text:
This is our third buyer's guide dedicated to lenses. If you were forced to choose between a good camera and a good lens what would be your choice? Many of us would normally choose the camera since it is full of gadgets and innovations. But, would that really be the best choice?
The lens: your camera's most crucial component
The lens is one of your camera's most crucial components, if not THE most crucial (for both reflex and hybrid cameras): the lens is what makes it possible to capture light. Put a poor-quality lens on a good-quality camera and you will quickly discover that the camera will not be able to achieve its full potential. The opposite is also true to a lesser extent, and there is really no point in putting a very high-end lens on an entry-level camera.
The idea here is to find the right balance, without forgetting that a lens is an investment that will undoubtedly outlive your current camera – if you intend to remain with the same manufacturer when you buy your next camera. It is probable that you will change cameras in 3, 6 or 8 years, but the same can not be said about your lenses, especially if you have chosen good-quality ones. Lenses do not really wear out, they do not really get damaged (depending on how you use them) and do not really diminish in quality relative to the new lenses appearing on the market.
Therefore, by carefully choosing the lens that suits your needs, it will serve you well for many years to come, even if you decide to change cameras. To help you make your choice, and before buying a new lens, we recommend that you read our "Practical Wednesday" dedicated to this subject. This will allow you to know for certain what lens you need and not to make any mistakes in your selection.
Lastly, if you are looking to equip yourself with a full frame camera with a high-megapixel count sensor (the 36 megapixel D810 or even the 42 megapixel Sony A7R for example), you will need to choose high-quality lenses adapted to modern digital sensors, otherwise you risk not being able to exploit the full potential of this type of sensor. Therefore, this is a consideration to keep in mind when buying a camera.
APS-C or full frame?
Before going any further, you need to give some though to an important consideration: will you be using an APS-C or a full frame camera for the foreseeable future? This is an important consideration since it will determine your choice of lenses. Every manufacturer has lenses dedicated to APS-C reflex cameras (which are incompatible with 24×36 mm models, or which in the best case scenario produce a cropping effect when used on this type of camera, such as with Nikon lenses where a part of the image is lost) as well as a line of lenses dedicated to full frame cameras which work with both full frame and APS-C sensor cameras.
The lenses which are exclusively compatible with APS-C cameras are often inexpensive and of sufficient quality to work with this type of sensor.
However, if you intend to use a full frame reflex camera, you will need to buy compatible lenses which are often heavier and more expensive, but which guarantee that you will have optimal image quality regardless of the camera that you choose to use them on.
For clarity's sake, here are the abbreviations used by the major manufacturers:
- Nikkor : DX for APS-C / FX for 24×36
- Sigma : DC for APS-C / DG for 24×36
- Canon : EF-S for APS-C / EF for 24×36
- Tamron : Di II for APS-C / Di for 24×36
- Tokina : DX for APS-C / FX for 24×36
- Pentax : DA for APS-C / D-FA for 24×36
- Fujifilm : XC or XF, both are for APS-C
Now that we have introduced the subject, let's move on to our selection of lenses for this buyer's guide dedicated to the subject. Once again, this is not an exhaustive list, but rather a list of the most indispensable lenses in each category and your choice will depend on your usage and needs. We will not go so far as to tell you what THE best lens is, rather we will help you to discover, depending on your particular needs and budget, what the right lenses are for you.
Read More: Full Frame vs. APS-C: sensor size and the consequences it has for you
A word about kit lenses
You may have noticed that when we recommend a reflex camera, we do not always indicate the camera + lens combination – commonly called a "kit". These kits allow you to be operational from the moment that you buy your camera and often allow you to save some money on the lens that comes in the kit. When we do not indicate the kit option for a certain camera, it is certainly not because we have forgotten to do so, but rather it is part of our recommendation!
If you are buying your first reflex camera – especially at the lower end of the product spectrum – we generally recommend that you choose to buy the kit which often comes with a 18-55 mm zoom with variable aperture (f/3.5-5.6 for example). This lens is not be thrown away, and it will allow you to take some good photos…to start out with at least. However, as it has often been confirmed by technical tests, these lenses do not always do honor to the cameras that they are being sold with – this is especially true of mid-level to professional level models. They often suffer from chromatic aberrations as well as image distortions and their maximum aperture opening is limited.
This is namely the reason why, if you do buy a full frame dslr camera of mid to professional level quality, you should not remain with the basic lens, but should invest in a better quality lens instead.
The indispensable fixed focal length lenses
It would be impossible to begin to list the selection of lenses we have chosen for this buyer's guide without first speaking about fixed focal length lenses, namely THE fixed focal length lens that all photographers must have: the 50 mm – for full frame cameras – or 35 to 50 mm for APS-C devices (due to an enlargement factor of around x1.5). This is the lens which has always had the best quality to price ratio.
Why? Because it is of a simple design and inexpensive to produce – moreover this simplicity translates into quality. In this way, this "rock solid" lens will accompany you throughout your long life as a photographer, and will never let you down.
Still not convinced? You should be aware of the fact that a standard feature of 50 and 35 mm fixed focal length lenses is an impressive aperture opening of f/1.8, which allows them to capture an enormous amount of light and to create nice background blurring effects.
50mm f / 1.8 with Nikon D800
For the most demanding users, there is also an f/1.4 version, which is much more expensive, but which makes it possible to capture even more light. It is ideal for photographing in low light situations, but also for taking magnificent portraits with blurred backgrounds (at full aperture opening, be very careful to focus properly). Rest assured however, fixed focal length lenses with a f/1.8 aperture opening are already sufficiently luminous for the majority of situations.
If you have an entry-level DSLR camera, you must verify whether or not your chosen lens has an integrated autofocus motor, since some cameras do not have a built-in AF motor – which would result in your having to manually focus the lens. In terms of Nikon products, AF-S lenses have an integrated AF motor.
Fixed focal length Nikon lenses
In our team, three of us use Nikon DSLR cameras, both APS-C (D7000) and Full Frame (D800 and D600 in the case of Emmanuel). Here is a list of our favorite fixed focal length lenses.
Emmanuel uses fixed focal length lenses very often, mainly the 35 mm FX format lens, due to its versatility: this lens is capable of taking portraits, photographing almost any kind of scene as well as capturing landscapes. Since these types of lenses are not very complicated, they are often relatively small and light-weight. And since they are fixed focal length lenses, they often offer much better optical quality for a lower price.
His preferred lens is the excellent Sigma 35 mm f/1.4 DG HSM ART (available from 899 dollars – a version with a Canon mount is also available) which he took with him during his travels around the world in 2013: with exceptional image quality at all aperture openings, this lens is a little "bomb".
The Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8 G (only compatible with APS-C sensor cameras) is also a good choice; smaller and lighter, providing slightly less sharpness, it is especially less expensive: it can be purchased starting at 196 dollars.
The Nikkor 50mm f / 1.8 and f / 1.4
The Nikkor 50mm 1.8 G is also a lens that any photographer would be happy to own. It is a little bit heavier and more imposing than the Nikkor 50 mm f/1.8 D, but it has the advantage of having an integrated AF motor, useful for entry-level reflex cameras which are not equipped with one. Those photographers in search of the widest aperture can buy the f/1.4 version instead, which is a little bit more expensive.
If you would like to photograph your subject from a little farther away, the Nikkor AF-S 85 mm f/1.8 G (from 476$) is an excellent lens, perfect for portraiture and even for everyday purposes – it was used to take this photo of the Tuileries Garden in Paris.
For macro photography lovers, the Nikon 105 mm f/2.8 is the ideal lens, especially since it is stabilized. It can also be used for portraiture. However, this lens is large and quite heavy (790g). Sigma offers an equivalent stabilized f/2.8 lens for people on a tighter budget.
Fixed focal length Canon lenses
In 2015, Canon announced its new 50 mm f/1.8 STM lens which replaced the 50 mm f/1.8 II. While it is a little bit more expensive than the older model (it can be purchased from 127€ versus 96€ for the previous model), it still has an excellent quality to price ratio. It allows its user to fully exploit its depth of field without requiring an increase in ISO sensitivity in low light conditions. Everyone seems to agree that this lens should come as the standard lens for all cameras!
If you are hesitating between the old and the new model because you would like to save a few dozen dollars, we highly recommend that you opt for the STM version, which is quieter and especially more rugged.
Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM and f/1.4
The f/1.4 is approximately three times more expensive, but the USM focusing motor is really very advantageous, for those who can afford it. If you own an APS-C device, this 50 mm lens would certainly still be useful, but in order to get the same focal rendition (due to the enlargement factor of the sensor), you would need to equip your camera with the Sigma 35 mm f/1.4, which is however much more expensive (but of excellent quality).
As a bonus, last year Canon released an ultra flat (2.2 mm) and ultra light-weight (130 g) Pancake 40 mm f/2.8 lens. With its small size and reasonable price (160 dollars), this is a good lens if your goal is to travel light and to go unnoticed. Its motor is not very fast, but it does have the advantage of being very quiet. In terms of image quality, at an aperture opening of f/2.8 the center of the image is very sharp, with a little bit of vignetting around the edges. At f/5.6 the sharpness becomes uniform and the vignetting disappears.
If you are a fan of macro photography, the EF 100 mm f/2.8 Macro L IS lens has an all-weather construction (weatherproofing) and its three axis stabilizer should allow you to lower your shutter speed while still obtaining a sharp image.
Fixed focal length Pentax lenses
Jean-Noël, a long-time convert to Sony's full frame A7 camera used to use Pentax cameras. He shared with us his favorite lenses.
For both macro photography and portraiture, he really loves to use the Pentax 100 mm f/2.8 Macro WR, which provides great image sharpness and is capable of focusing at a macro scale with an aperture opening of f/2.8. It is also a stabilized lens.
Pentax 100 mm f/2.8 Macro
For the Pentax brand, the basic fixed focal length lens is the 50 mm f/1.8; a wider angle lens, the 35 mm SMC DA f/2.4 AL is also available, but it only has a maximum aperture of f/2.4. For a more luminous "classic" lens, it would be necessary to turn towards the 55 mm f/1.4 SDM which makes it possible to achieve a magnificent circular bokeh effect, but which comes at a high price (starting at 650 dollars) and which is not compatible with full frame sensor cameras.
Left, the Pentax 50mm f / 1.8, right the Pentax 35mm f / 2.4
Fixed focal length Sony lenses
As far as Sony is concerned, between its lenses destined for hybrid and reflex cameras, those for full frame cameras, and those which are only compatible with APS-C systems, the situation is rather complicated.
Here are some clarifications which will hopefully prevent you from making the mistake of choosing the wrong type of lens. It goes without saying that the standard fixed focal length 35 mm and 50 mm lenses are available in the Sony brand.
If you own a Sony reflex camera, you will need to distinguish between DT lenses (exclusively compatible with APS-C sensors) and A/ZA lenses (compatible with both APS-C and full frame sensor cameras). If you have a Sony hybrid camera, you will need to use the E mount type lenses (only APS-C compatible) or the FE mount type lenses (which are compatible with both APS-C and full frame sensors). It is also possible to mount lenses destined for reflex cameras on hybrid models by using an LA-EA adapter ring.
In the Sony A7 product line, there are two excellent fixed focal length lenses: the Sonnar T FE 55 mm f/1.8 ZA and the Sonnar T FE 35 mm f/2.8 ZA. Both of these lenses offer superior image quality, but are for two different types of usage:
- The 35 mm, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, is great for urban photography. Highly compact, this lens makes it possible to have an easily transportable camera which can be carried around in a small case. The image quality it provides is definitely a notch above what the kit lens is capable of, without however matching the performance of the 55 mm lens.
- The 55 mm, which has a maximum aperture of f/1.8, seems at first glance to be a little large and expensive. However, it is an incredible lens! In conjunction with the A7, it is possible to take very precise images with unrivaled sharpness. We found the softness of the images it took – namely in portraiture – very pleasant. This is an ideal tool for fans of the bokeh effect.
Jean-Noel has the 55 mm f/1.8, and even if its 998 dollars price is somewhat hard on the wallet, there is currently no other alternative for the Sony A7, without making use of an adapter.
The other indispensable fixed focal length lenses are more dedicated to specific needs. For portraiture, the best lenses are those with a focal length of between 85 and 135 mm, allowing the photographer to gain more distance from the model. Certain lenses within this range of focal lengths are also geared towards macro photography, such as the 100 mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM from Canon. If you are passionate about street photography or landscape photography, 24 or 35 mm lenses would be of more use to you. And if you are a wide angle aficionado, you should be aware of the fact that ultra wide angle lenses exist, such as 14 mm models.
And of course, there are the mythical 200 mm, 400 mm and 800 mm fixed focal length lenses, but these are mainly used for nature photography, and you don't even want to know how much they sell for.
The zooms recommended by our team
Now that we have spoken about fixed focal length lenses, we will be discussing zooms. These lenses, which allow you to cover a more or less wide range of focal lengths – sometimes going from wide angle to powerful zoom – are quite numerous, and are of widely varying quality, depending on the product level.
Just as we did for fixed focal length lenses, we will not be going over all existing zooms, instead we will speak about those that we use on a daily basis.
Nikon zooms
If you intend to travel with a single lens mounted on your Nikon APS-C camera, and if the idea of mounting a fixed focal length lens is unpleasant to you, the 18-200 mm AF-S f/3.5-5.6G IF ED VR II is the lens that you need. It goes without saying that this is not the most luminous lens, nor is it the one which will give you the best sharpness, but it is the one which will allow you to cover the widest range of focal lengths – allowing you to to take a photo in situations when you would otherwise have had to swap lenses. Sigma's 18-200 mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Contemporary is slightly less luminous, but it retails for almost half as much as the Nikon lens and is of comparable quality.
From left to right: 18-200 mm f / 3.5-5.6 IF ED VR II, 18-105 mm f / 3.5-5.6 ED VR and 18-300 mm f / 3.5-5.6 DC OS HSM Macro
The 18-105 mm AF-S f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is also a good option for those starting out it photography; it is less expensive, but it covers a more limited range of focal lengths. It is sometimes sold as a kit lens with some cameras. Sigma's 18-300 mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Macro lens, first announced at Photokina 2014 has an excellent price to quality ratio if you are looking for a lens with a little bit more zooming power. It can be purchased starting at 399 dollars– a version with a Canon mount is also available.
Nikkor 24-70mm f / 2.8 mounted on a D810
If you have a full frame camera, you will need to choose an FX lens. In the Nikon brand, the holy grail is the 24-70 mm f/2.8, ideal for photojournalism because it provides both a 24 mm wide angle as well as a more standard 70 mm focal length and because it has a fixed aperture opening of f/2.8 which allows it to capture more light. However this lens is large, heavy, and above all expensive. For this reason, we recommend the equivalent lens manufactured by Tamron, the 24-70 mm f/2.8 which is stabilized, much more compact, while still being well-built and providing a very high level of optical quality. And, at almost half the price of the Nikon lens (the Tamron lens is available from 1099 dollars), it is an excellent alternative.
If you are a fan of Sigma products, the 24-70 mm f/2.8 HSM is also much more inexpensive than the Nikon lens, but it does not provide the same degree of sharpness as the Tamron version; moreover, it is subject to some vignetting.
The two 70-200 mm of Nikon. At the top, the f/4 and down the f/2.8
The same thing can be said for zooms with the exception of the Nikkor 70-200 mm f/2.8 ED VR II, which provides excellent sharpness, a very wide fixed aperture opening, a remarkably good-quality construction as well as stabilization. Unfortunately, it weighs more than 1.5 kg and there is a strong possibility that its price will dissuade you from buying it. Fortunately, Nikon also offers a model with a f/4 aperture, the Nikkor 70/200 mm f/4G ED VR. While it is certainly less luminous, it is well built and is a perfect choice if you don't really need a highly luminous lens. However, be forewarned, this lens still weighs in at 850 g and is available starting at 1396 dollars. A little bit of sneakiness on Nikon's part: this lens is not sold with the tripod mounting collar (RT-1) which costs 170 dollars. Without this collar, using this lens on a tripod mounded camera risks putting pressure on the lens mount, not to mention that the whole setup will suffer from a poor weight distribution. Once again, Tamron offers an equivalent lens in terms of optical performance and design, but for a much lower price: the SP AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD which can be purchased from 999 dollars. Sigma offers the 70-200 mm f/2.8 DG APO OS EX HSM – available starting at 1299 dollars.
Are you interested in entering the world of nature photography without going bankrupt? Both Tamron and Sigma offer a 150-600 mm f/5-6.3 zoom of good build-quality: 869 dollars for the Tamron model and 1089$ for Sigma's.
Are you looking for a wide angle zoom? We recommend the Nikkor AF-S 16-35 mm f/4G ED VR which is not the most luminous, but its stabilization will allow you to gain a few precious f stops.
Canon zooms
The Canon brand offers more or less the same lenses as Nikon. For the hardcore traveler equipped with an APS-C sensor camera, the Canon EF-S 18-200 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS makes it possible to photograph things at very short or very long distances with a single lens.
Canon EF-S 18-200 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and Sigma 18-300 mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Macro
Just as for Nikon, the Sigma 18-300 mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Macro has an excellent price to quality ratio if you are looking for a lens with a little bit more zooming power. It can be purchased from 399 dollars.
If you have a full frame sensor camera, the 24-70 mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 Canon zooms make the perfect duo, so long as you are a professional photographer or your bank is willing to loan you money. If you are on a tighter budged but still want to take advantage of these lenses, two less luminous versions – f/4 aperture –exist. These lenses cost less while still being of excellent quality (L series). The 24-70 mm f/4 sells for 899$ (versus 1750 dollars for the 2.8 version) whereas the 70-200 mm f/4 IS (stabilized) sells for 1099 dollars (versus 1949 dollars for the 2.8 version).
From top to bottom: Canon 70-200 mm f/4, Canon 70-200 f/2.8 and Tamron 70-200 f/2.8
Just like for Nikon cameras, Tamron lenses are excellent alternatives to Canon lenses – they are much more compact and oftentimes almost as powerful as the lenses they replace; they are also of a very robust construction. In this particular case, we are referring to the 24-70 mm f/2.8 Di VC USD (available from 804 dollars) and the SP AF 70-200 mm f/2.8 Di VC USD which can be purchased starting at 999 dollars. Sigma also offers the 24-70 mm f/2.8 HSM from 849 dollars and the 70-200 mm f/2.8 DG APO OS EX HSM starting at 1299 dollars.
Lastly, Canon offers a stabilized 24-105 mm f/4 lens which is often sold in a kit with certain high-end cameras such as the 7D or the 5D Mark III. This lens provides excellent quality (which is expected of the L series) and makes it possible to access those few extra millimeters of focal length which the 24-70 mm lens lacks. Sold starting at 697 dollars, this might be just the lens you that need on your APS-C or full frame camera.
As a general rule, Canon's L series lenses (professional product line) with a constant f/4 aperture opening are a safe bet and are among the lenses that we recommend the most. They have the advantage of being more affordable than other lenses with wider aperture openings.
Are you interested in entering the world of nature photography without going bankrupt? Tamron and Sigma both offer a 150-600 mm f/5-6.3 zoom of very good build-quality: 869$ for the Tamron lens and 849$ for the Sigma lens.
Are you interested in a wide angle zoom? We recommend the Canon 16-35 mm f/4 EF L IS USM which is not the most luminous, but its stabilization will allow you to gain a few precious f stops and its construction is exemplary, not to mention that it delivers very good image quality. However, with this lens you will need to be careful about the distortions and vignetting which occur at the 16 mm focal length. For APS-C sensors, Canon also offers another wide angle zoom: the 10-22 mm f/3.5-4.5 USM which, although it is more luminous, is quite compact and well-built. It can be purchased starting at 649$.
Pentax zooms
In the Pentax brand, two zooms are universally appreciated: the Pentax 17-70mm f/4 AL IF SDM and the Pentax 18-270 mm f/3.5-6.3 DA SDM.
Pentax 17-70mm f/4 AL IF SDM and Pentax 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 DA SDM
The first of these is a trans-standard zoom which is an excellent basic lens for a camera. Its fixed aperture and its slightly wider than 18-55 mm focal length range makes this a useful lens for most situations and its watertight gasket makes it a perfect adventure companion. Last but not least, this lens is also economical since it can be purchased starting at 423$.
On paper at least, the 18-270 mm lens has impeccable build-quality; it is also weatherproof and has an ultrasonic AF motor. However, this lens's most interesting feature is its zoom which provides x15 magnification. This is a very useful lens for "traveling light". It is being sold starting at 530$.
Sony zooms
Just as for Sony's fixed focal length lenses, in this section we will be making our recommendations based on FE format lenses, destined for Sony A7/R/S cameras.
From left to right: Sony 16-35 mm f/4, Sony 24-70 mm f/4 and Sony 70-200 mm f/4
At the moment, there are three very interesting zooms: the 24-70 mm f/4, the 70-200 mm f/4, and the 16-35 mm f/4. These three lenses are stabilized and have excellent optical quality and build-quality. However, none of these lenses – which have a maximum aperture of f/4 – are available for under 1000 dollars. In our opinion, this is a major limitation of the A7 system, which does not currently offer any f/2.8 zooms or any less expensive f/4 alternatives. Nevertheless, we hope that over the course of the year Sony will rethink its prices and release lenses which are able to compete with high-end Canon and Nikon models.
To find out more about lenses designed for Fujifilm, Olympus or Panasonic hybrid cameras, check out our photography buyer's guide entitled the best hybrid cameras and their lenses.
If you own a lens which does not appear in this list, but which you feel deserves to have a place in this buyer's guide, do not hesitate to suggest it in the comments section, alongside a description of how you use it. Our list is very general and does not cover specialized uses such as architecture photography (which requires tilt shift lenses), nature photography or macro photography, just to name a few.
In any case, and as a conclusion to this guide, we would just like to remind you to protect your lenses with a sun hood or an anti-UV filter, especially in wet or dusty conditions. Given how much these lenses cost, and how long you would ideally like them to last, it would be a real shame to damage them needlessly.
Read More:
Best Wide-angle lenses for landscape photography
Best Lenses for Nikon D3400
Best Lenses For Your Canon DSLR Camera
Best lenses for your Nikon DSLR Camera
How To Choose a Perfect Lens for Your DLSR Camera?


