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Medicaid Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement - Introduction and Chartbooks
Under a research contract from CMS's former Office of Research, Development and Information (ORDI), now the Office of Information Products and Data Analytics, Mathematica Policy Research, Inc. (MPR) is producing a series of research products related to pharmacy benefit use and reimbursement in Medicaid. MPR is using the Medicaid Analytic eXtract (MAX) data files for calendar year 1999 and later years for these research products. The MAX files are constructed from claims and eligibility data that states submit to CMS electronically through the Medicaid Statistical Information System (MSIS).
One set of products is the Statistical Compendium: Medicaid Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement (hereafter "the Compendium") for calendar years 1999 and 2001-2009. The Compendium for each year provides detailed state-by-state and national data on the use of and reimbursement for prescription drugs in Medicaid. (A Compendium was not produced for calendar year 2000.)
Using the detailed data from the Compendium, MPR has also prepared Chartbooks for 1999 and 2001-2009. The Chartbooks present selected highlights from the Compendium and include comparisons across states. The 2001-2009 Chartbooks also include comparisons to earlier years.
The Statistical Compendium and Chartbook for 2009 do not include eight states (Hawaii, Idaho, Maine, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wisconsin) because their Medicaid Statistical Information System (MSIS) files were unavailable or contained significant data problems. These eight states accounted for approximately 7 percent of total Medicaid enrollment in 2009.
The Chartbooks are available through the link in the "Downloads" section. The Compendium Tables are available at the Medicaid Analytic Rx eXtract (MAX Rx) Table Listing page.
Medicare Coverage of Prescription Drugs for Dual Eligibles in 2006 and Later Years
The Compendiums and Chartbooks for 2006-2009 illustrate the effects of the shift of most prescription drug coverage for beneficiaries dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare to Medicare Part D beginning January 1, 2006. As a result of this shift in coverage responsibility, Medicaid expenditures for prescription drugs for dual eligibles dropped from $21.85 billion in 2005 to $1.59 billion in 2006, $1.26 billion in 2007, $1.24 billion in 2008, and $1.02 billion in 2009, and total Medicaid expenditures for prescription drugs for all beneficiaries dropped from $40.19 billion in 2005 to $20.03 billion in 2006, rising to $20.53 billion in 2007, $22.51 billion in 2008, and $22.54 billion in 2009.
The Statistical Compendiums show use and reimbursement by beneficiary demographic characteristics (age, sex, and race), basis of eligibility (children, adults, disabled, and aged), and Medicare and Medicaid dual eligible status. The compendiums are arranged as sets of national-level or state-specific tables covering use and reimbursement for all beneficiaries (available for 1999 and 2001-2009); for only "nondual" Medicaid beneficiaries who are not also eligible for Medicare (available for 2001-2009); and for "dual eligible" Medicaid beneficiaries who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (available for 1999 and 2001-2009). There is also a set of national comparison tables available for each of those years.
The reason for creating separate sets of tables for dual eligibles and non-duals, which started with the 2001 tables that Mathematica produced in calendar year 2006, is that Medicare assumed responsibility for almost all prescription drug coverage for dual eligibles on January 1, 2006 under the new Part D Medicare program. As a result, states are now interested primarily in prescription drug use and reimbursement for Medicaid beneficiaries who are not dual eligibles, while use and reimbursement for dual eligibles is now of interest primarily to those concerned with Medicare Part D. By providing a full set of tables for each of these two main subgroups of Medicaid beneficiaries for 2001-2009, the Compendium facilitates separate analysis of the results by states and those interested in Part D. With the addition of data for 2006-2009, it is now possible to determine in detail the volume and types of drugs for dual eligibles that Medicaid continued to pay for in those years. As discussed further below, there are tables that highlight use and reimbursement for some drugs that are excluded by statute from Part D coverage, and that most states remain responsible for to varying degrees.
- The data tables provide statistics for all Medicaid beneficiaries who had fee-for-service (FFS) pharmacy benefit coverage for at least one month during the calendar year, whether or not they filled a prescription in that month.
- There are national tables and state-level tables for 50 states and the District of Columbia.
- The Medicaid prescription drug reimbursement amounts, as reported by states in MSIS, are gross amounts prior to the receipt of rebates from prescription drug manufacturers.
- Beneficiaries who were in capitated managed care arrangements for the entire year for their prescription drug benefits are excluded.
- For beneficiaries who were in capitated managed care for part of the year and FFS for part of the year, only their FFS months are included.
The download "Exhibit 1" shows counts of the included and excluded groups for 2001. Exhibits 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, and 25 show the same information for 2002 to 2009. In the detailed state and national tables, the beneficiaries who are included are generally referred to as the "study population."
A number of states include beneficiaries in capitated managed care arrangements, but pay for their prescription drugs through the FFS system. We have sought to the extent possible to include both these beneficiaries and their prescription drugs in the study population, but it is not always possible to identify the specific benefit coverage features of managed care arrangements with complete confidence. As a result, there may be situations in some states in which beneficiaries are included in the study population while their drugs are not, and vice versa.
Use and Reimbursement "Per Benefit Month"
Most of the tables in the Compendium show service use and reimbursement for Medicaid prescription drugs "per benefit month." This is the average amount of use and reimbursement per month for all months during the year in which beneficiaries had FFS pharmacy benefit coverage, whether or not they received a prescription in those months. This is essentially the same approach that actuaries use to calculate "per member per month" estimates in capitated managed care settings.
Exceptions. In Tables 3, ND.3, ND.11, D.3, and D.11 there are estimates of use and reimbursement "per beneficiary." This includes all use and reimbursement during the year for the number of months of coverage. Thus, some beneficiaries in these tables may have had only one month of coverage, while others were covered for 12 months. Similarly, Supplemental Tables 1 and 1A-1D that show mean annual reimbursement for dual eligibles and annual reimbursement per-dual-eligible beneficiary in $500 increments ($0, $1 to $500, $501 to $1,000, etc.) include all dual eligible beneficiaries for the number of months of Medicaid pharmacy coverage they had in 2001 to 2009. Since most dual eligible beneficiaries are continuously enrolled, the average number of enrolled months for dual eligibles in 2009 was 10.5 months at the national level. As discussed in more detail below in the "Supplemental $500 Increment Tables for Dual Eligibles" subsection of the "Major Tables Features," the data in these supplemental tables can be combined with data in Table D.2 to calculate monthly or annualized 12-month per-beneficiary measures of use and reimbursement.
Drug Types
The tables show drug use and reimbursement by brand status (patented brand name, off-patent brand name, and generic), therapeutic category (cardiovascular agents, central nervous system drugs, etc.) and drug group (anti-psychotics, anti-depressants, ulcer drugs, etc.).
Medicaid prescription drug use and reimbursement could not be reported at this level of detail prior to 1999, since that was the first year that all states were required to submit person-level data electronically under MSIS.
State-by-State Managed Care Penetration Rates
In a feature added to the Compendium for 2002 and subsequent years, Appendix Tables A.3 and A.6 in the national tables for nonduals and duals show capitated managed care penetration rates by state and by eligibility category. The tables show the number and percent of beneficiaries who were enrolled in comprehensive managed care plans (MCOs, HMOs, or HIOs) for the full year. Appendix Table A.3 shows penetration rates for all nonduals combined and for aged/disabled and adults/children nondual eligibility categories. Appendix Table A.6 shows penetration rates for all dual eligible beneficiaries combined and for aged duals and duals who are in disabled, adult, or children eligibility categories.
The download "Exhibit 2" shows the distribution of Medicaid beneficiary characteristics in 2001 for those beneficiaries included in the study population. Exhibits 5, 8, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, and 26 show the same information for 2002 to 2009.
The download "Exhibit 3" shows some illustrative measures of pharmacy benefit use and reimbursement for 2001. Exhibits 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, and 27 show the same information for 2002 to 2009.
How To Find the Tables
The Statistical Compendium Tables are available through the "Medicaid Analytic eXtract (MAX) Rx Table Listing" link in the "Related Links" section. The tables are available in either PDF or Excel formats. There are national and state-specific tables, which are categorized into 3 sets: (1) All Beneficiaries, (2) Nonduals, and (3) Duals.
Within the set of national and state-specific tables for All Beneficiaries, Table 1 provides an overview of the beneficiary selection criteria for the study population that is featured in the tables. The subsequent six tables cover all Medicaid beneficiaries in the study population (Tables 2-7). Additionally, in the national set of tables only, there are eight "National Comparison Tables" (Tables N.1a and N.1b and N.2 through N.7) that show a variety of state-by-state comparisons, as well as state-by-state comparisons of managed care penetration rates for nonduals (Table A.3) and duals (Table A.6) starting in 2002.
Within the set of national and state-specific tables for Nonduals, there are 12 tables that focus just on nondual beneficiaries (Tables ND.2-ND.13) and two appendix tables (A.1 and A.2).
Similarly, in the national and state tables for Duals, Tables D.2-D.13 and Tables A.4 and A.5 focus just on dual eligible beneficiaries. In addition, there are six "supplemental" tables in the set of duals tables that show annual pharmacy reimbursement in $500 increments for all dual eligibles, disabled duals under age 65, all duals age 65 and older, and duals ages 65-74, 75-84, and 85 and over.
Brand Name vs. Generic Comparisons
Comparisons of use and reimbursement for patented brand name, off-patent brand name, and generic drugs are in Tables 5 and 6 for all Medicaid beneficiaries combined, Tables ND.5, ND.6, and ND.9 for nondual beneficiaries, and Tables D.5, D.6, and D.9 for dual eligible beneficiaries. National comparison tables (N.2 and N.5) show data for all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Nursing Facility Comparisons
There are six tables that show pharmacy benefit use and reimbursement for full-year residents of nursing facilities, since there is extensive prescription drug utilization in those settings. Tables ND.8, ND.9, and ND.10 show the data for all nondual Medicaid beneficiaries, while Tables D.8, D.9, and D.10 show the data for dual eligible beneficiaries.
Therapeutic Categories
There are three tables that show pharmacy use and reimbursement in 18 broad therapeutic categories. Table 6 shows the data for all Medicaid beneficiaries combined, Table ND.6 for nonduals, and Table D.6 for duals.
Top 10 Drug Groups
Four sets of tables show use and reimbursement in the top ten drug groups, which are narrower than the therapeutic categories. The top 10 groups differ by state, as shown in Tables N.4 and N.7 in the national comparison section, so that, for example, the top drug group in one state might rank third in another.
- The top 10 drug groups for all Medicaid beneficiaries combined are in Table 7.
- The top 10 drug groups for nondual Medicaid beneficiaries are in two sets of multi-part tables: Tables ND.7 through ND.7D for all nonduals, and Tables ND.10 through ND.10D for nondual all-year nursing facility residents.
- The top 10 drug groups for dual eligible beneficiaries are also in two sets of multi-part tables: Tables D.7 through D.7D for all duals, and Tables D.10 through D.10D dual eligible all-year nursing facility residents.
Drugs Excluded by Statute from Medicare Part D
The statute that established the Medicare Part D drug benefit excluded from coverage several types of drugs (benzodiazepines, barbiturates, nonprescription drugs, cough and cold medications, etc.) that Medicaid has been allowed since 1990 to exclude from coverage, but that most states have chosen to cover to varying degrees. CMS requires state Medicaid programs to continue providing coverage of these drugs for dual eligibles after January 1, 2006 if they are covered for any other Medicaid beneficiaries. Subsequent statutory changes extended Part D coverage to benzodiazepines and barbiturates, but not until 2013. Tables ND.11 through ND.13 provide information on the utilization and cost of these drugs for nonduals in 2001-2009, and Tables D.11 through D.13 provide the same information for dual eligible beneficiaries.
National Comparison Tables
The national comparison tables show use and reimbursement for 50 states and the District of Columbia, using measures that are designed to facilitate comparisons and highlight state-by-state differences. Examples of these measures include:
- Total reimbursement per benefit month, and percentage of total prescriptions that are for patented brand name, off-patent brand name, and generic drugs (Tables N.2 [nonduals] and N.5 [duals])
- Share of benefit months, reimbursement per benefit month, and share of total Medicaid pharmacy reimbursement by aged, disabled, adult, and child eligibility categories for nonduals (Table N.3) and duals (Table N.6)
- Top 10 drug groups in each state for nonduals (Table N.4) and duals (Table N.7)
Supplemental $500 Increment Tables for Dual Eligibles
Supplemental Tables 1 and 1A through 1E for 2001-2009 in each set of dual eligible tables may be especially useful for those interested in Medicare Part D, since drug use by dual eligibles represents a large portion of Part D drug costs. These six tables show annual pharmacy reimbursement per dual eligible beneficiary in $500 increments, the number and percent of dual eligible beneficiaries in each increment, and the amount and percent of total Medicaid pharmacy reimbursement in each increment. There are separate tables for all dual eligibles combined, disabled duals under age 65, all duals age 65 and over, and duals ages 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and 85 and above. The tables also show the total number of dual eligibles in each of these age categories, the total Medicaid pharmacy reimbursement, and the mean reimbursement per beneficiary in the category.
The tables include all dual eligibles who had Medicaid FFS pharmacy benefit coverage during some or all months of Medicaid enrollment in the calendar year. The average number of months of enrollment per beneficiary nationally for duals of all ages was 10.5 months for 2001, 10.2 months for 2002, 10.6 months for 2003, 10.5 months for 2004, 10.6 months for 2005, 10.5 months for 2006, 10.6 months for 2007, 10.5 months for 2008, and 10.5 months for 2009. The average may vary by beneficiary characteristics and by state. These averages by state and by beneficiary characteristics can be calculated from the information shown in Table D.2 in the main table set for each state by dividing the number of benefit months by the number of beneficiaries. Users can then use the average number of benefit months to calculate the amount of reimbursement per benefit month by dividing mean annual reimbursement per beneficiary by the average number of months enrolled. Annualized 12-month estimates can then be made by multiplying the amount per benefit month by 12.
Illustrative example. In Table D.2 for the United States as a whole for 2009, for example, there are 6,103,966 dual eligible beneficiaries and 63,833,502 dual eligible benefit months, so the average dual eligible is enrolled for 10.46 months (63,833,502/6,103,966 = 10.46 months). There are 1,506,407 dual eligibles age 65-74 in Table D.2, and 15,842,953 benefit months, so the average enrollment for this age group of duals is 10.52 months. In Supplemental Table 1C, the mean annual pharmacy reimbursement for dual eligible beneficiaries age 65-74 is $189. Dividing that number by 10.52 months produces an average monthly reimbursement of $17.97, and an annualized 12-month reimbursement of $216 (12 x $17.97 = $216).
The 2001-2009 Statistical Compendiums contain tables that were not produced in 1999, mainly Tables ND.11-13 and D.11-13 dealing with drugs excluded by statute from Part D coverage. In addition, the tables for 2001-2009 show data separately for all Medicaid beneficiaries who are not dual eligibles, and for all those who are. In 1999, by contrast, the tables were divided between those covering all Medicaid beneficiaries (including dual eligibles), and those covering dual eligibles alone. The order of the tables has also changed somewhat between 1999 and 2001-2009. However, the basic structure of each table has remained essentially the same in order to facilitate comparisons between 1999 and 2001-2009.
The "Comparisons Between 1999 and 2001-2009 Tables" download below lists all the tables for 2001-2009 on the left and all the tables for 1999 on the right, with an indication in both cases of whether there is or is not a corresponding table in the other year or years. Where there are corresponding tables in both 1999 and 2001-2009, they are shown in the same row, even though the numbering of the tables may be different in the two periods. As noted above, the main reason for lack of correspondence between the two periods is that most of the tables for 2001-2009 separate dual eligible and nondual beneficiaries, while many of the tables for 1999 show all Medicaid beneficiaries combined.
The Chartbooks for 2001 and 2002 (see the links in the "Downloads" section below) contain 37 tables, charts, and graphs that present highlights from the Statistical Compendiums, including comparisons of use and reimbursement for major eligibility groups (aged, disabled, adults, children, dual eligibles) and types of drugs, and state rankings on key measures. The 2003 through 2007 Chartbooks contain 54 tables, charts, and graphs, since a number of additional graphs were added to show trends from 1999 to 2007. The 2008 and 2009 Chartbooks contain three additional graphs (Exhibits 55-57) that show comprehensive managed care penetration rates for nondual aged/disabled and adult/children beneficiaries, and for dual eligible beneficiaries.
There are two issue briefs readily available, which highlight information in the statistical compendiums.
- "Trends and Patterns in the Use of Prescription Drugs Among Medicaid Beneficiaries: 1999 to 2009" highlights the changes in volume of drugs used per person, changes in drug costs per person, and changes in the use of generic drugs between 1999 and 2009. The analysis focuses in particular on drug use and costs for beneficiaries with disabilities and chronic illnesses, whose drug use is much more extensive than that of children and nondisabled adults. It also focuses on some specific types of drugs that are especially costly for Medicaid: antipsychotics, antiasthmatics, ulcer drugs, antidiabetics, and antidepressants. The issue brief is available through the links in the "Downloads" section.
- "Prescription Drug Use and Cost Among Medicaid Beneficiaries with Disabilities and Chronic Illness": With the shift of prescription drug coverage for Medicaid-Medicare dual eligibles to Medicare in 2006, Medicaid prescription drug spending is now highly concentrated among nondual Medicaid-only beneficiaries under age 65 with disabilities and chronic illnesses. They accounted for 62 percent of nondual Medicaid prescription drug spending in 2007, although representing just 12 percent of nondual Medicaid beneficiaries. They often have significant behavioral health needs and complex co-existing physical and behavioral health conditions. They represent about 12 percent of the Medicaid-covered residents of nursing facilities and increasingly are being included in capitated managed care programs. This Issue Brief is available on the Mathematica Policy Research, Inc. website.
A number of exhibits were referenced on this website. They are available through the links in the "Downloads" section. Here is a brief description of the exhibits:
- Exhibit 1: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2001
- Exhibit 2: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2001
- Exhibit 3: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2001
- Exhibit 4: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2002
- Exhibit 5: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2002
- Exhibit 6: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2002
- Exhibit 7: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2003
- Exhibit 8: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2003
- Exhibit 9: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2003
- Exhibit 10: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2004
- Exhibit 11: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2004
- Exhibit 12: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2004
- Exhibit 13: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2005
- Exhibit 14: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2005
- Exhibit 15: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2005
- Exhibit 16: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2006
- Exhibit 17: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2006
- Exhibit 18: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2006
- Exhibit 19: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2007
- Exhibit 20: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2007
- Exhibit 21: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2007
- Exhibit 22: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2008
- Exhibit 23: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2008
- Exhibit 24: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2008
- Exhibit 25: Inclusions and Exclusions from the Study Population, 2009
- Exhibit 26: Beneficiary Characteristics, 2009
- Exhibit 27: Illustrative Measures of Pharmacy Benefit Use and Reimbursement, 2009


