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January 1, 2011
Art word of the Year (2011) – Sparkle!
Now for my Art Word of the Year
I've heard increasingly about people who are choosing to select a "word of the year" rather than make New Year's Resolutions. I've recently begun doing this, too, over the past couple of years, and I'm doing it again, this year. But in addition to choosing a 'regular" word of the year, I've also decided to choose an Art Word of the Year.
I'm not even sure what it means to choose an Art Word of the Year. To me, it is both an artistic theme as well as a personal ambition. Either way, it may be too ambitious, considering I hardly have time to make art or post anymore.
But I like this word, I want to use it in my art – and I think I want to use it in my life, as well.
The word is:
I have lately been very taken by all things Sparkly. Shiny rocks and gemstones (real or fake, natural or polished), fake stick-on sparkly things, bead-type sparkles and so-called scrapbook "jewels', sparkly powders for use on polymer clay, embossing sprinkles, glitter and glitter glue. ALL THINGS SPARKLY I must have!
Sadly, I've not really used any of them, yet, although I did use some incredibly fabulous gold-leaf type paper when I created a Christmas gift for someone.
I like the idea of having a Sparkly Life! It sounds very S.A.R.K.-ian — and probably is.
I belive that if I make more Sparkly things, then maybe my own life will be more Sparkly too.
"Sparkly is as Sparkly does!"
What I hope for is Sparks of ideas, happiness, and creativity that is electric and energizing and successful, and maybe also starting (eventually) back to work on this blog – which will also by definition mean making more Sparkly Art!
Cheers to 2011!!
And get your Sparkle On!
© 2011, amateur-in-art
July 9, 2010
Fascinated by Scrap Paper
Oh yes, I know I know, it has been months and months since I posted. I haven't been idle – just no time to post.
But I caught myself staring once again at some scrap paper that I have made, and thought I would share it here, along with a couple of other items from my miscellaneous pile.
First, the scrap paper. I had read somewhere, I think online (and my apologies for not keeping better track of where I get my suggestions from) to simply use a scrap of paper – preferably something fairly heavy duty like watercolor paper – and use it as a sort of canvas to be used when you end up with extra paint on your brush, or when you are watering down and cleaning up your brushes. At first, I thought, oh, no biggie. But now that I have been using it for a few weeks or months, I'm starting to really like the way it looks. I believe the original source also suggested this method as an excellent way to create deeply textured, multi-layered backgrounds for projects. I'm not done with it yet, but I can see how it can be used that way.
It's really not that visible here, but I have also used several different types of acrylic mediums on this – "Opaque White Flakes" (visible within the turquoise at left); "Lava Gel" (the stuff that looks like pepper on the lower right); and probably one or two others. Don't think I'm a serious artiste, though, just because I can say "acrylic medium" – I'm the artistic equivalent of a child playing with flour in the kitchen. I may know what flour is, and may even know it goes in a cake, but what to do with it, or how to get it from "flour" to "cake" – I haven't the foggiest.
That being said, I do like how this piece of scrap paper is shaping up. None of it has been deliberate or intentional – just totally random, most often, as I am cleaning up or changing colors.
Anyhow. I thought I'd also share a couple of scrap papery items that I, on a whim, stamped – and love the result! When saving these images on my computer for posting, I had to call them something, so I called them "Joy Blurts" – and I kind of like the ring of that. Here's what they look like:
And here's similar scraps, before stamping.
Wow – these look even cooler after scanning – better even than in real life! These are super simple. Just take 2 or 3 crayons, scribble on paper until paper is full of color – no white showing through. Take watercolors of a similar or contrasting color and wash over the crayon scribbles (visible as specks on the yellow sections above). Voila! You are done!
To stamp, I used black pigment ink and heated with a heat gun to set. That had an interesting effect as well, as it seemed to get rid of the waxiness from the crayons on the paper, but left colors and everything else unchanged.
The above scraps were originally scribbles on a much larger piece of paper – it was cut up into smaller squares as part of an exercise.
July 13, 2009
Soul Journal – Day 22 – Self portrait
Today's assignment was to write a "today I feel" prompt, then go to work with finger painting! (latex glove recommended!)
I used gray gesso to start on top of my writing and it really blocked things out too much, even when I mixed it with some white to lighten it. The pictures aren't worth posting here. Then I put on the background, using 3 colors – green, blue, and pink. I just squirted the colors right onto the page and then smeared around with my fingers. I was hoping they would not blend so easily so I could have some pretty solid bands of straight color, but it did not work out that way.
Then it was time for my "self portrait". I cannot draw or do anything like that, so I went with the basic stick figure. In the end, I decided that was fine because stick figure is equally childlike as finger painting, so I decided it was a good match. The stick figure has a balloon in her hand although it looks like something otherwise unidentifiable. I also filled her out a little bit, giving some substance to her body, to help show that she was a grown woman, and not a child. Because it was finger painting and kids often include their pets, I added a cat on the bottom left, but he looks kinda funny. (love the fluffy tail, though!)
Then Sarah told us to add personal symbols or things that were important to us. I definitely wanted to add a cardinal, and I think he didn't turn out too bad, considering he was finger painted. I also added a book (ha ha – the black thing that looks like a sad butterfly). At this point, I still had some black paint to use up, so I did "fingertip dots" around the edges of the pages – and I like the way that part turned out.
I'm not much for self-portraits, because I can't draw other people, let alone myself, but I did like the finger painting aspect of this, and I esp. like my cardinal. I think this would make a great photocopy page, to reuse in the future.
I believe we're almost coming to the end of the Soul Journal Journey, at least, the initial one with Sarah. I had no idea it would take me this long, but I have really enjoyed the trip and the things I have learned about myself, and about art and art making, along the way. I really liked following along in Sarah's blog, Caspiana.
© amateur-in-art, 2009
June 30, 2009
Soul Journal – Day 21 plus – Secret Superhero
On Day 21, Sarah gave us two options. A scribble misfit character or a "secret superhero." I really enjoyed doing the misfit exercise, so I thought I'd try my hand at the secret superhero, too. I have to say that artistically, I'm much more disappointed with this outcome than I was with the misfit. My scribble character turned out kind of weird, and the end result is "only OK" – but hey, that's alright. I still like the exercise, and there are parts of my end result that I like.
Once again, I started with a scribble on the right hand page, then played with the scribbles in my mind until I started to see a character. I saw a small head, what looked like a fist in the air, and some flowing capes. In the end, after I traced it and gave it firmer edges, it ended up looking kind of like a grasshopper or insect head, on sort of a fish-like body, with a cape.
It is a weird scribble-character. But I knew from the very beginning, though, that I wanted my "secret super hero" to be my Right Brain. I've been reading some lately about left/right brain stuff, and realize I am way way WAY too left-brained. Left brain is logic, order, linear, and yes/no. Right brain is creative, carefree, and amorphous.
Given their characteristics, then, I think these two pages turned out about right. I really like my brick building on the left. And I like its simplicity. I did this probably a week or so ago, and am just now getting around to posting – I had forgotten that I wrote on the door "No solicitors or new ideas!" That made me laugh. I even put a little lock on the door! I made the address 123 because anything else would be too creative for my left brain and it would want that logical sequence.
Although I'd prefer to have a different-looking character for my right brain superhero, I like the overall feel of these two pages, and I think the free form, color, and just general weirdness of my right brain character does a pretty good job of summing up what the right brain "looks like" in a metaphorical sense. I really enjoyed this scribble prompt – but have to admit I like my "misfit" results better than my superhero. But a good time had by all, nevertheless. Both really kind of helped "stretch" me – and that's a good thing!
P.S. I realized just now as I am posting that Sarah's original prompt was for a "sad superhero" instead of "secret superhero." Oh well. I like having a secret superhero. It works for me!
© amateur-in-art, 2009
June 13, 2009
Create your own stamp from 3-D objects
I came across this technique in the book, Altered Book Collage by Barbara Matthiessen. She calls it "monoprint background" – which of course, it is – but I think of it more as a stamp. It is an easy and simple way to get some really cool looks. I think of it as sort of "negative stamping" – where the item or object is 'blank" and the background has all the ink or color.
Get a block of fairly thick foam. I found a garden kneepad thingy at Target for $1 and it worked just fine!
Lay out the 3 dimensional objects you wish to use to create your stamp and put them on a sturdy surface.
Heat the foam using your heat gun.
**CAUTION: As always, use care and precautions when using the heat gun, do not get it too close to the foam, yourself, or flammable objects, and to be on the safe side (because I don't know what kind of chemicals might be released when the foam is heated) – I would advise having good ventilation. Mathiessen also gives no caution about fumes, but foam is synthetic so who knows what kind of chemicals might be present. Always be safe, whatever you do! If you attempt this procedure, you do so at your own risk.
When the foam is hot, press it down on top of your objects. Remove. Let foam cool.
Voila! You now have a stamp that you can use with ink, paint, or what-have-you to make a really cool impression! Better still, when you are finished, you can heat the foam again to "erase" the initial impression and reuse the foam to create a different stamp using different objects.
Lessons learned:
It is best to have all objects be the same approximate thickness.
Very thick objects may be difficult to remove from foam when you reheat to "erase" it. For instance, I was able to "erase" the keys in the foam – but after two tries, my locks still have not totally "disappeared."
© amateur-in-art, 2009