text:
Translating Song of the day: Stay with me – sam smith
Drink of the week: Goose 312
P.S. As always, the read chapter button is in the bottom right! Interested in seeing what some soul pets look like? Or maybe you want to snag a cool chong mei collectible, or a cyan dragon! Or maybeee you want to read just a litttleee ahead! Either way, hit up that patreon if you're interested 🙂
Chapter 145: Face Strong Opponent, Princess Joins the Battle
There was already a distinct disparity between the soul pets. It was no wonder that this white-clothed bodyguard could still go to battle with such a brash attitude even against Chu Ke, a top five expert within Western Kingdom. In that moment, a commotion started within the crowd!!
Nightmare Palace was still Nightmare Palace. Presumably it was such an expert that could truly reach for the title of strongest young expert within Western Kingdom.
"Battle, begin!"
With a command, this hair raising match finally started. On the battlefield, the Bloodsucking Terror Wolf with an absolute speed advantage started running through the vast stadium and right into Chu Ke's triple soul pet formation without any fear of the consequences!
Chu Ke's three soul pets obeyed the most mainstream soul pet composition. The combination of beast type, elemental fairy, and support plant type could be described as the most conservative yet most mainstream. As long as the difference in power wasn't humongous, it usually couldn't be breached.
Yet, at this moment, the white clothed bodyguard's Bloodsucking Terror Wolf completely displayed its overwhelming side. Bringing a thick aura of blood, it bypassed Chu Ke's wood type soul pet's control and forced Chu Ke to send his Light Rhinoceros up against the Bloodsucking Terror Wolf!
Ethereal blue devil fire silently burned in the middle of the stadium. The seventh phase sixth stage Blue Nightmare had one of the most proud bloodlines. It was like a devil king, standing apathetically there, uninterrupted in its channeling of destructive ghost devil fire!
Ghost devil fire had a soul burning effect close to white soul devil fire. Clearly, this Blue Nightmare had been strengthened to levels very near a normal monarch rank White Nightmare!
The scary ghost devil fire channeling was finally completed. Instantly, an ethereal blue fire light started and quickly became a tidal wave of ghost devil fire that rolled towards Chu Ke's plant type soul pet!
No temperature, no feel of burning, it was like a cold surge rolling forwards, causing one to shiver all over. The flame wave formed by the ghost devil fire was definitely eighth rank. Such degree of attack could definitely instantly kill a vast majority of top tier experts' soul pets!
Such an imposing attack shocked everyone, causing their eyes to watch dumbstruck as the eighth rank devil fire tide engulfed Chu Ke's soul pets!
Facing a powerful opponent, Chu Ke bit down hard on his teeth yet started chanting a soul technique incantation to cast Water Screen Battle Armor on his wood type soul pet, who was very afraid of the devil fire.
When the fire wave came, a few pained howls immediately sounded. The eighth level attack was something even the Light Rhinoceros, with its thickly padded defense, couldn't block!
The perfect combination of speed and power made the Bloodthirsty Terror Wolf the king of the entire battlefield. Adding on the evil and domineering Blue Nightmare, the white clothed bodyguard didn't even need to use any technique from his third soul pet in this battle. Relying on these two soul pets' strength, he forced Chu Ke to continuously cast soul techniques!
A soul pet trainer's soul power was very limited. The casting of any soul technique needed careful planning and pondering, yet this battle hadn't even reached the third minute and Chu Ke's soul power was almost spent. And without Chu Ke's soul techniques' support, his three soul pets could not possibly block the white clothed bodyguard's two soul pets' intensive assault!
Finally, when the battle reached the fifth minute, the signs of Chu Ke's defeat were clear. In the seventh minute, all three of Chu Ke's soul pets had been knocked out and had lost their ability to fight!
With only two soul pets and without casting any soul techniques, he still defeated the top five ranking Chu Ke within ten minutes. The intense shock this battle brought was extreme. Even long after the battle ended, the entire stadium was silent.
Facing the assault of soul devil fire, Chu Ke's soul also suffered from burning. He stood slightly shaking on the battlefield, watching the white clothed man unwillingly and angrily.
As a Western Kingdom top tier expert, Chu Ke had never thought he would lose, let alone lose when the opponent only summoned two soul pets. Such humiliation and difference was hard to accept for this experienced and arrogant young expert.
Chu Dian, who was spectating from aside, still hadn't recovered from his shock. His strength wasn't as good as Chu Ke. If even Chu Ke had lost, then him fighting would be meaningless too. And from the way things turned out in the battle, it was possible that even both of them together couldn't easily win the white clothed bodyguard.
Expert, a young expert that truly stood at the top of Western Kingdom! Yet, no one even knew this top tier young expert's name!
When Princess Jinrou just entered Great Chu Family, almost everyone thought the personal bodyguard was the recently famous Chu Mu, yet when the white clothed bodyguard said apathetically that they shouldn't relate him to such a third rate character, everyone was surprised that this white clothed bodyguard wasn't Chu Mu.
"There's still a team, right? I'm not in the mood to wait until the day after tomorrow, let those two onto the stage so I can get rid of them together." The white clothed bodyguard didn't even spare Chu Ke any extra looks and said insolently to the people in the crowd.
From where Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi sat, they could clearly feel the white clothed bodyguard was glaring at where they were, completed with an imperative tone!
The Great Chu Family's family master Chu Lieming seemed like he was normally. With an indifferent gaze, he said, "Nightmare Palace indeed is full of prodigies, and also never following rules. Since you've already beaten our strongest young expert Chu Ke, then there is no point in the other match.
"Chu family master, from what I see, the other team's two contestants are also very powerful. If they join forces, even my personal bodyguard may not be their match." Princess Jinrou said.
"There's no need for that. The expert Princess brought clearly can't find many opponents within the Western Kingdom anymore." Family master Chu Lieming said.
"Family master, since it is a fair contest, why do you take things into your own hands? They want to fight." Old Tu slowly opened his mouth to say.
"Oh?" Chu Lieming raised an eyebrow, showing a slightly shocked expression.
Princess Jinrou looked at Chu Mu who sat not far away and then specially looked at Ye Qingzi. The corners of her mouth lifted, revealing a mysterious smile.
Learning that Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi had to fight, almost everyone's gazes immediately congregated on them, watching astonished at the calm and composed duo!
The Princess's white clothed bodyguard's power was evident already. Even Chu Ke wasn't his match. How could these two still have courage or the qualifications to fight this expert who couldn't even find a match within all of Western Kingdom?!
"Chu Mu……" Sitting next to Chu Mu, Chu Qian immediately showed her worry. In reality, after Chu Mu defeated Chu Yue, Chu Qian felt like she almost knew nothing about Chu Mu. Now that he wanted to fight an expert that easily defeated Chu Ke, she inevitably felt a pang of worry as well as felt at lost as to who Chu Mu really was.
"Don't worry, without a challenge, there can't be growth." Chu Mu knew Chu Qian's emotions and said to her using his remembrance.
Seeing Chu Mu walk onto the stage under everyone's gazes, watching his firm and persistent back image, Chu Qian suddenly felt as if she were in two worlds from Chu Mu. The battlefield Chu Mu stepped into now was a height that she didn't even dare to hope for in her life. The only connection she had to him was simply a sentence of meaningless worry and care……
The stadium had become a mess due to Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi accepting the fight. Maybe no one would've thought the Great Chu Family competition would evolve into a battle between two teams that were barely from Great Chu Family. Yet, Chu Ke and Chu Dian, who were originally supposed to win, had become but side characters, standing aside with grudging resentment and regret.
"You two can go up together, in case you make the fight feel flavorless." The white clothed guard looked over Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi and said lightly.
Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi glanced at each other. In reality, when Chu Mu and Ye Qingzi decided to battle, they hadn't planned on fighting alone anyways.
Chu Mu's three soul pets, other than Mo Xie, could not possibly fight against this extremely powerful opponent. If Ye Qingzi didn't fight, Chu Mu would naturally not fight as well.
"Then, both sides summon soul pets……" The notary didn't really understand the situation either. Seeing the two sides enter the battlefield, he opened his mouth and announced.
"Wait……" Suddenly, a woman's voice spread through remembrance!
Everyone looked back, all confused as they looked at the Princess's personal maid.
Yet just as everyone was confused, the little Princess that all young people felt was mysterious yet felt a yearning for calmly stood from her position and, with the help of her maid, slowly untied her wind breaker!
A beautiful and moving body immediately appeared. Even without showing a single piece of skin, through the silk clothes, one could still feel the smoothness and fullness of the Princess's skin. The elegant curves under the luxurious and spacious clothing caused one's imagination to run wild!
This Princes Jinrou had a body that any man could hardly resist. One look could charm a person. Yet, her high up and royal quality made one not dare to think any overly profane thoughts.
"Princess, this is……" Chu Family family master was also surprised, not understanding why Princess Jinrou had suddenly taken off her wind breaker, as if she was entering battle.
"Chu family master, it isn't that Jinrou is intentionally belittling Chu Clan experts, but under my banner, there truly isn't two young experts……" Princess JInrou said with a slight smile.
Chu family master Chu Lieming was even more confused, so he said, "Don't you still have a King of Prison Island – Chu Mu by your side?"
"Chu Mu is indeed my personal bodyguard, but he is on stage already."
"Yet, the other contestant on my team will be me……"
The Princess lightly finished her sentence and, under the shocked and surprised gazes of everyone, took steps forwards into the battlefield like a gorgeous little cloud……

