letter out in email, I don't know if this one will have a print run, as the computer is already packed for our return to Germany. We aren't fully funded yet, but God has encouraged us, and we're returning to Germany in faith that the remainder of the funds will come. This newsletter tells a little bit of that story, tells you how you can hear Ted's interview with Hugh Hewitt, and also shares a little problem you may have emailing us.


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Looking for inspiration I flipped through some old posts about real fighting. And then I mean the flashing, fierce, furious kind, which we try to simulate in our role playing games.
Then I noticed one of my linked through videos about bucklers was gone (copyright reasons)... So I looked up a few other nice SCA and swordfighting ones. As food for thought.
Here they try to hit each other harder, with foam blades.
Guess that Armour Class, Hit Points and THACO don't really simulate this for me!
Or how about Pennsic, with a full scale battle? Notice how both parties don't seem to look forward to full contact for a while. Even if they carry foam blades.
And then there's this view of the 2011 Viking festival in Wolin, Poland... with more realistic weaponry.
How to get that kind of feeling in to your RPG? Would be nice eh?