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New York Accommodations near Wall Street
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Where to stay near Wall Street
Wall Street Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What area constitutes as Wall Street- Financial District?
The Financial District encompasses roughly the area south of City Hall Park in Lower Manhattan.
Why should I visit this area?
This is actually the oldest part of Manhattan and is where the Dutch founded their settlement in the seventeenth century. Of course it is the buzzing financial heart and as such is full of iconic landmarks, buildings and history.
What are some nearby attractions?
The Financial District has a number of tourist attractions such as the adjacent South Street Seaport Historic District, the New York City Police Museum, and Museum of American Finance.
Exploring Wall Street - Financial District
With its soaring skyscrapers, busy traffic, and throngs of fast-talking Wall Street executives, the Financial District is where New York City's boisterous business personality truly comes to life. As well as being the backdrop to the world's most important wheelings and dealings, this dynamic neighborhood boasts upscale restaurants and exclusive cocktail bars for closing after-work deals—and visitors with free time may be surprised by the sightseeing opportunities to be had right in the center of corporate America.
Accommodations near Wall Street - Financial District
There is a range of options for all travelers. The most popular hotel in New York is the The Allen House (sleeps 5), which has been booked 5 times from our Hotels.com verified guests. Our guests also highly recommended The Baxter House (Sleeps 6) in New York as it has been reserved 5 times.
Sightseeing near Wall Street - Financial District
Battery Park is an oasis among the skycrapers of Wall Street. It is a cultural destination in the summer months, hosting outdoor music, theatre and dance performances. It is filled with sculptures, flower beds and fountains, locals and visitors come to bike, run, or simply relax and enjoy the gardens and harbor views.
Trinity church is a historic landmark of the FInancial District. It has been rebuilt three times; the current Trinity Church began construction in 1839 and was finished in 1846. You can come here and admire the original stained glass and sculpted bronze doors of this beautiful church.
Transportation near Wall Street - Financial District
Getting to your hotel in the Financial District is simplicity itself. Passengers arriving in JFK or Newark should catch the AirTrain to Howard Beach (JFK) or Penn Station (Newark), and then the A subway to Fulton St. From LaGuardia, hop on the Q70 bus to the Roosevelt Ave. subway, where you can ride into Lower Manhattan on the E train. Once there, the business hub of Manhattan is served by an array of metro lines, so getting around the Financial District is hassle-free and affordable. The compact neighborhood is also easily navigated on foot.
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subset: commoncrawl