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Home Improvements - You Win Some, You Lose Some
After installing blinds in the living room, I lost the free form hanging wall (aka window grills) for my various artworks. That was a lot of space that was surrendered and there were many pieces of work which are now missing a display spot.
I don't know yet what I am going to do with the other pieces that no longer have a home. Should I create a salon wall, if so, where? Or should I put them into the store room and have the discipline to rotate them on a quarterly basis?
I like home improvement projects. I like the fact that every step makes me love my home even more.
Labels: art, choices, home improvements, treasure

subset: commoncrawl


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Palma Tassel
Palma Tassel
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Tassel Length: 9"
Braid Length: 12"
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What does a transformed life actually look like?
In his follow-up to the critically acclaimed My Imaginary Jesus, Matt Mikalatos tackles this question in an entertaining and thought-provoking way—with MONSTERS!!! While Christians claim to experience Christ's resurrection power, we sometimes act like werewolves who can't control our base desires. Or zombies, experiencing a resurrection that is 90 percent shambling death and 10 percent life. Or vampires, satiating ourselves at the expense of others. But through it all we long to stop being monsters and become truly human—the way Christ intended. We just can't seem to figure out how.
Night of the Living Dead Christian is the story of Luther, a werewolf on the run, whose inner beast has driven him dangerously close to losing everything that matters. Desperate to conquer his dark side, Luther joins forces with Matt to find someone who can help. Yet their time is running out. A powerful and mysterious man is on their trail, determined to kill the wolf at all costs . . .
By turns hilarious and heartbreaking, Night of the Living Dead Christian is a spiritual allegory that boldly explores the monstrous underpinnings of our nature and tackles head-on the question of how we can ever hope to become truly transformed.


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I am happy to announce that the beta team has been testing the new functionality of MLO-Cloud: "Task by Email".
Here is how it will work:
1. You assign a secret email address to your file on MLO-Cloud in the web interface.
2. When you send email to this address it is automatically moved to <Inbox> folder in your Cloud file. And the next time you sync with the Cloud you will see this task in your MyLifeOrganized client. The email subject will be assigned to the task title and the plain text part of the email body will be placed to the task notes.
To protect from possible spam you can assign the addresses which are allowed to send tasks to your Cloud account. You can also change your secret email at any time.
During this week the beta team has found a few problems if using some of email clients which have been already fixed and the service is working normally. The planned release date is January-February since we need to change the web interface a little.
In the future we plan to extend the Task by Email functionality. For example you will be able to set some task properties in the email or assign specific folder or project where this task should be placed in your Cloud file.
Let me also note that the auto-sync is a priority task on our list. This function is being tested on MLO-Android by the beta team. After that the auto-sync feature will be implemented on the major MyLifeOrganized clients. And yes, we understand that with introducing of the auto-sync the new Task by Email feature will be even more useful.
Tell us how you think we can improve the Task by Email functionality?
MyLifeOrganized Architect.
MLO-Cloud team


