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A Special Milestone Celebrated for the First Skilled Nursing Green House Homes in Florida
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on May 12th, 2015
As many of you know celebrations and rituals hold a special place in the philosophy of the Green House model. It's important to take time to honor special goals that have been achieved. John Knox Village did just that in late April when the community celebrated the tree topping ceremony. It's a tradition in the construction industry when a building's structure has reached its maximum height.
Elders and Community leaders were all on hand when the Christmas Palm was placed atop their seven story building, called The Woodlands, which will include 12 Green House homes.
Guest speakers included City of Pompano Beach Mayor, Lamar Fisher who said "John Knox Village has become the leader in healthcare in Pompano Beach. It is the largest healthcare provider and employer in the city. The Woodlands will continue this leadership. It will be the pinnacle of our cultural change." Mr. Fisher made those comments during an earlier groundbreaking event for the project.
The construction of the building is being led by The Weitz Company which has offices in South Florida.
The Woodlands is a $34-plus million project and is expected to open the middle of next year. Each of the top six floors will have two Green House homes with a total of 144 private bedrooms and bathrooms for the Elders.
We congratulate all of those involved with the project and look forward to the grand opening of this very special development!
State Regulators Unanimously Approve Plans to Build the First Green House Homes in Missouri
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on November 8th, 2014
As many of you know, obtaining a Certificate of Need is no easy task these days and that is why we are so pleased with the news from Missouri this week!
The Healthcare Facilities Review Committee of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services unanimously granted an 80-bed Certificate of Need to Focused Senior Communities to build and operate the first Green House homes in that state.
There will be 8 homes built on the campus in Ozark. Each 7,000 square foot home will include a central dining room, hearth room and open kitchen surrounded by just 10 private bedrooms, each with a full private bathroom. A screened porch will lead out to a large patio, with a walkway and gardens between homes.
Al Beamer, CEO, said that his family had researched all the options and found the Green House model to be far and away the best choice.
He said "even with all the studies and pictures and testimonials and national press support, it is not until you walk in the door that you truly 'get' the 'Green House Magic.'
A number of local officials strongly supported the project including State Senator Jay Wasson who referenced the Green House model:
"These homes in many other states are well known for providing residents the dignity, care and compassion they deserve."
Beamer said they plan to break ground in the spring and be open by late fall, 2015. Congratulations to all and we warmly welcome everyone to the Green House family!
Click here to read about the project as reported in local media.
7th Eden Alternative International Conference: Green House Staffers Present on a Wide Variety of Culture Change Issues
By Scott Brown / Posted on May 5th, 2014
The Eden Alternative is celebrating 20 years in 2014! So, the conference last week was time for a celebration and a chance for thought leaders and partners from across the country to share their knowledge and experience with conference participants. Below are highlights from just a few of the sessions led by Green House team members.
Bringing Eden Alternative Principles to Hospice: Treading New Ground
Person-centered care can be a powerful differentiator in competitive hospice markets. The Eden Alternative Philosophy can help hospices deal with financial realities like the increased focus on efficiency dictated by Medicare reimbursement cuts, as well as the employee stress and dissatisfaction caused by these changes. It's also an important way for hospice organizations to demonstrate to staff that they remain focused on their clients and mission, despite the economic challenges.
That was the message from the session entitled: "Bringing Eden Alternative Principles to Hospice: Treading New Ground" presented by Project Guide, Claire Lucas, of The Green House Project. While the basic concepts remain consistent across the care continuum, there are unique challenges incorporating person-centered care in the surprisingly medically focused hospice environment. One challenge is that Elders are located remotely. Another is the short duration of typical hospice care, with most ranging from just a few days to two weeks.
The Eden Alternative philosophy encourages hospice providers to enrich their visits, and add more value. Focusing on simple pleasures, activities and hobbies, and reminiscing are a few ways to keep the focus on the person. Other ways to enhance home hospice visits include aromatherapy, comfort touch and music.
Well-being and the Empowered Workforce: Respect, Relationships, and Growth
The key to empowered staff is coaching leadership according to Project Guide, Marla DeVries and Director, Susan Frazier of the Green House Project staff.
Empowered Staff is the "human architecture" of the Green House home explained Frazier.
In the Green House model, the CNA role is replaced by a versatile worker, called a Shahbaz . They are part of a self-managed work team – a team that is respected for its proximity and deep knowing of Elders. A central component of an empowered workforce is coaching leadership, creating empowerment conditions and always "educating, educating, educating." "While traditionally a leader is focused on managing people," said DeVries, "coaching leaders must embrace people."
With an empowered workforce, the focus is no longer about care-giving, but about care partnership – how staff works together. Clinical support team staff members do not come in to deliver a solution, but to support staff and to work as a coaching partner. While working as a mentor and an educator, a coaching leader must balance support and accountability with team members.
A Community-based Green House Approach: Development Goals, Opportunities and Outcomes
There are unique benefits available to providers and developers teaming up to provide healthcare via decentralized community-based approach.
Using the nation's first community-based Green House project as a case study, Susan Frazier and SWBR Architect, Rob Simonetti, expressed that incorporating senior living options like Green House homes into residential developments is a win-win. Elders benefit because they're not segregated from the community, living in a real home, with a normalized environment and routine, and being part of a real community.
Incorporating Green House homes into developments also benefits the developer. It enhances community support and helps them achieve construction efficiencies. It's also a significant market differentiator – the Green House model is very attractive and seen as a positive addition to a development. "Green House homes make it easier for developers to sell market rate housing," according to Simonetti. Part of the attraction is buyers who are anticipating a future need, either for themselves or a loved one.
First Green House Homes in Minnesota Set to Open in June
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on March 11th, 2014
It's been a long winter, but that hasn't stopped construction crews in Mankato, Minnesota! The assisted living Green House homes, called Water's Edge, are slated to be open within three months.
They are being developed and operated by Grace Senior Services. The owners, Brad and Heather Bass, have been committed to serving Elders for many years. In fact, they started their journey by opening an adult day service in their home 17 years ago. They currently have several senior housing cooperatives, two assisted living communities, and an adult foster care program.
Brad and Heather are most excited about bringing The Green House model to Minnesota. The new Director of Operations for Water's Edge, Brooke Olson will be welcoming 36 Elders to the homes when they open. Of course, we're all hopeful that by June the snow will have melted and the flowers will be blooming!
A Pre-Conference Intensive for Shahbazim at The 6th Annual Green House Meeting and Celebration: A Day to Explore the Coordinator Roles and Relational Coordination in Green House Homes
By Anna Ortigara / Posted on September 11th, 2013
On the day a Green House home opens the Shahbazim become the managers of the home as well as partners to the Elders. It requires a deep understanding of the systems that support the home. The core functions include the Food, Scheduling, Care, Team, and Housekeeping systems and the Coordinator Roles each Shahbaz fills on a rotating basis. These functions are the guts of the home and to be successfully carried out require strong relationships and excellent communication. If the systems work, the days go smoothly. Without good systems, respectful relationships and high communication it can be a rocky road!
This preconference day will explore the Coordinator Roles and the core systems around Food, Scheduling and Care. It will ask participants to identify what makes for good relational coordination; meaning shared vision, shared knowledge and mutual respect. The best thinking and lessons learned will be the basis for conversations on how to sharpen and improve the core systems and relationships of the homes.
If you are a Shahbaz at an open or soon to be open Green House home, plan on attending THE GREEN HOUSE® Annual Meeting and Celebration in Boston on November 18th. Leave with new ideas, new insights and many new friends. Register at the Peer Network website. For more information about the program contact email@example.com
Please note: The Green House Annual Meeting & Celebration is an event exclusively available to Green House adopters for sharing, learning, and celebrating the growth of The Green House model. The Annual Meeting honors organizations for their commitment to create real home, empowered staff, and meaningful lives for elders. Sessions provide peers with an opportunity to reflect on lessons learned, revisit skills for coaching leaders, and build relationships to support sustainable change
Sunshine State to Welcome the First Skilled Nursing Green House Homes at John Knox Village
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on May 21st, 2013
These are definitely exciting times at John Knox Village in Pompano Beach, Florida! Last week their Board of Directors approved the development of THE GREEN HOUSE® residences at the Village and renovations to their current Health Center.
"This project ensures our ability to fulfill our health care contract with our residents at the level and quality of care they expect from us," said Board Chairman William Knibloe, II. "Further, it provides for our employees the opportunity to be part of the most important development and progressive care giving to seniors existing today."
The $34-plus million project will be located on the northwest corner of The Village's 65-acre campus. There will be seven floors, with the main floor featuring a community area for all Elders. The other six floors will each have two Green House homes. Each home will have 12 private bedrooms and bathrooms, plus a living area and kitchen.
Groundbreaking is slated for July, with the first Elders moving in October 2015.
Click here to read more about this development!
Despite the Weather…Ground is Broken for the First Skilled Nursing Green House homes in Minnesota
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on May 13th, 2013
We all know how crazy the weather has been this past winter…but who would have thought snowflakes would fall on a May 1st groundbreaking ceremony? Well, that's exactly what greeted the guests for the Episcopal Homes of Minnesota ceremony to launch the construction of six Green House homes on their campus.
The $45 million project will provide a variety of living options for Elders including the skilled nursing services in the Green House homes which will be called "Episcopal Church Home – The Gardens". Episcopal Homes has been providing house and care for Elder for more than 100 years in St. Paul, Minnesota. The homes are slated to be open in late 2014.
We all know how important nature is to all of us, especially our Elders in Green House homes…so our friends at Episcopal Homes plan to do something special with the ground flung into that wheelbarrow. It will be saved and used in the future greenspace and two-story indoor garden. Such a wonderful and thoughtful idea!
Read more about the project. Then tell us what you think!
The 6th Eden Alternative International Conference
By hmarshall / Posted on June 5th, 2012
The conference lobby was buzzing with excitement as individuals gathered for the 6th Eden Alternative International Conference. Even as a newcomer to this event, it was evident that everyone was deeply connected both personally and professionally. It felt like a large family reunion, and in no time, I was swept up in all the enthusiasm and camaraderie.
I have been pondering how to capture my experience but have found it very difficult to neatly package three powerful and enlightening days into one blog. I anticipated I would meet extraordinary people, but I never imagined every person I met to leave such a lasting impression. For instance, I met Connie Goldman, a former staff member of National Public Radio and life-long advocate of changing society's perception on aging. "We all want to live a long life," she stated during the conference. "However, no one wants to age. What people don't understand is that being older is the best time of your life or at least it can be." I realized I was surrounded by people tirelessly working to make this a reality.
The conference was packed with educational sessions, panels, an exhibitor booth, and plenty of convivium and celebration. Information ranged from international growth to intergenerational opportunities. The conference also illuminated how the Eden philosophy and principles thrive in The Green House model. It was a reminder that relationships are the basis of the work we do and will continue to guide our work in the future.
Community integrated Green House homes provide a New York neighborhood with something special…licensed nursing home care
By Mary Hopfner-Thomas / Posted on May 2nd, 2012
It takes a variety of homes to make up a neighborhood—so why not build Green House homes in existing communities? There are those who would question whether it's possible…but in upstate New York it's proving to be a wonderful addition to the neighborhood and a shining example of skilled nursing home care.
While many of us would clearly prefer home and community-based care, it's estimated that 1.2 million Americans currently live in institutional facilities. This rings especially true for low-income elders and others who lack access to affordable nursing services in their area.
Green House homes offer elders a place where autonomy and choice are honored, direct skilled nursing care is a priority, and they have more satisfying and meaningful lives, work and relationships. When the home is located within a neighborhood—it also meets that desire for community-based services.
St. John's Home in Rochester, New York opened the first two community-integrated Green House homes two months ago and will part of an evaluation of the concept over the next three years.
CLICK HERE to read the full story.
Tell us what you think below!
Green House Model and the Eden Alternative: Setting the stage for people to grow
By ghblog / Posted on March 1st, 2012
By Judith Meyers-Thomas
When I gave birth to my first child I had no idea that it would be a lesson in empowerment. Haleigh Jane, who is just about to turn 18, was born with Otahara Syndrome. In the simplest terms, her brain will never develop past that of an infant. We were told she would never live to six months. Two and a half years later, my second daughter was born with the same condition. The doctors who had initially told us it was not a genetic condition, apologetically informed us they were wrong.
For years I accepted the opinions of the almost constant parade of doctors, therapists and counselors as they attempted to tell me what was best for my daughters. It is difficult for me to admit that I went along with many of those suggestions because I did not trust that I might actually understand more about my precious girls than they did. After all, they were the "professionals". When I finally found the courage to stand up and say "no", the sense of empowerment that I experienced was life altering.
Websters dictionary would have you believe that empowerment is something that is bestowed upon us. I think they are wrong. Empowerment comes from within. When you accept who you are at this moment in your life; when you can be true to yourself, you will find that the power you are looking for is right there inside of you. Look, for example, at Mother Theresa. She lived and worked within the confines of a male dominated bureaucracy that is certainly not known for empowering women and yet she followed her heart and found strength and comfort in helping those most in need. She made a difference.
In the Eden Alternative and Green House models we set the stage for people to grow. We encourage the many women (and men) who live and work there to be engaged; to be empowered. Principle 8 states:
"An Elder-centered community honors it's Elders by de-emphasizing top-down bureaucratic authority, seeking instead to place the maximum possible decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or the hands closest to them."
The message is clear. The table is set. Accept where you are in life. Find joy in the people who surround you and you will find the strength to do what needs to be done. The power you are looking for is right there inside you!
"Anything you want to ask a teacher, ask yourself and wait for the answer in silence." – Byron Katie –
THRIVE Research – What does this mean for Green House Homes?
By ghblog / Posted on January 26th, 2012
THRIVE Research – What does this mean for Green House Homes?
You've probably heard about the THRIVE research studies aimed at learning more about how the Green House model works and how it differs from other models of care. You might be curious what this means for the Green House projects over the next few years.
Many of the Green House projects will be getting calls over the next year to discuss participation. Research team members from Pioneer Network, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of North Carolina, and Health Management Strategies will be contacting several projects to ask them to participate in one or more parts of the study.
Here are some terms you might hear or see:
Questionnaires: These are paper or electronic surveys staff complete on a topic.
Site Visit: Several Green House projects will be asked to host a visit by a small team of friendly researchers (usually 2-4 people). The purpose of the visit is to collect information on what life is like in the Green House homes for shabhazim and elders and how care is provided.
Interviews: Interviews are one way researchers get to know details about how things work in the Green House homes. Interviewees will be asked questions that allow them to tell stories and share their experiences.
What is a site visit like?
Enjoyable ! A site visit from the research team is not like a visit from state regulators, in that the intent is to learn and not to evaluate. It's a time for researchers to learn about what life and care is like in a Green House, and for Green House staff, shabhazim, and elders to have the opportunity to contribute to what is being learned.
Lori Kinney, Green House Guide at Lebanon Valley Brethren Home, has experienced a few site visits from research teams. "The research team's communication was great, whether it was through emails or phone conversations. The visits went well… Since we, staff and elders, were prepared for the visits from the research team, things moved along swiftly and elders always appreciate visits from 'new' people that enjoy listening and talking with them."
The researchers understand that the Green Houses are the elders' homes and intend to minimize disruption as much as possible. The researchers are flexible and know things can "pop up" that make it difficult for staff to attend to the research needs during the visit. Elder's needs are always the top priority.
The research team looks forward to working with the Green House homes! Questions about THRIVE can be directed to Lauren Cohen (email@example.com or 919-843-8874).
The THRIVE research studies are funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.


