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I am a reluctant gadget lover. I enjoy technology that makes my life simpler and gadgets that look cool, are highly portable and deliver on the 'simplify my life' philosophy. And i am reasonably tech-savvy. I was quick to embrace digital cameras and digital photography. I take hundreds of pictures a month and catalog them carefully. However, i have never gotten into video – camcorders are too bulky and complicated for me. My husband has some cool sony camcorder that supposedly does great things but i have never been tempted to use it once. But i love the idea of video. So, after reading all of the reviews of the flip video ultra here and elsewhere, i decided that this company may have accomplished what i have been looking for in a video recorder. I just got my flip yesterday and it is everything i had hoped for and morei bought the orange flip – it's compact, light and pretty.
I had been debating buying the flip ultra for the past two months. I read so many of the reviews on amazon as well as other sites and kept going back and forth for two reasons: 1. My ibm laptop, running xp which is 1 and half years old has had massive problems from day one, it's extremely delicate and i've gotten the blue screen of (almost) death on many occassions. My hard drive has been wiped out more than one and the list goes on. 00+ i couldn't justify it given i had just bought a very expensive dslr and i already have a point and shoot that takes video. What changed my mind in almost an instant was the drop in price. As i mention, i do have video on my point and shoot but now that i have a digital slr camera i won't be carrying both camera's around so wanted something that would do just video on a day to day basis that i could just tuck in my pocket or my purse. I take a lot of video's of my 4 year when we are out and about and upload to dropshots and carrying the point and shoot is kind of pain sometimes so i thought the flip ultra would be a fantastic option for me. I received the flip ultra and was anxious to try it out but again was nervous that i would have problems with it as mentioned in so many reviews and was in fear of my laptop going nuts again but i finally took the plunge.The flip ultra is so incredibly easy to use i can't get over it, it's basically plug and play right out of the box. I put the batteries in which is clearly shown how to do on the instruction booklet, set the time and date, and started filming. The screen is beautiful and far surpases the screen on my point and shoot camera with video. Then i popped out the usb arm (which i will not use again for fear of it breaking off – i will just use a standard usb cable), plugged it into my usb port and my job was done. It automatically started downloading the software which could not be easier to use. You can't make changes to your video but i don't do that anyway, do most people?. No one i know of does that's using it for similar purposes. I've got a sony handcam so if i was looking to make some incredible video that i wanted to look a certain way i could use that with other software but trust me, i'm not ever going to do that. As i mentioned earlier i use dropshots dot com to share my video's with family and friends and have the dropshots dropbox on my desktop which you just drop a video into and it uploads, i was unsure how my flip ultra video's would work with dropshots but not only was it no problem at all the video and sound quality far surpasses my point and shoot digital camera video, it's just amazingso, i am not looking to discount anyone else's experience with the flip ultra but for me this works like a dream.
I was looking for a quick, small, light, easy-to-use video camera to take with me for samples of anything interesting i might find wherever i might go. I'm a former professional still photographer, and continue to carry around lots of still camera gear, so the ease, size and light weight of this camera is a big plus. It fits easily into a pocket, and you almost forget you've got it. The hour of video is a pretty good length, just about enough to let me record most of a traditional music performance on a recent trip to colombia. The image resolution is decent, being vga quality, sound pickup is reasonably good, at least for close subjects or those creating enough volume. I was able to record unamplified musicians at 15 feet with no problem, although sometimes i think the volume actually was too much. Speaking voices at 20 feet or so were about the maximum, though, and normal conversation would need to be much closer. It uses aa batteries, which means you can almost always find fresh batteries if your own supply is used up. However, i was able to record a non-continuous hour's worth of video during about an hour and a half period and the standard alkaline's were still pumping out the juice.
I purchased the flip video ultra mainly to take videos of our family gatherings both for keepsakes and to send them to our family members that live too far from us. The expectation was to be able to make videos that we could edit in os x 10. 5, upload to youtube, make dvds or add to our two appletvs. The goodthis is as simple as it gets. It is held more or less the same way that you hold a cell phone while taking pictures/videos, and it is very light. It only has the bare minimum controls to get the job done. Importing into os x is easier if you just plug the camera and drag the movies into wherever you want them stored at. Processing is simple: i just import the clips as imovie events, and in minutes i can edit the whole thing with transitions, titles and music. Export to youtube from imovie is painless, while sending to appletv is a bit more involved (this is an imovie concern, it has nothing to do with the flip video). As a rough estimate, i can take a five-minute clip, edit it and export it to youtube in less than half an hour, and most of that time is wasted in conversions and uploads.
I like it for close-ups and it's ease of use and price. I like the convenience factor. (it fits in the pocket and there's no cables to mess with and no settings to fiddle with. It's plastic, and the buttons feel a bit like a toy. It doesn't feel like it will fall apart and the quailty of the video up-close to 10-15′ feet is great. . But i have a problem using it for my mac. Imovie '08 doesn't support the video format. There goes much of the ease of use (and convenience) the camera gave you initially. (note: the included software is very very basic and has to load each time the flip is plugged in.
Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder, 60 Minutes (Pink) : After only having this camcorder for a week, i can honestly say i will never go back to a regular camcorder again. I bought the first issue of sony's dvd camcorder years ago and still don't fully understand it. It cost me $900 back then and i still have to buy 30-60min dvd's that are expensive. I did it because i didn't want to transfer video but it was still cumbersome. In the past year or so, it barely comes out at all and when i want to tape something, i never have it on me. Plus, you need to carry the bulky battery charger and hope things are recharges and ready. The flip however is the same size as my comcact canon camera and actually weighs less. When i opened the box, i was surprised to find 2 aa duracell batteries already in there as well as a velvet draw string pouch to put the camera in. It has a av cord to hook up to your tv to playback your videos and a very simple 6 page book for directions. No huge manual in 10 languages and more importantly, no software.
I bought this at a good price, and decided to get one due to my growing family. It was agood little gadget that i still use occasionally. Of course, it's not hd and not much storage space, butit did get the job done. As someone as noted, the software is no longer usable. Because of that,i did lose some videos which can't be replaced, but i blame that on myself since i didn'tproperly 'save' it. As today's smartphone are getting better, there's no reason to use a video camera unlessyou don't have a smartphone. All in all, i did get great usage out of this, and it still worksi have purchased this item, personally for me, at the full retail price. There'sno relationship with the seller or the company of this product. Absolutelythere's zero compensation involved for my review. I am solely reviewing myexperience for other potential customers.
I've owned this since january 2008, and have found it invaluable – it's so easy to use & so portable & cheap that i can take it anywhere and put it anyone's hands and they can use it. I have used it mostly for capturing dog-training classes — agility and herding. I can hand it off to a fellow class-member, give them 10 seconds of instructions ('turn it on there, and stop/start the video with the big red button') and i end up with hours of very useful videos of me & my dogs that i can watch later to review what we did right or wrong, and to listen again to my trainers' comments. If you don't use the zoom, the picture is fantastic. I can hook it up directly to a standard 37-inch tv and the video is terrific. Sound is amazing, considering the basic microphone. It's digital, not optical, so that means the picture gets fuzzy, like blowing up a lo-res. I just don't even use the zoom anymore.
It is compact, easy to operate, looks good, comes with everything you need to operate it, and takes very high quality videos relative to its price. I recently recorded a piano recital and both the sound and video were surprisingly good. Piano is not an easy instrument to record, but the flip did a great job. I did have a problem loading the software, in particular the 3ivx codec that it uses. When attempting to install the software i received an 'installation failed' message on windows xp. I tried installing the 3ivx codec separately but literally one second after agreeing to the terms and conditions and then pressing the 'install' button, i received an 'aborted' message. I subsequently learned the problem was i had k-lite codecs on my computer, of which one was 3ivx that was not an authorized version (i had no idea it wasn't legit) so once i uninstalled the k-lite package, the flip software installed without a hitch. In case any of you reading this have a problem installing the software and/or codec, it may be that you have a rogue version of 3ivx lurking on your computer already so try uninstalling it. Note that the creators of 3ivx charge you $14.


text: United Youth November 26, 2017 5:30 pm United Youth Building 210 N. Main St. Kittitas WA 98934 Get Directions Sundays @ 5:30 pm, United Youth Building: We worship God, have fun and get encouraged by His word. Please stop by and say hi! For more information contact United Youth leader Homero Tamez. 509-607-0876 Share this:FacebookTwitterPinterestEmailPrint

