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This final article about hidden MSG (monosodium glutamate) – see Part 1 and Part 2 – begins with an overview of the big picture confronting families.
Those who are committed to exposing hidden MSG, including Dr. Adrienne Samuels of the Truth in Labeling Campaign (TLC), Dr. Katherine Reid of Unblind My Mind, Dr. Amy Yasko, and Dr. Russell Blaylock, all warn that MSG is toxic.13
There is plenty of current, readily–available research demonstrating MSG's toxicity. It's beyond the scope of this article to review all of the evidence, and the tactics used by industry to hide it; please read Dr. Adrienne Samuels' peer-reviewed Toxicity/Safety of Processed Free Glutamic Acid (MSG): A Study of Suppression of Information and her more recent findings. (Instead of 'processed free glutamic acid,' I'll use the term 'MSG' since it's the term we consumers recognize.)
Compounding the difficulty is a lax regulatory system–including the USDA's National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)–full of giant MSG loopholes favorable to industry.
Food labels serve more to obscure than to reveal. Labels replace the consumer-feared term 'MSG' with 40+ ingredient names, to purposefully camouflage MSG. They are also devoid of the total amount of MSG exposure per serving. Food chemists keep pumping out new hidden MSG ingredients with newfangled names we won't recognize. In the process, manufacturers ignore federal labeling regulations. For example, a label will illegally advertise "No MSG" or "No Added MSG," when the ingredient list contains hydrolyzed protein or other ingredients containing MSG. Similarly, companies label MSG-containing ingredients as 'organic' (e.g., whey protein concentrate) when they are not!
What's the latest labeling trend? "Clean labels," food labels that are expertly scrubbed of pesky ingredient names which might alarm a consumer into not buying that product! MSG is one of the synthetic chemicals subjected to this stealthy, industry whitewashing, with food processors paying specialized corporations to "sanitize" their labels. In fact, the chemical industry itself has now abandoned the term 'MSG' when marketing this synthetic chemical to Big Food and Big Organic food processors, substituting the "clean label" terms 'savory ingredient' or 'umami.' 14 As far as labels go, MSG is a thing of the past.
Industry is selling cheaply-produced foodstuffs, made 'savory' with this cheap-to-produce chemical. According to some physicians and lots of research, MSG creates cravings and addiction, which generates still more industry sales and profit.
What's most egregious? We consumers are being duped into paying top dollar for
MSG-laden organic foods, dressed up in those brightly-colored, seductive clean labels! The term 'organic,' like 'natural,' is well on its way to becoming a meaningless descriptor, nothing more than a sales pitch, by which toxic chemicals like MSG stay hidden.
So we have fake labels, suppressed research, regulatory agencies turning a blind eye, and a food industry given free rein in keeping MSG hidden. Consumer estimates place MSG in 95 percent of processed foods, including organics! It's also in things like shampoos, conditioners, toothpastes …and MSG has even been found in "growth-enhancing" pesticides that are sprayed on foods! For a family needing to avoid MSG, the scope of the problem is enormous.
Did you have any idea that there was so much MSG hidden in so many things your family eats or uses every single day? And that there are no effective consumer protections?
With nothing to stop it, the food industry will continue to use MSG in our food supply and pay its glutamate trade organizations to lobby to continue keeping it hidden.
Given the amount of MSG purchased in the U.S. (in 2007, 209,437,000 pounds — almost ¾ lb. of MSG for every U.S. citizen! – was sold by just the Ajinomoto® Co., Inc., MSG's parent company and patent holder), the payoff for the food industry must be truly enormous.
For many families the results can be truly devastating. Please read family stories here, here, here, here, here, here and here. By sharing our stories, we families are creating help, hope, and cold, hard anecdotal data.
"I Don't React to MSG in My Food, Why Should I Pay Attention?"
You may be thinking, "I don't react to MSG, this doesn't concern me."
However, there is new information to consider.
I sat bolt upright when I came upon this research: Dr. Blaylock (and many, many others) state that the excitotoxic effects of MSG are immediate in some people, but in most people the effects go unnoticed. In all, however, the effects may be cumulative and it may take decades for those cumulative effects to manifest! 15
Dr. Blaylock's urgent recommendation in his 1994 book, Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills, is to avoid excitotoxin (e.g., glutamic acid, aspartic acid, L-cysteine) exposure from your foods.
Twelve years later, in this 2006 interview with Mike Adams at Natural News, Dr. Blaylock, who is a neurosurgeon, cited the explosion in neurodegenerative diseases and reiterated the connection between food and MSG:
So, we are all exposed to those toxins [mercury, aluminum, pesticides and herbicides], and then when you add MSG and excitotoxins to the food, you tremendously accelerate this toxicity. That's why we're seeing this explosion in neurodegenerative diseases; Alzheimer's and autism and ADD and Parkinson's… 16
Dr. Amy Yasko maintains a nationally-known practice treating autism and other neurological conditions; one of her recommendations is to remove MSG from the diet. Biochemist Dr. Katherine Reid removed MSG and glutamate from her family's diet, and her daughter's autism symptoms subsided.
Truth in Labeling Campaign's (TLC) Dr. Adrienne Samuels' compelling 2013 book, It Wasn't Alzheimer's. It Was MSG, shares details of her late husband, Jack, and his lifelong struggle with –and activism against—hidden MSG. The book title speaks for itself.
Notably, TLC publicized one of the first and most comprehensive, researched and updated lists of food ingredients containing hidden MSG, helping thousands of families.
Dr. Samuels, Dr. Reid, Dr. Yasko and Dr. Blaylock all warn us to avoid foods (and body-care products) that contain MSG. I urge you to rigorously study the sources referenced, form your own opinion, and consider a talk with your family doctor about hidden MSG in your food.
Vegetarians & Vegans: Cook From Scratch!
Many protein sources that vegetarians and vegans rely upon are chemically-processed. Worse, they likely contain multiple sources of MSG.
Some common ingredients that always contain MSG and are regularly used in processed, plant-based protein products are: yeast extract (i.e., autolyzed yeast); torula yeast; hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP); textured vegetable protein (TVP); soy protein, concentrate or isolate; and these dairy sources: whey protein, concentrate or isolate; sodium or calcium caseinate.
Yeast extract processing creates:
…a concentrated paste high in glutamic acid. This may be left in the form of a paste or dried and used as a powdered food additive. At this point, there is little difference between the final product and MSG. 17
Consumers have been deprived of the understanding that food processing itself adds to the total amount of MSG in food; in other words, MSG that is "…processed into a product instead of [or in addition to] being poured into a product…" 18 TLC states that, with certain types of industrial processing of proteins, both natural and synthetic forms of glutamate are created, as well as impurities, some of which may be carcinogenic.
HVP is especially toxic as it contains three excitotoxins and at least one troubling impurity.
A double-whammy, vegetarian and vegan processed foods can contain additional ingredients to boost flavor, and alter texture and 'mouthfeel,' and these usually contain hidden MSG. Examples include: natural or organic flavors, spices or seasonings; pectin; annatto; broth and bouillon; modified corn starch; maltodextrin; soy lecithin; malted barley; brown rice syrup; juice; citric acid; gums (e.g., carrageenan, carob or locust bean, gellan, guar, xanthan).
Also containing high amounts of MSG are salty vegetarian condiments, including: tamari and soy sauce (see "acid HVP soy sauce," here); liquid aminos; and some seasoned salts.19
Of all the plant products, soybeans have one of the highest levels of natural glutamate, with wheat gluten and milk casein close behind. Thus, industrial processing will expose the vegetarian or vegan to even higher levels of natural and synthetic glutamate, and its impurities.
The best place to research this issue – and find good alternatives! – is at Mike Adams' Natural News. He follows a largely plant-based diet and reacts badly to MSG. He is factual and scathing when he exposes hidden MSG. I particularly recommend these articles from him:
- The textured vegetable protein experiment: even rabbits won't eat it
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP) recall leaves food consumers wondering: what is this stuff?
- How I got blindsided by yeast extract in Amy's Kitchen Organic Foods (opinion) and Amy's Kitchen Responds to concerns about Yeast Extract with possible product reformulations
- Soy Protein used in "natural" foods bathed in toxic solvent hexane.
Vegetarians and vegans need to scrutinize every processed food ingredient; the alarm level goes up with organic foods because one expects purity, and forgets to verify. 20
Oh, No, My Beloved Nutritional Yeast Has MSG In It?
Many vegetarians and vegans rely upon nutritional yeast ('nooch,' 'vegan cheese'). Here's the lowdown: there is enough unsettling information about nutritional yeast that I have decided to dedicate a future article to covering it. In short, it contains processed free glutamic acid…and you don't have to wait for me to start researching!
MSG Awareness at Honest Weight Food Co-op
I brought my concerns about MSG to HWFC's Nutrition and Education Committee (NEC), knowing it was updating our Food and Product Manual (FPM). The members were very receptive; the Committee made changes to the FPM, which the Membership approved on January 29, 2017. The FPM now includes information about MSG, on pages 6-7.
I am very thankful to Chair Alena Gerli, all the NEC members, and Board Liaison Rebekah Rice for their passion in protecting the Co-op's food supply. This Committee and our Board demonstrated, when they recommended MSG information be added to the FPM, that they place a high priority on the quality of food our Co-op sells.
Education of our shoppers regarding the ever-expanding list of hidden MSG ingredients is critical. I am hopeful we will soon see a kiosk at the Co-op, where shoppers may quickly research all food additives. It is also my hope that our buying policies will change, so that in any one food category (e.g., heavy creams) there will always be at least one product on the shelves which is both organic and MSG-free, so my family can safely purchase what we need at HWFC.
Food Action Steps
Here's the bottom line: you cannot depend upon federal agencies (including the USDA's NOSB) or the food industry, regarding honest and accurate disclosure of MSG in foods. You must be the one to protect your family from hidden MSG.
TLC warns us that health food stores, with their 'natural' and 'organic' foods, are MSG "mine fields." However, our own HWFC is one of the best places to shop when it comes to the possibility of finding local, whole, minimally-processed, nutrient-dense, better-than-organic food choices for your family!
My top recommendations:
- READ LABELS 100% of the time!
- DON'T BUY foods which contain hidden MSG (or unknown ingredients).
- REDUCE or eliminate purchases of packaged and processed foods.
- EAT MORE local, fresh, whole, minimally-processed organic foods.
- REGULARLY UPDATE your own 'hidden MSG' research.
Institute these five habits and you'll go a long way towards removing this synthetic chemical from contact with your family. After a few shopping trips, you'll quickly recognize the ingredients to be avoided, develop alternatives, and begin to really appreciate our regional, small-scale, organic farm families and producers who provide us HWFC families with whole, nutrient-dense food!
In addition, these next steps are now in your hands:
- Print out or phone-archive a 'hidden MSG list' (see Part 2); use every time you shop.
- Shop the perimeter. Cook from scratch.
- 'Hidden MSG list' in-hand: inspect foods in your cupboards and fridge; don't forget pet foods.
- Eating out: exercise extreme caution or avoid.
- Help HWFC maintain high standards:
- Our FPM requires the accurate labeling of foods made at HWFC. If you find a problem in this regard, please alert the appropriate Department Manager.
- If you buy a food that advertises 'No MSG' or 'No Added MSG,' yet its label lists hidden MSG, alert our General Manager (GM). This mis-branding of food products is, according to TLC, illegal. Send it right back up the food chain and force national wholesalers to clean up their food supply.
- Can't locate a product which is both organic and MSG-free (e.g., pasta sauce)? Alert our GM and request that such a (local!) product be found.
- Don't forget to thank HWFC Departments that go out of their way to keep our food local, organic, of the highest quality and effectively labeled.
- Start your own organic vegetable and herb garden!
- Network with HWFC families: form a Hidden MSG Book Group or a Let's Go Better-Than-Organic Group! Connect up, it's a most powerful way to generate solutions.
We can truly support and protect each other as Co-op families that place a high value upon locally-produced, whole, minimally-processed, nutrient-dense, better-than-organic foods which both support regional farm families and truly promote wellness and vitality for our own families.
Any information provided in this article is intended solely and specifically for consumer educational purposes. It is not intended to offer medical advice, nor substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment from your physician.
© Laura Hagen
[13] Additional MSG consumer watchdog groups are listed in Part 2 of this article; for example, Carol Hoernlein, former food process engineer and food scientist of the non-profit MSGTruth, has developed a tremendous archive of scientific articles and graphics.
[14] Sand, Jordan. "A Short History of Good Science, Bad Science, and Taste Cultures." Gastronomica 5(4) (Nov. 2005): 38-49. Print.
The term 'umami' was coined by the Japanese creator of monosodium glutamate, Kikunae Ikeda, who, in 1909, helped found the Ajinomoto® Co., Inc.
According to TLC, the late Jack Samuels (see 19), and this Psychology Today article by Anneli Rufus, Umami: The World's Cleverest Marketing Scheme, 'umami' is not our newly-discovered fifth sense of taste, it is a marketing device. Listen to Terry Gross of Fresh Air, as she targets a vegetarian audience, promoting 'umami' using actual food product names (!) in this clip on NPR's website, 'Test Kitchen': How To Make Vegetarian Dishes Pop With A Little Umami.
On its corporate website, the Ajimomoto® Group appears to be replacing the name of its own patented, ingredient, MSG (sodium glutamate, monosodium glutamate), with 'umami' and 'AJI-NO-MOTO® umami seasoning.' See: The chronicle of the Ajinomoto Group.
[15] See: Dr. Russell Blaylock's, Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills; John and T. Michelle Erb's, The Slow Poisoning of America; Dr. George R. Schwartz's, In Bad Taste: The MSG Symptom Complex; and Deborah Anglesey's Battling the MSG Myth.
[16] Adams, Mike. "The Truth About Aspartame, MSG and Excitotoxins An Interview with Dr. Russell Blaylock." Arizona: Truth Publishing International, Ltd. (2006): 8. Natural News. Web. 01 Apr. 2017. The Truth About Aspartame, MSG and Excitotoxins An Interview with Dr. Russell Blaylock.
[17] Gutierrez, David. "The common ingredient 'yeast extract' is functionally identical to MSG." (27 March 2014). Natural News. Web. 04 April 2017. The common ingredient 'yeast extract' is functionally identical to MSG.
[18]Author unknown. "Recognizing or diagnosing MSG adverse reactions." Truth in Labeling Campaign. Web. 02 Apr. 2017. Recognizing or diagnosing MSG adverse reactions. (Note: understanding 'bound' versus 'free' glutamate is critical: see here.)
[19] MSG has long been utilized by industry as a means to lower the sodium 'nutrition profile' on food labels (more MSG = less salt). A new biotech company, Senomyx®, has developed a bio-engineered 'MSG-Enhancer:' see the late Jack Samuels' New Propaganda About MSG.
[20] For those who cook from scratch, TLC has produced The Real Food Recipeless CookBook: The Secret to Eating without MSG. Debbie Anglesey, who generously donated recipes, also wrote Battling the MSG Myth, A Survival Guide and Cookbook.