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At the office of Dan Howard, we believe in providing our patients with the highest quality of personalized dental care. When you visit our practice, our experienced dentist and team take the time to get to know you as an individual, taking an interest in your life along with in your oral health and smile. We want you to feel comfortable in our office, and work hard to maintain a caring atmosphere as well as a state-of-the-art facility. Please use the links below to get to know us and to familiarize yourself with our office prior to your appointment.
If you have any questions, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel K. Howard, please contact our office at 308-247-3381.
We are proud to provide quality dental care in Morrill, Nebraska, and surrounding areas, including Scottsbluff, Gering, Mitchell, Kimball, Alliance, and Hemingford, Nebraska. We also see patients from Torrington, Lingle and Wheatland, WY. We are excited to help you care for your smile!

subset: commoncrawl


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Barry M Showgirl Mascara
Honestly, at £4.99 a pop, I can't tell the difference the new Barry M Showgirl Mascara and a premium mascara. And that's probably because there really isn't any difference.
The bottom one is Extra Lengthening – I've tried it on my bottom lashes and wow! They look double the length! It's got a short bristled brush that gives beautiful spiked and definined lashes. The pink tubed mascara is Extra Volume and I had to call in a volunteer for this one but just like Extra Lengthening, it's a high performer.
Both Barry M Showgirl Mascara formulas claim an 8 hour wear but I'm afraid I haven't put that to the test yet. They're launching on 24th September into Superdrug and 1st October into Boots.
*all products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
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6 comments
Never tried any Barry M except for their nail polishes, so I'm intrigued. I have yet to find my perfect mascara. I'll give this a try 🙂
Absolutely love the sound of this and the packaging looks pretty similar to the Fairy Drops mascara which is also on my to-try list!
I've never been pleased with a Barry M makeup product, so you giving this such a good review is really promising!
Hi Jane, I often buy products as result of reading your reviews and so dutifully trotted off to Boots to buy this one. I went for the pink 'Volumising' option and am sorry to tell you I thought it was very disappointing indeed. It really only tinted my lashes blacks and added no volume whatsoever despite multiple applications. Maybe the silver one is better but I think you're volunteer was a bit off on this one. There are plenty of budget mascaras that do a much better job than this – not least the new Rimmel 'Wonder'full' one. I also think Max Factor and Maybelline outstrip the quality of these by a mile – maybe a few quid more but I'd say it's a few quid well spent. Agree with you entirely that 'premium' mascaras are a bit of a swizz on the whole though.
Love the blog – read everyday.


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Bikini Mania
June is coming and I start my shopping of bikinis! Every year I say to myself to buy only one, but it always ends up that I am filled with so many new colorful bikini. I love bikinis of H&M, I do not know how it is possible, but in return well off and most are very cheap !! This green was definitely my best purchase, like too and if I think about the fact that it costs 10 Euros in total even consider it a bargain. I leave a list of bikini interesting that now keep an eye on for some time ... let me know what you think and what your favorite!


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Latest Visual Technology for Your Mission
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Mission Prescription Eyewear has a range of solutions to help you achieve your mission. Manufactured exclusively by Torga Optical in our state of the art lens laboratory in Cape Town, so you get the Latest Technology Visual Solutions with Great no-middleman deals to suit your need.


