text:
"Is that Russian salad?" Account Executive Jane Poretsky asked, peering but really more accurately leering at the uniformly diced, mayonnaise-coated ingredients on a platter in front of me. How badly I wanted to say no. "Yes! Do you want some?" She veered towards the elevator with a passing "No no no no no please no."
Jane's parents are Russian—that is, they were born and raised in the Ukraine while it was part of the Soviet Union. While immigrating to Brooklyn in 1989, they were introduced by a mutual friend in Italy and fell in love; her mom arrived in the U.S. first, and after 8 months of love letters, her dad was granted entry, too. Soon followed Jane and her brother, who were fed such classic Russian dishes as mayo-based salads—and apparently a lot of Italian food. (Crying yet?)
Stolichny Salad, the one I was torturing her with, is an updated version of classic Olivier Salad, which is in fact the quintessential Russian salad (good eye, Jane). The recipe is from the new CCCP Cook Book by Olga and Pavel Syutkin, a concoction of potatoes, carrots, eggs, onion, pickles, chicken, tinned peas, and mayonnaise.
If it helps to think of this mess as a love child between potato salad, egg salad, and chicken salad, please do.
Considered "the mandatory dish at any festive occasion" after its invention in the 1860's USSR, Olivier salad was a combination of "capers, grouse, crayfish tails, and black caviar, among other ingredients" that was most often enjoyed at New Years. Eventually, chicken replaced grouse, tinned peas went in for capers, and carrots for crayfish—a chef named Grigory Ermilin dubbed this updated and arguably more palatable combination "Stolichny Salad" in 1939.
The reason for making this dish—despite Jane thinking I'd done so to torture her—was that the ingredient list was notably akin to a traditional and similarly festive Southern salad that I grew up eating. Rather unlike Jane, I was born into a family of longtime East Tennesseans; we made (and still make) a recipe called "Layered Salad" at Christmastime and special occasions.
To make Layered Salad, you break out a clear glass bowl—even a trifle dish, my mom tells me—and layer one ingredient on top of another in this order: finely chopped Iceberg lettuce, raw onion rings, chopped celery, chopped green pepper, cooked and drained frozen green peas, a whole pint of Hellman's mayonnaise, grated hard cooked eggs, crumbled cooked bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
After letting it sit for half a day, during which the flavors are allowed to meld—and in the case of the onions, mellow—the salad can be easily transported as the layer of mayo acts as a sort of airtight seal. The lettuce won't brown, and it's all mixed together before serving alongside roast beast or turkey.
The salads certainly differ: Stolichny is uniform in nature like an egg salad, due to a consistent dice and cooked ingredients, and gets its nuance from pickled cucumbers and dark-meat chicken. I'd like to eat it spooned onto saltines—or fried toast—with a pickled banana pepper or slash of hot sauce on top.
"The liberal use of mayonnaise meant the fresh ingredients did not have to be of high quality," write the Syutkins of the Soviet-era mayonnaise salads, and I don't doubt the same reasoning went into the creation of the like-minded though Southern Layered Salad. Mayo, of course, has a very long shelf life and gives creamy heft to even simple ingredients—think of ranch or blue cheese dressings. More a side salad than a tartine topper, the Layered Salad is characterized by sharp raw onions, grated eggs, and a lot of bacon, with plenty of audible raw vegetable crunch. We eat it alongside all kinds of holiday mains and sides.
I won't deny that the current trend in salads—a riot of colors, textures, and vivacious dressings—is in direct opposition to these mayo-dressed ensembles. But they do have a place in history and on our tables, if only because your Russian Southern mother says so. The recipes:
See what other Food52 readers are saying.


text:
Rev. Charles W. Sine 95, WW II veteran, devoted pastor
Rev. Charles W. Sine, 95, of Manheim, formerly of Telford, Dublin and Perkasie, entered into the presence of His Savior, Jesus Christ, Monday, Feb. 25 at the Pleasant View Rehabilitation, Manheim.
He was the beloved husband of Trudi (Sommer) Sine for 37 years and the late Harriet (Heavener) Sine.
Born in Perkasie, he was the son of the late William R. and Carrie (Benner) Sine.
A 1936 graduate of Sell-Perk High School, Charles later took courses at Taylor Business School, Philadelphia, and attended evening school at Philadelphia School of the Bible.
He was a U.S. Army Air Force veteran of World War II, having served as a sergeant in the Signal Corps from 1941 to 1945.
Charles and his first wife, Harriet, graduated in 1949 from the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago with a degree from the Pastors Course. In the years to follow, Charles would pastor churches in Traverse City, Mich.; Cleveland and Swanton, Ohio; and North Hills.
Following their 1975 marriage, Rev. Sine and Trudi were engaged in an itinerant ministry of chalk art and music until 2004.
Charles and Trudi were long-time members of Calvary Church, Souderton.
In addition to his wife, Charles is survived by his five children: Heather Hegedus and her husband, David, of Manheim; Hedy Eckel and her husband, Paul, of Greenville, S.C.; David Sine and his wife, Gina, of Langhorne; Daniel Sine, of Telford; Spring Sine, of Ephrata; 14 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his first wife, he was preceded in death by a sister: Ethel Weisel; three brothers: Joseph D., William R. Jr., and George H. Sine; and two daughters-in-law: Lena Sine and Susan Sine.
A Celebration of life service was held March 4 at Calvary Church, Souderton. Burial with full military honors followed in Whitemarsh Memorial Park, Prospectville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Rev. Sine's name may be made to the Calvary Church Benevolence Fund at Calvary Church, 820 Rte. 113, Souderton, PA 18964.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
It's no secret that China suffers from some of the worst air quality in the world, but how does abhorrent air quality affect people who work or exercise outdoors? I want to see if I can tell the difference between exercising on a clear day versus a day with an 'unhealthy' air quality index to compare how I feel.
For this video, I did 50 pull-ups, 100 push-ups and a one-mile run outdoors in 'unhealthy' levels of air pollution. Nothing too serious, but enough to get my blood pumping and my lungs breathing heavily so I could absorb plenty of those air particles.
Result: the air pollution is visibly noticeable for this experiment, but I couldn't tell the difference in the way I felt compared to exercising in clear weather. If you're curious about the effects of working out outdoors in abhorrent air pollution, it's safe to say that you won't die. That said, I still try to keep my outdoor exposure to a minimum on smoggy days.
The only thing worse than smoggy air is a person who complains about it, especially when that person smokes cigarettes. If you want to live or travel in China, it's just a fact of life that you'll have to deal with pollution, even in relatively clean cities like Rizhao.
Broccoli: the pollution solution
A study done in China by the Journal of Cancer Prevention Research found that broccoli consumption can help our bodies cope with air pollution by eliminating ingested airborne pollutants at a faster rate. Think of broccoli as a human lung filter.
China's cleanest & dirtiest cities
Considering a move to China but concerned about air quality? According to Greenpeace, the top cities in China for cleanest air quality in 2013 were:
- Haikou, Hainan Province
- Lhasa, Tibet Automonous Region
- Xiamen, Fujian Province
- Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province
- Fuzhou, Fujian Province
- Kunming, Yunnan Province
- Huizhou, Guangdong Province
- Zhuhai, Guangdong Province
- Shenzhen, Guangdong Province
- Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province
The top ten cities in China with the dirtiest air quality in 2013 were:
- Xingtai, Hebei Province
- Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province
- Baoding, Hebei Province
- Handan, Hebei Province
- Hengshui, Hebei Province
- Tangshan, Hebei Province
- Jinan, Shandong Province
- Langfang, Hebei Province
- Xi'an, Shaanxi Province
- Zhengzhou, Henan Province
Due to geographical disadvantages and poorly enforced emission laws, Hebei has seven of the top 10 most polluted cities. Let's just hope those folks eat lots and lots of broccoli.


text:
Final Placing: 7th (4 wins, 6 losses)
The Netball NSW Blues overcame a slow start to the season to finish with four wins and six losses in seventh place on the 2010 New Idea Australian Netball League ladder.
NNSW Blues coach Lisa Beehag shared the court time amongst all players, keeping the team fresh by changing up the combinations each game.
The NNSW Blues opened their season with three losses, losing to eventual champions Victorian Fury, third-place finisher the Australian Institute of Sport and the Canberra Darters. But they turned it around to hold off the Territory Storm and claim a two-goal victory in their fourth game of the season.
Following a loss in the local derby against the Waratahs, mid-courter Paige Hadley was brought into the team midway through the season to replace the injured Breeana Powell and she gave the team some added depth ahead of a tough triple-header weekend in Round 4.
Despite the challenge, the NNSW Blues produced their best performances of the season in Round 4. Against Western Australia the Blues fought back from a four-goal deficit at half time to level scores with one quarter to play. The teams traded goals in the fourth quarter but when WA scored their 57th goal, the Blues ran out of time, losing by one goal, 57–56, on the Friday night.
The NNSW Blues were able to quickly recover the next night and managed to topple eventual fifth-place getters South Australia by 21 goals, 65–44. Whilst SA got away to an early lead, the NNSW Blues' defensive pressure combined with patience in offence gave them the edge they needed to topple South Australia.
They followed that confidence-boosting win with a commanding 53–40 victory over Tassie Spirit. The Spirit had lifted to defeat WA the previous night and stuck with the Blues in the opening half, but were overpowered by the NNSW Blues in the second half.
The team was unlucky to lose another game by just one goal, to fourth-placed Queensland Fusion in Round 5. The NNSW Blues blasted out of the blocks and led by four goals at halftime but Fusion was doggedly determined and chipped away at the NNSW Blues' lead before sneaking ahead to take the narrow win. The NNSW Blues recovered from the loss to finish off their season in emphatic fashion with a 65-20 demolition of Singapore on their home court at Anne Clark Centre.
Round 1:
NNSW Blues 33 lost to Victorian Fury 58
NNSW Blues 41 lost to Canberra Darters 45
Round 2:
NNSW Blues 33 lost to AIS 54
NNSW Blues 40 def Territory Storm 38
Round 3:
NNSW Blues 35 lost to NNSW Waratahs 64
Round 4:
NNSW Blues 56 lost to Western Australia 57
NNSW Blues 65 def South Australia 44
NNSW Blues 53 def Tasmania 40
Round 5:
NNSW Blues 47 lost to Queensland Fusion
Netball NSW Blues
Breeana Powell, Manly Warringah
Alix McDermott, Penrith
Anita Blanco, Penrith
Vanessa Mullampy, Inner West
Emily Keenan, Eastwood Ryde
Ashlee Weir, Manly Warringah
Gabi Simpson, Parramatta Auburn
Abbey McCulloch, Sutherland Shire
Madeleine Smith, Sutherland Shire
Samantha Poolman, Parramatta Auburn
Jessica Calderara, Eastwood Ryde
Nicole Styles, Penrith
Lisa Beehag, Coach
Moira Gaha, Assistant Coach
Donna Harrison, Manager
Brett Doring, Physiotherapist