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Can you define your baby?
Probably not. There aren't enough words in the world that could describe how special and unique your baby is.
This is how we feel about our company BAD BOYS by ronio.
We started as a small advertising agency but very quickly, we found out that our vision goes way beyond the limits of an advertisement, and that we could not contain our creativity to a screen or magazine page.
So we spread our wings and set ourselves free.
To do what, you ask?
Basically, to do whatever we want! There are no limits and nothing to stop us.
Our vision of how to look at things spread from Media (TV, Movies, Radio and Music etc') and communication (mobile and web application) to advertising (concept, campaign, online, offline, BTL, etc') and everything in between.
Hey, we might even do more in the future. After all, we are very curious.
While we don't have any limits, we do have some ground rules:
- Be creative – never settle for the conventional. Always flip it upside down, left to right and inside out, until you see the full spectrum of the idea.
- Don't take the easy way, it's never that easy – we believe in hard work, only a vision that is born deep within your soul, has the spark to make it great.
- Think in ∞D– it's not only you, him/her and it. There are so much more dimensions in each project, and it's our job and passion to explore them all.
- Joy, Love & Faith – In our mind these three simple words are the essence of everything. Any project we create and work on is infused with them.
- Together is best – Only by combining our individual unique strengths can we create together a better life for all, and for that, we need to be communicative, honest, and generous.
We call our company BAD BOYS as a reminder to just how crazy and wild creativity can be. It's so unexpected and over the top, while some might think it's strange or "BAD"… We think it's amazing!
Come and join the BAD BOYS