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SALEM, Ore. — Gov. John Kitzhaber, long regarded as a wily survivor of Oregon politics, resigned Friday amid a spiraling crisis that included a criminal investigation of the role that his fiancée played in his administration and crumbling support from his Democratic Party colleagues.
It was a steep and rapid fall for Mr. Kitzhaber, 67, a former emergency room doctor who won an unprecedented fourth term as governor in November. His resignation means that Kate Brown, the Oregon secretary of state and a fellow Democrat, will become governor, in accordance with the succession plan in the state Constitution.
Even during the recent election, Mr. Kitzhaber had been plagued by questions about his fiancée, Cylvia Hayes, with whom he lives in the governor's mansion, and whether she had violated ethics rules or criminal laws in advising him about clean energy issues while serving as a consultant on the topic. Before November's election and after, he repeatedly denied any wrongdoing by Ms. Hayes, 47, or his office, and pledged cooperation in the various inquiries, including one initiated this month by the state's attorney general, Ellen Rosenblum, also a Democrat, which could result in criminal charges.
But in the last few days, some senior Democrats in the heavily Democratic state abandoned him and called for his resignation, piling on with some Republicans, who had criticized him as an ineffective leader even before the scandals. Ms. Brown, 54, the secretary of state, was among those who distanced herself, releasing a statement on Thursday describing what she said was a "bizarre" meeting she had had with Mr. Kitzhaber — saying that he had asked her to rush back to Oregon from a conference in Washington, D.C., this week to speak privately with him. But once in the meeting, Ms. Brown said, she found him confused or uncertain about why she had come.
"This is clearly a bizarre and unprecedented situation," Ms. Brown said in her statement.
Mr. Kitzhaber, other Democrats said privately, had been close to resigning twice in the last few days before changing his mind. On Friday, he came to a final decision, avoiding the thick scrum of reporters and camera crews that had descended on the state capital and releasing an announcement that he would relinquish power on Wednesday.
"I am confident that I have not broken any laws nor taken any actions that were dishonest or dishonorable in their intent or outcome," he said.
Ms. Brown, who practiced juvenile and family law before entering politics and then served in the state House and Senate, is regarded as a liberal — though that covers a wide range of positions in Oregon.
She is married to a man, but will be the nation's first openly bisexual governor, according to the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund. She described her experience coming out as a bisexual in a survey on Outhistory.org, saying, "I believe it was during my early 30s that I figured out who, or what, I am."
In a brief comment to reporters outside her office on Friday, Ms. Brown said the day's events were "a truly sad day for the state of Oregon." She added: "As you can imagine, between now and Wednesday, there is a lot of work to be done, so that's what I'm going to go back and do." Ms. Rosenblum, the attorney general, said in a statement that the governor's resignation would not affect her investigation.
Separately, the United States attorney's office for Oregon issued subpoenas to the agency that maintains state records seeking email correspondence within the administration and correspondence with companies that did business with Ms. Hayes, The Associated Press reported.
Mr. Kitzhaber first rose through the state Legislature before winning the governor's office in 1994. He served two terms then, and subsequently made a comeback for a third term in 2010, becoming a signature presence for a generation of Oregonians — with an urban cowboy style of jeans, boots and a sport jacket with no tie that became a kind of personal brand.
The controversy surrounding Ms. Hayes began last fall when she confirmed a newspaper report that said she had married her third husband, an Ethiopian immigrant, for money in a sham marriage in 1997. She said she had been struggling financially and was paid about $5,000 to marry an 18-year-old man who wanted to stay in the United States. Separately, concerns have also been raised about whether Ms. Hayes used access to the governor for economic gain in consulting contracts for her company, 3EStrategies.
And with his opponents preparing to collect signatures for two recall petitions this summer, the attorney general's looming investigation and, perhaps most crucially, a vacuum of support from the Democrats who control the Legislature, Mr. Kitzhaber decided he had had enough.
In the statement released by his office, Mr. Kitzhaber said he would be exonerated. "That is why I asked both the Ethics Commission and the Attorney General to take a full and comprehensive look at my actions — and I will continue to fully cooperate with those ongoing efforts," he said.
But he also took a vehement swipe at the media and at erstwhile allies who had not stuck by his side. "It is deeply troubling to me to realize that we have come to a place in the history of this great state of ours where a person can be charged, tried, convicted and sentenced by the media with no due process and no independent verification of the allegations involved," Mr. Kitzhaber said. "But even more troubling — and on a very personal level as someone who has given 35 years of public service to Oregon — is that so many of my former allies in common cause have been willing to simply accept this judgment at its face value."
Many state politicians, including some who only a day earlier had publicly urged the governor to resign, were effusive on Friday in their praise of his contributions as a public figure.
"He has been a distinguished leader," said the speaker of the Oregon House of Representatives, Tina Kotek, who, along with the Senate president, issued a statement on Thursday asking the governor to quit. Ms. Kotek said the governor's focus on health care for low-income residents would benefit the state for years to come. "I support his decision to resign, because it is the right decision for Oregonians," Ms. Kotek said.
Other Democrats said they were excited by the prospect of a Kate Brown administration.
Representative Tobias Read, who worked with Ms. Brown when she was in the Legislature, called her "creative" and "prepared for the job." Asked whether he thought Ms. Brown might face criticism that she had helped push the governor out with her comments about his mental state, Mr. Read said he did not think so: "My sense is she's doing her job as secretary of state," he said.
The governor's departure, he added, was making no one at the Capitol really happy. "It's a sad thing, and I think everybody is just kind of coming to grips with it," Mr. Read said.


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Credits: 0.5
Term: Fall 2017, Spring 2018
Course Description:
Have you ever heard a piece of music that made you want to get up and dance? Cry your heart out? Sing at the top of your lungs? Whether pop, classical, or anything in between, music provides a powerful way for people to celebrate their humanity and connect with something larger than themselves. Music Appreciation: The Enjoyment of Listening not only will provide a historical perspective on music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, but it will also teach you the essentials of how to listen and really hear (with a knowledgeable ear) the different music that's all around you. Learning how to truly appreciate sound and melody is the best way to ensure a continued love of this delightful art form.
Topics & Concepts:
- Unit 1: The Elements of Music
- Unit 2: Pop Music
- Unit 3: Ancient Music
- Unit 4: Renaissance Music
- Unit 5: The Baroque Period
- Unit 6: The Classical Era
- Unit 7: The Romantic Period
- Unit 8: Jazz
- Music Appreciation Final Exam
Offerings and courses subject to change. Please refer to the VTVLC Student Information System as the most up-to-date resource of current offerings and required materials for courses.


