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Happy December little Peanuts! I am going to make this intro very short because, welllll basically I got a little lazy at the end of November and didn't have this post written before I came to California for the annual Elf Returns Breakfast.
So I will update y'all soon, just not laying in bed typing on a cell phone.
I promise to add more entries to the giveaway next week. For now I am goin' to sleep!
Good luck little Peanuts!
December 2018 $50 Giveaway!
Happy December little Peanuts! I am going to make this intro very short because, welllll basically I got a little lazy at the end of November and didn't have this post written before I came to California for the annual Elf Returns Breakfast.
Got off to the gym for some Crossfit this morning, conquering my goal of 5 visits! making the kiddos some chocolate chip Paleo pancakes before I being my hustle day. All is good, God is great, and I chose joy today even with the difficulties in my life!
Happy December to one and all! Tonight I'm off to see My Fair Lady in a nearby small town. Am-Dram is alive and kicking in these parts! So it's off with the leggings & sweatshirt and on with the sequins and kinky boots!
Connie, darling, your tweet is too long. It's still got bits of Nov's g/away in it – oops!
It is pouring so we are not really able to do what we wanted this AM>
You're welcome Connie! Have a great time!
It is a bit rainy here today. My day is going great so far.
My day is going really good the weather is turning cold and it is feeling like Christmas time.
It's December! I love Christmas so I enjoy the season with the music and the Hallmark Christmas movies. Cannot believe 2018 is almost over…. Time is flying….
I'm cleaning today because in Florida were having bad rain & tornado watches. So my house will be clean.
hi! i had a pretty good day today. we're getting over being sick but a friend dropped by with some food from the store she works at and had a beer with me, and then my daughtergot invited to a party, which is SO exciting because she is socially awkward! so now i have time to hang out with my sons!
Lol, Kate we all need to see a picture of you and your kinky boots!! Well, December is here. I have lost nearly a year. Well, at least I've learned a few life lessons, lol.
Spent the day sleeping and doing some errands. I went to dinner and for ice cream with my daughter.
Today was busy and I am ready for bed.
Today I am sitting by the fire and watching movies. There is a blizzard in my neck of the woods and I am not going out in it! Time to start a fire and get some brownies in the oven 🙂
It's a rainy Sunday so I am just chilling out and relaxing and enjoying my day! 🙂
What a great day today….after cooking this morning I kicked back and did nothing.. zero.. zip.. nada….do I feel guilty NO…. hope everyone had a great Sunday….Kate I hope you enjoyed the theatre ….
Wow, what a show! It was wonderful, even more so considering these are all amateurs. Drove home on an absolute high but still managed TEN hours sleep! Being very lazy today 🙂
Holiday events at the town center today, so was there for a while. Everyone seems in good spirits!
Connie, you might have fixed the tweet, but now it isn't a daily anymore.
I had an easy and relaxing day. I didnt do anything.
Well here we are at Monday again….getting myself geared up to do some flower transplants and then outdoor touch-up painting…. laundry is looking at me also!!
Day is going good, making my "to do" list for today, and waiting for some places to be open to make some calls. Going to fire up the slow cooker pretty soon.
Time to put the glad rags away & roll my sleeves up – the cat's puked all over the kitchen floor. Feel a bit like Cinderella!
I am enjoying my day. It is Monday and I have gotten so much done so that always makes me smile. I am planning on making gingerbread houses with the kids, so I am currently baking the gingerbread for walls. The house smells amazing.
Good swim class. I miss the daily word and the daily tweets…..
I've been trying to walk in a more normal way in physical therapy rather than the shuffle I do now, lol. You know, actually picking my feet up. I have an appt. Wednesday for an MRI on my right leg. Trying to figure out why it swells and gets numb.
Good day. In a great mood… Got some work done and I laughed a lot in between…. 😀
Today wasn't a great day. I didnt feel good after dialysis. I hope to be to bed early tonight.
Kate I understand.. we have an older dog up here…painted the cistern today.. just a touch-up looks so bright and white in the sun….transplanted some flowers and started some lettuce and greens….relaxing then lunch.. a great productive day….
Day is going good. A day with a lot of phone calls. My new landline phone came in, so I don't have to worry about the recharge time as much. It was sunny out today, that was nice it is easier to see good to get things done.
My day is going well. My mother had chemo, which was cancelled due to her health. It is frustrating but I am so thankful that she has such great care, and people that are dedicated to making sure she is as healthy as possible during this process.
Kelly: I hope all goes to plan for your Mother.
Tammie: Good luck with the MRI tomorrow!
Michele: It has rained for 11 hours solid. I'm so jealous of your sunshine!
My sister has bronchitis so I had to collect my niece from Dublin at 7pm then onto choir for a last run-through before a charity Christmas party for children with special needs in a local hotel on Saturday afternoon. It feels too warm & wet to go carolling but at least I get a chance to dress up again!
SPARK program this morning, but the wind chill was 12 degrees and it kept most of the regulars away. So we only had 2 people for the program and 4 volunteers.
Another good day…. getting ready for my Mother's birthday tomorrow! 🙂
I'm getting ready to paint my bathroom so today was a day to prep the room.
Even if it's raining on you, Kate, I'm jealous of the warmth. It's been cold here, with the occasional snow or rain.
Today was an ok day. I made a lot of phone calls that needed to be done.
Kate I am with you dress up whenever you can… Today is a "me" day all day.. not even walking the dog! She just looked at me like what the….. coffee and emails then into my book…..
Michele: Have a wonderful me day for your birthday. Much chocolate & booze!
It has now been raining for 21 hours – at least the roads and gutters are clean but I should have gone out with a mop & washed the windows! Committee meeting tonight then a mad dash round the supermarket.
Day is going good. Doing some upcycling for some items, and need to go through more. Just got the status for my thredup bag. You don't get much for your items, but a little pin money still helps, and sending things there helps give jobs to some people. Their items on the site aren't too expensive, but I have gotten anything, just sending things. I've also done some donating locally of items, and getting more ready!
Good swim class. Going to a Make & Take class with essential oils tonight.
Man I am just not my usual self anymore. I am just tired ALL the time.
Thank you Kate.. had a wonderful day….off to the village shopping today..lots of shoppes and all my lists are in order….glad to get out a bit…
Day is going good, grocery day, so I'm getting ready for the ride service I pay for to come pick me up. Sunny but cold out today (although probably not as cold as Sandpoint)!
I am my father's daughter! Today I made a new bird table using the aerial and pole from the old internet provider that they never collected and I hung onto knowing that I'd find a use for it! Rot & rust-proof and no way little rodent claws can make their way up this one! Off to Dublin now to collect my niece at 6pm then home to get ready for a cake sale & coffee morning tomorrow in town.
Well, I had the MRI yesterday. It might be okay for those in good shape, but when your hip hurts and they need you to hold it in an uncomfortable way for about 45 minutes…well, it is not pleasant. At least it's done. Hopefully, I'll get some result information tomorrow.
Went Christmas shopping with Mom today…. it was fun and we had a great time! 🙂
Today was an ok day. I got some rest today.
For Kate.. you are amazing.. a bird table… Had a wonderful time out shopping.. got some much needed lounge . of which in 2019 I plan to do a lot.. clothes…. raining so inside today..
Day is going good. Getting ready to walk to town and get some errands done.
I never want to see another mince pie or chocolate chip cookie as long as I live (well, at least a week)! Our coffee morning & cake sale raised almost 500 Euro (about $570). Not bad but it'll costs around 40k to present Calamity Jane – eek! Having a well-earned rest now and practicing my harmonies for tomorrow's charity children's party (bring on the mulled wine!).
They are residing the townhouse in our area. Mine is one of them so it has been pounding all day long.
Today was an ok day. Rained a lot in the morning and I could barely get out of bed but I did (eventually… lol)
Had a great massage this morning then a good swim class.
Today was not a good day at all. so many things went wrong. One of many my fistula for dialysis quit working so I will go in Monday to the hospital to get it fixed.
Have outside work to do but the lawn man is coming today to cut and wack and I don't want to be in his way.. oh well so sad.. I will just have to stay inside and cook and listen to music and read!!
Day is going good. Getting a bunch of cooking done, smells good in here!
Beautiful sunny day! Did some work outside and now I am chilling and relaxing and enjoying my Saturday afternoon. In a good place… 🙂
Quiet day at home. Nothing much happening.
My day started pretty bad, but has improved. Family can be difficult, but we have talked it over and all is well. The day itself was gorgeous and I enjoyed some time out in nature, which always makes my heart happy.
Today was an easy relaxing day.
Lawn man never came so changed my itinerary and worked outside… maybe he will come today…plan on having a nice quiet Sunday today.. my granddaughter is 19 today…bless her heart hope she is having a great day….
Day is starting out good. Too cold to want to go out, so staying in, have some shopping and recipes to find for holidays will try online.
I love Sundays! Great day for me to mellow out and relax!!! 🙂
We sang our little hearts out yesterday afternoon (followed by a little mulled wine) in aid of the LauraLynn Foundation, Ireland's children's Hospice movement. A local hotel threw open it's doors, held a Christmas Fair, meet & greet with Santa etc. all for free plus any profit from the day's takings went to the organisation. Hopefully we've made things a little easier for some children and their families.
Another quiet day at home. Busy week ahead.
Today was an ok day. I relaxed a bit.
I gave this list to Mum today so she could remember Sunday:
1. Kirk Douglas is 102!
2. The house insurance is up for renewal next week;
3. She has to make a hair appointment;
and, finally
4. We have our first snowdrop in the garden!
Day is going good. It is sunny out, so I'm getting ready to do some mending by hand, that I need the good light. Doing more holiday prep, too!
Snowdrop.. long time I haven't heard that word….well our lawn/wacker man still has not come by…we live in the country and there is bush but the place looks like a jungle!! LOL
Today was kinda meh…… Christmas in two weeks and I don't feel ready yet. The season is going by so fast!!
Finally got the MRI results. Arthritis, bursitis, inflammation. Pretty much as expected. Good news is it's all things that can be dealt with. Bad news, it doesn't explain the numbness and heaviness of the leg. Actually, I didn't expect it to. I think that issue is in my lower leg. But, insurance demands these things be done first. Crazy. They'd save money if they let doctors & patients decide what needs to be done.
Good swim class. Then a trip to the vampires for some blood letting. Now packing for 9 days of Steve sitting.