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I'm a big fan of ConEmu. I've recently starting making use of the split console capability, as shown below
Getting the split screen is easy, you just have to select the option in the new console window dialog
Here's the triple split that I typically use for Node.js development:
What I really want though is my split screen setup in one easy step. Fortunately that's possible with little effort through some additional commands in ConEmu's Tasks option. What I did was created a new task called Node.js with the following options:
- Node.js – this is just the task name
- Commands
- The > before powershell.exe means that I want this console to be the active one when I start the task
- powershell.exe is listed three times, delimited by empty lines, this means I want powershell to open 3 times
- The second powershell.exe has the option -cur_console:as30H, meaning that I want it to be a horizontal split at the size of 30%
- The third powershell.exe has the option -cur_console:as30V, meaning that I want it to be a vertical split at the size of 30%. Since this comes after the second command, it will be split under the second console, as shown in the screenshot above
- Additional option: -noexit -command "$host.UI.RawUI.WindowTitle='NodeJS'" means that I want to set the title of the tab to NodeJS
Now I can get my triple split setup just by selecting the new task:
Hopefully this is useful to someone else. 🙂


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Do you feel as if you're forever running to catch up and keep up? Is finding any time at all to write a challenge for you?
Over my thirty years of writing, that has been an ongoing challenge. Often the problem was my lack of boundaries in many areas of my life. (The problem is so prevalent that, right now, I'm working on an e-book called "Boundaries for Writers" because I think we need our own set of instructions!)
Maybe you've been told you need to simplify your life—choose what really matters—and slow your pace. Great advice!
But HOW?
Reflective Thinking Brings Answers
With all the noise of modern life and the frantic running around, we have little chance to hear the inner whispers and feel the nudges that try to warn us. "Hold on—this isn't right" or "You really don't want to do this" or (with me quite often) "Don't say that!"
Sometimes life gives you the gift of stopping you in your tracks. That has happened to me several times over the years. Once I was surgically wired shut for weeks. A few years ago I ran a fever for eight days and ended up with many sleepless nights to think.
I took stock of my rat-race, anything-but-serene lifestyle, and I was appalled at how I had let "stuff" creep back in and take over my life. I asked myself some hard questions.
Your Personal Answers
If you also want to get off the merry-go-round, take a note pad and jot the answers to these questions pertaining to your own life.
- Why is my life as busy as it is?
- Why have I chosen to commit to so many things?
- What are the costs to me right now of living like this? What are the future costs?
- What tasks/meetings/jobs are no longer necessary? (Only one out of my four cancelled appointments that week needed to be rescheduled. The others, it turned out, weren't that important.)
- Which activities are things other people thought I should do?
- Which volunteer positions do I no longer enjoy?
- Which professional organizations no longer meet my needs and can be dropped?
That time of reflection was so very profitable. It enabled me to spot three big changes I could make, immediately freeing up about fifteen hours per month.
Should I? Shouldn't I?
Is your life run according to shoulds (your own or other people's?) When asked to run a concession stand at your child's school or attend a make-up or clothing party, do you agree because you feel you should, rather than because you have a real desire to do it? Do you even take time to make a thoughtful decision, or does the should rule?
In a sermon entitled "The Unhurried Life," my pastor reminded us that "NO is a complete sentence." In other words, sometimes you can just say no. Or "I'm sorry, but I can't." Period. Don't let people guilt you into doing things you just don't want to do. They don't know your schedule, your physical challenges, or that you are already maxed out.
Self-Care, not Selfish
Reassess the value of your time. Is it really more important that you do the volunteer newsletter for your neighborhood association—or that you put that time toward your writing dream? None of us likes to have people mad at us. On the other hand, it may be a price worth paying in order to have a fighting chance to realize your writing dreams.
It might sound like I'm advocating a selfish lifestyle. I'm really not. I volunteer a lot in my church, community, and with my grandkids. BUT I am advocating a sane and sensible lifestyle. You have your time and energy limits, determined by many personal factors. Know what your limits are–and find a way to stick within them.
If you have a favorite boundary-setting idea you'd like to share–especially one that works for you–please do leave a comment.
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text: Pictures of white full length wall mirror is created to be the inspiration of for you. This image was published on June 2, 2017 and published by Tsukiko Sugiyama this is fall into the category Decoration, the size of image is 800 x 800 and this post has 24 related images. If you have any questions please Contact Us. Hope it could inspire you, our beloved reader in https:oaksenham.com, back to article please click Decoration And Useful Decoration With Using Full Length Wall Mirror.


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Thursday, January 24, 2013
To get you up to speed, she lip synced the national anthem at President Obama's inauguration Monday afternoon. I'm actually okay with that.
When it comes right down to it, Beyonce is a spectacularly beautiful woman who is nothing without major studio enhancements and a lot of help during her stage shows. When you give her something as simple and barren as a microphone, she's lost.
It's 2013, where style rules over substance. It's all that counts these days. Face reality.
I should note that Aretha Franklin sang the national anthem, without help, at Obama's 2009 inauguration, and James Taylor didn't lip sync America the Beautiful Monday afternoon. As we've seen time and again-- in many facets of life, the veterans can blow away the lightweights that pass for "talent" these days.


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University of North Carolina Wilmington
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The University of North Carolina Wilmington is a public, coeducational university in Wilmington, North Carolina. The university has about 13,401 students. It was founded in 1947. The current chancellor of the university is Rosemary DePaolo.
Sports[change | change source]
The athletics teams of the university are called the Seahawks. They have 19 varsity teams and they compete in the Colonial Athletic Association.


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This is the email that I received from a local yarn shop here in Chicago that caught my interest.
"Cruisette on the FoxSaturday 9/20 at 3pm
The weather forecast is for a glorious day. 80 degrees and sunny.
You can still join us on the Cruisette from Saint Charles on the Fox River Belle to enjoy wine, desserts and knitting in great company. Come on Saturday at 3pm and and have some fun with us. It's going to bes sunny, so we'll be able to enjoy the upper deck; if it gets rainy then there's plenty of space on the covered deck to knit in comfort.
Tickets are available online, or you can call the store at 630.232.2305 to save your space.
The dock is located on the east side of the Fox River in Pottawatomie Park, St. Charles, Illinois. Pottawatomie Park is located between routes 25 and 31, north of Route 64. Click on the map for detailed directions. We sail at 3pm."
Now doesn't that sound like fun. Well, I thought so......
I arrived early because I did not want to "miss the boat". The first person I met was a lovely lady named Gretl that introduced me to her friends and made me feel very welcome.
It was so funny, she was working on a vest that is on the cover of the September 2008, Creative Knitting. I had purchased that issue without looking inside because of that vest.
One of the ladies said that the trip up and down the river would take 3 hours. We all starting thinking about Gilligan's Island and hoping that we had brought enough to knit.
The group started to arrive and excitement was in the air. I believe that there was 37 people. It had been 5o but because of the bad weather the weekend before, the trip had to be cancelled and reschedule to this weekend. Quite a few people had to cancel.
We received a bag of goodies that I can not find. I do hope I did not knock it out of my bag. We received a ball of yarn, pattern for a market bag and the cutiest knitting needles. I really do not know where to look for it. I am quite sad :(
Here or some of the ladies up top enjoying the warm breeze, scenery and company. We just knitted away. Of course, there was munchies,
While we were taking our "Cruisette", we passed a wedding in progress. Isn't this a beautiful setting for a wedding!!!
I think the highlight of our trip down the Fox River was our serenade.
We passed him a couple of times. Glad I had my camera.
I truly had a great time. Wish you were here.