text:
Elveflow® suction pump for high accuracy flow control in microfluidic chips
Elveflow® high precision suction pump generates and regulates negative pressure down to -600mBar ( -8.7 psi ) with a precision of 1mBar ( 0.0145 psi ). It can be used for a wide range of applications requiring aspiration such as cell manipulation using micropipette, patch clamp or microfluidic flow control using aspiration.
Autonomous: Integrated vacuum controller and suction pump
Transportable suction pump: weight 1.2kg, small size : 15x15x20 cm.
Quick setup: 5 min for the first installation, setup a new experiment in 2 minutes.
High precision suction pump: 1 mbar tuning suction precision ( 0.0145 psi ).
USB control option: Control suction flow in your microchip with your computer and Elveflow® proprietary software
Four independent outlets : Get four independent outlets for your suction control(optional)
Both suction and flow rate control and monitoring: No more need to choose between negative pressure control or flow rate control
Elveflow® suction pump allows to setup a scientific experiment using aspiration force in minutes.
Getting the best from your suction pump
Suction pump warm up
During the first 15 minutes of utilization, the pressure of the vacuum source could change due to the components warm-up. To get optimal performance we recommend turning on the vacuum source at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your microfluidic experiment.
Small pressure shifts when opening the valve of the suction pump
When opening the valve for the first time after setting the suction pressure with the tuning button, the displayed pressure temporarily shifts by one or 2 mbar. This comes from the fact that the membrane of the internal vacuum regulator changes position with the first opening of the outlet. This phenomenon does not occur for further valve switches.
Elveflow® suction pump for high accuracy flow control in microfluidic chips
We provide the only microfluidic flow control system using Piezo technology that enables a blazing fast flow change in your microdevice.


text:
Tempering Process for CV joints
Heat Treatment on CV Joints
The Constant Velocity Joint is one of the many successful examples of high-speed convection tempering. Furnace design is a key factor in the performance of high-speed tempering processes. Our precision heat transfer has been demonstrated many times with numerous customers in America and Europe. The CV Joint story began in 1999 with the acceptance of high-speed convection tempering at Ford Motor Company. With an aggressive 10-minute cycle time, manual part handling was eliminated, and work-in-process reduced by 90%.
Many American and European CVJ suppliers replaced their in-line induction tempering process with Pyromaitre's high-speed convection technology. As the induction tempering process used to be bottleneck, its elimination allowed for almost a doubling of line capacity. Pyromaître ovens with 10 to 35-minute tempering and recirculating air coolers were integrated to deliver a considerable return on a modest capital investment.