text:
The Truth About Happiness (that no one is talking about)
"When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down 'happy'. They told me I didn't understand the assignment, and I told them they didn't understand life" - John Lennon
I came across this quote recently and it got me thinking...
It got me thinking about the truth that at the core of every goal and every desire, what we are all really after - is happiness.
In fact, so often where ambitious people tend to lose this connection, is that they focus on what they think will bring them happiness ('a means to an end' goal) rather than the end goal itself.
Let me explain this with an example...
a 'means to an end' goal would be something like, 'make 6 figures.' But making 6 figures itself is not exactly what you're after...it's what you believe you will be experiencing when you're a 6 figure earner that you are truly after (such as comfort, contribution, freedom, and accomplishment).
So here we are, focusing on the 'means to an end' goal (6 figures), rather than the end goal itself (comfort, contribution, freedom, accomplishment) and at the end of the day we wonder why we aren't happy. We wonder where it all went wrong...where we went wrong. We think something is inherently wrong with us for not being truly happy, yet no one ever taught us how to get there, let alone to even really consider what that might actually look like for us.
Sadly, it's created a world of generic, general goals we are all chasing because we think happiness is on the other end of that achievement. And some of us are so far deep 'in it' that we feel stuck on how to get out. There's so many bills to pay and so much to do..."how will I ever have the time to consider my happiness?!? I'm just trying to get through the day."
And you know what? That's a choice people make over and over again, every day until they don't have to 'just get through' anymore days.
So then it got me thinking about a solution, rather than just the pain. And I started to seek the truth of what it actually takes to create a happy life.
I started thinking about what in my own life has made me happy....I mean really, truly happy. The things that get me out of bed every day with a smile on my face.
Here are 5 things I came up with:
- my love relationship and how extraordinary it is; how we work daily to keep it extraordinary and how we both stand for our relationship with integrity and compassion and decided that it comes before all else.
- my work in the world and how creative I get to be, as well as how I get to contribute to others lives in a meaningful way.
- travel. Learning about new cultures, foods, beliefs, ways of life. And in particular traveling to countries that have given me a deep sense of gratitude for the life I live.
- my 'possibility' mindset that keeps life exciting, like a game or a piece of art. I am always thinking, "what's possible? What's next?" It fuels my imagination and innovation and allows for me to engage daily in the wonder of life. This mindset allows me to create powerful life changing beliefs, such as, we all age, but getting old is a choice (these beliefs in turn have me making very different decisions about my life and what is possible for me)
- my health. the fact that I have endless resources at my finger tips (we all do) for staying healthy, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
So then I started asking myself, "what did I have to do and who did I have to become to create this happiness in my life?"
What I noticed loud and clear was eye opening...those things above, called me to develop a deep and profound relationship with CHALLENGE.
It took me committing to those desires/creations and then showing up for them everyday...even when it was hard, even when I wanted to run and hide, even when I wanted to give up, even when I thought I wasn't good enough, even when I saw clearly the easy way out (excuses) was right there for me to choose, if I wanted.
Here is the truth no one is talking about...creating a life of happiness takes energy, focus, commitment, perseverance, tenacity, courage, and us 'getting ok' with CHALLENGE. Happiness does not = a challenge-LESS life. Happiness = getting out of your comfort zone.
The important thing to understand and the good news...the more you do it, the bigger the challenge you need to actually challenge you. It's like training your muscles. When you first start, everything hurts. And then you keep showing up even when it gets boring, or hard, or you aren't seeing results fast enough...and then pow! one day you realize your 'new normal' is different. Things look and feel different. You aren't challenged as much by what challenged you before. You are now working out weekly for maintenance, rather than creation. Well, that's how it works across the board my friends.
I remember when it was SO hard to deal with myself when I was in conflict with someone I was dating. I always ended up leaving that relationship, rather than doing the challenging thing and exploring where I was showing up again and again with the same old patterns. The extraordinary relationship I am now in is the best thing I have ever been a stand for, and it comes with a cost, it comes with challenges. You think mediocre relationships come with challenges...well how about you decide to create an extraordinary one! But guess what my friends, those same challenges also come with the most mind boggling, heart uplifting, soul nourishing rewards as well.
Same with owning my own business...holy moly do I want to scream and run from it sometimes. I wear so many hats that it takes the most insane organization skills (and support - I don't know what I would do without my support) to keep it all together. And not only does it challenge me mentally and financially, it challenges me emotionally. My work is my life and often keeps me up at nights thinking about it. But you know what, I would not change it for all the money in the world. I wake up each day EXCITED for the challenge. I feel so deeply blessed to do the work I do and spend my days doing what I love and what I am good at. But was it challenging to get here? oh my lord, yes! And does it still have it's challenges? certainly, those challenges are just different now. In the past few years, I have learned to appreciate challenge, in fact I self create challenge all the time. I create things in my business I DON'T KNOW if I can accomplish. I stretch myself and challenge myself so that I can be part of the 'truly happy posse.' Because you know what, I haven't met a happy person yet who doesn't challenge themselves, who doesn't step out of their comfort zone often, who doesn't take risks.
Their perspective about life and possibility is full of curiosity and REALITY around what it takes to actually BUILD the life they want. They aren't complaining...they are creating. And most importantly...they understand what a privilege it is to have happiness so accessible to them.
And here is the kicker, from what I can tell so far, challenge is going to exist in your life no matter what choice you make...so you might as well make the choices that are truly going to make you happy.
So, are you complaining or challenging yourself and creating the life you actually want? Or maybe you are just wishin' and hopin' it'll fall into your lap one day by doing the same things you've always done?
In other words… are you more focused on SURVIVING than you are on THRIVING?! Which do you think is the choice that will bring you true happiness?
If you are really ready to rise to the challenges that go along with creating a truly happy life, and bring your big change-making dream(s) into the world with power and presence, to truly create a life of fulfillment - then I invite you to explore how The Changemakers Circle can support you on that adventure. I am here to show you that creating an extraordinary life is not only possible, it's fun!
Learn more and apply here: http://www.ambercampion.com/the-change-makers-circle
In honor of building an INSPIRED world that is...
Focused on growing, giving, and celebrating
Free from living a life of 'should's'
Fulfilled personally, professionally, and spiritually


text:
Mmm I love papaya salad but I love the Laos & Khmer style better than the Thai! Looks yummy though, Cindy! Good job!
Growing up there's always one thing I look forward to in April, and that's Cambodian and Thai New Year. Temples are filled with food stalls selling a variety of street food, and the one food I look forward to the most is Papaya Salad. I grew up with authentic Thai Papaya Salad after living near a Thai Temple for majority of my childhood. One thing that always surprises the elders is that my sister and I would order our papaya salad with everything in it, including the salted crab. This salad is sweet, sour, spicy, and savory, which is perfect for spring and summer. So to celebrate the upcoming New Year, I'll be sharing my attempt in making a Thai Papaya Salad – the nontraditional way. Please note this is not a recipe post, since I'm still learning how to make this dish. It's not perfect, but hey, practice makes perfect.
Before preparing the ingredients, I shredded a unripe green papaya using a papaya peeler. Make sure your papaya is very green because any hint of yellow or pale green means that your papaya is ripen. Unripe papaya also has a long list of health benefits such as aiding digestion and increasing your metabolism. After, I got out some Thai red chili peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and lime. I wanted to add more Thai Chili, but mom thought it would be too spicy.
I'm cheating a bit for the sauce, but I'm using this Som Tam sauce (image below: left) that you can find in your local Thai grocery market. This sauce listed tamarind and fish sauce as part of the ingredients, but I feel that it's not strong enough so I added more tamarind paste (image below: right), and a bit of fish sauce into this salad.
I'll be using a large clay mortar (about 9″ in diameter) and pestle to combine all the ingredients. First pound the garlic and chilies. After, I mix in the sauces.
Next, I mixed in the shredded green papaya. From watching my mom, and the elders at the temple, I noticed that you pound while using a large spoon in the other hand to help toss the salad. By the way, this was a very good arm workout haha.
Lastly, I add in tomatoes. I was trying to find some long green beans, but we didn't have any in the fridge. My dad passed by and (made me) add in some chopped dried baby shrimp. My dad wanted me to add roasted peanuts, but I really didn't want it in the dish haha.
Well, this was my attempt at making Thai Papaya Salad. Papaya Salad is great on its own, but in our family we love eating it with fried chicken or fried tofu. One day, I hope to make it just as good as the one I buy at the temple.
– Cindy


text:
details;frame building remodel
Architectural solutions are enriched through experiences in allied design; the process develops a practiced access to the intuitive character of design and broad understanding of methods and materials.
architecural interiors
scale, space, layers of finish and detail
A seamless integration of existing and new elements is principal to the success of the historic restoration. An arts and crafts dining room incorporating custom features in the Mackintosh style of furniture and decorative crafts.
Allied Arts
A spectacular integration of art, architecture and furniture in an aesthetic derived from the important Asian artifact on display. A decorative entry sympathetic to the original historic character of a unique Reginald Johnson designed estate.