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The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken; 488 pages
A disease is sweeping across the United States. It only affects children and there are only two outcomes: death or the development of abilities, abilities that no human should possess. Ruby was 10 when she was taken to a "rehabilitation camp". Six years later, with her true abilities about to be discovered, she is broken out. But the people who broke her out aren't quite who they seemed. Now, stuck in a world that considers her a freak, Ruby must join with the only people she can, other kids like her.
My thoughts:
I love it when authors write about characters that are teenagers and they actually act like teenagers. The main characters in this book are kids that have developed unnatural abilities and were taken away from their families. They actually acted like scared kids who have gone through a tragedy and don't know what to do.
Ruby was taken from her family when she was 10 and then was told how awful she was for the next 6 years which makes her timid and terrified. Liam tries to act like a leader but you can tell he's just as clueless as the rest of them. It is what makes reading this book so good.
It also got off to such a fast start and it didn't feel like a total info dump. I thought the story developed at such a great pace! This is how you should write the first book in a series. Get to know the characters, set the scene, set up the major plot line. I honestly loved everything about this book. I really can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Goodreads Challenge: 33/105
Next review: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher


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I transplanted jalapeno, bell peppers, and squash into individual pots I got from Thompson and Morgan. I planted more cucumber straight 8 seedlings into the ground and gave them a good watering. I also planted some tomato plants I had sitting on our fence. I planted a lady bug hybrid tomato and also a gardener's delight. I received the lady bug tomato seeds from a friend from you grow girl, which is a garden forum I actively visit on a daily basis. There, you can exchange various seeds you have for other seeds you don't have! It's been great fun.
French Filet Bean Sprout(click to enlarge)
Oh, on the bean front. I have 3 sproutages from a French Filet and a Top crop variety. Eek. I was super excited. I also see some romano bean sprouting. But I really wanted the purple peacock beans to sprout. I want to have purple beans for the summer. I'm crossing my fingers for those! Please sprout…please sprout…
My flower seedlings are doing well too. The stocks are growing slowly but surely. My nicotiana seeds are growing like mad. They've been crowded in a salsa container and I plan on planting them out soon. I have them on my west facing windowsill so they can get some real sun and get acclimated to the harsh sun. I'll eventually take them out and slowly get them used to the outside weather. The weather here has been wonderful. It's going to get into the high 70s and maybe 80s soon. I love spring!
Yesterday, I planted some lunaria(aka money plant or honesty plants) seeds into a 9 pack. These are biennels and they'll grow the first year and flower the next. They look like delicate little silver dollars. They would look great in flower arrangements or dried and put in a nice vase. I have tons of these seeds so if it doesn't germinate this time, I can keep trying.
My hydrangea plant is now forming tiny little flower buds. I thought I had killed it since during the winter, it was woody but I noticed other people's hydrangeas did that too so I shouldn't be alarmed. I kept it outside, watered occasionally and covered it during frosts and all that hard work paid off since it's still alive and budding! Yippee.
Well, that's all for now folks. Happy Gardening. Please don't forget to sign up to get email updates on my blog! click here to subscribe!


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I think you need to look into better hardware.
Galaxy S2. One of the many problems with it. You still haven't addressed the issue that there shouldn't be a need for an SD card in the first place.
Edit: I mean, arguing that there is an SD card slot reminds me of this:
1) You weren't arguing with me, I was commenting I haven't seen a problem where an SD card unseats, on anything.
2) Your argument is nonsense, and comic inapplicable. You explain to me why a media device shouldn't be expandable. Does it come with infinite space? No? Then explain.
Because memory is so cheap a $300 device should have far more than 64 GBs of space. This is a 256GB external SSD that costs $300 when not on sale. And that's retail price, not manufacturer. The paltry 64GBs of space Pono is selling? Probably costs them around $40 to acquire, seeing as the price for a 64GB SSD is $80.
What Pono is doing here is completely and successfully distracting you. "But you can have an SD card!" Yes, you can. You can spend extra money so they can increase a vast profit margin on their MP3 device. From the sound of it, you've bought into the distraction with hook, line, and sinker. My 120GB Zune cost less than the Pono and has double the space ... 5 years ago.
tl:dr— for the same price, the Pono could easily have 256 GB worth of storage.
You didn't answer my point, you are just ranting about the price to memory ratio. Which is ridiculous, but not what you said. You said arguing for an SD card was like arguing for antivirus software on voting machines, which is patently incorrect. Arguing against an SD card is arguing against expandable storage and why would you do that, regardless of initial capacity?
Because, as I've said, and pointed out repeatedly, you shouldn't need to have it. The crux of the debate thus far has been "well yeah, it's small, but you can expand it." You shouldn't need to. When I buy an MP3 device, my dream isn't "how much can I add to this since it's so small" but "this will hold everything I need and is future-proofed." If the device had an SD slot but also had a 256GB drive, no one would care. Then again, most wouldn't be mentioning the SD slot because the majority wouldn't ever need it.
But here, it's being touted as the device's saving answer to it's low storage. It's selling a cheap promise. "Buy our $300 dollar device. Don't worry that it's small, you can expand it!" And all the while, they're hoping that you won't stop to consider that you'll have to drop another $120 on that expandable memory, while they save the same amount. It's a distraction.


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Wait until you see this awesome polish combo I have to share!
Let me start with Deborah Lippman Waking Up In Vegas. Waking Up In Vegas was one of the first DLs that I purchased. I love a grey polish and this one is gorgeous! The polish is described as a putty grey. When I look at this polish I see some taupe undertones that make it really unique. Application is easy and opaque in 2 coats. I overloaded my brush on a couple nails and ended up with some bubbles, my fault.
Now for the fun stuff! I recently purchased a bottle of Whosits and Whatsits Galore. This is my first Once Upon A Polish...polish and I am pleasantly surprised with how much I liked it. To be honest, it was an impulse purchase, and those don't always turn out good!
This is a bottle full of red and green matte glitter, black squares and white hexes. I love this combo! I added 1 coat to Waking Up In Vegas and the 1 coat was awesome! It added that extra pop to the mani, but you could add another coat if you really want the glitter to stand out.
I added 2 coats of HK Girl, which smoothed it out.
I am very pleased with this purchase and can't wait to try it with other color combos!
You can purchase this polish and others at Kimberly's Etsy Store and check out her Facebook page for shop updates.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Deborah Lippman Waking Up In Vegas and Once Upon A Polish Whosits and Whatsits Galore
11 comments:
Anything Little Mermaid related has my heart :) great combo!ReplyDelete
Wow, that's a really beautiful combination! Love it :DReplyDelete
I love Waking up in Vegas. The perfect neutral!ReplyDelete
I love it! It's a unique glitter, and those are getting harder to come by.ReplyDelete
That's a very interesting mix of glitters. On the grey it reminds me a little bit of when there's snow on the TV screen :)ReplyDelete
wow i love all those glitters! gorgeous!ReplyDelete
Wow This cOmbination is very beautifulReplyDelete
This is so pretty! It reminds me of my Granny's kitchen table.ReplyDelete
What a fabulous combination :)ReplyDelete
Ohhh I freaking love this combo!!ReplyDelete
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Sunday, March 28, 2010
SSSC62 Just Because
Good Sunday Morning Peeps!!! Time for another Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge!
I am super excited about this sketch because Karen chose a card of mine to base the sketch on. You can see my original card here.
This is the sketch:
The base of my card is rose red card stock. I followed that with certainly celery and then pretty in pink card stock. It is very hard to believe that I used NO DS paper on this one.
My original card had a large tag for the focal point and I guess I couldn't break that style because I made this one the same. The main image is from the SU stamp set "Close as a Memory". I inked it up with my markers in rose red, pretty in pink and certainly celery and then used my aqua painter to mix the colors around a bit. The sentiment comes from the retired "Best Yet" stamp set.
OK, let's see what the rest of the Sweet Sunday Sketch Team has in store for us this week:
Karen-the Sweetest Thing
Jen-JenTapler Designs
Karen-Paper Playhouse
Lynn-The Queen's Scene
Nancy-iStamp is taking the month off but go by her blog anyway.
and joining us this week is the fabulous and uber talented:
Joanne Basile
Well, thank you for stopping by today and HAPPY STAMPING!!!
15 comments:
- Sue said...
stunning layout, love both of the cards, your colour choice is very elegant! :)
- March 28, 2010 at 3:34 AM
- Beverly G said...
Cool sketch, your team members came up with some neat creations.
- March 28, 2010 at 4:27 AM
- Dawn Easton said...
Fantastic, Vicki! I loved your first card and this one is just as pretty! Great layout!
- March 28, 2010 at 7:03 AM
- Lynn Put said...
Vicki this is beautiful!!! I love this color combo with the pretty stamped flowers and little pearls!
Thanks for a great sketch!
- March 28, 2010 at 8:15 AM
- Unknown said...
Thanks for your FUN sketch this week, I loved it!
What a beautiful card! No DP... gasp, that would be very very hard for me!
- March 28, 2010 at 9:45 AM
- Nancy L. said...
your sketch is so pretty! and your card is gorgeous!!
- March 28, 2010 at 10:41 AM
- Karen Motz said...
Gorgeous Vicki! The little pearls add so much to the flowers!!
- March 28, 2010 at 11:24 AM
- Silke Ledlow said...
Simply gorgeous card and take on the Sketch!!! The colors are so soft and pretty!!! The pearls are a fab touch :) !!! Hugs ~S~
- March 28, 2010 at 12:52 PM
- Pam Speidel said...
This is absolutely BEAUTIFUL Vicki! I love the little pearls in the center of the flowers and you know this is one of my fav sets! :) Fabulous sketch and both of your cards are outstanding! Smiles, Pam :)
- March 28, 2010 at 1:22 PM
- Marisa said...
Absolutely LOVE this card, Vicki!! The colorus are fabulous and the pearls the perfect touch. Congrats on the sketch :D
- March 28, 2010 at 3:28 PM
- Stacey Schafer said...
so pretty, vicki!
- March 28, 2010 at 10:32 PM
- Karen Giron said...
Oh Vicki, this is beautiful!! I loved working with this sketch and I'm in love with your card! The soft flowers and the pearl centers are incredible. Love it!
- March 29, 2010 at 10:39 AM
- Shannon Willis said...
Vicki, it is beautiful. I was going to use that same stamp on my card. The embellishments are perfect.
- March 29, 2010 at 3:54 PM
- Christina said...
This card is so lovely! This sketch was a real challenge for me, but you make it look so elegant. Beautiful job!
- March 30, 2010 at 9:57 AM
- Jenny Gropp said...
Crisp, Clean lines --- lovely!!!!
- March 31, 2010 at 8:14 AM


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Bust a move on the dance floor at Oakland's Yoshi's while the Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra perform. The group's lively latin jazz and salsa sound is sure to get you movin', at either the 8 p.m. or the 10 p.m. shows. Get tickets here.
Ever wanted to see a murder mystery musical where one actor plays 13 suspects? You're in luck! Just catch the West Coast premiere of "Murder for Two," a hilarious new musical based on a book. Get tickets for Wednesday's 7 p.m. show at San Francisco's Eureka Theater.


