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I am really stressing starting my new job. No cool cucumber here. I am a bit worried I will be to tired to exercise, or not eat well. New things are so hard to gauge. Can you tell I like to control my future?
Today was a medium day for me. I got up and whined to myself how I didn't want to walk in the cold. I am not a cold kind of person. I would love snow if it could exist in 70 degree weather... oh wait that is what Hollywood is for :). After I woke up, whined about the cold to myself and a few furry friends I then remembered the ummm incident I had yesterday with my elliptical.
Imagine this: A 265ish, 5'6" woman up on her elliptical, confidently pumping her weight filled arms gliding her legs like a cross country skier, hair in the wind, racing through the terrain when all of a sudden she must have hit a patch of hard snow because weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee... bam bammmmmmmmmm booommmmmm! The once confident gliding snow goddess is now a puddle of goosh on the floor. It takes me a minute to realize that I have now been ejected from my fantasy into a now painful reality. First thought... have I broken my bum? Well did I? Pat pat pat... no it's still intact.. yes every bit of it. I lay there looking up at the ceiling and I hear a familar voice say... well I guess I can't exercise anymore.. he he h.. I mean oh no!!!! Reality check kicked in. I thought if I don't get back up on that thing and work out I am doing the same old thing again. Letting excuses and circumstance dictate who I am and where I want to be. So I got back up on the monster and continued on.
Okay back to today. I checked my bum and it was sore and bruised but alas no serious reason to not get up and do exercise. Don't think I didn't try other things too. I got onto facebook, I talked on here, I even looked up other forms of entertainment... hulu was not helpful either. So I gave in and got busy. It felt...
Okay! I felt good knowing I got in some exercise and housework. I didn't do all that my nagging perfectionist wanted me too but all in all I accept the decisions I made today. Yeah even the eating chinese which tasted oh so good but after putting it into the food tracker realize it was oohhhhh so bad for me. Mental note Chinese is a few occasions a year thing. Okay stored that away with pizza at 700 calories a slice.
I think in changing my life style which is what I really am trying to do I have to accept my actions. If for some reason I can't accept them then I need to do something about them but as a passage in Luke 9... no one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom... and I think even in everyday life if I want to move forward then looking back all the time just keeps me from doing that.
Motivational Tune of the day... CLICK HERE!
Morning Folks.
In week one I struggled with getting back into a good routine. I ate smaller healthier portions and started the exercise slowly. I felt pumped and positive. I lost 3lbs the first week and that increased my momentum.
In week two my plan was more refined. I really started to focus in on what I need to do to meet my goals. I made a motivation poster and posted on my spark page and my home wall. I increased my exercise and really kicked booty. I was thrilled with my push forward. I have people standing behind me cheering me on. I lost 2lbs but then the scale on weigh in day showed no such weight loss. I was bummed a bit. I had worked hard but the results weren't there. I remembered back to a previous attempt to get healthy and remember that this is common sometimes. Just like week two on the Biggest Loser I won't lose the pounds I am looking for and there might not be a good reason.
Starting week three I am try to stay positive and motivated. I won't lie and say that the no pound lost thing hasn't somewhat bummed me out. I really wanted to meet my goals. I could go and get some ding dongs and say well at least I tried. NOT! I know that the thing to do is to sit down and review what I did. If I don't find anything in the plan I need to change then I need to move on and go forward. I can't lose weight or get healthy sitting on my bum having a pity party. The only thing standing between my goals and me is ME!
I know there are others out there who like me have had those weeks when there isn't a loss or it was a bad week. I have had weeks before where I lost jobs or my kid was horrible. Days that I just wanted to stay in bed and mop. I just wanted to shut down and turn off. It seems so tough to get up and keep doing what you know you need to do for you. I just want a chance to have more good days then bad. I want to know that I gave myself ever opportunity to be the best me I could be. No Regrets! That is what I want my kid to have and why shouldn't that apply to me as well. I deserve to fly too!
Ta ta for now!
I am using Sparkpeople to assist in my journey. Check it out.
I can't believe this year is almost over. It seems like it just began. And it has been an emotional few years too. But it has been successful too. I have gone back to college, gained more confidence and started getting healthier. I am amazed by it all.
I am currently working on my journey to lose over 100 lbs. As of this past weigh in on Saturday I am down 3lbs. To get me to my goal of a weight between 130 and 150 lbs. I am starting with walking 2 miles a day and alternating on odd and even days with circuit training and my elliptical. I am also trying to make better eating habits. I actually am not a big junk food junkie. I think my biggest kryptonite is sweets, breads and sugar. I actually done well in the last week to cut down my intake of sugar but still am struggling with breads. I made cinnamon rolls this last weekend for a gathering and did okay until Sunday night. Bam! I found myself eating two of those devilish things. Hey I'm not going to pretend that they weren't great. Those delicious morsels however are going to cost me one way or the other. I need to hold myself accountable and say hey if you eat those yummies then guess what you get to do some extra exercise to get rid of them. We will see if I can accomplish this. I am not a health nut convert yet.
As far as activity this weekend was okay. I walked my 2 miles both days. I also got together with my "cluster" which is a group church that meets in a person's home. It was an awesome time. We prayed and thanked God. I have been told and found that being gracious and having a thankful heart and attitude improves your life 100%. I am grateful that I have been given 2nd and 3rd chances. I am grateful that I have the means to realize my dreams.
If you're looking to get healthier and are looking for a resource to help with that I would highly recommend www.sparkpeople.com. I know several folks who have been able to go from couch to running marathons. Others have lost a grown man in weight. It has tons of support and resources that fit easily into your life.
If you're looking to get healthier and are looking for a resource to help with that I would highly recommend www.sparkpeople.com. I know several folks who have been able to go from couch to running marathons. Others have lost a grown man in weight. It has tons of support and resources that fit easily into your life.
Well I need to wrap this up. I am glad I get to share my journey with you. Life is just more fun when it is lived with others. I hope you really will look into Sparkpeople. It is well worth it. As this week progresses I am going to continue trying to stay in a heart and attitude of grateful living. I wish the same for all of you. Ta ta for now!
Well I need to wrap this up. I am glad I get to share my journey with you. Life is just more fun when it is lived with others. I hope you really will look into Sparkpeople. It is well worth it. As this week progresses I am going to continue trying to stay in a heart and attitude of grateful living. I wish the same for all of you. Ta ta for now!
Today's tune of inspiration: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PWunLT7Wgw
Hotel Love :) And the street in front of it is made of bricks as well... which is original to the beginning of the town.
The sunlight is just peaking throught the clouds.
Next is a Clematis that we have planted near our front walk way.
I am not sure what this one is. I know that it is a flowering vine. The white flowers are small and smells nice.
These are purple mexican petunias. Very pretty but not much of a fragrance.
Now for the Morning Glories which are both one of my favorite and birthday flowers. I love the blue. I was nervous there for a bit that they wouldn't bloom but here they are with another flower in my garden.
And to round it off like Christer would here is a picture of our cat Patches as he lays in front of my computer screen. When he wants attention he wants it now in standard fat cat style.
Ta ta for now...
1.) Who is going to pay for healthcare for the public and to reform the current system?
2.) How will it impact Johnny Q Public
Let's be honest here folks. Corporate America and the Rich will not be funding this endeavor. The rich did not become rich by giving out handfuls of cash to provide for a whole nation. They smartly have their money tied up in stuff and in offshore accounts. The rich don't see the average person as their concern. The government will never touch it. No we are going to pay for it and our future generations to come.
The flipside to the coin is how will it affect good old me? Well if you are white upper middle to upper class college educated it will probably affect your pocket book some. A few changes may occur on how your insurance is run. Other than that you are cover as usual. You can go get your tummy tucks, breast implants and buy whatever procedure you need to save your life.
Now don't get me wrong. I in no way believe we are currently able to do Obamacare. Politicians are heavily influence by corporate America. I don't believe I would like my healthcare options to be decided by any of them since their priorities will not be about me but about what pharmaceutical company is the highest bidder or what perk some insurance mogul provided. I am a person. I have a name. And I deserve adequate healthcare free from capitalistic gain. My health and well being should not be less important than your profits.
What would you do if you found yourself ill, going to die and the only thing that would help is the selfless life gift from another person? Until recently I had never even considered it. I had talked with family and friends about being a donor, but had decided it wasn't for me. The thought of giving a piece of my own body up when I die or even living scared me. It seemed so final. I wonder how many others feel close to what I felt.
I was looking up information about this and came across a few tidbits of info. There are more than 75,000 people in the United States waiting for a transplant. Only a quarter of those waiting will get a transplant that will save their life. (http://socialissues.wiseto.com/Topics/OrganDonation/) Before the more recent weeks I would have seen that number and it would have made me think. Thinking though just isn't enough anymore. When it became more personal to me I could no longer sit back and let my fears, misconcepts and inaction keep me from doing the right thing.
I recently had an old friend reintroduced to me. When we were younger he was the goofy young kid who was a nice guy and a good friend. I don't think I know of anyone who could say they didn't like him. In getting to know him a bit again it turns out that he is currently waiting for a heart transplant. This nice guy is 8 months in on his wait time. I was curious about it one day, the ins and outs, and it turns out that unlike getting blood most transplant recipients wait for a donor of the same blood type. Not only do they normally wait for the blood type to match but other factors come into play as well. My friend not only must hope to be the 1 in 4 but also must match his donor with various other factors. This information really boggles my mind. I can't even imagine how a transplant patient or donor family feels.
So I made the plunge. It was relatively easy folks. I signed up on two different sites. I wanted to make sure not only was my name in my local registry but also nationally. It was important because I have one of the rare blood types.
That means folks who have my blood type are less likely to get the organ they need. Here is one if you live in the USA: http://www.donatelife.net/ . Registering though isn't enough. It is simple to do but you must also let your family know and if possible include it in a will. Also some states allow you to put that you are an organ donor on your driver's license. You can also get a card and put it in your wallet in case you get into an accident. I also gave a card to my parents to help them to remember my wishes. These actions alone don't guarantee your organs will be donated, but it does make the likelihood greater.
No one wants to think about dying. I certainly don't like too. This is more than about dying it is about living… and living on through others. What could be a greater way to leave this world? Ta ta for now…
I love Rock n Roll. Music in general just sets my mood and takes me to a different place. I was chatting with a few peeps about some tunes earlier today. The subject was about Chicago. I think this band is an all-time classic rock band with a killer horn section and magic guitarists. Take for instance the song "Saturday in the Park". That song just makes me want to get up and twirl around like a little girl taking in the sunshine and freedom. If you have never had the chance to experience it please take a listen:
Saturday in the Park – Chicago (on Youtube)