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One random factoid that stuck with me from learning about Mendel's cross in 9th grade AP biology was that brown hair was a dominant gene to blonde hair and therefore you can make predictions like two blonde parents must have blonde children, and a parent with homozygous brown haired genes can only have brown haired children. I wondered how many TV and movie casting directors knew that fact and for years I was on the look out for that mistake. Decades passed (literally 2 decades) without thinking about it at all, and then (minor spoiler alert) that little factoid shows up as a major plot point for George R R Martin's Game of Thrones. Apparently I wasn't the only person who thought that about the implications of Mendel on fiction.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
AP Biology and Game of Thrones
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War on Drugs
The War on Drugs is a phrase used to refer to a government-led initiative that aims to stop illegal drug use, distribution and trade by increasing and enforcing penalties for offenders. The movement started in the 1970s and is still evolving today. Over the years, people have had mixed reactions to the campaign, ranging from full-on support to claims that it has racist and political objectives.
The War on Drugs Begins
Drug use for medicinal and recreational purposes has been happening in the United States since the country's inception. In the 1890s, the popular Sears and Roebuck catalogue included an offer for a syringe and small amount of cocaine for $1.50. (At that time, cocaine use had not yet been outlawed.)
In some states, laws to ban or regulate drugs were passed in the 1800s, and the first congressional act to levy taxes on morphine and opium took place in 1890.
The Smoking Opium Exclusion Act in 1909 banned the possession, importation and use of opium for smoking. However, opium could still be used as a medication. This was the first federal law to ban the non-medical use of a substance.
In 1914, Congress passed the Harrison Act, which regulated and taxed the production, importation, and distribution of opiates and cocaine.
Alcohol prohibition laws quickly followed. In 1919, the 18th Amendment was ratified, banning the manufacture, transportation or sale of intoxicating liquors, ushering in the Prohibition Era. The same year, Congress passed the National Prohibition Act (also known as the Volstead Act), which offered guidelines on how to federally enforce Prohibition.
Prohibition lasted until December, 1933, when the 21st Amendment was ratified, overturning the 18th.
Marijuana Tax Act of 1937
In 1937, the "Marihuana Tax Act" was passed. This federal law placed a tax on the sale of cannabis, hemp, or marijuana.
The Act was introduced by Rep. Robert L. Doughton of North Carolina and was drafted by Harry Anslinger. While the law didn't criminalize the possession or use of marijuana, it included hefty penalties if taxes weren't paid, including a fine of up to $2000 and five years in prison.
Controlled Substances Act
President Richard M. Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) into law in 1970. This statute calls for the regulation of certain drugs and substances.
The CSA outlines five "schedules" used to classify drugs based on their medical application and potential for abuse.
Schedule 1 drugs are considered the most dangerous, as they pose a very high risk for addiction with little evidence of medical benefits. Marijuana, LSD, heroin, MDMA (ecstasy) and other drugs are included on the list of Schedule 1 drugs.
The substances considered least likely to be addictive, such as cough medications with small amounts of codeine, fall into the Schedule 5 category.
Nixon and the War on Drugs
In June 1971, Nixon officially declared a "War on Drugs," stating that drug abuse was "public enemy number one."
A rise in recreational drug use in the 1960s likely led to President Nixon's focus on targeting substance abuse. According to a 1969 Gallup poll, about 48 percent of Americans thought drugs were a serious problem.
As part of the War on Drugs initiative, Nixon increased federal funding for drug-control agencies and proposed strict measures, such as mandatory prison sentencing, for drug crimes. He also announced the creation of the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP), which was headed by Dr. Jerome Jaffe.
Nixon went on to create the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 1973. This agency is responsible for tackling drug use and smuggling in the United States.
At the start, the DEA was given 1,470 special agents and a budget of less than $75 million. Today, the agency has nearly 5,000 agents and a budget of $2.03 billion.
John Ehrlichman
During a 1994 interview, President Nixon's domestic policy chief, John Ehrlichman, provided inside information suggesting that the War on Drugs campaign had ulterior motives, which mainly involved helping Nixon keep his job.
In the interview, conducted by journalist Dan Baum and published in Harper magazine, Ehrlichman explained that the Nixon campaign had two enemies: "the antiwar left and black people." His comments led many to question Nixon's intentions in advocating for drug reform and whether racism played a role.
Ehrlichman was quoted as saying: "We knew we couldn't make it illegal to be either against the war or black, but by getting the public to associate the hippies with marijuana and blacks with heroin, and then criminalizing both heavily, we could disrupt those communities. We could arrest their leaders, raid their homes, break up their meetings, and vilify them night after night on the evening news. Did we know we were lying about the drugs? Of course, we did."
The 1970s and The War on Drugs
In the mid-1970s, the War on Drugs took a slight hiatus. Between 1973 and 1977, eleven states decriminalized marijuana possession.
Jimmy Carter became president in 1977 after running on a political campaign to decriminalize marijuana. During his first year in office, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to decriminalize up to one ounce of marijuana.
Say No To Drugs
In the 1980s, President Ronald Reagan reinforced and expanded many of Nixon's War on Drugs policies. In 1984, his wife Nancy Reagan launched the "Just Say No" campaign, which was an effort to educate children on the dangers of drug use.
President Reagan's refocus on drugs led to a significant increase in incarcerations for nonviolent drug crimes.
In 1986, Congress passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, which established mandatory minimum prison sentences for certain drug offenses. This law was later heavily criticized as having racist ramifications because it allocated longer prison sentences for offenses involving the same amount of crack cocaine (used more often by black Americans) as powder cocaine (used more often by white Americans).
Critics also pointed to data showing that people of color were targeted and arrested on suspicion of drug use at higher rates than whites, leading to disproportionate incarceration rates among communities of color.
The War on Drugs in the 21st Century
Public support for the war on drugs has waned in recent decades. Some Americans and policymakers feel the campaign has been ineffective or has led to racial divide. However, others still passionately support the effort.
In 2010, Congress passed the Fair Sentencing Act (FSA), which reduced the discrepancy between crack and powder cocaine offenses from 100:1 to 18:1.
The recent legalization of marijuana in several states and the District of Columbia has also led to a more tolerant political view on recreational drug use.
Technically, the War on Drugs is still being fought, but with less intensity and publicity than in its early years.