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My buddy Adam over at the Fragments of Silicon podcast recently had recurring guest Stephen Kick of Night Dive Studios on to discuss new releases and what's coming soon. Night Dive's mission is making sure classic video games are never abandoned or forgotten, and are playable out of the box.
Adam gave me a heads up that the episode (Season 4, Episode 20) had some cool announcements about revived classic games. I listen to FOS pretty often anyway but made sure to give this episode a listen and take some notes for all you classic game junkies out there. Confession: I am a classic game junkie.
Enjoy the notes / recap!
Update: After my initial post, Adam pointed out that one thing I had missed was that Night Dive is considering a re-release of survival horror puzzle adventure game D (1995).
Night Dive recently released Noctropolis (originally from 1994). Doing ok, about as good as expected. Not a well known adventure game but has dedicated following.
Getting up to speed with GOG Galaxy's features is keeping them from releasing a couple of games (including Noctropolis on GOG for the moment).
Night Dive is about to release an adventure game called Timelapse (1996), an older point and click adventure from when a lot of adventure games were called "Myst clones." Timelapse has an archaeologist arriving on Easter Island and discovering why ancient civilizations disappeared.
Azrael's Tear looked into briefly by Night Dive Studios but no progress made.
Old FASA Games: Mechwarrior, Mech Commander, etc? Night Dive has looked into them but the rights are spread across several entities.
Night Dive is currently in "development mode", which means they are working through and reviewing licenses they have already acquired rather than pursuing a lot of new stuff.
They did manage to track down owner of Capcom catalog. Some rare games a lot of people aren't aware of.
Stephen feels its important to keep old games alive not just for the money. What if all pre-Blu Ray movies were gone in the digital age? A loose analogy to the Criterion Collection of movies is made.
Retroism partnership is releasing a couple of games: M1A1 Abrams Tank Simulator (1989) and World War II GI (1998), which is the sequel to NAM (1998).
Starlord (1993) strategy game also coming soon. The original box art actually almost looks like Chris Pratt. Will there be mass panic and confusion??? Adam feels its creepy.
System Shock Enhanced Edition now on both GOG and Steam. Rights transferred when they bought System Shock 2. They spoke with people in modding community and found a modder who had solved how to run game natively in Windows and support for mouse look, bug fixes, higher resolutions, etc. They signed modder on and put him in charge of development for Enhanced Edition. Doing really well.
Steam achievements in classic games can be a touchy subject (System Shock Enhanced Edition does not have achievements). Some people by games solely for the achievements. Some gamers feel very strongly about it detracting from the "pure" experience of playing / replaying a classic game.
Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (1997, first game in series) coming out. Night Dive took elements from PC and N64 versions to create "definitive" version. For example, they used the better soundtrack. Turok was one of the first 3D accelerated games Stephen played. The fog remains. You can't have Turok without the fog! Turok 1 out around holiday, Turok 2 soon after that. Different engines plus Turok 2 has multiplayer. Night Dive has been working on Turok about 4-5 months (in addition to a dev working on it before that as a personal project). Not ready to announce price yet.
Night Dive are developers for Xbox and Playstation but are currently not developing any projects with them yet. They are waiting on success of certain PC games. Turok might be a good trial run for console development.
They are not Nintendo certified. Stephen says Wii U brings new things to the table but he has not personally used one.
Has Night Dive looked into reviving games from other computer platforms, like C64, Atari, etc? Answer is not really but mainly because of unfamiarility with platforms, so many DOS and Windows games to focus on. Not out of realm of possibility but would have to be the right title.
They did look at M.U.L.E. (1983) but felt it would almost be a disservice to release it in its original state given how much of a classic it is. Maybe revisit thinking about a remake.
Given Turok and Shadowman, any other Acclaim games? Yes, Good chance of updated version of Forsaken (1998). Acclaim's version of Descent but "way prettier".
Last announcement: more requests for a game called Machines Wired For War (1999) than any other game but Stephen had never heard of it. You build a foundry and then construct robots that become your units in an RTS game. They are in contact with original creator and it would be a passion project if they can bring it back.
Maybe a couple of more months before any more announcements from Night Dive Studios.
Remainder of the episode was the weekly topic of discussion: "Gametap" (one of the first digital game distribution services on PC).


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Hover over main image to zoom
These beautiful Communion Boxes are made in India from artisans experienced in the process of a popular local handicraft called Lac. The wonderful intricate designs and materials used are a time-honored tradition and each item is a unique work of art. Chose from circle, oval, and square. Each sold separately.


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MacGruber squares off against Shrek Forever After this weekend at the box office, but its star and director aren't intimidated by a franchise that's made more than $2.2 billion in ticket sales, worldwide. MacGruber's star Will Forte joked, "We will take those f—ers down!" Director Jorma Taccone quickly added with heavy sarcasm, "Our movie is probably gonna do better than Shrek. Right? Let's be honest." More on that, in a bit.
Collider caught up with Forte, Taccone and screenwriter John Solomon at the film's press day. Hit the jump for the roundtable's full audio, along with highlights and plenty of spoilers, including Forte's desire to do a nude scene with celery, who stole that used vegetable afterward and the gracious gesture by MacGyver star Richard Dean Anderson.
MacGruber aims to honor, more than mock 1980's action movies. The filmmaker's conceit is to make a straight genre film with the SNL character dropped in the middle to provide comic relief. However, the premise provides plenty of winks and nods to the laughably tired conventions. A wealthy villain named Dieter Von Cunth (played by Val Kilmer who sends up a Marked For Death-era Steven Seagal) brings a nuclear weapon into the US to blow up the Capitol during a State Of The Union address. The military sends representatives to find the hero, long presumed dead, and talk him back into action (a la Richard Crenna's "Col. Trautman" character in the Rambo films). Team building follows and the hunt is on.
While the character started on the recurring SNL skits, talk of a film really kicked in after Pepsi's wildly popular Super Bowl campaign that featured the original MacGyver (Richard Dean Anderson) as MacGruber's father. Lorne Michaels got his young staff to work & 15 months later, the film is opening.
Now that you're up to date, check out the highlights:
-Forte professed his love for the 1983 Chuck Norris film Lone Wolf McQuade. He even has a poster for the MacGruber forerunner hanging in his office. It is unsigned, but not for a lack of desire.
-Taccone said of their unconventional choice to avoid a straight satire, "When we were first writing the movie, we were constantly having to check ourselves and not make it too goofy, or too comedy-esque, in terms of our choices… because we really wanted this to be, like our ode to like, an 80's action movie." As the writing team (Forte, Taccone and Solomon) re-watched films from the era, they found a lot of comedy, including "the way villains talk." They actually held off on using those devices, "because it would feel like a comedy choice." Ultimately, they "wanted to basically keep this character (MacGruber) that we really loved … and put him into a real action movie."
-Forte relayed that the film is not a carbon copy of the SNL interstitial that started it all. He said, "People, I think, automatically assume that it's just gonna be the sketch over and over again for 90 minutes and I think they'll be pleasantly surprised." Taccone said, "We were desperately trying to avoid that, at all costs." Forte added, "we didn't want to write that & we wouldn't want to see that."
-Most physically humiliating scene in the film for Forte? "You could pick about 20 things." He started with, "I had to be naked and do something with a piece of celery (that) my mom will be haunted by for a long time, because she was on the set." Taccone said, "it was amazing how many times you turned around in this movie and saw Will completely naked with, like, a nut sack protector on. It was impressive how many times that happened. At least five." Most surprisingly, they admitted that someone who worked close to the set actually stole the used celery.
-The offending (or offended?) celery stalk was initially supposed to be a carrot. Taccone said "I don't even know what our original inspiration for that was," but they changed it "because celery seemed more like the plume of a peacock."
– When asked how he would handle diffusing a bomb, Forte disclosed, "I would take off running." Is he crafty in general? MacGruber's alter ego pondered the question for a few moments before replying with a simple, "No."
-Forte admitted his sex scene provided Kristen Wiig with a pretty unwelcome birthday gift. He laughed, "she was so covered in my sweat, at the end of that sex scene" that he "felt bad for her, 'cause it was her birthday and nobody deserves that … That's like 'you murdered somebody. You know, send Will over to sweat on you," as Taccone added, "and make noises."
-Forte doubted his initial pitch for the sketch at SNL. He thought, "This is just dumb … And then, it went very well at the table read … So at that point, I started thinking, 'Oh, maybe they'll give us a chance to make it … You would never think from seeing that first sketch, 'Oh, eventually we'll be making a movie.'" Even when Executive Producer Lorne Michaels approached them about the film, Forte said, "We still were like, 'Oh, really?'" He added, they were very happy with how the script and film turned out. Forte was incredibly humble about the whole experience. He said, "There was no part of us that felt like we deserve to be in this situation … We are so excited to be given this opportunity."
– Taccone described the writing process. He said, "After the initial shock of, like, 'what are we gonna do?'… We were left with this character that we loved who is this insanely flawed, narcissistic, slightly homophobic, slightly racist, alcoholic … This character that we loved because he was somehow lovable, beyond his flaws." They had free reign and decided to make it an action film, which "allowed us to (find a) structure and put him into all these crazy situations that you would never think he should be in."
-They side-stepped any controversy about the threatened lawsuit by MacGyver's creator Lee Zlotoff. When asked whether they approached Richard Dean Anderson (who played MacGyver on the series), Taccone said, "At one point there was a scene that we wrote where there was a MacGruber father." He continued, "We shot this so fast that there was no real time for it."
– MacGyver star Richard Dean Anderson appears to have nothing but love for the filmmakers. Taccone said Anderson e-mailed Forte this week, to wish him luck with the movie. Forte followed with a story of the commercial shoot where Anderson played MacGruber's father. He said, "It was the first time we actually had a chance to actually meet him and see what he felt about the sketch and it was so nice to get his blessing because he had seen it (and liked it). It was really, really nice 'cause he is a tremendous guy and we're huge fans of his."
-Now more on that Shrek pronouncement from earlier. Asked for a MacGruber-like statement about going against the billion-dollar Shrek franchise (including SNL alums Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy), Forte said "Oh, we are gonna take those f—ers down!" When the laughter died down, Forte continued, "No. We're huge fans of Shrek … We hope (MacGruber) does well. (More laughter). Taccone followed, in a joking tone, "Our movie is probably gonna do better than Shrek. Right? Let's be honest. They made $120 million last time." Forte interrupted to say, "I can live with however it does at the box office because we made the movie we wanted to make and we are very excited. Like, that doesn't happen very often. So, I hope it does well. If it doesn't, I can live with myself, because I really have a great amount of pride in this movie."