Did you feel it? See it? Yup the magical experience still happens every time. It reminds me of when I was little. We had a field that stretched between my house and the road that led to my grandparent's house a mile away. When the grass was high and the sun played peek-a-boo in the sky, I would actually twirl round and round in that field soaking in the sensation. Sometimes there were castles to conquer or adventures to find. In the winter there were forts of snow to build and mazes to roam in. In one song I can go back to those moments and feel it all again. Who can beat that, right!
Another fun song that has me dancing in my seat is Rubberband Man. If I had a Friday song it would probably be this one. Who wouldn't want to shake their tail feathers to that tune. Don't believe me then check it out:
Rubberband Man – The Spinners (on Youtube)
I think I love the blue suits they are sporting almost as much as the song. Wiggle Wiggle Wiggle! You know you want to! Great tunes can just make my day! I hope these made yours. Ta ta for now…
Do you ever sit there and wonder to yourself about what your doing and where you're going? Lately, I have had a lot of set backs. I was looking at a quote of the day... and I couldn't help but want to just give that person who said it what for.
When fate hands us lemons, let's try to make lemonade. -- Dale Carnegie
Well Mr. Carnegie... I think I currently have a lemon grove. Anyone want some lemons, figuratively of course? Then I started thinking. Have you ever made homemade lemonade? You really can't make good lemonade with just one lemon. No to make this tasty drink you need quite a few juicy ones. Then you have to do some work. I mean you could try and put those lemons whole in a pitcher and let that be that but I assure you it won't taste right. Only after getting the right amount of lemons, cutting them, squeezing them and adding the right ingredients will it end up the way it should. Don't get me wrong. I still don't like his saying, but logically I guess it makes sense. Now I guess since I have all these lemons, perhaps I need to figure out what to do with them so that I make them into some great lemonade. I really don't have a clue.
Someone else, who I'm guessing has a bit more experience than I, said to me that that each thing in life is a lesson for us to learn. If we don't learn the lesson we get the opportunity to keep trying. Sometimes I think some folks should just stop trying. Does that mean that sometimes the lesson is to just surrender? I feel like sometimes it is. Surrendering is hard. It means that I know longer wish to control the outcome. It also means that I don't know what is going to happen exactly. Okay so I really didn't know before but I did have the illusion that I might possibly know. That is scary. I know it is getting pretty deep in here. I should be glad that I always where my big boots and goggles while I wade through it. I will leave you with these thoughts to ponder. Ta ta for now....
Today I started pondering an idea I have had for a little while. When I get old and gingered I think I want to open a diner or a b&b. I have thought about it before but what made today different is that I actually started writing out menu ideas. I actually really enjoyed the brainstorming.
If you know me you know I love to cook. Someone could name a main dish or say I feel like something and I for some reason can pair up a meal in just a few minutes. Not sure if my idea would work but I made some banana nut bread last night and I am definately sure that will be on the menu.
I also got invited to go camping at the Illinois River in Western Oklahoma. Amazing isn't it. Here I was just a few days ago wanting to go and the opportunity shows up. I hope it works out because I have always wanted to go to the location I was invited too. Some of the activities that are apart of the trip are kayaking or canoeing down the river, eating around a fire, swimming, and just plain messing around with old friends. I am super excited about it. My son would also be able to go and hang out with some of his childhood buds. I love making hot dogs over a fire. I wish we could also go fishing but the job situation kind of puts a money problem which means I can't get a fishing license right now. I can hear the birds waking me up and the crickets singing me to sleep. Ta ta for now...
Okay I don't normally talk about food here but I just found out I missed Guy from Diners, Drive Ins and Dives visiting a local establishment. I was so excited when I saw the article on it:
http://www.normantranscript.com/features/local_story_142012601?start:int=0 . He visited last Wednesday a place on Main St in Norman, OK called simply The Diner. The Diner is a tradition in Norman. If you don't get there early on a Saturday you may have no seat. The pancakes are awesome and the atmosphere is upbeat. I know exactly why Guy visited this place. It looks like the show won't be on for 2 to 6 months though.
I read something in a little news piece about one of Obama's hotty helpers. Mr. Love seems to have turned the head of affairs rather quickly. In fact he is seen as a mover and shaker to come. I think in 4 years he will probably be primed and ready to live a life of political royalty. Well unless Obama is ousted in a bed of scandal or ruin. But then that's politics of course and my opinion.
On a lighter note, I woke up the other morning and stepped outside. The sweet smell of summer was in the air. I stepped back into my memories of camping and waking to the flowing stream outside my tent. I love to hear the birds in the morning, the roaring of early folks on the water and their boats humming. The day of simplicity waits for me outside my fabric domain.
I hope that I will be able to enjoy that again this year. I closed my eyes the other day and thought of where I might go. Even today with not much to do out of the ordinary I long for the easy breezy experience. Summers seem to be the time when the world slows down and everything seems lighter and breathtaking. Well summer is just arising so who knows what might happen. Ta ta for now...
This morning, after mopping around, I decided to go for a walk. Last night my son and I were talking and I pointed out to him how the only way to change things you don't like is to do something about it. So what does this have to do with a walk? Well I am just going to say it. I have been in a pity party for one for way to long. I needed to get out and clear my head so amidst the noon day sun I took off down the road.
I walked for about a quarter of a mile and came to my all to familiar stop sign and detour. As I walked closer to it I started thinking about turning the opposite way. Nervousness held me. Going that way leads deeper into the country. In the country there is less traffic and possible danger. Okay so I am probably just blowing a bit out of proprotion I tell myself. See I have seen and experienced things in my life that that make me leary. I tend to find myself in situations that are scary so making a decision to travel down the direction less taken isn't a light one for me. It means I have to face my fears.
I thougth about when I was a child. I loved Robert Frost's poem "The Road Less Taken". I pledged to myself to not be "one of the crowd". To take a chance at going to where others won't go. That road has been full of rich wisdom and knowledge. I have gone down it and came out a live. I don't think I really realized that that road less traveled is a lonely scary road. Now here I am with a real road less traveled wondering should I turn and walk down it.
I turned down the road and the smells of the grass in the field and the creek running brought me back to my childhood. Times where I remember walking miles to my sisters friends houses or jumping off the tree trunk into the murkey waters of the creek by our house. Lazily swimming in its cool waters, splashing and taking in the war sun. Riding bikes down the dirt roads, struggling to ride up the hills but flying down them giggling all the way.
I walked down that road today. I savored the warm sun and tried to stop my brain from analyzing and culminating all the information that lies within. I saw the graceful way the bays in the field pranced around. I heard the birds busy with their day. One more piece of my journey down this thickly overgrowned pathway. Do you go the road expected or down the road of mystery?
Ta ta for now....
Today I let myself get dirty. I dug in deep and got down to the nitty gritty. Okay enough of the play on words. I planted some more seeds into my garden. I planted some english daises, cosmos, red poppies, asters, dahlias, forget-me-nots, johnny-jump-ups, blue morning glorys, lavender, sweet williams, Indian blankets, etc.
Well today isn't going to be full of government bashing. Sorry if you were hoping for that. Today I kind of want to be a bit personal. I struggle with alot with my son. I don't really want to go into detail about it because I feel it would be an infringement on his right to privacy. But unless you have been where I have in this journey I don't think you could ever imagine it. Children can be such a wonder, but to see them struggle especially when it is a great struggle is heart breaking.
This is him trying to do an ollie!
Yesterday seem to be a good day for us. I took some cool pictures of him doing his thing. We drove home and talked some. I teased him and we watched a movie together. He is getting so old now. I know the days are getting shorter and further away from the days when he was a little boy.
Today was a bad day. He was struggling. I was struggling. And harmony was not ours. Some days I want to scream CALGON TAKE ME AWAY :)! But that just isn't realistic. Some might say I made my bed now I need to lay in it. I want to wish them a glimpse of my journey in their lives. Perhaps then they won't be so snap to judge or offer "advice". One thing that did happen good today is I found someplace that has others who have been or are on my journey. It did confirm something for me as well. Not something positive but at least I am not left wondering. If you know people who are parents that struggle please stop and give them a hand. Offer a cup of coffee, a smile, a plate of cookies. That one thing could be their saving grace for that day. Just a thought.
Ta ta for now....
Strong claims I know but look at what we are allowing to happen. President Obama claimed he would make the wealthy pay and help the "common man". Today, I haven't seen one step closer to helping the "common man" but it does look like he is just continuing on with what our government, and we as the people, have allowed for at least the last 20 years. Making more debt and promoting Americans to buy buy buy is their message. It is sponsored by big corporations and financial institutions. But what are we buying? Some might call it our own slavery.
Take a look at this....
The video is just one of many I found that describe the myth we have bought into. Today I watched a documentary called Maxed Out. Here is a little snapshot of a summary I got from Netflix:
"Investigating both the personal and the national debt owed by Americans, this thought-provoking documentary explores the staggering financial burden we live with every day and exposes how the contemporary financial industry is set up in ways that can harm unwitting customers. With both sobering facts and black humor, Maxed Out unveils the consequences of our debt addiction, including its contribution to the vanishing of the American middle class. "
I wish I could show you the whole thing but if you are interested you can watch it via Netflix. I was shocked but I shouldn't have been. It shows a clip of the 2005 Credit Conference the government held before they signed into law a bill proposed by a Credit Financer to prevent people from filing bankruptcy. In the same documentary it showed people who were going to get their houses taken away but in the same week they were losing their house they also received a letter from the institutions that were foreclosing saying please borrow more money from us because you are a valued customer. People whose relatives felt so distraught over their debt that they committed suicide were still receiving offers for more credit years after they had died. What is wrong with us?
How can we ever have the American dream when we can't afford it and the rich keep on getting richer off of the "common man" and his inability to wake up from his dream world?
The government looks as if it is more in the pocket of the corporations and no longer works for you or me. Until we wake up and demand change… I don't think it will ever change. But I don't think punishing the common man will work… he is a slave to a system he wasn't aware he was being bought into. No we have to start by demanding our government relinquish its ties to corporate America. And I think that can only be the start of it… maybe take away their ability to give themselves raises… make being a career politician less lucrative. These are some of my random thoughts out there for you to mull over.
Ta ta for now….
This is a tulip from my garden. I just planted it in the fall so its life has actually just begun here.
This is some variegated vinca that I planted a few years ago. It has lovely indigo flowers.
Not sure what vine this is... but it has beautiful yellow flowers.Strawberry plants blooming
Some of my daffodills.
I have recently come to a time of reflection in my life as I have said before. I recently read something that asks you to consider a scenerio. The scenerio is you have just been to the doctor. You have been told you only have one year to live. It goes on to ask you to imagine what you would do... who would be with you... what would you say to those you love... what unfinished projects would be important to finish... and where would spend your final days. It goes on to propose that you reflect on this and ask yourself why you don't make these things a priority in your life. No one is guaranteed a tomorrow. I thought it was an awesome thing that brings alot of things into perspective. I only have this one life. I shouldn't allow me to keep me from living it the way I was meant to.