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ETG is the exclusive supplier of Cimco CAD CAM software products.
CIMCO CAD CAM software offers 5 elements – Cimco DNC-Max 7, Cimco MDC-Max 7, MDC-Max Web Client, Cimco NC-Base 7 and Cimco Edit 7, all of which ETG supplies and supports with in-depth product training available. CIMCO programmes are integral to efficiency on the shop floor, providing not only great tools to get the job done, but also a powerful and integrated platform for editing, designing, visualising, managing and communicating CNC programmes and related content. See all of Cimco's software platforms here.


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It's a shame that a man whose name was a hybrid of two beloved characters grew up to be such a hardened criminal, but that's exactly what happened. Yokamon Hearn, a killer with a police record that would put Darth Vader to shame, was executed tonight by the state of Texas after spending decades on death row.
UPDATE: A spokesman from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has confirmed that Yokamon chose not to eat a last meal.


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If you haven't yet discovered the European Journalism Observatory, you'll find it a great resource for news and research about news media. The Observatory's analysis of the Reuters Institute's recently released Digital News Report 2017 is a good introduction to its work.
The Observatory, founded in 2004, is a network of independent non-profit media research institutes in 14 countries that disseminates research on media and promotes professionalism and press freedom.
The Reuters Institute's 6th annual Digital News Report is based on a survey of more than 70,000 people in 36 countries and focuses on the digital issues that concern us all: fake news and the issue of trust, changing business models, and the role of social platforms.
A few of the highlights from the report:
- Four in 10 of the survey respondents think news media does a good job separating fact from fiction. That compares with only one-quarter who think social media does a good job in this regard.
- The percentage of people who pay for news varies widely from country to country, but remains low overall. Nevertheless, the Institute reports a jump in the number of people prepared to pay for online news in the United States, growing from 9 per cent to 16 per cent. Most of the new payments come from those under 35 years-old.
- Just over half of respondents say they use social media as a source of news each week, with 14 per cent saying social media is their main source of news.
"14 Key Findings from the Digital News Report", from the European Journalism Observatory.
"Digital News Report 2017" from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at Oxford University.


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Youth is Wasted on the Young
I always thought this quote was kind of funny and peculiar, I always thought it reeked of envy; yet I secretly wished I could somehow join this exclusive club, whose right of passage was simply the passing of time, to gain a deeper understanding of it. I was born in '81, just at the cusp of what they're calling Gen-Y; hell, I graduated H.S. in 2000 so that kind of makes me the official first wave of millennials huh?
Well, that means I'll be 27 this year and closer to 30 than to 20, so I recently had my first youth is wasted on the young moment. I was making my way to the radio station (on campus) and it was around that time of year when all of the freshmen and sophomores (i.e. the youngin's) were clearing out of the dorms; I saw a group of really young one's (it's crazy how obviously young people look in their late teens/early twenties) lallygagging outside, all care free and purple haired as they want, and I thought to myself "those bastards don't know how good they have it!" That's because I was running late and all stressed out because I was doing the radio Saturday evenings, working 40+ hours a week, and going to grad school on weeknights all at the same time: I was self admittedly envious of the fact that they had no pressing matters, they had no monkey on their back flinging poo at ever turn of life. As far as they were concerned, all they had to do was worry about getting their crap out by some arbitrary cutoff day.
Then I had to take a step back away from the situation and slap myself in the face to bring myself back to reality. By the time I finished my undergrad I'd been to Beijing, Taiwan (twice), lived on the east coast, lived on the west coast, fallen in love, gotten my heart broken, partied a lot, made wonderful wonderful friends... Long story short, I had a really sweet, kick-ass time in college.
The lesson learned is that life is wasted on the living.
It is every person's responsibility to live life right now. I think the author's heart was in the right place when he coined this phrase, but I think he lets himself and generations of people off the hook by placing the blame on a risk free (and therefore reward free) life on the naiveté of youth. I also have to give credit where credit is due; perhaps the genius of this quote is that young people will hear it and take a moment to reflect on their lives and, in an attempt to spite the generation that proceeds them, get up and actually do something with their lives.
One can only hope.
Glad to hear you had an ah-ha moment. Don't resent the choices you make–as you point out, you've made a lot of good choices and you continue to exam your place in the universe and where you want to be.
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Kinderling Mixtapes are fun, themed compilations lovingly curated for you!
Each mix is a must-have soundtrack for a fave, family funtime ... like heading off on a family road trip adventure; building rainbow rockets and pasta castles on a Sunday afternoon; BBQing by the beach on a steamy summer's day; or baking cakes and pies on a cold, rainy morning!
We have heaps of Mixtapes coming your way but if you have a special theme in mind, we'd love to hear your suggestions: firstname.lastname@example.com
Download Mixtapes to your phone and listen offline, anywhere, anytime. Grab our free app.
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We last added a paramedic unit 15 years ago and since then Whatcom County has grown by more than 40,000 people. We need to expand our emergency medical services system to maintain our fast response when people call for help.
Prop 1 is a dedicated source of funding for emergency medical services. This is a 29.5-cent levy that will cost the owner of the average home, assessed at $250,000, $74 per year. That's 20-cents a day for a fast response if you need to call for help.
By state law, the EMS levy can only be used for emergency medical services:
"Service would be diminished…resulting in increased response times to emergency calls."*
*Source : EMS Executive Oversight Board memo, 9/20/16
The levy was put on the ballot through unanimous votes of Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham, after a unanimous endorsement by the 15-month EMS Executive Oversight Board. For more information, including letters of support from all Fire Chiefs, Fire Commissioners and Fire Districts in Whatcom County, along with the 52-page recommendation from the EMS Executive Oversight Board.
City of Lynden
City of Bellingham
(Bellingham, WA) – Today local emergency medical first responders spoke out to clear up misinformation put forward by the Committee of Public Safety, a group formed to oppose the emergency medical services (EMS) levy on this November's ballot.
"This isn't about partisan politics for us, this is about saving lives," said Robert Glorioso, President of Bellingham/Whatcom County Firefighters... (Read More...) EMS Saves Lives Campaign Committee ( October 31, 2016 )
Three sent to Harborview after Monday morning wreck on Lummi Shore Bellingham Herald ( October 24, 2016 )
Teen driver, four passengers hurt in crash on Lummi Reservation Bellingham Herald ( October 24, 2016 )
City council hears pitch for Emergency Medical Services levy The Northern Light ( September 28, 2016 )
Man rescued after fall from 20-foot cliff at Larrabee State Park Bellingham Herald ( August 15, 2016 )
Bellingham man crashed over a cliff, but was able to call for help Bellingham Herald ( August 12, 2016 )
Whatcom voters will be asked to raise property taxes for EMS Bellingham Herald ( June 2, 2016 )
Bellingham cops, medics train to get aid to victims sooner Bellingham Herald ( April 2, 2016 )
Hiker rescued after 40-foot fall into water at Larrabee State Park Bellingham Herald ( March 6, 2016 )
Hiker rescued near Nooksack Falls Bellingham Herald ( January 24, 2016 )
Collaboration, Medical Technology Save Visitor's Life EMS World
LUCAS 2 survivor story Lucas-CPR.com
Marisa Bamesberger moved to Bellingham in 2009. She had spent 11 of her 13 years as an RN in emergency departments and currently works as a nurse team lead at St Joseph Medical Center's Emergency Department.
Karlee Deatherage is a life-long Washingtonian and moved to Bellingham in 2009 to study at WWU. After graduating, Karlee has worked on local campaigns, served as Congresswoman Suzan DelBene Outreach Coordinator in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, and currently works for RE Sources for Sustainable Communities.
I was born and raised her in Bellingham, I have been on the City Council since 1993, and have worked at Bellingham Cold Storage for 41 years.
April Barker is a Bellingham Council Member. She relocated to Bellingham in 1999 to attend a WWU graduate program.
Barry Buchanan is currently serving his first term on the Whatcom County Council. His first term began January 2014.
Erica has lived in Whatcom County since 1988, and is the community educator for South Whatcom Fire Authority. She is also a medical trainer for the Mt Baker Ski Patrol, and has been on the Whatcom County EMS Council for 14 years.
Dr Weiche has worked at St. Joseph's emergency department as an attending physician and assistant facility medical director for the past 13 years. His family includes two active boys and together they enjoy a variety of outdoor and athletic adventures.
Send a check, made out to EMS Saves Lives and mail to:


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A Rothesay man has taken it on himself to repaint several hundred metres of railings on the town's seafront - for the fifth year running.
And the railings are just one of the projects Iain Gillespie has devoted his time to in recent years in order to restore some pride to his home town.
Iain (78), a former stage manager in Glasgow and Edinburgh theatres, moved back to the island of his birth in 2004 and now gives a different section of the railings a new blue coat every year.
He paints when the weather is permitting, sometimes going from 6am to 8pm.
Iain started his career as an electrician in Rothesay before moving to the mainland and pursuing a career in stage management, serving 30 years at the King's Theatre in Edinburgh.
He returned to Bute after retiring, and has since become involved in a number of regeneration projects in Rothesay.
Iain told the Buteman: "In 2012 I started off repairing and repainting some of the benches in the town.
"I just do bits and pieces, whatever I can to make the place a wee bit tidier.
"I was born and grew up here, and I remember when the town was heaving. By the Easter weekend every year Rothesay would be pristine.
"The gardens would be trim, the flowers would all be perfect and the Discovery Centre would be looking shiny and new.
"With the demise of the tourism trade here in the 1960s and 70s it's been a long time since there has been that much pride in the town."
Stan Gaston is a resident of Battery Place, and thinks Iain should get more assistance.
He told the Buteman: "I have watched Iain paint the railings from my window for the past two years, and this has been a huge project for someone of his years.
"My main bone of contention is the safety factor; I watch small children climb on these railings, so where would we be if the maintenance ceased to continue?"
Argyll and Bute Council supply Iain with paint and brushes, and a spokesperson said: "We are always keen to work with local residents where they have expressed a willingness to get involved with projects that benefit their community."
Among the other projects Iain has taken on is the 'Rabbit Garden' at the end of Stuart Street in Rothesay.
When the row of shops and houses that formerly occupied the space was demolished, the area fell into disrepair.
Along with the council, Iain set about cleaning the area up in 2015, creating a boxed-in garden with varieties of plants and a sculpture of a rabbit carved from a tree trunk – officially named by local children Herbert Hop-a-Lot.