text:
SINGAPORE, Feb 19 (Reuters) - Singapore's move on Monday to raise stamp duty on expensive home purchases is likely to dampen the recent wave of redevelopment sales in the city-state's recovering property market, analysts said.
From Tuesday, the wealthy city-state will apply a new top marginal rate of 4 percent stamp duty on the portion of residential property value in excess of S$1 million ($761,615), Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said in his budget speech. The current rate ranges between 1 and 3 percent.
Heng said the move was a progressive tax and came against the backdrop of suggestions to tax the rich more.
(For a full story on the budget click)
Analysts said the stamp duty hike was marginal for individual home buyers, but may end up prompting developers to become more cautious on "en bloc" or collective deals, where they buy entire apartment blocks and re-build them with more units.
"For example, some of the big sites that have a S$1 billion price tag, the increase will be very significant," said Christine Li, director of research at Cushman & Wakefield in Singapore. "The developers will have to fork out 1 percent, which means the (asking) prices will have to probably come down, so that will help to dampen the en bloc market."
Singapore's central bank warned in November about "excessive exuberance" in the city-state's property market, urging developers to take into account upcoming supply when bidding for land.
Data from property services firm Colliers showed that a total of 27 residential collective sales with a combined value of S$8.13 billion ($6.2 billion) were transacted in 2017 - the best showing since 2007 when S$11.6 billion ($8.83 billion) were transacted.
Just last week, Singapore's biggest property developer Capitaland Ltd said it would buy a centrally located apartment block for S$728 million to redevelop.
The spate of en bloc residential sales have come as Singapore's private home market stabilised in 2017, recording its first annual price rise in four years, at 1.1 percent.
Analysts said the stamp duty hike meant developers would have to factor in an additional cost in their redevelopment purchases.
"With this, it will mean that there will be an additional layer of conservativeness," said Derek Tan, an equity analyst at DBS. ($1 = 1.3130 Singapore dollars) (Reporting by Aradhana Aravindan; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)


text:
It all started when…
In the wake of the Challenger accident in 1986, The Astronauts Memorial Foundation was founded. AMF honors U.S. astronauts and astronauts who flew with U.S. crews on American Space Ships, who have lost their lives while on a U.S. government mission or in training. Twenty-four astronauts are now honored by AMF.
AMF is a private, not-for-profit organization approved by NASA to build and maintain two major facilities at the John F. Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex:
The Space Mirror Memorial, designated as a national memorial by Congress and President George Bush, was dedicated in 1991.
The Center for Space Education, the "living memorial", was opened in 1994. Its mission is to foster an understanding of space exploration and to improve education through technology.
Both of these facilities are truly gifts to the nation from the people of Florida. Most of the funds for constructing and maintaining these facilities have been proceeds from the sales of Florida's Challenger Columbia license plate. AMF receives fifty percent of the proceeds from the sale of the plates.
Thousands of corporations, foundations and individuals have also made contributions to AMF to support the facilities and the programs of the Foundation.


text:
Western Name: Sonata
Eastern Name: ソナタ
Kana Pronunciation: そなた
Gender: female
Age: 20
Release Date: January 1, 2016
Group/Team: Project Sonata
Technical Details
Voiced by: kamika
Managed by: kamika
Voicebank Distribution
Sonata currently has seven
These voice banks can be used freely by creators in songs for personal and commercial use.
Japanese - VCV | monopitch (download temporarily retired)
English - VCCV | monopitch (download temporarily retired)
Korean - CV-VC | monopitch
Japanese - VCV | tripitch
English - VCCV | tripitch
Japanese - VCV | screamo (omake, monopitch)
Japanese - VCV | child (omake, monopitch)
Voices are available to download on her website.
*It was announced on her twitter that she will be receiving two appends called PIANO (soft) and FORTE (power), along with kamika confirming an in-progress Spanish voicebank during a YouTube livestream. Release dates unknown.
*Short demos of the beta appends have been posted on the Sonata Clyp page, and a beta version of PIANO was used in an official demo, "Jessica" on the YouTube channel. PIANO has been very well-received so far.
*The Sonata twitter teased something special being released on Sonata's 2020 anniversary.
Terms of Use
R-18 Content Allowed? See Additional Terms of Use
Commercial Use of Voicebank Allowed? See Additional License Terms
Commercial Use of Character Allowed? Unknown
Do these terms apply to derivative characters/voices? Yes, even to derivatives created without permission
Click here to view the terms of use for this UTAU.
[* Click here to view commercial license info for this UTAU.]
Voice Sample(s)
Character Details
"She wants to help inspire you!"
Name: Sonata
Gender: female
Nationality: American
Age: 20
Height: 5'8 (176cm)
Hair color: purple
Eye color: light blue
General likes: classical music, early morning, and winter
General dislikes: tomatoes, the sound of crickets
Personality: changeable, but usually she is depicted as a kindhearted virtuoso
Release date: 01 / 01 / 2016
Timbre: strong+mature
Sonata has a twitter account, and retweets any covers she's used in.
Follow @utausonata for updates and news.
Sonata was voiced by YouTube singer ShokoraOto, who has changed aliases over to kamika to pursue Vocaloid song production and illustrating.
Sonata is featured on the album "The Light Current" and "Creation".
All proceeds are donated to the Depression and Bipolar Alliance or the National Association for Music Education. A third community-collaborative album is currently in the works.
Albums can be purchased here for $5.00USD


text:
Happy Easter, everyone!
I am very pleased and honoured that my Young Adult vampire novel, BLOOD FAMILY, is appearing on the enthralling I Love Vampire Novels website today!
Learn more about the story, and, in my interview, the journey I took which led me to write the tale of the powerful half-vampire teen, Daniel Dark…
From the site's 'About' page:
"I Love Vampire Novels" began as a simple Facebook page where people who were totally into the best Vampire Books could go, hangout and post stuff about what they were reading.
But after the fan base grew to over 10,500 people in under 5 days, well… let's just say it was time to expand a bit.


text:
Date Added
Job Type
Adult Psychiatrist needed for 100% outpatient 20 minutes from DC. This facility needs coverage from 8-20 hours per week for approximately 3 months. Maryland license required. An excellent support staff is already in place. The doctor will work with psych nurse practitioners, registered nurses, counselors, social workers and an outstanding administrative staff. If you can see yourself in a rewarding opportunity like this one seeing about 10-15 patients per day with a flexible schedule contact me now.
How to Apply
If you are interested and would like more information, please contact Kristen Malone at 270-792-5742 x241 or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com regarding job number MD115L


text:
A teachable moment missed
Kids say the darnedest things.
That's how you know they're kids. Their fondness for rash overstatement is part and parcel of a stage of life characterized by impulsiveness and an unshakable faith in one's own righteousness.
The challenge for schools is to balance kids' impetuousness against their right of free speech.
That brings us to Morgan Hill, Calif., where several boys recently decided to wear American flag T-shirts to Live Oak High School. The boys, some of whom are Mexican-American, did this on May 5 -- Cinco de Mayo, as their classmates (nearly 40 percent of whom are reported to be Latino) were celebrating that Mexican holiday, some even wearing the red, white and green of the Mexican flag. Moreover, they did it in the context of a contentious national debate over illegal immigration from Mexico.
In that context, on that date and in that place, the decision to wear those shirts was not innocent but, rather, a calculated provocation. Assistant Principal Miguel Rodriguez, calling the shirts "incendiary" and fearing a fight, asked the students to either take the shirts off or turn them inside out. When several of the boys refused, he sent them home.
The school district disavows the decision and conservative critics have lambasted it as un-American. They're right.
At least, I think they are; the Supreme Court has been less than definitive in setting the boundaries of free speech for students. In 1969, it sided with three kids suspended from school for wearing black armbands in protest of the Vietnam War, ruling that they could not be prohibited from expressing their opinions if they did not interfere with the operation of the school or the rights of others.
Subsequent courts have edged away from that affirmation of relatively unfettered rights, allowing schools to ban sexually explicit student speech in one ruling, and speech that seems to promote illegal drug use in another.
Still, it is hard to see this latest incident as anything but an abridgement of those students' First Amendment rights -- not to mention an act of glaring hypocrisy. By what reasoning does Rodriguez ban red, white and blue while permitting red, white and green? All that said, though, neither of those complaints addresses what seems to me the most regrettable aspect of this affair. Namely, the fact that this educator missed a teachable moment.
Imagine if Rodriguez had corralled the most articulate of the T-shirt boys and the Cinco de Mayo celebrators and required them to research and represent their points of view in a formal debate before the entire school. The T-shirt kid could have challenged his classmate to explain why he felt the need, if he is an American, to celebrate a foreign holiday. The classmate could have pressed the T-shirt kid on why he felt threatened by a simple acknowledgment of heritage and cultural origin.
Maybe they reach an understanding, maybe they don't. But in any event they learn a valuable lesson: that reasonable people reason their way through disagreements. And that the First Amendment confers not just a right to speak your piece, but an obligation to allow the other guy to do the same.
Instead, Miguel Rodriguez taught the opposite lesson: that it is OK to ban the unpopular or provocative opinion. Few things could be less reflective of American ideals.
Contact Pitts, a columnist for the Miami Herald, at email@example.com.