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We have a great beginning sewing courses happening right now. If you're a new sewer or know someone who is interested in learning to sew this is the online class for you. Ask yourself these questions:
- Have you always wanted to learn how to sew?
- Are you looking to refresh your skills? Maybe you've never learned the proper techniques.
- Is it time to take your sewing to the next level?
Did you answer yes to any of them? Then get your fashion on, and learn to start sewing your own custom-fit wardrobe!
In Introduction to Sewing, you'll learn the basics of sewing including various stitches and seam finishes, you'll build a solid sewing foundation, and you'll complete two simple projects: a drawstring bag and a zippered pouch. Plus, you'll learn how to sew 3 different types of skirts: gathered, pencil and A-line. You'll also learn stitches and seam finishes, pattern basics and what and how to use interfacing, darts and more.
The best part? It doesn't matter if you've never touched a sewing machine before. And if you've been sewing for years, we'll show you how to correct those bad habits and get better-looking finished projects!
Once you've established the proper foundation, you'll then learn how to properly prepare fabric for garment sewing, how to work with a pattern, and much more.
Who should sign-up?
- Beginners who have never touched a sewing machine before
- Experienced sewers who were never taught the proper way of sewing
- Self-taught sewers looking to improve their garments and create clothes that look professionally sewn
- Anyone interested in refreshing their skills
- Anyone who wants to learn proper sewing techniques
- Anyone comfortable with sewing basics who wants to now sew clothes
- Learn how to make clothes from scratch
- Anyone looking to take their sewing to the next level


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The term 'Payroll' encompasses every employee of a company who receives a regular wage or other compensation. Some employees may be paid steady salary while others get paid for hours worked or on commission.
Regular deductions such as taxes, advances, loss of pay, medical insurance, union dues, and charitable contributions and so on are then categorized and subtracted. The remaining balance is then converted to a check and becomes the employee's 'Net Pay' for that time period.
Payroll process is mainly dependent on few factors which are required for the processing. Time-sheets provide us, the no. of hours being worked by the employee so that his salary can be calculated accordingly.
Some employees work on commission basis, for them the calculations will be based on the commissions earned in that particular period for which the payroll is being run.
As an employer, you are responsible for
- Paying your employees as agreed for the work they have done, and paying overtime appropriately.
- Filing payroll tax reports with the IRS and state agencies within deadlines.
- Withholding appropriate taxes from employees and paying these taxes.
- Setting aside funds to pay your portion of payroll taxes and paying these taxes.
~ Satish


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Having a well-stocked, rural retreat does no good if you aren't able to get there when it hits the fan. Of course, most of us can't walk around with all of our gear on our backs every day, either. What is a prepper to do? A BOV (bug out vehicle) with a GHB (get home bag) are great. I have a GHB in my daily driver that I am also outfitting as a BOV. But what if I am not near my truck? Maybe I'm in my office, or out in the city conducting business... Maybe I'm just out to dinner with the wife.
Things happen, that's why we prepare. I just put together a small, discrete, EDC (every day carry) kit that I can have with me pretty much anywhere I go. It won't raise alarm, nor will it make people look at me as if I have three heads.
Things happen, that's why we prepare. I just put together a small, discrete, EDC (every day carry) kit that I can have with me pretty much anywhere I go. It won't raise alarm, nor will it make people look at me as if I have three heads.
So what is it, and how can you build one? First off, this will work for me. Your situation is going to be different. Take what I have done, and use it as a launchpad for your own EDC that will fulfil your needs.
The other day, at Lowe's, I found a durable, nylon/Velcro cell phone pouch that came with a AAA flashlight, a small carabiner, and what seems to be a very strong belt clip. It was only $5.99, so I picked it up with this project in mind. How much useful gear can a person get into a cell phone pouch? You'd be surprised.
I've got my key ring (truck, truck tool box, house, office, and handcuffs), the AAA flashlight, two good size alcohol prep pads, a 2"x2" sterile wound dressing, a small roll of surgical tape, two surgical gloves, five adhesive bandages, a tube of Chap Stick 15 SPF, a small Sharpie marker, a Swiss Army Knife (I recommend only genuine Victorinox or Wegner - don't waste your money on an off brand SAK), and about 6.5 feet of 550 parachute cord. Everything is intended to be used for a small local emergency, or to aid me until I get additional help or back to my BOV or home. The only additions I foresee making are including one of the half-sized Bic disposable lighters, and trading out the cheapo flashlight that came with the pouch for a Mag Lite Solitaire which is about the same size, but much better quality. I will also add a barrier mask for CPR and use a black Sharpie to subdue the logo on the flap.
Does that little pouch hold all that stuff? Take a look for yourself...
I can have this with me whether I'm wearing short and a t-shirt, or in my suit at work. When someone needs a bandage, I'll have one ready and hopefully strike up a conversation about basic preparedness.
I hope all my readers will get inspired to make their own EDC kit. It can be done very inexpensively, and the time will come when you will be glad you have it.
Please visit our new If It Hits The Fan Facebook page and "like" us.


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Sash and rose classic lace trim jersey nightie
Key features:
- Delicate lace square neckline
- Knee length
- Breathable
- Lightweight
Materials: cotton/polyester
Care instructions:
- Cold machine wash with like colours
- Do not soak bleach or rub
- Do not tumble dry
- Cool iron on reverse if required
- Do not dry clean
Made in china
Style number: x9zsn022
Standard delivery $10. FREE on orders over $150 within Australia
Normally delivered within 5 - 10 working days after dispatch
At Harris Scarfe we do things a little differently, which is why we offer you a Change of Mind refund policy.
This means that if you simply change your mind, you can return your goods within 28 days of purchase provided that:
- Items are in their original packaging
- Items are in a condition suitable for resale
- You have your tax invoice as Proof of Purchase
Our Change of Mind Policy is in addition to any rights you may have under a manufacturer's warranty or statute and does not apply to laybys, customer orders, mattresses/bases, underwear, swimwear, hosiery, quilts or pillows or mattress protection items (mattress protectors, mattress underlays and mattress toppers).
We will refund using your original payment method.
Delivery Australia Wide
Secure & simple shopping
Since 1849