subset: commoncrawl


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Mold and Die Changing
Two-Position Quick Mold Changer
An Airfloat two-position mold-changing transporter with 16,000 lbs. capacity on each position. The changer travels on four air casters that glide up to a press. An onboard lift can adjust twelve inches vertically for various press heights. The changer has two side-by-side positions that allow removing the used mold and inserting a new one in less than 10 minutes.
Single-Position Quick Mold Changer
A single-position quick mold changer with 80,000 lb. capacity. The unit is equipped with roller deck top, powered push-pull device, integral mold handling control panel, two internal drives (one rotates 90º), and a pendant controller for drive functions. The top roller sections are set to a fixed height of 50″ above the floor. The mold push-pull travel speed is 6-10 feet/minute.
Steerable Single-Position Mold Changer
A single-position, steerable quick mold changer that can move, lift and push/push a 10,000 lb. mold. The unit includes a 24-inch hydraulic lift table, a top-mounted control panel, a docking rail, and an external steerable drive for moving the mold changer between presses and storage racks. The unit has variable transfer height between 20 and 44 inches.
Self-Contained Quick Mold Changer
A two-position mold changing transporter with 40,000 lbs. capacity on each side. The changer is self-contained, meaning it is powered by an LP gas-driven 195 SFM compressor centered on the top mid-section of the changer. The unit includes an after-cooler and a 60-gallon surge tank on the compressor output.
30,000 lb. Single-Position Mold Changer
A 30,000-lb. capacity, single position, air bearing-equipped, powered mold transporter / changer. The transporter is about 96″ x 80″ and has a no-load transport speed of 0-60 feet/minute. Required air flow is 180 SCFM @ 80 PSI. The unit changes molds in less than 10 minutes.
Reduce dangerous, time consuming mold and die changes to a 15-minute, hands-off operation
Mold Changes are a costly and timely procedure. Learn how Airfloat uses Air Caster technology to make them more efficient.
Danger lurks in modern machine handling. With heavier molds and dies being used, transporting, storing and changing them becomes costly and dangerous. To accommodate the needs of transporting and changing molds, Airfloat has introduced its new Quick Mold-Change System.
With Airfloat, the usual one- or two-hour change is quickly reduced to 15-20 minutes. With our ergonomic benefits applied to the equipment, the handling allows "hands-off" operation.
How Does It Work?
The Airfloat Quick Mold-Change System transmits the mold or die to the press, then inserts it automatically without the use of an overhead crane or forklift truck. A typical Airfloat changer has two side-by-side positions that can transport two molds or dies. Once the change is complete, the mold/die can be moved off the line and stored in a remote location or taken to the tool room for maintenance.
With an Airfloat Quick Mold Changer, the usual one- or two-hour change is quickly reduced to 15-20 minutes."
The Airfloat Quick Mold-Change System can be used with a multitude of press sizes, as the unit is supplied with variable transfer heights. In addition, Airfloat offers the options of manual or automated controls.
The Quick Mold-Change System is uniquely versatile in that it can be used with mold storage, pre-stage, preheat and racks. It can also be configured to change from operator or non-operator sides.
To learn more about this application and how an Airfloat customer used it to reduce their mold change time from 2 hours to 10 minutes, read our case study here.


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Hello sweet friends!! This is the story of how I met Jesus ….might not be what you're expecting to here but that's the great part- We each have our OWN unique story! Please feel free to tell your testimony in the comment section below. Let's give God the glory! ❤
Click on this link to see my video blog on how I met Jesus —-> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAF-fU-NdWk


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K-Girl Collection Vol. 1 iPhone app
K-Girl Collection Vol. 1 is a photo album app featuring Korean girls. There are 96 photos that come with the 5.1 MB app. Once launched the app claims to have over 400 photos of cute and sexy Korean girls that you can download and use as your iPhone/iPod touch wallpaper. Photos are grouped in categories: cute, stocking, lingerie, office lady. Currently priced at $0.99 on iTunes app store.


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August 20, 2013
Ronald Friedman, Co-Leader, Retail/Consumer Products Industry Group, Featured in BuzzFeed Business Article "a J.C. Penney Hits Reset to Before Former CEO's Arrival"
By Sapna Maheshwari
J.C. Penney reported its second-quarter results today, and the biggest takeaway was that it's essentially hitting the undo button on former CEO Ron Johnson's tenure.
J.C. Penney used Tuesday's earnings report to both wash its hands of former chief executive officer Ron Johnson and lay the blame for its disastrous performance over the last 18 months at his feet.
"There are no quick fixes to correct the errors of the past," said current CEO Mike Ullman, who was brought back to the company to replace Johnson in April. "That said, we have identified the challenges, put solid plans in place to address them, and have experienced and capable people in key roles to do so."
Included among the areas in need of "fixing" is the retailer's home departments, where Johnson's "lengthy renovation and disappointing re-merchandising" hurt the company's sales results during the second quarter. Ullman said J.C. Penney is planning to reverse the slide by restoring private-label brands such as St. John's Bay, bringing back more than 1,000 permanent cash registers and the J.C. Penney customer loyalty program, amping up coupons and sale events, and reinvesting in the company's workforce.
J.C. Penney also said today that it hosted summits for domestic and international suppliers during the quarter, citing their "strong support" for the retailer. Credit has become a major concern for J.C. Penney after a report in The New York Post this month said CIT Group temporarily stopped financing deliveries from smaller manufacturers to the company – a claim the retailer said was false.
Still, J.C. Penney has a long way to go toward restoring goodwill among its supplier network.
"If I'm a supplier to J.C. Penney, I'm basically giving them short-term credit, meaning I want to get paid every 30 days, I don't want to take an order six months out — maybe two or three months at the most," said Ron Friedman, head of retail and consumer products at Marcum, which works with a number of J.C. Penney vendors. Factors such as CIT, which guarantee the credit of manufacturers, are adding a surcharge of 1% to 2% to do business with J.C. Penney, making the entire process more expensive, he said.


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Replacing your billing company the right way
We've heard it before. A facility wants to replace their billing company, but they haven't figured out what to do next.
"They screwed up so badly, I want out. I just gave them my 30 day notice that I want to end our contract."
Problems with your billing company
Many of our customers have faced the scenario above. The billing company they used was never great, but recently it got much, much worse. Sometimes it started off rosy, only to hit snags early on. In other cases, it was always rocky.
One of the more common problems we hear is lack of communication. It takes many forms. For one customer, it was the constant emails back and forth asking the same question over and over. For another company, it was a blackhole of information. They asked a question and never got a response.
One particularly vivid example comes from a prospect of ours who desperately wants to switch billing companies once their contractual notice period ends. They lost thousands of dollars on one claim alone because their billing company didn't answer an insurer's question in a timely fashion. A claim that should have paid $3,000 paid $800 because their billing company didn't communicate with the facility. In fact, the billing company never told the customer they needed more information to get the claim paid. The customer only found out after the payment came back as a fraction of the amount they expected to collect.
Once a substance abuse treatment facility has a few of these sorts of incidents with their biller, the frustration builds. It only takes one small thing to go from frustrated customer to former customer.
The last (billing) straw
Once a treatment center hits that tipping point of anger, they often make a snap judgment to end their billing relationship. For the prospect that lost thousands due to their biller missing a deadline, it came when their biller told them they wouldn't bill for the month of December because other customers needed their benefits reverified. Telling a customer they are less important than another is never a good idea, but this just added insult to injury.
One of our larger customers told a similar tale when they hired us. Their billing company simply stopped billing for them. No notice, no explanation. Our customer only found out when their bank account started to run dry. A strained relationship became a non-functional relationship.
Replacing your billing company the right way
One of the easiest things we recommend a treatment facility do is to know your options for billing companies. There are few things more stressful for a facility owner than making a sudden switch in how they collect money. Once you give notice to your billing company, they often stop work immediately on new claims. After all, their incentive is to reduce costs, which means they tell their billers to quit working on any new claims for you.
Having your biller quit on the job puts an owner in a bind. You need a replacement quickly or you'll face a cash crunch. Where do you turn? If you have a few contacts before you need to make that decision will smooth the process considerably.
We also recommend you speak to other billing companies before that last straw gets added to your burden. You might not decide to take action, but at least you'll have narrowed your options in a less rushed frame of mind.
If Inspira can help you think through your situation, please let us know.


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Named for the founder of Detroit, Cadillac is one of the oldest car manufacturers in the world, and it pioneered many automotive innovations. In its heyday, Cadillac was truly the "standard of the world," with class-leading luxury cars. Now, after a long decline in quality and innovation, the company has bounced back with polarizing styling and high-performance engines and transmissions. The cars are again up to the world standard and seem to be poised for a renaissance, thanks in no small part to an enormous investment by the parent company, General Motors, in all of the product lineup.
11 Results


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This application helps in managing settings like wifi, bluetooth etc in one place. These settings can be enabled/ disabled for a specified amount of time. This application also provides the functionality of adding other applications as favorite. These favorite applications can be launched from with in the app.
This application helps in enabling and disabling settings at one place.
Enter number of seconds/ minutes for which you want to keep the setting enabled and then click Off. This will automatically disable the setting once the time has finished.
Long press the setting icon to see more advanced settings (if applicable).
Add favorite applications to access them easily from one place. Create groups to easily classify applications.


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Can I have the same result at two different centers if I have transplanted the same number of grafts?
You should not use aspirin, Ginkgo bıloba, ginseng, vitamin E or any other herbal products one week before the surgery that may increase bleeding.
Patients who have cardiac diseases, atherosclerosis, myocard infarctus, bypass surgery or stend operation history must give theır medıcal information to the doctor. For this reason if the patient uses any drugs that coencive to control bleeding, the drugs should not be used for a period under the doctor's consultation.
Diabetic patients can make hair transplant but blood glucose levels must be controlled. Thyroid disorders are common, especially low thyroid hormone levels affect the success of the transplantation. If you have thyroid disorders your hormone levels must be within normal limits. Three nights before surgery, you should not drınk alcohol. On the day of the surgery you should wash your hair in the morning, and you should go to the clinic with a good breakfast.
Can we fix hair not dense enough or thick and grow wrong side because of hair transplantation done before ?
Patients whose hair is not dense enough because of past hair transplant surgery can undergo a correction surgery if they have no diseases and the donor area is enough. We do correction operations at our clinic.
In this situation some hormone levels, vitamin and mineral levels will be checked. Eczema, skin reactions and secondary infection scars have to be checked and then we can make a decision.
We apply to methods on thick and wrong side growth hair transplant correction. Firstly if grafts are so big and wide we displant these grafts cut into single grafts then transplant again with natural phrase. On the second technique; we camouflage the bad view by transplanting dense and single grafts around and between to these thick grafts. In other words we hide these hair islet by dense transplantation and make vague.
Most of the time, patient feel pain only during the injection of local anesthesia. When the anesthesia injection finished pain does not occur. But if the surgery takes long the effect of anesthesia will be diminishable fort his reason another injection should be done again. If neccessary 8-12 hour anesthesia can be obtained by doing nerve block. With the help of giving strong analgesic by the end of the operation patient prevents from post-op pain.
In some cases, if patient has injection fear and agitation oral sedatives for sedation or intravenous sedation can be done. I want to notice that at our clinic intravenous sedation done by anesthesia doctor for hair transplant surgery is very low and we do not prefer. We do not accept the general anesthesia requests.
The complication and adverse effect of hair transplant surgery is very low and insignificant.
Some minor complications can be at hair transplant surgery like every surgery procedure.
Redness on the transplanted area will take up to 2-8 weeks.
After hair transplantation thinning of the existing hair can be seen for a couple of months.
Post-op pain and scar on the transplanted area will be desteroyed at 7-10 days.
Dull ache occurs after fue operations for one night, 2-3 nights after fut operation.
Topognosis and torpor passes after fue operations immediately, rarely torpor takes long time.
For itch precaution is taken by medication and washing. Ache can be on the donor area post-op 5 to 6 days, this ache can pass by anti imflammatory and analgesic.
Tubercle on the scalp can ocur on the 3rd day and can pass 3-5 days.
Cyst formation: in a couple of weeks spontaneous remission occurs and it seems like very small pustule on the transplantation area.
We have hardly ever seen infection but it can occur every surgery theoretically.
Post-op scar occurance take a long time, if scar is not cleared mycosis can ocur.
Yes. Your normal hair around the transplanted grafts can get thinner or temporal hair loss can ocur. This stiuation can be seen as existing hair loss on tranplantation area.
This situation finishes about two months and spontaneously get beter.
Temporal hair loss and getting thin of the existing hair is called 'Telogen Effluvia'. This situation should not discomfort patient until the new hair grows because it is temporal.