I'm sneaking in today's post early since I will be away from home for the next 9 days. I'll be Steve sitting. (the 99-year-old-guy)
Well today is the start of a new day we will see how it goes. was gone all day yesterday and got nothing done.
It has been a pretty good day so far, even though I have to work. It is bitter cold, but I am grateful that it is not snowing or sleeting.
Day is going good. Another sunny day, getting some chores done around here, and looking at my lists. Too many lists! Feels good to cross things off, though!
Listening to albums from my husband and my first Christmas back in 1970…Should not have done that feeling very maudlin and sad….will get out of it by tonight I hope….
Michele: Maudling is allowed, enjoy it, but don't wallow in self pity. You still have a life and one that you should be proud of.
Today I have done bugger all. Can't make choir tonight as I have to go to Dublin again to collect R. after a late lecture. Bah humbug! Going out to dinner with the Musical Society Committee tomorrow night though and sorting out what to wear.
So very very tired for some reason… but other than that I am in a good place. Enjoying Christmas! 🙂
Today was an ok day. My computer is working really slow. 🙁
So far so good. Hoping it warms up a little here 'cause it's kind of cold right now.
Busy day. Took Steve to get his B12 shot. Then swim class. The the volunteer holiday party at the Gardens.
Kate back up and going strong….last night watched the Mormon Tabernacle Choir special and I am fine….Enjoy your outing this evening… so to you again Kate as Bab's said on Broadway all those years ago ( third row with mum on the opening week) as Miss Fanny Brice.."oy what a day I had today" planting, slepping dirt and compost..trimming bushes…throwing out old suitcases…sorting out piles of old curtains…then the wacker man came!! thank goodness….ready to read my papers….
Today was a very productive day. Cleaned out the downstairs bedroom and it is spic and span. Tomorrow I have a lot of work to do so I am gonna go to bed early and get a good night sleep…. 🙂
A typical day of dialysis. and of course I am way past ready for bed.
It's very hard to feel festive when it's so wet outside! Guess what arrived in the post today, Michele? A black corset & tutu!!! I'm going to try to get a bit of a waistline for Calamity and got them really cheap on eBay. Besides, you never know when they might come in handy!
Kate they will come in handy….another busy day outside..if the weather holds I am going to do some outside painting tomorrow.. but for now show me the shower….
Still Steve sitting. Took him to the club for his steam and lunch, then picked him up when he was done.
I for one can't wait to know when Kate wears her corset and tutu!! I saw a doctor today at UK in Lexington. She was the first doctor to insist that I tell her the whole story and really listen. She has a plan in motion, tests, etc., to figure out what's going on with my gut. She said I was basically as sick as you can get without actually dying back in February, lol.
I didnt do too much of anything today.
Tamra Kate will wear her thigh high boots ( hopefully with stiletto heels) and corset for Santa this year…..sure as hell hope this doctor finds all the right answers for you.. it has been one challenging ( to say the least) experience for you this year….looks like a rainy day here so no painting maybe just starting some flower seeds…doing some compost work….
A 24hr urine collection is not fun. Better than colonoscopy prep. But it's done and turned into the lab.
I am exhausted. Spent the whole day outside doing work and it took me forever because I was on the phone with the bank and I had to call them twice because we got disconnected…. Anyways I got it all done and our lawn looks decent for Christmas. Hopefully if all works as planned we can decorate our fir tree in a couple of days…. 🙂
I went to dialysis and then to dinner with my family. I got some good news today, so it ws a good day.
Up early and motivated to move early…coffee breakfast then out to work….thankful to be so energized today….
Day is going good. For some reason could not get into the giveaway form yesterday. The slow-cooker is going, and I'm going to do a little crafting soon.
Tamra: Great news! Almost a year later but what the hell, if she can sort you out.
Mum & I have both had a horrible tummy upset for days now. I've had to just stay in bed & near a loo, but Mum's much better today. I just hope it wasn't my cooking 🙁 I do feel a wee bit better so I'll pop out for the papers then back to bed. There are trees down from storms but most have been cleared.
Tired today and have a bit of a headache… I plan to spend the evening eating a few cookies and watching Hallmark… 😉
Tomorrow I start the plan set in motion by the new stomach doctor. She thinks that all those months on antibiotics due to sepsis has really mucked up my system. They wiped out the good bacteria as well as the bad, and so far it's not straightening itself out. So, she's starting an antibiotic that isn't absorbed by the body but will wipe out anything bad in it's path as it goes through the digestive system. I feel like she really listened, and I have a lot of hope this will work.
I had a good day. I went to a wood workshop with family and made a sign and went to dinner and did some shopping with my daughter.
Kate I hope you are feeling better today! Got all my work done yesterday .. it was bright, windy and hot so all my outside painting accomplished….today I plan on baking cookies and eggnog cinnamon rolls….finishing my book and maybe having a wee bit of that eggnog….
It's Sunday! Going to relax and enjoy my day. Next week is gonna be busy since it's a week before Christmas…
1st job of the day: change Mum's colostomy bag;
2nd job of the day: throw up …
ah, the sweet cycle of life! Back to bed …
Day is going good. Getting a little more holiday crafting done. Raining and cold so good day to be in. Having some tea with my homemade chai spice blend – so good!
Home right now to get some clean clothes. Three more nights of Steve sitting.
I spent the day relaxing hen finally put up some Christmas decorations and then ran a couple errands.
I had to get up around 3 this morning (you don't want to know) however, on my way back to bed I drew up the blind to look at the sky and my gosh, the stars were so low I could have touched them. Clear as anything and then whoosh … and another whoosh! An absolutely beautiful meteor shower! So rare to see them in Ireland with our weather and if I hadn't needed the loo I'd have missed out. I just lay there in bed looking at the wonders of the universe till I fell asleep.
My day is going good. I finally decided on a lamp, and I got it from Amazon- used. I'm amazed it was considered used, it was wrapped in so much plastic, and in perfect condition. Saved a good amount and no charge for the shipping, and now using my first LED light bulb. Yea!
Kate at a great thing to wake up to..wonderful… productive day today.. used my bucket of chlorine and cleaned all the concrete surfaces around.. walkways.. by the water storage tanks.. very happy about that.. and we hung more outside Christmas lights..yes.. great day so far…
We decorated the outside Christmas tree…. Now our yard looks nice! We're doing our last bit of christmas shopping tomorrow….
Off shopping today…. well not totally.. to the bank then the phone company to clear up an error….But then groceries and some fun shoppes….
Cancelled yet another Christmas meal this evening, the choir this time & carols in the local community hospital. Managed to keep a bowl of soup down today.
Day is going good. Taking advantage of the sunshine and doing some on my fabric flowers. Also making flour tortilla shells.
Went out shopping today and I had a fantastic time out! Great Day! 🙂
Kate, I hope you're feeling better soon. Same old thing here. I'm shuffling along, literally, lol.
Today was an ok day. There is never enough time in one day.
Hoorah! It's gone 3pm & I haven't retched or had to dash for the loo! Things are on the up & up! Got Mum to her hairdresser earlier as we're meeting up with some 'old' work colleagues from the special school where we both worked (well, she was Vice/Head and I a lowly teacher) for lunch tomorrow. Hope dry toast is on the menu (yay, Blues Brothers!) .
Day is going good. It was sunny again today, so was able to get more crafting done that requires good light.
Home after 8 nights away. Get to sleep in my own bed. Had a massage this afternoon.
Today there was no power so I just took the day off and read a book and lounged around. I go to the doctor with my mom tomorrow so it's gonna be a busy day….
Getting ready to go grocery shopping, the dial-a-ride service I pay for should be picking me up. Sunny and not too cold, not long after I get home torrential downpours are supposed to start, so glad to be able to get a few things before that happens!
My day is going very well. This morning I baked another batch of Christmas cookies. This batch was gingerbread men. My grandkids love them.
To Kate hope you are all better! Went to the health center today for a doctors appt.. NOT BY CHOICE.. have not been to a doc since 2001 when I had pneumonia and couldn't treat myself!! Anyway my opthalmologist sent me because I have bleeding behind my left eye and since I have had 3 eye Sx's.. before we discuss any eye treatments he wants to make sure I do not have any medical issues…I told him I DO NOT but he wouldn't take my word LOL so this was not an option…not a bad experience at all battery of tests scheduled after the holidays all blood tests thank goodness that I can handle… Came home and baked an apple pie that made my day great…
Finally back in the land of the living – whoop! Mum & I had lunch & catch-up with 'old' friends and it really was lovely to have a good belly laugh again. On the way home from town I made a quick detour and collected Doris, our happy free-range turkey from Tom, the turkey man! Christmas is loading!
Slept in late in my own bed. Then took a friend to Costco for a few things. TOO MANY PEOPLE SHOPPING!
Went to the doctor with Mom, and then went to the grocery store to pick up a couple of items for the express line. It was a madhouse in there. People everywhere…. and aggressive too! I couldn't wait to get out of there….
I went to the dentist, did some shopping and came home and wrapped them. Did some laundry and cleaning and watched a couple of movies.. I'm done Christmas shopping.
I'm trying to get myself motivated to head into town to buy the groceries and a couple of little prezzies. I'm not succeeding so far but I will get there!
Back to work today.. so glad that I don't have to leave the house until Jan 3rd.. way too many people about…touching up paint in the kitchen today then who knows i might finish scrubbing the back steps .. we shall see….
Day is going good. It is torrential rain for the next 90 min, up to 4 inches and dark. I can't do my crafting but doing some other chores, might lose power, with wind gusts up to 60 mph. Glad it isn't snow! Very unusually warm. Hunkered down and staying cozy.
Happy Winter Solstice! I am finishing up a few things in the house and I received my last packages for Christmas in the mail. So I just made it! 🙂
Swam in the new pool (missing my regular one). A little grocery shopping and now a quiet evening at home.
Just another day of dialysis. I have a lot to get done this weekend.
Up and moving.. baking today.. lots of different cakes..prepped last night even the fondant for the Buche De Noel….I do love baking days!
Right, today's the day for 1) Making/hanging the Christmas wreath; 2) visiting Dad & cleaning the grave etc.; 3) buying the tv guide & some duck eggs; 4) delivering token presents & cards to the locals; and 5) getting Christmas out of the wardrobe & spreading it round the house!
Also, the battery in one of the smoke detectors needed replacing at 3 this morning so note to self: check all batteries …
Oh, and learning some new songs for Aladdin …
AND, locally grown strawberries (!) and my yoghurt for breakfast.
Nice and sunny so getting some of the crafting done that needs the bright light, and some food prep!!!