Oklahoma Sunset....
Ta ta for now....
Today has been a day of reflecting. I keep hoping my big epiphanies about life will get me more quickly to where I wish I was but I guess you can only take one step at a time. A good by product of them however is the cleansing feeling I get after I have one. It is as if a good spring rain came up and washed all the mud from my mind.
Have you bathed in the flood of awareness...
Ta ta for now....
I don't have a clue what happens tomorrow... okay that isn't completely true. I have class tomorrow, but besides that I have no clue what adventure lies out there. I really do think it is time for me to get simple and clean. Take away the clutter and junk. Look at that beautiful sky. I think I could wake up to that every day and still be amazed.
Ta ta for now...
The people who get on in the world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want. ---George Bernard Shaw
I am in the process of changing my way of thinking. Trying to change my bad habits and ways of living is a challenge. We are almost a quarter of the way through the year. The New Years resolutions I made back in January have been put on the back burner to some extent. So does that mean that I can't make them? I think that there comes a time in every goal where I need to sit back and reflect where I came from, where I am at now and is where I am going the destination I want. I had a professor tell a class I was taking that it takes 21 days to make habit. If your struggling and not sure you can make it just think you could just be 5 days from your life changing to the goal you are looking for.
What do you think?
Ta ta for now...
I am actually reflecting on the one and only Fat Tuesday celebration I have ever been too. There was booze. There were people giving away beads and it was in the heart of New Orleans. Shocker I know. Me in the middle of party central.
I actually was there with 10 other individuals from my college in 1996. It was the year that they opened up Hollywood Planet. I couldn't believe how they had to backdown the street way to let the limo with the three models who own it get out. Anyway, back to the 10 individuals and myself. We were there for a different kind of party. This was my first missions outreach experience.
No we weren't the people with the signs signfying that everyone was going to hell. I was so ashamed of the actions of those people. No instead we worked with a college from the area and went in groups of two walking around just talking to people. I had the opportunity to talk to these two guys who some how got their happy drunk butts stuck together with their beads. I was nice and untangled them so they didn't hang each other.
I learned what a ghetto really looks like and how you definately should dig deeper in a person that just their cover. We met gutter punks and world travelers. We also thought we had found a dead guy. It was actually very scary. Someone went up to him and tried to see if he was okay. We actually ended up getting a police officer. Don't worry he was still alive.
I really did enjoy that trip. I got to see how awesome it is when I let God use me. I don't have to be anything special just willing to yield.
Ta ta for now...
This week has been well interesting to put it simply. I had my trust and friendship violated and betrayed. I had a thought tonight about how much expectations play in how I trust. I expect others to treat me the way I try to treat them, to respect me and be as I don't know... But how realistic is that. Not very I guess.
Erickson brings up that if a infant loses their trust at an early age they can struggle with it for the rest of their lives. The trust vs mistrust can be dealt with in a later stage but until it is the mistrust colors the child's life. I have been thinking on that and how it relates to my life.
I also have been thinking about should I really trust anyone. Is there anyone who is out there who isn't looking out for #1? Have we as a society come so far from our establishment of community that we no longer are able to build real relationships and trust with each other. Do we always have to be on our guard for what the other person really wants or their real purpose?
Power is another things. When did power become more important than loving our neighbor as ourselves? Lording power over another whether it be overtly or covertly how is that better than building healthy relationships. One of my professors last week talked about intimacy and the USA. Intimacy isn't about sex. It can involve it but it is about something so much more. My professor was showing that Americans struggle with being intimate with one another. We are causes and not trusting of others. I wonder if this could just be another powerful symptom to a disease that permeates our shores.
What do you think?
Ta ta for now...
Can we have science and religion? I am going into Psychology and Sociology. I have read many things that tell me that I cannot hold to these sciences and still cling to my religious thoughts. Can this be true. Must I grasp the Darwinism and Nature argument? I challenge you to view this video and just as I am asked to be open to the views that oppose mine I ask you to allow these to stimulate thought and dialog about something that currently is being muzzled in the scientific community.
for the rest of this go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeM8lqyXGzg
Ta ta for now....
Tonight, my thoughts are on the devastating fires and flooding in Australia. I believe I heard on the news something that echos my thoughts that it seems so strange to have such vastly different devastation occurring at the same time so close together. I believe from what I last read the fires had killed over 131 people who have been verified as dead with over 500 still missing. Aid and assistance is pouring in from Indonesia, New Zealand, and other places. Though the officials have no doubt that many of the blazes were set they are not releasing any names yet. Over 10,000 animals in the wild have lost their lives as well.
Times like these do tend to bring people together and perhaps give them reason to pause on reflection in regards to how they are living their lives. Some become closer to God or a religious aspect. In psychology some might say this is "terror management". We recognize our own mortality and grasp for something to give us peace or calm to this fear. So is religion holding tightly to some magical thinking that makes us feel safe or more secure in the fact that we will one day die or to deal with difficult situations or is it something that we hold onto because despite our mortality or painful/fearful situations it is real. That God or whatever we ascribe too has changed us. That we have had a true experience that cannot be gauged by what is going on in our lives.
If Terror Management is true does that mean people who are healthier and live less stressful lives are more likely to not be religious? Hmmm. Or if you are poorer and live in a dire setting will that mean you are more religious?
I think some things just can't be explained. Some of what the theory says is probably true for some. However, just because something can't be logically explained doesn't mean that it doesn't exist or is real. Some things just are. If a child reaches out to catch the wind will it not slip between the small fingers and leave the child's grasp empty. Sometimes I wonder what I am doing going into this field when I see so many things that go against my values. Then I remember I am on this journey for a reason. I believe that this is the direction God is leading me in.
So where do you stand?
Ta ta for now...
I was glancing over news worthy articles when I ran across one that made me whence in fear. Apparently, while I was at work today and everyone else was using cardboard to sleighed, the postmaster general was recommending that the rule that establishes a 6 day a week mandatory mail service be lifted. So what's the big deal? The post master is suggesting that post offices be able to choose when to deliver, generally choosing to not deliver on days that are the lightest in mail. Wow so what happen to whether rain, or sleet or whatever the rest of it is the mail person will deliver my mail?
We seem to be in such dire times that even the post office can't do its job. Since email, blogging, cell phones and other types of communication have become popular, good ole' snail mail seems to be sadly falling to the waist side. I am a bit surprised they didn't ask for a bailout, everyone else is.
The story actually reminded me something a friend told me. She was having some trouble with her mail person picking up her mail. It seems that picking up mail is now an option according the local establishment. I wonder how she will fare now that the post office is so destitute that it can't deliver the mail either.
Scary times folks. Have you hugged your local post person today? http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090129/ap_on_go_ot/meltdown_post_office_22
Ta ta for now...
I have been busy the last few days. I am taking 16 credit hours of college as well as work 40 hrs a wk so to say I am busy seems a misstatement. The good things so far is 3 of the classes have kind of started on the same foot, scientific method. I am really glad because I am still trying to organize myself so I get it all done and done right. Three of the classes are very important because they are classes that go toward my major. Making a good grade in them is a must.
Okay so I stopped for a few minutes to give my brain a recess and created the following...
This really isn't too random. I am actually studying the different theories and stages so I decided to get creative with one of them. Sometimes doing something like this helps me to remember them better. I have learned about Erikson's Theory before but I needed some refreshing.
Besides studying I actually got some away time this morning at church. I baked some yummy cinnamon rolls (homemade) and had a interesting conversation about entitlement vs servant mentality/how we live our lives vs the role model Jesus presented for us. A lot of great discussion and information. I love it when you can sit with friends and acquaintances discussing things and everyone pitches in so that when you walk away you have a even more balanced thought.
I also read about an article put out by the AP. It discussed the current proposed stimulus initiative and how lobbyist and special interests groups are not counting themselves out even though Pres. Obama has said he will put a stipulation on it so that the money doesn't go to earmarks (pork belly legislation). They are probably right next to me in terms of the thought that the groups have politicians to much in their pockets. The article actually stated as much. The good ole boy mentality of you scratch my back then I'll scratch yours will never be done away with or at least watched over better unless someone really looks into what is going on. I don't think it should be anyone with interests in the outcome either. That tends to push bias into any reports that are made.
Well I guess I need to get back to eeekkkkk evolution and life-span development. I am not a supporter of evolution so I guess I will just grit my teeth and push forward.
Ta ta for now.
I was talking with a friend, she blogs at http://www.misswisabus.com/, today about the state of our nation, mommy blogger and social aspects. Some how we got into a discussion on conformity and I had a thought and my blog topic tonight.
As I have written before, a professor of mine and I am sure others feel that humanity is inherently good. Some of the proof that the professor lined out was how people waved hello to people who pass by. I was walking into the college I attend and opened the door for someone. The thought about humanity being inherently good popped in my head. I don't know why I am struggling with that phrase. Perhaps because it goes against values and morals that I deeply believe? What if I am wrong? Then does what I believe about humanities goodness mean that I am also wrong about other strong held beliefs. Before I start going insane because I have now found out the sky is really red and the grass purple I came to this thought.
What if really people are just conformist? People here in Middle America wave at each other because it is what you do. People open doors for others because it is what they know to do. It is not about that good feeling you get when you step out to be nice or being friendly. No it is doing what you know is expected or desired in society. It is more of a learned response just like when someone asks you how you are. The normal learned response is fine and how are you? I am sure that some do it out of friendliness or for the warm fuzzy. I know I do it normally because I guess I wanted to be treated with the same respect and kindness. But I observe others and I don't know if they give much thought into why the do what they do.
I don't know if there is anything wrong with that. I see things that raise a flag for me. Tonight I also watched Horton Hears a Who. Wow do I have a lot of thoughts about that movie and some things I understood from it. Perhaps a discussion for another night. To be or not to be a conformist... not sure which one. Maybe that is one more reason I am just a visiting voyeur. My heart leads me away from the confines of society and leave me standing on the outside with what I hold to.
Ta ta for now...