text: Black Violin recently met 19-year old phenom Alessia Cara in Los Angeles, and when she heard Kev and Wil performing she was blown away—so much so, that she invited them to back her up the next day at her Ellen DeGeneres show taping. In case you missed it, here's a link to the segment. (click Ellen photo) Enjoy!


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Never let your business trip or vacation getaway miss a beat at Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Vinings/Galleria. Our convenient location in the Vinings area allows you to seamlessly partake in some of the region's most renowned activities such as a baseball game at SunTrust Park, a day of learning at the Georgia Aquarium and world-class live performances at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Our cozy hotel rooms and suites offer a welcome reprieve from the rest of your day. Each boasts complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini-refrigerator, microwave and flat-panel TV so you'll feel right at home no matter how long your stay. Get each and every morning off to a great start with a visit to our free breakfast buffet, serving a wide selection of American morning classics including bacon, eggs and sausage. At Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Vinings/Galleria, you're our #1 priority. Ask us about The Fairfield 100% Guarantee™, where we promise you'll be satisfied or we'll make it right. That's our commitment to you.Show More
Inspire innovation and ingenuity in our intimate meeting space, outfitted with 21st-century designs, high-powered AV equipment and Wi-Fi access.Learn more
Whether you want to lift weights in our fitness center or take a lap in our seasonal outdoor pool, you'll never have to let your workout pass you by.Learn more
Our junior and executive suites offer larger spaces with separate living and sleeping areas to make your stay feel even more like home.Learn more


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Sue Schnitzer: Home
Sue Schnitzer
Interactive Music for Children
It's rockin' fun music for your youngsters! Loopy Moose Radio
You'll find your toes tapping to the eclectic sounds of Sue Schnitzer! Jeff Brown, Co-Program Director, KTOO-FM
SUMMER 2018 — Libraries Rock!
AWARD WINNING CDs available at CD Baby.
Dear Sue,
I just wanted to thank you for making a really, really awesome cd. My son Josh, his mother and I love it!
sincerely, Charles
If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music…I get most joy in life out of music. ---Albert Einstein


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When in doubt, stick to classics. Nothing like Levi's and a basic tee.
denim skirt
Happy first day of Fall! Even though it's still pretty warm in LA, at least I can wear my new favorite denim skirt. It's all about the 70s this season.
DETAILS: skirt – MiH Jeans, shirt – Forever 21, shoes – JCrew (old, try these), glasses – Cole Haan (similar here)


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About Traci & her Blog
What's your best advice for moms trying to get healthy?
What motivates you to stay active while raising a family?
Traci's Recipes
Chocolate Strawberry Crepes w/Greek Yogurt
This delicious meal will leave the kids stumped. It tastes so good they won't know it's good for them!
Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies with Salted Caramel Buttercream
A sweet sugar cookie filled with the warmth of salted caramel and a rich buttery frosting.
Traci's Answers
From Twister to "sardines in a can," we're always looking for indoor games that get our kids moving and burning off energy! Can you share a physical game your kids love that can be played inside?
TraciWe love playing balloon tennis or kickball. Amazing how one cheap balloon can entertain for hours! Until it pops. :)
What unhealthy eating habits or cravings have you developed since becoming a mom? Please include a picture if it's relevant.
TraciI went back to school after having kids, and I get intense sugar cravings while studying late at night. Sugar has to be my biggest nemesis and my number one reason for keeping extra pounds on post baby.
Traci's Blogger SoundOff Posts
Fall Family Fun
Fall Gameday Fun with Baked Macaroni and Cheese Balls
Game day always starts with a long morning run followed by food, fun and… More


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Bottom Line
Not yet reviewed by editors.
Editor's Note: Product not yet tested by editor. The following description is from the manufacturer.
Modeled after the acclaimed new Apple iPod Earphones, the iPhone stereo headset provide superior comfort, fit, and sound quality. The stereo headset also features a high performance microphone - fitted with a windscreen for added clarity - that is positioned inline on the cabling for the right earphone. The microphone capsule also serves as a send/end button, for answering and ending of iPhone calls, and it even controls basic music playback.
For additional information on Headphones and product reviews, please visit our Headphones product guide.


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When we heard of a skincare line called Celtic Complexion Beauty Society, we were intrigued. Like many women of Irish ancestry, Jennifer Devlin, founder of the skincare line struggled with rosacea and sensitive skin for many years.
Celtic Complexion Beauty Society
According to Devlin, her "diet" meant she had to forego all products that contained more than 10 ingredients and anything that had synthetic ingredients.
After two months, Devlin said her complexion improved and appeared less irritated. Devlin left her beauty director position to enroll in an aesthetician license program and soon commited herself to using all-natural products.
SFUnzipped chatted with Devlin yesterday about her line:
What is Celtic skin?
Celtic skin is anyone who has dry- to ultra-dry, sensitive and fragile skin.
When did you start making your own products and how long after did you start selling your products?
I started making my own products for myself 10 years ago, and five years ago, I gave friends and family samples to try. With their encouragement, I started selling my products a year ago.
Courtesy of Celtic Complexion Beauty Society
Devlin says after seeing few results from using high-end skin care from department stores, she met with a holistic aesthetician who urged her to go on a skincare and cosmetic "diet."
Where are your products made?
When I first started, I made them myself by hand, but now I use a FDA lab near my home in Florida, where I have other people produce the products all by hand.
What should people know about rosacea and how would you suggest treating it?
In my personal experience, I've learn that less is more with rosacea. But my huge advice is to get off the chemical products and use all-natural organic skincare instead.
Along with being a licensed aesthetician, you are also a commercial makeup artist. What dod you suggest for someone whose looking to tone down redness instantly?
My serum for ultra-sensitive skin is very soothing and it would instantly help calm the redness on contact. But in terms of color, mineral makeup would be the best thing to conceal the redness.
In sum, Devlin women urges to keep skincare routines simple.
"Just like processed foods, there's processed skincare products. It just makes sense that the chemicals in your food is not any better than the chemicals in your skincare."
Celtic Complexion Beauty Society is offering free samples through the end of the month of March; find out more about the line here.