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3 hours. 2 sheets of cheap CDX 3/8" plywood, 10 1×2s, 2 2×2s, a sheet of plastic, 2 tubes of caulk, a bunch of deck screws, a few nails, some rope, some ductape, a few other details. Hand tools only, except for battery powered drill/drivers. And then you race.
An amazing day out at the end of April in Bodega Bay here in Sonoma County in Northern California, I highly recommend coming out for it, either as a contestant (and this two-year winner is thinking about ways to approach the competition with more whimsy and attempt to wow the crowd, which will probably lead to a schism in our team, if anyone's interested in going my way, or anyone wants to work with our other team mainstay who's a long-time yacht and furniture builder and who has a lot to teach on going for more speed) or as a spectator. A few of my favorites:
In order: A kayak whose paddler rolled in competition, Craig's origami folded sailboat (pushing cheap plywood construction to new levels), a long outrigger boat that was serious competition in the speed category, the high school student team we trained with, that didn't manage to build what we'd hoped they would, but still made it around the course, and our boat.
More pictures at my personal site of this year's competition, and last year's competition.
-- Dan Lyke, Petaluma California, http://www.flutterby.net/User:DanLyke


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Singapore's top notch wedding planner, The Wedding Entourage is synonymous to effortlessly elegant and glamorous weddings. Whichever your fancy, The Wedding Entourage team is dedicated to ensuring that your most important day plays out the way you want it to be. Founded in 2003, Ms Caroline Yakob-Lim first discovered her flair in putting together the perfect social ball during her days in the Melbourne Methodist Ladies College.
Headed by Caroline, the team at The Wedding Entourage specializes in creating lavish talk-of-town wedding affairs dubbed as Singapore society weddings attended by high-profile personalities and socialites. Beyond the grandeur and glamour, she believes the key to a perfect wedding is the important touches that define perfection: from the exclusive venue and the decadent dinner menu to the stellar entertainment. So if you're looking for an all-out affair that's laced in grandeur, Caroline is your go-to wedding planner!


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You've chosen mid-coast Maine as the place to get married because it's perfect! Amazing natural beauty, towns that are hip but still hold on to their authenticity, friendly people around every corner – it just feels right. And that's how you'll feel when you walk through the door at Seasons Downeast Designs to select your wedding flowers.
We look forward to learning about you as a couple, hearing your story and helping you write the next chapter – your perfect wedding. Our designers are accomplished in many styles: romantic, lush and timeless; organic, flowing and graceful; modern, clean and crisp. Whether a barn, a boat, or a ballroom, we'll highlight the beauty of your venue and add a splash of Seasons' sparkle to make it shine!
Our flowers come from our own cutting gardens, from neighbors' farms and from growers across the globe. We source locally when possible and reach beyond our borders when necessary. We stand out from other florists because we provide more than gorgeous flowers. Our attics are full of treasures: antique mercury glass votives, salvaged lobster traps, vintage bottles, weathered blueberry boxes and silver candlesticks... you never know what we'll find to add that unique touch!
We'd be honored to be part of your special event. From an intimate elopement to a lavish multi-day affair, we welcome all budgets and all couples. We look forward to planning your wedding day with you!
Download our Wedding Worksheet
Download our Wedding Contract


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You got zOS LPAR MQ delay questions? -- well we got answers !
JoeWinterton 110000BXHR Visits (9651)
Problem solving example with OMEGAMON XE on zOS V5.3 using RMF Monitor III DDS in the Enhanced 3270UI is pretty slick.
So we ask now with the "X" at 8 AM -what the work delays look like on SYSPLEX ZPETPLX2 for CPC 094E15 and the RMF MII data shows us, We click to sort it by CPU Wait percentage and look at what a great job WLM is doing as the Service Classes that are delayed are our discretionary Service Classes so WLM delayed the correct work until we get down to the CSQ1MSTR - MQ address space running on Z1. Lets explore that LPAR and address space at 8AM time frame.
Who and what are impacting CSQ1MSTR at 8AM? We see the biggest impactor for general purpose processors as CICS3A1A and it impacts CSQ1MSTR 19% of the time(cut off but trust me on these). We also see device P2PP34 and it is a minor 3% impactor.
Lets also look at 8AM for the whole Service Class STCI2V40 and we see many MQ address spaces delayed too across all the SYSPLEX LPARs.
Looking back at our CSQ1MSTR for details of the address space at 8AM we can see a complete picture of its use of CPU, Real Storage, Common Storage and Memory objects(some values cut off here) at that time.
This all takes me back to maybe where I should of started in the first place, looking at the CPC itself and how our SYSPLEX LPAR Z1 is setup to get a share the machine. CPC 094E15 is very stressed at 97.3% busy at this time. When I look at Logical CP percent vs Physical CP percent Effective and Total, the share Z1 is just not getting enough processor power to allow it to service our Service Class STCI2V40 Z1 work any better.
Looking at LPAR Z1 share of the CPC 094E15 we get more details and it shows it does not have capping on.
Now we could also quickly go over to the OMEGAMON XE for Messaging workspaces and see how the queue manager was handling the work during this timeframe where the LPAR was not getting enough CPU. It is a sea of RED here so we are having impacts in the timeframe.
We can continue to explore MQ CSQ1 queue delays and issues from here too.
This scenario shows from the OMEGAMON XE on zOS v 5.3 with the Enhanced 3270UI now using the RMF Monitor III DDS history information to follow a question of why my MQ work was not performing at its best at 8AM. We looked back and were quickly able to see the CPC was not giving enough CPU to this workload to have it perform better. Very powerful and it answers my question quickly.


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Ruff Trigger: Vanocore Conspiracy Gameplay Movie 1
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Clare Woods @ Modern Art
Clare Woods is an artist that is tottering on the edge of stardom. She's been taken under the wing of some of the arts biggest movers and shakers. Popular with young collectors, popular with old collectors. Just generally all round popular.
She has made some pretty monumental paintings in her time. Haunting landscapes that capture an unusual feeling, like when you're a kid and you find a secret place in the forest and get butterflies in your stomach. It feels like the spirit of Peter Lanyon is there watching over the works, which is a good thing.
Her technique of spreading flows of oil paint onto metal is an interesting one and works to obscure the naturalistic details of her subject matter and transform them into more abstract territories. For her new show at Modern Art, Woods has made a series of smaller paintings under the moniker "The Bad Neighbour"
These new paintings don't punch me in the stomach like previous works have. Most obviously the lack of scale causes me to focus more on the technique than i might do normally and i don't think it holds up on a small canvas. The lack of detail purposefully employed to suggest abstraction ends up suggesting a lack of craft.
I feel perhaps Woods may need to adjust course if she continues to paint small works. Perhaps that gap should be filled by her drawings which i've seen and are lovely.
This exhibition is now finished.


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D&S Researcher Robyn Caplan considers whether Facebook is saving journalism or ruining it:
The question of whether Facebook is saving or ruining journalism is not relevant here because, like it or not, Facebook is a media company. That became more apparent recently as human editors became a visible part of Facebook's news curation process. In truth, this team is only a tiny fraction of a network of actors whose decisions affect the inner workings of Facebook's platform and the content we see.
Reporters and media:
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Unless otherwise noted this site and its contents are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license. | Privacy policy


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Suitable for: psoriasis, eczema and all kinds of skin diseases. New generation of skin cream preparation for external use traditional Chinese medicine.
Main ingredients :soil park skin, sophora, common cnidium fruit, belvedere fruit, cortex dictamni, cortex phellodendri, honeylocust thorn, unicorn, lotus, radix stemonae, Indian buead, seven swords, iron Holly, white petroleum jelly, menthol, purified water.
Scope of application : applicable to skin sterilization and bacteriostasis.Such as staphylococcus aureus (rotting aureus), candida albicans (fungus).
Recommended : acute or chronic dermatitis, eczema, tinea manus (Hong Kong foot, fungal), body tinea (sweat stain), psoriasis, peeling, blister, bad feet, the feet itch, pruritus vulvae, hemorrhoids, mosquito bites, acne, prickly heat, itchy skin.
Usage and dosage : external use, the right amount of this product to put on the skin to wash affected area, 2 to 3 times a day, can be used again one to two weeks after symptoms disappear, to prevent recurrence.
Note : this product is for external use only avoid oral.
4x 15g tubes.
Shelf life: two years.


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ANDERSON, S.C. --- Junior Valerie Hickey hit her first career homerun in game one and junior Charlie Dutton tossed a shutout in game while the Lees-McRae softball team earned a split with Anderson (S.C.) Sunday afternoon at the AU Softball Complex in Anderson, S.C.
Anderson (S.C.) 9, Lees-McRae 1 (5 Innings)
The Trojans (1-0) opened their season with a win thanks to a four-RBI effort from Cailah Niles. The Bobcats (0-1) enjoyed a two-hit performance from freshman Noel Cassidy (Myrtle Beach, S.C.).
AU used a pair of walks to start a first inning rally while Madison Bivins and Augie Pena combined for three RBI.
The Trojans scratched across another run in the bottom of the second after a Niles sacrifice fly.
Hickey (Umatilla, Fla.) blasted a leadoff homer in the top of the third to cut the deficit to three, 4-1.
AU hung a five-spot in the bottom of the frame, capped off by a three-run shot from Niles.
Pena (1-0) earned the win with four innings of work and allowed one run on five hits.
Freshman Kara Cunningham (Indian Trail, N.C.) (0-1) took the loss after allowing eight hits and five walks. She notched her first collegiate hit in the top of the fifth.
Lees-McRae 1, Anderson (S.C.) 0
The Bobcats (1-1) earned the win with a first inning run while Dutton (Monroe, Ga.) (1-0) twirled a four-hit shutout. The Trojans (1-1) struck out eight times.
Junior Sarah Stallings (Greensboro, N.C.) broke the school record with her 45th career stolen base in top of the first.
She reached on a throwing error to open play before advancing to third on a Cunningham single.
With sophomore Sarah Tucker (Monroe, N.C.) batting, LMC executed a double steal perfectly, with Cunningham swiping second and Stallings stealing home.
Dutton worked around a leadoff walk in the bottom of the second, using a pair of strikeouts and a flyout.
AU threatened in the bottom of the sixth with a leadoff single from Molly Child. Child advanced to third following an error and sacrifice bunt. Dutton buckled down and struck out Pena and got Bivins to flyout.
LMC travels to Carson-Newman Thursday, Feb. 4 for a doubleheader starting at 1:30 p.m. in Jefferson City, Tenn.