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First impressions count.
Before patients contact your practice, they receive an impression of your service from your logo, your brochures, website and other materials ... your visual identity.
Visual identity encompasses the entire look and feel of your medical practice - starting with your logomark.
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It puts your website and all your materials to work, conveying and reinforcing your identity over and over again.
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Komms-Haus understands the medical sector
and creates outstanding graphic design
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Komms-Haus have experience with medical specialisations, and can deliver a strong visual identity as well as detailed information design, for when you need to explain a medical procedure to a broad audience.
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As a bonus offer for new clients, we are offering the full brand report for $190 for a short time (with value at over $400).

subset: commoncrawl


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A Day to Play is our performance workshop programme for children and young people
We offer truly unique dance classes for children and young people that are based on our critically acclaimed productions.
A Day to Play is the perfect mix of performance by professional dancers with an interactive workshop designed for all the family to take part in (even the grown-ups!) Each session is led by professional dancers and our award winning director and first ever Artist in Residence at BBC Radio 2, Thomas Small.
Each month, in partnership with brilliant cultural organisations in Dundee, we present brand new versions of our critically acclaimed productions that have toured the world, in the coolest locations! A Day to Play allows children and young people to be adventurous and explore creativity alongside expert pro dancers.
The sessions help children and young people to develop their self-confidence through a range of stimulating exercises and encourage problem solving and collaboration with others. From the moment you arrive at A Day to Play until the moment you leave, you are immersed in new, exciting worlds!
A Day to Play is intergenerational so they are suitable for children and young people from the age of 2 to 16 and we would LOVE for families to come along too and either join in the playtime with a creative adventure with your kids or just sit back and watch the show. Carers, grannies, aunties and best pals are all welcome - the more the merrier! You don't need ANY experience to enjoy A Day to Play so come give it a whirl.
No workshop is ever the same and there is NOTHING else like this in Dundee! So, come spend a magical Sunday afternoon with Shaper/Caper! Check out our first three performance workshops below! Looking for something for adults? Check out The Shaper/Caper Social Club here!
The first workshop takes place on Sunday 11th December 2pm to 3.15pm at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum as part of The People's Story celebrating McManus 150, the 150th anniversary of the The McManus and is FREE!
Book here...
Isabel's Christmas Adventure
Sunday 11th December - 2pm to 3.15pm at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery and Museum.
Our first A Day To Play is an epic adventure with our popular heroine, Isabel from our critically acclaimed production The Adventures of Isabel.
Isabel isn't really feeling the Christmas spirit so her friend Mr Elf tries to help her find some! They sail off to the North Pole in the hope of meeting Santa Claus, and make some friends along the way! Come join us on Isabel's Christmas Adventure! Featuring sing-a-long Christmas tunes, interactive animations and opportunities to dress up and play - this is a proper Christmas treat for all the family! If you're looking for a Christmas show.....look no further!
Suitable for children and young people of all ages (2+). Adults are very welcome to join in and play along or watch with their child.
Book tickets here! Tickets are FREE as part of The People's Story celebrating McManus 150, the 150th anniversary of the The McManus! You MUST book a free ticket here as we expect this show to sell out as there are only 40 seats available!


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Lessons in leadership by Shamelle Rice
All Queen's Young Leaders Award winners receive an intensive year-long online leadership course to develop skills and expertise, as well as a residential week in the UK. During their visit the young people get the opportunity to meet some of the UK's top business leaders who are able to share their experiences.
Here Shamelle Rich, one of this year's winners from Barbados, talks about some of the lessons she learnt:
"'Energised.' This one word sums up my experience of the Queen's Young Leaders residential week. I can truly say that there have been, or will probably ever be, few things in my life that have impacted, or will have such an impact on, my life as that week did.
The lessons learnt were endless, particularly those centred around leadership and success. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet and to be exposed to some of the most successful people in their spheres, and the wealth of knowledge shared by them.
One such individual was entrepreneur and philanthropist Lloyd Dorfman. During a speech he gave at The Shard in London, he shared some key tips to his success which really stood out to me. Firstly, he spoke of persistence. Persistence is vital in any area, because nothing substantial and meaningful grows overnight. As a young leader, this encouraged me because there are some days as I go about my work, seeking to impact lives, that frustration tries to set in. However, we can all be fully confident that persistence wins every time.
Another statement made by Mr Dorfman that struck me was: "Conventional thinking will only get you conventional results." As a leader, I must challenge myself daily to discard conventional paradigms and "playing it safe" thinking. This is the only way to see real and lasting impact.
One of the final take-aways from Mr Dorfman was that of having "self-belief". Self-belief makes all the difference and is the great equaliser of human beings, regardless of colour, class or creed. Nothing can withstand the force of someone with true self-belief.
The entire Queen's Young Leaders residential week was filled with rich nuggets of expertise, coupled with practical tips for application. Putting it all into words is almost impossible. Nevertheless, what I can say is that the experience is one that will serve me a lifetime. Both me and my organisation are all the better for it!"
Shamelle is one of 2016's recipients of a Queen's Young Leaders Award. The Award, which was presented by Her Majesty The Queen in June, is part of The Queen's Young Leaders Programme, and celebrates the achievements of young people who are taking the lead to transform the lives of others and make a lasting difference in the communities.
If you, or someone you know is doing exceptional work in your community, applications are now open for the Queen's Young Leaders of 2017.


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Respite in the Pine Haunt [LIMITED EDITION PRINT]
Respite in the Pine Haunt [LIMITED EDITION PRINT]
The 13x19" print is a signed and numbered Limited Edition print including a white border. Printed on premium fine art paper in a very limited edition of 25.
Ships everywhere in the world! Please allow up to 1-2 weeks of time to prepare to ship as they are custom printed and hand-packaged.
Thank you, I am grateful for your support!
Add To Cart


text: GMU Women's Club Basketball is comprised of a competitive group of girls who are passionate about the game of basketball. We are looking for women who can bring something to the team and that are willing to dedicate their time. We will practice regularly and travel to other schools. If you are thinking about coming out be prepared to work hard and most of all have fun!


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Wunderlich Securities Reiterates Buy on Casella Waste Systems, Reduces PT to $8.50
Wunderlich Securities reiterates its Buy rating on Casella Waste Systems (NASDAQ: CWST). At the same time, Wunderlich reduced its price target on the company's stock to $8.50.
In a research report published today, Wunderlich states, "We are reaffirming our Buy rating but are reducing our price target to $8.50 on Casella Waste (CWST) shares. Not surprising, 4Q11 was sloppy, and as the baseline for improvement sets a low starting point, correspondingly, FY12 guidance is muted at best... The quarterly progress to expand margins is likely to be modest in 1Q, 2Q, and gains momentum in 3Q and 4Q, with 1Q13 at or near the 25% target."
At the moment, Casella is trading around $5.69, or 2.34% above yesterday's close.
Posted-In: Casella Waste Systems WunderlichAnalyst Color Price Target Analyst Ratings
© 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.