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More News From Greenwire
- Coal-State Dems Unveil Bills Stalling EPA Emission Curbs
- DOE Disputes Senators' Claims of Stimulus Grants Flowing Overseas
- Coal-Plant Bill in Alignment With Other Air Pollution Regulations -- EPA Air Chief
- Lawmakers Want NOAA's Law Enforcement Chief to Quit in Wake of Scandal
- Graham's Cap-And-Trade Pronouncement Reframes Hill Debate
This story was updated at 2:54 p.m. EST.
U.S. scientists are planning to counter criticisms directed at them during the "Climategate" scandal and congressional debates, saying conservatives and industry groups have waged a "McCarthyite" campaign, according to e-mails exchanged by the researchers.
The e-mails obtained by E&E show the scientists are considering launching advertising campaigns, widening their public presence, pushing the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to take a more active role in explaining climate science and creating a nonprofit to serve as a voice for the scientific community.
"We need to develop a relentless rain of science and scientific dialog on the incredible, destructive demagoguery that has invaded the airwaves, the news media and the public forum and has prevented a rational discussion about political solutions to human perturbations on the environment," wrote Paul Falkowski, a professor at Rutgers University's Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences.
Stephen Schneider, a climatologist at Stanford University, wrote that the scientific community has been subjected to "neo-McCarthyism" fueled by Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and his staff. "I am hopeful that all the forces working for honest debate and quality assessments will decry this McCarthyite regression, and by name point out what this Senator is doing by a continuing smear campaign," Schneider wrote.
Schneider was among 17 scientists whom Inhofe said may have violated federal law in connection to last year's hacked e-mail controversy, which has been called "Climategate."
Though the scientists' strategy e-mails show a desire by the scientific community to push back against attacks from climate change critics, it is not clear that they have produced a consensus on what steps to take.
The messages, which were distributed mostly in late February through a listserv maintained by the National Academy of Sciences for members in its environmental sciences and ecology division, involved a dozen or so scientists who are academy members. Their e-mails to the list appear to have been forwarded outside the group by an unknown person.
An NAS spokesman said that the discussion was a private conversation between individuals and does not represent the views of the organization as a whole.
"The discussion was among scientists who are elected members of the NAS, but they were speaking on their own behalf and realized the NAS had never considered placing an ad," said spokesman William Kearney, in reference to a call by one of the scientists for an NAS-backed newspaper ad. "The NAS addresses issues such as climate change through the reports of its operating arm, the National Research Council."
The exchange took place among members of "Section 63," which is one of many organizational divisions in NAS and has 61 members, according to a NAS directory.
The exchange was seemingly sparked by an e-mail from Falkowski that urges members of NAS to back an effort to refute the notion that the scientific basis for climate change has been undermined by the Climategate controversy and various efforts from opponents.
Specifically, Falkowski calls on NAS members to sign a declaration saying "there is clear scientific evidence that burning of fossil fuels by humans will alter the climate" and says that it should be placed as an advertisement in The New York Times and other major newspapers. Falkowski says he is willing to spend $1,000 of his own to make that happen and calls for at least 50 other NAS members to do likewise.
Later in the exchange, he reveals that about 15 scientists have already pledged to contribute to the effort.
Falkowski then goes on to say that he wants to initiate a conversation with the Public Broadcasting Service to develop a prime-time science program, saying there must be a "face on TV and Radio that is real science."
Other scientists, however, questioned the benefit of spending money on a newspaper ad, arguing that their message would be lost among numerous public relations efforts by the better-funded industry groups and their allies. They maintained that the community should encourage greater direct connection between scientists and the public.
"I think our efforts as NAS members are better spent supporting the speech of such scientists vs. using our trivial personal funds for ephemera such as newspaper ads," wrote Steve Carpenter, an ecosystem ecologist at the University of Wisconsin.
Carpenter goes on to say that scientists should work on producing a report with "the authority of NAS" that summarizes the status and trends of the global climate in a manner that can be understood by a broad audience.
Falkowski acknowledges that he views the advertising as part of broader effort to "develop a collective, independent voice as NAS members -- outside of the NAS boundaries -- on the critical issue of climate change and the urgency of developing a national energy strategy."
He adds that his effort may not go over well with some scientists but said he believes it is needed to push back against "the wall of disinformation." "I realize that my initiative is probably unsettling for some, and probably downright unseemly," Falkowski writes.
Rick Piltz, director of the watchdog organization Climate Science Watch, expressed concern over the continued public exposure of private discussions among scientists but also said he was proud of the effort the scientists were looking to undertake.
"I think they're doing exactly what needs to be done; the communications exude intellectual integrity and public concern," Piltz said. "Clearly, nobody in the political and corporate elites of this country believe that the global warming denial machine is right and the National Academy of Sciences are wrong about climate change."
Consequences beyond climate debate
The e-mail discussions appear to be fueled by concerns over the fallout from the Climategate investigation, but several individuals also point out that the broader well-being of the scientific community is at stake.
Indeed, some argue, public discourse over any number of health issues may take a hit because of increased skepticism toward the scientific community.
"If the public looses faith in scientists, we can see the inevitable consequences. H1N1 vaccines were taken a plot to kill our children. Regardless of the evidence, cell phones cause brain cancer," Falkowski wrote. "The political dialogue is course -- but scientists are being treated like political pawns -- and it is not acceptable."
It is not uncommon for members of the scientific community to complain about the distortion -- or at least a lack of understanding -- of their work by politicians and the press. Such complaints were common during the George W. Bush administration, when many scientists publicly claimed that their profession had been "politicized" and that sound science had been ignored or manipulated in the crafting of public policy.
Some have suggested that scientists need to become more active in politics by running for office or engaging more directly with politicians and voters.
It remains to be seen whether any such prolonged efforts will occur in the wake of Climategate, but the e-mail exchange at NAS and recent comments from a number of scientists do indicate that the community is increasingly starting to believe that its scientific goals are irrevocably linked to the political debate.
"Most of our colleagues don't seem to grasp that we're not in a gentlepersons' debate, we're in a street fight against well-funded, merciless enemies who play by entirely different rules," wrote Paul Ehrlich, a biologist at Stanford University.
"Science is getting creamed with no effective response, and our colleagues involved with the IPCC [Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change] are getting threatened with prosecution by the likes of Inhofe. It is not clear whether the NAS can ever be an effective voice, but if we don't start some action it surely never will be."
Reporter Lauren Morello contributed.
Copyright 2010 E&E Publishing. All Rights Reserved.


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E46 Tie Rod Replacement DIY
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Registered User
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Snohomish
Posts: 312
My Ride: 2001 325i
View My Garage
E46 Tie Rod Replacement DIY
This weekend I installed a complete
front suspension overhaul kit
from bimmerworld. Except for getting the ball joints apart with the pickle fork
it was pretty straightforward thanks to the various DIYs I found on this forum. One DIY that seemed to be missing, however, was how to replace the tie rods. It isnt a terribly difficult procedure and the Bentley manual has reasonably good steps but I figured while I was doing it why not whip up a DIY with photos. All the photos shown here are for the drivers side, but its the exact same process for the passenger side. Thanks to my wife for taking the photos!
For those that enjoy seeing a diagram of parts
RealOEM is your friend
Tools required
Flat head screwdriver
Pipe wrench
19mm socket wrench
13mm wrench
19mm wrench
22mm wrench
Allen key
Liquid Wrench
Normal zip tie
Long (14) zip tie
Step 1:
Loosen the wheel bolts on your front wheels prior to going up on jack stands. Youll need to get the wheels off shortly.
Step 2:
Get your car up on jack stands
Step 3:
Take your front wheels off (if you cant figure out how to do this I suggest giving up on this DIY at this point )
Step 4:
Turn your steering wheel all the way in the direction of the side you are working on. This makes it easier to get at the outer tie rod nut.
Step 5:
Spray the nut holding the outer tie rod onto the wheel with Liquid Wrench. I found it made things easier when the tie rod hadnt been touched in 9 years and 150,000 miles.
Step 6:
Pop apart the bands holding the protective boot onto the inner tie rod. I used a flat head screwdriver, wormed it in there, and pried it off. Theres a small one near the outer tie rod (as seen in the photo) and a larger one attached to the steering rack. Be careful when using the screwdriver if you are planning on reusing the boots. You dont want to accidentally tear them, especially when the suckers are $52 each!
Step 7:
Using the 19mm socket wrench remove the nut attaching the outer tie rod to the wheel.
Step 8:
Using a pickle fork and a BFH (I used a 6lb sledge) bash away until the damn thing pops apart. Or, if youre fancy, use a ball joint separator. If you are using a pickle fork take care not to hit any of the ABS sensors or brake lines.
Step 9:
Turn the steering wheel until both wheels are roughly facing forward. This makes it easier to push the boot out of the way to get at the inner tie rod end.
Step 10:
Using a pipe wrench unscrew the inner tie rod from the steering rack. Youll likely need to push the protective boot out of the way a bit. There are lots of threads on the forum that talk about using a 1 5/16 crowfoot wrench to do this, but my local Sears didnt have one and claimed that they could barely special order one. I have a perfectly good plumbers pipe wrench and it unscrewed that sucker with ease.
Step 11:
Measure the length of your old tie rod. This will help you get your new one to roughly the same length so your trip to the alignment shop after youre done isnt completely terrifying. You definitely want to do this before step 12
Step 12:
If you are planning on re-using your old boot save yourself a ton of grief and just hacksaw it apart so you can get the boot off. I tried using Liquid Wrench and a couple of plumbers wrenches to get my old one apart without sawing and it was impossible.
Step 13:
There is no step 13. That would be unlucky.
Step 14:
Unscrew the new tie rod assembly and slip boot and nut onto the inner tie rod.
Step 15:
Take the inner tie rod and screw it in where the old one was. I used the pipe wrench to tighten it down as hard as I could since I had no crowsfoot to put on my torque wrench. If you do have one torque spec is 100 + 10 Nm (74 + 7 ft-lb). (In theory you can do this with the outer tie rod attached but I found it was a pain as it kept whacking things as I screwed the inner tie rod on.)
Step 16:
Screw the outer tie rod onto the inner tie rod until the total length is around what you measured on your old tie rod combo. In my case it was about 17 ¼.
Don't forget to put the locking ring on the inner tie rod first!
Tighten the locking nut down using your 22mm wrench. I didnt try and get mine torqued to spec as its just going to get adjusted by the alignment shop anyway. Torque spec for the tie rod end lock nut is 45 Nm (33 ft-lb).
Step 17:
Attach the outer tie rod end to the wheel. Youll need an allen key to insert into the top of the bolt to keep it from spinning as you tighten the nut down with a 19mm wrench. Torque spec is 65 Nm (45 ft-lb), but as with most nuts on the car I couldnt fit my torque wrench in there.
Step 18:
Zip tie the boot back in place. Use the 14 zip tie where it attaches to the steering rack. The smaller one is used to attach the boot just before where you use the 13mm wrench to adjust the toe. You can use hose clamps here too, but there are plenty of threads here that say just use zip ties. I used black, but if you want to get creative you could use a
different colour
Step 19:
Put your wheel back on and see how dumb it looks. In my case I accidentally had the length of my tie rod on the passenger side at 18 1/4"
It looked obviously bad. If this happens to you get under the car and loosen the lock nut with the 22mm wrench. Then use the 13mm wrench to adjust how far the outer tie rod is screwed in/out. Then tighten the lock nut again with the 22m wrench.
Step 20:
Take your car off the jack stands and go get an alignment!
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When I use my cPanel (www.sameeravasarala.co.in:2082) on my mobile, it opens and i can run it. But when I try to use it on my computer, I am unable to access it! Please tell me what I am supposed to do!
Maybe not compatible with Windows XP, or you need to install SP3 from Microsoft.


text:
Bloom online & interactive workshops
OUR dynamic, INSTRUCTOR-LEAD INTERACTIVE ONLINE COURSES are held OVER A 2 to 4 WEEK PERIOD and are held in a private room within our forum. our workshop STUDENTS HAVE DAILY INTERACTION WITH THEir INSTRUCTORs AND our ACTIVE/ASSIGNMENT STUDENTS RECEIVE FEEDBACK and coaching ON multiple course ASSIGNMENTS AND in addition, HAVE THE ABILITY TO ASK THE INSTRUCTOR one-on-one QUESTIONS throughout the comprehensive course.
The Flourish Fellowship
The ease of IMMEDIATEly DOWNLOADABLE LEARNING MATERIALS along with a peer study group makes flourish perfect for those that thrive in a self-guided environment. FLOURISH COURSE participants HAVE A PRIVATE SECTION WITHIN our FORUM TO CONNECT AND INTERACT WITH OTHER fellow PARTICIPANTS, maximizing benefits through group study. to complete the course, individual flourish hosts will answer questions from a q&a pool at the course conclusion.