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Friday, October 31, 2008
Posted by Julie at 2:02 PM 5 comments
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Good Morning!
I need to vent! As most of you know I am one of 2 Co-Directors at my daughter's preschool. The job isn't hard, at times it can be stressful. The part that really sucks lately is the gossip or chit chat. Everyone has something to say, especially previous/current board members. Ideas are welcome, that is why there is a board. But these people had their opportunity to become a Co-Director and they didn't take it. I did. It's beginning to get to me, I am thinking that maybe emotionally this isn't a good week for me, LOL. I miss just going into the school and talking with the other mom's. I have had other jobs where I was in charge, but this is ridiculous. I just want to say stop talking about people. I hear a lot about the other Co-Director and I wonder do people say stuff about me too. I used to get frustrated about the other CD but now I feel bad because it isn't fair. She is and I am doing the best we can do. It's just so frustrating and so small town!! UGH!!
Posted by Julie at 9:55 AM 7 comments
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
I am truley living in the country.....
I see snow!!
The part of Connecticut where I moved is often referred to as the "Litchfield Hills". It gets colder here and when it snows it SNOWS!!
Well today it has been one of those days rainy, wet and windy. I was just at my sink washing some dishes and what do I see? No more rain. I see snow!!
Emily is very excited, but wants to know where the big piles are,LOL.
I always love the first snowfall, of course this one won't amount to anything. But it is really pretty!!
Posted by Julie at 5:32 PM 7 comments
Posted by Julie at 12:50 PM 3 comments
Blog list
Sometimes blogging brings me back to high school. Reading the comments other bloggers leave on my blog makes me feel "oh, they like me. They keep coming back". What makes me feel even better is when I see my blog in their blog list. I feel like "yay, they like me that much!!". But what if someone removes your blog from their list? Did they remodel and just forget you. Are you not bloggy friends anymore? It's crazy how a list on someones blog somehow makes you feel important. Since my move I haven't been blogging or commenting as much as I did before. I feel like I am losing my blogging friends. I go to my reader and see whats going on with you but sometimes don't have a minute to comment, for that I am sorry. I am really trying to get back in the swing of things, I miss it.
Posted by Julie at 10:26 AM 7 comments
Monday, October 27, 2008
Yesterday we had a small family Halloween party. We've been doing this the past few years so that my daughter and niece can dress up together. Here are a few pics from yesterday. Notice that my niece and her dog have matching costumes.....so cute!! Chele we missed you!
Posted by Julie at 10:37 AM 6 comments
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
A treat for me....
I decided not to buy the wristlet, but I did treat myself. They were having a great sale on Vera's site and I bought this bag. Normally costs $56 and I got it for $25, a bargain in my eyes. I have been wanting this bag too so yay for me!!! Mr Mailman bring me my new bag!!!! Pwetty Pwease.
Posted by Julie at 8:00 AM 4 comments
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Have to share
Posted by Julie at 1:35 PM 1 comments
Posted by Julie at 11:34 AM 2 comments
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Calling all Mom's
5pt harness booster OR car seat belt booster????
Posted by Julie at 6:56 PM 8 comments
Saturday, October 18, 2008
I want!!
I love all things Vera! My husband would say I have too many things Vera! But this is my newest need, want, desire. Isn't she cute? It has a place for you cell phone and inside it has a compartment for credit cards and money. Now which color do I want??? Oh and they are having a nice sale on the Vera Bradley website if you too love Vera.... I want to do some shopping..........should I?????????????????
Posted by Julie at 7:23 PM 3 comments
Friday, October 17, 2008
Once again...
Some Mums from Emily's school fundraiser.
Emily's first day of school.
Emily finally having a place to ride her bike outside ,in her own yard!!
Posted by Julie at 2:26 PM 4 comments
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Pics from Maine
Emily posing outside of LLBean
At the beach at sunset. It was so beautiful. The sky was amazing.
I love this shot with the moon and the pink.purple sky.
Here she is running and jumping in the surf.
Posted by Julie at 8:37 PM 7 comments
I just came back from Maine. I went with my Mom and Emily for Columbus weekend. Did some Christmas shopping and me shopping, mostly Emmy shopping. It was nice to get Away, but I missed my hubby and my home. It felt so good to come home to my home. It's nice that this place it starting to really feel like home to me.
While on vacation, I started Twilight, I didn't get too far into it yet (I couldn't sit for too long and read quite yet) but I like it, and I think I am starting to get into the good stuff. I bought the first 2 books, I had lunch with Heather and she recommended getting at least the two because they were quick reads. I can't wait to really get into it, I plan on reading later today after I unpack and do some laundry.
Emily got sick while we were in Maine, she threw up on Saturday night. So weird. She was fine the next day.
We went to the beach at Sunset and it was awesome, the sky was purple and pink and it reflected on the water. I got some great shot of Emily playing in the waves. She had her rain boots on but they soon became full of water. She said to me "Mommy my socks will get wet" I was like "Sweetie it is too late for that I can hear your piggies squish squashing already!"
What did you do for the long weekend????
Posted by Julie at 12:37 PM 6 comments
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Oh and I bought this...
The price wasn't that bad, and it was supposed to finish 2-4 salads. Yeah right. Cheese maybe for 2-3 salads. Croutons 2-3 salads. But chicken- definitely 1-2 (and that is pushing it) salads. But it tastes good.
Posted by Julie at 12:44 PM 5 comments
I've been excused......
from jury duty!!! I am good for another three years!! Wooooppppeeee!!
Posted by Julie at 12:42 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Jury duty
I can't believe it?!?!
I know many people who have never been called to jury duty. Some are young and some are old.
I have been summoned at least six times if not more. My husband has also been summoned several times. Why?? I thought this was supposed to be random? Is it because we lived in an area where there were many cases? Just our luck of the draw?? I wish I had that luck in other drawings. I hopefully will be dismissed due to my move to the country. We have our own small court house here in town, so I am hoping I am out of the other district. My first experience with jury duty was in Hartford and for a murder trial. Thankfully after being questioned I was not asked to sit on the jury.
You can be called multiple times, but if you have "served" within the last three years you can be dismissed. If you are summoned and don't have to show up for jury duty you have fulfilled your obligation for the three yrs. I have received several summons....Had to go to Hartford once, went through voi dire and everything, just wasn't picked. I received a summons when we moved in together and got dismissed because I moved out of the district I was summoned to. Was summoned within my three yr time frame 2x (nice) and When I was pregnant I was summoned so I got out of that because I was a new Mom. I think I was summoned another time or two and just didn't have to go. But seriously- WTH- why do I get picked all the time???????
Posted by Julie at 11:47 AM 8 comments


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The board of American Institute of Architects recently announced that it had appointed Robert Ivy as its new Chief Executive Officer. Robert Ivy before his appointment was serving as the Chief Editor in the Chief of Architectural Record publication since 1996. American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a professional body mandated with the task of governing design and construction laws as well as issuing licenses to qualified architects throughout the country. The institution was founded in 1857 and has its headquarters in Washington DC. AIA has a current membership has over 200 employees together with 300 chapters across the country.
Robert Ivy's appointment is seen as a major milestone for the institution considering his experience and career profile in the architectural world. In the recent days, Mr. Ivy ha featured in mainstream media advocating for several political, social as well as environmental issues that affect the building industry. He has also been championing for the need of architects to diversify to other sectors that are not necessarily related to design and building. He said that architects could be of more use to the society if they stopped focusing only in the building industry. Robert Ivy has also been a board member of AIA since 1990's.
The new Chief Executive Officer will be responsible for managing a large workforce at AIA as well as ensure proper coordination between the main office at Washington DC and 300 local chapters around the country. AIA every year sponsors hundreds of education programs regarding design and construction, and therefore Mr. Ivy will have a daunting task to make sure that such programs continue without interruption. The organization has an annual budget of over $56 million. With his experience, many architects and the general public are confident that Mr. Ivy will live up to the task ahead of him.
AIA 2010 and 2011 former presidents, George H. Miller and Clark Manus, welcomed the appointment and expressed their confidence towards Mr. Robert Ivy. "I am glad to hear about the appointment, I have known Ivy for several years, and I know he has what it takes to hold that position," said Miller while commenting on the news about the appointment. On the other hand, Clark Manus, FAIA, the 2011 AIA president also congratulated Mr. Ivy and asked him to bring on board the so needed reforms in the institution.
Mr. Robert Ivy will assume his new position effective Feb 1, 2011. Ivy holds a Master of Arts degree in Architecture from Tulane University as well as a bachelor's degree in English from the University of South Sewanee, Tennessee. Most people are optimistic about his appointment and believe that he will be able to bring the much-needed reforms in the institution.
Watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ2CmY7_W5o for more.


text: Michael Pisaro was born in Buffalo in 1961. He is a composer and guitarist, and a member of the Wandelweiser Composers Ensemble. He has composed over 80 works for a great variety of instrumental combinations, including several pieces for variable instrumentation. A particularly large category of his works is solo works, notably a series of 36 pieces (grouped into 6 longer works) for the three-year, 156-concert series organized by Carlo Inderhees at the Zionskirche in Berlin-Mitte from 1997-1999. Another solo piece, pi (1-2594), was performed in installments by the composer on 15 selected days in February, 1999, in Evanston, Illinois, and in Düsseldorf in 2000-2001.


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Deworming Your Pet
Pets, Parasites and People
Dogs and cats are not just pets. They are treated like members of the family. And like any member of your family, it is important to keep your companion animal healthy and free of parasites.
It is fairly common for a dog or cat to become infected with an internal or external parasite at some point in their lifetime. Parasites can affect your pet in a variety of ways, ranging from simple irritation to causing life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Some parasites can even infect and transmit diseases to you and your family.
Veterinarians can help prevent, accurately diagnose and safely treat parasites and other health problems that not only affect your dog or cat, but also the safety of you and your family.
For more information on how parasites affect your dog or cat, the health risks to people, and prevention tips, please visit www.petsandparasites.org
Heartworms inside a heart
Roundworms inside an intestine
Reducing risks to your family
You can reduce the risk of parasitic infection to your family by eliminating parasites from pets; restricting access to contaminated areas such as sandboxes, pet "walk areas" and other high-traffic areas; and practicing good personal hygiene.
Disposing of pet feces on a regular basis can help remove potentially infective worm eggs before they become distributed in the environment and are picked up, or ingested, by pets or humans.
What can I do?
Responsible pet parasite control can reduce the risks associated with transmission of parasitic diseases from pets to people. By following a few simple guidelines, pet owners can better protect their pets and their family:
- Keep pets away from wildlife (e.g. raccoons, coyotes, birds) and stray animals
- Keep wildlife out of your yard and cover sandboxes when not in use
- Regularly check your pets for signs of fleas and ticks
- Avoid overgrown grass and brush in yards which can be infested with ticks
- Promptly remove and properly dispose of pet feces
- Practice good personal hygiene – wash your hands and children's hands with soap and water after outdoor activities, handling pets, pet feces disposal and before meals
- Use a preventative flea and/or tick treatment year round
- Only feed pets cooked or prepared food (not raw meat)
- Minimize exposure to high-traffic pet areas
- Wear gloves while gardening
- Visit your veterinarian for annual testing and physical examination
- Administer worming medications as recommended by your veterinarian
- Ask your veterinarian about parasite infection risks and effective year-round preventative control measures which are administered monthly
Year-round Prevention
Parasites can infect your pet any time of year. External parasites, such as fleas and ticks may be less prevalent outside during certain times of the year however they often survive in the house during the winter months, creating an uninterrupted life cycle. Other internal parasites such as worms may affect your pet all year long. That's why it is important to consult with your veterinarian to implement a year-round parasite control program.
Common questions about pets and parasites
Q: If my dog or cat has intestinal worms, how can these parasites infect humans?
Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite of pets and the most likely to be transmitted to humans. Humans can accidently ingest infective worm eggs that have been passed through the pet's feces and left in the environment. The eggs can then hatch in the human's intestinal tract and the immature worms can travel to various tissues in the body, including the eyes and brain potentially causing serious infections.
Q: Are heartworms a parasite I should be concerned about for my pet?
Yes. Heartworms can be a very serious problem for both dogs and cats, especially those in mosquito-infested areas as mosquitoes are a vector (carrier of diseases to other animals and humans) and intermediate host for the pest. Heartworms can kill or seriously debilitate pets that are infected with them. That's because heartworms live in the bloodstream, lungs and heart of infected pets. Your veterinarian can do a blood test to determine if your pet has heartworm disease. A year-round preventive program is most effective to keep pets free of heartworms.
Q: What kind of internal parasites or worms can infect my cat or dog?
There are a number of intestinal worms that can infect dogs and cats, and they vary according to the species. In general, these include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms, and they are very prolific. In fact, one worm can produce more than 100,000 eggs per day, which are then passed in the pet's feces and spread throughout the area that the pet roams. Once in the environment, some of these eggs can remain infective and present a health risk to your pet and humans for years.
Q: How can my veterinarian determine if my pet has intestinal parasites (worms)?
Most intestinal parasites can be diagnosed through a physical examination and the microscopic analysis of your pet's feces. Your veterinarian can conduct the examination and fecal tests to determine if your pet has worms and then prescribe the appropriate treatment or preventive program.
Q: Do fleas and ticks on my pet present a health risk to my family?
Yes. Fleas and ticks can carry (either directly or indirectly) and transmit several potential illnesses to humans. For example, rickettsiosis (infection with Rickettsia) can be transmitted directly by ticks. Bartonellosis (infection with Bartonella) is transmitted between cats, by fleas, which can be spread to people. Also, fleas serve as an intermediate host for tapeworms, which can infect both your pet and humans.
Parasites that may affect your pet
- Coccidia
- Ear Mites
- Fleas
- Giardia
- Heartworms
- Hookworms
- Mange Mites
- Roundworms
- Tapeworms
- Ticks
- Toxoplasmosis
- Whipworms
What is a zoonotic disease?
Zoonoses, or zoonotic diseases are those diseases that can be transmitted directly or indirectly from animals to humans. For example, some worms can be transmitted in the environment.
What is a vector-borne disease?
Vector-borne diseases are those transmitted by fleas or ticks among other parasites that infest dogs and cats. They can affect both pets and people. Ticks can transmit a large number of "vector-borne" diseases in North America including Lyme disease, relapsing fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and tularemia.
Source: www.petsandparasites.org