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meet & greet pt. II
Oh hey there late post...again. It has been awhile since Ariel Tzu-Chi first reached out to us for a photography project she has been working on. The project itself is all film, and will be coming soon, (you can catch a sneak peak here) but these are some practice shots that she snapped.
I find the most interesting and rewarding aspect of blogging to be the connections we get to make. Sure there are fun events each week, and brand sponsorships, but I am always so excited when Adrienne and I get to meet other creative people. The San Francisco fashion community is so small, and keeping up with a blog definitely takes time to do. However, when we get the opportunity to befriend such great people we wouldn't have met otherwise, it is so worth it.
Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing shots by our new friend Ariel Tzu-Chi--they're coming soon!
Jackie Groffman


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Click on the image to view larger
Available Sizes and Current Prices
37 x 45 2200
48 x 59 4400
58 x 75 18,000
price includes framing
This little bateau was built and used to subsistence fish by a man named Moses. He is a native islander. Moses dresses in all white robes with a red sash and keffiyeh head scarf. I often saw him on his bike, a five gallon white bucket hanging from the handle bar. Moses must have a waist about 24 inches and looks as old as Methuselah. It was quite a sight to see him poling out into the creek to crab or shrimp.
For several years I looked out at the little boat, either afloat on the high tide or laying in the mud, on a low tide, like it was lost to the elements, sometimes the rising tide would submerge it and I thought it gone only for it to appear days later. I always thought it would make an interesting shot, but I was looking for just the right atmosphere to create what I had in mind.
My dentist is a wonderful, and talented, woman that owns quite a collection of my work. Medium pieces are in each operatory, waiting room, conference room and office, not to mention the four or five pieces she has in her home. It is kind of a running joke at each tooth cleaning when the next sixth month appointment is made. "How about Tuesday, Febuary the 2nd at 8:00 am?" they ask. "Sure," I chuckle in response. I am usually gone and we have to reschedule. But this time I was on the island and on the way to the dentist as I glanced over at the bateau riding on a rising tide. The fog so thick you could cut it with a knife. "Wow!" I jumped out of the car and called the dentist. They laughed when I told them I was not coming. "We were taking bets whether you would be here in this fog." "Tell Bonnie she will love it," I quickly replied.
Once I had my camera, I slipped in the cold water doubting I would be able to make this work. But the spartina grass had a firm hold on the little boat and I got the shot. I love the peaceful nature of this composition, the large expanse of open foggy sky, the detail, contrast and reflection of the little boat. It makes me think, "where has this boat taken you, or where can it?" The answer is different for us all.
Oh yeah, Dr. Bonnie has this one too.
The Finished Piece
All pieces are limited editions and come framed using only acid free materials, museum glass and olive wood frames made in Italy. As edition cross milestones, prices increase. As edition sizes close, no further printing of that size will be available, nor will new sizes be introduced.


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Greensburg District
Important Links
About the District
Our Greensburg District ranges from the former industrial mill-towns of the Allegheny Valley on the west; to the mountains and forests of the Ligonier area. The churches are located primarily
along the Rt. 22 and Rt. 30 corridors, with a number of churches in the McKeesport area. In this geography, there is a great variety of demographics – rural, small town, urban; and a mix of health
in the congregations. A variety of worship services and creative times for worship all help create new places for new people in the district.
Our local churches have made themselves visible in "mission engagement" through a variety of creative opportunities to connect people with practical ministries; all of which begin to build relationships between the congregation and the community in which they worship and grow. We utilize the expertise and resources of the district and WPA Conference and greater UMC.
The Greensburg district has also extended our reach financially, and prayerfully, by supporting the work of the churches in the Harare West District of the Zimbabwe Conference of the UMC. We have built personal and ongoing relationships with the clergy, congregations, and leadership in that area and are excited to see what the future holds for us.
The Greensburg District is an exciting place to serve God as clergy and congregations join together in ministry.
District Office
307 Freeport St
Delmont, PA 15626
Office Hours: Call or email
Phone: 724.461.7178
Pat Nelson
District Superintendent


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K9 KLOUD™ – Newly updated to be even better!
THE absolute best dog bed you can buy for your
medium to large breed dog seeking maximum support.
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As your dog ages, he or she might need the added padding and support found with the Kloud insert. Our K9 Kloud II fits both our 28x48 and 36x54 rectangle Classic wool, waxed cotton and canvas covers. You can order a Kloud II insert only by CLICKING HERE >


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Transformative Counseling for Teens & Adults
At one time or another, we come to feel static in our lives. And since life is always moving, these patches of stagnation knock us out of alignment with our natural rhythms of change. It's not a very good feeling, is it?
Yet, these static moments are also incredible growth opportunities. The feeling of stuck is what I like to call an uncomfortable intelligence—it's our bodies and minds telling us that we're tired of old habits and patterns, that it's time to evolve our potential in service of ourselves, our families and our communities.
Do you…
feel as if you've hit a giant wall of stagnation?
wish you could find motivation and clarity?
wonder what it'd be like to know your purpose?
want more out of life—more energy and more creativity?
sink into overwhelm and paralysis when ideas flow?
cope with anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, excessive fear?
feel enslaved by societal pressures?
If you've answered Yes to any of the above, you're in the right place. I encourage you to see your feelings and confusion as powerful motivators—without that feeling of stuck, you wouldn't feel the need to transform. So you've already made a huge step forward!
With transformative counseling, you will:
Learn to accept and move through discomfort with ease
Feel naturally engaged, relaxed, and in synch
Develop wisdom about your inner and outer worlds
Release old stories, beliefs, and patterns
Express your desires in movement and action
Transformative Counseling Process
In our private counseling sessions (we can meet online or in person), we will use techniques such as conversation, awareness of bodily sensations, and movement exploration to:
Define yourself in a way that leads to self-actualization and radical acceptance
Sift through ingrained story lines about yourself, your past, and the world
Identify yourself in relationship to yourself and the external world
Engage your passions authentically
Questions about transformational counseling? Ready to book your first individual counseling session with me? I look forward to hearing from you. Get in touch.
Open and Purposeful
Get my insights on staying open to your creativity and compassion by signing up here.
Upcoming Events
6 Week Women's Group
March 2, 6:30-8pm
Social Justice 101
March, 2015 / 4-week course