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Tension intensified in Srinagar on Friday after another schoolboy was killed near the famous Nishat Mughal garden on the outskirts of the city.
Earlier, 13-year-old Wamik Farooq was killed in Srinagar on Sunday after he was hit by a teargas shell on his head at Rajouri Kadal in Srinagar, during a clash between a mob and the police.
The school boy, Zahid Farooq Sheikh, 17, was shot in the chest. He was taken to the local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries today evening.
The boy's family alleged that Zahid had been shot by the security forces near Brein Nishat when a vehicle carrying soldiers opened fire at a group of youths.
A senior police officer said, "We have begun an investigation into the mysterious death of Zahid Farooq at Nishat. The allegation that some passing vehicle opened fire is also being looked into."
As the news about Zahid's death spread, fresh tension gripped Srinagar, and Nishat area was rocked by protests.
Carrying the body on a cot, hundreds of people shouted pro-freedom slogans and tried to march to the chief minister's residence today evening.
However, the police intervened and used tear smoke and baton charges to block the protestors and thwart their march.
The protestors then blocked the road at Nishat and started shouting slogans. Authorities were trying to persuade the agitated locals to bury the body.


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A couple of days ago I intended to post a happy Facebook status – a rare jewel of optimism in a pile of seething malcontent.
Two joyous things had occurred: not only had I managed to get back into my size 12 jeans (from having been to a size 16 back in the summer), but I successfully travelled on the top deck of the bus, which I haven't done for almost a year due to crap mobility. With two herniated discs, trying to climb stairs on a moving vehicle is about as much fun as having your eyeballs grated, but it was a good day, and I tripped up and down with little problem.
I should take a moment to mention that herniated discs (and back pain in general) are a misunderstood condition. When people say they've 'slipped a disc' what they usually mean is that the disc is bulging and has momentarily prodded a nerve – its the pain equivalent of the dentist sticking that metal prong down your bad tooth so you leap out of the chair in pain. It's fucking agony, and feels like the world is ending, but thankfully most bulging discs correct themselves in a couple of months, with physio and gentle movement. However, if you're unlucky or just a physical wreck like me, the tough outer layer of the disc can split, letting the jelly-like centre poke through (think of discs as squished jelly babies) poking the nerve for ever and ever, giving you an incontinence-inducing shrieking agony at most inopportune moments. Although certain activities are bad for discs, usually the pain is brought on by something quite trivial, like turning round or picking up a penny. Lately the trigger for my evil jelly baby has been that most vigorous of movements – being asleep. I've gone to bed mobile and woken at 3am screaming like something from the Exorcist, my back in spasm and completely paralysed.
I didn't go ahead and post the status. The reason is a shitty one – if you've known me for a few years you may remember that an anonymous so-called friend tipped off the DWP that in their esteemed opinion, there was nothing wrong with me and I didn't deserve a penny of their hard-earned taxes, despite the fact that I'd spent my life BD (Before Disability) paying my bloody taxes too and aren't they supposed to be an insurance policy for when you need them and hey isn't that why its CALLED NATIONAL INSURANCE THE CLUE IS IN THE NAME you utter fuckbucket. But because they'd seen me commit the unforgivable crime of smiling in a photo on Facebook, or perhaps leaving the house wearing makeup (because no one sees the months on end that I don't wear makeup, dress, shower or brush my hair, let alone leave the house (actually that's a lie, my live-in carer sees it but he tries to shield his eyes from the horror), this genius phoned the
Grasser's Benefits Hotline and claimed "There's nothing wrong with her and she leads a full life". I mean god forbid someone on benefits should lead a full life, in fact the less fulfilled and happy you are, the more deserving you are, and ideally you'd have £1 deducted from your benefit every time you laugh.
So fast forward to my interview with DWP and bye bye benefits.
So although all that happened three years ago, I didn't post my happy status, because it only takes one person (did I say person? I actually mean "cunt") to see a nice happy status like this and think I'm an evil bus-stair-climbing money-grabbing benefits cheat.
Well, my anonymous grass can rest easy, because my bus-stair-climbing turned out to be a mere freakish twinkle of sunshine in a shitswamp of spinal disintegration, and by the end of yesterday I was in agony.
I was having a long-anticipated night out: firstly to the theatre to see a dramatisation of my favourite book, Oscar Wilde's Picture of Dorian Gray, then on to a club to see some friends for an annual get together. I'd been quite anxious about the whole endeavour; since I stopped drinking my overall anxiety has reduced loads, but the thought of going out on the piss, without the element of 'piss' is pretty scary. I reckoned by going to the theatre beforehand, I wouldn't be sitting around in a pub getting bloated on my fifth pint of soda water, and by the end of the play we could turn up to the club with it in full swing.
Things did not go to plan.
The play, the performers of which I'm not naming for reasons that will become obvious, was bloody awful. Hard to see how you could take a universally acknowledged work of utter genius and balls it up so spectacularly, but maybe it wasn't entirely the performer's fault. There was a mix-up with the start time, so we ended up getting there 45 minutes early, with nowhere to get a drink or even sit. The entire crew and front of house appeared to be the poshest people ever to have lived, which I KNOW is an unfair reason to hate people, but when you're cold and in pain and Tabitha and Johann are shouting at you loudly and bossily it's not the best start to the evening.
Things only worsened when we entered the theatre, only to find it wasn't a theatre, it was a room, and the room was not even a room, it was (or appeared to be modelling itself upon) the interior of a fridge, complete with migraine inducing lights and sub zero air circulation, and the stage was not a stage but an area at the front of the fridge/room. By this point the quality of the performances were largely academic as the whole setup was so bloody uncomfortable that from curtain up (did I say curtain? How silly of me, of course this production had no need for such old fashioned fripperies, someone turned the big lights off) I was counting down the minutes until the interval.
Now, this blog isn't really supposed to be able me moaning about going to see a shit play, which is a shame as I do love a diversion, but I actually wanted to write about learning to be disabled, as illustrated by the events of these few days. So, I'd started this tale happily tripping up and down stairs, and headed out for a long awaited night of fun. But here comes the stick in the (mobility scooter) spokes.
As mentioned, the room was cold. Now this shouldn't be a big deal – myself and the other audience members kept our coats on, which made it tolerable. As I also mentioned, there was no stage, meaning the whole room was on the flat. Shouldn't be too much of a problem. Unless you have a squished jelly baby disc in your neck, which means that holding your head in that position is akin to having your face and neck trapped in a vice of pain.
By the time Flora announced the interval, not only had I given up on the second half of the play, but also on going to the club to see my mates. Still these two concerns were but nought because my main worry was how on earth to get home. Because my mobility had been generally good in the last week or so, I'd left my crutches at home. But the combination of frozen neck and sitting in crappy chairs for 90 mins meant I could hardly stand. Holding on to my devoted carer, I limped for an Uber but physically getting into the car and getting out at the other end were not fun, never mind wincing at every bump in the road. My much-anticipated first night out in six months ended in bed at 9pm with two tramadol and a Sherlock.
You might be wondering, how is disability learned? Surely it's just a matter of adapting, and rolling with the (crap) punches? Well, yes and no. When the pain signals switch on their blue lights and do ninety along the highway of hell, you sure as fuck won't be running any marathons. But disability isn't as simple as always being one way or always being another. When you have good days, you make plans – it would be a grim old life if you simply took your worst base line of mental or physical anguish and planned the rest of your life accordingly (albeit that seems to be what the DWP would like you to do).But equally, it's not really feasible if you plan your life as if you'll always be your best. Especially when you have bipolar disorder – it's a recipe for burning oneself out. So learning to be disabled is a delicate tightrope of navigating how to 'live' without compromising your physical health through exhaustion, or your mental health through isolation/lack of activity.
As it happened, there was an especially unpleasant sting in the tail to my disastrous night out. I went to sleep in pretty severe neck pain, but said pain was manageable with lovely lovely narcotics. However, around 4am, my lower back decided to come out in sympathy, and for the next four hours I woke myself screaming in pain every ten minutes on the dot, because each time I fell asleep my back relaxed and the disc touched the nerve. (Last time this happened, my housemate insisted we call 111 and they sent us to the hospital, but I learned enough from that experience to know that they can't do much beyond give you the drugs you're already on).
So not a good night, all told.
The fallout from this particular episode is that only a month after I was last in hospital with my back pain, I was back again in the same situation – couldn't move, couldn't wash myself,couldn't do much really. Upstairs on the bus fades into a distant memory.
I'd originally felt a fraud when I'd bought a pair of crutches off Amazon. I wondered if I was falsely claiming the badge of disability, when there must be so many others out there who had it so much worse than me. Now, however, I was blessing good old tax evading Amazon Prime and their one day delivery. If it hadn't been for the crutches, I wouldn't have been able to go to the toilet, which is pretty much the last bastion of self-reliance.
Things got worse. I was addicted to the tramadol I needed for the pain, and when I tried to kick them I had a week of Renton-style withdrawals. I could now get to the loo, but showering was quite literally a hurdle I couldn't overcome. The pain had lessened, but any activity triggered it, so I was stuck between a rock and a hard place, knowing that the inactivity was causing my muscles to atrophy and result in more pain.
Plus, for my mental health, I needed to get out. I'm recovering from the worst bout of mental illness I've ever had the horror to experience (six days trapped trembling in a flat in Edinburgh too terrified to leave the house spring to mind, not to mention the suicide attempts). My carer has been tirelessly working to help me overcome my agoraphobia, but there's still a large voice residing within me which, when faced with the option of going out, will forcibly say "NAH". If I'm trapped in bed due to pain, I'm afraid the outside world will once more recede, and I'll be left with nothing, except Words With Friends.
I asked my GP about mobility aids, but his view was that wheelchairs are for the lazy! Stiff upper lip! Once you start using a wheelchair your muscles will waste away and you'll be left in a puddle like a gelatinous blob! (I paraphrase). The logic that my muscles were also wasting away while I was stuck in bed escaped him. I took an executive decision, and purchased what shall hereon in be named The Chariot.
So began my latest lesson in disability. Things I Have Learned so far include:
- Men will still ogle you with crutches, but a wheelchair is a bridge too far.
- People on buses will bestow you with patronising yet well-meaning regretful half-smiles. I don't judge them, I've done it myself. Their face says: It's a shame, and it IS a damn shame. I don't mind or feel embarrassed about the chariot, any more than I feel embarrassed about my bipolar, they are part of me and I am largely great. But yes kind stranger, life would be easier with improved mobility.
- At a time when one most needs taxis, they become scarce and valuable mythological beings which one must hunt for using a combination of apps and perching perilously close to the path of an oncoming vehicle. Accessible Ubers are few and far between and the ones in existence lie to you that they are seventeen minutes away then after seventeen minutes they are still sixteen minutes away. Only one in four black cabs stop. I try and meet the driver's eye, willing him to read my mind which is screaming "You can start the meter before you put the ramp down mate, I'm happy to pay, I'm just cold and want to get home!"
- Cold. Cold, cold cold. I'd always wondered why wheelchair users sported tartan blankets on their laps – it seemed strange to me. I don't generally whip out a blanket when I take a trip to the theatre – so why did wheelchair users need one? Was it to disguise their slothful and likely stained jogging bottoms, the uniform of the undeserving and muscle wasting feckless poor, the latent Iain Duncan Smith that lurks within me wondered? No. Amazingly enough, I have discovered like the world's most ignorant cunt, when one does not use one's legs THEY GET COLD. I just spent two hours outside at a protest and yearned for a tartan blanket.
So here endeth my first lesson in disability. I expect there'll be a lot more to come and I hope you will join me for this wild and crazy ride.