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Three Fun Events To Benefit Make-A-Wish Central And Western North Carolina
You have three big chances in May to help your local Make-A-Wish grant wishes throughout North Carolina. Get your calendar out and get ready to mark these three dates in bright red ink: your first opportunity to take part in a fun event begins May 3; the second scheduled event is May 17; the final May activity will be held May 31. Sign up today to help fundraise to make wishes come true for children in your community with critical illnesses.
The Kentucky Derby Classic In Greensboro
Start your May off the right way by taking part in the Kentucky Derby Classic at the High Caliber Stables in Greensboro, beginning at 4:30 p.m. This is the first event of its kind in Greensboro and will include all things Kentucky Derby – including a live viewing of the event as it takes place. Along with getting together in support of Make-A-Wish to watch the Kentucky Derby, guests will enjoy music, dancing, Mint Juleps, beer and wine, food, a horse show, hat contest, auction and more. Enjoy watching the action of Churchill Downs while taking part in an important fundraising event.
Tickets for the event start at $75 dollars. There are also other sponsorship opportunities available. Check the ticket page and choose a package that works best for you! Be a part of the Make-A-Wish magic that granted more than 14,000 wishes last year alone. Enjoy the Kentucky Derby in style all while raising money for your local Make-A-Wish chapter.
Two Chances To Run The Trailblaze Challenge
There are two chances to take part in The Trailblaze Challenge this May. Choose the date or area that works best for you! The first Trailblaze Challenge is scheduled to take place May 17, with the second taking place on May 31. The Trailblaze Challenge is a 24.1 mile hike on the Bartram Trail outside Franklin, all taking place during one life-changing day! Get your daily dose of exercise and fun by taking part in this great outdoor event!
The Saturday, May 17 hike is designed for Charlotte area participants, while the May 31 hike has been scheduled for Asheville and Winston-Salem/Greensboro/High Point area participants. Get your friends together and register today or learn more at the event website. The famous Bartram Trail is host to some of the most scenic mountains in North Carolina with elevation reaching about 5,385 feet, with spectacular views of ridges and valleys throughout the course. The goal is to raise $330,000 to help grant wishes in the area. Sign up today!
The Central and Western North Carolina chapter was founded in 1985 and has granted more than 3,000 wishes. Since the average wish in North Carolina costs about $6,000, if the Trailblaze Challenge reaches its goal, it will be responsible for making about 55 wishes come true! You can be a part of the magic just by taking the challenge and enjoying this scenic hike.
Donate Your Car To Benefit Make-A-Wish
You don't have to go on a 24.1 mile hike in order to benefit Make-A-Wish, you can make a difference just by walking over to your phone, dialing 1-877-431-9474 and donating your vehicle to Wheels For Wishes. Wheels For Wishes is a nonprofit benefiting Make-A-Wish and can help make wishes come true in your North Carolina Community. The process of donating a vehicle is quick and hassle free. You can even donate a vehicle online using our simple donation form.
It is so easy to donate. Car, truck, RV, ATV, boat or motorcycle, if you have a vehicle you no longer want or need, consider donating it to help Make-A-Wish. If you are asking yourself "How can I donate my car," give us a call and we can help walk you through the donation process. We will pick up or tow away your vehicle for free and you receive the maximum possible tax deduction for your donation. Don't wait, give us a call today!


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Wine Festival Tickets Available Dec. 16th
● By Grant Johnson
Steamboat Wine Festival
Wednesday, August 06, 2014 | 12:00AM
THE STEAMBOAT WINE FESTIVAL is a premier destination event where master winemakers, culinary greats, and our distinguished guests gather to play, wine, and dine in beautiful ... Read More
The Steamboat Wine Festival wants to wish our readers a Happy Thanksgiving, and let you know that tickets for the 2014 festival will become available on December 16th. The festival's signature events begin with Wine on the Mountain on Thursday, August 7th, continue with the Stroll of Steamboat on Friday, August 8th, and conclude with the Toast of Steamboat on Saturday, August 9th.
Learn more at the Wine Festival's official website - steamboatwinefestival.com - or check out this gallery of photos from the 2013 festival. Steamboat Magazine staff were in attendance and we can confirm that a wonderful, delicious time was had by all. You can see some our own photos in the gallery above.


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The recent drop in shares of Apple (AAPL) has probably been more pronounced than most expected. It's true the stock was very expensive at its all-high of more than $200 per share (40 times forward earnings) but the catalyst for the sharp $80 per share drop we have seen recently was the company's extremely conservative guidance for the current quarter. Apple always sandbags quarterly guidance, so this did not come as a surprise, but evidently investors were hoping they would have been a little less cautious. However, in this day and age, when quarterly guidance is given simply to help out Wall Street analysts, under-promising is the only way to go. This is true even more right now as the economic climate is highly uncertain.
Despite all the reasons to be worried, the fundamental story behind Apple is still strong. The company is gaining market share in desktops, notebooks, and cell phones, and is holding their lead in music players. The company will not be immune to a consumer led slowdown, but market share gains will allow them to hold up better than the competition. Given that, and the likelihood that Apple will earn well north of $5 per share during calendar 2008 (current consensus estimates stand at $5.27), the current share price of $119 looks very attractive is investors are willing to wait out the uncertainty in the economy.
Not only does Apple stock trade at only 22.6 times this year's expected earnings, which will likely prove conservative as usual, but the company has quietly been building up a gigantic pile of cash. Apple hasn't been buying back shares aggressively or making large acquisitions, so cash reserves are rising at a staggering clip. Shown below are the company's cash balances as of the end of the last four fiscal years, as well as the last quarter. And keep in mind Apple has no debt whatsoever on its balance sheet.
Apple Cash Balances ( in millions of USD):
Sept 2004: $5.46 billion
Sept 2005: $8.26 billion
Sept 2006: $10.11 billion
Sept 2007: $15.39 billion
Dec 2007: $18.45 billion
Apple currently has $21 per share in cash, with no debt, yet another reason to be attracted to the current stock price after a drop of more than $80 from its high. Steve Jobs has been hesitant to part with his cash in recent years (the company had liquidity issues years ago before the iPod came along), but eventually he will accumulate so much that he will be forced to do something with all of it. Large acquisitions are a less likely option, but a huge stock buyback or one-time dividend would certainly excite investors.
Full Disclosure: Long shares of Apple at the time of writing


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What is Omega-3?
Omega-3 is essential for our body coz it can't be produced by our body by itself. We must obtain this polyunsaturated fatty acids from the food we eat.
Omega-3 works closely with Omega-6 fatty acids, that;s why it's important to maintain an appropriate balance of each in our diet. This balance should consist of roughly 1 to 4 times more Omega-6 fatty acids than Omega-3. Don't get wrong with the 10 to 30 times more Omega-6 than Omega-3.
The health benefits of Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to :
- Reduce inflammation in joints, cholesterol, menstrual pain, the risk of some cancers (such as colon, prostate and breast cancer), risk of experiencing depression and risk of stroke
- Help prevent certain chronic diseases such as heart disease and arthritis
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve bone strength and reduce the impact of osteoporosis and lung function in those suffering Asthma
- Assist cognitive and behavioural functions and treatment of Diabetes
- Assist in treating or preventing Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Assist in treating people with eating disorders (such as anorexia nervosa)
- Assist in treating burns and certain skin disorders
Omega-3 helps those of us with weight loss goals in at least four significant ways :
- Omega-3 help regulate our blood sugar and insulin levels.
- Omega-3 help us burn more fat.
- Omega-3 help keep hunger at bay.
- Omega-3 help reduce the risk or seriousness of ailments commonly associated with being overweight.
Dietary intake for Omega-3 on diets
The Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences in the U.S. issued Adequate Intake (AI) levels for linolenic acid, the initial building block for all Omega-3 fatty acids found in the body :
- For teenage and adult males : 1.6 grams per day
- For teenage and adult females : 1.1 grams per day
Sources of Omega-3
- Fish : Salmon, Tuna, Mackerel, Sardines
- Vegetable : Spinach, Broccoli, Chinese cabbage
- Fruit : Cantaloupe
- Walnuts
- flaxseed
- Canola oil
- Kidney beans
- Cauliflower
- Halibut
- Soybeans
- Omega-3 supplements
See more about :


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If Americans love two things, it's lists and articles about lists. Well, folks, I am happy to provide and indulge your passions, because that's exactly what this is. On Thursday, Built in Chicago's Maria Katris posted a list of the top 100 digital companies in our city, but, really, it's a lot more than that.
It's an infographic that yields fun facts that are actually fun to tell others, like that in 2011, a new startup launched every 48 hours, or that 71 of the top 100 are located within a one-mile radius of the Merchandise Mart. There are also breakdowns like 41 percent of the companies are consumer web-oriented and 17 percent are ecommerce.
So, yeah, it's interesting, even if you haven't heard of some of the companies featured – like Leapfrog Online and eshots – because it gives you license to check them out because, hey, they must be doing something right, right?
David Wolinsky is a freelance writer and a lifelong Chicagoan. In addition to currently serving as an interviewer-writer for Adult Swim, he's also a comedy-writing instructor for Second City. He was the Chicago city editor for The Onion A.V. Club where he provided in-depth daily coverage of this city's bustling arts/entertainment scene for half a decade. When not playing video games for work he's thinking of dashing out to Chicago Diner, Pizano's, or Yummy Yummy. His first career aspirations were to be a game-show host.