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Clive Anthony are pleased to offer for sale this brand new, luxury 2 bedroomed second floor apartment, this apartment is located within Block A and has approximately 1281 sq ft of living accommodation within Hickory Grange being a superb development of just 24 luxury apartments from award winning home builder Urban Heritage Residential.
At Hickory Grange we have thought about how you live your life so you will find contemporary kitchens with stunning finishes by Nobilia that incorporate the very latest in designer appliances and lavish bathroom suites and en-suites by Porcelenosa which await you at the end of a busy day. Two allocated underground car parking spaces, a useful lift and a secure entry intercom system to each apartment complete these fantastic residences.
Designed with you in mind... Selected with great care and attention to detail.
Kitchen :
Contemporary kitchen by Nobilia Germany are a real feast for the eyes and have been designed with functionality in mind, feeling ultra modern, the kitchens incorporate clean lines by using integrated recessed handles. Beautiful cabinet finishes help reflect light along with hardwearing slimline worksurfaces and co-ordinating splashbacks which are paramount to keeping the kitchen looking elegant whilst practical for everyday use.
All kitchens are complemented with Neff appliances on show. A Frankie tap with pull out nozzle and a colour composite sink. Innotive storage solutions keep the space practical, whilst the clever use of lighting helps to bring the kitchen to life.
Additional cabinet lighting, upgraded appliances, Silestone work surfaces, under-mounted sinks and am istantaneous hot water mixer tap.
Bathrooms and En-Suites:
Elegantly designed by Porcelanosa exclusively for Hickory Grange, featuring a stylish contemporary suite comprising bathtub, ceramic basin and concealed cistern w.c with soft close seat, chrome dual flush plate, thermostatically-controlled shower and glass shower screen with solid-surface shower tray and chrome heated towel rail. Exclusive Porcelonsa tiles to wall and floor, incorporating under floor heating.
In the bathroom there will be mirrored storage cabinet with feature lighting, recessed alcove shelving, ceiling mounted monsoon shower and additional Porcelenosa accessories pack.
Ceilings and Joinery:
Dual level finish to ceiling in master bedroom with perimeter lighting feature. Oversized skirting boards and architraves and upgraded solid core internal doors.
A choice of stunning floor finishes in a range of palettes can be selected for all the living areas (excluding bedrooms to allow for personalisation)
Doors and Joinery:
Feature solid core front entrance and internal doors incorporating attractive contemporary brushed steel door furniture.
Low energy LED recessed down lighters are installed into the hall, lounge, kitchen and bathrooms. Pendant drop lights are fitted to the bedrooms to allow for installation of your choice of fitting.
Each apartment to be supplied with plenty of power and multimedia socket outlets all finished in brushed steel. Additionally, telephone sockets, tv/media connection points and video entry intercom system with gate control and security alarm will be provided.
Energy Efficiency and Central Heating:
All apartments are highly insulated and fitted with thermally and acoustically efficient double glazed uPVC windows as standard. Heating and hot water is independently controlled using the latest energy efficient AAA rated, thermostatically controlled gas central heating systems with underfloor heating throughout.
Smart technology controls to heating, lighting, intercom, alarm and entertainment system.
Lobby & Lift Access:
Sophiticated lobby areas provide a fitting entranceway to the apartment, with lift access to all floors.
Common Entrance/Atrium:
Upgraded ceiling mounted feature lighting and additional floor mounted up lighting in stairwell incorporating exclusive contemporary wall art features.
The development will be secured via wrought Iron entry gates with access to each block controlled by video entry intercom to each apartment.
Landscaping, External Areas and Car Parking
Imaginative and feature landscaping to all communal areas incorporating block paving, security feature lighting and demarcated allocated parking spaces ( one space per apartment) An independent and discreet refuse area will be provided.
Service Charge
A service charge will be levied to cover general maintenance costs, facilities, management and building insurance provision.
The location of Hickory Grange is inspirational. Overlooking Whitefield Golf Club, which is one of the most wooded golf courses in the country, the name of the development has evolved from the use of hickory wood in the process of making golf clubs. Co-founded in 1932 by Joseph H Cassel, Whitefield Golf Club is a focal point of this thriving community and its location close to motorway, rail and tram links means access to Hickory Grange is easy. If golf is not your passion then perhaps you will enjoy the varied sights and sounds of Manchester city centre which is just 5 miles away. Designer shopping, award-winning restaurants and some of the finest museums and art galleries in the country are all close at hand. If you prefer to sample more locally sourced produce then there is nowhere quite like Bury Market. This internationally recognised market is a pleasure to the senses and has been established for over 500 years so whatever your shopping desire you are bound to find it here. Hickory Grange is close to breathtaking countryside. The villages of Ramsbottom and Summerseat are perfect bases for exploring the rolling hills of Lancashire or perhaps you will enjoy discovering the treats hidden amongst the Irwell Sculpture Trail, the UK's largest public art scheme that stretches for a full thirty miles! Whatever you want to do and wherever you want to go you can be sure that your home at Hickory Grange is never far away.
People's lifestyles are constantly changing and consequently so are their needs, demands and expectations. We recognise this and have a range of finishes for kitchens and bathrooms to meet those varying requirements. Classical yet forward thinking, combining traditional values with 21st century design, Hickory Grange exudes quality with close attention to detail and a firm commitment to the highest standards. Products and finishes have been individually selected, not simply for excellence but also for their aesthetic qualities, creating a stylish environment that gives Hickory Grange an impressive mix of functionality and style.
Additional Information
We have been advised the property will be leasehold on a 125 year lease with a £250 per annum ground rent. (subject to solicitors confirmation)
The service charge will be approx £200 per month, this covers communal cleaning, communal garden maintenance, lift maintenance, window cleaning and buildings insurance.
Occupation of Block A is anticipated to be December 2018.
2 bed Upper Floor Flat
Hickory Grange off Higher Lane, Whitefield, ManchesterExchanged Listed: Sep 03rd 2018 Arrange a viewing
or call: 0161 773 1111


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Quick and Painless? In our fast and busy lives we are often looking for that 'quick fix' the 'painless solution' – but are they? Does it work? All too often on professional forums and networking groups I hear people asking for quick and painless solutions. Do they really exist in the worlds of business, Human Resources (HR) and Organizational Development (OD)? Just because a solution is quick does not mean it will work in the medium or long term, nor does it necessarily mean it will … [Read more...] about Quick and painless interventions and solutions
PRIMO-F Model for Business Development
PRIMO-F the Business Growth Model Often in organizations we use a SWOT analysis as a way of identifying priorities and areas for improvement. While theSWOT is a wonderfully flexible tool, it is too easy to miss out key elements. We tend to use a SWOT based on our experiences, rather than the actual situational needs. As SWOT analysis is made up of two internal elements (SW) and two external elements (OT) it is helpful to use a structure to give us a guide for what should be … [Read more...] about PRIMO-F Model for Business Development
A skinny video review of the #cipdLDshow 2017 with Martin Couzins & Mike Morrison
The 2017 CIPD Learning and Development show (CIPDLDSHOW) at Olympia started much like many others. Only this time there were significant queues waiting to get in at the start time. Everyone was greeted by probably the happiest being in the building: Yes full blown bag searches and a "meet and greet" by a sniffer dog". Not sure why HR people would be at a risk. No metal detectors - so anyone wanting to .... well lets just leave that there! Over the years more and more people blog and … [Read more...] about A skinny video review of the #cipdLDshow 2017 with Martin Couzins & Mike Morrison
Are you a member of TrainerBase? Are you making it work for you? In this article Mike Morrison describes how he as made it to be number 1 listing in TrainerBase Ok so you have 'signed up' but what is TB and how can you make it work for you? Note – if you are a not yet an enhanced member you will not be getting the most from your subscription! I looked at the options and realised that the membership option for the highest 'price' provided by far the best value… No such thing as a free … [Read more...] about Trainerbase-making-the-most-of-your-membership
Coach training – rewards and challenges.
Mike Morrison, is asked for the rewards and challenges that can be gained from coaching. - Are these the right challenges for you - will you get rewards that will motivate and engage you? What is the difference between the advertised hype and reality in training to be a coach? … [Read more...] about Coach training – rewards and challenges.
Coaching – Defining Coaching
An interview with coach Mike Morrison, managing director of RapidBI … [Read more...] about Coaching – Defining Coaching
Mike Morrison consultant coach
Mike Morrison - Trainer, Business Adviser, Consultant and Coach Mike Morrison is an established coach, trainer and business adviser. Working within the HRD & OD world for over 20 years Mike Morrison has a proven track record of providing pragmatic business solutions. As a coach Mike has worked with a range of high performers from the worlds of: Media Sport Motor Racing Business As a trainer Mike has designed and delivered training from graduates to CEO's & MD's. … [Read more...] about Mike Morrison consultant coach
coaching videos
Coaching Videos In the summer of 2007, RapidBI director and coach Mike Morrison was approached by Coaching-UK to make some short videos on Coaching and Mentoring. There were more recorded, however these were lost when the website hosting them went off line. When we find them we will add them. We hope you find these of value: Intro to Coaching Director of RapidBI Ltd, Mike Morrison talks about getting started in coaching and what it takes to be successful. Defining … [Read more...] about coaching videos
Mike Morrison Profile Mike Morrison is an established coach, trainer and business advisor. * Developing Trainers & Coaches * Presentation & Influencing skills * Developing Manager & Leader Performance Introduction Mike Morrison has over 9 years experience designing and delivering training programmes for clients. Before founding RapidBI, Mike worked as a Business Adviser, working with 100's of companies and before that was Training Manager for a large private … [Read more...] about trainerbase


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This weekend will bring us a double dose of Curry Twos as we'll the see Curry Two Low Chef hit retailers alongside this new Black Knight version.
The Under Armour Curry Two Black Knight features a black upper with contrasting hits of yellow on the branding, laces, and outsole. If you look closely you can also see that the black upper comes with a crackle design and the outsole features a marbled look. A nice finishing touch is a graphic of a spotlight that appears over The Bay on the inside of the tongue. The Curry Two Black Knight is inspired by the average person who rises up and becomes brave enough to do what's necessary to protect the city and community they are representing. Stephen is always ready to answer the call for his teammates and Dub Nation fans.
Releasing on June 11th for $130, will you be picking up this Curry Two at select UA retailers? If the Warriors complete the sweep this week you can bet that this colorway will sell out almost instantly.
via: Under Armour
Author's Take
One of my favorite colorways that has released of the Under Armour Curry Two. I'm a big fan of black and yellow sneakers and this one was executed very nicely.