text:
I was headed to a meeting last week and I had a talk with my ego. This is not something I've done until recently, but I'm doing more.
I address my ego by name. I looked over at the seat. "Rhino," I said. (That's my ego's name.)
"I love you. You are the man. You are awesome. I appreciate you for everything you do. You have helped to shape me into who I am today. But, right now, I don't need you to come this meeting with me. In fact, I prefer if you stay in the car. I'm going to be good without you! I can handle it. So, I'll see you later."
The ego. Rhino rides through life with me, making me do things I don't want to do. But, I do want to do.
Richard Rohr says that we should change "flesh" in the Bible, especially with Paul, to ego.
I agree. It would make a lot more sense. (Especially when John begins his book with the idea of the Word becoming flesh... and that was apparently pretty awesome. So this flesh stuff is not all bad.)
The ego has done some good for us as we've grown and become who we are. But now, it's mostly damaging. It's that thing that we are all fighting.
I think we can boil it down to the ego and the divine in each of us. In constant battle.
The ego loves to belittle to make itself feel better.
The divine already knows its the best.
The ego loves to congratulate itself that it's not like them.
The divine already knows we're all the same.
The ego says we earned it.
The divine says it's all a gift.
The ego says they are evil.
The divine says they are children.
They ego loves bad religion.
The divine is repelled by it.
If we really want to know exactly what the ego looks like in human form, we can look at the Pharisees.
If we really want to know exactly what the divine looks like in human form, we can look at Jesus.
They don't get along well at all.
Jesus came to free the ego from its chains but in order to do so, the ego had to acknowledge the audacity of love for everyone.
It couldn't handle it. So it killed the divine.
We've got be careful of the ego. It's still killing the divine in people everywhere. It's still killing the divine in us.
You might want to let it know that you would prefer it didn't.


text:
It is the policy of Spadework to ensure that all goods are supplied in perfect condition
If you are not completely satisfied with your unused purchase, please return it to us within 28 days along with your receipt for an exchange or refund. Items must be returned in their original packaging and must be complete. When returning perishable items, they should still be within the use by date on date of receipt.
Damaged Items
You have the right to return a damaged item within 28 days along with proof of purchase.
Incorrect Items
If we have sent you the wrong item, please tell us as soon as possible or within 3 days and return the incorrect item to us. If you would like us to replace the incorrect item with the item you ordered, we will send you the correct item as soon as possible or alternatively we will refund the item once it has been returned.
Complaints Procedure
We strive to provide the highest level of customer service, however sometimes we will get things wrong. We welcome and take complaints very seriously as it helps us to learn and improve our service.
If you would like to make a complaint about our service or goods, please e-mail us at firstname.lastname@example.com or telephone us on 01732 870002.
We will deal with any complaints as quickly as possible which will usually be within 5 working days.


text:
Subscribe To Family Guy's Seth MacFarlane Helping To Bring Back Cosmos Updates
I've already subscribed
Science has produced a vast array of important discoveries to make our life easier, better, and sometimes just plain more fun. It could be argued that to the average person the 1980 13 part series Cosmos was the most important scientific event since the moon landing. Carl Sagan wanted people to understand that while fairy tales, fantasy, and movies could produce wonderous ideas there was a universe surrounding us all with more wonder than any film could hope to capture. Cosmos explored how incredible reality is, and how the universe is possibly the most magical of places.
Thirty years after Cosmos began its inspiration of what would become nearly 500 million people, Fox has announced that they are updating Sagan's work. Seth MacFarlane (yes, the Family Guy creator…we'll get to that in a moment) has signed on to produce the new series with writer/producer Ann Druyan and astrophysicist Steven Soter. The new 13 part series, titled Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey, will be hosted by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. So you'll be watching Dr. Tyson speak, rather than Brian or Stewie from Family Guy.
At first glance, seeing MacFarlane's involvement, it makes you wonder how seriously they're taking the project. MacFarlane has always struck me as intelligent and I'm sure he loved the original series. I know I did. Then you hear how Sagan's widow, Ann Druyan, has been trying to get this redone for years. No networks were interested. They couldn't see the upside financially. It took MacFarlane, who is at this point a big shot with Fox, to help finally get the series made.
Seth MacFarlane is helping to reinvigorate the public's lust for scientific knowledge, and no matter how cynical you are that is just plain cool. The new Cosmos is being produced with the National Geographic Channel, which will reair episodes. For those who are into the fantastic, if often repetitive, series Universe on History Channel you'll find that Cosmos is like a super concentrated (and more awesome) version of that show.
The genius of Cosmos, which you can get a taste of in the clip below, is that Sagan made convoluted scientific concepts accessible to everyone. Not just average guys like me who are already interested in science, but people who are insistent that they do not like science because they don't understand what it all means. Sagan was able to take concepts like Kepler's Law and present it so that it was comprehensible to the average person.
Cosmos: A Space-Time Oddyssey is slated for release in 2013 on Fox.