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Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Sloppy lentils (recipe in the comments)
Broccoli slaw
Fresh watermelon
Hot tea
We are babysitting for the 2-month-old baby of some friends of ours tonight, so a super easy meal seemed warranted. Crock pot to the rescue! This is one of our favorite vegetarian slow cooker meals and one of the earliest ones we did. It's very flavorful and makes a filling and festive meal. I don't think the lentils really taste like sloppy joes, but the concept is similar and this recipe is excellent on its own merits (rather than as a fake meat). The slaw is just shredded broccoli tossed with a simple dressing (whatever strikes our fancy - even something bottled - tonights was a balsamic mustard creation). All in all (after a simple morning or night before prep) this is a super simple meal. It's warming enough to be good for a spring night, but makes one long a bit for the summer nights to come. On that note I love using my slow cooker in the summer, as it doesn't heat up the kitchen!
Prep Notes
Difficulty: Easy
Chopping: Onion, bell pepper, broccoli
Time: 25 minutes prep + 8 hours to cook unattended
Make ahead: The whole idea.
J: "Vegetarian at its best."
M: "Perfect for tonight."
5 comments:
- J said...
Sloppy Lentils – M & J and Fresh from the Vegetarian Slow Cooker
Serves 4-6
1 T olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small bell pepper (colored or green), seeded and chopped
1 T chili powder
Cooking spray
1 ½ cups dried brown lentils
1 can diced tomatoes
5 cups water
2 T soy sauce
2 T yellow mustard
3 T brown sugar
1 t red wine vinegar
1 t salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Yellow mustard and ketchup
Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chili powder to the pan and toss to coat.
Oil the ceramic insert to your slow cooker with cooking spray and add the onion mixture. Add the rest of the ingredients (lentils through ground pepper) and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- April 15, 2008 at 9:34 PM
- Flynn said...
I miss this meal!!! One of my M&J faves...
- April 16, 2008 at 9:13 AM
- Lidian said...
What a brilliant meal!
- April 16, 2008 at 2:27 PM
- Marie said...
MMMM....I'll be trying this one soon! (I love lentils.) Did you have fun with the baby?
- April 16, 2008 at 7:50 PM
- J said...
I'm glad this one has gotten so much attention. It's really good. T loved it today :)
The baby slept the whole time with only one brief wake-up in need of her pacifier. It was the easiest babysitting of a two-month-old I can imagine. It brought forth NO memories of T being 8 weeks old, as sleep was not something he was "in to". I wanted to hold her and cuddle her, but it was not to be. Maybe next time...
- April 16, 2008 at 8:37 PM


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South West Madagascar Family Adventure
Antananarivo, Madagascar, Eastern Africa, Africa
"A family adventure exploring Madagascar and all the wonderful wildlife and culture it has to offer."
Having kids doesn't mean adventurous holidays have to stop! This incredible 2-week tour across South West Madagascar is designed to keep the whole family entertained and occupied, whilst discovering the stunning wildlife, landscapes and cultures of Madagascar. With the opportunity for animal encounters in the wild, caving in natural parks, bird watching and meeting the Malagasy people of Madagascar, this tour offers such a diverse range of exciting activities, making it an unforgettable trip that appeals to all ages and interests.
Starting in the capital city, you'll have the chance to visit some charming local towns before heading off to discover Madagascar's unique wildlife in national parks and reserves. The island is world-renowned for being home to unique and unusual species – all of which you'll get the chance to see in the wild! It's not all about the animals though – there's a stunning volcanic lake to explore, canyons and gorges to hike across and of course a beach paradise where you can simply relax. For a combination of wildlife sightings, cultural experiences and outdoor adventure, this is the ultimate family tour of Madagascar.
The forests of Madagascar are home to a huge variety of wildlife and 90% of these creatures are found exclusively on the island. This means that threats such as deforestation pose a huge risk, as if these habitats are destroyed, the unique species will also be lost forever. To combat this danger, Pioneer Expeditions is hugely committed to conserving the rainforest and works to support reforestation efforts and since 2008, they have has planted over 500,000 trees. On top of this Pioneer Expeditions also funds a tree nursery in Italavina. If you're interested in getting more involved, you can add it to your itinerary for a visit or even spend time volunteering there.
Pioneer Expeditions supports the local community by only hiring local guides and bringing custom to local restaurants and businesses that may not always benefit from the typical tourist trails. This not only helps support the local communities economically, but also ensures that you get a truly authentic experience, as it is the locals who know the areas best.
You'll be met at the airport and taken to Antananarivo – known as 'Tana' by the locals – where you can settle into your hotel.
After breakfast, meet your guide and head off to the charming town of Antsirabe, which is about 3 hours away. En route there's the choice of two different stop-offs: either visit Ambatolampy, a hub for local craftsmen, or head to Lake Tritriva, a breathtaking volcanic lake.
Ranomafana is stunning subtropical National Park, about 4 hours drive away. There's a stop on the way at Ambositra, where you can visit the famous woodcarving workshops. If time allows, you could even visit the reforestation project at Italavina. Once you get to the National Park, keep your eyes peeled for Lemurs, birds, lizards and frogs. In fact, there are 13 different species of lemur all in this one park!
To continue on you search for more animal sightings, head off on foot on an exciting hike through the forest (don't worry, the track is easy) to see lots more lemurs and critters, as well as stunning waterfalls along the way.
After a cooling paddle in the Namorona river, head off to Fianarantsoa, one of the largest towns in the highlands area with a beautiful old town full of history and culture. At the local paper factory, watch a local family go through each stage of papermaking and pick up some handcrafted souvenirs. After a bite to eat, head to a beautiful town in the Central Highlands called Ambavalao. The old town is known for its beautifully carved balconies and eye-catching tiled roofs, and you'll also come across herdsmen on the roads, giving you an authentic insight into local life.
A short distance away from Ambalavao – so short you can walk if you want! – is Anja Nature Reserve. Get a closer look at some wild animals, including lemurs that have become used to human interaction and might let you take some up-close photos. On top of this exciting animal encounter, check out the caves and explore the area, before driving to Tsarasoa, which is about 90 minutes away.
Pioneer Expeditions have worked with local agents on reforestation programs to protect the stunning wildlife in Madagascar. Tsarasoa is the main base for these reforestation efforts, and you'll have the chance to visit and maybe even plant your own sapling (depending on the time of year). These two days will be spent exploring the area and getting to know the locals.
After a morning exploring more of Tsarasoa, head off by car to Isalo, a stunning National Park filled with deep canyons and gorges. Spend 2 days exploring the huge area (81,000 hectares), which is a special treat for birdwatchers, as its home to 55 species, including the rare Benson's rock-thrush. Take a dip in naturally formed pools, offering the perfect cool down spot en route.
After an exciting 10 day trip, take the opportunity to wind down in Ifaty, where you can simply chill on white sandy beaches by the sea. If you fancy exploring, local fisherman can offer you a trip in their 'pirogues' (traditional fishing boats) or for an extra cost the hotel can arrange a trip to visit the Spiny Forest.
Transfer from Tulear back to Tana, where you have one last night to explore the city – check out the handicraft market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. Then on the final day, there's a transfer to the airport to take your flight home.
Rate Conditions
- The price shown is a 'from' price per person
- Click 'Ask a Question' up above to speak to the operator directly about this tour's availability, departure dates and costs
- Small group trip with a maximum of 8 people – can also be tailormade to suit.
- No single supplement
- All meals from days 2-10 and then once in Ifaty only breakfast is included due to independent activities
- Accommodation as described
- English speaking guide
- Driver and private vehicle from day 1 – day 11
- Local guides within the national parks
- All transfers
- Internal flight ticket
- All National Park entrance fees
- Any other services or activities not mentioned in inclusions - if in doubt, click 'Ask a Question' up above to chat to the operator.
- Meals other than mentioned
- International flights
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic and soft drinks (water included)
- Optional tours/activities eg. Antsokoay & Spiny Forest


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Extreme weather records (a selection)
Hottest place on earth:
57.3°C (136°F) at El Azizia, Libya in 1923
Coldest place on earth:
-89.2°C (-129°F) at Vostok, Antarctica (altitude 3420 m, 11 220 feet)
Coldest inhabited place:
-71.1°C (- 96°F) at Oimekon (Siberia), Russia
Largest temperature differential:
106.7°C : from -70 to +36.6°C at Verkhoyansk, Russia (range of 192°F from -94 to 98°F)
Most precipitation in one minute:
38.1 litres per sq.m. (1.5 inches) at Barst, Guadeloupe
Most precipitation in 24 hours:
1870 litres per sq.m. (73 inches) at Cilaos on the island of La Réunion, in 1952
Most precipitation in one year:
26,461 litres (1041 inches) at Cherrapundi, India in 1860/1861
Most rainy days per year:
350 at Kauai (Hawaii), USA
Heaviest snowfall:
1.93 m (76 inches) at Silver Lake (Colorado), USA
Highest snowfall in one year:
31.1 m (1224 inches, of 102 feet) on Mount Rainier (Washington State), USA
Highest measured windspeed:
416 km/h (258 mph) at Mount Washington (New Hampshire), USA