Were getting our holiday decorating and shopping done so its been fun. Now off to shop and finish it all today.
This has been one of those days where anything that can go wrong has gone wrong. First, I still have trouble reaching my feet in this wheelchair, and after a month of asking that someone clip my toenails (they were longer than my fingernails, so long they hurt in shoes), I decided that I would find a way. I opened a bottom draw on a chest, lifted my foot onto it and was able to reach my feet, sort of. But on one toe, I screwed up and cut too far—toe bled like 'a stuck hog' as my Mom would've said. Now, no one can track down my mail from yesterday, including an Amazon package. I'm just fed up, honestly. I WANT TO GO HOME!!
Quiet day at home. Putting together all the presents for people the next couple of days.
I finished all my Christmas work this morning and afternoon so I am relaxing tomorrow and I am ready to celebrate Christmas! 🙂
I had a very busy day shopping. I have not wrapped one present yet. :/
I'm obviously still not completely better: I started to feel a bit hot/cold & wobbly on my way back from Dad's grave yesterday & went to bed. Woke up 4 hours later and by that time it was dark so I didn't get the wreath done. Ah, well.
I'm up early today as Panto rehearsal is from 10 till lunch then singing carols in a nursing home till 4 followed by carols in a couple of pubs round town, maybe a bite to eat then home.
We had a fun day baking for the holidays to give to our friends and family.
I'm enjoying Christmas vacation from teaching 5th graders!
Not gonna lie, Christmas in a nursing home is just depressing. Don't get me wrong, they try, lol. People from churches, girl scouts, etc., bring in treats and everything…that's nice. But when you're sitting here just wanting to get well enough to get home and you haven't quite gotten there yet–well, it's a downer. ?
Been busy crafting like mad today, very sunny so I could see what I didn't do good yesterday, fixing and doing more!! Wow, the holidays seemed to come up quick!! Have to make my cinnamon hots tea in a bit!
Just finished up for the day…had to dye those roots girls…. Made the Buche, carrot cakes, carrot cupcakes and carrot cookies…the bunnies hate me….anyway some like it with the pineapple some without so thats that..6 panettone….brownie heart cookies, ginger cookies and old fashioned cranberry shortbread….packed all up nice and pretty and in gift bags tomorrow my lovely daughter will do all deliveries but one…why folks want carrot cake at Christmas I don't know but they do!!!
I didn't manage to get carolling yesterday; a couple of hours at Panto rehearsal and I was ready for bed again. Shaky, headachy and the glands in my neck are sore. At this stage I don't care if Christmas happens or not!
Went over to my friend's house to help her get some of the food ready for the big Christmas Eve dinner. Yum.
2 days until Christmas! Cannot wait! 🙂 I enjoyed this beautiful Sunday by relaxing and drinking egg nog. Boy do I need to work out in the new year….. lol 😉
My day is going okay considering all this last minute stuff. I have to wrap 2 more presents and make food for tomorrow.
Today has been a long and tiring day. I am not feeling the greatest. I need more sleep.
I'm having a great day – it's Christmas eve – so I'm chilling at my mom's home and handling a few last minute holiday things. Glad to be having a relaxing holiday (so far).
To Kate please feel better. . sending you positive vibes and tons of good wishes… to all here a very Happy Christmas…. may it be filled with love and joy + a generous dose of sugar and spirits……
Getting a good amount of baking and cooking done, and started the dishes, a good excuse to take a break, and have a few "tastes," too!
Well, people's nerves are on edge at work on Christmas Eve, I think. There's currently a screaming argument going on in the hall between a nurse and an aide. Merry Christmas, y'all, lol.
Merry Christmas Eve! Today was a good day. I delivered the goodies my Mom baked to my neighbors and we enjoyed the rest of the day. Looking forward to tomorrow. 🙂
Merry Christmas to you all. I had a lovely Christmas Eve dinner with friends.
It's Christmas morning and I still have no lights up but managed to get all the dinner prepped yesterday and my wreath is gorgeous. My sister's got the tummy bug now and Mum has a cold so it might just be the niece and I, Idris the cat and Lolly their dog sitting down to enjoy the festivities! Who cares? We've a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, food if we need it, and love in our hearts. Merry Christmas 🙂
I had a great Christmas Eve. Wishing you a Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to you all.
Happy Christmas to all! enjoying the morning and plan on having a bit of company today nothing stressful with lovely conversation.. music playing… tree blinking… happy times..
May your days be merry and bright …
Christmas morning update: Idris, the cat, woke me at 5am so once I sorted him out I was wide awake. I put up all the little white lights in the front windows (I put them in crystal & glass bowls/vases etc. along with old baubles, tinsel) and they're shimmering beautifully. Doris the happy turkey is in the oven along with the veg (no washing pots & pans for me!) now so I'm having time out with a mug of tea before setting the table. My sister's ill so it'll be meals on wheels for her and just Mum (who's also ill), my niece & I for the sit-down.
Be kind to each other xxx
I am so happy that it is Christmas! I am about to drive up north to see my nieces and brother!
Merry Christmas to all. I hope Santa brings you just what you want.
Having a good Christmas, and Merry Christmas to you all!
Loving hanging out and spending time with my family. Hope everyone is having a happy holiday season.
Merry Christmas everyone and PB&W…. Mom and I had a wonderful day together. We had company over in the afternoon, and we had a lovely day…
I had a wonderful day with my family. But I am glad Christmas is over.
Just enjoyed a wonderful day with my family!
Well, that's it! All the hoo-ha's over and I'm straight back to reality with a wonky toilet seat in one bathroom and a blocked loo in the other … Joy to the World …
Happy Boxing Day to all!!! Had a wonderful Christmas yesterday and today is more celebrating….there are loads of leftovers in the frig so I can do nothing but relax.. did water my flowers but thats it…we celebrate the 12 days of Christmas so the party continues !!
A good day no rain or snow, and I'm getting ready to walk to town to get errands done.
I'm enjoying the post-Christmas quiet period – a cup of coffee and an audiobook.
No swim class today. Infusion instead. Now for the Arby's Bronco deal.
Enjoyed my second day of Christmas. Lounging and eating chocolate. I am such a bum…. lol 😉
today was an ok day. I cant wait for the weekend.
Going out into the garden to water then back to my chair to make lists for the coming year.. to-do's and grocery and feed store…have to start the New Year right….so glad to have the at home vacation….
Nothing planned for today at all other than doing something with turkey & wild rice for dinner. I've to take my sister to Dublin early tomorrow so just getting ready for that and making sure Mum has everything she'll need.
Day is going good, getting ready for my dial-a-ride to go to the grocery store. It is sunny out, and cold, but will bundle up.
I'm feeling jazzed today, lol. I finally see that light at the end of the tunnel getting brighter. Today, my longest walk was 17 feet, then 15, then 10 with a turn ('cause life doesn't always guarantee straight paths, lol.) So, improvement is going quicker. My shortest walk today equaled my longest on Monday. (No p.t. on Christmas or Wednesday.) Hoping it gets even better! ???
My uncle bought my family a pool table for Christmas – it was delivered and set up today. So, I am feeling stoked!
3rd day of Christmas… I did * a little * work but then went back to relaxing. lol. I enjoyed my day.
Quiet morning. The went to see Mary Poppins Returns with some friends. Well worth seeing. I might go see it again…..
The roads were bad to drive in this morning but I mostly had a nice relaxing day.
Planned on going out into the garden this morning and doing this and that but it is pouring so I guess I will have to stay inside and relax!! Have my relaxing game plan in action so off I go..
I've just got back from taking my sister to a hospital in Dublin for a small procedure that required a general anaesthetic. It took 5 hours of waiting – I may never get the feeling back in my bum! Thankfully all went well though, just waiting for results of tests now.
Day is going good. Dark and rainy (not snow!), have been getting some cooking and laundry done. Taking a break right now!
Another day in paradise, lol. Walking a little farther, hoping that ;i will get home really soon. I don't want to still be here February 5, meaning a full year away from home.
More Christmas festivities. Had company this afternoon. I enjoyed my day! 🙂
Swim today at Whitlock. Miss my regular pool and the people there.
my day is going ok. Lots to do but getting some done so hooray
I'm enjoying an early start to my weekend – love long holiday weekends!
Doing much better now. Spent the last few weeks fighting a bad cold. Thanks!
My day is going great. I got to spend time with my husband and granddaughter playing and just relaxing the day away. I am now entering and reading your blog so it is ending well too!
My sister's family spent the holidays with us which was so nice. They had to go home today which was really disappointing. I'm glad we got to see them though.
My day was fine. Nothing too out of the ordinary.
Kate hope all is well with your sister….Had company yesterday late afternoon and the visit was very pleasant.. a good deal of laughter…today.. well…still enjoying the holidays so that says it all!
Today's been really lazy. It would have been Mum & Dad's 62nd wedding anniversary and we always looked forward to their day as it broke up the time between Christmas & New Year. Back to Panto rehearsals tomorrow so I suppose I'd better prep a dinner for Mum to heat up…
Quiet day, getting a little home dec done, moving things around, etc. Did some cooking in the slow cooker and lots of dishes!
Had a lovely massage this morning. Quick trip to the grocery store. Now home for a quiet evening.
Today we had an electrician come and do some repair work on our wiring. I am glad that job is done as it was on my mind a lot to get it fixed… One job done, and more to go. I just remind my mom and I that we will get things done one step at a time….
We got some snow today, and are looking forward to getting more on Monday.
Saturday was great relaxing day. I went to dinner with my daughter and we watched some movies.
Had our 12v repaired yesterday so if the current goes we are fine…Sunday again wow where does the time go? All this week I had no idea of what day it was.. the holidays do that to me..Making a Sunday lunch then another day of relaxing.. I could so get used to this!
Another day, another rehearsal! Only 4 hours today so I'll be home in time to watch a bit of telly & relax.
Nice and sunny today, hope to do a little crafting while it is still bright, doing some organizing. Catching up later with a visiting relative!
Just an average Sunday…. Enjoying the rest of my Christmas vaca…. 🙂
I'm watching football —- hoping against hope that my team makes the playoffs.
Quiet day at home. Slightly watching the Broncos football scores. Not doing the 2 touchdowns I want.
My day is going great! I had a nice, relaxing day at home, cleaning and reading the newspaper. It has been a very nice Sunday!
Not a great day, health wise. There comes a point where there are just too many antibiotics in your system and the side effects kick in. Today was that day. Feeling a little better now, though.