text: Preheat oven to 200ºC/180ºC fan/gas mark 6. Put butternut squash, red onion, courgette and carrots into a non-stick roasting tin. Add rapeseed oil, cumin and black pepper; toss to mix well. Spread vegetables out in a single layer in tin. Roast in oven for about 30 minutes or until nearly tender. Add tomato halves; roast for a further 10 minutes or so until vegetables are tender. Meanwhile, cook Puy lentils in stock in a pan for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain well (discarding hot stock). Remove roast vegetables from oven and tip into a serving bowl; add cooked lentils and spinach leaves. Pour over lemon and herb dressing to taste (see cook's tip); toss together to mix. Serve hot or at room temperature. Cook's tips Serve with our lemon and herb dressing Sprinkle salad with a few sunflower or pumpkin seeds or toasted pine nuts, just before serving, if you like This salad also works well for a packed lunch or picnic, in which case, cool after cooking and refrigerate until serving Nutritional information


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Can't Help Falling in Love
The Sullivans
- $5.99
- $5.99
Publisher Description
"Not since Nora Roberts has anyone been able to write a big family romance series with every book as good as the last. Bella Andre never disappoints." Revolving Bookcase Reviews
Millions of readers around the world have fallen in love with Bella Andre's New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romances about the Sullivans!
BOOK DESCRIPTION: Gabe Sullivan risks his life every day as a firefighter in San Francisco. But after learning a brutal lesson about professional boundaries, he knows better than to risk his heart to his fire victims ever again. Especially the brave mother and daughter he saved from a deadly apartment fire...and can't stop thinking about.
Megan Harris knows she owes the heroic firefighter everything for running into a burning building to save her and her seven-year-old daughter. Everything except her heart. Because after losing her navy pilot husband five years ago, she has vowed to never suffer through loving - and losing - a man with a dangerous job again.
Only, when Gabe and Megan meet again and uncontrollable flames of desire ignite between them, how can he possibly ignore her courage, determination, and beauty? And how can she deny not only his strong bond with her daughter...but the way his sweetly sensual kisses are challenging her to risk everything she's been guarding for so long? If one - or both - of them aren't careful, they just might end up falling in love.
CAN'T HELP FALLING IN LOVE is part of Bella Andre's #1 bestselling series about The Sullivans. While it can easily be read as a stand-alone story, you'll likely enjoy reading the other books, too.
The Look of Love
From This Moment On
Can't Help Falling In Love
I Only Have Eyes For You
If You Were Mine
Let Me Be The One
Come A Little Bit Closer
Always On My Mind
Kissing Under The Mistletoe
One Perfect Night
The Way You Look Tonight
It Must Be Your Love
Just To Be With You
I Love How You Love Me
All I Ever Need Is You
Every Beat Of My Heart
Now That I've Found You
Since I Fell For You
Sweeter Than Ever
The Best Is Yet To Come
Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You
You Do Something To Me
More New York & Maine Sullivans are coming soon!
Breathless In Love
Reckless In Love
Fearless In Love
Irresistible In Love
More Maverick Billionaires are coming soon!
Kiss Me Like This
Tempt Me Like This
Love Me Like This
"We can always rely on Bella Andre to deliver a great love story. Her love scenes are classy, well-written and beautifully interwoven into the storyline, putting more emphasis on the sexual tension between the characters rather than the carnal acts themselves. They are done with finesse and they are SENSATIONAL. Read this book, read all of them and join the Bella Andre bandwagon - you won't regret it." ~ Natasha Is A Book Junkie Reviews
"I am so glad I found this series and if you haven't read Bella Andre yet, you are seriously missing out! An auto-buy author!"
~ Under the Covers Reviews
"Each book is so remarkable and you really come to love the characters. This series is incredible. It's one of my favorites. If you haven't started them yet, you are missing out!" ~ Guilty Pleasures Reviews
"Bella Andre writes warm, sexy contemporary romance that always gives me a much needed pick me up. Reading one of her books is truly a pleasure." Maya Banks, NYT Bestselling Author
"The perfect combination of sexy heat and tender heart." Barbara Freethy, #1 NYT Bestselling Author
"Gabe just might be my favorite Sullivan yet! I LOVED this book." Marie Force, NYT Bestselling Author
Bella Andre's New York Times and USA Today bestselling novels have been #1 bestsellers around the world and she has sold more than 6 million books so far! Known for "sensual, empowered stories enveloped in heady romance" (Publishers Weekly), her books have been Cosmopolitan Magazine "Red Hot Reads" twice and have been translated into ten languages. She also writes "sweet" contemporary romances as Lucy Kevin. There are more than 50,000 5 star reviews for Bella Andre's books on Goodreads!
Customer ReviewsSee All
My New favorite Sullivan!
Loves this book to pieces!! Sophie and Jake's love for each other melted my heart!!! Loved every word of this love story!