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Like any community, Boulder has distinct neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are important to both renters and landlords. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant it is important to understand some of the important characteristics of each neighborhood.
Some important things to consider about any neighborhood:
1. What are the boundaries of the neighborhood? Is this area close to where people live, work, and/or shop?
Landlords: Your property location will attract tenants or not. Location is important to people. Is the property close to public transit, schools, and/or shopping?
Tenants: Do you want to live where you work/go to school, shop, eat?
2. What schools are in the area? How do they rate?
Landlords: Schools are important to parents, so if your rental may attract families, keep this in mind.
Tenants: If you are a family with school age children you will want to consider what schools your rental allows your kids to attend.
To find out how schools in the neighborhood rate, visit Great Schools.
3. How easy is it to get around the neighborhood?
Landlords: More and more people are interested in alternative transportation. How easy is it to walk or bike from your property? Is the property close to a bus line?
Tenants: Can you park in the neighborhood? Do you have easy access to alternative transportation [e.g., walking, biking, bus]?
Here is an overview of Boulder neighborhoods from 8z Real Estate.
To learn more about each Boulder neighborhood click here.


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I have a few friends obsessed with Slate magazine's Culture Gabfest podcast, which I've enjoyed on occasion in the past. One directed me to the latest, which covers the Grateful Dead in one segment. I'm not much of a podcast guy in general, but I figured it was worth tuning in to see what the educated post-hipster literati had to say about the Dead's legacy and farewell shows. The GD segment starts @16 minutes in:
Turns out, they've got almost nothing. Ostensibly the topic is the Dead as a "tribal" music (ie, you're in the tribe or not in the tribe, with no one on the fence) and what about the music makes it so appealing/important for the tribe members. Not a bad premise, I guess (though not one that I fully agree with), but they quickly slide into a very well-plowed rut of Dead criticism: every song is endlessly long, their albums are all worthless, they were well past their prime in the 80's, they were occasionally great and usually bad, their cult of fans were either fratboys or hopeless 60's burnouts. Slate's in-house Deadhead is brought out to speak on the Dead's behalf and eagerly talks about tapestries of sound, dreamscapes, and psychedelic wallpaper, is apologetic for the bands' faults (my god, he even cracks the joke about what deadheads say when they run out of pot), and continuously refers to their music as noodling. The hosts talk about shibboleths and rib on the in-house Deadhead for creating a three hour playlist of Dead jams for them to suffer through. You can imagine the rest.
I'm always intrigued about the responses to the band in 21st century forums of popular culture where the band and/or its following have relatively little (or none) of a foothold. 20-30 years ago, you knew exactly what the response was going to be. My own unresearched impression is that in the past decade, the contemporary music press has at least come around to the idea that there was a lot more to the Dead than what met the eye in the 80's-90's. I'm talking about contemporary publications like The Wire, Pitchfork, that kind of thing, not older ones like Rolling Stone or even the New York Times. I don't want to wander too far into vague generalities about how the Dead are viewed/received by critics of pop culture today, but I was disappointed and honestly a little surprised that a publication like Slate would be so lazily stuck in the past with their treatment of a band that, in Slate's own words, is a great American institution.
I'm going to listen to 7/18/72 right now to get the fuzz out of my ears. Endless tapestries of sound!


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- Washing Machines
- Washer Dryers
- Tumble Dryers
Imperial Fires
Dalzells of Markethill is Northern Ireland's premier Imperial Fire dealer stocking the largest retail selection of Imperial Gas and Electric Fires with the best deals available. Shop online and browse over 8,000 large home and kitchen appliances or visit our retail store where we have over 700 home appliances on display to choose from.
Imperial Fires manufacture a range of inset Gas and Electric Fires which are Traditional and Contemporary in design. The Flamescape III Electric Fire for example can be either wall mounted, partially or fully inset and looks almost like a modern, sleek widescreen television. It comes with an infrared remote control so you can adjust the heat setting and the appearance of the lifelike flames.
The Imperial Gas Fire range includes the Curvascape Fire which has a modern design and available in either a landscape design or portrait design which is ideal if wall space is limited. Visit Dalzells to choose from the largest selection of Imperial Gas and Electric Fires in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland with the best deals available. There's plenty of on-street Free Parking and we're easily accessible, just off the A28 between Armagh and Newry; 30 minutes from Lisburn, 45 from Belfast and an hour from Dublin. With Multi-Buy Discounts available why shop anywhere else? And, when you buy any Imperial Gas or Electric Fire we appreciate that you'll want to have it delivered as quickly as possible. That's why we offer a daily delivery service to Belfast and Dublin including FREE delivery across Northern Ireland and counties Louth, Monaghan and Dublin. For Imperial Fires think Dalzells.


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The Sage Diploma of Fitness Coaching: satisfying the demands of today's fitness clients
Teaching exercise is no longer enough. Today's fitness clients want more. They want nutritional advice, goal setting and lifestyle mentoring for a better level of fitness, quality of life and overall well-being. That's why Sage has introduced the new Diploma of Fitness Coaching (10067NAT) – a comprehensive course that embraces the needs of today's clientele.
Study after study has revealed that diet plays a crucial role in weight loss. It's widely recognised that cardio and weights are just not enough, a fact that is influencing people's choice when selecting a gym program – and their fitness coach.
It's no surprise then, that the new breed of fitness instructors wants to capitalise on this demand and is keen to adopt the title of "fitness coach" and learn what it takes to keep the modern fitness client smiling. Given the ways of supply and demand, this seems a natural progression. The only problem is that most fitness graduates are not qualified to perform this role.
Enter Sage's Diploma of Fitness Coaching program, the first of its kind in Australia. Seeking to address this worldwide industry trend, Sage is arming its graduates with everything they need to provide top class fitness coaching for the requirements of the industry today.
In 2013, business research firm IBISWorld produced a specialised report about the fitness industry which provided some insights into trends in consumer needs:
"…consumers are more likely to incorporate nutritional advice when combined with a training program, where targets are specific and incorporate fitness goals."
(Magner, L., IBISWorld, Industry Report OD4195 Personal Trainers in Australia, 2013)
Sage's Diploma of Fitness Coaching (10067NAT) was designed specifically to address this trend.
How is a Fitness Coach different from a Personal Trainer?
There are many differences between a personal trainer and a fitness coach. In short, if you become a Fitness Coach, your education will have been far more thorough. You'll be given the skills and knowledge to work closely with your clients over the long-term, helping them achieve not just their fitness but their health, nutritional and well-being goals. You'll have more advanced first aid qualifications, be able to deliver more advanced fitness programs and of course, provide comprehensive nutrition plans to clients. Plus, you'll be able to work with special needs groups, such as those with injuries, chronic conditions, or children and the elderly.
Fitness Coaching Diploma: what does it involve?
Technically speaking, "A fitness coach demonstrates the skills and knowledge required to design, facilitate and adapt long-term exercise programs and nutritional plans to improve the movement performance of a range of clients. Fitness coaches work with clients on a regular, long-term basis to assist and empower them to set and achieve long-term training goals to achieve the overall wellness and quality of life."
Simply put, this means you'll be able to:
- create the right type of exercise programs for your clients
- have the know-how to teach these programs to your clients correctly
- when required, adapt (modify) exercises if a client cannot manage a certain routine or exercise
- give people general nutritional plans
- work with your clients on a long-term basis
- help clients meet their training goals, and improve their well-being and quality of life
There are 14 units that must be completed to graduate with the Sage Diploma of Fitness Coaching (10067NAT). This comprehensive program is delivered on campus, face-to-face over a period of at least 12 months. You'll also be required to complete a minimum of 120 hours of workplace experience. It's no weekend qualification – it's a challenging course with top class instruction. And when you graduate, you'll be armed with all the skills and knowledge you need to rise like cream to the top.
If you like the idea of a long, prosperous and rewarding career in the fitness industry, this course is for you. Sage is the only provider in Australia to provide this industry-leading diploma course, with material that promises you the very best start for your career.
Find out more about Sage Diploma of Fitness Coaching here, or contact one of our careers advisors on 1300 664 664.
Sage Institute of Fitness – it's more than a job, it's a rewarding career.
Vicki Richardson
Latest posts by Vicki Richardson (see all)
- Sage Institute of Fitness Career Partner Sam Merza talks about fitness, employment opportunities & career satisfaction. - January 3, 2017
- Lisa Middleton – Advanced Sports Dietitian, Melbourne United Basketball Club - December 22, 2016
- Butrus Haider: meet your new breed of personal trainer - December 19, 2016