It's going blah since I have to be at work on New Years Eve and it feels like the whole city is asleep!
So here we are on the last day of 2018, a year of sadness and joy, of goodbyes and hellos, of routine and turmoil, and guess what? We're still here! A Very Happy New Year to all of us 🙂
Yes here we are at NYE again…remembering the last one.. this old years night I can say is much better….getting ready our traditional lunch then hopefully watching a concert this afternoon…last night we watched a wonderful one….everyone have a safe and Happy New Years Eve!
My day is going great. My husband woke early and made some pancakes for breakfast. Now I am off to go help him in the shop. The weather has warmed up, which is great it was quite chilly, so I am looking forward to some outdoor time.
Day is going good. No big plans for tonight, happy to stay in and safe, and we are supposed to get a downpour soon – amazing not snow!
Happy New Years! Hope everyone is having a great end of year and will have an even better 2019.
Happy New Year! Snowing and Wind Chill Alert for -20 degrees. Did not go out today.
Happy New Years Eve!!! I hope everyone stays safe if they go out. I am staying in (as always) with the tv and a drink. lol.
I am doing pretty good not going anywhere and no partying for me lol
Today has been a busy day! We've been cleaning house, catching up on laundry & getting our kids packed to go to their grandparents tomorrow for a couple days. We are scheduled to be admitted Wednesday morning at 5am to welcome our sweet baby girl into the world.
I had a good day. I spent the afternoon with my grandsons.
I am doing good today. Had a busy day, went with hubby for his cancer treatment. Trying to keep him uplifted and positive. Never know what someone means to you until you are faced with the "C" word. I just pray the New Year brings better health our way.
Hope you and yours have a Happy New Year!
Is it today or tomorrow? 12 minutes til New Year here.
It was really windy here today . We cleaned up from the weekend we had more holiday fun.


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What the Jargon In a Business Plan Means
Producing a Business Plan – or getting it done for you – is a big decision, with benefits which I've detailed before. (If you're still wondering what the point of having a Business Plan is, have a quick look at this).
However, it can be frustrating if, having made the call to get it done, you find yourself woefully unequipped for the task ahead.
Doing the planning in your business requires a commitment, as well as an investment of your time (and maybe even money). To help make sure you've got all you need, here are 6 things I recommend you do to prepare to produce your Business Plan.
Know Your Business
I know this sounds patronising. After all, who knows your business better than you?
I assure you it isn't meant to be. The point I'm making is that, as well as being able to give an overview of your business, you have to be able to articulate things like the main idea behind it, your mission and objectives, and who your main competitors are.
To make sure you've got all you need, here are 6 things I recommend you do to prepare for your Business Plan
Think about what the market is like, and where it is going
What's the current condition of the market?
Is it growing, fairly stable, or declining?
Are there any notable underlying trends?
What is the demand in the market, and how do your products or services meet that demand?
What's your Unique Selling Proposition, and are there any gaps in the market which you intend to fill?
Know the audience you are selling to
Which segment of the market have you designed your products and services for?
Women, men, or both?
Working women, or stay-at-home mothers?
People within a certain age range?
Are they based in cities, suburban or rural areas?
Are they early adopters or technophobes?
What are their problems, and which of these will you solve with your products and services?
These are some of the questions which will frame your offering. And they are crucial, because sometimes it's easy to forget that our products and services are NOT for us.
They must meet the needs of your target market. Always remember that your success is dependent on giving the people what they want.
Brainstorm some ideas about how you will price, market and sell your products and services
Take some time to think about your pricing strategy.
Most of the time, people think this involves plucking a price out of the air, but there's more to it than that!
How much does each unit cost to produce, and what margin will the market tolerate on top of that?
How does that then match your expectations for income and profit?
Then, you need to think about how you want to market and sell products and services. Social media makes advertising and marketing more accessible, but bear in mind that what works for a similar business may not work for yours.
So, do a bit of research, and have some intentions for how you will conduct your sales and marketing campaigns.
Brainstorm how you will price, market and sell your products and services
How will you measure your success?
"Measure your success" sounds boring, I know!
But if you don't work out in advance how you'll do this, how will you know what you're working towards?
And more importantly, how will you know when it happens?
Take some time to think through the finances
This part is easy to skip, but is probably the most important of all.
(I've put together a post explaining what the jargon in a Business Plan means; here it is. Start by reading that; it will help you with this part).
You need a certain amount of cash to run your business every month. Sum up your expenses (and don't forget to include your salary).
What does the total come to? That's the amount you need to have available. Not invoiced and waiting for payment; I mean actual cash in the bank. Anything less, and you immediately have a cash flow problem.
Many a business was successful on paper and in terms of invoiced amounts, but ended up filing for bankruptcy because it simply couldn't meet its obligations when they were due.
Another key point to address is the length of time you think it will take to make a profit.
It's not unusual for some businesses not to make a profit for some months, or even years. As long as you know that upfront and are prepared for it, it's not a problem.
But if that's the case, do you have an idea of what those losses will come to each month? How will this be funded, and how long can you sustain that?
My experience is that people either don't plan for these scenarios, or are far too optimistic with their figures. Better to err on the side of caution and make too much provision, than to fall short and find yourself at a loose end.
I hope that these six pointers help you along in your planning process. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions, if you hit a bump in the road.
P.S. Where I've recommended doing research, please don't think it has to be onerous.
Ask your family and friends. Use the internet. Create a poll using SurveyMonkey or Google Polls.
Some professional bodies – such as the Institute of Directors – offer research sessions which you can access as part of their membership. Check with your professional body and see if they can help you do some. They may have done something similar already, and have some statistics you can use.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
-Judith Rodenbeck
Our three month break from school during summertime is just long enough to pop into the internship world related to our areas of concentration. It is a time free from class readings and conference work just long enough to miss it, but on the other hand, enough tangible time for a social life as well.
Summer internships are, for many undergraduates, a quintessential activity during break. And for good reason. It is a time to exercise our value and love for theory, readings of methodology, and creative stimulation through writing, for unpaid quasi-career experience.
And there is the unfortunate catch. Internships may be our closest taste of professional success in our field of choice post-graduation, next to the actual job itself. However, more than likely, they don't compensate, save for maybe a lunch and/or travel stipend. This is not a lifestyle that many students could support without outside help from parents, if that is an option at all.
A noble benefactor of Sarah Lawrence has taken this into account. The newly established Annette McGuire Cravens '45 Endowed Fund for Summer Internships in Visual Culture is a summer stipend to be awarded to one or more art history students with an internship at an arts-related organization.
Judith Rodenbeck says, "We, the art history faculty, are really excited to be able to offer these stipends to our deserving students. Having a truly enriching summer internship working with visual culture will be a lifetime experience for the awardees, and the Cravens Fund will allow our students to take these on without having to worry quite so much about how to cover living expenses." The stipend amount is $3,500.
The Cravens Fund recognizes a philosophy of material, creative, and cultural investigation. This is a quality of our philosophy at Sarah Lawrence. Year after year, our pedagogy ingrains us with a sense of stability through skepticism, stemming from our cross-disciplinary curriculum. Sarah Lawrence students are fundamentally prepared to think about visual culture in a broad sense, accomplishing through flexible programs of study and professional opportunities.
Annette Cravens is a reputable collector of archeological and ethnographic objects, and modern art. In 2010, she donated her multimillion dollar, 1,100 piece collection to the University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences (MSW '68) which is today an open installation. Her experience in collecting art objects and her philanthropic endeavors are a familial tradition at the University of Buffalo. Her father Dr. Edgar McGuire was a professor at the institution, and in his memory she donated her collection of medical instruments. In 2007, Cravens was awarded the highest award given by the UB Alumni Association, the Capen Award, for her contributions.
The field of visual arts and culture is an eclectic relationship between hands-on work, reasoning, social history and more. Inarguably, the Cravens Fund is a noble opportunity for our pursuit and exploration in arts related professions, whether that be in an atelier, museum or gallery, or non-profit organization. Interested students should apply by the March 15, 2013 deadline. More information about the application is available through the office of Career Counseling and the Art History department, and the application may be found on MySLC under the Career Counseling tab.
Image via BeCollection


text: Politics 2019-12-09 Central Asia looks to ramp up regional co-operation with Afghanistan Central Asian leaders urged greater unity in security and economic policies to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan and the entire region. 2019-07-05 Pro-Kremlin TV host's proposed attack against Kazakhstan riles citizens Kazakhs are denouncing the idea of a Russian attack on an Almaty laboratory, and outraged at the Kremlin's continuing reference to Central Asia as Russia's 'underbelly' 2019-05-13 Russia's fast-track citizenship for separatists: a wake-up call for Central Asia Moscow could invoke the pretext of protecting Russian citizens in foreign countries to invade more ex-Soviet states. 2019-05-09 In split from Russia, Uzbekistan promotes its own symbol to celebrate WWII victory Uzbekistan is encouraging the Ribbon of Glory as its own symbol of victory in World War II instead of using Russia's St. George's Ribbon. 2019-03-20 Kazakhstan begins adjusting to post-Nazarbayev era Former President Nursultan Nazarbayev and his daughter will remain prominent in Kazakh politics, and the capital Astana is being renamed 'Nursultan' after the former president. 2019-03-07 Independence of Central Asia continues as Kazakhstan strips new currency of Russian Kazakhstan has approved a currency redesign including symbols of the country's national and cultural identity. Russia says it has taken notice. 2019-01-29 Central Asian states move forward with shift to Latin alphabet Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan all raised the status of their nation's languages after independence, and now there is major movement toward the Latin alphabet. 2018-10-24 Russia continues disinformation campaign, deems Syrian saviours 'terrorists' Using similar tactics to those seen in Central Asia, Moscow is attempting to achieve its aims by spreading false information. 2018-07-04 Russia, Iran set for inevitable collision in Syria Both countries are seeking to establish a long-term presence in Syria to further their own economic and political interests. 2018-02-01 Mirziyoyev continues reform of national security agency Uzbekistani President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has sacked Rustam Inoyatov, chief of the National Security Service. 1 | 2 | Next


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Bridges that separate, bring together
A year ago today, I posted a rant about Chicago's movable bridges, and how their infrequent movement seems to lead to unreliable operation. Upon further consideration, I have to change my tune. Not that I'm retracting what I said. I still contend that opening the bridges over the Chicago River more frequently than they do now would be less disruptive in general to street traffic.
But here's the difference: I have come to think that this disruption is actually a good thing.