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20 November - Something to smile about
council doesn't have any certification for its mobile CCTV vehicles. Actually
that is wrong, the cars are certified, it's the cameras and recording gear that
isn't. They don't even deny it but claim another document is just as good.
"PATAS adjudicators are wrong and need to be educated" says Bexley council's
Traffic and Parking Manager Tina Brooks. In due course we will find out if that
is true. Meanwhile, over in Richmond where PATAS ruled against their uncertificated
cameras, their Council Leader, Lord True, has announced the intention to permanently
withdraw their CCTV cars and relaxation of parking restrictions across the board
recognising that a rigid regime of persecuting the motorist is wrecking the local economy.
"Councils should not be in the business of trap now, talk later" he said and we need a "fair parking agenda to bring life back to our high streets." Councillor Peter Craske please note.
Maybe the names of the council leaders are apposite? True to his electorate on the one hand and a dismissive "Oh, kneel" from the other. Can you imagine the scene when Boris Johnson's special advisor to the Outer London Boroughs attempts to lecture an intelligent democrat on how to run a dictatorship council?
Read a report in the Richmond and Twickenham Times.


text: I swear I'm still alive, but you wouldn't know it from my online presence as the end of the semester rolls down over me. Please bear with me, gentle reader, and for that matter savage readers should bear with me as well. Classes are over in a week and I should be on to doing something more interesting than writing papers, taking tests, and tearing my hair out.


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All Waitrose speciality sugars are now 100% Fairtrade, supporting a sweeter future for Mauritian farmers.
Offering 7 own label speciality sugars ranging from golden caster sugars through to dark brown muscavado sugar, we are the only retailer to offer 100% of our speciality sugars as Fairtrade.
For every tonne of Fairtrade sugar sold by Waitrose 60 USD is returned to our producers in Mauritius to invest in their business and the local community. In the first year of the sugar switch it is predicted that 115,000 USD of Fairtrade premium will be generated.
We firmly believe in the value of building long-lasting relationships that benefit our suppliers and our customers and we're proud supporters of Fairtrade. Our producers in the Mauritius do an incredible job and their Fairtrade certification means they receive structured support to invest in their businesses, communities and workers.
'Sugar is an essential ingredient for everyday food preparations. Likewise, income that we receive from planting sugarcane is essential for the livelihoods of our family. It greatly helps for my children's education and medication.
I would like to tell Waitrose customers to encourage us by keeping buying sugar from Mauritius so that we can continue planting sugarcane and earn our living,' Mrs Soorinah Jagen, member of Camp Diable CCS
Shop Waitrose Fairtrade sugar


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Family photos can be done as a lifestyle shoot at a location we decide together based on your family's style.
We can do a little picnic setup with a blanket and some cushions at kirstenbosch gardens, Babylonstoren, a walk in the park with your family dogs or even a gorgeous wine farm at the back of durbanville hills....what about a beach session, with sand between your toes and the mountain behind you – whatever works for you.
Discuss your needs with me and we can find the perfect spot for you.
The other option for family photographs is to go with a studio lifestyle shoot – my studio is a natural light boutique setup so the normal studio look, very elegant and unique for the perfect family portraits. It's located 2 mins walk from the beach...so we could do a combination of studio vs beach...completely up to you.
whatever your family style is, we can build a lifestyle shoot around you. Whatever you decide to do, you will have some great pictures of you at this amazing stage of your lives.
A love shoot, engagement shoot, call it what you want, they are relaxed, natural and most of all, loads of fun.A lifestyle portrait shoot is ideally done at a location we decide on together that will best describe your style and personality – urban, graffiti or an open field with a river and a forest.
There are a lot of fantastic options available. We can even do a styled shoot where we play with multiple locations, style your wardrobe to match the feel of the shoot, do your hair and make-up, everything to make you feel like a rock star or a princess.
The engagement shoot, or e-session, has come a long way with some couples going to great lengths to style the shoot at a specific location with matching wardrobe and details.
Fortunately a beautiful location like an open field can have just as much impact. I love a location or venue that has options – a field, a forest, some architecture, some old sheds, a river. If I had my way I would build a farm like that :-)
Whatever you decide to do, you will have some great pictures of the two of you at this amazing stage of your lives


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LEMARS - Estherville Lincoln Central finished sixth at the Lakes Conference Wrestling Tournament on Friday with 122 points.
The Midgets were without the services of top wrestler Lincoln Coakley (170) who was out sick.
ELC settled for four third-place finishes, three placing fourth and two getting fifth.
Article Photos
"Overall we had an up and down night," said ELC coach Gable Bonner. "We had our moments where we looked really good and moments were we looked pretty bad. Little disappointed we didn't get a finalist but we had a bunch of placers."
Placing third for ELC were Michael Houge (106), Jason Peta (113), Jalen Tripp (132) and Nick Egeland (220).
Houge lost his quarterfinal match, but came back with a pin in the consolation semifinal in 5:30 over Storm Lake's Carter Shima and then pinned LeMars' Blake Dirksen in 1:48 in the third-place match.
Peta lost his semifinal match, 6-2 to Milton Duarte of Storm Lake, but came back with a pin over Spencer's Bryson Blair in 22 seconds and won the third-place match in 30 seconds against LeMars' Jason Hand.
Tripp won his quarterfinal match in 2:27 against LeMars' Jacob singer, but lost in the semifinal to Storm Lake's Christopher Shima. He came back with a pin over Spencer's Abe Ortiz in 52 seconds and pinned Singer again in the third-place match in 3:27.
Egeland started the day by earning a pin in the quarterfinal, defeating Western Christian's Bryce Van Dyken in 3:19, but lost his semifinal by fall. He came back with a pin against Storm Lake's Gabe Barnett in the consolation final and then edged Spencer's Zach O'Clair, 6-3, in the third-place match.
Placing fourth for ELC were Zech Origer (126), Royce Coakley (152) and Kylan Fitzgerald (182).
Garrett Paulson (138) and Isaac Hanson (285) both placed fifth. Ethan Crees (160) placed sixth.
ELC will travel to the Class 2A Sectional Tournament in Spirit Lake this Friday. Other teams competing are Central Lyon/George-Little Rock, Cherokee, Sheldon-South O'Brien, Spencer and host Spirit Lake Park. First and second-place winners in each weight class with advance to the district tournament at Sioux Center on Saturday, Feb. 10.
2018 Lakes Conference
Wrestling Tournament
Team scores
Spirit Lake Park 224, Storm Lake 199, LeMars 190, Spencer 154, Cherokee 150, ELC 122, Western Christian 109