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The future of solar energy may look bright, but it has a dark side
For many years, the idea of "open space" was a strange concept to me. I hadn't been west of the Mississippi until my early twenties. My youthful experiences with nature were mostly confined to small parks amongst the concrete jungles of New York. This changed when I first drove across the country for a new job in California. As I first experienced the American West's vast expanses of endless arid landscape I couldn't help but think—wow this is boring. Can't someone do something useful with all this land?
The Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") must be thinking the same thing I once did. The BLM is currently considering three solar energy projects that will cover 9,000 acres of desert in California. The proposed McCoy and Desert Harvest projects would be located in the Coachella Valley near Joshua Tree National Park and the Ocitillo project would be a few hours east of San Diego. This is in addition to the 7,000 acre Desert Sun solar project, also near Joshua Tree, which was approved in 2010 and recently began construction.
This spike in large scale solar energy projects is due, in part, to a push by state and national governments. California has led the way in renewable energy development by setting an ambitious goal that 33% of all retail energy sales be supplied by renewables by 2020. This plan was bolstered by Congress' Energy Policy Act of 2005, which provides tax incentives for renewable energy projects, and a 2010 order by the secretary of the Department of Interior, which attempts to cut some red tape by making clean energy a priority.
These initiatives, cheered by environmentalists, have cleared the path for these recently proposed solar farms. If approved, the four projects together would generate almost 1,500 megawatts of electricity, which would produce enough power to supply over 400,000 homes. However, with peak demands reaching 62,000 megawatts, these projects barely scratch the surface of California's energy needs.
Producing electricity has historically been a very dirty business. Coal emits 2,200 pounds of carbon dioxide for every megawatt of energy produced, 13 pounds of sulfur dioxide, and uses large amounts of water for cooling. This doesn't even include the environmental hazards that mining and waste disposal present. Natural gas is a cleaner alternative, with no waste disposal concerns and half the emissions of coal. However, gas extraction techniques, such as fracking, also pose significant environmental problems. Electricity accounts for 39% of all energy use in the country, making it the biggest target for a switch to clean technology.
The future of solar energy certainly seems bright. Photovoltaic systems, which convert radiation from the sun directly into electricity using solar panels, don't rely on the continuous extraction of resources. Solar panels emit almost no emissions, don't produce waste, and don't use water. As energy corporations see the costs of solar production dropping to a level comparable with coal, they have become much more willing to invest in large scale solar projects. Not only will companies turn a profit, but they will also benefit from the positive publicity associated with renewable energy development.
At first glance this seems like a win-win situation; corporations make money and California gets clean energy. However, the true cost of solar energy doesn't just include dollars and cents. The biggest cost of solar production is land—lots of it. The Nature Conservancy released a study in 2009 that investigated the "land-use intensity" of each method of electricity production. The study found that solar requires almost 30% more land to produce the same amount of electricity as coal. The Nature Conservancy applied their findings to estimates for increases in renewable production and concluded that a minimum of 175 million acres of land will be affected over the next twenty years.
Habitat destruction is the main concern. The desert ecosystem, although ideal for solar energy, is also extremely fragile. A complete recovery from land disturbances can take up to 3,000 years. Native plants struggle to survive changes to the soil, while invasive species thrive. The current proposed projects in California will also affect thousands of acres of habitat for threatened species such as the desert tortoise, flat-tailed horned lizard, burrowing owls, raptors, migratory birds, and other small mammals and lizards. Increased development could have devastating effects on these animals.
Although I may have once scoffed at such inconsequential losses, my first experience in Joshua Tree changed my perspective on the desert. As I looked out upon the vast "nothingness," I didn't see wasted land¬—I saw perfection. Each gnarled tree seemed to be placed in the sea of sandy soil with the greatest of precision. Every rock appeared to have fallen straight from heaven and balanced delicately upon each other by the world's greatest artists. Tiny flowers contributed just the right splash of color, while curious lizards added just a bit of humor.
However, it wasn't what the desert had that made it so appealing, it was what it didn't have—people. Growing up in a city, I never realized the unquantifiable benefit of open space. The western deserts offer something not many other places can; solitude. As Edward Abbey pointed out in Desert Solitaire, "We need a refuge even though we may never need to set foot in it. We need the possibility of escape as surely as we need hope."
The conundrum for environmentalists is that large scale renewable projects appear to be the only option for changing the status quo. Even though the prospect of energy sprawl across the desert is troubling, continuing to rely on traditional energy sources is simply untenable. Stopping climate change currently trumps virtually every other environmental issue. There won't be a desert left to protect if emissions continue at their current pace.
However, this solution falls prey to the same mistakes of the past. Replacing "big coal" with "big solar" may be an improvement, but it is still misses the point. Producing enormous amounts of electricity at a single location and transporting it to individual users that span thousands of miles is not an effective or environmentally sensitive method of energy distribution. Much like all of our consumption habits, we have to start thinking completely differently about energy.
Local small scale production on disturbed land has been vastly underutilized. The Department of Energy states that only 7% of the area currently being occupied by residences and cities is needed to produce all the electricity needed in the country. Solar panels could be placed on rooftops, highway signs, sides of buildings, or in parking lots. Innovative ideas, such as Chicago's solar skyscraper, could help transform the future of electricity production. Energy corporations have been reluctant to embrace on-site electricity production. Solar panels on your roof cuts into the industries profits and connecting many small producers into the grid can be costly.
Tackling electricity production with a whole new approach could bring about positive changes. Companies could seek out customers that would be willing to pay a flat monthly fee in exchange for a long term agreement that would allow the installation and maintenance of rooftop solar panels. Consumers wouldn't face the large upfront installation costs of solar and would get a smaller, more predictable bill. Companies would get free land to install solar panels on and could recover their additional connection costs through the monthly fees. Creating these "micro-grids" will also help production reflect the actual need of an area, cutting down on wasted resources.
A massive restructuring of the energy grid would be highly beneficial, but it is also highly unlikely. Until energy corporations are forced to change, big solar will be the wave of the future. Facing this next phase of energy development, environmental advocates should ensure that the BLM chooses the most low-impact sites for solar development and that companies adequately compensate for negative environmental impacts. This may not save our untouched deserts, but it may be the best we can do in the current political and economic climate.
The BLM has received over 200 applications for solar energy projects that would occupy over 1.5 million acres of public lands. Before issuing permits for construction, the BLM is seeking comments from the public on three proposed projects in California.
Learn more about the Desert Harvest solar project and leave a comment for the BLM by July 17th.
Learn more about the Ocitillo Sol solar project and leave a comment for the BLM by July 18th.
Learn more about the McCoy solar project and leave a comment for the BLM by August 23rd.
~Brian O'Neill


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Some people are suckers for cornrows and manicured toes, Fendi capri pants, and Parasucos*.
Meanwhile, I'm just over here finding joy in all things tabletop & kitchenware.....and barware...and cutlery.
*song lyrics will be maimed on this blog incessantly, get with it.
My dinnerware inventory is perfect and I love every. single. piece. Some of it is my mom's(that she inherited from our Aunt Fay) and the other pieces I got from my mother-in-law. Most of the plates and glasses are vintage, and did I forget to mention, gorgeous?! I've added my own style to the
1. Collections Take Time
Unless you plan to purchase dinner or bar ware as a set....don't pressure yourself into thinking that you have to get it all in one fell swoop. Buy what inspires you into action. If you like salad...be on the hunt for vintage tongs, bowls, and vessels for dressing. Ice cream lover...? Hunt different metal and glass cups that can be chilled in the freezer before serving! Buy what you'll use and have fun using what you buy!
2. Think Outside the Box
I know it's easy to go into a big box store and buy all of the pieces from their currently trendy collection...but it's also problematic. Dishes break, tastes change, and families grow. Leaving yourself room to expand + change direction is always the best way to go. Although a lot of my pieces are vintage, many of them are from the $.99 cents store and various small shops. Bet you can't tell which is which.....
3. Pick a Color Palette
The colors you choose before you start will keep things simple for you in the end. Stick with one light color + one dark color + one accent. You can even look at a pattern (if you must) and pull some options from there. Be mindful that a well dressed table is about layers, so a great collection has to be timeless. You don't want to have so many colors and patterns and noticeable trends on your linens and dinnerware that it's a struggle to make it all work. My go-to is always white + black + wood. I just play around with textures, shade, and tones from that point.
Honestly, you can do what you like.....you don't have to take my word for it.
If you do, you know, take my word for it....we'll discuss where, when, and how much to buy... in Part 2! While you wait....check out how I plan to get full use of my collection by throwing one dinner party a month.....for a WHOLE YEAR!!
::::::raps the lyrics to Next Episode by Dr. Dre and logs off:::::