text:
I can't tell you what was different this time around, only that when I woke up, I felt deader than usual. Awake, yeah, but completely empty, like someone had been feasting on my blood. (1.6)
Finch's last depressive episode really took something out of him. It sounds like his illness is getting worse, not better.
I smile so she can see what I mean. Everything where it should be, on the outside at least. (1.26)
Finch implies that there's something wrong on the inside, where people can't see. We soon learn that's true.
The fact is, I was sick, but not in an easily explained flu kind of way. It's my experience that people are a lot more sympathetic if they can see you hurting, and for the millionth time in my life I wish for measles or smallpox or some other recognizable disease just to make it simple for me and also for them. (1.86)
One of the problems with mental illness is there's no "proof" on the surface, where people can see. That doesn't mean it's not real, though.
"I get these headaches sometimes. No big deal." This isn't an out-and-out lie, because the headaches are part of it. It's like my brain is firing so fast that it can't keep up with itself. Words. Colors. Sounds. (18.8)
Here Finch describes his manic episodes. Notice he only tells Violet about the headache part and keeps the rest to himself.
Sometimes there are warnings. Sound, of course, and headaches, but I've also learned to look out for things like changes in space, as in the way you see it, the way it feels. (18.17)
Finch has come to recognize the signs of his depressive episodes. As readers, we see him experiencing some of them later in the book.
If he's in the basement, it can only mean one thing. He's in one of his moods, as Mom calls them. (21.4)
Finch says his dad has black moods, which basically involve lots of screaming and physical abuse. We know that Finch has violent tendencies. Maybe it runs in the family.
Upstairs, I brave Decca's chamber of horrors to make sure she's okay. …I find her on the floor, cutting words out of books she's collected from around the house. (21.59-21.60)
When Finch's little sister is upset, she cuts all the "mean parts" out of every book she can find. That sounds an awful lot like something Finch would do. Is it possible she's showing signs of bipolar disorder, too?
She'll tell me to help myself to the Advil in her purse and that I need to relax and stop getting so worked up, because in this house there's no such thing as being sick unless you can measure it with a thermometer under the tongue. (25.7)
Finch is telling all the kids all across the land: Take it from him, parents just don't understand.
"What do you know about bipolar disorder?" I almost say, What do you know about it? But I make myself breathe and smile. "Is that the Jekyll-Hyde thing?" My voice sounds flat and event. Maybe a little bored, even though my mind and body are on alert. (41.36)
In his last meeting with Finch, the school counselor broaches the topic of bipolar disorder. Why do you think Finch acts disinterested?
I want to get away from the stigma they all clearly feel just because they have an illness of the mind as opposed to, say, an illness of the lungs or blood. (44.17)
Though Finch recognizes how the stigma of mental illness affects people in the suicide support group he attends, he doesn't seem to see how it holds him back in his own life.
The nightmares started after the accident. She asks about them every time I see her, because I made the mistake of mentioning them to my mom, who mentioned them to her. This is one of the main reasons why I'm here and why I've stopped telling my mom anything. (2.9)
Violet doesn't feel like she can talk to her parents, especially after her mom rats her out to the school counselor.
Mom is suddenly listening. "Decca." She shakes her head. This is the extent of her parenting. Ever since my dad left, she's tried really hard to be the cool parent. (3.65)
Finch's mom has had a hard time since his dad left the family. As a result, she hasn't been very present as a parent.
Like Ryan, my parents are perfect. They are strong and brave and caring, and even though I know they must cry and get angry and maybe even throw things when they're alone, they rarely show it to me. (5.57)
Violet's parents are perfect…maybe a little too perfect. Sometimes she longs for them to show some real emotion about Eleanor's death.
I told Principal Wertz my dad was killed in a hunting accident. He never bothered to check up on it, and now he calls my mother whenever there's a problem, which means he actually calls Kate because Mom never bothers to check voicemail. (8.8)
Kate, posing as Finch's mom, got him out of school for six weeks, among other things. Sometimes Finch himself deletes voicemail that were meant for his mom.
My mother sighs in relief before taking another drink and going after her. She does her best parenting on Sundays. (8.28)
There are lots of hints that Finch's mom is an alcoholic. That said, is it just us, or is this passage sort of mean?
But it's not just a headache I feel, I can see it, like it's made up of a million colors, all of them blinding. When I tried to describe it to Kate once she said, "You can thank Dad for that. Maybe if he hadn't used your head as a punching bag." (18.8)
This is the first time Finch mentions his father's abuse. It sounds like Finch's injuries may be tied to his bipolar disorder.
I hold up my hands and they're shaking, because my hands, like the rest of me, would like to kill my father. Ever since I was ten and he sent Mom to the hospital with a busted chin, and then a year later when it was my turn. (21.19)
So Finch's dad is a wife beater, too. Wow. What a charmer.
I walk all the way to Violet's, where we build the world's largest snowman. […] Afterward, we sit with her parents around the fire and I pretend I'm part of the family. (32.1)
More than once, Finch mentions how jealous he is of how close Violet is with her family. While we can see where he's coming from, it's a little unfair. Violet's sister just died, after all.
I take a deep breath and dive, grateful for the dark of the water and the warmth against my skin. I swim to get away from Josh Raymond, and my cheating father, and Violet's involved parents who are also her friends, and my sad, deserted mother, and my bones. (32.31)
A lot of the stress in Finch's life comes from his problems with his family. When he contemplates suicide, all of that melts away.
On the big side, my family could be better, but I'm not the only kid who feels that way. At least they haven't thrown me out on the street. (41.12)
Eventually, Finch throws himself out on the street. Do you think things would have been different if he had been closer with his family?
"Do you believe you're responsible for what happened?" I tug on the bangs now. They are lopsided. "No." She sits back. Her smile slips a fraction of an inch. We both know I'm lying. (2.28-2.30)
Violet feels responsible for the death of her sister, Eleanor. Why is she lying to her counselor?
My mother blames our bad behavior on the divorce and my dad. She says we just need time to work through it. (3.70)
Finch's mom blames his dad for a lot of things. She doesn't take any responsibility for her children's problems—or their wellbeing.
"Isn't it nice to have your brother back, Decca?" She says it as if I'm in danger of disappearing again, right in front of their eyes. The slightly blaming note in her voice makes me cringe…. (3.72)
Finch feels a lot of guilt for what he puts people through. We blame his bipolar disorder, not him.
I can't even think of my parents, forced to deal with the death of their only remaining child. Not even an accidental death, but an intentional one. That's one reason I came tonight without a fight. I feel ashamed of what I almost put them through. (5.22)
Violet wasn't thinking about her parents when she was standing on that ledge, but she sure is thinking about them now.
The act of writing…makes me feel as if I'm cheating on her. Maybe because I'm here and she's not, and the whole thing—every big or small moment I've lived since last April—feels like cheating in some way. (13.51)
Why does Violet blame herself for her sister's death, anyway?
"You deserve better. I can't promise you I'll stay around, not because I don't want to. It's hard to explain. I'm a fuckup. I'm broken, and no one can fix it. I've tried. I'm still trying. I can't love anyone because it's not fair to anyone who loves me back." (32.56)
Finch doesn't think he deserves love. But Violet loves him just the way he is.
I ride past her house and continue across town to Finch's, and the whole thing is so easy, even though I have this weird stitch in my chest because I just lied to my parents. (38.23)
Violet sneaks around with Finch after her parents forbid her from seeing him. Hey, at least she has the grace to feel bad about it.
"Are you feeling okay?" I try not to sound like the blaming girlfriend. Why won't you spend time with me? Why won't you call me back? Don't you like me anymore? (45.22)
Sometimes Violet feels like she's walking on eggshells with Finch. It makes it hard for her to ask him certain questions, such as "Why are you sleeping in your bedroom closet?"
I don't go for her or for her dad or for Kate or for Decca. I go for me. Maybe because I know whatever I find will be my fault. (53.1)
Just as Violet felt responsible for her sister's death, she feels responsible for Finch's. That's a lot of guilt to carry around.
They are no longer mad at me, because they're furious with Mrs. Finch, and probably Finch too, although they haven't said so. My dad, as usual, is more outspoken than my mom, and I overhear him talking about That woman…. (54.3)
Violet's parents blame Finch's mother for his death. They don't know that Finch went to great lengths to hide his illness from her.
Maybe, if I wear the glasses long enough, I can be like her. I can see what she saw. I can be both of us at once so no one will have to miss her, most of all me. (2.49)
After her sister's death, Violet wears Eleanor's glasses as a way to see the world through her eyes. They just give her a headache, though.
"He's a gentleman." There aren't many people who would say this about me, but the great thing about this life of ours is that you can be someone different to everybody. (3.41)
Do you think that Finch is someone different to everybody?
I fish through my desk for a cigarette, stick it in my mouth, and remember as I'm reaching for my lighter that Theodore Finch, '80s kid, doesn't smoke. God, I hate him, the clean-cut, eager little prick. (3.55)
When Finch changes his image, he really goes for it, down to habits. It's sort of like method acting, but for real life.
The walls are lined with school photos. Finch in kindergarten. Finch in middle school. He looks different every year, not just agewise but personwise. Class-clown Finch. Awkward Finch. Cocky Finch. Jock Finch. (11.16)
We like this image of the Wall of Many Finches. It's sad, though, that Finch never felt like he found himself.
I…catch sight of myself in the mirror…I lean in and look at myself, and it's not my face but someone else's. (21.78)
Sometimes Finch can't even recognize himself. Is that a symptom of his bipolar disorder?
"By the way? Ryan Cross is a kleptomaniac. He steals stuff for fun. And not even things he wants, but everything. His room looks like one of those rooms on Hoarders. Just in case you thought he was perfect." (32.60)
Well, well, well. The Bartlett High dreamboat is a secret criminal. We knew Ryan couldn't be that perfect.
I love…the way she looks at me as if there's only me, as if she can see past the flesh and bone and bullshit right into the me that's there, the one I don't even see myself. (40.79)
It's true that, on some level, Violet sees Finch more clearly than he sees himself. On another level, there are things he hides from her that make him hard to know.
Amanda, as Rachel, avoids looking at me. In a wooden voice she recites, "I'm Rachel, I'm seventeen, I'm bulimic, and I tried to kill myself twice, both times with pills. I hide myself away with smiles and gossip." (44.15)
Looks like Finch isn't the only one hiding his mental illness. The big reveal of Amanda's secret is sort of awful, though, considering she's so mean to Finch for being a "freak."
Which of my feelings are real? Which of the mes is me? There is only one me I've ever really liked, and he was good and awake as long as he could be. (49.2)
Finch's identity is so fractured or broken. He doesn't have a strong sense of self. He feels lost.
Will other people be able to tell? I take a picture with my phone, fake smiling as I pose, and when I look at it, there's Violet Markey. I could post it on Facebook right now, and no one would know that I took it After instead of Before. (54.2)
It's worth remembering that the selves people post to Facebook and Instagram aren't necessarily representative of real life.
Is today a good day to die? This is something I ask myself in the morning when I wake up. In third period when I'm trying to keep my eyes open while Mr. Schroeder drones on and on. At the supper table as I'm passing the green beans. At night when I'm lying awake…. (1.1-1.2)
Finch thinks about killing himself most, if not all, of the time. He doesn't talk about it, though. We just know because we can read his thoughts.
I delete her notes and mine. I delete the hosting company email. And then I empty my trash so that the email is as dead and gone as Eleanor. (7.5)
Violet feels like her words died with her sister. Eventually, we see them come back to life. Hmm, does that mean they're technically zombies?
"I feel we can't go through another of those terrible times. Especially when there is so much else to do." The quote is from Virginia Woolf's suicide note to her husband, but I think it fits the occasion. (8.47)
Finch quotes not just Virginia Woolf, but Virginia Woolf's suicide letter in one of his first messages to Violet. This dude is intense.
"There's a built-in ending to everything in the world, right? I mean, a hundred-watt lightbulb is designed to last seven hundred and fifty hours. The sun will die in about five billion years. We all have a shelf life." (20.45)
Finch talks about death as a natural phenomenon. And it's true: All things come to an end.
It takes strength to push myself up, because I need air by now, badly. The panic comes back, stronger this time, and then I aim myself for the surface. …I'm sorry, Violet. I won't leave you again. (32.37)
Finch makes at least two suicide attempts that we see before the final one, which we don't see. We know he fought to stay alive.
Note to self: Suicide is not a laughing matter, particularly for authority figures who are in any way responsible for you. (41.33)
Finch has a real sense of humor about his problems. It's partly a defense mechanism, but it's partly just his personality.
I think of the mud nest we made for the cardinal, all those years ago, and wonder if it's still there. I imagine his little bones in his little grave, and it is the saddest thought in the world. (43.2)
One time, in Finch's childhood, a bird died. He has a real hangup about this event. We probably hear this story half a dozen times.
I push my limbs through the doors of the emergency room and say to the first person I see, "I swallowed pills and can't get them out of me. Get them out of me." (43.18)
This is Finch's second suicide attempt. Why does he change his mind at the last minute?
This isn't a nature class, but a support group for teens who are thinking about, or have attempted, or have survived, suicide. I found it on the internet. (44.1)
Finch goes to a suicide support group that's supposed to be uplifting, but it leaves him feeling more depressed than ever. He didn't like the cookies, for one thing.
At school the entire student body seems to be in mourning. There is a lot of black being worn, and you can hear sniffling in every classroom. Someone has built a shrine to Finch…. (55.1)
Violet is mad by how her classmates react to Finch's death. She thinks they're hypocrites.
"Let me ask you something. Do you think there's such a thing as a perfect day?"
"A perfect day. Start to finish. When nothing terrible or sad or ordinary happens. Do you think it's possible?" (1.52-1.54)
Finch is obsessed with the idea of a perfect day. He tells Violet that he found one with her.
This time last year, I would have loved to talk about college. Eleanor and I used to do this sometimes after Mom and Dad had gone to bed. (2.17)
Violet's co-conspirator was Eleanor. They always talked about their hopes, dreams, and plans. After Eleanor died, those dreams died with her.
Since the summer before seventh grade, NYU's creative writing program has been my dream. […] My plan was to apply for early admission in October. But then the accident happened and I changed my mind. (2.19)
Violet says she crossed NYU off her list because of snow (which she now hates). Do you think there's anything else going on here?
And then below these giant white letters are column after column, line after line, that say Before I die I want to ______. And the blanks have been filled in with different colors of chalk, smudged and half melted from the rain and snow, in all different handwriting. (17.5)
It turns out Violet wants to drive again. Finch wants to meet Boy Parade and kiss Violet. He gets one of those wishes, anyway.
Even though it isn't much yet, I take a picture and send it to Finch. I write: Look what you've got me doing. (22.6)
Finch gets Violet writing again by tricking her into taking notes for their school project. Eventually, it leads to her planning a new web magazine.
Then we're under the blanket again, discussing all the places in the world we want to wander […] Without consulting the computer, we list the places we might go, taking turns. (38.28, 38.32)
Violet and Finch make plans for their future, traveling together beyond the confines of Indiana. It doesn't happen for him, but she still hopes to wander.
She sets down the bucket and undoes the latch. For a few seconds, all she does is breathe in the scent of the flowers, and then she turns to me and, without a word, kisses me. When she pulls away, she says, "No more winter at all. Finch, you brought me spring." (40.78)
During a manic episode, Finch makes a grand romantic gesture of bringing Violet flowers. They represent hope.
As she exhales, she says, "He's supposed to go to NYU, you know."
"Theo." […] "He got early acceptance." (52.29-52.30)
Ironically, Finch was going to go to NYU, which was once Violet's dream school. Now, neither of them will be going (unless Violet transfers there later).
Theodore Finch, April 3. "Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away!" (56.29)
Finch and Violet are all about Oh, the Places You'll Go!, the Dr. Seuss book. Finch knew the words by heart.
I think of my own epitaph, still to be written, and all the places I'll wander. No longer rooted, but gold, flowing. I feel a thousand capacities spring up in me. (59.6)
The book ends on a hopeful note, with Violet looking toward the future. We're happy for her.
But I haven't touched the site since Eleanor died, because what would be the point? It was a site about sisters. Besides, in that instant we went plowing through the guardrail, my words died too. (2.22)
Violet gave up her web magazine after Eleanor's death. Eventually, she starts writing a new one—a sign of positive change in her life.
I think of how many girls would love to receive a note like this from Ryan Cross. The Violet Markey of last spring would have been one of them. (2.54)
Violet had just starting going out with Ryan when her sister died. She tries to go out with him a few times after that, but the magic is gone.
Amanda used to be one of my closest friends, but ever since April, I've drifted away from her. Since I quit cheering, we don't have much in common. I wonder if we ever did. (5.2)
Eventually, Violet and Amanda rekindle their friendship. The second time around, they come to it as different people. Violet has experienced loss, and Amanda has "come out" as bulimic and suicidal.
I take a good long look at her. I know life well enough to know you can't count on things staying around or standing still, no matter how much you want them to. (18.11)
Even when Finch is feeling fine, he knows a change is coming. He tries to make the good moments count.
"This morning, your parents painted a pretty good picture of the you you used to be. That other Violet sounds fun and kind of badass, even if she had horrible taste in music. Now I see someone who's too afraid to get back out there." (16.12)
Violet experiences a lot of shifts in her own personality and behavior after her sister's death. Eventually, these even out, though she's still sad.
"We just weren't sure…we didn't know if we'd ever see you drive again. The accident changed a lot of things and it took a lot of things." (45.4)
Violet's behavior changed pretty dramatically after her sister's death. She wouldn't drive or even ride in a car for nearly a year.
Like that, the smile is gone. "I can't help it. It's what I am. I warned you this would happen." His voice turns cold instead of angry, which is worse because it's like he's stopped feeling. (48.75)
Finch has wild mood swings. Those changes are a symptom of his bipolar disorder, which isn't his fault. Still, he blames himself.
Even when they bring the body up, swollen and bloated and blue, I think: That's not him. That's someone else. This swollen, bloated, blue thing with the dead, dead skin is not anyone I know or recognize. (53.27)
This change in Finch is the hardest one to stomach, both for Violet and for us.
I stand in front of the mirror and study my face. …It is the face of a sad, lonely girl something bad has happened to. I wonder if my face will ever look the same again, or if I'll always see it in my reflection—Finch, Eleanor, loss, heartache, guilt, death. (54.1)
Violet feels fundamentally changed by the deaths of people close to her.
Your hope lies in accepting your life as it now lies before you, forever changed. If you can do that, the peace you seek will follow. Forever changed. I am forever changed. (55.24-55.26)
Violet doesn't feel happy about the changes in her life, or even understand them. She does, however, accept them.
"I suggest a field trip. We need to see the wondrous sights of Indiana while we still can, because at least three of us in this room are going to graduate and leave our great state at the end of this year…." (3.11)
Finch is all about field trips, but Mr. Black is a step ahead of him. He wants his students to take more than one field trip around the glorious state of Indiana.
"You'll be departing our…great state, and before…you do, you should…see it. You should…wander…." (3.13)
Just FYI, this is how Mr. Black talks. (We didn't leave anything out.) He wants his students to gather their rosebuds while they may.
I've got a map in my car that wants to be used, and I think there are places we can go that need to be seen. Maybe no one else will ever visit them and appreciate them or take the time to think they're important, but maybe even the smallest places mean something. (3.84)
Finch is pretty, pretty, pretty excited about this road trip. So excited that he sent the longest chat ever in the history of chatting, excerpted here.
We alternate choosing places to go, but we also have to be willing to go where the road takes us. This means the grand, the small, the bizarre, the poetic, the beautiful, the ugly, the surprising. Just like life. (4.4)
This is one of Finch's "rules for wandering." Life is a highway, etc.
Then his voice turns light again and he is singing the words. You'll find the bright places where the Boom Bands are playing. (20.34-20.35)
By now, you probably recognize this quote (from Oh, the Places You'll Go!). That book is all about exploring life—and this one is, too.
I tell myself that we can just take off in Little Bastard and head west or east, north or south, till we've left Indiana far behind. We'll wander the country and then the world, just Theodore Finch and me. (38.9)
Violet and Finch fantasize about a road trip, but it never happens.
Even when we weren't wandering, even from the floor of your closet, you showed the world to me. (55.57)
We're pretty impressed that Finch managed to lure his normal otherwise normal girlfriend into the closet where he was living. Now, that's charm.
And then I find it in my bag, on my third time checking, as if it appeared out of thin air. I spread it out and look at the remaining points that are circled. There are five more places to see on my own. (55.63)
Needless to say, Violet goes to these five places, where Finch has left little signs and gifts for her to see. It's sad, but it brings her some comfort.
I don't need to worry that Finch and I never filmed our wanderings. It's okay that we didn't collect souvenirs or that we never had time to pull it all together in a way that made sense to anyone else but us. The thing I realize is that it's not what you take, but it's what you leave. (58.44-58.45)
It's comforts Violet to know that, while she doesn't have a ton of photos or anything like that, she has memories of Finch. She vows to remember him even though it hurts.
I think of my own epitaph, still to be written, and all the places I'll wander. (59.6)
Instead of, say, crawling into a hole to cry, Violet has decided she still has some stuff to see. Brava.