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Thousands of farmers are in Des Moines to check out the latest equipment at the Iowa Power Farming Show.
New tractors and combines are nice, but many farmers would be happy with some certainty, instead.
2013 was a great year production wise for Iowa farmers, but a great harvest doesn't necessarily provide the money to buy new equipment.
Farmers like Darrell Hock say there's no use in having twice the corn if he has to sell it at half the price.
"Our prices are only 50% of what they were a year ago," said Hock.
On Monday, a conference committee reached a deal on a new farm bill that could soon make its way to the House and Senate floors.
The final draft will likely eliminate direct payments farmers receive simply for putting a crop in the ground.
Monte Shaw, the director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association says farmers were willing to give up those payments.
Farmers believed the demand for ethanol and bio-diesel would keep prices high.
"They could do that because they had a market. They had the RFS to create a market," said Shaw.
The RFS is the Renewable Fuel Standard.
Shaw says lawmakers are threatening to scale it back, which would mean less ethanol and bio-diesel in America's fuel supply.
In turn, corn and soybean values could plummet.
"You took away the safety net out of the farm bill and now you're yanking the market from underneath farmers. That is a recipe for rural economic disaster," Shaw told Channel 13 News.
The RFS and a new farm bill may be two separate debates, but add it up and you'll find each depends on the other.
Iowa farmers have a lot of incentive to say "don't mess with the RFS".
"I'm absolutely worried about both," said Bill Crowe, a farmer from Indianola.
Both Senator Tom Harkin and Senator Charles Grassley have urged the EPA not to reduce the Renewable Fuel Standard.
As far as their support for the new farm bill, Harkin, a member of the conference committee backs it calling it a sound, balanced, bi-partisan bill.
In a statement to Channel 13 News, Grassley said he was still reviewing the bill.
He agrees it provides certainty for farmers, but says he still weighing the positives and negatives.
The debate on both seems to be far from over.


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Whether the destination is Cancun, Key West or Montego Bay - here are the perfect swimsuits to take along to wow your friends...
Saturday, March 19, 2011
1952 Spring Break Wardrobe: Vintage Jantzen Lastex-Powered Swim Suits
Whether the destination is Cancun, Key West or Montego Bay - here are the perfect swimsuits to take along to wow your friends...
50 comments:
great post Susan, good to see you back.xx.ReplyDelete
What a find! I'm always disppointed when I find vintage swimwear as it's always huge. xxxReplyDelete
Love! My Boyfriend just informed me that he would be willing to wear a vintage suit when we go to Viva this year. I have been on the look out for awesome men's suits. (I already bought 3 new ones for myself, Naughty!).ReplyDelete
This has my mouth watering with excitement. THis post couldn't have come at a better time! Thanks and great to see you back!
Fabulous find in an old suitcase, wow! I particularly love the men's trucks, fabulous, but I think my OH wouldn't wear something so short either. I love those cut out men's trucks too, I can't imagine anyone wearing them actually!ReplyDelete
Nice to see you Susan :o)
I love the ladies' vintage swimsuit styling! But those men's trunks with the 'peek-a-boo' lattice cut-outs on the sides are a bit much! Wow! lol! I cannot see my guy wearing anything close to that ever! lol!ReplyDelete
Nevertheless, I adore the vintage Jantzen and Catalina ads! I hope to find a couple of suits for the summer in the style pictured above. I bet it is very figure-flattering and after being lazy this winter, I need all the help I can get! lol
I just love the vibe of those old adverts, but am laughing at the Daredevil trunks - looks like something hideous in nylon we'd see in the window of Ann Summers (raunchy high street 'sex' shop) come Valentine's Day. But he doesn't care, insouciantly puffing on his pipe...he's secure in his masculinity!ReplyDelete
Love the ladies suit though, and your amazing suitcase finds.
What a great find and what great prices you got well done you.ReplyDelete
lovely yellow swimsuit,I have never seen any at the boot sales or jumbo sales here.guys sharks trunks are cute.ReplyDelete
Where you been at?
Blimey some hefty prices going there. I don't have a vintage style swimsuit, wish l did though - some great pics here.ReplyDelete
Yay ... your back. Nice suits. Click my name to checkout a swimsuit from 1910. Or go to this URL:ReplyDelete
hey susan! ohmygosh, i LOVE your blog. i haven't visited in a long while ... and shame. on. ME!!!ReplyDelete
thanks so much for stopping by mine and leaving a comment. s'wonderful to hear from you!
your "surprise" finds in the $2 suitcase = TERRIFIC!! you GO girl. i LOVE finding treasures like that.
really enjoyed the vintage swimsuit ads too. how much fun is that?! a pipe on the beach. haha!
stay in touch!
terry lee
That's one terrific goof on the estate seller's part! Wow! LOVE the yellow suit. I really want to make a vintage suit this summer, if I can find suitable fabric.ReplyDelete
I really enjoyed this post!! Gotta love those man trunks lol :)ReplyDelete
Glad you're all enjoying the swimsuits - thanks for your fun comments!ReplyDelete
I especially enjoyed Lakota's comment: "...he doesn't care, insouciantly puffing on his pipe...he's secure in his masculinity!"
Michael thanks for leading me to that great 1910 postcard. You're right - her swimsuit is big enough to be a life raft! haha...
Ho Susan I think I know this swimsuit!! I "talk" to you for the first time thanks to it!;)ReplyDelete
Lexy - Yes! I remember! It was back in June when my blog was still new. You were interested in the swimsuit until it started going way too high! Too bad you didn't end up with it - I'll bet you would have looked fantastic in it!ReplyDelete
You surprised me with the men's swimwear ... in my town there is a bowling alley, the walls are painted with old ads and one of them is this brand of swimwear.ReplyDelete
That red Jantzen suit the fellow is wearing is quite daring, with the peekaboo side panels. The pipe is definitely the perfect accessory at the beach! Thanks for a fun post once again, Susan!ReplyDelete
Great swimsuits! I wonder if there was fabric under those criss-cross strips or it it's just skin? Quite daring!ReplyDelete
Hello sweet S!ReplyDelete
I just adored the yellow swimsuit <3 Thank you for sharing :)
The shark briefs are so. KILLER. I'm looking for a yellow swimsuit like the very one you found! I'll keep checking vintage luggage pockets and maybe I'll get lucky, too. Let the lightening strike twice! Also... cutaways on men's briefs in the Jantzen ad? Feels so wrong! Why!ReplyDelete
What a coincidence, I have that exact case too! It's part of set I bought from a car boot sale. Unfortunately, I wasn't as lucky as you with the vintage swimsuits, though I did get a couple of folding clothes hangers to match the cases.ReplyDelete
I LOVE that yellow swimsuit, amazing finds! xx
Weren't the ladies suits of the era just darling??!! Love'em!And so bosom supportive!ReplyDelete
I have a pic of my father in some fabulous trunks,I must find it!
I absolutely adore vintage swimwear. Unfortunately, we didn't get to go on spring break this year and there aren't many beaches in Kansas... I had to wear my swimsuit at the YMCA!ReplyDelete
Oh! Sharks!! I love sharks!! What a great pattern!! :")ReplyDelete
And a lovely vintage bathing suit in yellow.. *sigh*
Well, at least I have my red Esther Williams bathing suit - so I am not THAT envious.. ;")
I just noticed that you have a link to my film blog on your blog list!! I am so honoured!! Thank you so much!!!
Have a great time,
I have a red Jantzen I wore in Vegas last year. I purchased it deadstock and I love it. It is hard to find a cute vintage suit that fits me, and was thrilled to win the auction, though I paid more than I wanted to for it!ReplyDelete
love the advets and you were so lucky to find those swimsuits xReplyDelete
Dear Susan,ReplyDelete
Love the post! Happy Springtime to you! Hope all is well...
Peace & Plenty,
Sheila and Sherrill
I hope you're okay, Susan! I miss your blogging.. :/ReplyDelete
Amazing post! Love the 50's swimsuit, I've got similar one, in green color.ReplyDelete
Hugs and kisses
Wow! Great presentation of your themes. Good presentation. Thanks.Beautiful bangladeshReplyDelete
Love those swimsuits!ReplyDelete
Hello :) Thanks for the comments, so nice to hear from you again!! I hope you're doing well and having a good summer. I'm enjoying my holiday but missing my boyfriend back in Ireland heaps! Hope to see you blogging again some day, but take your time. No need to rush when you're not up for it :) All the best xxxReplyDelete
Miss K
Hey Susan!! Just to say that I miss your posts...! But I've got to admit that I'm pretty quiet on blogspot myself cause I found a new job in Paris. And it keeps me so busy I lost my creativity!;)ReplyDelete
I would really like to have some news from you.
Dear Susan, just a little hello from your blog friend :) Miss your blogging. I hope you're okay :)ReplyDelete
hugs and kisses
Miss K
- AnonymousSeptember 18, 2011 at 10:09 AM
That yellow Jantzen is GORGEOUS! xReplyDelete
Hello and happy new year! Thanks for your comment, I was glad to hear from you again! :) xxReplyDelete
Latest News Updates Bollywood, Hollywood, Dating & FashionReplyDelete
Online Bollywood News and Reviews
Timeless, these are. Well, maybe not. But if they ever go out of fashion, I will stage a fashion show. Or a fashion coup.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJanuary 30, 2012 at 3:16 PM
ADORE!!! I have a 50's bikini that I have yet to be brave enough to wear...!ReplyDelete
LOOOVE the yellow swinsuit!ReplyDelete
Oh my gosh! Those red swim trunks for men in the 50s! Those are so daring! I adore that yellow bathing suit though, so cute!!!ReplyDelete
Rodellee | Adore Vintage
Haha, those trunks certainly leave little to the imagination don't they?ReplyDelete
My husband would gladly relax with a pipe... however in a sensible pair of baggy shorts I think! It might just be a vintage look too far for him, no 'streamlining' please we're British!
Those sharks are just frikkin amazing! I would like to see George Cloney in a old fashioned movie with 50s flair to it with those on.ReplyDelete
So beautiful!! <3ReplyDelete
Is it odd that I find the criss cross mens trunks quite sexy :sReplyDelete
Great post there is something really fabulous about vintage swimwear.
Estate sale shopping is the best. Straight to the source without all the outrageous mark-ups (sometimes). That yellow suit is way to sexy for words. I collect every vintage 50's swimsuit I can get my hands on, but have never been lucky enough to find one at an estate sale.ReplyDelete
شركة نقل عفش بالقصيمReplyDelete
شركة نقل عفش بتبوك
شركة نقل عفش بابها
شركة نقل عفش بنجران
شركة نقل عفش بحائل
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالمدينة المنورةReplyDelete
شركات تنظيف بمكة
شركة مكافحة حشرات
شركة تنظيف بالدمام
شركة تنظيف بالمدينة
I love all of your comments - it's what makes blogging fun! C'mon, let's get a conversation going...