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State to gobble up private businesses?
In the interview published on the eve of the election, the businessman claimed to be a key money manager for a group of high-ranking Kremlin officials and their relatives. He also suggested that he had the Kremlin's blessing to conduct the so called 'velvet re-privatisation' to bring privately-owned companies back under state control. His role would involve helping the Kremlin to gobble up certain strategic enterprises.
"The goal is to reverse the consequences of the chaos of the 1990s and to return to state control those strategic enterprises, which were sold wrongly or illegally. To do that, we're using all legal means at our disposal," claimed Shvartsman.
While the state has indeed regained some of the companies sold in the 1990s, Shvartsman's revelations have proved to be a bombshell, not least because of the fear it created in some business circles.
Just days later, Shvartsman retracted some of his statements. He said the newspaper had changed the interview's text in what he called an example of 'literary editing'.
But Kommersant insists it is Shvartsman who is changing his story. The newspaper's editor-in-chief, Andrey Vasilyev, showed RT's correspondent Oksana Boyko a pre-print copy of the interview bearing Shvartsman's signature on every page.
"I think his interview was sanctioned by some influential people, even though I don't know by whom. If that is indeed the case, then I think the public outcry has forced these people to retract this interview," Vasilyev said.
It was not only the interview that was retracted. Shvartsman's partners in a proposed venture fund have also pulled the plug.
Meanwhile, Russia's business community is awash with speculation as to whether Shvartsman's statements have any merit.
While the Kremlin's spokesman described the article as a fake, many business leaders say it's probably not far from the truth: "Knowingly or not, Mr. Shvartsman told the truth. The truth about unavoidable faults of such political systems as sovereign democracy," said Anatoly Chubais, head of the Russian electricity monopoly RAO UES.
Whether this interview is valid or not, it does show the Russian government in a rather unflattering way. While to some, the very fact of its publication confirms the existence of free press in Russia, to others it's yet another sign of how easily it can be manipulated.


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Hello There!
We look forward to booking your appointment as quickly as possible to offer the full experience of our wellness studio!
Rebooking with our studio - Please provide the best day & time that would work best for you.
Vouchered Guest - Please provide the following required* information that applies, so that we may take the next step to booking your appointment:
First & Last Name*
Best Number of Contact(if cell phone; carrier as well i.e. 803.200.2103/verizon)*
Email Address
Service Your Requesting
Voucher, Coupon, Gift Certificate etc.(i.e Groupon xxxx-xxxx(digits only)*, LivingSocial 1000xxxxxxxxx*, Gift Certificate 9563Gxxxxxxxx*)
Best Day & Time(s) that works best for you, if your first request happens to be unavailable
**Same day booking is a member only service...however, guest are able to book via email.
***Also, please take note:
There is usually a minimum 2 week wait for any appointment; per availability...however we will check the first available once we receive the above required* information.
Vouchers are excluded from Group and/or Couple Services(i.e.separate appointments at same time,etc.
Meditating Massage Wellness Studio
Studio Management


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Lister, an a Australian born artist (currently living in Brooklyn). His work is absolutely fresh and vibrant.
Make sure to catch his work at the gallery at an exhibit titled "How To Catch A Time Traveler".
Here are photos from a recent mural Lister did in Brooklyn.
How to Catch a Time Traveler
Exhibition Dates:
March 19th – April 19th, 2010
Friday, March 19th, 2010
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Photo credit: LUNA PARK


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In the lead-up to tonight's State of the Union address, leading pollster Mark Mellman of The Mellman Group briefed journalists on results from a just-completed nationwide survey exploring American attitudes on Iran, its nuclear program and the policy approach of the Obama administration and Congress. The survey also examines what Americans believe should be required of Iran in any final agreement, and explores whether military force should be used to achieve those goals if sanctions and diplomacy do not.
A number of recent surveys have converged on several themes, in particular uncovering broad skepticism regarding both Iranian intentions and various aspects of the current U.S. approach toward the Islamic republic. There is still on-going debate, however, over the underlying dynamics driving such skepticism. This new Mellman Group poll, conducted January 21-23rd, drills down on those issues and provides new insights.


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The Fool's Gold event began roughly 5 years ago in a parking lot in artist cultivated Soho, as notable performer A-track puts it, on their bright yellow and feel good site. This event is known to be the vision of Fools Gold mission: to bring fans closer to their favorite artist to not just see them perform, but provide an experience much greater and more personal than that.
Day Off will be August 29th in La La Land, with a line up that includes Action Bronson, A-Track, Travis Scott, Milo & Otis, Towkio and much much more. For me this will be first time I get introduced to the sounds of this line up, which is exciting. Based off the history of artist that I vibe with on FG catalogue I know that I should go in ready to hear something that's gritty and real.
If you can't make this LA line up, no worries, FG Day Off will be in music melting pots such as Miami, ATL, Austin, and more.
For those that can make this upcoming hype event, can't wait to kick it and jam to sounds that get to core of good vibes and push the envelope on the integrity of music. To FG: thank you for this event and can't wait to meet the new homies.
Check out some of my favorite artist from FG: Danny Brown, Kid Cudi, A-Trak, Ta-Ku, Tchami, and Giraffage.
Here's a link to the Soundcloud especially made for this event.


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We've all been there before. You text a guy but he doesn't text back. It leaves you wondering what happened? Asking, "Is there something wrong with me?" I've spent quite a bit of time this week researching what it means when a guy doesn't text you back. Because let's be honest. We all want to know. I was having a recent conversation with two different girlfriends about "texting etiquette." Both of them were seeing guys who were not very good at texting back. Questions were raised like: How long is too long to wait for a text? And should I say something to him if he doesn't respond? In this modern world of global communication, is it strange when a guy doesn't text you back?
Although I am old fashioned and prefer a phone call over a text (especially from a guy I am dating), I can't help but wonder about the etiquette of texting. It's a bit of an impersonal way to communicate, with tiny words displayed on a small digital screen. But it's also a quick and simple way to get fast responses. My question is this: Why do we make it so complicated?
No Texts? What Does It Mean?
My one friend met a guy through friends. They hung out and were inseparable, but then things started to get more serious. She wanted to meet his friends and his parents. She started leaving clothes at his house. They went on a few dates and then he started getting shady. No return of texts, no return of phone calls. One time he went a week without texting her back, only to resurface saying he had "lost his phone."
What He Said:"I lost my phone."
What He Really Meant: I am not interested in a more serious relationship with you.
The other friend was dating a guy who would text and call at weird hours of the day. He claimed it was because of his work schedule, but he only wanted to hang out with her late at night. He didn't take her out on dates, he didn't really even want to get to know her. She was- in all senses of the word- just his booty call. The only problem was, she didn't know this. With their constant texting and phone calls, she assumed this was leading to something more. But when she would text him about romance, he would suddenly go silent for weeks on end. What was the sudden silence about?
What He Said:Nothing...unless it's after midnight and then he sends you a billion texts.
What He Really Meant: You're fun as a booty call and I have no intention of showing you off. I may even have a girlfriend or wife at home.
Yet another friend is a text-aholic. She sends about 8 or 9 texts at the same time. If you do not text her back within 10 or 15 minutes, she assumes you hate her. She met a guy and went on a few dates. After each date she would text him right away, sending several texts saying what a great time she had. I warned her to cool down on the texting but she didn't listen. After date number three, he just stopped texting her back, never to be heard from again.
What He Said: One word answers. "Nah." Then, "Yes" Then radio silence.
What He Really Meant: You're coming on way too strong. Let me do some of the chasing.
So what are the lessons here, ladies?
Men know how to communicate, they know how a text message works and no, he didn't lose his phone. If you are suddenly given the cold shoulder, there is a reason for it. A true gentleman will call you, set up dates, and do whatever he can to spend time with you (and not just in the middle of the night). He will text you back and he will be the one sending you the first text message. If he is truly interested, you will know. You won't be able to keep him away.
In this text-happy generation, try not to get too text obsessed. A text message here or there to a guy is fine, but if you start texting him non-stop, you end up looking like a psycho. Also, if a guy doesn't have the decency to text you back, ask yourself, "why am I bothering with him? I'm worth so much more!"
Because you are.