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The first award is for Best Clarinet Solo Of The Year. If there's only one thing in the world that everyone agrees on, it's that there's absolutely nothing better than a clarinet solo, right? There's Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue with its slippery dreamy glissando at the beginning. Then there's Debussy's Premiere Rhapsodie, which shifts silkily from jaunty staccato notes to chocolate-smooth legato and effortlessly back. However, this year something came along which, in 15 seconds, completely tanned the arse of every other clarinet solo you've ever heard in your life. That something was, of course, Kevin Brolly of Admiral Fallow. Squealing Pigs begins with confused contemplation on the future, relaying the conflicting advice that everyone tries to give you during adolescence as you decide what you want to do with your life. Then Brolly comes along and the song is transformed into a glorious, joyful stomp, one in which you know everything will work out alright in the end.
This years 'Look At Me!!!! I'm Seeking Attention!!!!' Award, and also the award for Most Out-Of-Time Singer At A Gig goes to that lassie that was standing stage-right when The Twilight Sad played an acoustic set in support of The Unwinding Hours. She was utterly awful yet insisted on belting out the words to every song at the top of her voice, obviously not realising that the louder she sang the less she (and the rest of us!!) would actually be able to hear The Twilight Sad themselves. This meant she ended up being a good three or four bars out of time throughout. James Graham, to his credit, managed to ignore it for the most part until And She Would Darken The Memory when he stopped and drawled, 'ah cannae understand this, sorry. You're daein wan 'hing, am daein another'. Showing incredible restraint, he offered to dedicate the song to her if she didn't sing any more, rather than abrasively telling her to shut the fuck up (which I probably would have done if I was in his position). You can watch it here.
The award for Most Interesting And Eventful Life In The Scottish Music Scene could go to no person other than Mr Tunes himself, Jim Connick. Anyone who follows him on Twitter will no doubt agree with me that his life is far more eventful than anyone else who has ever lived. Off the top of my head, this year Jim:
- stabbed himself in the leg whilst sitting at his computer
- almost set himself on fire whilst smoking a cigarette in his house
- managed to get punched by an angry ex-Poundland employee who had recently lost his job
- pulled an ex-girlfriend on a night out then went back to hers and tweeted for the duration
- fell over many times
- was run over by a woman in a wheelchair
- took a pregnancy test which came up positive
- was involved in a bus crash
- had his ball sack ripped open during a game of football
- Fell down the stairs.
- Fell down the stairs. Again.
The 'Where The Fuck Did He Go?' Award for World's Longest Microphone cable goes to Matt Berninger of The National, who decided to jump into the O2 Academy crowd and use his manliness to try and fight his way all the way to the back. And then he kept going. And going. And going. Eventually he reached the bar and had to come back so the rest of the band could finish the song. Speaking to him after the gig, he told me he was trying to go down the road to the House of Sher so he could get some tacky plastic ornaments for his mantelpiece, but the rest of the guys probably wouldn't like him doing that because last time he was there he bought them all a fake Action Man and a foosty pelmet.
Until next year, when hopefully I'll be able to think of some more, farewell.


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We are a truly multicultural enterprise which is reflected in our expertise in authentically ethnic ingredients. Giro has catered for an array of elite award winning restaurants for a number of years.
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Our portfolio of restaurants throughout the UK and in Europe is growing rapidly due to our unbeatable value proposition.
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Next Episode of Afdeling, De is
not planed. TV Show was canceled.
A series about a group of colleagues on a department. They all have their own little problems.
Looks like something went completely wrong!
But don't worry - it can happen to the best of us,
- and it just happened to you.
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The Santa Cruz trek originating just outside of Huaraz, an Andean city 7 hours from the Peruvian capital of Lima, is largely considered one of the world's best hikes.
For adventure lovers traveling to Peru (or those seeking a different thrill than hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu), there is no better place to base yourself out of than the city of Huaraz. Situated in the central region of the country's Andean mountain range, Huaraz is the perfect jump off spot to some of the most picturesque trekking and climbing destinations in not only Peru but the world, and being in the high Sierra, is also a cornerstone to some of the most representative and authentic Peruvian traditions and customs. There are many trails one could embark on, many lasting just 1 day making them great for acclimating to the high altitude, but one of the more popular and breathtaking is the 4-day Santa Cruz trek.
The Santa Cruz trek in the Cordillera Blanca (White Range) is regularly considered one of the top journeys on earth, making it a clear choice for any unforgettable trip to Peru. It takes trekkers past a number of striking mountain lagoons, through lush and verdant valleys that continue as far as the eye can see, and over a high pass adjacent to a most awe-inspiring glacier. In preparation, challengers should make a point to bring all the provisions and equipment they will need to survive in the wild for a few days, since there are no facilities along the way. This is nature as pristine as can be found. Those who want a more stress-free time can hire a guide and porter to carry their items. However, conveniently, the trail continues along the banks of a river the entire time, so a dependable water source should not be a worry for hikers.
The white peaks of the Cordillera Blanca (White Range) are some of the highest in the world outside of the Asian Himalayas.
Overall, the easier starting point is regarded to be the little town of Cochapampa (2800 meters) about 1.5 hours from the town of Caraz, which in turn is about 2 hours from Huaraz. The beauty of these routes all served by public transportation will properly whet your appetite for the trek to come. From Cochapampa, the first day of the hike is a 6 to 7 hour, 10 kilometer uphill walk advancing more than 900 meters in altitude. However difficult this may be, don't get discouraged because the glory of the first campsite at Llamacorral (3760 meters) will properly help you recuperate for the second day.
The second day, trekkers will wake up in the fertile valley and move towards the smaller Ichiccocha and larger Jatuncocha lakes. Peaceful cows and horses accent the landscape while the occasional waterfall draws vertical streaks along the mountainsides. The walk on this day is rather easy though long especially compared with the previous day. In the late afternoon, you should reach the second campsite of Taullipampa (4250 meters) which lies just below the shadow of the Centillo peak and its glaring white glacier. Here, you will be humbled by the immenseness of nature, so far removed from any other Peru destinations.
The valleys on either sides of the Punta Union pass, which stands at over 4750 meters above sea level, are uniquely different in their own stunning details.
Finally, it is the third day that stands as the highlight for most visitors. This is the day for crossing the Punta Union pass at over 4750 meters above sea level. From Taullipampa, it is a 3 hour slightly gradual uphill journey taking you ever closer to the Centillo glacier and providing views of the long distant lakes you passed the day before. If trekkers had not felt the effects of altitude yet, heading toward the pass might make quite a punch so drink lots of water or even take a sirocho pill to counter any symptoms. Reaching the Punta Union pass by noon will allow for a most stunning lunch location as you admire the icy blue lake under the nearby peak and the black granite-flanked valley lying ahead of you. The second half of the day on the other side of Punta Union is vastly different and arguably more densely dramatic than the Santa Cruz trek has been yet, as it is possible to witness multiple waterfalls, white-capped peaks, lakes, and lush high altitude vegetation all from single viewpoints. Camping at Cachinapampa (2950 meters) will be a nice break after the most exciting of days.
The fourth day, then, is mostly about walking out of the Huascaran National Park and congratulating yourself on a job well done. Crossing the Punta Union pass more than 4750 meters above the earth definitely earns bragging rights! The final challenge is the steep climb up to the town of Vaqueria (3600 meters) where trekkers can catch rides back to town, whether it be Caraz, Yungay, or Huaraz. Be sure to arrive in Vaqueria by 1 pm at the latest so you don't miss the last minivan or bus of the day. On the meandering drive down, relish in having accomplished and experienced the world-renowned Santa Cruz trek!


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HOT ROD checked in with its 93-year-old first employee, former cartoon and humor director, ad manager, and Stroker McGurk's creator Tom Medley. Tom and his cherry '40 coupe survived a garage fire a couple of years ago. Tom is fine, though the coupe needed a lot of help thanks to the support efforts of Vintage Air's Jack Chisenhall, shown, and the rebuilding efforts of Escondido's Hot Rods and Custom Stuff. Finished last August, Tom's enjoying his new/old hot rod, recently bringing it to HOT ROD's Homecoming event in March. His garage is rebuilt, and he's even playing around with a new upholstery sewing machine. Wouldn't it be cool to tell your friends Stroker McGurk sewed up your interior? We doubt Tom's getting in the upholstery business, but look for him to enlighten us on the good old days of HOT ROD, and the good new days ahead in a future HOT ROD Unlimited.
Checking In With HOT ROD's Stroker McGurk
Written by wpengine on