Sure, every time a bridge lifts there will be some people stranded, stuck on the wrong side of the river, impatient to cross and get on with their day. So it goes. In all the time I've lived in Chicago, I've never once been seriously inconvenienced by a bridge lift. Sure, there have been times I've forgotten it was a lift day, or been surprised by an unscheduled lift, where I've turned a corner and discovered an enormous steel wall where I expected a clear passage. Each time, I adjusted my route and found one of umpteen other ways to cross the river and get to where I needed to go. So I can't say I have a lot of sympathy for those who are too inflexible to find other options, or too uptight simply to relax and enjoy the show.
On Wednesday I watched yet another sailboat flotilla head out to the lake. On this breezy, sunny spring day, there were plenty of people around. As the signal bells clanged, the gates closed, and the bridge raised to the sky, dozens crowded the railing along Wacker Drive near the Michigan Avenue bridge. Tourists raised their cameras. Heck, so did some locals, seeing something different during an otherwise routine lunch break. Down along the new riverwalk, people sat on benches to watch the "big event." At least half were locals; this was probably not their first time.
There's a novelty to the movable bridges that doesn't wear out. As old as the Michigan Avenue bridge is—its admirers will celebrate its 90th year next week—it remains a marvel of engineering. It can be awe-inspiring (and perhaps a little frightening) to stand, as I did, underneath it as it opens. The near-silence with which its motors actuate the spans just adds to the stateliness of its movement.
One moment, you're underneath a solid expanse of iron, capable of supporting untold numbers of buses, cars, and pedestrians…
…the next moment, you're looking into the gaping maw of Lower Michigan Avenue, suddenly truncated and hanging out into open space, as the sky opens up above your head and the Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, and other landmarks of the skyline are revealed.
Raise the bridges more often, and it becomes less of an event—a unique, uncommon occasion for people to experience together. As often as I've seen the bridges move, I still find the first-timer's exclamation of "wow! look at that!" to be contagious, and a joy worth catching.


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There is one hobby that so many people overlook wellness. Video game therapy. Gaming therapy is something that helps me in my daily life when things get a little too stressful. Being able to bring the mind into an interactive world where I can hunt and kill enemies. Now that is something that can relieve stress.
With systems such as the Wii, virtual reality, and other gaming platforms, there are even more ways to get up and move. Technically, there are lots of ways to cheat at these games, but if you do it correctly, there should be no excuse to have fun in an interactive world while getting up to move. For someone with a chronic pain condition, like myself, these types of games are perfect if you want to get exercise without straining your body.
My favorite genre of games to play are the JRPG games such as the Final Fantasy series and Kingdom Hearts. Just as with reading books or watching movies, fantasy video games can help you escape from reality. That is something that allows people who stress out easily to find comfort in fantasy video games.
With Kingdom Hearts III finally releasing this week, I am excited to see how all the previous games come together. One big theme about this series is the struggle between darkness and light. It's the perfect comparison for those struggling with mental health issues. Darkness would represent the various dark thoughts that come to mind. The never-ending struggle to find the light in the everyday stress is something I can see fans of the series can relate to. It is not just a series. It reflects humanity and my own mental struggle with anxiety.
Playing the Game
If you are interested in the series of Kingdom Hearts, and have yet to play the games this is the perfect time to get into them. There is a single game disc called Kingdom Hearts: Story So Far that holds all the games along with cutscene movies to catch up with the series. If you're already a fan, I hope we can all enjoy Kingdom Hearts III
Kingdom Heart: Story so Far– https://amzn.to/2G126MJ
Kingdom Hearts III– https://amzn.to/2G2ZBJZ


text: Today's article is a guest post by Paige Rien, a mother of two small boys and an interior designer. She has been featured on HGTV's "Hidden Potential" over fifty times and has her own design consulting practice where she provides "real-life house help" to people all over the world. Paige is often sleepless, not because of her children, but due to her nightime Hulu and Facebook addictions. Paige is a design consultant at (https://www.paigerien.com/). I'm no baby expert, but I am


text:
There were a lot of bad speeches at the Democratic National Convention, but Caroline Kennedy's speech was the low point in many ways.
Caroline Kennedy got up on a national stage and used her professed Catholic faith to justify and actually demand the preservation of grave evils that the Church explicitly condemns. She twisted Catholicism into a pretzel to suit her own apostasy. She presented lies for the truth, and tried to justify it with her Catholic faith.
I've been hoping to hear some strongly-worded corrections from our stellar priests, bishops, and cardinals since that night, but unless I've missed it, so far I've seen nothing. Are we wrong to expect a public condemnation of Caroline Kennedy's words from our church leaders? And by the same token, are we remiss in voicing that public condemnation ourselves?
Ms. Kennedy, I know you grew up Catholic. I know you were raised in the Church. I won't speculate on the exact nature of your faith, but I can say this for certain: What you professed that night at the DNC was NOT Catholic. You seem to indeed have a very specific creed, but it's not the creed of the Catholic Church.
Your speech that night was scandalous. There's no other word for it. It was disgraceful. On the one hand, it made me furious, and on the other hand, it made me feel very sorry for you.
I am furious with you and every other public "Catholic" in this country who makes a mockery of our faith by living in utter contradiction of what the Church teaches while claiming to love the Church, love your faith, and take your faith seriously. You obstinately persist in championing grave and intrinsic evil, while wearing your ashes on your forehead as an empty display of authenticity. You claim to love the Church you persecute and blaspheme at every turn. You claim membership of a Body you despise through your actions.
When you champion the "right" to kill the child in the womb, you despise the Body of Christ. When you champion the "right" to treat the child in the womb as a thing rather than a person, you despise the Christ Child. When you champion the demise of true marriage through its redefinition, you despise the Holy Family. When you champion the demise of the family by casting aside the primacy of mother and fathers in raising children, you despise the Child Jesus. When you champion the proliferation of contraception and require your own Church to violate Her unchangeable teachings about the sanctity and dignity of human life and marital love, you despise the blessed humanity of Christ.
You do not correctly represent the Church when you make such scandalous remarks as you did that night. You may wish to fashion a Catholic Church more to your liking, but you don't have that authority or ability, thank the Lord.
I pity you that you have not yet encountered the true Faith in which you were brought up. I'm sorry you haven't yet realized what a treasure you could have. It is rich and beautiful and merciful and miraculous, and you don't know that. I hope someday you will. In the meantime, I cannot let your remarks or your version of Catholicism stand unchallenged.
You and Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi and Kathleen Sebelius and John Kerry and on and on… you do not speak for the Church. You do not serve the Church. You don't seek to build up the Church but to weaken Her and contradict Her and remake Her in your own image. You make your scandal public so I make my confrontation public as well. I'm tired of all you wolves in sheep's clothing making yourselves at home in my Church while you work to scatter and devour.
If the Catholic Church is not to your liking, then leave and find a church that is. If the doctrine of the Catholic faith is not palatable to you then go find a doctrine that is. No one's forcing you to believe or to stay against your will. Be honest for once. You know quite well that your personal doctrine is diametrically opposed to the truth of Church teaching. You know that what you call good the Church rightly calls evil. You know that what you celebrate as progress the Church rightly calls immoral and destructive.
Your facade is pitiful and insulting. I'm sick to death of hearing you embrace evil and call it a "right" that must not be lost. My blood boils when you advocate for evil while waving your little Catholic banner.
So while I'm sitting here waiting for a bishop or other Church leader to publicly renounce your remarks, I started wondering if perhaps they were all waiting for me. And thousands of other Catholic women just like me.
I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, nor am I ashamed of His Body on earth, the Church, and I will gladly profess and live the Truth and the Faith that you spit on with your betrayal. I will fight for the life of the child in the womb, for the sanctity of all human life, and for true marriage between husband and wife for life.
Perhaps our leaders are waiting for Catholic pewsitters to stiffen their spines a little and take a public stand for their faith. We cannot always wait for bishops to sound the charge. Each one of us has the horn in his hand as well. What are we waiting for?
We cannot take for granted that our Church leaders' words will be enough. Their voice is strong and powerful and irreplaceable, yet it does not give us permission to be mute. Jesus felt pity for the people of His time, calling them "sheep without a shepherd." Well, you know what? The last few years we have seen leader after leader, bishop after bishop, priest after priest boldly defend the Church and Her teachings as they should; they've used their gifts and their words to instruct the faithful and to teach and inspire. Perhaps what we now suffer from is shepherds without sheep.
What would happen if Catholic women across America rejected Caroline Kennedy's version of "rights" and truths, and instead publicly witnessed to the true doctrine of their Church? What would happen if Catholic women embraced chastity and virtue instead of Planned Parenthood? What would happen if Catholic couples across America rejected the culture of death with all its abortion and contraception and instead gave public witness to the power of life-giving love?
It was not the votes of bishops and cardinals that ushered in the current administration with its ceaseless devotion to abortion and love-affair with Planned Parenthood; contraception; same-sex "marriage"; and assault on Religious freedom. It was the votes of the sheep! If polls are to be believed these days, it seems those sheep have learned nothing at all, and are poised to once again extend their support to the man and the party that glories in killing the child in the womb, along with redefining marriage and elevating homosexual sex to something righteous; and punishing the Catholic Church and the faithful for being Catholic.
Perhaps our leaders are hoarse from screaming at sheep who refuse to listen. Perhaps they're tired of putting up with phony Catholics and impotent Catholics and cultural Catholics who really couldn't care less what the Church teaches. Perhaps they're heartbroken that so many Catholics can't even be bothered to show up.
Perhaps, like me, they're also angry that so many Catholics make a mockery of the faith by openly denying what the Church teaches and openly advocating for intrinsic evils. If they are, I admit I'd love to hear them express their outrage more often. I'd love to see public scandal answered publicly and corrected publicly every time.
Whether I get my wish is not the point. The point is, it has always been up to you and me to be salt and light in our culture. It is up to us to speak the truth and live the truth and confront evil in our midst with courage. It's up to you and me to live an authentic faith. It's up to you and me to answer Caroline Kennedy and the others and bring their false witness to shame with our own genuine witness.
Caroline Kennedy et al only have the nerve to do what they do because sadly there are a lot of sheep who applaud and march with them. They are lost sheep, all of them. They will not benefit from our timidity or lukewarmness. It's time to light the fire and you and I are holding the match.