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Lets get a little personal. This page is so you can get to know me. My name is Andrea. I'm 29 years old. I'm married, and I have two children. My son Hayden is 10, and my daughter Lillie is 6. Currently we reside in Astoria, Oregon, where my husband serves in the US Coast Guard and I work at the Home Depot.
I enjoy crafts. Quilting, painting, and scrap booking are among my favorites. I'm also a part-time gamer. I'm not big into being social but I do like to get up and go, and would road trip often if I had somewhere to go :P. I hope to travel more as my children get older. I recently finished my two year degree, and have a pretty little paper that says Associates of the Arts in Information Technology/Visual Communications
For the most part I am an honest person who doesn't care for gossip too much. Life has handed me my fair amount of ups and downs, and sometimes I get stuck on them for a bit, but I do try to get over them quickly and learn what I can from them. I'm a bit of a realist, and try not to dwell on things I cannot change. I do get frusterated though when it seems the cards are stacked against me.
Im not a supermodel, nor am I all too girly. I don't care for pink, I dispise make up, and honestly I'm a terrible homemaker, though I do try my best. I have my imperfections, but hope others can see past them, as I will always do the same for them. This site is a place to talk about a game that I think I've become pretty familiar with, though I will never EVER claim to be a pro.
In closing, Im all around pretty average, but I hope there is enough unique about me to keep people reading. So until we meet again!


text: The Mozilla Foundation on Tuesday announced that smartphones running its Firefox OS will be available to developers in February. The preview phones are being produced in collaboration with Geeksphone and Telefonica. The idea is to entice devs to create apps for the Firefox OS. "These devices have not been designed for consumers," said Mozilla spokesperson Diane Zuniga. They run pre-release development versions of Firefox OS. The official launch of the OS is expected to take place later this year.


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As it is common knowledge, erectile dysfunction is a frequent though embarrassing condition. Many men feel ashamed of admitting they suffer from it. This inability to erect and perform when they need makes them feel humiliated and, as a consequence, their self-esteem is also affected. Due to these reasons, many guys decide to try medicines to solve this issue as soon as possible. However, these drugs do not deliver the expected results and can even cause unpleasant side effects. If this is your case, the ED Freedom program will be really handy for you!
Low testosterone levels cause erectile dysfunction. Even though this is true, treating this condition only with testosterone creams and supplements will not lead to a full and definite cure. By following this new and amazing program, you will be provided with all the information, the causes and the different types of treatments that will allow you to put an end to erectile dysfunction in a natural and safe way. Besides, the solution it offers is a permanent and full one. A hundred percent cure is guaranteed. This means you will be able to enjoy of that long-lasting erection you have always dreamed of!
ED Freedom Product Details
The program was created by Bill Crane. He developed it based on his own personal experience. The guidebook is simple, easy to follow and understand. It comprises a set of videos and images that will be a great aid for you to know how to proceed and what you have to do exactly in order to fully reverse this annoying condition.
Throughout the guidebook's pages, Bill will teach you everything related to the symptoms, the history and both the psychological and physical factors involved in erectile dysfunction. He will also provide you with a list that includes all the types of proteins, amino acids and enzymes you will have to include in your diet plan in order to boost your blood flow and relax the blood vessels located in your penis at the same time. By following the tips, strategies and recommendations included in this e-book, you will not only put an end to erectile dysfunction but your self confidence, sex drive and cravings will also be greatly benefited.
As it offers a hundred percent natural cure, it is aimed for all men despite their health issues and age. The dangerous and negative effects produced by drugs will be completely avoided. It is a safe method. You will feel completely secure.
Apart from the varied list of dietary supplements and nourishing foods aimed to improve your erectile dysfunction and make you crave for more sex, you will also be entitled to a workout routine that will help you to get a healthy as well as strong body. You will learn how to take full benefit of these foods and supplements.
Nowadays there are many similar programs available in the market but none of them will come up with a permanent solution to erectile dysfunction. Besides, all of them involve the use of expensive drugs that can be really harmful for your overall health.
By sticking to the program, you will learn a lot of interesting information about erectile dysfunction. You will also have access to a proper nutrition plan and will be provided with detailed tips, instructions and tricks on how to get and maintain a hard and long erection with no need to recur to unsafe drugs or steroids. Besides, optimum results are guaranteed. Putting an end to this frustrating condition forever is now a reality!
- The program is a hundred percent natural. This means it is completely safe for you and you can put it into practice from the comfort of your home, There are no severe or harmful side effects associated with it since you do not need to take chemical drugs.
- It is based on scientific evidence. There are no risks for you. The results you will obtain will be fast and long term ones and, moreover, you will start to experience them in a 48 hours timeframe. In fact, it has already been tried by hundreds of men who testify that its effectiveness is proven.
- Compared to other similar programs, it is quite affordable since you will only have to buy certain specific foods to start including in your daily meals. These foods will really help to improve the blood flow in your vessels, what will result in a better erection.
- Once you purchase the guidebook, you will also be granted access to a set of interesting bonus materials that will be greatly enjoyed by the buyer.
- The guidelines and instructions included in the e-book are simple to follow and understand. That is why it is aimed to any kind of men despite their age.
- The program offers a permanent solution to erectile dysfunction. By committing to it, you will be able to recover your sexual life as well as your self esteem.
- If you have any type of questions or doubts, a customer support service will be ready to assist you via e-mail or messages sent through the official website.
- In case you are not satisfied with the results obtained after a sixty day timeframe, the author offers a money back guarantee so there are no financial risks involved for you. You will only have to ask for a refund and your money will be returned.
- The program is only available in digital format. There is no hard copy. You will need an internet connection to download it.
- The program is effective and reliable. However, it does not offer a magical fix. Effort and commitment from the users' side are essential to accomplish the expected results since they will have to read the guidelines, follow the steps suggested and they will have to be willing to make slight changes in their diet schemes to achieve the expected results.
In Conclusion
If erectile dysfunction is making you feel ashamed and has already affected your relationship with women, the ED Freedom program is here to help you solve this problem permanently! Creams and drugs will only provide you with a short-term solution and you will need to spend a lot of money. With this amazing program, you will not have to recur to medicines. Therefore, you will not need to make a great investment or worry about the unpleasant negative effects chemical drugs can have. The method detailed in this guidebook will provide you with the key to treat the root cause of erectile dysfunction by allowing you to completely reverse it while still improving your overall physical and psychological health. So if you are willing to commit and stick to the recommendations and instructions included in this guidebook, do not give it a second thought and download the program right now! Success is guaranteed! Do not let erectile dysfunction alter and control your sex life anymore!
Download ED Freedom Now! It's 100% risk-free for 60 Days! Click the button below:


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Partnering with the agricultural industry
Based in Paarl near Cape Town, NexusAG (Pty) Ltd provides comprehensive crop care services and distributes agrochemicals to the farming community in the Western Cape, Northern and Eastern Cape, and beyond. We also offer guidance and information to growers.
Our expertise is underpinned by more than 10 years of experience in the agricultural industry, and our services are delivered through a network of more than 50 well-trained field specialists, who are also AVCASA-certified agronomists. Through our agronomists and field specialists, we partner with farmers, growers and role players in the agricultural industry to provide professional advice and high-quality products.
Our expertise and experience have been acquired over more than ten years in the agricultural industry as we started out as BayAgro WP in 2000 and established NexusAG (Pty) Ltd in 2002. Today, we are the partner of choice in the local agricultural industry. Our footprint Our services and products are delivered through a network of well-trained field specialists who are also AVCASA-certified agronomists. Although they mainly work in the Western Cape, they serve an area that stretches from Augrabies and Upington in the north to the Gamtoos and Sondags River in the east.
From our head office in Paarl, we provide logistical, financial, procurement and technical services to our field specialists, in cooperation with the various suppliers.
Our field depots, which are conveniently located in all the major agricultural centres, stock our full range of crop protection and nutritional products applicable to major crops – including pome and stone fruit, citrus, grapes, wheat and vegetables.
- Full crop care services: We offer full crop care services for all the major crops. We have field depots in all the major agricultural centres with a full range of products distributed and serviced by well-trained AVCASA-certified agronomists who specialise in the various crops throughout our service area.
- Distributing agrochemicals: We provide our clients with easy access to all the crop protection and plant nutritional products you require – such as fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, fertilisers, plant growth requlators, adjuvants, soil enhancers and other commodities. This access is made possible by our field specialists and network of field depots stocking our full range of products. All our products are supported by professional advice from our field specialists. Our suppliers include industry-leading local and international companies.
- Guidelines to growers: We provide growers with information on our products and the usage of these products.
Our approach to business
NexusAG follows a triple bottom line approach to business by taking profit, people and the planet into account in the way we conduct our business. We subscribe to sound agricultural practices and we protect our clients and the environment through the responsible recommendation of agrochemicals. We adhere to industry regulations and we regularly upskill our field specialists and agronomists through training and other inventions.
Our vision NexusAG strives to be the top distributor of crop protection and plant nutritional products in the Western, Northern and Eastern Cape, adding value to the business of our customers. Our mission statement NexusAG strives to be an agricultural partner to growers, providing crop care solutions through excellence in service and value added to our customers. We subscribe to sound agricultural practices and the protection of the consumer and the environment through the responsible recommendation of products.
As a responsible corporate citizen, we engage with all our stakeholders and take into account the social and natural environment in which we operate. We adhere to Good Agricultural Practices and our agronomists are certified by AVCASA (Association of Veterinary and Crop Associations of South Africa), a Section 21 company representing companies involved in the crop protection and animal health products industry in South Africa.
We believe in the transformational power of empowering people through various partnership schemes and skills transfer initiatives. NexusAG continues to work towards compliance with BEE standards. Download certificate
Click here for Head office details.
Field specialists
Click here for Field Advisors.