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(or, please consider supporting me during the Clarion Write-a-Thon)
I'm late, and life has been extremely crazy over the past few weeks. Work has been intense, and I'm facing some serious situation changes over the next few months. I considered signing up for Write-a-Thon, then I forgot about it, then I remembered but thought there's too much crap going on, there's no way I can participate properly.
But then lots of my Clarion classmates started joining.
And I poked their author's profiles and get inspired. And I opened up my word document and read some of my Clarion diary from last year and realized I had made a promise to myself – that I wouldn't give writing up, no matter what. That I'd carve out the time for it despite everything. That I had to at least try to get my stories out there. Clarion changed my life utterly; it would be ridiculous for me not to even try to help them out.
So at the last minute, I joined the Clarion Write-a-Thon. My goal is to raise at least $250 for the Clarion foundation, which provides scholarships and funding for the program, so that each year, eighteen writers can go and develop their craft, get their butts kicked, learn from some of the best writers in the field, and develop lifelong friendships (cheesy yet true).
The thing about Clarion is: it works. Since graduating from the workshop, I have sold stories to Nightmare Magazine and Tor.com; an essay of mine appeared in the boundary-pushing magazine, Interfictions Online; I have received personalized rejections from magazines like Asimov's, Strange Horizons, and The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction; and most of all, I have found the will to admit to myself that writing is something I need to do.
Clan Clarion 2013, next to the big stone bear.
My goal is to write 25,000 words in the next four weeks. (Yes, I am two weeks behind.) That's a lot, but I believe it's doable, and when I set a goal, I always do my best to achieve it. That word count will go to two short stories, and the remainder will be applied to the Novel I Promised to Write This Year. Your contributions will really encourage me to keep at this. I write for myself, yes, but I also write for my incredible supporters through the years, especially my family and friends.
Some perks I am offering as part of this fundraising campaign:
- Anyone who donates at least $15 will receive a PDF of my poetry chapbook, Some Graspable Universe, which collects some of my poems from 2010 – 2013.
- Anyone who donates $25 will receive a handmade card in addition to the poetry chapbook. Once I receive your donation, I will email you requesting your mailing address (you'll receive it in September/October this year).
- Alternatively, with a donation of at least $25, I would be happy to read either a set of up to 10 poems or a short story (up to 8000 words), and offer personalized and detailed critique on it.
I don't receive anything but your name when you donate, so please do email me or poke me on Facebook, and I will send you your reward!
Thinking about donating? Here is the link to my writer's page. I'll be updating my wordcount at least weekly, so that you can see how I progress! You can choose to support me, or any of my wonderful teammates in the Rocketship Spatulas (or any of the other awesome Write-a-thon-ers, really).
Still not convinced? You can read my personal essay on the Clarion experience. It doesn't capture all of the magic, but hopefully it will convince you how much the experience meant to me, and how important it is that Clarion continues to be a shelter, a home, a place to grow and change and discover, for writers in subsequent years.
As the song I ganked my title from says: everybody is looking for something. The dreamers that attend Clarion can only travel so far with your help. Thank you!


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"Along the tops of the hills between Carno and Pontdolgoch in Montgomoryshire there are three lakes called Llyn Tarw, Llyn Mawr and Llyn Du which have traditionally been regarded as a haunt of the Tylwyth Teg ('Fair People'). Even today the lakes are off the beaten track and rarely does anyone pass them except the occasional shepherd or angler. But in September 1936 Mrs Edwards of Clogiau Farm passed by Llyn Tarw with her children and they heard, just as evening was closing in, the sweetest singing they had ever heard. They looked about them but could see nothing though the singing continued.
In response to this being reported in a local newspaper, Mr George Pollard, a London journalist, visited the spot and wrote in the News Chronicle for 28 September 1936 that "when we crossed the path leading to the end of the lake we were both surprised and enchanted by loud singing from under the ground and all around us". Other people in the locality have claimed to have heard the singing on occasions in the past and said that it came from beneath the rocks by the side of the lake. The journalist failed to solve the 'problem', but it was not considered a problem by those who believed in the Tylwyth Teg."


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Primeaux Jameson
Born May 8th, 2015
4:07 am
7 lbs 12 oz.
21 inches long
It's always a pleasure to work with a couple as sweet as Brittany and Moe. We first met for coffee just a few short weeks before her scheduled induction. As we chatted, it became apparent that they were very connected, prepared and that Moe would prove to be an incredible support to Brittany. Coupled with the support of their doula, they would walk into their first birth with so much grace and ease.
I firmly believe that a birthing womans surroundings plays an integral role in her birthing experience. So I stayed in contact with their doula most of the day, as to not disturb Brittany and to let her and her sweet husband focus on the task at hand. The plan for their birth was to have little to no interventions, to have immediate skin on skin contact, delayed cord clamping, and to have Moe catch his son. They picked out one of the best hospitals in Denver for the job. The staff always held their birth plan and needs high and handled them with respect. It was the kind of staff I believe every birthing woman deserves and should have. Brittany was supported not only in her birth plan, but for any unpredictable events that birth always seems to surprise us with.
Manual induction began around lunch time, and contractions came fast and forcefully. She was about 5 centimeters when I decided to make my way from my home in Colorado Springs, to the hospital in Denver where they chose to deliver. I arrived to a gorgeous couple, chatting and laughing with the birth team. Things stayed light for a couple of hours, and they danced and walked to help move that precious baby farther down. It was decided to start a little bit of pitocin to get things moving a bit more, and not long after things started really picking up.
The thing about pitocin is it progresses your labor a bit more quickly than your body might normally, causing it to feel more painful. Many times the mother will request something to help her get through them a little easier. There is never any shame in needing to add unexpected interventions to one's birth plan. Brittany and Moe took their birth moment by moment as it unfolded with so much strength. She wanted to be able to move and walk around, so she opted out of the epidural and went for less invasive forms of pain medication.
The doctors came in once she was complete, and started to have pushing sensations. Moe, being the wonderfully supportive husband that he is, decided that it was time to make clear their intentions and communicate that to the doctor. Doctors are trained a certain way, a way that puts them in the leader role in births, and most of the time that is exactly want the couple needs. However, this soon to be papa was going to make sure to protect the integrity of his and his beautiful wife's birth plan. He intended to catch their son, and he did just that.
It's a true blessing to be able to witness such love and connection between two people, in one of the most tender moments in their lives.
Birth Story of Primeaux- Denver Birth Photography
Primeaux Jameson


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'It is a long tournament, we have to be consistent'
Even though India start as firm favourites in the upcoming World Cup, they would have to play consistently well to go all the way in the tournament, feel former cricketers.
"The beauty of limited overs cricket is that one just cannot predict the winner. We stand the best chance to win the trophy if we can keep the momentum. We have to be consistent in what is a very long tournament," former India skipper Ajit Wadekar, who led the team to their first ever series victory in England and West Indies in 1971, said.
"Ours is a very well-balanced team. We have a good pace attack, good spinners, and most of our batsmen are in good nick. Besides, we have the home advantage. Injuries may play its part but it is a part of the game," he said.
Image: Members of the Indian cricket team
'If we start winning we should not get over-confident'
Wadekar, who was the coach of the Indian team that reached the World Cup semi-finals when the quadrennial-event was played in the sub-continent in 1996, said India should not become over-confident after registering a couple of wins as they did in the past.
"If we start winning we should not get over-confident as it has happened in the past. However, I feel this team is professional and has done well over a period of time.
"They are used to playing in pressure situations and have the ability to soak in the tension of playing at home in front of large crowds. We have won many series in India under Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the last couple of years," said Wadekar.
On the team composition, the veteran of 37 Test matches and 2113 runs, felt although India's batting line-up is strong, a left-arm spinner instead of an additional off-spinner would have brought a much needed variety in the bowling attack.
Image: Members of the Indian cricket team
'If Sehwag gets going, then nothing like it'
"We would need a combined effort from our batsmen. If (Virender) Sehwag gets going, nothing like it. Same applies for (Gautam) Gambhir. Of course, Sachin (Tendulkar) is playing his last World Cup and he would be all geared up. (M S) Dhoni and (Suresh) Raina are capable of playing match-winning innings, while Yusuf Pathan is bubbling with confidence after the knocks he played against South Africa and New Zealand. He can come to the rescue if the top-order fails," said Wadekar.
"Zaheer (Khan) will spearhead the bowling and Sreesanth will bring in the aggression. Then there is Harbhajan. But instead of two specialist off-spinners they could have brought in a left-arm spinner by opting (Pragyan) Ojha for R Ashwin. Ashwin is a good bowler but there are too many off-spinners in the side. Sehwag, Raina, and Yusuf can all bowl off-spin. But overall this is a very balanced side," he added.
Image: Virender Sehwag
'This team is better-balanced than the 1983 side'
Wadekar said compared to the squad that won the 1983 World Cup, the present bunch looked a better side.
"This team looks much better balanced and well-experienced side. In 1983, we were not quite confident. It was that innings by Kapil Dev (175 not out against Zimbabwe at Turnbridge Wells) which turned the things around for us and we went all the way," he added.
Recalling the 1996 campaign at home, Wadekar said though India had planned well, a missed catch of Aravinda De Silva during the semi-final match against Sri Lanka cost the team the match.
"We had planned it properly. Sri Lanka were always good chasers, reputed for chasing big totals. So it was decided we will not allow them to chase. We started on the right note. Jayasuriya was out very quickly. But dropping Aravinda off a sitter early in his innings was a big mistake. They went on to make a good score, but not very good.
"Sachin gave us a good start but once he was out and Jayasuriya turned a coupled of balls, everyone panicked and the team collapsed. We were bubbling with confidence after beating
Pakistan (in the quarter-finals) but that drop catch proved costly."
Wadekar felt while Australia and South Africa could be the other prime contenders in the World Cup other than India, Pakistan could be the dark horse.
Image: Gary Kirsten and Mahendra Singh Dhoni
'The tournament is long and I have my doubts about India'
Meanwhile, former Test cricketer Lalchand Rajput, said though India were the favourites, their real test would start from the quarter-finals.
"Everyone is calling India the favourites. The expectations are too high. Although there should be no difficulty in the league matches, the real test will begin from the quarter-final stage since every team that would qualify in the last-eight stage will stand a chance of winning the tournament," he said.
Former Test cricketer Bapu Nadkarni also felt that despite India being the favourites, maintaining the consistency could be a problem for the team.
"We are going as favourites and I'm not worried about the combination or capability of the team but about the consistency.
"We have proved that we are capable of beating the best teams but the tournament is long and I have my doubts," he added.
Image: Indian players celebrate


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74. Erin Odessa - November 11, 2013/
The Music Edition
In this episode, Matt and Susan talk about music. From the genres of music they grew up listening to, to their first live concert. Music has definitely been a huge part of all our lives.
Erin Odessa
We are joined in the Outback Studios by local musician, music teacher, and ukulele advocate Erin Odessa.
Erin talks with Matt and Susan about her early start with music, and about her passion for creating music. Erin, an accomplished song writer and performer is also known to scores of children and families in Stockton for The Afternaps, a childrens music program that has been performing for several years. The Afternaps perform every Tuesday at 5 PM inside Yogurt My Way on the Miracle Mile.
Erin is available for ukulele, guitar, vocal, and group percussion lessons. She can be reached by e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Erin is also the hostess of Open Mic at Whirlow's on the Miracle Mile, every Wednesday night. At a recent Open Mic night, Matt spoke with two performers.
Erin and Daniel Page perform two new original songs, "Won't Be Soon", and "Life Goes On".
Listen to more music by Erin Odessa at soundcloud.com/erinodessa. She can also be found at facebook.com/erin.odessa.