text:
Join the community [
Login / Register
Trailer for "Midnight Special" Sci-Fi Film, with Michael Shannon and Joel Edgerton
Nov 23rd, 2015
Trailer for "Central Intelligence" Comedy, with Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart
Nov 23rd, 2015
Trailer for Melissa McCarthy's "The Boss" Comedy
Nov 23rd, 2015
Trailer for Juan Antonio Bayona's "A Monster Calls"
Nov 23rd, 2015
First Look at "Central Intelligence" Comedy, with Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart
Nov 19th, 2015
Trailer for "Zoolander 2" Arrives Online
Nov 19th, 2015
Official Trailer for "Now You See Me" Sequel
Nov 19th, 2015
Trailer for Chris Hemsworth's "The Huntsman: Winter's War"
Nov 19th, 2015
Trailer for Keanu Reeves' "Exposed" Thriller
Nov 19th, 2015
First Look at Chris Pine on "Wonder Woman" Set
Nov 16th, 2015
Ridley Scott Reveals Another Title for "Prometheus" Sequel
Nov 16th, 2015
Gerard Butler is a God in "Gods of Egypt" Posters
Nov 16th, 2015
First Look at Liam Neeson in Martin Scorsese's "Silence"
Nov 16th, 2015
New Trailer for "The Divergent Series: Allegiant"
Nov 16th, 2015
Trailer for "Moonwalkers" Comedy, with Ron Perlman and Rupert Grint
Nov 16th, 2015
Trailer for Charlie Kaufman's "Anomalisa" Stop-Motion Film
Nov 3rd, 2015
Poster for "Warcraft" Arrives Online, Trailer Coming on Friday
Nov 3rd, 2015
There's a Good Reason Why Luke Skywalker Isn't on "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Poster
Nov 2nd, 2015
First Trailer for Sacha Baron Cohen's "The Brothers Grimsby" Comedy
Nov 2nd, 2015
"Spectre" Breaks Box Office Records Overseas
Nov 2nd, 2015
Final Trailer for Ron Howard's "In the Heart of the Sea," with Chris Hemsworth
Nov 2nd, 2015
New Photos From "Warcraft" Video Game Movie
Nov 2nd, 2015
Lots of New Photos From "Suicide Squad"
Oct 30th, 2015
Trailer for "Dirty Grandpa" Comedy, with Robert De Niro and Zac Efron
Oct 30th, 2015
Sandra Bullock to Star in Female Version of "Ocean's Eleven"
Oct 30th, 2015
Trailer for Jared Hess' "Don Verdean" Comedy, with Sam Rockwell
Oct 30th, 2015
"Indiana Jones" Producer Says Harrison Ford Will Not Be Recast
Oct 28th, 2015
Trailer for Adam Sandler's "The Ridiculous 6" Comedy
Oct 28th, 2015
"The Walking Dead" Fan Kills Friend Who Turned Into a Zombie
Oct 28th, 2015
Another "Monopoly" Movie in the Works
Oct 28th, 2015
"Jumanji" Remake Hires "Con Air" Writer
Oct 26th, 2015
Disney's "Tower of Terror" Park Ride Movie Moving Forward
Oct 26th, 2015
Johnny Depp and Edgar Wright Team for "Fortunately, the Milk"
Oct 26th, 2015
Trailer for "The Longest Week" Comedy, with Jason Bateman and Olivia Wilde
Posted: July 30th, 2014 by
WorstPreviews.com Staff
Today we have a trailer for the upcoming "The Longest Week" romantic comedy, starring Jason Bateman, Olivia Wilde, Billy Crudup and Jenny Slate. Check it out below.
Plot: The story follows Conrad Valmont (Bateman), a man easing into adulthood at the age of 40. The over-educated, under-employed heir to the Valmont Hotel fortune, Conrad is cut off from his allowance following his parents' abrupt divorce and tossed out into the unforgiving streets of the Upper West Side. Luckily, he is taken in by his old friend Dylan (Crudup) and returns the favor by immediately falling for Dylan's girlfriend, Beatrice (Wilde). As Conrad attempts to woo Beatrice while keeping both their relationship and his bank balance secret, Dylan tries to set him up with Jocelyn (Slate). Ever committed to the charade that he eventually finds difficult to maintain, Conrad quickly realizes his charm can only extend so far.
The new movie directed by Peter Glanz and will be available On Demand and in select theaters on September 5th.
Source: Apple
You must be registered to post comments.
Turn On
on July 30th, 2014 at 6:53:09 AM
This is exactly what we need: another movie "hilariously" celebrating the middle-aged manchild.
on July 30th, 2014 at 8:25:51 AM
Another story about a looser who gets to meet a beautiful woman.
Yeah, that always work!
on July 30th, 2014 at 9:14:10 AM
"loser", not "looser"
and you claim you're british :(
on July 30th, 2014 at 9:20:02 AM
The British have retards, too, e.g., David Cameron.
on July 30th, 2014 at 9:41:37 AM
And that is why I need a f*cking edit button!
Bugger me!
on July 30th, 2014 at 1:38:48 PM
already saw this is 40...don't need to see it again
on October 5th, 2017 at 1:29:47 AM
40 жасында ересек адамның өмірін жеңілдететін Конрад Вальмонт (Bateman) әңгімесі болды. Вальмонт
judi togel
қонақүйінің байлығын білетін, жұмыс істемейтін, мұрагері болған Конрад өзінің ата-анасының ажырасып кетуінен кейін оның жәрдемақыынан айырылады. Жоғарғы Вест-Сайттағы кешірімсіз көшелерге шығып кетеді. Бақытымызға орай, оның ескі досы Дилан (Crudup) оны қабылдап, Диланның досы Беатриса (Уайльд) үшін құлдырап, пайдасын қайтарады.
on November 3rd, 2017 at 1:28:35 PM
situs judi poker
on November 4th, 2017 at 1:27:50 AM
agen sbobet terpercaya
on November 10th, 2017 at 11:50:31 PM
Situs Judi poker ace
on January 2nd, 2018 at 3:58:41 AM
agen sbobet terpercaya
on January 16th, 2018 at 1:58:11 AM
agen sbobet terpercaya
Place your ad here
"Spectre" Breaks Box Office Records Overseas
There's a Good Reason Why Luke Skywalker Isn't on "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Poster
Ridley Scott Reveals Another Title for "Prometheus" Sequel
Paul Bettany Responds to Jason Statham's "Avengers" Insult
Johnny Depp and Edgar Wright Team for "Fortunately, the Milk"
"The Walking Dead" Fan Kills Friend Who Turned Into a Zombie
"The Flash" Movie Hires Director
"Indiana Jones" Producer Says Harrison Ford Will Not Be Recast
Sandra Bullock to Star in Female Version of "Ocean's Eleven"
Another "Monopoly" Movie in the Works
Lace Wedding Dresses
from ViViDress UK online shop, buy with confidence and cheap price.
Hosted by
pair Networks
News Feeds
Box Office
Movie Reviews
Buzz: Top 100
Popularity: Top 100
Poster Store
About Us
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Web Tools
Site Map
Copyright © 2009 WorstPreviews.com. All rights reserved