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Have you ever wished to create an android app for your website or facebook fan page. Or ever wanted to create android app without any coding skills. Well most of us had. Android is the most popular mobile OS and everyone who has either a small business or wants to set a brand name among others wants to have an android app. Having a large user base of Android, capsule we would be communicating with a number of peoples in no times thus promoting and building our brand name. Being a non coder myself i too kept looking for tutorials on how to create android app without any coding skills.
Creating android app is not an easy job. Not everyone who wishes to create android app is aware of the coding stuff that is needed. So, doctor how to get your android app? We are definitely not looking for a solution to hire someone and pay them with an amount we would rather use in promoting our brand.
GoesAPP is a brand new website which helps you create android app without any coding skills in no time. You don't need to have any coding knowledge as well as you don't need to pay them a single dime for this purpose. GoesAPP foundation was laid by ex-Googlers.
Now, no more struggling with your wish to create android app for your small business or brand. Follow this video below to know how to create android app without any coding skills.
How to create android app without any coding skills for free
Now you need to Login via any of the social media platform provided grant permission it is seeking for.
Now you are ready to create android app without any coding skills and for free.
- Once you Login, you will be seeing a page something like this.
- Enter the URL for which you wish to create you android app. Click on Build App. Once you do this, you can see its effect on the virtual smartphone on the right. You will be redirected to a page where you can add several other features to your android app.
- With this feature you can add several add on features like links to your social pages, you can also add your photos from facebook or picasa albums. You can even direct users to your YouTube Videos. Add your favourite pages or links to your online stores and even a contact US details. In short your app will not be just a basic app with just a preview of your website but will be complete with all the necessary things an app should have.
- Once you are done doing this, click on finish and that's it you are ready with your android app to be published. You now have the key to create android app without any coding skills for any number of online contents. Here is a video tutorial for this.
A video Tutorial
[alert style="green"]NOTE: To publish this android app on Google Play Store you will be charged a one time 25 USD fees by google. This will give you a developer account with lifetime membership. This fees is not charged by GoesApp and is charged by google. You have to pay this fees if you want your app to be published in to Google Play Store. Or if you don't want your app to be published in the market you can provide QR code which can be scanned and users will be able to download your app from your website. [/alert]


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Wallace And Skykomish Rivers At Night
Drive east 22 miles from Everett, Washington on highway 2 to Sultan, Washington.
In the Still of the Night Sultan, Washington January 19, 2012 This is the confluence of the Wallace and Skykomish rivers, shot in total darkness. I am so enthralled by shooting in the dark that I will do everything I can to capture more images in the dark as I have the opportunity to do. Night time is my newest favorite time to shoot! --Jim-- Canon EOS 5D Mark II ,Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM 120s f/2.8 at 24.0mm iso200 Full EXIF Info Date/Time 19-Jan-2012 21:44:00 Model Canon EOS 5D Mark II Flash Used No Focal Length 24 mm Exposure Time 120.00 sec Aperture f/2.8 ISO Equivalent 200 Exposure Bias 0 White Balance 2300k Metering Mode center weighted (2) Exposure Program Bulb ©2012 Jim Stiles www.jimstilesphotos.com http://www.redbubble.com/people/jimstiles/works/8375378-wallace-and-skykomish-rivers-night


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BrahMos Chief receives Gaurav Samman from Govt. of Madhya PradeshBrahMos Aerospace (November 02, 2016) Print This News
BHOPAL: Hon'ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan felicitated Sudhir Mishra, Distinguished Scientist and Chief Controller DRDO, also CEO & MD of BrahMos Aerospace with "Madhya Pradesh Gaurav Samman" at a glittering ceremony held on 01 November on the occasion of Madhya Pradesh Day at Lal Parade Ground, Bhopal.
"Gaurav Samman" is a prestigious Award of Government of Madhya Pradesh which is conferred to individual hailing from Madhya Pradesh and have performed exceptionally well in brightening the name of the State at global level.
Shri Mishra who was born in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh has done his Engineering Graduation from Jabalpur Engineering College followed by higher education at IIT Madras and NIT Warangal and has contributed outstandingly in the field of Missile Technology and is currently the Chief of the World's fastest Supersonic Cruise Missile Project, BrahMos.
His outstanding contributions have resulted in the realisation of many advanced capabilities in the Weapon System including top attack capability for the mountainous warfare operations, realisation of airborne launcher and its integration with Su-30 MKI aircraft, establishment of many state-of-the-art Technical Positions, deployment in various arms of Indian Armed Forces and numerous CSR activities carried out across the India including Madhya Pradesh.


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ThreeSixty Dev, Austen House
Austen House - Southampton
- Client: ThreeSixty Developments
- Main Contractor: McAleer & Rushe
- Design and Installation of Reception, Common Room, Management Suite and Café area
Austen House, ThreeSixty's new student accommodation in Southampton, will be home to students from September 2016. Links were once again asked by ThreeSixty to design, manufacture and install yet another exciting reception, social space and back of house. Utilising our vast experience we created spaces that inspire all who visit and use them regularly.
The design team at Links understand the importance of the student experience, this is at the heart of every scheme they deliver, for more information on how they can help you get the most from your spaces please call Frances Culley on 01625 619 777.


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Account Inquiries | Personal | Visa USA
Manage your Visa Credit Card account online. Includes links to Bank of America, Bank One, Capital One, Chase, Citibank, Fleet, MBNA, National City, Providian, .
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2009 Toyota Custom - $14,250.00
2009 Toyota Yaris Custom - VITZ RS
Created out of Japan the Toyota Yaris is a nice modern car and their hatchback body style has proved to be very popular. This Yaris is more than your typical car though. It has been built up to be one cool custom and with over $12,000 of modifications it is amazing we are only asking $14,250. There is no way you could buy another and transform it into this for that asking price. In Japan, the same cars are released under the Vitz name and there is a higher level Vitz RS model that has some similar body modifications. This car has some of those mods plus more! It has won many awards with the most recent being 1st place Toyota at Hot Import Nights in Dallas. The following tables outline some of the body and mechanical features but in addition to that the car also has an awesome sounding Sony XAV 701 HD stereo. It has bluetooth, ipod and usb links and utilizes a fully custom speaker box with lighted speakers.
Ings Sideskirts
Ings Air Wing
JDM Vits RS Front Bumper, Grill and Foglights
Vitz Emblems
C-One Rear Bumper
Rear LED Tail and Brake Lights
Fenders Pulled and Rolled to Match
Shorty Antenna
Avant Garde M240 Wheels
Window Tint
1.5L Engine
Automatic Transmission
Blitz Supercharger w/Adjustable Sensitivity
Kustoms Unlimited Intake
Micro Image Metal Engine Cover
Tanabe Medallion Exhaust
Top Speed Titanium Exhaust Tips
Remote Start w/Alarm System
High Decibel
Horn Drilled and Slotted Rotors, New Brakes
D2 Coilovers Adjustable Shocks
GT Spect Strut Tower Bar
Anti Sway Front Stabilizer Bar
NRG Gold Fender Covers
NRF Rose Gold Radiator Cap
Cold AC
Power Windows
Power Locks
If your looking for a daily driver that can also smoke the tires then this is the car for you. It utilizes high quality components throughout and runs great. Plus, being a hatchback it has a comfortable interior but plenty of storage space if you need to put the seats down and throw stuff in the back.
Don't miss your chance to own the toughest
Toyota in town for only $14,250.00!
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Akumoto, the company with headquarters in Czech Republic, in collaboration with ČEZ, an electricity generation conglomerate, managed to create an electric scooter that set a new world record among its electric counterparts for the longest distance crossed in 24 hours.
This week the Akumoto electric scooter managed to register a figure of 1,136.3 kilometers (706.1 miles). The companies calculated that the trip needed only 40.8 kWh of electricity and cost only 190 Czech Korunas, which is about $10.35.
Lukáš Drahovzal, the sales manager at Akumoto, outlined that the test of the new electric scooter and the record it set was meant to illustrate that two-wheeled electric vehicle are more versatile than some might think.
ČEZ mentioned that in the near future there plans to carry out tests of electric vans and trucks.
[via Akumoto]


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New Fee Structure for Nonimmigrant Visas
New Fee Structure for Nonimmigrant Visas
As of June 4, 2010, all U.S. Consular Sections worldwide will introduce a two-tiered fee structure for nonimmigrant visas. This structured system coincides with a small global application fee increase, designed to balance the costs of recent enhancements to the visa application process.All applicants for business or tourism (B-1/B-2), crew member (C-1/D), student (F or M), or exchange (J) categories will now pay $140 and receive a white receipt. Petition-based work visas (H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories) will now pay $150 and receive a green receipt. These two receipts will still be purchased at approved HDFC Bank branches. K (fiancé) applicants will now pay $350 and will continue to pay their fees at the Consular Section.Applicants who purchased their receipts before June 4 will pay the balance between the old and new fees at the time of the interview. The previous application fee was $131 for all visas.The Department of State adopted the tiered system because petition-based applications require significantly more processing than other visa applications. The rate increase is for improvements in the manner and speed with which visa applications are processed, and in particular for fraud-detection efforts. The total fee covers the cost of accepting, adjudicating, and issuing nonimmigrant visa applications.In India alone, the U.S. government has increased consulate staffing by 40% over the last four years, and has invested over $100 million updating and expanding consular facilities. This includes a new consulate opened in Hyderabad, renovations to New Delhi consular facilities and a new consulate building in Mumbai.
two-tiered fee structure, nonimmigrant visas, global application fee increase, visa application process, B-1/B-2, C-1/D, Petition-based work visas, Consular Section, U.S. government
Copyright © Pacifica-Consultants.com. All rights reserved. ..Office 313, Third Floor, SCO 215-16-17, Sector - 34A, Chandigarh - 160034 [India]