text:
Cyber PSYOP Primer – Sneak Preview
I have just submitted an article to Perspectives, the PSYOP Association Professional Journal. Since Cyber PSYOP is a topic near and dear to my heart, I'm kind of pressed for time this week in DC, and because I would like to encourage readers of my Blog to read Perspectives, I'm providing a summary of the article as this week's Posting.
History has shown that the US DOD has a strong tendency to favor kinetic operations even in the face of a nimble and capable opponent. The discipline of PSYOP has been ignored for years to its detriment. As we enter an era of uncertainty with respect to potential enemies and adversaries exacerbated by shrinking budgets, while it is readily acknowledged at the highest levels of our government that Cyber Security is important, there is almost no attention given to Cyber PSYOP.
Cyber PSYOP, simply stated, is the application of PSYOP principles to electronic media, systems and networks. Unlike many other forms of PSYOP, CP operates at all levels: strategic, operational and tactical. The virtual nature of CP blurs the lines of deployment so that even the most tactical of attacks, say on a targeted individual, can spider web out through cyber space and rise to the strategic level.
Target analysis is critical in CP because CP can be employed with laser like focus against individual targets through their devices (e.g. smart phones), their social connections (e.g. Facebook, Linkedin, MySpace, etc.) or more broadly aimed at larger groups such as government bureaucrats who are on the same network or within the same department, agency or bureau.
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) for Cyber PSYOP involves target profiling and technology profiling.
CP is an important part of our influence operations arsenal. Its importance is directly proportional to the technology reliance of the target. The more reliant the target is on technology, the more susceptible they will be to CP.
I believe that within the next few years CP will emerge as a mainstream discipline ahead of the employment of CNO as a warfighting systems. CP will prove itself in urban conflicts to come. However, the nature of CP also appeals to our enemies. They have shown themselves to be creative and adaptive and at times far more nimble then we are. Consequently part of our CP resources must be devoted to developing and executing counter CP operations to minimize the impact of enemy CP and insuring that we dominate the information battlefield.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Libya: Who is in charge of the attack? An important PSYOP/MISO Issue.
My time in Bosnia during 1997 – 1998 taught me quite a bit about the practical aspects of running an alliance. In some respects an alliance is like a family and not everyone gets an equal vote all the time. The Stabilization Force (SFOR) had the advantage of being a NATO entity. While this wasn't a perfect construct, at least there were some basic rules over who did what, how the force was organized, funding mechanisms and doctrine.
Photo Source: Wired; URL below
According to President Obama: "First of all, I think it's very easy to square our military actions and our stated policies. Our military action is in support of an international mandate from the Security Council that specifically focuses on the humanitarian threat posed by Colonel Qaddafi to his people. Not only was he carrying out murders of civilians but he threatened more. He said very specifically, we will show no mercy to people who lived in Benghazi.
And in the face of that, the international community rallied and said we have to stop any potential atrocities inside of Libya, and provided a broad mandate to accomplish that specific task. As part of that international coalition, I authorized the United States military to work with our international partners to fulfill that mandate." (source: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/03/21/president-obama-answers-questions-libya-testament-men-and-women-uniform; accessed 22 March 2011).
Let's take a look at a couple of key phrases here: "an international mandate from the Security Council", "international coalition"; and "work with our international partners". Does this mean that the Secretary General of the UN is the "Commander" of the Libyan mission? Do all of our international partners get to task our aircraft and prioritize targets?
The NY Times reported that the US is moving swiftly to hand command over to our allies (see http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/22/world/africa/22libya.html?_r=1; accessed 22 March 2011). Does this mean a French or British flag officer will have opcon (operational control) over US forces in the Med?
Does this ersatz coalition have a formal HQ with a combined, joint Military Information Support task force? Are the influence operational objectives clear? Has the coalition taken the necessary time and effort to craft a coordinated information operations effort to include Computer Network Operations, Public Affairs and EW to maximize the effectiveness of the fighting force and minimize the danger to friendly forces?
Frankly I believe many of these questions remained unanswered as our planes streak over Libyan skies. At first blush it would appear that the President has moved swiftly to answer the political mail, and is now trying to minimize his and our collective exposure.
As with any operation, plans don't often survive first contact and there is already fog in the media. The President implied that the US took the lead because "Our ability to take out, for example, Qaddafi's air defense systems are much more significant than some of our other partners." (same source as above) and that fine military authority, "Wired" reported on secret PSYOPs and Commando Solo (see http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/03/secret-libya-psyops/).
If there's a formidable air defense system, you wouldn't be seeing Commando Solo flying around. And, by the way, where is the funding for this operation coming from as the defense budget continues to get pruned.
Overall it would appear that we are potentially on the precipice of yet another military mission in a Muslim nation with the potential of fanning the flames of other conflicts and perhaps offering an excuse to jump start fundamentalist efforts in other parts of the globe.
I applaud President Obama for his nimbleness, but let's hope we don't get burned jumping over the latest candlestick.
Posted by Lawrence Dietz at 7:43 AM No comments:
Labels: Afghanistan, Air Force PSYOP, Al Qaeda, CNO, Cyber PSYOP, IO, LIbya, NATO, Navy
Monday, March 21, 2011
PSYOP and Libya: Quick Comments
1. US and allies blamed for horrific civilian deaths. Gory pictures of children will be shown. I would not put it past COL Q to inflict these casualties himself if there are no 'real' ones he can exploit.
2. Anti-US fervor to be stoked any place where they need an excuse.
3. Given that Libya does not have a strong military class nor a middle class, there is a great deal of uncertainty as to how the country could be reconstituted under a new ruling government or how it might be partitioned into a new rebel led territory and the balance led by COL Q. Should this happen, the Western powers would have to remain in place until COL Q goes.
4. Any new government might be fundamentalist in nature and present a whole new set of issues.
Just my take off the top.
2. Anti-US fervor to be stoked any place where they need an excuse.
3. Given that Libya does not have a strong military class nor a middle class, there is a great deal of uncertainty as to how the country could be reconstituted under a new ruling government or how it might be partitioned into a new rebel led territory and the balance led by COL Q. Should this happen, the Western powers would have to remain in place until COL Q goes.
4. Any new government might be fundamentalist in nature and present a whole new set of issues.
Just my take off the top.
Posted by Lawrence Dietz at 10:17 AM 1 comment:
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Something Different: IO and Terrorists
Today's posting is something a bit different. Following is a concept paper I drafted for a colleague. Essentially I took the IO capabilities of DoD and then provided analysis on Terrorist employment of those same capabilities.
Comments and input are welcome of course.
Photo Source: http://samsonblinded.org/blog/osama-too-good-to-be-true-part-1.htm
Terrorist Use of Information Operations (IO)
COL (R) Lawrence D. Dietz; General Counsel & Managing Director Cyber Security,
TAL Global Corporation
I Introduction
The US Department of Defense employs Information Operations to influence the course of battle and act as a combat multiplier. Terrorists are also very successfully employing IO and technology to their advantage. This short paper will give you an overview to assist you in future research.
II Department of Defense IO Capabilities
Reference: http://www.carlisle.army.mil/usawc/dmspo/Publications/Information%20Operations%20Primer%20AY11%20Web%20Version.pdf; Accessed 15 Mar 11
A. Core Capabilities
1. Psychological Operations (PSYOP) now Military Information Support Operations (MISO) – operations designed to influence the behavior of the target in line with CDR's Concept of the Operation (CONOP)
2. Military Deception (MILDEC) – actions taken to shield true capability from the enemy (e.g Patton's fake Army in the UK as a decoy for the Normandy invasion.
3. Operations Security (OPSEC) – all measures taken to shield information from adversaries and enemies
4. Electronic Warfare (EW) – dominance of the electronic spectrum, actions can include jamming to deny the enemy is communication, actions taken to identify enemy electronic emitters to facilitate identification of their units, other order of battle information, targeting for interception or jamming.
5. Computer Network Operations (CNO)
a. Computer Network Attack (CNA) – denying the enemy the use of their IT networks.
b. Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) – using the enemy's network for friendly advantage, e.g. intelligence collection, communications medium, storage of hostile software code, etc.
c. Computer Network Defense (CND) – defending one's own network
B. IO Supporting Capabilities
1. Counterintelligence
2. Combat Camera (Air Force Unit that provides still and video camera support)
3. Physical Attack
4. Physical Security
5. Information Assurance – protecting electronic information
C. IO Related Capabilities
1. Public Affairs = Public Relations; a conduit to the media and creator of print, and broadcast media.
2. Civil Military Operations – military forces employing civilian skills to improve the life and infrastructure of a local population.
3. Defense Support to Public Diplomacy – Department of Defense support to the Department of State's Public Diplomacy Operations
II Terrorist Use of IO Capabilities
A. Core Capabilities
1. Propaganda – Terrorists are making exceptionally good use of the Internet as a means to inform, influence and recruit. They are also being supported by 'friendly' media such as Al Jazeera which tends to spin the news in a way that is favorably received by the Arab Street. Terrorist propaganda is especially effective due to the speed with which they capitalize on events that serve their purpose. This rapid response is indicative of a streamlined or de-centralized chain of command and abbreviated approval cycle.
Allied information support operations tend to be much more cumbersome due to the heavy ROE and complex approval schema which can often include both military and civilian command cycles.
2. Military Deception (MILDEC) – In my view terrorist operations tend to be decentralized although they employ deception to shield their true intentions and make very effective use of 'cover' identities.
3. Operations Security (OPSEC) – Terrorist cells are generally quite secure due to their decentralized nature. Most terrorist organizations appear to have a very healthy respect for Signals Intelligence and will avoid electronic means of communications such as mobile phones to avoid detection. Trade craft to include steganography (the concealment of messages in pictures) is also employed along with other measures such as compartmentalized chat rooms, common password schemas, etc.
4. Electronic Warfare (EW) – Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) are often remotely detonated via mobile phones, garage door openers, etc. I am unaware of any large scale terrorist jamming efforts to date.
5. Computer Network Operations (CNO)
a. Computer Network Attack (CNA) – Experts believe that terrorists will employ cyber attacks in conjunction with a kinetic or physical attack. CNA may be employed prior to or subsequent to the kinetic attack depending on the type of operation.
b. Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) – Terrorists, and nation states for that matter are routinely probing networks of interest. Terrorists are likely to employ a combination of human agents to infiltrate target organizations to be in a better position to exploit networks directly or to insert malicious code (such as the Stuxnet reported planted to damage the Iranian Nuclear Research program) for later execution.
Exploitation can also include gathering intelligence from the network. Terrorist cells must be self-financing. Harvesting data (personally identifiable information or PII) that allows them to steal identities which in turn allows monetization through theft of funds, goods or services is very effective.
Terrorist cells can also exploit networks by gathering information that may be of use to the movement in some way such as to identify potential funding sources or gather target information.
Terrorists are employing the Internet as a cost effective and for the most part, relatively secure communications channel. Their global operations lend themselves to Internet communications for availability, cost and security reasons.
c. Computer Network Defense (CND) – Unable to comment.
B. IO Supporting Capabilities
1. Counterintelligence – No comments
2. Combat Camera – Terrorist organizations make effective use of still and video cameras. They also exploit images captured by other sources such as the media.
3. Physical Attack – Mumbai type attacks are very likely to increase. They require a small footprint, are relatively low in cost and very difficult to defend against. They are very effective at exploiting soft targets which in turns results in dramatic chaos which is then exploited through the media and by the Terrorists' own sources.
4. Physical Security – No Comment
5. Information Assurance – See Opsec Above
C. IO Related Capabilities
1. Public Affairs = Public Relations; Terrorists are exceptional PR professionals. They understand the value of publicity, especially the emotional appeal of images. They are able to appeal to 'friendly' media to a very great extent.
2. Civil Military Operations – Hezbollah and the Taliban have been quite successful at using social welfare as a means to ingratiate themselves with local populations.
3. Defense Support to Public Diplomacy – Governments tend to hide their association with terrorist organizations.
Posted by Lawrence Dietz at 2:15 PM No comments:
Labels: CNO, Cyber Command, Cyber PSYOP, Cyber War, Information Operations, IO, MISO, PSYOP, Public Affairs, Public Diplomacy, Strategic Communications, suicide bombers, terrorism, terrorist
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Positioned For Troop Reduction? Who is PSYOPing whom?
The Washington Post of March 7, 2011 quoted Secretary of Defense Gates as indicated that the US was "well-positioned" for some troop reductions in Afghanistan in July. If you are a PSYOP (pardon me MISO) soldier, don't get your hopes up. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big supporter of Secretary Gates as seen in some previous posts, but my Brooklyn BS detector went off when I read that.
The Washington Post of March 7, 2011 quoted Secretary of Defense Gates as indicated that the US was "well-positioned" for some troop reductions in Afghanistan in July. If you are a PSYOP (pardon me MISO) soldier, don't get your hopes up. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big supporter of Secretary Gates as seen in some previous posts, but my Brooklyn BS detector went off when I read that.
While I have not been to Afghanistan, it strikes me that our information support operations forces be they military or civilian are stretched pretty thin. Furthermore, the tribal/rural nature of Afghanistan does not lend itself to mass marketing of any type.
At least Mr. Gates was straight forward by noting that reductions would be small and that a significant US force would remain behind. In theory, the notion of a military draw down should be a signal to NATO and to the US that the diplomatic information efforts need to ramp up. Civilian infrastructure and medical missions also need to be tightened up with realistic fiscal management and timetables coupled with accountability.
I'm still of the opinion that local economies are the fundamental building blocks in that AO. Villages and their traditional leaders will be there long after America departs.
Hopefully we and our NATO allies have the political will to insure a bottom up level of confidence and security otherwise, the terrorist elements within the country and those scurrying back and forth to Pakistan will once again ascend to power.
Posted by Lawrence Dietz at 3:35 PM No comments:
Labels: Afghanistan, NATO, Public Diplomacy, Strategic Communications
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Gates Speaks At the Point: Implications for PSYOP
While all the excitement in the Middle East continues to flutter about, I felt it was necessary to take a moment and ponder some of the deeper implications of Secretary of Defense Gates' final speech at West Point on 25 February 2011. (see http://www.defense.gov/speeches/speech.aspx?speechid=1539)
Picture Source: DOD Website; Secretary of Defense Biography
While all the excitement in the Middle East continues to flutter about, I felt it was necessary to take a moment and ponder some of the deeper implications of Secretary of Defense Gates' final speech at West Point on 25 February 2011. (see http://www.defense.gov/speeches/speech.aspx?speechid=1539)
Gates' last speech to the Corps of Cadets should be taken quite seriously. The Secretary has shown himself to be a confident and fair steward of the Department of Defense who has managed to serve well under two very different Presidents.
Gates made it clear that the Army, the proponent for Military Information Support Operations (MISO) formerly PSYOP will be especially challenged in the time ahead. The Army was singled out as the service most shaped by war and the service that has made great strides in adjusting and adapting to survive.
While the Secretary reaffirmed the need for "swift-moving expeditionary forces" he was quick to point out that no President should put Armies into Asia, Middle East or Africa. He further went on to say that future US engagement should be via sea or air.
He noted that our adversaries are quick to learn and dedicated to negating our advantages on the battlefield while employing our freedom of expression and the borderless cyber world as their communications channels. The Secretary also criticized the Army for its stodgy institutionalism that stifles creativity and embraces career planning better suited for the Cold War.
Frankly none of this is good news for PSYOP. The bi-furcated MISO chain of command, split between AC and RC has clearly shown that it is incapable of acting in a unified way to optimize the force. Diversion of funding to the Air Force and Navy will likely accelerate reducing Army resources even more.
Regrettably there is not very much that any of us can do about that. However, this means that SWC must work more closely with the other services to insure that MISO can operate employing a wide variety of platforms that will synergistically deliver the CDR's messages. This also means that doctrine needs to be crafted that recognizes the stand off nature of air and sea platforms and that capitalizes on satellite reachback to deliver broadband capabilities and foster communications among information operations forces.
I would encourage the services to engage in 'exchange programs' wherein the services station personnel, especially mid-grade NCOs and Officers (E6/O4) in each others' billets to further shape multi-platform operations.
We also need to insure that senior NCOs and Officers outside the PSYOP/MISO community are encouraged to rate MISO personnel based on their accomplishments and merits, not whether they play they game according to Cold War rules.
Posted by Lawrence Dietz at 5:09 AM No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text:
Shirts reflect your style and mood at work, play and at home. Do you have a favorite shirt that just feels wonderful to put on?
Check out our shirt collection of fitted shirts, casual, western, dress, formal and work shirts. Quality construction made with quality fabrics, we have your back covered with original vintage clothing!