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Whether your refurbishment is a single office or a multiple office block we offer a comprehensive and professional service backed by our own experienced fit out teams, who are used to operating to tight time-scales and are able to work alongside your day to day business.
Whether you have existing offices that need redeveloping, or a new space to convert, you need to be confident that every aspect of your office refurbishment will receive the same expert attention to the highest standard and at the most competitive cost.
We take on every aspect of the fit out including all strip out and demolition works the installation of partitioning, suspended ceilings, dry lining, electrics, plumbing, kitchens, toilet facilities, partition walls, all building works, carpentry and full decoration services.
Your refurbishment project will be completed as quickly as possible, to the highest standards and with the minimum of disruption to your day to day business. If required we can carry out the works in phases, behind hoarding or through out-of-hours working.
If you would like more information on Office Refurbishment Services please click here to Contact Us.


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December 19th, 2019 2nd Period: 8:30-9:45 3rd Period: 9:55-11:10 Lunch: 11:10-11:50 5th Period: 11:55-1:10 7th Period: 1:15-2:30 December 20th, 2019 1st Period: 8:30-9:50 4th Period: 10:00-11:20 Lunch...Read MoreFall 2019 Semester Test Schedule
Check out the wonderful article in the Raised in the West Fall 2019 magazine (page 12) featuring the Sweet Grass County's "Beef to School" program. The magazine is available in the school library....Read More"Where's the Beef? Sweet Grass County brings beef to school "
...Read MoreRegular Board Meeting on Tuesday, 11/12/19 at 6:00 PM
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING April 9, 2019 6:00 PM SGHS Library AGENDA Call the meeting to order Public Comment Approval of last month's minutes Stud...Read MoreSGCHS Board of Trustees Regular April Meeting
The high school will be running Tuesday-Game Day schedule on Thursday, February 28th. Buses will run at the normal time. Students who plan to attend the tournament, but are not traveling with the Pe...Read MoreDivisional Tournament
Your child's school has been chosen to take part in a cavity-prevention program, sponsored by Big Timber Family Dental. It is part of a statewide effort to improve the oral health of children. As you ...Read MoreDental Program at schools
...Read MoreTeen Day
Be sure to check the Employment tab on this site for employment opportunities offered by Sweet Grass County High School district. ...Read MoreEmployment opportunities
Classified and Certified NegotiationsMarch 28, 2018 Library 4:00 pm Certified 5:30 pm Classified...Read MoreClassified and Certified Negotiations
March 23, 20185:00 PMSG County Ambulance Barn 1. Call to order2. Public Comment3. Agenda Items: Consideration of Execution of Legal Retainer Agreement with Attorneys of Montana School Boards Associati...Read MoreBoard of Trustees Special Meeting
We are entering the time of year when we see influenza (flu) and other respiratory viruses at school. We want to let you know what steps we are taking to keep our school community healthy and how you ...Read MoreUpdate from the School Nurse
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING February 13, 2018 6:00 PM SGHS Library AGENDA 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Public Forum 3. Student Council 4. SGCEA 5. Department Report - Social Studies 6. Principal/AD Report...Read MoreBoard of Trustees Meeting
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING January 9, 2018 6:00 PM SGHS Library AGENDA 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Public Forum 3. Student Council 4. SGCEA 5. Department report – Music 6. Principal Report 7. Superinten...Read MoreBoard of Trustees Meeting
Sweet Grass County High School ticket prices for the winter season events will continue to be: Adults: $6.00Students (1-12 grades): $4.00Senior Citizens: $2.00 SGHS has reviewed it ticket prices to ad...Read MoreSGHS Basketball Games at Civic Center Will Have Admission Fee
School Improvement Planning Committees November 29, 2017 2:30 PM SGCHS Agenda: 1. Short meeting in FCS room before committee meetings 2. Individual Committee meetings for a. Management/Safety – ...Read MoreSIP Committee meetings
School Improvement Planning Committees October 25, 2017 2:30 PM SGCHS Agenda: 1. Individual Committee meetings for a. Management/Safety – Tech room b. Instruction/Assessment – Library ...Read MoreSchool Improvement Committees meeting
SGHS Open House, Thursday, Sept. 7, 6:30 – 7:30 PM Sweet Grass County High School will host an open house for parents and the community Thursday, September 7th beginning at 6:30 PM. This is an opportu...Read MoreOpen House 2017
U.S. News and World Report rated Sweet Grass County High School among top 5 high schools in Montana this last April. The publication annually ranks schools throughout the nation based on how their stu...Read MoreSGCHS Receives Top Rating
Girls and boys golf teams place 3rd at Divisional's. They are off to state! Way to go Herders!!! ...Read MoreDivisional Golf 2017
As we approach February we are seeing our usual colds, winter allergies, and other illness that are common for this time of year. We are seeing a few students who have tested positive for influenza "f...Read MoreFlu on the Rise
Weather Impacts on SGCHS Over the last week the snow and wind created havoc with the Sweet Grass County High School daily schedule of classes and events. SGHCS did not have school on Friday, December ...Read MoreWeather Causes Changes in Schedules
January 13, 2017 8:30 - 10:00: 1st Period10:05 - 11:35: 4th Period 11:35 - 12:10: Lunch12:15 - 1:45: 2nd Period1:50 - 3:20: 3rd Period January 14, 2017 8:30 - 10:00: 6th Period10:05 - 11:35: 5th ...Read MoreFall Semester Test Schedule
5 Montana School Districts Make Advanced Placement Honor Roll HELENA, Mont. – Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau announced today that five Montana school districts are among 433 distri...Read MoreSGCHS Receives National Recognition for AP Results
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING November 8, 2016 6:00 PM SGHS Library AGENDA 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Public Forum 3. Student Council/Student Representative 4. SGCEA 5. Department report – Art 6. Principa...Read MoreBoard Meeting
The basketball game in Whitehall has been moved from December 20th to December 19th to accommodate the elementary Christmas Program....Read MoreBasketball Schedule Change
Montana College Application Week October 31-November 4, 2016 Our school is participating in Montana's statewide College Application Week! Our goal is to provide every graduating high school senior wit...Read MoreCollege Application Week
AGENDA October 11, 2016 6:00 PM SGHS Library 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Public Forum 3. Student Council/ Student Rep report 4. SGCEA 5. Department report - Ag 6. Principal Report 7. Superintenden...Read MoreSchool Board Meeting
Our website host, Prime Inc., recently underwent a server crash and our website was down. It is up and running, but many of our updates for the month of September were lost. We are working on gettin...Read MoreWebsite Outage
Please come out and support the Herders during homecoming week, the volleyball game will be Thursday night starting at 4:00 and the football kicks off at 7:00....Read MoreSGHS Activities are underway
Home sporting events will be broadcast this year. Go to nfhsnetwork.com and type in "Sweet Grass County High School". There is a fee for watching the sporting events.Enjoy!...Read MoreSporting Events
Gusts would like all seniors to bring a senior picture in to be displayed in the window....Read MoreSeniors
Sweet Grass County High School District has been the recipient of several donations in the last few weeks. SGCHS and BTGS were gifted with a check of $5000 from the estate of Ralph M. Holman. The dist...Read MoreSGCHS Receives Gifts From Holman and Curtain
Message from the Superintendent Re: SGHS and Montana Curriculum Standards: HISTORY, NOW, CONTROVERSY, ASK I have been following and been involved in the discussion and concern that surrounds recent wo...Read MoreSuperintendents Message -Common Core


text: This beautiful unit is located in the Northampton Place Condominiums right off 395 and King St. It is a spacious corner unit, with a great view off the balcony. Other amenities include: gleaming hardwood floors, granite counters and updated bathroom. Northampton Place is a high rise with 16 stories, 275 units and wonderful amenities: 24 hr concierge, fitness room, community room and much more. The building is also pet friendly and there is an Express Metro Bus stop & DASH (AT6) stops near by. Since September 2013, the average sold price of a 2 bedroom/2 bath unit in this building was $360K, with days on market ranging from 7 to 90+. Contact us today for more details!


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If you send out invoices from a large or small business, or even if you're just sending out your own invoices as a part-time contractor or consultant, you probably don't much like the software you use to prepare your invoices and estimates. With the free version of the brilliantly simple FreshBooks (formerly 2ndSite) online service, you can create invoices and estimates right in your browser and the service will deliver an e-mail with a link to the document on the FreshBooks site. If you choose one of the fee-based plans, you can have the service send printed copies via U.S. Postal Service—no more envelope licking. The paper invoices even go out with return envelopes that have your address preprinted, making it slightly easier for your clients to pay you.
Read the full review: FreshBooks


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I want to announce the availability of the next beta release of TimerTracker for Mac. Version 1.3.5 has the following modifications:
- IMPORTANT! requires Mac OS 10.5 or higher
- fixed issue 44 where CSV export did not include seconds.
- fixed issue 45 bring back drag and drop support for projects and tasks
- fixed issue 28 added support to close the main window and leave TimeTracker running
- fixed issue 49 Text filtering broken when used in conjunction with smart filters
- fixed issue 47 filterbox sometimes appears partially out of view
- now when loading data (importing from old versions) TT makes sure that task names are not duplicated within a project
I have not marked it as public as I first want to see how "daring people" fare with this. So let me know if you have problems.
You can either grab it via the updater or from here http://time-tracker-mac.googlecode.com/files/Time%20Tracker-1.3.5.zip


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CAP Wing Conference 2016
The Shorty Powers Composite Squadron was fairly well represented at the Illinois Wing 2016 Conference this past weekend at the NIU Conference Center in Naperville, with 12 seniors and 7 cadets including the opening and closing flag ceremonies hosted by our cadet color guard.
During the opening session, Shorty Powers Composite Squadron received a Cadet Quality Unit award and 3 awards for last years CyberPatriot teams.
There were over 50 breakout sessions for all members, including a special track just for cadets. Lt Col Bartel assisted in the Communication session/annual meeting where they presented and discussed the various components of communication currently in use, or soon to be in use, by CAP.Capt Danley presented two sessions, one on Illinois Wing email usage and one on an Aerial Photography (AP) refresher course. Tim Markham contributed to the model airplane exhibit for the model airplane competition.
The evening banquet conference speakers included IL Wing Spaatz (former) cadets: USAF Colonel Mary K. Higgins #131, and Dr. Faith Vilas #132. Dr. Vilas is also the granddaughter of the first Civil Air Patrol Illinois Wing Commander, Lt Col Logan Archbold 'Jack' Vilas.