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The newest Club Penguin Collectible Pin is the Camera Pin and you'll find it hidden at the Dock. Look in the lower-right corner just underneath the pine tree. Say cheese!
Club Penguin Camera Pin at Dock
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GT Line All-In-One Technicians Tool Case AI1.KT01
GT Line All In One KT01 Tool Trolley – The latest innovative technicians tool trolley made in Italy. The All In One is the latest innovative storage solution from GT Line, combining their expertise in constructing durable tool cases and chests with a versatile new drawer design that allows professionals to carry a variety of hand tools, power tools and spare components in one unit. Ideal for technicians involved in maintenance, repair and overhaul this tool trolley has a sturdy injection molded body made from copolymer polypropylene, which makes it resistant to shocks, rough usage and harsh weather conditions. For easy transportation the tool chest has two fold-down side handles, four robust self-oiling wheels and a telescopic handle which extends up to 990mm.
The upper compartment has its own lid and features a removable tray for storing hand tools. Underneath the tray is a recessed area which contains 5 small parts boxes with lids that can be taken out as needed. Removing the small parts boxes provides space to store a laptop within this area. The lower compartment is protected with a collapsible front door which can be opened up to 167 degrees and contains four drawers of varying heights and configurations. The top 30mm high drawer has dual colour pre-cubed foam which allows individual cubes to be removed to accommodate tools such as pliers and screwdrivers. The pre-cubed layers are grey while the red foam base layer makes it easy to identify missing tools. The next drawer is 60mm and also contains grey pre-cubed foam and a red foam base layer. A second 60mm high drawer is supplied with 4 large and 3 small bin boxes for small components and accessories.
The large bin boxers have dividers which can be removed if more space is needed in a particular compartment. The final drawer is 95mm high and is supplied empty for your larger tools or components. Each of the drawers are completely accessible when open but also feature a self-restraint stop to prevent them from accidentally falling out of the unit. Other useful feature on the GT Line All In One KT01 Tool Trolley include a central key lock which secures all compartments with a single key, removable ID label, plus further labels on each drawer for content identification. A metal reinforced padlock eye plus further padlockable points allow the unit to be further secured if required using your own padlocks.
Dimensions: 455mm High x 581mm Wide x 381mm Deep (Top Section 59mm High, Bottom Section 396mm High)
Weight: 14.0kg Tools Shown Not Included
View the Product Video for more details about the All In One Tool Trolley and the optional accessories in the range.
If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase you can return the item(s) to us within 30 days from receipt and we will issue a full refund. This excludes the delivery charge. To view our complete returns policy please Click Here.
Our deliveries are sent out by Royal Mail or courier depending on the delivery type chosen and most will require a signature especially those on the next working day services. For this reason someone will normally need to be at the delivery address to accept the parcel. We can also deliver your order to an alternative address if you provide this as your delivery address when ordering.
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The State Worker
Cal Fire and disciplined Academy employees settle dispute
Three former Cal Fire Academy managers named in a scandal that rocked the department have settled their disciplinary appeal cases. Meanwhile, a judge rejected a request by three other former employees to throw out the actions taken against them.
Salvador Bruno, Cole Periera and Michael Roe agreed to terms late Wednesday rather than go into a formal hearing before a State Personnel Board administrative law judge. The specifics have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Earlier this year, Cal Fire demoted all three men from fire captain to fire apparatus operator for allegedly drinking while on duty at cadet graduation celebrations and allowing subordinates to do the same.
The allegations against them surfaced during a California Highway Patrol investigation that found that Ione Academy employees had consumed alcohol on state time, stored and shared inappropriate photos and sex website links on state cellphones, assaulted women, misused state vehicles, disobeyed orders and made false statements to investigators. In one instance, a manager admitted to using a state vehicle to meet prostitutes in Sacramento.
In a related case, three other former Academy employees lost their requests for a Personnel Board judge to revoke demotion notices they received.
Justin Chaplin, James Michels and Frank Schonig lost their temporary fire captain jobs at the academy for receiving questions and answers for promotional interview questions. They also received a year-long 5 percent pay cut when they returned to their previous fire apparatus engineer rank in February. The disciplinary notices' language, however, specifically allowed them to promote earlier.
Shortly after their February demotions, Chaplin and Schonig promoted back to fire captain positions elsewhere in the state, although their 5 percent pay cut remained in place. Michels did not promote.
After The Sacramento Bee broke the story, Cal Fire Director Ken Pimlott said the discipline against the three men was insufficient. The department then withdrew its disciplinary actions, paid all three men back wages and benefits, and then demoted them to firefighter II, one rank below fire apparatus engineer.
In their request to dismiss their second demotions, Chaplin, Schonig and Michels said they had been illegally punished twice for a single offense. They also said that no new facts merited the new, harsher demotions and that Cal Fire was responding to public pressure generated by negative media coverage.
Last week, Judge Douglas Purdy sided with Cal Fire. The department had correctly withdrawn the first discipline before administering the second, Purdy ruled, and there were new details in the new disciplinary record that weren't in the first.
As for media pressure, Purdy wrote:
(Chaplin, Michels and Schonig) cite no statute, regulation, case law, or other authority that would prohibit (Cal Fire) from taking negative publicity into account when assessing penalties. To the contrary, when determining the appropriate penalty, the SPB often considers whether an employee's conduct, if known to the public, could discredit the appointing power.
Barring a settlement, the consolidated cases will go to a full hearing late this year or in early 2016.
Jon Ortiz: 916-321-1043, @TheStateWorker


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wood Farm Tables
A place to display treasured objects or gather for a special meal, tables — including farm tables — provide the foundation for establishing a sense of proportion and purpose, space and style. From formal dining tables to warm and rustic farm tables, Dering Hall has an unparalleled selection of these essential pieces
Our meticulously curated table collection includes custom, handmade, unique, vintage, antique, rare and one-of-a-kind designs. Whether you prefer understated, modern, classic, retro or decorative styling, you will experience a wonderful selection of functional and decorative tables here. We invite you to browse the farm tables that have been carefully chosen for your consideration and inspiration.
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Lymphangioma(redirected from Cystic hygroma)
Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Medical.
Related to Cystic hygroma: Branchial cyst
An abnormal mass of lymphatic vessels.
a tumor of the lymphatic vessels.
Most lymphangiomas represent defects of development. They may be localized in any part of the body and its organs and tissues, but they are found most often in the neck, skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, or retroperitoneal space (less frequently, in the liver, spleen, or kidneys). They appear as soft swellings of various dimensions in the skin or subcutaneous tissue and seem to disappear when pressed. Lymphangiomas grow slowly. They become inflamed readily. Treatment is surgical.


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I've been a big fan of the High School Tributes series and my friends in Canada have created another cool album. If you thought the last two Christine Sixteen KISS tributes were good (and they were!), then this Metallica tribute will be awesome!
High School Tributes has pressed only 600 copies of the new CD so I would get it quick before it sells out. Trust me, it will sell fast! Click here for the order page.


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Join the Board!
The VIPIRG coordinating collective (known as the "coord," to rhyme with "board") oversees the organization, working with staff to ensure that things are running smoothly and that VIPIRG is effective. The coord has the same responsibilities as a Board of Directors, including management of funds, supervision of staff, and long-term planning.
The coord is elected every year by students and community members at an Annual General Meeting. There are eleven seats on the coord, with eight seats reserved for UVic students and up to three seats for community members. The current coord has been accepted by consensus and will serve until the next AGM which takes place every spring.
To read current board member bios, click here!
Applications are now open, and close on Tuesday, March 19 2019 at midnight. Elections take place on Thursday, March 21 2019 at 6pm in the SUB Upper Lounge.
More information about the board can be found here. Please read before submitting an application.