text:
This year, OCSE has launched its first student blogger program and we're off to a great start thanks to two awesome bloggers: Chris Coughlan (Denmark) and Déjà Jackson (Japan). Both Chris and Déjà will be posting weekly so stay tuned… Continue Reading →
Only hours ago, the class of 2017 students participating in Skidmore's London First-Year Experience program arrived at the London Heathrow Airport to begin the fall semester in London! The group spent 3 days on the Skidmore campus in Saratoga preparing… Continue Reading →
One of our OCSE bloggers, Chris Coughlan, is counting down the days before he heads to Copenhagen for the semester through DIS. Check out his first blog post, researching his soon-to-be home for the fall semester! http://academics.skidmore.edu/blogs/chrisindenmark/
© 2019 creative thought travels — Powered by WordPress
Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑
creative thought travels is Protected by Akismet | Powered by WordPress


text:
Bloomington PrairieThunder Score With "Goals for Gas" Promotion.../
Is your organization looking for a way to capitalize on high gas prices?
The Bloomington PrairieThunder of the International Hockey League (IHL) created a "Goals for Gas" promotion that is paying huge dividends with fans. The team partnered with FS Fast Shop gasoline stations in Bloomington, IL to provide fans with two (2) cents off per gallon (for up to10 gallons) per goal on their gas purchase each time the team scores during games played at home.
Thus, if the Prairie Thunder score four (4) goals in a home game, fans receive eight (8) cents off a gallon of gas for up to 10 gallons during a 24-hour period after the stated time and date on the game ticket. Consumers simply have to show their game ticket to the gas station attendant to receive the promotionals discount, but are limited to one (1) discount per game. The team is also offering a drawing at each of its games played at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum where fans can have the chance to win a $500 gas card.
While 80 cents (off a $50 expense at the pump) may not appear to be an impactful offer, discounts on gas seem to have a different impact on consumers than traditional offers at retail... consumers gravitate to the fact that they have a chance to win the price war at the pump. Properties can consider implementing similar promotions for basketball (field goals for gas) and racing (laps for gas).


text:
Weight loss isn't one of my New Year's Resolutions. We should celebrate our growth of heart and mind this past year and reflect on our next opportunities for growth. And nowhere on this path of growth is weight loss.
It was a busy day of buzzing around and ensuring all of the logistical details were figured out for a big meeting at work. The meeting had gone well and there were several people who came up to me after the meeting and thanked me for the work I do for our organization. I genuinely felt valued. I also felt that I was contributing to incredible work and a good cause. I was flying high after the meeting. A simple conversation brought it all to a screeching halt.
"Alice, are you having another baby?"
The person who asked was genuinely excited for me. I was genuinely ready to vomit.
It wasn't the first time my body and the possibility of a pregnancy was the center of small talk. Yet, each time it happens I feel knocked off my footing. The confidence and elation that I held just minutes earlier sputtered out of my body like air in a deflated balloon. Usually, after these body interrogations, I shrink away; I have no words to even respond. Yet in this moment, words came to me, "No, it's just residual baby."
It was one of the first times that I had a body interrogation that I didn't leave the situation playing it over and over again in my mind, unable to move forward, and most importantly, I didn't feel awful about myself. Years ago, this situation would have weighed greatly on me. I would have sunken into a depression about my body, I would have decided to lose weight, and I would pledge to never wear the clothes I wore that day because they too were likely to blame for my appearance.
I've changed.
This most recent interaction didn't send me into a tailspin of sadness about who I am. I didn't let one person's comments bring me down. In the quick moment it happened, I forgave her ignorance. Talking about each other's bodies is inappropriate small talk. She hasn't learned that lesson yet. And I will not let her ignorance steal away a moment of my confidence or happiness. I won't carry her comment and my sadness like a heavy bag on my back, I let it go, right in the moment.
I share this story because I know a New Year brings an onset of resolutions, it can be a very difficult time, especially for those of us who struggle with body confidence. There are so many messages surrounding us about weight loss, weight loss competitions, elimination diets, and that our bodies as they are, simply aren't good enough.
For more years than I can remember, I put weight loss on my New Year's resolutions. I genuinely believed that I would be a happier person if I lost weight. Much of that theory was connected to the fact that I tied so much of my worth to my looks and weight. I spent my young adult life railing against the body I was given in any manner possible and I was never truly happy.
As an adult, I unsubscribed to those unhealthy methods. I eventually learned to accept my body in motherhood. It took me time to get here. I exercise for strength in my mind and body. I meal plan every week, making healthy meals for my family and myself. I buy clothes that fit me and make me feel comfortable, and I get rid of the clothes that make me feel otherwise. I participate in events and activities regardless of my weight, because life is short and my kids will remember my actions, not my size. And I do have set-backs. I'm not perfect. I do, however, know I am so much more than the size clothes, the number on the scale, or any assessment or assumptions other people make about my body.
Weight loss isn't one of my New Year's Resolutions.
Losing weight or gaining weight doesn't change who I am and believing it does, sends me on a chase for something I'll never catch. I'm not a better person when I weigh less. I am who I am now, not because of a scale number or the size in my clothes, I am who I am because of the time I invest in being the person I am on the inside, in my both my heart and mind, and with my words and actions.
I Plan to Gain in the New Year
What if instead of focusing each New Year on weight loss, we thought about how much we gained in our heart and mind in the last year?
What if each New Year, we thought about how much we hope to gain and develop in our heart and mind?
What if we stopped being so consumed by weight loss and used that time to better our heart and mind? What would we gain?
This past year, my focus was not on weight loss and I think about the many areas in which I gained. My resolution last year was to breathe new life into my own motherhood. I went back and read that post and was excited to see that the simple resolutions I held for myself last year were honored. I thought it would be helpful for me to write down five gains I've made in the last year, and five areas I resolve to gain in during this upcoming year.
The Five Gains I've Made This Past Year
- I gained the knowledge that I need exercise for the strength of body and mind. When I have felt my most overwhelmed this year, I turned to physical exercise. I found out I love spin class, riding my bike, and I've gained strength and endurance.
- I've gained experiences and lessons in the books I read this year. I've learned that reading is an essential piece for me in self-care and in being a more loving and empathetic person. I have to take this time for reading which means shutting off the television and social media.
- I've gained financial knowledge by seeking out information and advice in an area I wasn't familiar. I was embarrassed by my inadequacy but confronted it head on and started a new path to saving for vacations, budgeting for meals, and paying off debt.
- I've gained the responsibility to forgive family members and people who have hurt me, I've released the baggage I used to love carrying. I've gained the ability to move on much faster than I ever used to, even with people who ask me if I'm pregnant.
- I've gained the ability to prioritize self-care and take time to drink hot coffee, spend quality time with my friends, go on bike rides, and buy myself really fantastic lotions and body sprays.
The Five Gains I Hope to Make In the Year Ahead
- I'd like to start consistently doing gratitude journaling and gain a better appreciation for my life. I'm so sporadic with journaling right now and I feel like it would really help me if I could be more consistent with the practice of reminding myself each day about my blessings. There was a great article shared by the OptionB organization (I highly recommend the book, too) about gratitude journaling. They recommend writing down moments of joy, things, people, and actions you find as blessings in your life, and celebrating accomplishments.
- I would like to gain the knowledge of how to meditate. My mind is always buzzing and rarely do I stop to just be at peace in a calm moment. I'm going to seek out more information about getting into meditating and making this a regular practice.
- I want to gain more opportunities for physical fitness that bring me joy. I'd like to continue attending spin class and this year I hope to swim laps and attend yoga more or even find another class I might enjoy. I also really love riding my bike and as soon as the snow melts, I hope to make biking a priority, even if it's a simple spin around the neighborhood.
- I want to gain more playtime with my kids. I get really consumed with the daily logistics and often don't prioritize stopping and playing. Even when I set up an activity, I'll find myself tidying up and I want to get back to giving them concentrated time with me.
- I want to gain the ability to be better at showing up for people, both in my community and for people who I know who are hurting and could use kindness.
The New Year is a time to celebrate and also reflect. We should celebrate our growth this past year and reflect on our next opportunities for growth. And nowhere on this path of growth for me is how much I weigh or how much weight I lost.
I wish you a year ahead in which you can savor and celebrate who you are and are given the strength and ability to make the changes you wish to see in your heart and mind in this year ahead.
[bctt tweet="Weight Loss Isn't One of My New Year's Resolutions " username="diningwithalice"]
Photos by Sarah Hudson Photography.