text:
We have recently meet with our Account Manager from 'Exclusive Hotels', which is made up of 6 privately owned properties.
All 6 venues have 4 Michelin stars. The Spa at Penny Hill Park is in the top 10 Spas in the UK. This venue also boasts a 16 seat cinema and an interactive bakery.
Steve Edwards, the Chef at South Lodge won master chef professionals last year. South Lodge has a 20 seat video conference suite and an outdoor cinema. Lainston House has it's own Avery and there is a 24 station cookery school opening at Lainston House during 2015.
If you are looking for an exclusive venue either to treat your team or get away from the hussle and bustle any of these venues will provide a perfect destination. Contact our team now for more information and check availability and rates on 01562 829 939


text: Dr. Sack is featured in the May 2013 issue of Parenting Magazine – School Years in the STICKY SITUATION column. Parents want to know how they should respond if, or when, their child asks if they have ever used drugs. Dr. Sack is quoted saying, "Give an honest answer or don't answer at all. However, you do not have to share every grim detail. A general response will suffice: You grew up during a time when drugs were more accepted and people didn't take them as seriously and understand their dangers as well. You can even make this part of the conversation. Have you ever felt pressured to make a bad decision or done something you later regretted? The important point is not whether you used drugs, but that you don't want your child to use drugs, and the reasons why."


text:
"New year, new me!" – proudly shouted a billion people all across the world, and then promptly kicked their New Year's resolutions the next day.
But not you. Not today, not tomorrow. You will keep your New Year's resolutions this year. You will hold yourself accountable. You will take full responsibility for your actions. You will make yourself proud. Read more 5 min


text:
Derby debutant Matthew Lowton says the Clarets will go into Saturday's Turf Moor clash against Blackburn Rovers with the same positive approach.
Lowton watched Scott Arfield's stunning winner at Ewood Park in October from the substitute's bench in his first experience of the East Lancashire rivalry.
And the full-back is looking forward to being in the thick of the action as Burnley look to extend their unbeaten sequence against Rovers to six games.
He said: "I was on the bench at Blackburn and when we were driving into Ewood on the coach, you could see the large number of fans on the streets and in the ground.
"It was obvious what the game meant to everyone, so I'm expecting another passionate day.
"But for us, we go into every game with the intention of getting three points, and this game is the same.
"Of course, the day is a big occasion for fans, but we are just concentrated on playing well, pressing hard and doing our most to get the win.
The former Aston Villa defender is no stranger to big derby spectacles, winning his last two for his former club.
Lowton added: "I remember playing West Brom twice last season in the space of a week; in the cup on a Tuesday night and then in the league on Saturday, winning both games.
"It was a great for the players and the fans and I always enjoy derby games because there's a lot riding on them.
"But we are top of the table, flying high, so I see no reason we can't get another valuable three points on Saturday."
Blackburn go into Saturday's fixture on the back of a 2-1 win against promotion rivals Middlesbrough, leaving the North East club a point behind the Clarets ahead of their own home game against Wolves tonight.
Lowton added: "It was a rare occasion on Tuesday night wanting Blackburn to win, but it shows as long as we keep winning games and putting in solid performances, it will be tough for other teams to keep up with us.
"We were far from our best last weekend, but we showed a lot of grit and determination, and when we went a goal down we didn't crumble, we hung in there and our hard work on the training ground meant that our fitness and quality prevailed in the end."
The Clarets enjoyed a fruitful February, keeping four clean sheets in six games and conceding just two goals in the calendar month; a feat Lowton is keen to continue in a crucial March.
He said: "We have been solid at the back and it's an old cliché, but if you keep clean sheets you have a great chance of winning the game.
"The manager was obviously a defender himself and he has done a lot of work defensively with us, not just with the defenders but with the whole team and it will be nice to start this month with another clean sheet.
"We like to build from a strong base as we have a lot of pace and quality throughout the team, so we know that if we do our bit defensively, we will always create chances to score goals like we have done all season."
Club News
Lowton Relishing Derby Debut
4 March 2016
Advertisement block


text:
For many couples, the holidays are the perfect time to open their home to guests. Whether it's family from out of town or old friends, there's nothing like having everyone under one roof. But, as anyone who has hosted knows, it's not always as easy as it seems — especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements. We've partnered with Sleep Number to find out what advice experienced couples have for new hosts planning to bunk up, so this holiday season you can be ready for anything.
Alice and Will
"Hosting our first Thanksgiving in 2016 with my husband's family was super overwhelming. I got totally stressed out at one point and my husband had to talk me down with a giant gin and tonic. I was so stressed about the food and logistics of the holiday, I forgot about what really mattered.
My advice is to have a sacred space away from guests. For us, that is our bedroom and our bed. This is where we recharge when we need a break and where we get much needed restful sleep."
Theresa and Alex
"We love hosting our friends for the holidays, whether it's Halloween or New Year's. Since moving in to our home, we've had plenty of trials and tribulations, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements. Some of our friends haven't grown out of crashing on the floor, but we want them to be able to sleep comfortably.
For our guest bedrooms, we always make sure to have clean sheets and a nightlight in the bathroom for any late night visits. Since we often have more people than we do beds, we also have plenty of throw blankets and pillows.."
John and Ray
"Last year was our first Friendsgiving for all our orphan New York City friends. Everything turned out pretty great, but we agreed on much smaller holiday parties moving forward, at least until we're not crammed like sardines in a New York apartment.
For people who try to host to similar capacity, remember you'll get friends wanting to invite other friends. Don't be afraid to say 'no' if you really are overwhelmed and have invited too many people, especially if they plan on sleeping over. Given our space, (a wall-less loft) we have a no sleepover policy for our dear NY friends. But, if you have the space go for it."
Austin and Lilia
"We host people around the holidays very often. Most recently, we had guests for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Last year, we had one guest travel all the way from Dubai all in the name of getting the 'perfect American Thanksgiving picture' for Instagram.
It was close quarters so we had guests crashing on the couch, but we still provided fresh sheets and new pillows. We also recommend having an extra toothbrush."
Melissa and Randy
"We are a military family and move often. We have hosted family for long visits over the holidays for the 12 years we've been married. Last year, we were stationed in England and had multiple family visits for two weeks at a time and our home only had one bathroom for seven people — it was a challenge for sure!
My advice for new couples hosting friends or family this holiday would be to try to give your guests their own space. Giving your house guests a room of their own to have some quiet moments and sufficient privacy can go a long way in making sure everyone has a fun and enjoyable visit. I also prepare a basket for guests with travel sized toiletries, water bottles, small snacks, and of course, the Wi-Fi password."
Quality sleep is essential to staying happy and healthy this holiday. Sleep Number® beds are designed with that in mind. You can adjust each side to your ideal level of firmness, comfort and support to create your perfect Sleep Number® setting. Plus, when you add SleepIQ® technology, you'll always be informed of how to get your best possible sleep.


text:
EcoShape is a Bosch Rexroth tubular aluminum framing system from which you can create modular workstations, flow racks, carts and more. The best part? Tubular aluminum costs less than Bosch Rexroth's T-Slot aluminum framing line, yet has its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Unlike steel tube systems, EcoShape is a lightweight aluminum tube with T-Slot options. The tube comes in one diameter (28mm) and two styles (full round or one t-slot). Both styles work together using the same simple and strong connections, and they can both be connected to our T-Slot aluminum framing for a more robust project.
EcoShape's innovative design requires only a handful of versatile connectors, which saves on both inventory cost and storage space. The dove-tail type clamp connections are easy to use, easy to align, and easy to secure.
We're sure you'll like working with EcoShape because it's also easy to cut, connect, and customize. EcoShape is great for workstations, carts and flow racks, but you can use it for just about anything. The system goes together fast and squares up nicely. It looks good, it's durable, and it's budget-friendly.


text:
Food and Beverage Solutions
Effectively Train Your Workforce
Food and beverage organizations frequently employ a seasonal workforce, especially during harvest and production. Training on safe and effective production is critical but can be expensive.
KPA provides tools to quickly and effectively train your workforce, making team members productive immediately, saving time and money for your organization.
Ensure EHS Compliance
Operations managers are responsible for knowing state and federal regulations as well as potential facility hazards. Fines and penalties for OSHA non-compliance are set to increase up to 75%.
KPA's risk management and compliance program helps you
- Avoid fines
- Reduce losses
- Eliminate accidents
- Focus on production
EHS Checklist
Does your safety program cover all the bases? Use this checklist to find out.Download Now
Implement a Safe Workplace
Food and beverage organizations use hazardous materials for cleaning and processing as well as heavy equipment and machinery for production. Operations managers work to ensure worker safety and bring heightened awareness to the safety culture. Plus, workers compensation expenses are directly tied to organizational safety standards.
KPA delivers tools that:
- Ensure worker safety
- Lower experience modifiers, cutting workers comp costs
- Implement a safety culture
What We Do Best
Control Risk, Streamline Processes, Enhance Performance
Regulatory compliance and loss control are high stakes for your organization. Our software simplifies the process, and lets you focus on your business.
Provide Visibility Into Your Data
Drive process improvement and efficiency, and enhance business performance by having complete visibility into your data across your organization.
Automate Processes That Save Time & Money
Worry-free SaaS-based compliance management solution that saves your organization time and money, and enables you to make well-informed decisions about your business.
Transform Your Compliance
An integrated program designed to give visibility across your organization, implement best practices, and better run your operations. Minimize risk. Maximize profits.
Audits and Self Inspections
KPA experts are here to perform a complete facility audit. We also develop custom self-inspection programs, provide training to your team, and facilitate implementation.
Interactive Training
Interactive, award-winning training designed to help employees improve their skills and performance, enabling organizations to improve their compliance.