Pray continually for our Church leaders here in America. They need our support and the covering of our prayers. They also need us to take ownership of our faith and act like the militant Church we're supposed to be. Just as we wait for inspiration from them, so they need some enthusiasm from us. It is a laborious task indeed to lead people who stick their finger in your eye.


text:
The Dark Horizon
The Holy City of Hortical is a large temple city filled with the devout worshippers of Teranidas, Mia, Sharae, and Ornon. The High Priests lead a Theocracy that claims independence from the Human Kingdoms of Kandor and Vilgreere. All are welcome to the great and beautiful city but all must also bring tithe for the gods of Life and goodness.
The Grand Cathredral of the Gods – at the heart of Hortical the Priest Council rules from the Grand Cathedral. Adorned with untold riches, this structure is glorious to behold, towering far above the city of Hortical.
The Light of Karma
Anonymously Posted Quests with attached Rewards that are granted to those who complete and show proof of completion. Organized and Placed at the Temple of Light.
- Clear out the Hobgoblin Warband from the Seaside Spidersilk Cavern – 2000 gp
- Find and Capture Dead or Alive: Wanted Murderer Din Marad – 2500 gp Dead 5000 gp Alive
- Recover a Stolen Family Heirloom – Keen Longsword +1
- Slay the Black Dragon in the Northern Swamps – 5000 gp
- Sea Trade
- Land Trade
- Fisheries
- Farms
- Holy Power and Healing
- Holy Items
- Tourism
- Salvation
- Spider Silk and Cotton
Social Hierarchy
- High Lord of the City of Light – High Priest of Ornon – Darren Handvol
- The Council of Light
- High Priestess of Teranidas – Sarah Canoran
- High Priest of Mia – Branovan Kingrick
- High Priest of Sharae – Shando Hart
- Local Clergy – Attained through Schooling, Appointed by High Priests
- Nobility/Foreign Clergy
- Nobility attained through Wealth and Donation
- Foreign Clergy established through demonstration of Blessings
- Commoners
- Excommunicata – Pariahs
The Grand Tithe: 10% of one's wealth must be donated to the Gods of Hortical before recieving any service. Foreign Clergy are REQUIRED to do this.
- Dywin Wealth: 22000 gp
- Asher Wealth: 14000 gp
- Taliesin Wealth: 12000 gp
- Illisia Wealth: 1000 gp
- Alex Louis Wealth: 12000 gp
- Liss Wealth: 10000 gp
The Glory of the Gods 1: Any structure over 15 feet tall must be white.
The Glory of the Gods 2: Any structure over 30 feet tall must have over 50% surface area Glass.
Curse the Unbelievers: Services beyond food, shelter and basic living needs are denied to those Excommunicated by the church. A mark (black blot) is placed upon their hand.
Light's Guidance
Owned by Rarann Godwin
Business: Items for the Blessed
|All Adventuring Gear (Mundane)
|110% Price
|Wand of Light
|150 gp
|Wand of Cure Light Wounds
|825 gp
|Wand of Lesser Restoration
|5000 gp
|Wand of Cure Moderate Wounds
|5000 gp
|Wand of Bear's Endurance
|4900 gp
|Wand of Divine Power
|22000 gp
|Wand of Crushing Despair
|22000 gp
|Wand of Phantom Trap
|7300 gp
|Wand of Plant Growth
|12500 gp
|Wand of Slow
|12750 gp
|Potion of Remove Blindness/Deafness
|775 gp
|Potion of Resistence
|35 gp
|Potion of Resist Electricity
|330 gp
|Potion of Fox's Cunning
|315 gp
|Oil of Remove Curse
|780 gp
|Oil of Magic Vestment
|790 gp
|Marvelous Pigments
|4000 gp
|Scroll of Cat's Grace
|150 gp
|Scroll of Charm Person
|210 gp
|Scroll of Limited Wish
|4000 gp
|Scroll of Time Stop
|4100 gp
|Tome of Clear Thought +2
|53000 gp
|Tome of Leadership and Influence +4
|110000 gp
|Manual of Bodily Health +3
|84000 gp
|Cassock of the Clergy
|4500 gp
|Monk's Robe
|12500 gp
|Bodywrap of Mighty Strikes +1
|2900 gp
|Bodywrap of Mighty Strikes +4
|45000 gp
|Belt of Giant Strength +2
|4200 gp
|Belt of Incredible Dexterity +2
|4200 gp
|Belt of Mightt Constitution +2
|4250 gp
|Mantle of Faith
|76000 gp
|Bandages of Rapid Recovery
|200 gp
|Mantle of Spell Resistance
|92000 gp
|Boots of the enduring March
|1600 gp
|Nightmare Boots
|8800 gp
|Healer's Gloves
|2200 gp
|Crown of Swords
|5800 gp
|Circlet of Persuasion
|4500 gp
|Headband of Mental Superiority +6
|145000 gp
|Headband of Inspired Wisdom +2
|3900 gp
|Headband of Vast Intelligence + 2
|4500 gp
|Headband of Alluring Charisma +2
|4000 gp
|Headband of Intuition
|7500 gp
|Headband of Mental Prowess +4 (Charisma, Wisdom)
|38000 gp
|Phylactery of Positive Channeling
|11000 gp
|Periapt of Health
|7500 gp
|Amulet of Mighty Fists +1
|5000 gp
|Amulet of Spell Cunning
|11000 gp
|Righteous Fist Amulet
|3000 gp
|Cloak of Resistance +2
|4000 gp
|Cloak of Resistance +4
|16000 gp
|Cloak of Etherealness
|56000 gp
|Charm Bracelet
|8300 gp
|Inquisitor's Bastion Vambraces
|4000 gp
|Bracers of the Glib Entertainer
|8000 gp
|Bracelet of Friends
|19000 gp
|Bracers of Armor +8
|64000 gp
|Bracers of Armor +5
|25000 gp
|Grave Salt
|1100 gp
|Word Bottle
|1500 gp
|Oil of Silence
|250 gp
|Dusty Rose Prism Ioun Stone (+1 Insight AC)
|5000 gp
|Deep Red Sphere Ioun Stone (+2 Enhancement Dex)
|8000 gp
|Pink Rhomboid Ioun Stone (+2 Enhancement Con)
|8000 gp
|Incandescent Blue Sphere Ioun Stone (+2 Enhancement Wis)
|8000 gp
|Pink and Green Sphere Ioun Stone (+2 Enhancement Cha)
|8000 gp
|Pale Blue Rhomboid Ioun Stone (+2 Enhancement Str)
|8000 gp
|Pearly White Spindle Ioun Stone (Regenerate 1hp/10 min)
|20000 gp
Holy Warriors
Owned by Murdarae Heavensent
Business: Holy Wargear
|Goblin-Bane Short Sword +2
|8800 gp
|Holy Short Sword +1
|7800 gp
|Lance +3
|14000 gp
|Keen Lance +1
|8000 gp
|Returning Throwing Spear +2
|20000 gp
|Courageous Spear +1
|7800 gp
|Cunning Longbow +1
|8000 gp
|Lucky Longbow +2
|14000 gp
|Adaptive Longbow +1
|3000 gp
|Keen Shocking Burst Longsword +1
|25000 gp
|Vorpal Longsword +5
|210000 gp
|Speed Longsword +2
|45000 gp
|Longsword +2
|7000 gp
|Returning Starknife +1
|6000 gp
|Holy Starknife of Sunwrath (1/day extra 5d6 damage on single attack) +1
|11000 gp
|Mighty Cleaving Keen Greatsword +1
|15000 gp
|Thundering Greatsword +2
|16000 gp
|Igniting Heavy Crossbow +1
|18500 gp
|Shocking Burst Falchion +1
|17500 gp
|Shieldsplitter Lance
|17000 gp
|Sun Blade
|50000 gp
|Sword of the Planes
|20000 gp
|Celestial Shield
|13000 gp
|Mithral Full Plate of Speed
|25000 gp
|Invincible Armor
|140000 gp
|Elven Chain
|5200 gp
|Benevolent Breastplate +2
|8000 gp
|Arrow Deflection Chain Shirt +1
|8500 gp
|Moderate Fortification Plate Armor +2
|23000 gp
|Delving Chain Shirt +1
|13000 gp
|Wild Hosteling Ironwood Breastplate +2
|30000 gp


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How to Have a Morning Beauty Routine
Explore this Article Steps Questions & Answers Related Articles References
wikiHow is a "wiki," similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 66 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Together, they cited 5 references. This article has also been viewed 291,509 times. Learn more...
This is a step by step routine which should take at least 20-30 minutes of your time, leaving you looking beautiful for school or work!
1Get up early. Stretch your arms, legs, neck and shoulders.[1]
3Wash your hair with a good shampoo, suited to your hair. Try to use natural-based and sulfate-free products like Shea Moisture or OGX. Then use conditioner. Try to leave the conditioner in for 2 minutes.
4Apply body lotion when you get out of the shower. Also apply deodorant and give it time to dry before you get dressed. Don't forget to also clean your ears.[3]
5Get a washcloth. Pour HOT, not boiling, though, water on it, then press to your face. Then wash with an oil-free cleanser (Neutrogena; cheap and effective) then rinse with warm water. Then get 2 tablespoons of water and 2 tablespoons of sugar and mix. Then rub on face. NOW you can rinse with cold water.[4]
6Check your eyebrows. If they have some hairs growing out of place, pluck them.
7Get dressed. Make sure your outfit is totally you and fashionable! (It would be easier if you lay out your clothes the night before.)
8Apply makeup. For teens, concealer to cover blemishes and under eye circles, tinted moisturizer with SPF or powder, curl lashes and apply a coat of clear or black mascara and a slick of lip gloss for a natural look. Don't wear heavy foundation or too much eyeliner or eyeshadow and remember to keep your hair back with a rubber band while doing makeup.
10Eat breakfast, brush your teeth well and floss. If you are worried about bad breath, use mouthwash. Listerine pocket packs are great for on the go breath fresheners.[5]
11Spray a little bit of perfume or body spray. Do not saturate yourself with it otherwise you'll smell too strong.
Community Q&A
QuestionCan I use numbing cream to numb the pain while plucking my eyebrows?Community AnswerYes. I recommend Orajel. Remember to leave it on for a bit, wipe it off, then start plucking. Wet brows are not ideal for plucking.
QuestionHow do I pluck my eyebrows effectively?Community AnswerPluck them the direction they grow. Apply numbing cream if you want a painless removal. Don't overpluck. Only pluck the ones that are growing out of place.