text:
Ethiopia's Textile Industry On Rapid Revival
Textile sector is one of the priority areas of the second Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP II) which mainly aims to increase the export by one billion dollar strengthening the finishing works of Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP I) and the sector also expected to increase more than 300,000 jobs by the end of GTP II.
Bantihun Gesesse, Communication Director with Textile industry says that textile industry is expanding and growing quickly in Ethiopia with the massive involvement of both foreign and local investors. The government applies various incentives to investors who opt to engage in the sector.
The incentives include market linkage, chemical supply, quality and value chain development, technology adaptation, expanding investment, research and study and industry enterprise linkage.
Now a days 117 local and 80 foreign investors are created in Ethiopia increasing the flow of Foreign Direct Investment to the country. The sector which has been operating in the country for many years can be said to be coming out of the cold and showing rapid revival.
The sector is creating more than 90,000 job opportunities for Ethiopian citizens. For example a single industry is creating more than 7,000 jobs while an industry park like Hawassa, more than10,000 job opportunities are created. The sector plans to create more than 300,000 permanent and contractual job opportunities by the end of GTP II, he indicated.
According to him Ethiopia is naturally suitable for investors with the presence of suitable climate, incentives, infrastructure, abundant and competitive labor force, good policy and access to value chain
"The small and middle industries are expanding into higher industries and higher industries are growing into industrial parks. The government has put in place various incentives for both local and foreign investors." he further explained.
The support improves the performance of investors by enhancing their labor force and also modernizing the management system to increase the number of small industries that feed the large ones.
Government is also giving due support to the sector by adapting technologies from experienced countries, he added.
According to Bantihun the sector is working with three Indian companies to bridge gaps through skills development.
The sector generates 78 million Dollar in the first GTP II plan year and 89 million Dollar in this year which is a remarkable performance for the newly organized sector , said the director.
He further explained that cotton, strand and weaving products are main inputs of textile industry in Ethiopia and the remaining inputs are imported. However, there is a huge potential for cotton production which is the major input for textile industry.
The productivity of cotton is growing year by year. In 2015/16 total production of processed cotton is 43,000 metric tons which grew up to 55,000 tons a year later.
Cotton quality improvement activities are underway, according to Bantihun.
Read more at All Africa


text:
This is a great opportunity for Valley Divas! Courtney Mahon will be teaching a 6 lesson series at The Raven Golf Club in Phoenix beginning Nobember 3rd. The lessons are on Sundays with intermediate players in the morning and beginners in the afternoon session. Courtney has an amazing gift for teaching golf! To check our her bio and updates, follow her on Facebook by clicking here. Cost of the lessons is $195 and spaces are limited. For more details, view this flyer by clicking on the link?Courtney Mahon Golf Lessons?or email Courtney direct at email@example.com
If you cannot sign up for this series, we will feature new opportunities beginning in early 2014. ?To get on the email list for notifications email us at: email@example.com


text:
What Happens To My Job If I Have A Workers' Comp Injury?
Most people are aware that they are entitled to workers' compensation benefits if they get injured on the job in Colorado. However, they have no reason to learn about their specific rights and options until the day a serious work injury occurs. At that point – when you are worst-equipped to deal with them – the tough questions and complications can seem endless.
If I am injured and cannot work, what will happen to my job? For clear reasons, many people in this extremely stressful, uncertain situation ask this and related questions such as:
- Can I be fired just for reporting my work accident and filing a workers' comp claim?
- If I recover within a reasonable time, will my employer keep my job open for me?
- What if I have a permanent disability that will prevent me from ever returning to my previous occupation?
Get Clear Guidance From Attorneys Who Will Protect Your Rights
Our Denver, Colorado-based workers' compensation lawyers will carefully evaluate your unique situation and provide counsel based on our decades of experience. You can count on reliable, practical information about what your employer can and cannot legally do.
Generally speaking:
- You cannot be legally fired for filing a workers' compensation claim, but an employer who takes this step will almost certainly cite another reason for termination – making it essential to have experienced legal representation on your side. Learn more here if you have been fired from your job already.
- Your employer does not have an obligation under workers' compensation laws to keep your job open for you while you are on a medical leave and unable to work. However, you may have other options for protecting your job, such as taking a qualified leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If you are unable to return to work following your injury, you may be entitled to Temporary Total Disability (TTD) payments to compensate you while you recover from your injury.
You have many rights following a work injury, including many relating to your employment and what your employer can and cannot do. If you are concerned that you may be fired because of your work injury, you need to contact an attorney to discuss these concerns.
We are prepared to deal effectively with all aspects of your qualified workers' comp injury and claim, including conflicts that arise with the insurance company or your employer. If you have been terminated, believe you are at risk or simply want to know your rights as you seek the benefits you deserve, please call 303-993-8882 or email us now at Alverson + O'Brien. We will provide a free initial consultation focused squarely on your concerns.


text:
Games of skill
Thonon Ball'Trap Club
Sharpen your dexterity at the Thonon shooting range
Les Archers de Ripaille - Archery
The archery club organized activities from beginners to competition level. Young and old, come and sharpen your sense of precision by aiming at the bullseye.
Chemin de Perosay
74200 Thonon-les-Bains
06 70 02 57 03
Chemin de Perosay
74200 Thonon-les-Bains
06 70 02 57 03
Stesch & Co. Arc/Animation - Archery
Archery instructor registered with the National Education Board, listed in the Handiguide for people with disabilities and a recognised sports and physical activity provider. The activity is fully accessible and all equipment is provided for all disciplines.


text:
Erica had a day to get over the fiasco that should have been a happy party for her but no matter how bad she felt, she knew Bessie had to be heartbroken. Erica invited Bessie to have a picnic with her in the rose garden. Her mouth was watering as she smelled the fresh baked breads, pungent cheeses, game pies, figs and sweet pastries. She was hoping that she could help put a smile on Bessie's face. She wanted to do all she could to comfort her dear friend.
Elizabeth Blount Z
I walk with my face held high hoping to avoid all the stares and whispers. Since the party, it seems that no matter what, Henry and I are the topic of discussion at court. I could barely remember my outbreak at the party. But I knew it was unladylike like. Though for some reason or another, it did not bother me. I meant every word! Lady Norfolk was slowly ruining everything; I knew that if were not for my friendship with Queen Erica, Henry would have had his divorce by now. I smiled at the thought of my dear friend who I felt very bad fo; since her wonderful party had been ruined by my own husband's manners. I approach the garden and can see her waiting. "Your Majesty," I say with a curtsy "It was very gracious of you to invite me, a nice picnic away from court. I know it shall be a pleasant outing.
Queen Erica of England Z
I kiss Bessie's cheeks and take her hand as I smile at her. " I have everything set up for us in the rose gardens. I am famished. I am always hungry. Were you like that with your pregnancies?" I absently pat my stomach; it grows larger by the day. " Wait till you see this feast. I order us to eat our fill of everything. Especially the desserts, Arthur had my favorite Lingonberries shipped here.
We sit under the tent as the the servants fill our goblets with the rich, fruity wine and bring in platter after platter of delicacies on gold plates. " Bessie, I do not know how we are going to take care of the Duchess of Norfolk, but mark my words, she will be taken care of."
" I cannot help but notice how Gilbert Talboys looks as you. He looks like a love struck puppy. Tell me Bessie, could you ever lay with Henry again after all the pain he has caused? Do you want to stay married to such a man? "
I wove the dainty roses together in a crown as I waited for her answer, seeing the pain on her beautiful face.
Elizabeth Blount Z
I sigh and look around the garden filled with bright, blooming roses. The thought of my husband's actions still plague me and I wonder if Henry and I can truly move on. "To be honest, I am not sure. I love my husband and most likely always will. But I am not positive we will ever get passed what the Duchess has done to us. I will fight for my daughter's inheritance. She will get what she deserves before any of his bastard do." I try to think of sweet Gilbert. He had helped me back to my chambers after the horrid events. " Sir Talboys is a friend, a good friend who I trust. I am thankful for his kindness and help."
Anne of Buckingham Z
I had spied the queen and Henry's poor, suffering wife make their way to a pretty tent in the rose garden from the castle, and now found myself making my way to 'accidentally' happen across this little luncheon.
I breeze past loitering courtiers who narrow their eyes at my presumption. I am not intimidated by two women who do not have a drop of royal blood in their veins. Well English at least, The Swedish think they have royals… This will be a measure of whether the queen is beginning to trust me.
I have my lady-in-waiting Jane cut a posy. We make our way ywith my frequent exclamations of the beauty of the flowers, admiration of the delightful scent punctuating our journey. Another lady enjoying the summer day. As we round the last hedge, I turn from Jane, the posy in my hand and spy the tent and it's royal occupants.
"My Queen! Princess Elizabeth!" I sink into a deferential curtsy. "I apologise for my interruption. I have so missed the royal rose gardens. They are the finest in the land." I smile at the pair. Queen Erica has a brow risen at my arrival, and I can still see the sadness on the princess. Poor girl. "Please pardon my interruption."
Queen Erica of England Z
Looking at Lady Anne, the hair on my neck rises. Is she here to spy for her niece, the harpy concubine? Or is she here for her brother the Duke of Buckingham and Arthur's mother. I will happily play her deceitful game.
" What a pleasant interruption Lady Anne, are you hungry? Please join us; there is much too much food for her Grace Princess Elizabeth and myself to finish. " Giving Bessie a look so she knows what I am up to. I continue my conversation with Lady Anne. " Does not the pickled herring smell heavenly? I cannot stop craving it." I pat my protruding belly and flash her a charming smile ,while in my head, I see imagines of snakes devouring each other. I wonder if her skin feels reptilian?
" Come take a seat on the green, feather pillow. It is most comfortable. We were enjoying the warmth from the sun. It is such a beautiful day. Do you not agree?"
Anne of Buckingham Z
"Your Majesty is too kind, I would be honoured to join you." I thrust the bouquet at Jane who finds a vessel to arrange them in and adds it to the groaning table.
"The Lord blesses us with this paradise, 'tis truly perfect." I perch on the green cushion and take a dainty bite of the pickled herring. "What a treat for one's taste buds!" I swallow the delicacy and am surprised by the pleasant taste. "How delicious!" I look at at the royal ladies and smile cheerfully. The queen gives me a doubtful look like she does not know what to make of me. Which is exactly what I want at this court.
"I hope you have been pleased with my service your Majesty. I know it is.. difficult at present with everyone's loyalties up in the air. I would like to assure you of my never wavering loyalty." I pick up plum and take a delicate bite.
Queen Erica of England Z
Looking into the eyes of Anne of Buckingham, I see no trace of intensions yet. She is the ultimate courtier, full of smiles which may hold numerous deceptions.
" Lady Anne, please try the custard with lingonberries. I am pleased that you are enjoying food from my home land. You bring up a very important point. Where do your loyalties lay? They can support my brother-in- law and his concubine, your niece I believe. Or the Dowager Queen and your father. It would not be a stretch for me to believe you perhaps work with them."
Tracing the scar on my neck absentmindedly, I think about why bother taking a chance with a Buckingham in my service. I must protect my child, patting my stomach as I feel my child move.
" Why should I be assured of your never wavering loyalty?" I look at her sternly and watch how Bessie is processing her. I know that I can trust, Arthur, Clarisa, Gustav, Sven, Bessie and Wolsey, the new Pope. A powerful ally. " Your family is against me and wants me dead. Why should I believe that you are loyal to me and not spying on me? I asked strait forwardly.
Anne of Buckingham Z
I cannot help but smile at the queen. I was beginning to think she was quickly sinking amongst the wreckage that the Tudor house was bringing down upon itself.
" That is a fair question your Majesty, it must be a difficult time for you and the king with his brother and mother constantly looking to undermine Arthur's rule." It's not just my family who are running wild – and it doesn't hurt to remind the queen of that.
I lean forward. " Your Majesty, to be truthful, I am embarrassed by the behaviour of my family" I speak nothing but the truth here as the women before my exchange a glance at the judgement in my tone. "My father would be rolling in his grave! The Stafford's are of royal blood ourselves, and this is certainly not the way to uphold the family honour. Not to mention the petulant Prince Henry!" I wave my hand dismissively "Though I expect nothing of the Dowager Queen, the Woodville's knew not how to behave in their elevated situation."
I take a sip of wine and consider the queen before me. "Your Majesty, I simply want to see honour restored to the English throne – and I believe that is through you. We are becoming the laughing stock of Europe."
Queen Erica of England Z
" Do you honestly believe the Europe cares more about the tantrums of England's spoiled prince, or the strength that the Swedish alliance is bringing to both our Navies? Our king is strong and England's future now lays safely in my womb. No matter whose child your niece carries, it will be called a Howard. Norfolk is too proud to let Prince Henry have his bastard. "
Turning to Bessie, I take her hand." Prince Henry has a child, and she is Princess Mary. He also has a lawful wife who happens to be my closest friend, Princess Elizabeth." I smile at Bessie and feel bad that she must be part of this conversation. " Lady Anne, if you are ashamed of your niece's wanton behavior, then perhaps you could help us." I look boldly into her face.
Talk to the duchess, and let us know what her and the prince are planning. Give me something that I can use against the concubine, and I promise you will be well rewarded." I absently touch the scar on my neck as I wait for her reply. Has her face gone pale, or is it my imagination?
Anne of Buckingham Z
I lean forward slightly, intrigued. My eyes have a little sparkle as I contemplate this mission.
"Your Majesty, I shall do as you requested." I turn to the princess. "I apologise if my observations have made you uncomfortable Your Grace. It certainly was not my intention." The princess gave me a small nod, she looked a little pale. I wonder if she will survive this drama?
iI turn back to the queen. "Your Majesty, never underestimate the power of gossip, including those in foreign courts all looking for an advantage." I stand, curtsy and smile. "You shall not be disappointed."
Written by Queen Erica of England Z, Elizabeth Blount Z, and Anne of Buckingham Z