text:
Mobile point of sale technology has become ubiquitous in today's society, however the last impression of indicating customer satisfaction are often still at the checkout counter. Hence the challenges of mPOS in today's industry are critical to the positive effect of customer experience.
"mPOS has been particularly successful in small business environments due to large feature set available at a low price point. In 2015, the mPOS adoption rate will accelerate as small to mid-sized merchants leverage mobile solutions to enhance customer experience and improve sales. The challenges of mPOS change drastically when moving from a small merchant with a single checkout setting to a multi-store, multi-check out, enterprise environment. For large enterprise retailers, there are new products and services in security, connectivity, design, functionality, and hardware to make your mobile strategy a success"
Michael Hanson, Executive Vice President, Star Micronics America, Inc.
Enhance Customer Experience with a Clean, Organized Store
Adopting Star Micronics peripheral suite of mobile printers with Star Micronics cash drawers unlocks the power of our software developer kit to leverage new mobile solutions. Technology such as ProxiPRNT, which uses Bluetooth Smart (BLE) connection helps locate the nearest peripherals and securely open remote cash drawers. Star's ProxiPRNT technology is ideal for any enterprise establishment implementing the ultimate mobile POS application to reduce queues in larger stores and have customers efficiently checked out with the purchase completed immediately. This will result in fewer lines and more space for new customers to shop in the store.
Saving Space in Customers' Wallets
With the release of AllReceipts™, Star Micronics' Digital Receipt Solution, customers can now save their receipts digitally during those busy holiday seasons. Complementing the paper receipts, shoppers can now scan the QR code and save a digital version of the receipt without having to provide any personal information such as e-mail address that could result in spam, such as an issue with e-receipts.
A digital receipt solution in the mPOS world would allow customers the option to have their receipts securely saved on their mobile device at all times. AllReceipts™ not only enhances the shopping experience for the customers, but provides retailers real-time printer status, operational notifications, and customer survey results through a comprehensive dashboard. This technology will help increase customer engagement between the store clerks and provide retailers a mPOS solution that eliminates cluttered wallets.
'Always Leading-Always Innovating'
The face of retail will continue to change rapidly with new and advance mPOS technology. Leading the transition to the mobile world, Star Micronics' hardware and software solutions help solve the challenges presented by the implementation of mPOS at a large scale.


text:
Don't cum until you check out Hottero. Woman bodybuilding videos, naked female bodybuilder creampies, body build female nude, british female athlete, female muscular legs, muscular woman sex pics, muscles female bodies, fuck muscle women, female bodybuilders tied and super strong girlfriend.
girl muscle muscular woman
women bodybuilding photo gallery
athletic wives
female bodybuilder clitorius
female athlete model
naked muscular woman
interracial female muscle
veiny female muscle


text:
The study of location has a long and extensive history. As this area of study has evolved, there has been an increased recognition of the challenges and the many significant external factors, driven by the changes of trends and criteria on location decisions. Whether it is the world economy, technology and environment issues, and it has affected the existing models used in production location decision.
The primary aim of this thesis was to review the broad base of literature of production location decision, especially on models and factors concerning the manufacturing and supply chain area. The thesis also uncovers previous research that has examined the current status concerning models and factors used in production localisation decision.
Following a brief quantitative analysis of the research area development, the project applied mainly a qualitative approach to the study. Literature databases, literature reviews and case study reports were used as data sources. Literature reviews were used as base for the description, explanation, exploration and correlation analyses within the study.
Based on existing literature, this thesis presents a framework to categorise the existing location models and factors. The framework presents the used models and factors in production location decisions. Three industrial case study reports (from master thesis projects from Väderstad, Alfdex and IKEA) were gathered and used to examine the researchers' own synthetic framework and further explore the research questions. The result is summarized in the framework that can lead users to understand the current status and the trend concerning the models and factors used in production location decision.
Keywords: Location decision, Production location, Location models and Location factors, Models and actors categorization.


text:
The speed of the river rushing past is like my life
Unstopping, pushing, silent
Each drop of water and each section, in front of me for a moment before moving on.
Swirls, eddies, circles and twists, but still a constant movement forward – relentless
The walked dog wishing to sit is like my soul.
Unmoved, determined, steady
His boy owner fighting a losing battle, pulling and insisting it was time to move on.
Time for a pet and a stroke and a word of admiration, before moving forward – reluctant
The river, like my life, rushing past.
The dog, like my soul, wishing to sit.
I wonder sometimes at the pace of my life. There are times when everything seems like a rush. I force the pace many times with a pressure to move on to the next thing and the next. Working as I do in education, the pressure to progress is intense. It is measured and weighted relentlessly. My most precious times are just 'being' with children. At the moment I am able to carve out a small part of the week, where we head out to a small wood. We have been going since the beginning of the year and now the children I work with are so comfortable in the space, that they are bringing their own agenda to the sessions – a very different pace of measured progress, perhaps? For example, one little girl who went of with a piece of string and came back with a pine cone tied to it. "A squirrel catcher! " she informed me, with great pride and planned intention in her voice.
This poem came from a day I went out for a walk along the Donau Canal, Vienna and as I sat watching the water rush past me, a boy with a very single minded dog did indeed walk, or try to walk past me. However the dog was having none of it and no matter what his poor young owner tried, the dog resolutely sat waiting for a pet. He did eventually move on, but it gave me a chuckle. It reinforced the need and value in spending time with myself and with others. Quality time, slow time, time enough to enable deliciously humorous, sweet, smiling moments to emerge, like squirrel catchers and cuddles!
It also reinforced my need to improve my German – which is seriously poor. You see I think in English and translate… that few seconds of hesitation, coupled with a lack of vocabulary are my undoing. The Austrians switch so easily between German and English, that I sit back with envy. Oh well all in good slow time maybe?
Back to the river, then!
The image is actually the River Soar in Leicestershire. I took a walk along it this January, when the light was golden, the air clean and clear and I made the time.


text:
We're sorry, the ticket(s) you wanted to Best of Friends the Long Lost Episode for the performance on Sunday February 9 2020 at 5:00 PM have just sold out or the event is no longer available for sale via the internet if the curtain time is nearing.
If there is another performance you'd like to attend, please click the 'Change Date' button.
If you wish to contact the box office at (204) 982-8282,
our representatives will be more than happy to assist you.
Best of Friends the Long Lost Episode Sold Out
Sunday February 9 2020
You've selected
Sunday February 9 2020
Change Date
× Once upon a time in a long ago time called the 1990s there were six Friends. The lived, they laughed and they cried, as they frolicked in their far off kingdom of New York City. We, the people of the world, sat witness weekly to all their antics, all their hijinks, all their stories… except one! Celebrations Dinner Theater presents Best of Friends: The Long Lost Episode. Featuring uproarious laughter, and the greatest hits of the "Friends" era, performed by some of Canada's best singers.
Celebrations Dinner Theatre
1824 Pembina Hwy
Winnipeg MB R3T 2G2
Celebrations Dinner Theatre
1824 Pembina Highway
Winnipeg MB R3T 2G2 Canada
Directions to our Box Office
1824 Pembina Highway
Winnipeg MB R3T 2G2 Canada
Directions to our Box Office
Telephone: (204) 982-8282
Fax: (204) 982-8291
Fax: (204) 982-8291
Monday through Friday - 8:30am to 9:00pm
Saturday - 10:00am to 9:00pm
Sunday - 11:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday - 10:00am to 9:00pm
Sunday - 11:00am to 7:00pm


text:
This website www.livespecial.com is a great resource for those with special needs and those who care for individuals with special needs in Northeast Ohio. It is a compilation of service providers throughout Northeast Ohio that care for and assist those with special needs. Some of the entries are expected, such as dentists who are sensitive to the needs of autism spectrum patients. Some are unexpected, such as religious services. The concept behind the Live Special website is to provide a gateway to service providers.
A search may be done by type of service or by diagnosis. The next step is a list of providers that can help.
The neat thing is that while the site is perfect for caregivers, it is also an easy to navigate resource that those with special needs can use to seek out providers in a safe non-threatening way. All in all a great resource and one that will continue to grow and expand.


text:
A judge in Malawi has ordered the maximum 14 year sentence in prison with hard labor to the gay couple who has been publicly humiliated, jailed since December and detained in substandard conditions. After holding a public engagement ceremony to declare their love to one another, the judge says its the "worst" case he has seen and others "must not" follow in their example.
More than a thousand people packed the courthouse square for the circus-like atmosphere, reports Reuters.
The couple, Steven Monjeza, 26, and 20-year-old Tiwonge Chimbalanga, were arrested after they got engaged in a traditional ceremony in late December. "I sentence these two ... to a maximum sentence because I want us to stop Malawian sons and daughters from copying the same sex marriages which are un-Malawian and not in our culture and religious beliefs," Chief Resident Magistrate Nyakwawa Uisiwausiwa said. "This is the first case of its kind in Malawi ... this is the worst case of its kind," he added.
Dozens of people packed the court to hear the sentencing. Police closed roads around the building and a nearby bank was closed as more than a thousand people descended on the court. Tiwonge was calm as the judge pronounced the sentence, which includes hard labor, but Monjeza was visibly shaking at the prospect of going to jail. Police whisked the two away in armed vehicles shortly after the sentencing.
Monjeza (left) and Chimbalanga were convicted of "gross indecency and unnatural acts." That would be the public engagement ceremony.
Defense lawyers plead for leniency, report the BBC.
"Defence lawyer Mauya Msuku had argued for a lighter sentence, pointing out that the pair's actions had not victimised anyone. 'Unlike in a rape case, there was no complainant or victim in this case,' he said after the pair were convicted on Tuesday. 'Here are two consenting adults doing their thing in private. Nobody will be threatened or offended if they are released into society.' Michelle Kagari, deputy Africa director of Amnesty International, called the sentence 'an outrage', reports the AP news agency. She described the pair as 'prisoners of conscience'n and said Amnesty would continue to campaign for them to be freed."
Defense attorneys will appeal to Malawi's high court.
On Tuesday, the U.S. State Department said it was "deeply disappointed" in the conviction. No word yet will the conviction have any bearing on the State Department's $115 million plus annual foreign assistance budget to Malawi.
The Presbyterian Church in Malawi is pleased with the verdict.
African human rights and HIV/AIDS groups are slamming the ruling. HIV/AIDS activists say it will encourage anti-gay sentiment in the region and dissuade gay men who are HIV positive against seeking treatment.
Watch CNN's report from this week AFTER THE JUMP ...