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Sony Mobile Communications
This morning, Sony Mobile opened up its booth at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, introducing the new Xperia Z4 Tablet and Xperia M4 Aqua, alongside a range of new experiences. If you missed it,you can check out the video below.
Our new President & CEO, Hiroki Totoki, also took to the stage to share his vision for Sony Mobile's future, setting the course for innovation driven by consumer insights and a fresh entrepreneurial spirit.
"We're at a point where delivering a better user experience means going beyond what is currently available in the market," said Hiroki Totoki, President & CEO, Sony Mobile Communications. "We must redefine how products can enrich our lives with the communications possibilities that they create. And Sony Mobile has the innovators that will take these next steps."
"Our success will come not just from optimizing our core smartphone business – but from new ideas, new business opportunities and new ways of working. So that, no matter what challenges we encounter, we will deliver products and services that excite and entertain. We will minimize our business volatility, in this highly volatile industry."
"Mobile remains an important part of the Sony Group. And the reason for that is quite simple. Smartphones, tablets, smartwear and mobile services are firmly rooted in our daily lives. They're often the last thing we see before bed and the first when we see when we wake up," added Kazuo Hirai, President & CEO, Sony Corporation. "Sony has always been about doing what has never been done before. And the next phase of Sony Mobile is all about carrying that spirit forward, and making sure to entertain and 'wow' our customers around the world."
But at Sony Mobile, we also know that beautiful products are just the start of what we can offer to our customers. Which is why Dennis van Schie, SVP, Sales & Marketing for Sony Mobile also shared details on our plans to enhance our customers' experience through the combination of products, software, content and services.
"Our customers tell us they want their technology to serve them – not dictate to them. With Xperia Z4 Tablet and Xperia M4 Aqua, we are expanding the range of choice for our customers, delivering meaningful innovation with the experiences they value the most – whether it's with a long-lasting battery, a brilliant entertainment experience or the highest level of waterproofing," said Dennis van Schie, SVP, Sales & Marketing for Sony Mobile Communications.
Xperia Z4 Tablet – the world's slimmest and lightest 10" tablet[i]
Delivering a best in class entertainment experience thanks to the world's brightest 10.1 inch 2K display of the leading tablets[ii] and long battery life (up to 17 hours of video playback), the beautifully crafted Xperia Z4 Tablet is an impressively powerful Android tablet that delivers all the portable performance you need for an entertaining and busy lifestyle. Xperia Z4 Tablet's IP68 waterproof and dust-tight[iii] rating makes it ideal for everyday use – now with a capless micro-USB charging for added convenience. For a laptop style experience, the BKB50 Bluetooth Keyboard features a dedicated slot for Xperia Z4 Tablet with 0-130 degree tilt for adjustable comfort, efficient text input and laptop style touchpad.
Xperia M4 Aqua – no compromise camera, design and performance
"Xperia M4 Aqua is what we are calling a 'super mid-range' flagship. We believe it will completely redefine what customers can expect in its price range," continued van Schie.
Offering some of the premium features made popular by the Xperia Z series, Xperia M4 Aqua sets a new standard for what consumers can expect from a mid-range smartphone. With an amazing 13MP camera with Superior Auto Mode; premium design with the highest level of waterproofing[iv] and capless micro-USB charging; and brilliant performance with up to two-day battery life, Xperia M4 Aqua delivers the premium experiences that consumers want most at an accessible price point.
Continuing to reach customers with Xperia Lounge
Starting this week, Sony Mobile's Xperia Lounge service will be getting a new look and feel, with enhanced year-round offers and information for Xperia customers – no matter which product they have. Whether it's through Xperia Lounge Silver, which is available to all Xperia customers, or Xperia Lounge Gold for Xperia Z series owners, customers will get access to exclusive competitions and offers; be among the first to try out new apps; and enjoy the latest movies, TV episodes and music included with their device.
In addition, Sony Mobile will be exploring new partnerships, delivering unique experiences and unforgettable moments for customers to discover the extraordinary in the everyday.
"Through the rest of this year and beyond we are going to continue to deliver experiences beyond hardware – with services and partnerships – to surprise and delight our customers," continued van Schie. "To help our customers discover what they can experience through their Xperia, we'll be investing heavily in Xperia Lounge. It's a customised, personalised, service that introduces them to the world of Sony, personalised for them."
We'll be continuing to share more from Mobile World Congress over the course the week. For those who missed it, we'll be sharing the full video of the executive welcome later today and you can follow all the news from Sony Mobile on Twitter at #SonyMWC.


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Tuesday, 3 September 2013
OOTD // OMGFashion
Sorry it's another OOTD post! This was the only post I had written up!
Dress*: OMGFashion
Necklace: Kukee
Today I have another Autumnal OOTD for you! As summer comes to an end the darker clothes start to come out, with Burgandy shades being a particular favourite of mine. I love this OMGFashion Dress, it is the perfect transitional skater dress from Summer to Autumn. It has 3/4 length sleeves to keep you just that little bit warmer as the weather gets colder. It is also made out of good quality thick material, I didn't expect it to be very good quality for only £15 but the quality is great!
I really love this dress but unfortunately it is a little short for me. At the front I could get away with it but at the back it only just covers my bum! I'm 5"8 going on 5"9, I think if you are a few inches shorter, maybe 5"6 or shorter this would be perfect for you! Although I can't wear this dress myself, I've passed it onto Hannah from BeginnersBeauty, I would definitely recommend it to shorter girls.
When picking a size I was a bit unsure because I'm a 10/12 but they only had 8/10 and 12/14. I went for the 12/14 and found it fits well, a little baggy on the arms but other than that it is fine. I'd say to definitely size up if you are stuck between 2 sizes. I think the Kukee necklace really ties in the outfit as well, the dress is quite plain so a statement necklace like this goes perfectly!
Overall I'm really impressed with this OMGFashion dress! I've got my eye on this jumper from them now!
Thanks for reading,
Shona x
Don't forget to check out my advertiser's blogs as well! My 2 Platinum Advertisers for September are Gillian from weegillie.com and Casey fromcaseyslifeandotherstuff. Also take a look at Laur's blog MissLJBeauty and Molly's blog WhatMollyLoves, they are my Gold Advertisers!
If you are interested in advertising on freshbeautyxox find out more information here!
FILED UNDER // fashion
22 comments
- Anonymous3 September 2013 at 11:12
It's a lovely dress xReplyDelete
Really love your outfit posts Shona. It's a lovely dress and the necklace works really well with it.ReplyDelete
Water Painted Dreams
Such a shame it is too short for you, this really looks gorgeous on you!ReplyDelete
Gorgeous dress, shame it was too short. Must try it myself since I'm only 5 ft 1!ReplyDelete
Really nice dress! SxReplyDelete
I love this colour for Autumn! xxReplyDelete
It's a shame it was too short of you. The colour and the shape really suit you. Ps. You have amazing legs lady! xoReplyDeleteReplies
Shame it was a bit short because it looks lovely! I love the necklace xReplyDelete
- Anonymous3 September 2013 at 19:17
Aww cute outfit :)ReplyDelete
Serenity of Beauty
Love the dress on you!!ReplyDelete
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© Shona Louise. All rights reserved.


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The Upward Bound program will come to an end Thursday after 36 years in existence at the University of Florida unless the U.S. Department of Education grants an appeal for funding that was filed last week.
The summer session of the Upward Bound program was saved by the University of Florida, and is back on track minus the Summer Olympics event.
"Fortunately, the dean (Joe Glover, interim dean of College of Liberal Arts) did not impose major cuts in funding for student housing, salaries for faculty and staff and local programming activities for students (this summer)," said Barbara McDade, the director of the program. "The major cut was for our participation in the annual Summer Olympics, which consist of Upward Bound students from throughout the state competing in sports, public speaking, chess, brain bowl, art, etc."
"We will substitute a field day on the last day of the summer session," McDade continued. "The field day competitions will be among UB summer students and we may be able to invite high school students who are concurrently attending other summer residential programs on the UF campus."
Orientation for the summer session will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday in Little Hall at UF. The summer session runs from June 10-July 13, with students to be housed in Reid Hall located on NW 13th Street across from Norman Hall.
"We will be able to hold some of the extras, like the banquet and the annual pageant, but probably not the field trips," said Annetta McCloud, associate director of Upward Bound program.
"If we don't get funding from DOE, there will not be an Upward Bound program at UF for the next four years," said McCloud.
This means that when the summer session ends in July, the students will not be the only ones left out in the cold. McCloud and other staff who are employed through the grant stand to lose their jobs.
"I will be without a job after seven years with the program," said McCloud. "I hope to stay at UF, but there are no guarantees."
Acording to McDade, because of errors she said was made by the reviewers when evaluating the proposal for funding, McDade is cautiously optimistic DOE will reconsider funding the Upward Bound program.
In an appeal to DOE, McDade cited specific errors that were "obvious and significant." She also pointed out discrepancies in their evaluation.
In one instance, she said, the reviewers compared the dropout rate to the national rate, and McDade pointed out they should have compared the rate instead to the state of Florida's dropout rate. To a reviewer's comment, the applicant failed to show that the college-going rate is significantly low in all targeted areas, when it is higher than the state rate, McDade pointed out the numbers are skewed because Alachua County is affected by the presence of the University of Florida. To provide a more accurate picture, she said the proposal provided data for two zip codes within the county where a large number of student's live. In another instance, a reviewer said the dates for the sources cited were not indicated, and thus, impossible to determine if the statistics were current. McDade pointed out that the information in question included the word "current" in the title and the sources also indicated that the statistics were recent.
To a reviewer's comment that specific information was not provided as to how the program would track students after they enter and continue in post-secondary education, McDade said the grant proposal the program submitted did in fact call for a follow-up plan to track graduates.
In another instance, a reviewer said there was not enough information about specific resources, such as space, furniture, equipment and supplies. McDade pointed out the proposal listed the space to be utilized for the program and included a detailed list of individuals who have committed to resources.
"Some of the points deducted were based on technicalities or possible confusion, which we have explained," said McDade, adding that once those points are reinstated, the proposal would score 97 points, which is five points above the cut-off level for funding.
To a reviewer's comment that the operation plan would be strengthened by strategies to obtain information, such as enrollment information at institutions where the students attend and referral to other programs for disadvantaged students, McDade countered by saying specific strategies were listed that included using the student's Social Security numbers to access a national database, and also contacting former students and their parents by mail and telephone.
To a reviewer's comment that the proposal did not include resources that will be provided by schools, community organizations and businesses, McDade responded the proposal included an extensive list of individuals from the target schools and districts who signed commitments to the program as well as letters from other colleges, businesses, and community organizations.
Upward Bound appeals for funds
The Upward Bound program will come to an end Thursday after 36 years in existence at the University of Florida unless the U.S. Department of Education grants an appeal for funding that was filed last week.


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Bishop Irenei (Steenberg)
This eminently practical series is dedicated to the cultivation of simplicity in spiritual life, and is punctuated with Bishop Irenei's sagacious piety. An extended question and answer session with Bishop Irenei and Father Josiah is included with special remarks on the Theme by His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH, Primate of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. Bishop Irenei serves as the Bishop of London and Western Europe for the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, and is well-known internationally for his superb theological scholarship and personal devotion.
Lecture #1: A Simple Faith, a Simple Heart, a Simple Encounter- The Essence of Spiritual Life
Lecture #2: Simple Prayer, Elaborate Ritual - Navigating the Orthodox Spiritual Life
Lecture #3: Cultivating a Simple Heart - The Jesus Prayer and the Interior Life of the Christian
Lecture #4: Simplicity in a Complex World - Living Simply, Ecologically, Politically, Spiritually
Lecture #5: Panel Discussion- Questions and Answers with Bishop Irenei and Father Josiah
Lecture #6: Special Remarks by Metropolitan JOSEPH on Simplicity in Christian Life