text:
Tell us about yourself. How old are your children? Where can we find you?
I am a painter. I primarily work in oils and encaustics, but recently spurred by time constraints I've begun to work in watercolors and acrylics too. I have my BFA in fine art from The Maryland Institute College of Art and have always been in love with creating. I would say that art is my profession even though I have always held a job outside of my studio practice. There have certainly been periods in my life when it's played a smaller role, but it's always been there.
I am the mother of a daughter that is 4 ½ and a son that is 2. I feel like I am just coming out of the fog that is the early years of parenting.
- Website: www.heatherkirtland.com
- Instagram: @heatherkirtland
- FaceBook: Heather Kirtland – Artist
How has your approach to painting, your processes, medium, or your inspiration changed since having children?
In so many ways, that I didn't even recognize at first. I was terrified after having my daughter that I wouldn't create again. I had a rough start to finding my way as a new mom. I think because I was an artist there was a level of selfishness and desire for alone time that I wasn't even aware of until it disappeared. I think there is this new phrase "psychic time" that explains it. I was so in love with my new baby that I just thought maybe for me, I can only focus on her right now. I actually Googled "mother artists" to see if I could find any insight or solutions, but all I got back were articles about famous male artists' moms. About the time my daughter was a year old, I came back to myself and decided I was the only thing standing in my way. I could ask for help. Once I made that conscious decision, the floodgates opened and I looked at creating in a new way. I am much better at time management and being kind to myself now. I have gained such confidence in my work, and I have no doubt that navigating motherhood gave me that.
Since my studio is not at our home, I keep a set of acrylics and watercolors in my home office. I've really been enjoying working with the new mediums, and I can come and go as I please. (Keeping them out of the reach of my very curious 2 year old? That I haven't mastered.)
Is it easy or difficult for you to find/make time to create? Did you have to give anything up? Do you have advice on what works for you?
I gave up housework, and on occasion there are sandwiches or scrambled eggs for dinner. In a nutshell; not putting too much pressure on myself.
I watch very little TV, and that was typically my decompression time. There is still "Scandal" though; I'm not ready to give that up!
I now have to schedule studio time, it is written in the Google calendar. I am so very fortunate to have my Mom and my Aunt, as well as my Mother-in-law, and they keep the kiddos happy on the days I am in the studio.
I am not the most organized person, but I've figured out that the more chores I deal with immediately around the house, like putting laundry away out of the dryer (most days), or picking up as I go, then I can focus on my creative side without the clutter, literally. (There is also a fair balance of coffee and wine.)
How does being an artist make you a better mother to your children? What do you hope they take away from seeing you as an artist doing something that fulfills you?
I'm going to steal someone else's words here. This past week in the studio I was listening to Elizabeth Gilbert's podcast "Magic Lessons". She mentioned the analogy of being on a plane and hitting turbulence. You look to the stewardess to see her reaction to get an idea of whether it's serious. As a mom I need to be fulfilled and happy so that I can maintain my sanity and the rest of the ship (or plane) can sail a little smoother. I've found that we set the tone for the household.
I hope my kids take away the importance of being creative in life. It can be a good soother and fulfills a need I think we all have to participate in life from a different angle. I also want them to know that they can do something they love and find a way to make it happen. I feel like an artistic practice teaches a type of ingenuity and problem solving that can serve them well. I also hope that the way I see things is advantageous to them, how I point out color or something that in nature is simply beautiful. It is a way to find joy all the time.
Where do you paint or create? What are your favorite things about your workspace and what would you improve? Do you ever create art with your kids?
Where do I create? Ha! I have a totally glamorous studio space…a garage….at my Moms. (Did I mention I was 40??)
There is a tool table, lawn mowers and the usual garage inhabitants. I work right in the middle of it all.
I didn't want not having a space to hinder me. (When I was single it was the other half of my bedroom). It can be hot, bitter cold and, a bit crowded. The perks of my current situation are when the temperature is right and the door is open it can be lovely. While I work my Mother watches my kids. The kids can come and go - which can go either way. I still get to eat lunch with them and receive painting advice from my daughter. She is all about the pink, and is such the art critic.
I do sometimes hesitate when applying to gallery shows. Eeek! What if they want to do a studio visit? But lately through other creative mamas I've been able to borrow space. I do hope to have the studio of my dreams someday and I'm working towards it.
I love to create with my kids. My daughter and I paint together when my son naps. We also spend a lot of time coloring. I tend to stay even after she's done. My son is just starting to get involved. I love how they just go for it. I look forward to having a small area for them to create inside my studio when I have a better space.
Do you have any tips to streamline / delegate / outsource household and childcare activities so that you can focus more time on your art? Has your lifestyle changed in any major ways?
Like I mentioned before, I am extremely lucky to have extended family, all retired and so graciously giving of their time in support of us. Not only do they spend time having fun with the kids they also help with some household chores too. I often wondered if I could pair down our "stuff" if it would make the daily ins and outs easier.
If I could outsource anything it would be meal planning/grocery shopping/cooking. When I'm in the thick of it I tend to go simple and easy, scrambled eggs or sandwiches for dinner.
The biggest lifestyle change unfortunately is fitness. I'm a runner and used to do triathlons. It's a part of my life I miss, but a huge time commitment. Currently I am trying to fit in a little healthy "me" time. But it's usually the first thing to go. I'm sure that isn't a good thing.
Do you have any big goals or dreams for your art that you'd like to share? What would be your dream project?
Wow. Yes! So many. The biggest goal at the moment is to be able to build a studio on our property. I've dreamed about every detail. I am hoping through sales of my work over the next year I can make it happen. I'm thinking of doing a painting challenge specific to raising money for this. I think it would be awesome to then throw a big open studio party to thank everyone that contributed by purchasing work.
I would love for my work to reach a larger audience and I certainly hope to continue to show in galleries, but the magic of reaching the globe online is amazing to me. I have so many talented Instagram friends from all corners. The opportunity to add to our family income through my art is important to me as well.
Then, I'm almost afraid to write this but I would love to put a book together about artist moms. I would like the book to show how ingenuitive we are and how that is evident in our unique workspaces. I would love it to include interviews and be a resource to new mom artists out there. Hmmm Marissa? Perhaps a collaboration?!


text: Interested in this Theme? As you can see I have all the buttons on this site funnel to this contact page because I want you to contact me about developing a site like this one for you. It's already pre-built and ready for your content. Leave a note and I will get back to you usually within 48 hours.