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EHR Incentive Funds Registration Launches in 11 States
Registration began a little more than two weeks ago for hospitals and medical providers in 11 states to qualify to land some $20 billion in stimulus funds, available under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 (ARRA), for adopting and implementing electronic health record (EHR) technology.
States opening registration on January 3, 2011 include Alaska, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. A second group, which includes California, Missouri, and North Dakota, will begin registration in February, 2011 with additional states beginning later in the spring and summer. By the end of the summer, all states will have been permitted to register.
Under the Health and Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH), Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments will be granted to eligible providers that meet the EHR "meaningful use" requirements by certain deadlines.
Registering hospitals and medical professionals must attest in a 90-day reporting period to meaningful use of the technology to receive incentive funds as early as May, 2011. In some cases, early reporting could yield incentive funds to qualified applicants by later this month or next.
The Healthcare Group at Computer Science Corp. (CSC), a Falls Church, VA provider of IT solutions and services that earlier this year launched an online community related to meaningful use which currently lists some 1,300 members, including 200 hospitals, recently observed some trends in EHR implementation and meaningful use documentation.
Accordingly, David Lewis, a CSC principal, offered a list of the top 10 reasons why EHR implementations are succeeding, based on the company's experience with clients. Lewis posted the list online at CSC's meaningful use community.
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Eight more days until my due date. Eight. More. Days.
My heart is nearly bursting with joy as I anticipate holding my second born child in my arms, looking into those precious eyes, touching those tiny feet and hands, caressing the silky soft hairs on his head, marveling at every little feature on his red, puffy and oh-so-adorable newborn face, breathing in the smell of freshly washed baby, and listening to that sweet sound of a nursing infant. Again and again, the Bible affirms that children are a blessing from the Lord. Again and again, my son Shepherd has proven that to be true. I know without any doubt that Landon Joseph Sweers will do the same.
This picture of Shepherd and me is one of my most precious treasures. I have a hard time seeing a whole lot of beauty in pictures of myself, but this picture is different. I have never looked or felt more beautiful in my whole life than in that moment as I held my first born son and pondered the magnitude of his life and the sheer goodness of the God who ordained every second of it before one of them came to be. This picture reflects so many of the hopes, dreams, and expectations I had of that sweet child and of motherhood in general. While it captures but one single moment in time, it continues to tell the story of a young woman who fell madly in love with a seven pound, fourteen ounce little boy who forever changed her life for the better. Way better. To think that I get to experience that all over again in just a matter of days – it nearly takes my breath away.
There is, however, one thing weighing heavily on this joy-filled heart of mine – one thing that has made this pregnancy very different from my first. This time around I know something about motherhood that I didn't quite grasp the first time: I know it's going to be really, really hard.
The young woman in that picture honestly didn't have a clue. She had read and re-read Babywise, Secrets of the Baby Whisperer, Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, and Shepherding a Child's Heart (to name a few!). She was convinced she'd have her baby on a perfect "feed-wake-sleep" schedule and would be sleeping through the night in a matter of weeks. She wholeheartedly believed that breastfeeding would be the easiest, most natural, rewarding experience of her life. She envisioned happily rocking her always-smiling baby multiple times a day while singing her favorite hymns and reading Scripture – the perfect little "mommy and me" worship service! She would, of course, always have make-up on, be dressed in real clothes (i.e., pants that have a zipper and aren't made of flannel), and exude the well-rested radiance of a successful "Babywise" mom.
HA! To say none of that happened would be a severe understatement.
Yep, clueless . . . utterly clueless. But not this time . . .
This time I know how brutal the sleep deprivation will be.
This time I know
that however willing my husband is to help in the wee hours of the morning, I am the only one with "working" breasts.
This time I know that even if I could be the "perfect" Babywise mom, it's highly unlikely that I will ever have a "perfect" Babywise baby.
This time I know that that postpartum depression is a life-altering reality, that it affects somewhere around 15% of women who have babies, and that I happen to be one of them.
This time I know the strain caring for an infant will have on my marriage, the loneliness/isolation (both real and perceived) I will experience, and the enhanced body image issues I will deal with.
This time I know about the financial stress coming our way, the challenge of making sure my four-year-old doesn't feel lost in the chaos, and the paralyzing effects of trying and often failing to manage an overwhelming list of day-to-day demands (to be completed in the VERY short time between feedings).
This time I know the sting of having to say "no" again and again to opportunities to stand on a platform and teach the Bible as I try to convince myself that the ministry I do inside my home is far more important and rewarding. (I really do believe that, but sometimes having to push the "pause" button on my passion is just plain agonizing.)
Yes, this time I know that sometimes "better" – even way better – is also way "harder." Sometimes great blessings demand great sacrifices. Sometimes the sweetest fountains of joy are mixed with bitter providence. Sometimes the most tangible expressions of God's goodness make us painfully aware of our desperate need for His grace. Sometimes the most priceless gifts come to us in really complicated packages.
So what do we do when we know that "way better" is also going to be "way harder?" What do we do when the immense joy we feel is threatened by the things we fear? What do we do when the beauty of the blessing starts to get hidden behind the reality of the cost?
We saturate ourselves in truth from God's Word until we are fully convinced that no matter how hard "harder" might get, God's grace is indeed sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9). . .that His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9) . . .that our times – even the hard times – are in His hands (Ps. 31:15). . .that in Christ, we are more than conquerors (Rom. 8:37) . . . that He who did not spare His own Son will most certainly provide for every single need (Rom. 8:32). . .that we can cast every care on Him because He really, truly does care for us (1 Peter 5:7). . . that because Jesus is enough, so are we (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 John 2:2) . [Insert a thousand other promises here!]
We have to TRUST that we will eventually look back and see the words "WORTH IT" written across every single sacrifice – every stretch mark, every stressful feeding, every sleepless night, every emotional tidal wave, every diaper change, every frustrating attempt at potty training, every date night that never happened, every mess, every doctor visit, every forfeited ministry opportunity, every financial sacrifice, and every hour spent watching kid shows.
All of it . . . absolutely, totally, completely WORTH IT!
Why? Because all of it . . . every single ounce of "hard" . . . . is sovereignly fashioned by God to draw us closer to Himself.
I know I'm not the only one who is on the verge of a better but harder season of life, deeply thankful for what God has so lavishly provided but also very much aware – and sometimes afraid – of what it's going to cost. It doesn't have to be motherhood. It could be a new job, a move, a relationship, a new ministry endeavor, or a whole slew of other changes. Whatever "hard" we might face, we can do what comes so naturally to most of us and choose to dwell on the price tag. Or, we can choose to focus on the gift.
Better yet, we can fix our eyes on the Giver – the all-sufficient, all-wise, all-powerful, sovereign, gracious, loving, sustaining, merciful . . . Giver. We can wholeheartedly trust that the words of Deuteronomy 31:8 are as true for us as they were for Joshua and the Israelites as they faced a promising yet challenging future: "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
This time I know things I didn't know before. I know that my life is about to get way better. I also know that it is also about to get way harder. But more than anything, I know that my God is about to prove Himself to be way stronger.
Stronger than every sleepless night. Stronger than every crushing wave of sadness. Stronger than every lonely day. Stronger than every guilt-inducing failure. Stronger than every "I'm just not cut out for this" moment.
The young woman in that picture was clueless, but thankfully she didn't stay that way. She still doesn't feel like she knows a whole lot about motherhood. She does, however, know one thing very, very well: Through the highest highs and lowest lows, her God has been and will forever be perfectly faithful.
It is upon that glorious truth that she hereby chooses to rest her anxious, almost-a-mom-of-two heart.


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E. H. AHRENS Jr., M.D.
The premise that measures used to lower the plasma lipids in patients with hyperlipidemia will lead to reductions in new events of coronary heart disease (the Lipid Hypothesis) should be reconsidered today as a result of several recent reports of large-scale double-blind drug trials in the United Kingdom and in the United States. To that end, the published evidence that bears on tests of the hypothesis by dietary and drug interventions is reviewed, and the conclusion reached that the hypothesis has not yet been adequately tested. A phased program is described that will prepare the ground for a fuller and more definitive trial of the premise in the future: the first steps must be to establish that a combined diet/drug regimen in large numbers of adult male hyperlipidemic patients is acceptable and essentially harmless and that during an observation period of several years a high rate of adherence to the regimen can be attained. Any advice to the general public to make large dietary changes now is considered premature.
AHRENS EH. Drugs Spotlight Program: The Management of Hyperlipidemia: Whether, Rather than How. Ann Intern Med. 1976;85:87–93. doi: https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-85-1-87
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Published: Ann Intern Med. 1976;85(1):87-93.
Cardiology, Coronary Risk Factors, Dyslipidemia.
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Print ISSN: 0003-4819 | Online ISSN: 1539-3704
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Shannon and Paul were such troopers! They insisted on going out for photos last Saturday for lots of fun portraits despite the frigid temps! We were also knee deep in snow but that didn't stop them from smiling and having a great time. We are so happy for you both. Thank you for sharing this day with us.
Venue: Metropolis Ballroom
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Aaron shoots Shannon and Paul's wedding
Labels: Aaron wedding
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