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Regular Or Gluten Free Breakfast Oxford?
Do you need a Regular English breakfast or by Supplement, a Gluten Free Speciality called 'Gluten Free Breakfast Oxford'; either is home cooked by Diana.
But pampered you will be with Full English Breakfast, fruit, cereals and toast – you choose some or all of that! Or for those guests who prefer continental with fresh croissants (when available) from Gatineau, or some lovely fresh bread or brioche or choose the gluten free alternatives, by letting me know – I need at least 3 or 4 days ahead if you want my Gluten Free special breakfast so email me please 🙂
Then there Diana's famous homemade yogurt, totally organic and creamy, with fresh fruits on the side – Seasonal and organic whenever possible!
So, Diana's Speciality Breakfast "Gluten Free Breakfast Oxford"
If you are wheat/gluten intolerant or adhere to a low-carb, keto lifestyle, for breakfast there's an alternative to complement traditional cooked breakfast of eggs & bacon:
1. Diana's own home made yoghurt (yes, many supermarket yoghurts contain wheat).
2. Diana's own produced cereal that I have called Chocolate Nut Crunch – made from a nut flour.
3. Diana's versions of Maria Emmerich's Amazing Healthified Breads – nut flour based.
4. Gluten free sausages, no wheat and natural casings.
If you need gluten free/low-carb options, as I said above, please make sure you reserve this option as they are getting very popular and there is a small extra cost. I want to make sure they are available for those of you who really need them, as I am passionate about health – both yours and mine 🙂
Food at Diana's
I run a B&B so I make no apology for not providing evening dining ;( I leave that to the experts in our suburbs of Oxford or the city, while we concentrate on giving you the best start in the day with our breakfast.
I can recommend the following in Summertown, Portabello's, Joe's, Cibo, Xi'an (if you like chinese and also does takeaway), Mamma Mia's (if you prefer Italian) and Saffron (if Indian takes your fancy and they also do takeaway!).
What Guests Say About the Food
"Diana's top recommendation, 'Gee's' a restaurant just a couple of miles down the main road, was excellent and as she said herself if we could dine at Gee's every night, we would certainly do so! But Diana's breakfast is not to be missed either, especially her beautiful yogurt!"
"We loved dining at Joe's the food was delicious and very good value".
"I have been coming regularly to Diana's B&B and I really look forward to cooked breakfast being made for me! I love the scrambled eggs with fresh coriander or sometimes parsley and it all goes well with the breakfast conversations".


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Bayou Classic Stainless Beer Bucket 3.5 GallonBayou Classic
The Bayou Classic Stainless Beer Bucket is a high quality beer bucket that will last a lifetime. Larger outer diameter at the top than the bottom, the Bayou Classic Stainless Beer Bucket will keep your ice longer and your beer cold. The Bayou Classic Stainless Beer Bucket has a bale handle made of stainless steel as well.
Stainless steel 3.5 gallon beverage bucket is great for entertaining a group on the patio and keeping your beverages cool. It features all stainless steel construction with a carry handle. From casual to elegant entertaining, Bayou Classic understands the importance of presentation. 13" diameter top x 10.25" tall. 8.4" bottom.
- 3.5 Gallon / 14 Quart
- Top: 13" O.D.
- Bottom: 8.375" O.D.
- Height: 10.25"


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Ivy Academia
About Us
Director's Welcome
Vision & Mission
Board of Directors
Leadership Team
LCAP & Federal Addendum
2018-2023 Charter Petition
EPA Report
Wellness Policy
Ivy Academia and UTLA Contract 19-20
Staff Directory
Photo Album
Video Gallery
WASC 2016 Self Study Report
Title IX
Comprehensive School Safety Plan
Audited Financials
Williams Act
Charter Transparency
Admission Process
Application of Interest
Prospective Parents
Elementary (TK-5)
Middle and High School (6-12)
SBAC Resources
Special Programs
Student Support Services
Bell Schedule
Classes / Homework
HS Student Council
Order Transcripts
Student Transcript Toolkit
Britannica School - English
Britannica School - Spanish
After School Care
Events Calendar
Free/Reduced Lunch Application
Ivy Parent Leadership Group (i-PLG)
Lunch Menus
Parents Guide for CAASSP
Parent Organizations
Parent Teacher Student Handbook
Prop 39 Intent to Re-enroll
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Uniform Complaint Procedures UCP
Uniform and Dress Code
Weekly E-Blast
2019-2020 School Calendar
Website Login
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PowerSchool for Teachers
EDU Foundation
Apply Now
Follow Us
About Us
Ivy Academia Entrepreneurial Charter School celebrates the accomplishments of our students, staff and instructional community. Please review some of our accomplishments:
In 2007, Ivy received the New York Times Award
In 2007, Ivy received the Kaufman Foundation Platinum Award
In 2007, Ivy joined National Honor Society
In 2008, Ivy became a member of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF)
In 2009, Ivy Cheer Team took first and second place in competition
In 2010, Ivy received a six year term of accreditation by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
In 2010, HS Girls' Volleyball Team was the undefeated CIF Volleyball Champion
In 2010, Ivy students took second place in the UCLA Anderson School of Business ECHO Project
In 2010, Ivy students received the Best Community Service Award in the USC QuikScience Challenge
In 2011, Ivy students took first place in the UCLA Anderson School of Business ECHO Project
In 2011, Ivy honored our first graduating class
In 2012, Ivy's Valedictorian received the Gates Millennium Scholarship
In 2013, Ivy's Charter was renewed for 5 years
In 2013, Ivy students received the Best Future Visionaries Award in the USC QuikScience Challenge
In 2014, HS Girls' Volleyvall Team was the CIF Champion
In 2015, HS Girls' Basketball Team came in as CIF First Runner Up
In 2015, MS students took third place in the UCLA Anderson School of Business Project ECHO!
In 2017, Two HS teams take first and third place in technology in the UCLA Anderson School of Business Project ECHO!
Our staff continues to shine professionally and bring pride to our organization:
Ms. Jimenez was honored as the Ivy Academia Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2017.
Ms. Santiago was honored as the Ivy Academia Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2016.
Mrs. Daneshmand was honored as the Ivy Academia High School Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2015.
Mrs. Martinez was honored as the Ivy Academia Middle School Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2015.
Mrs. Booth was honored as the Ivy Academia Elementary School Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2015.
Ms. Guss was honored as the Ivy Academia Middle School Teacher of the Year by the Encino Chamber of Commerce 2014.
Mrs. Cuprill and Mrs. Brasch were honored for the Civic Learning Award by the State Superintendent and the California Bar Association
Ms. Gennaro was honored by the Consortium of Entrepreneurial Education
Program Highlights:
GATE Program (Gifted and High Ability) in Grades 2-8
Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Grades 9-12
High School Courses approved by University of California and California State University
Credit Recovery courses in Grades 9-12
We are committed to giving back to our community. Here are some examples of how we have contributed to others:
Donated ten pallets of food to West Valley Food Pantry
Raised $1500 for Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and donated candy to the stuents in a program called Reverse Trick or Treat
Raised close to $2000 for the Pennies for Leukemia and Lymphoma Association
Raised close to $3000 for the Diabetes Association
Raised money for Ronald McDonald Foundation
Organized Teddy Bear Drive for the Youngest Victims of Katrina; by working closely with FedEx, Ivy shipped over 50 boxes filled with Teddy Bears and letters of support
Other Accomplishments:
Participated and won in two categories of the Kids' Fitness Challenge organized and sponsored by Assembly person Lloyd Levine, Councilman Dennis P. Zine and LAUSD Board Member Jon Lauritzen
Won the Fine Arts Drama Award for the student production "The Tempest" at the California Student Media & Multimedia Festival, sponsored by the California School Library Association
Participated in two episodes of Make a Wish Foundation where two Ivy students won their wishes. The first was to have a shopping spree for a few children that lost everything in Hurricane Katrina disaster. The second was to bring real snow to a sixth grader that is very ill with leukemia
Created student teaching partnerships with University of Southern California, Loyola Marymount University and California State University Northridge
Participated and won Nickelodeon "Let's Just Play" program
Helped the LA Daily News with "Kids Translators"
Started a Community "I Love Reading Week" that will be held every Spring
Implemented PowerSchool in order to keep parents current with student's grades and attendance
Students wrote letters and created Valentine's Day greeting cards to sent to overseas troops.
Ivy Academia Memberships & Affiliations
Ivy Academia is an active member of the following organizations:
CIF Sport (California Interscholastic Federation)
National Honor Society
California Charter School Association
Charter School Development Center
Executives of San Fernando Valley
Woodland Hills/Tarzana Chamber of Commerce
Encino Chamber of Commerce
For information on these organizations, please click on the links above (if available).
Ivy Academia is dedicated to being a part of our local and nationwide community and to encourage our students, faculty, families and friends how to become more involved.
Director's Welcome
Mission & Vision
School Accountability Report Card (SARC)
Health and Wellness Policy
School Accountability Report Card (SARC)
Ivy and UTLA Contract
Comprehensive School Safety Plan
Williams Act
Charter Transparency