QuestionHow do I keep up with the routine?Milo_Jenkinz13Community AnswerYou can write your routine down and set timers on your phone, giving each thing you do in the morning a set period of time.
QuestionHow much time do I need to get ready?Community AnswerIt really depends how fast you are and how much you are going. For example, you probably won't need to pluck your eyebrows or wash your hair every single day; both of these can take up quite some time. Also, some people need 20 minutes to take a shower while others can get it done in 5 minutes.
QuestionHow do I pluck my eyebrows regularly?Community AnswerPluck them using tweezers whenever you need to (if you see a stray hair). Be wary of plucking a lot of the hairs towards the end of your eyebrow (at the edges of your face) because these take longer to grow back. Make sure that if your brows start to look thin, leave them to grow out for 6-8 weeks or until you see a difference. Don't pluck them at all during this time!
QuestionHow do I get glowing skin?Community AnswerUse a vitamin E serum and keep a good skincare routine, using as many natural products as you can. Be sure to exfoliate every few days.
QuestionHow do I remove pimples?Community AnswerTo remove pimples, you need to wash your face with acne cleanser/
QuestionHow can I make my skin become white and pure? I have oily skin.Nina ZhanCommunity AnswerUse calming, cleansing face washes. Gently clean your skin every day, and remember to not put too much lotion on your face, just a little to moisturize it. You also might choose to use a toner, and make sure you use oil-free cosmetics. Avoid too much makeup, and wash the makeup off thoroughly afterward. Never wear makeup overnight.
QuestionWhat is a quick breakfast idea?Community Answer1. A yoghurt with a bit of granola sprinkled on top; 2. A healthy smoothie: Kale, spinach, strawberries; 3. A coffee and a fruity cereal bar with no added sugar.
QuestionCan a moisturizer be used as a lotion?Community AnswerMoisturizer is better for your face than a lotion. Lotions work best for your body.
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- Be careful about using scents if you have sensitive skin, as many scented products will give you a rash. Natural, clean shower gels will work fine or you can learn to make your own; many simple recipes exist, and you can add essential oils like lavender and chamomile (which are suitable and nourishing for sensitive skin) to scent them.
- If you find yourself never being able to sleep or not being able to wake up, exercise during the day. It will help you get tired for when you go to sleep and the sooner you sleep, the earlier you will wake up!
- If you don't like eating in the morning, try to get into the routine of eating your evening meal a few hours earlier and gradually get into the routine of eating breakfast starting with something light like a smoothie and crackers. Breakfast is too important of a meal to skip. It will give you energy throughout the morning and curb your appetite for a large lunch. It also helps with bad breath, because if you don't eat breakfast, 9 times out of 10 your breath is going to stink, so, eat up!
- Drink 8 glasses of liquid. Water is very good for you. Try carrying a water bottle filled with water. It will help you feel energized, keep your voice strong and loud and keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.
- Eat breakfast! It'll give you the energy you need for the day. A healthy meal would be a glass of milk or orange juice, a bowl of whole grain cereal or cereal with fruit, a piece of toast and a fresh, nutritious orange. If your are in a hurry try instant breakfast.
- Make sure you get a good night sleep so you are not tired throughout the day
Things You'll Need
- Leg Razor
- Body Gel/Soap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Face Brush
- Face Wash
- Lotion
- Deodorant
- Clothes
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Hairbrush
- Tweezers
- Make-Up (Optional)
- Sunscreen
- Perfume/Body Spray
- ↑ https://www.theactivetimes.com/fitness/technique/reasons-why-you-should-stretch-morning
- ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/best-showering-skincare-tips
- ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/best-showering-skincare-tips
- ↑ https://stylecaster.com/beauty/should-you-be-using-a-washcloth-in-your-skin-care-routine/
- ↑ https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth
Article Info
Categories: Morning Routines | Personal Hygiene
In other languages:
Español: tener una rutina matutina de belleza, Italiano: Avere una Routine Mattutina di Bellezza, Русский: навести красоту с утра
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If you're at a busy central London food market and you see someone alone precariously photographing their food with a phone, and then stuffing their face, it's probably me. I had nothing planned last Saturday and with my husband playing hockey I had a hankering to eat lots of delicious food so I hopped on a train and made my way to Maltby Street Market.
10 years ago I absolutely hated my own company and I didn't do anything on my own. But something clicked in my late-twenties brain. Oh my god, I can do this thing that I really want to do, I don't have to organise someone else's time so they can come. And then we end up doing what they want to do, rather than what I actually wanted to do in the first place. Thankfully I now feel comfortable being alone, dining alone, being a history nerd alone and not giving a rat's patootie what anyone thinks of me. It's rather liberating and I highly recommend it.
I walked to Maltby Street Market from London Bridge station – it's basically a straight line down Tooley Street and even if you don't know where you're going just follow the crowd. And the smells. The railway arches en route are full of bustling small businesses from a bakery and a brewery, which I had to drag myself away from, and a garage specialising in Porches with lots of impressive cars parked outside that I won't pretend to know anything about.
The first thing I loved about Maltby Street Market were the lines of flags flapping in the wind above my head. The second thing I loved was the smell. Stalls were sizzling away and as I walked through the market for the first time the array of smells was just fabulous: melted cheese, sweet sugar, meaty steak, fresh coriander, and spicy paprika to name a few.
I walked up and down the row of stalls 4 times before finally deciding on the very first stall outside the market: La Pepiá. I'd never heard of arepas (I know, which rock have I been living under?) before or had Venezuelan street food before. The clincher for me was the sizzling hot plate at the front of the stall where they were melting piles of cheddar to create big cheesy crisps to adorn the filled arepas.
I chose a carrot bun filled with black beans and avocado, the vegan choice, until I opted for a cheddar crisp on top. Cheese will forever be my weakness.
Suffice to say it was absolutely incredible, if a little tricky, to eat. It went all over my fingers and my face, but it was 100% worth it. I did not give a rat's patootie that anyone was looking.
After finishing my arepa I walked back through the market two more times and set my sights on a brownie from Bad Brownie Co. They had an immense selection of flavours from vegan salted caramel, triple chocolate, and oreo, to raspberry and prosecco. I decided on peanut butter because I'm a firm believer that anything with peanut butter added to it is instantly improved.
I tapped my Monzo on the card reader and pocketed the brownie; I was not ready for sweet yet.
My head had been turned at the start of the market by gnocchi. I'd never been a huge fan of gnocchi until I met my husband who took me to Padella one time and it turned out I had just been eating rubbish gnocchi all my life. I walked through the market for the 6th time and stopped at Gnocchi at 84 for the beef short rib ragu. Oh. My. God. It was absolutely unreal.
The whole caboodle was divine and I ate half the box before I was completely stuffed. I found a sunny spot outside the market and had a break for 20 minutes to let my food go down – there was no way I was leaving any gnocchi to waste. I finished it up, walked through the market twice more and then decided that I really was full now.
I spent the rest of my afternoon walking along the north bank from Tower Bridge to The Strand, which took about an hour. I ate my brownie overlooking the Thames along the way.
The last time I was on Tower Bridge I was running over it during the 2016 London Marathon. It was lovely just being a tourist this time and I walked just under 10km along the river.
For me Maltby Street Market encapsulates the best of London: people from all over the world getting together and lapping up food from all over the world. It's a treasure and I can't wait to go back (perhaps with some pals next time so I can try more food). From Vietnamese Banh Mi to Moroccan falafel and British scotch eggs, the array of food on offer is fabulous and I implore any foodie to go.


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LEARN, SHARE AND BE INSPIRED: Learning from the Database of Good Practices - Secure Tenure Rights
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ILC's Commitment 1 seeks to respect, protect and strengthen the land rights of women and men living in poverty, ensuring that no one is deprived of the use and control of the land on which their well-being and human dignity depend. ILC's Database of Good Practices provides concrete examples and guidance to Coalition members and partners on how to achieve this commitment.
What processes, tools, and methods have ILC members successfully used to overcome some of the challenges they face in respecting, protecting and strengthening the land rights of women and men living in poverty? Learn about:
- Establishment and strengthening of local institutions
- Advocacy and campaigning
- Legal assistance, legal empowerment and access to justice
- Land conflict resolution
- Mapping and land registration
- Project design and implementation


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Leaders discuss how they are using ambitious policies and incentives to harness the potential of energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is the only area that came even moderately close to the requisite pace of improvement over 2012-2014, but the rate of progress remains short of what is required to meet the 2030 objective. There are significant energy savings to be realized in industry, power generation, buildings and transport, with energy efficiency offering the biggest opportunity to make fast progress. However, to achieve these savings, global investment in energy efficiency needs to rise by a factor of 3-6 times the current level of investment.
Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) peaked for high income countries in 2007, and has been in decline since 2012. The top twenty energy consuming economies globally – defined as high-impact countries – accounted for more than 75% of global TPES, with only four countries (China, the United States, India and Russia) accounting for nearly 50% of TPES. How rapidly these countries reduce their energy intensity has a major impact on global outcomes. 15 out of 20 high impact countries reduced their intensity between 2012 and 2014. Low Income Countries in Africa have the highest energy intensity worldwide (predominantly due to the use of traditional biomass).
Policies have been a key driver of the energy intensity gains, however, more needs to be done. The Regulatory Indicators for Sustainable Energy (RISE) highlights the need to attach greater political and policy priority to energy efficiency, with most RISE countries having few or no policies in place and many only engaging at a relatively superficial level. More than three-quarters of countries score well on the legal framework for renewable energy, while only 9% do for their energy efficiency mandates and incentives for utilities. There are however, some success stories:
- Tunisia aims to reduce dependence on imported fuels through energy efficiency plans that target the public sector and demand side management. Mandatory efficiency standards and labeling systems are supported by stringent verification and enforcement and there are tax incentives, on-bill financing options, and World Bank supported credit lines for investments.
- China started introducing energy efficiency measures in the 1980s to minimize energy imports and now has the largest policy coverage of any country in the world, which focuses on mandatory standards and targets for industry.


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Ladies and Gentlemen:
Grassroots is proud to present to you our 2013 Spring Season Players of the Year!!!!
Offensive Player of the Year: Mohamed Ibrahim of the HC Stars
The kids nickname says it all....... Actually he doesn't have a nickname, the Voyce gave Ibrahim and "nick phrase." he is referred to in GYFL circles as "All I Do is Score!!!"