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Corporate training
How's business? Would you like to boost employee morale, increase motivation and have a happy and productive workforce? Whether you are the CEO of a large business or a manager leading a smaller team, Costa can help.
With 26 years of experience, Costa is a highly experienced trainer who has helped and inspired people to be their "best" at work.
Costa can help you to:
- Enable your employees to feel motivated and happy
- Increase loyalty and productivity
- Create a positive team spirit
- Align personal objectives with corporate vision
- Empower employees to realise their potential
Costa provides a range of self-development seminars in:
Costa's sessions use relaxation and visualisation techniques to help employees to realise their goals.
The seminars, which are usually a half day, can be delivered in your offices or held at The Greenhouse, MediaCityUK.
Costa can also tailor-make bespoke seminars or training events designed to fit your specific needs.
Positive thinking & self-esteem
Positive thinking can be one of the most powerful attributes an employee can bring to an organisation. Employees with high self-esteem and a positive, "can do" attitude are known to be more productive, inspirational to their colleagues and are more capable of achieving results.
In this course you can discover the incredible power of positive self-belief and learn ways to harness the power of your subconscious mind to achieve your best at work.
Costa will inspire you and your team to reach your potential. Through powerful visualisation and hypnosis techniques Costa will demonstrate ways to "programme" your mind to achieve greater productivity and most importantly create happy employees whose aspirations are limitless.
Course content:
- A practical demonstration that shows how your thinking affects your health and wellbeing
- Take a self-diagnostic test to find out which areas in your life you would like to improve
- How to harness the positive power of self-belief to improve your performance and productivity at work
- How to stop negative thinking and understand its impact on business performance
- Tried and tested techniques to turn negative feelings and situations into positive outcomes
Work / life balance
Fears of redundancy, excessive work-load and the expectation to be seen to be doing long hours at work can all contribute to an imbalance in our working and personal lives. Coupled with the non-stop stream of technology which often infiltrates into our personal time, it can be hard to switch off, even when we are not in work.
If you are finding it difficult to achieve a balance in your life, then you are probably feeling under stress, which can quickly take its toll on your physical and mental health. Sleep problems, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety can all result when we are not getting the balance right. These in turn can then make you become even less productive and less efficient at work.
This course helps participants to evaluate their lives and develop strategies that enable them to focus on what matters most at work and in their personal lives.
Course Content:
- Identify key issues at work and at home that are stressful or causing you to feel that you cannot cope
- Recognise current limiting behaviours that are sabotaging success in any area of your life
- How to deal with the self-critical voice in your head that tells you that you have not achieved enough or that you are "not good enough"
- Prioritise what is ultimately important to you
- Learn how to use hypnotherapy to "programme" yourself to be a happier person in both your professional and personal life
- Learn assertive communication skills to negotiate priorities
- Achieve much more in much less time
Human doing & human being
Do you believe that the quality of your life and your happiness, security and success depend on external factors or other people? Or are you open to the prospect that your personal journey to happiness starts inside your own mind and heart?
Would you like to discover and connect with your inner, untapped resources which each of us has, but seldom uses, so that you can live your best life?
The course, which is based on Costa's new book, Human Doing & Human Being, will set you on your own personal journey to discover whether you are on the right track in your life or if you feel that "something" is missing.
We can all do with a boost to our self-esteem and whether you are looking to improve your relationships with others, progress in your career or just feel more confident in yourself, Costa will guide you on your journey.
Course content:
- Identify areas of your life that you would like to see positive changes in and evaluate your own self-esteem
- Learn strategies to improve your self-esteem and believe that you can be fulfilled in both your professional and personal life
- Practical demonstrations on how to cut through people's negative mind sets, thereby positively influencing all your professional and personal relationships
- A "blow your mind" visualisation session to enable you to realise your full potential
- How to develop feelings of peace and self-acceptance in your life so you can go on to be a better, happier you
- An introduction to visualisation and relaxation techniques which will help you to unwind and connect to your spiritual self
- A guided group meditation
The course includes a complimentary copy of Costa's new book, Human Doing & Human Being, which includes six audio self-development sessions for you to improve your self-esteem and realise your potential.
Costa is also available for group and one-to-one relaxation and hypnotherapy sessions to reduce stress and improve employee wellbeing.
To find out how Costa can help you contact him on:
0161 860 4797 / firstname.lastname@example.com


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Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease affecting millions of people all over the world. The joint disease arises when the protective cartilage located on the ends of your bones wears down over time. If the cartilage wears down completely, there is a possibility the patient will be left with bone rubbing on bone. Even though osteoarthritis can damage any joint in the body, it frequently affects the joints in your hands, hips, knees and spine. Common symptoms of the disease include pain in the affected area, stiffness causing limited range of motion, a clicking or grinding sensation when in motion, tenderness of the affected joint and the presence of bone spurs (portions of bone that feel like hard lumps).
Although the disease is not curable, maintaining an active healthy life can improve symptoms.