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Divination Method: The Goddess Guidance Oracle
Card(s) Drawn: Vesta
Key Word(s): Home
Basic Message: "Your household situation is improving, either through a move or a healthy change in the occupants."
My Interpretation: Vesta is the Roman Goddess of the Home & Hearth. She is a fire Goddess that brings both literal & emotional warmth to our homes. This is precisely what we should all focus on in the coming week. The proverbial "They" say that "Home is where the heart is", if that is indeed true, then our heart is also where our home is.
Let me explain what I mean. Your outward environment effects your inner environment just as much as your inner environment effects the outer. I guess you could revisit the one thing I said in Wednesday's post about finding your sparkle: "Your world won't sparkle unless you do". So what does that mean in regards to this? Well, it's time to focus on finding that balance between your inner and outer environments. If you're feeling very at home and content in your own skin, make sure where you spend your time reflects that. If you're having a bit of trouble feeling that comfort, change your environment to encourage those feelings. It can mean cleaning out some clutter so you feel as though you can breathe. It could be rearranging the furniture, painting a room, designing & installing an art feature on your gigantic living room wall, or even something as simple as lighting some candles and listening to your favorite music. A calm, joyful, peaceful environment will coax the same feelings from within your heart. Let the fire of the candles – or of the fireplace – burn away the cold and negative (figuratively, people…Pixie does NOT want you to set fire to yourself or your home, lol).
All in all, this is a week to feel safe and loved. Some may discover that they are finally "feeling at home" for the first time in a long while. This may be due to an actual move, or perhaps a more symbolic move, such as a shift in thinking in regards to ones place in the world. Remember that "feeling at home" does not always involve a physical place…but is sometimes a feeling that is evoked by certain individuals or experiences.
Home implies intimacy, the kind that goes beyond – yet, may also include – the physical.
Home is comfort, safety, warmth, laughter, and love.
Home is where we often long to be when things get tough.
After all…
Everyone is aware of the multiple attacks that happened in Paris this past week. The saddest part is that this was not the only horrific act of violence to occur. Two suicide bombers walked into a Beirut marketplace a day before the Paris attacks, which resulted in 44 dead and 200+ injured. Many deaths in the African villages of Ndassima & Mala (as part of ongoing religious violence) took place Monday. Tuesday saw dozens killed in a bombing in Nigeria, as well as a Russian jet destroyed by a bomb over Egypt. Add to that the seemingly endless string of fatal incidents here in the U.S. – whether they be incidents against law enforcement…by law enforcement…or yet another mass shooting.
The World as a whole is under siege by these and other assaults. This fire of violence has only been fueled by the irrational, fear & hate filled reactions by those who've heard of them. The masses are rejecting the idea of taking in Syrian refugees for fear that they will be terrorists. The majority of comments I have seen on social media have been disappointing to say the least. Many have come from our pool of G.O.P. presidential…candidates, but the number from regular everyday folks of all walks of life and faiths (including pagans) is overwhelming.
What people in this country seem to be forgetting is that refusing these refugees dishonors the values of this country. The Statue of Liberty tells us this herself.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
It is up to us to end the violence. Each and every one of us, as individuals, holds some level of responsibility on the journey to world peace. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama was asked about his view of the Paris attacks. He commented on the levels of violence and bloodshed of the 20th century and concluded that this century's violence is in effect a spill-over of those acts. So, what should we do? His Holiness says:
"People want to lead a peaceful lives. The terrorists are short-sighted, and this is one of the causes of rampant suicide bombings. We cannot solve this problem only through prayers. I am a Buddhist and I believe in praying. But humans have created this problem, and now we are asking God to solve it. It is illogical. God would say, solve it yourself because you created it in the first place.
We need a systematic approach to foster humanistic values, of oneness and harmony. If we start doing it now, there is hope that this century will be different from the previous one. It is in everybody's interest. So let us work for peace within our families and society, and not expect help from God, Buddha or the governments."
I think that's some pretty good advice. We need to work for peace, and we need to start at home, and EXTEND that spirit of peace beyond that of our friends and family. Rain compassion down on those who need it. Do something to help someone in need. Let go of any attitudes that make you question whether or not someone in need "deserves" help…just help.
Forget about the concepts of "Us" and "Them" for we are all one. "Imagine there's no countries. It isn't hard to do. Nothing to kill or die for, and no religion too. Imagine all the people living life in peace…"
I may be a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. So let's all Imagine, and Give Peace a Chance.
Hello all you gorgeous and generous folks that follow this less than consistent blogger!!
Today I am posting something a little different, it's a post about a fundraiser I'm participating in, and I would love if you could help me out.
I will be participating in the National Parkinson Foundation's Moving Day event in Rochester, NY on October 4, 2015.
Did you know that 50,000-60,000 new cases of Parkinson Disease (or "PD") are diagnosed in the U.S. each year?? That's crazy right? Especially when you take into account the 1,000,000 or so folks that have already been diagnosed.
This is a cause that is very near and dear to my heart, because in December of 2014 a dear friend and coven-mate of mine was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson Disease…he's only 35. We have created a team page for our Coven and we're hoping to raise all sorts of funds…it sure would make Adam a happy camper!
If you are unable to donate at this time, that's ok (keep us in mind though we've got until October) but please consider sharing this post so we can get the word out.
My Personal Fundraising Page is here: Shawna's Moving Day Rochester Page
Any and all funds donated via my page will be added to Team Sangha-Sho's overall goal.
Thank you all so much for reading.
May the Goddess Bless You All
Yup, that's what I called it, Irish Heritage Reclamation Day? Why? Well, because in my humble opinion, St. Patrick was a bit of a douche, and I don't think he should have a day named after him. He is known for 2 things primarily: Driving the snakes out of Ireland, and Bringing Christianity to the Emerald Isle. Well, BOTH of these things are not true. He didn't drive snakes out of Ireland (no snakes ever existed in Ireland…it is widely believed that these 'snakes' were actually Druids)), he converted pagans into Christians but Christianity already existed in Ireland though it was not wide-spread (and his 'mission' to do so may have been fueled by his being held captive in Ireland as a teen. You know a little bit of "I'll show those nasties a thing or two" might have been part of his motivation – yes this is conjecture on my part, but this is my blog, I say what I want, lol).
ANYWAY, St. Patrick's Day is pretty much a U.S. holiday that was celebrated by early Irish immigrants as a way to band together and be proud of their Irish heritage. This is the time when corned beef & cabbage came into play as well. I think it's nice that they found something to pull them together as a community during a time when they were all experiencing much hardship.
So, if the snakes that Pat drove out of Ireland were pagans, why on earth do I celebrate on this day? Well, much like early Irish-Americans, I am quite proud of my Irish heritage. I have always felt that my Irish roots run deep, and have always had an affinity for all things of an Irish-Celtic nature. I have two Irish deities in my personal eclectic pantheon. I've traced the journey of my Great-Grandfather's family as they made their way to North America – first into Canada, and then to the U.S. a few generations later. Also, this is a day that meant a lot to my family on a personal level. You see, my Great-Grandparents were married on March 17 (many moons ago), and while they have both moved on from this life, I still like to celebrate their union.
Yes, it's fun to get schnockered, it's fun to party, I wholly admit to doing both (though not nearly as rowdily as I once did). Partying and drinking, however are secondary or lower on my list of things to celebrate today.
Ol' Pat (who was NOT Irish, and who's color is apparently blue) died on March 17th…ok maybe not cool to celebrate the dudes death, BUT my Pixie-ish spin on THAT would be celebrating the end of his personal crusade to oust the Druids. Today I honor those wise and Holy Ones.
So, I don't refer to today as St. Patrick's Day, as I don't feel he should be celebrated. I call it St. Paddy's Day (As this actually elevates those early Irish-American folks…since they were oft times referred to as Paddy's – yes, also not exactly the nicest term either, but come on, let's reclaim this shit and turn it positive!!), Irish Day, St. Patsy's Day (as in Patsy from Absolutely Fabulous, lol), and any number of things that pop into my little Pixie brain.
Today I honor My Heritage. Today I honor My Family. Today I honor the tenacity of Irish Immigrants. Today I honor the Pagans who died rather than shun their beliefs. Today I honor the Irish Deities. Today I honor Me.
This week's post is really just a bit of a mushy reflection on my part, so please, bare with me.
When I started this path almost 11 years ago, I never thought that a group of local witches would be something I would ever be a part of…let alone one that had an honest to goodness Covenstead.
Most Covens have a place they meet on a regular basis, or the members take turns hosting events at one each others homes. Many times the High Priest or High Priestess will host events at their home. My High Priest and his husband have gone one step further than being hosts…they have mindfully created a Spiritual Home, not only for themselves and the rest of the Coven, but for local Pagan Community as well.
As you can see by the photo that accompanies this post, we have a permanent altar that sits at the center of our designated outdoor ritual space. The circle resides amongst 3 separate gardens; A serene shaded Chinese garden, a whimsical nook we call the Fairy Grotto, and the spectacular herb garden you see in the photo above. When I walk into this glorious park-like setting, I always forget that we're in the middle of suburbia, lol.
It's not just the lovely outdoor setting that makes me love spending time there though. I actually have many reasons. I've known my HP since we were in the 3rd grade together, so hanging out with a life long friend that shares my love of the Goddess is beyond spectacular in and of itself. It is where we come together as a Coven and as a community to celebrate the Turn of the Wheel and venerate the Goddess. It is a place of spiritual education, as we work through our respective degree studies. But, mostly, it is a place where I find comfort simply by being there.
I know that I'm usually all sorts of goofy and make jokes and stuff (I'm a little quirky, it's ok, I know this 😉 )…but talking about the way I feel when I'm there gets me all sorts of sentimental like. It is my sincerest hope that everyone, no matter who they are, or what Path they are on in This Life, has the opportunity to feel the same level of Peace somewhere. Everyone should have that. Someplace to go to take time away from the stresses of modern life, a place where you will not be judged, a place where you always feel welcome and loved. A place to just…Be.
I will stop gushing now, but I really felt the need to just express my gratefulness.
May you all enjoy your weekend…May you all have a Blessed Imbolc…and may you all have someplace that you can feel… the Comfort of a Covenstead.
As I sit in my parents' livingroom, beneath the whirring ceiling fan, I sip my morning coffe and hope that my sore throat goes away. It's miserable to be on vacation and have your body deside NOW is the time for you to get a cold, or feel somehow 'under the weather' (I never did understand that phrase….aren't we all under/in the wearther?? I mean, you can't really escape weather…but I digress).
Despite the scratchy throat, the occassional queasies and a bit of intermittent light-headedness, I am very Grateful to Be. Grateful to be on vacation and away from the stresses that working for a living brings. Grateful to have my handy dandy laptop at my disposal so I can still post the daily words for this round of Sabbat Bingo at Sacred Mists.Grateful to spend time with my parents and my brother. Grateful tosoon be visiting my Great-Aunt & Uncle as well as my cousin and his family. Grateful to be reminded of what matters in This Life.
Why the sudden gush of sentiments that makes one expect to hear Elton John's "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?" . Well, I guess it probably stems from something that happened a couple weeks ago. A dear friend of mine, who I have known since High School, lost his father after a long battle with illness. It hit me pretty hard. I was not close to his parents, but to see and feel the anguish and loss my friend was suffering was beyond difficult. Mike is the first one of us to have a parent pass away….and it made me sad to think that it is a fact of life that will begin to rear it's grotesquely sad head again and again as my friends and I continue to get older.
So, today I am grateful. Grateful to still have my parents, foibles and all, and happy to be able to spend time with them….even if I am feeling less than stellar…'cause I know I'd be feeling a whole lot worse if they weren't around.