This young man come from the Hamilton Tigers out of Baltimore, where he had an excellent 8th grade season. Although well known in Baltimore circles, for some reason, he was not known on the regional stage down in the Washington Metropolitan area. When he joined the Stars, coach T. White and the crew knew very little about him, except the fact that it was obvious that he was a very talented athlete.
He started out as the 3rd string Tailback, playing behind kids who were more established, had played Grassroots in previous springs and/or played on our MD State All Star Teams. By the time we got into the second game of the Spring season, it was clear that this kid was phenomenal.
He worked his way up the depth chart because it seemed as though every time he touched the ball, he was scoring touchdowns. By the time we finished week #4, it was clear that he was the class of a talented RB core in the league. Ibrahim can flat out do it all! He is fast, quick, elusive, and delivers a powerful blow when necessary. He had a standout season for Stars breaking big runs in every game of the season. He saved his best performances for the biggest games and never disappointed. Ibrahim was a threat to take it to the house every time he touched the ball.
He came into the season without a commitment to any of the top schools. By the time the season was over, every top school in the DMV was trying to get him. He enrolled at 4 Time WCAC Champion Good Counsel High School in the fall and continued to tear up the gridiron as the featured tailback for the vaunted Good Counsel freshman team.
Congratulations young Mohamed Ibrahim. You are the 2013 GYFL Offensive Player of the Year!!!
Defensive Player of the Year: Jalen Lea of the Montgomery County Bearcats
We first met Jalen in the Fall of his 7th grade year and it was clear that he was going to be a dominant player. He played against older kids every year and did more than hold his own. He was a stellar member of the 2012 Bearcat team that went 8 - 0 through the regular season and appeared to be the favorites to win the Championship that year.
He played OG/DT as a 7th grader and tore the league up! When he came back for his 8th grade year, we projected that had the size and speed to be an elite level Linebacker and Coach Steffanelli played him at that position in the Spring of his 8th Grade year.
Lea was an absolute terror in the Spring of 2013 as he led his team to the Bearcats first Grassroots Championship. He made plays all over the field and plain dominated offenses from his LB position. Lea is extremely aggressive and athletic. He loves contact and thrives on competition. Lea played through pain and showed up every single play of every game. He was clearly the most consistent and devastating LB in the GYFL and took his considerable talents to Our Lady of Good Counsel HS in the fall, where he teamed up with Ibrahim to run through another undefeated freshman season.
Congratulations Mr. Jalen Lea to be selected as the 2013 GYFL Spring Defensive Player of the Year!!!! You have a future so bright you will need sunglasses to see it.


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Podcast Uarévaa #142 – Lobisomens
Participação no podcast Uarévaa sobre Lobisomens. Participaram também da mesa Freud, Moura e Modesti.
Ouça o podcast aqui.
"We work in the dark - we do what we can - we give what we have. Our doubt is our passion, and our passion is our task. The rest is the madness of art."Henry James
Posted by Rafael Rodrigues | 12:39 | No Comments |


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It's OK if Your Holidays Aren't Totaly Stress-Free and Simpleposted by Andrea | 11/25/2013
Yes, you read the title of this post correctly. Andrea Dekker is telling you that it's OK if your life is stressed and crazy!
Well, kind of 🙂
As you can see by the photo above, Nora's first Christmas was not her favorite day ever (it was a stressful day with lots of crying for BOTH of us!)
It's Thanksgiving week — and we all know that from now until January 2, things tend to be a little crazy.
So many parties to attend, so much food to make, long lists of gifts to buy… and then wrap… and then remember to bring to your parties.
There are budgets to stick to, trees to decorate, concerts and programs to attend, houses to clean, new clothes to buy, family pictures to take, holiday cards to send… plus all the other stuff we need to do on a daily and weekly basis.
And if your family is anything like ours, you'll have no less than 6 family birthdays tossed in between Thanksgiving and New Years Day (seriously, this is just in our 2 immediate families — Dave and Nora are two of the birthdays!)
As much as I try to simplify things by shopping ahead (or going with clutter-free gifts), baking and cooking in advance, making lists, simplifying my holiday decor, and writing down every single thing in my planner — there is still stress, and it's still not a blissfully simple time of year.
But I LOVE it… most of the time!
Since the rest of my life and the rest of my year is usually somewhat stress-free and simplified (thanks to a lot of thought and intentional effort on my part), I can usually handle 6 weeks of craziness… especially when it's good holiday craziness spent with family, friends, food, and fun.
Don't get me wrong, I'm definitely still going to do as much as I can to plan ahead, work ahead, simplify, organize, and de-stress this busy time of year.
BUT, I'm also not going to feel like a failure if (when) things get crazy, Nora gets crabby, our house gets trashed, Dave and I both feel we just need need a nap, or I drop the ball and forget to bring the food I made in advance and lost in the freezer 🙂
As much as magazines and store marketing would like us to believe, there is nothing we can do or buy that will magically de-stress or completely simplify this busy time of year.
It's just not possible!
However, I think the main reason we often feel a little stressed and extra busy is because we're trying to make the most of these 6 short weeks.
We're trying to pack it all in — family, friends, parties, gifts, food, decorations, donations, volunteering, Christmas programs at school and church, playing with the kids while they're home from school, and trying to make as many memories as we can in our limited time.
Am I right?
Yes, sometimes there are negative stressors this time of year — but most of the time, I think that holiday stressors are "happy" stressors — if there is such a thing!
So for those of you (like me) who have worked hard planning ahead, getting extra organized, and trying so hard to simplify this busy time of year; please PLEASE don't feel like you failed when January 2 rolls around and all you're left with is a messy home, crabby kids, a droopy tree, and shreds of gift wrap everywhere.
This probably means you did such a great job of planning ahead and getting organized that you had so much extra time for lots and lots of fun and memories! Either that, or you didn't do anything to plan ahead but still had lots and lots of fun 🙂
Good job mom!
Filed under: Life • Schedules • Holidays • Daily Life • Entertaining
- Labels:: christmas
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6 comments
I am so, so happy to read that someone feels like I do. There will be stressors but this time of year is just sooooooo wonderful and full of family, friends and fun. As I read through some of the bloggers (or whatever they are called) on pinterest, there are quite a few that seem to be frustrated, aggravated or just plain unhappy about how other people celebrate, decorate and spend their holidays. They are comparing their decorations and celebrations to others. Then complaining about it. Let everybody do whatever it is they do so everybody can just be happy. No need to start a conversation on what people should be or shouldn't be doing or whose way is too much or who's overdoing it. Find happiness in your life and celebrate the way YOU see fit.
Amy Schaffer11/27/2013
Love this post! My mom always taught my sister and I about "happy stress." I, like any wife Nd mom, want everything to run smoothly, look beautiful, and be a bargain during this time of year. 🙂 What I want my children to remember is the fun we had, the people we celebrated with and the many, many blessing we enjoy. What I pray they don't remember is a frantic Mom who is so stressed she is no fun! I am praying I can still be fun and joyful in the chaos which is sure to hit at some point in the next few weeks! 🙂
you hit the nail on its head! I love love to read your blog.
Thanks for a good reminder.
Good holiday reminder for us all. We can just be too hard on ourselves as we look to be super mom, wife, grandma, hostess, etc. I love your "progress not perfection" admonition.
So true…as with everything, I think a lot of it has to do with one's attitude. Of course, there are stressors that we sometimes can't avoid, particularly around the holidays, but I think you have a great attitude. I never thought about it that way, but I think you hit the nail on the head in saying that we are trying to make the most of this wonderful time of the year…so let's make the best and enjoy it!
Lydia @ Five4FiveMeals.com11/25/2013
Good job to you too! This year will be extra stressful with an extra baby, but I am relishing it. Thanks for the encouragement.


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Leicester Guildhall, Leicester Early Music Festival (solo concert)
Then there was the unforgettable Peter Bull. This amazingly versatile minstrel drew another capacity crowd for his marvellously entertaining offering called From Bad King John to Good Queen Bess. Hurdy-gurdy, recorder, dulcimer, cittern, flute, lute and voice were put to work for a fast moving 90 minutes of splendid medieval and Elizabethan songs and dances.
Little Moreton Hall, Cheshire ("Tudor Christmas", with Anna Keightley, soprano)
Peter Bull and Anna Keightley... added to the festive atmosphere with various delightful airs and ballads whilst dressed in authentic clothing. Not only did they captivate all that entered the hall, but momentarily transported everyone around them to another time in history, it was quite magical.
Ilkley Manor House, North Yorkshire (solo concert)
Once again the Manor House was packed to capacity for what turned out to be a good humoured and very instructive concert. Dressed in period costume with a dashing feather in his cap, Peter Bull treated his audience to a range of airs and ballads from the time of King Charles I.
His quiet and unprepossessing manner immediately endeared him to all present and he soon had feet tapping to the brisk rhythm of the hurdy-gurdy. A carefully constructed introduction to each instrument — the aforementioned hurdy-gurdy, the flute, dulcimer and lute, and the type of tune about to be played or sung, added to the enjoyment of the evening.
Although lacking the nuances of later music with its elaborate crescendos and embellishments, Peter Bull gave his audience an insight into the vigour and love of words and music enjoyed during the period of the English Civil War and the early renaissance.
"Musical Wizard:" Peter Bull at Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire
Against the backdrop of the oak-panelled Great Hall, and under the hooded gaze of Lord Preston's impressive portrait, Peter Bull, resplendent in black velvet and sporting a large ostrich-feather hat, took us through a tour of the music and instruments of the Civil War. The Hall itself was used as lodgings for the Roundheads and one could imagine the music echoing down the centuries to a very different audience.
Peter Bull performed two different concerts, beginning with a selection of tunes by John Playford (1651), played with great dexterity on the hurdy-gurdy (or wheel fiddle), a cross between a violin and the bagpipes! In contrast, he then performed the popular Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes (Ben Johnson) and Gather Ye Rosebuds (William Lawes) on the lute.
This was followed by further dances from The English Dancing Master on the alto recorder and dulcimer, an instrument popular at the time of Pepys. Peter Bull finished both performances with a rousing jig on the hurdy-gurdy and then answered questions from the public.
Peter Bull has been delighting and informing audiences in historic locations for 20 years, with music from the 13th to 17th centuries, for which he wears authentic hand-made costumes, and plays up to six different instruments.
Gawthorpe Hall,Padiham, near Burnley,Lancashire
If music be the food of love,then heritage musician Peter Bull has enough on his menu for a medieval banquet....Peter's popular recitals and talks really brought the hall to life....visitors were able to enjoy a truly authentic 17th century experience.