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"Great, caring teachers that have a holistic approach to teaching, not just academics, but also morals and faith. We also love the small class sizes, giving our sons more attention and the family atmosphere."
Maria Pearl
"St. John School is small on the outside and overflowing with the strong curriculum, variety of activities, and versatility of a big school. The rich environment of a challenging curriculum combined with God at the center creates a beautiful, safe and loving place to send your child."
Julie Fuller
"Our family appreciates the close knit environment of the school. All teachers and staff are available and approachable. Our child wakes up each day looking forward to attending school and this is a great comfort as a parent to know they feel safe"
Cheryllee Sargent
"At St. John School we get to learn more than just regular school work. We learn about God and Jesus. I like St. John's because everyone here comes together like a family to pray and learn and play."
Rebecca H.
"St. John School is the school for me for many reasons. I like the fact that there are no bullies. I have been here for only one year and I already love it here. If I could tell other kids what is great about my school, I'd tell them that St. John School is the best school you'll find."
Kal C.
"I love St. John School because our teachers are so nice and teach us a lot. I like going to church because Father Linh is funny and he teaches us about God. Mrs. Kelly (lunch room manager) makes us great lunches and loves us. I also love my friends here!"
Alyssa C.
"I think St. John's is the best school ever. The teachers and students are nice. The principal is nice too. I love that we have religion class here. I also love that St. John's has a basketball team."
Whitney G.
"St. John School is a great place to love God and to learn many good things. I love St. John so much because everyone is so loving, friendly and helpful."
Will B.
"I am so thankful that I am able to attend St. John School. It is a privilege to go to school with such great people and to be taught by such awesome teachers! I love all of my friends and don't know what I would do without them! I am truly thankful!"
Sara C.
"When I came here from Atlanta, Georgia, I had to adjust from public school to private. Getting used to the rules, uniforms and people was incredibly easy. St. John's is the best because adjusting to everything was a breeze. The teachers and students are nice and sincere. The school means the world to me."
Amanda K.
"I like all the teachers because they are so funny! All the students are really nice. They will always lend a hand if someone is in trouble. Even though St. John School is small, it has a big heart. There are no bullies or mean kids here."
Jessica R.
"Some of the great things about St. John School are that we are a no bully zone, the great special classes (art, PE, music and computer), awesome sports, Church every Tuesday and of course great teachers."
Daniel T.


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Casa Asia
Visit official website: www.casaasia.eu
Related projects
ASEF Support to the ASEM Cultural Festival (#ASEMfest) 2019
December 2019
The ASEM Cultural Festival (#ASEMfest) revives a tradition of cultural programming alongside high-level meetings of Asian and European leaders. ASEF, as the only permanent institution of the Asia-Europe...
Asia-Europe News Media Connectivity: Collaborating on Digital Journalism
4-7 October 2016
Journalists from Asia and Europe attended 2 intensive ASEF Journalists' Workshops, in Brussels, Belgium, January 2016 and in Guangzhou, China, May 2016. These workshops focused on the themes of connectivity...
Social determinants of migrants' health across Asia and Europe
08-09 March 2012
The ASEF Public Health Network will organise a series of research exchange workshops from 2012 to 2013. The first workshop in 2012 was on 8 – 9 March in Barcelona, co-organised with Casa Asia. This...
Health and Migration: perspectives from Asia and Europe
07 March 2012
Several social determinants create regional and cross-border impact on migrants' health in Asia and Europe.This Public Talk was an interactive forum to share and know more about such perceptions. Asian...
culture360.org Presented At The Arco International Art Fair In Madrid
16 Feb 11 - 19 Feb 11
The ARCO International Contemporary Art Fair in Madrid included a series of Expert Forums on different topics. ASEF's Cultural Exchange Director Ms Sabina Santarossa and culture360.org's Project Coordinator...
2nd Asia-Europe Young Urban Leaders Dialogue (AEYULD): Transforming Lifestyles, Designing Sustainable Cities
26 Jul 10 - 28 Jul 10
The AEYULD was implemented in 2008 in Madrid, Spain, as a platform for exchanging ideas and good practices to develop new ways of managing cities. It aimed to create a sustainable bi-regional network...
8th ASEF Journalists' Colloquium: Youth, Media and Interfaith: Sharing Knowledge, Building Trust
05 Apr 10 - 06 Apr 10
Held in conjunction with the 6th ASEM Interfaith Dialogue held in Spain, the 8th ASEF Journalists' Colloquium gathered young journalists and young religious leaders from Asia and Europe to re-examine...
1st ASEFUAN Dialogue On Climate Change
24 Nov 09 - 27 Nov 09
The ASEFUAN Dialogue was attended by 70 young experts representing the 43 ASEM process members states. Participants were given the opportunity to exchange views and ideas in a series of discussions,...
16th Talks On The Hill: The Common Denominator: Are There Universal Values For Interfaith Dialogue?
07 Nov 09 - 09 Nov 09
With the global movement of people and information, multi-cultural societies across Asia and Europe are facing threats to social cohesion from the rise of exclusivist or even violent extremist ideologies....
11th Asia-Europe Young Leaders Symposium: 1st Asia-Europe Young Urban Leaders Dialogue
10 Nov 08 - 16 Nov 08
The 1st Asia-Europe Young Urban Leaders Dialogue brought together 44 motivated young urban leaders and forward-looking professionals from ASEM member countries. The main outcomes of the Dialogue were...
ASEM Education Hub (AEH) Thematic Network On Human Security: Annual Conference And Annual Partners' Co-Ordination Meeting
15 Oct 08 - 17 Oct 08
The AEH Thematic Network On Human Security organised its Annual Conference on the theme "Global Warming And Climate Change," to introduce Asian and European perspectives on pressing issues related to...
02 Sep 07 - 07 Sep 07
14th ASEF University: Commemorative Edition
31 Aug 07 - 07 Sep 07
For this instalment of the ASEF University, the ASEF organised a week-long series of projects in celebration of the ASEF's 10th anniversary. Among the event highlights was the academic conference "Achieving...
1st Asia-Europe Youth Interfaith Dialogue
19 Nov 06 - 23 Nov 06
This youth dialogue involved 44 youth representatives from religious organisations and networks in 26 ASEM countries, as well as experts in inter-religious dialogue. Participants exchanged views and...
Regional Integration Series: 1st Connecting Civil Societies Of Asia And Europe
16 Jun 04 - 18 Jun 04
"Civil society organisations can make a unique contribution to the political, socio-economic and cultural development of Asia and Europe." - Bertrand Fort, conference co-ordinator. This two-day meeting...
7th ASEF University (AU7)
10 Nov 02 - 24 Nov 02
The seventh instalment of the ASEF University summer school programme was held on the theme "Regionalism In Asia And Europe And Their Significance For Asia-Europe Relations." A public lecture was incorporated...


text: Do you have people in your life that you wish to make their life better? You can do that. Just by moving with God, you can impact others. Can you imagine how much different your loved ones could be if they were open to receiving Jesus? This message will give you clear and concise steps on how to accomplish this and will show you how to make the move.


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The new Ciate Pretty Stix really live up to the pretty in their name. I love the attention to detail with some cute little lips on the packaging and the colour edit is excellent in a something-for-everyone kind of way. Something is nagging at the back of my mind though.. I know I have swatched a product with a very, very similar formula and finish and I just cannot remember what it is. The thing that flagged up that I'd been here before is that they're super melty – in an only-just-holding-together way – so they can get messy and the brighter colours need careful application and a steady hand. Don't push onto your lip too hard either; they really are that soft. BUT, the good pay-off for this kind of texture is impeccible glide and a very nourishing, soft feeling, sheeny lipstick. They're supposed to be melty to a certain degree, but on a warm day I'd be careful where I kept them and certainly not near any sun.
Kicking off with the reds: Chick Flick, First Love and Me Me Me.
Here they are in the same order in the swatch.
There are two purple based shades, Soho and Heartbreaker.
And the same order in the swatch.
There are two pale shades with a peachy tone, Innocent and Sweetheart (in the swatch.. they're the other way round in the picture).
And finally, three nude tone shades, Rom Com, BFF and Vintage Blush.
In the swatch, it's Rom Com, Vintage Blush and BFF.
These are truly lovely – given the messy caveat – but it's driving me crazy that I can't remember the similar products!
The only thing I'm not that crazy about is the Scrub Stix.. you need to press your lips together in a rubbing motion and then wipe off after a minute. Nothing happened! So this one is completely a pass based on my experience. You can find the Ciate Pretty Stix for £16 at ASOS HERE.
*all products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
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7 comments
Oh Jane, Heartbreaker is just my shade! I was thinking, could the similar lippie have either been the Christian Dior Addict, Chantecaille Hydra Chic, or Burberry Kisses Sheer?
They remind me of something I had a couple of years ago from bare minerals- can't remember what they were called!
I got Innocent in a bundle from Ciaté, the Fun bundle, with the eponymous palette, and I love it! Perfect summer colour and very moisturising!
Isn't that similar to the new Chanel sticks that you wind out just as much as you need, because they're so soft.
Nothing for me, but GREAT looking shades and packaging.
oh my! These look gorgeous, the packaging is so cute and the colours look so nice! They remind me of a Body Shop lip colour I had once but I can't remember the exact name of the product! Love your photography too 🙂
I want to purchase based on packaging alone!!!


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Posts tagged "fatalities"
The Dangers of Big Oil
Probably the biggest reason I get annoyed over the demonization of oil companies is that an incredibly diverse range of men and women are all being painted with a broad brush. "Oh, but we aren't talking about them", the demonizer will say. "We are talking about the CEOs and fat cats." But you see, you are talking about them. Big Oil is not the CEOs and fat cats. They own a very small percentage of the oil company stocks, and they make up maybe 0.1% of the workforce of Big Oil. No, when you direct your ire at Big Oil, you are directing your ire at pension funds, retirement accounts, and a lot of hard-working oil company employees who deserve… Continue»
Two Dead in Pipeline Explosion
This is one case in which I was a bit slow to process the information. I heard about this pipeline explosion not too long after it happened, but the seriousness was not immediately apparent to me: Explosion At A US-Canadian Pipeline Sends Oil Prices To $95.17 A Barrel It's amazing to me how all the stories seem to treat the two deaths as an afterthought: New York, NY (AHN) – Oil prices soared up on Thursday by $4 following an explosion at a pipeline interrupting the supply of the crude oil to the U.S. Midwest from Canada. The fire that broke out late Wednesday cut Canadian oil supplies through the pipelines. Canada provides the U.S. with at least 15 percent… Continue»