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28th Annual
Mad Poets Festival
On Sunday, October 4, 2015
From noon to five, The Annual Mad Poets Festival, features 40+ locally & nationally known poets. Since 1987, this poetry festival has been bringing poets together at MEDIA BOROUGH HALL, in the Mansion Parlor, 3rd and Jackson Streets, Media.
TO SIGN UP: Email firstname.lastname@example.com with "FESTIVAL" in the subject line. DEADLINE FOR SIGNING UP: 9/11/15 Hurry! The schedule fills up fast!
*This Festival is a benefit / food bank for CityTeam Ministries! Your "ticket" is a non-perishable food item!


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THE GREAT HUMAN MYSTERY... plus cake!
There is no greater human mystery than our ability to communicate.
To take a picture or concept and implant it perfectly into the mind of another - what wonder!
What marvel!
Nay, what miracle, even!
So the next time you're ordering a cake, minions, just think:
Hey, at least they spelled it right.
Except they didn't.
(But, c'mon, so close.)
That's not what you should think, though.
What you should think is how amazing it is that we can come together as a species through our words and language. That we have this means of showing others how we're feeling, what we're thinking!
And just think: without language...
...this wouldn't be nearly as funny.
Thanks to Kim C., Pia F., Taryn, Edie S., & Tony B. for striking out.
Thank you for using our Amazon links to shop! USA, UK, Canada.


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History of the Demon Girl - A Comedic Journey Through Hell
Race your way through the 9 Circles of Hell in this 2-D pixelated adventure, inspired by Dante's The Divine Comedy!
History of the Demon Girl - A Comedic Journey Through Hell
Race your way through the 9 Circles of Hell in this 2-D pixelated adventure, inspired by Dante's The Divine Comedy!
History of the Demon Girl will be released simultaneously for Windows and Mac - it will also be released for Steam later (if Greenlit).
"Like a classic NES game, History of the Demon Girl has great chiptunes and a simple gameplay hook that steadily lures you back to improve your scores and speedrun times." - Matt Litten, VGBlogger.com
"It's so full of wit and charm and above all else really cool ideas and gameplay." - Mark Elliott, RetroGameGeeks.co.uk
"History of the Demon Girl challenges you to challenge yourself." - Callum Goss, The Daily Chill
Vote for the Game on Steam Greelight!
Check out the FREE alpha demo on Kongregate! Or download it from the History of the Demon Girl IndieDB download page!
If you're curious, you can also check out the old version on Kongregate!
For more info, follow the Tumblr, like Silhouette on Facebook or Tweet @PlaySilhouette.
Have an Instagram account? Silhouette posts there too!
Instead of focusing on perma-death (I mean... I rogue-like those games, I just don't know if I rogue-like-like those games. You know what I'm saying?), I wanted to make a game that supported fun, challenge, and replayability. Inspired by NES classics, Demon Girl will feature over 30 levels of high-speed retro demon action.
With just a few keystrokes, players of all experience levels can race through Hell and escape eternal damnation, but it will take more than a mere mortal to receive a perfect ten on every stage.
At the end of every level, Sam rates your performance. You can replay as many times as you like to attempt to improve your score, until you finally "token" a level: achieved by getting a perfect 10 from Sam. You'll still move on if you slammed into every obstacle and received a 1, but Sam's not gonna be very happy and he'll let you know it.
So in History of the Demon Girl, players can't ever really lose - they can only become more awesome as they improve.
What was your fastest time in 2-3? Did you figure out how to collect all of the tokens in Level 4-2? 6-0 is ridiculous!!!
These are the sorts of conversations that I think players love to have about games - I know I do. It's not about the completing of the game it's about the *ahem* Journey. And that is the kind of experience I strive to create here at Silhouette and that definitely applies to History of the Demon Girl.
Many players have noted the game's unique style of pixel art and animation. While the humor is sometimes dark...
[Poor little guy... Who would've done such a thing???]
[Oh. Yeah, that makes sense actually.]
...the game retains a fun/cartoon-y atmosphere!
While many of the characters and their designs are original, the game actually takes a lot of inspiration from older Capcom games such as the Mega Man franchise and Little Nemo: The Dream Master, as well as newer titles like Katamari Damacy:
It also borrows concepts from The Divine Comedy by Dante and Japanese mythological imagery. These influences are most apparent in the Circles of Inferno on which the level system is based and Sam's character design:
For the Demon Girl soundtrack, I've crafted all of my own songs, instruments, and sounds in FamiTracker. Utilizing the Nintendo MMC5 expansion module, the tracks sound exactly as they would if played through an original NES. In fact, the songs could be placed on a cartridge from that era provided it had the MMC5 expansion (Castlevania III, for instance, had such a cartridge). This isn't just a keyboard with a sample pack - it's the real deal.
Here are a few samples from the game's demo:
The 9th Circle Level Music
The Break Level Music
And here is a preview for an upcoming level!
The 8th Circle Level Music
Note: The sound effects were also all created within FMT, adding to the authentic and unified feel of the game's sound design.
Right now, I'm asking for the bare amount to get the game to a finished state and I appreciate every single dollar towards that end! Going over would be incredible and will only increase the chances of the game being exactly what it needs to be.
All of these goals are things that I would love to add to the game or give to the backers, if I get the money and therefore have the time. Without any further ado, here are the Stretch Goals:
> $10,000 - I will add four hidden bonus levels to the game. Portals to these levels will be placed throughout the title and you will have to hunt them down and find them. These bonus levels will be called "Hell Holes" and they will be insanely challenging/fun runs. I look forward to getting to design them for you all.
> $13,000 - I will add an epilogue scene to the game after the credits. The amount of animation involved may push the release date a little, but I'd have the funding to accomplish it, so it would just mean a little bit of patience.
> $15,000 - I will add an unlockable mini-game. Players can unlock this by achieving a perfect 10 on every level.
> $20,000 - 8 Extra Songs! Right now the break level music is always going to be the same - like Mega Man boss music. If we pass the $20,000 mark, I will customize each Circle's break level music. This would mean 8 more songs for the soundtrack!
$25,000 - I will put together a small documentary about the making of the game. This will include videos I will post to backers as well as extra BTS footage. Everyone who backs above $10 will be given a link to it. Note: As this is a stretch goal, the documentary will release sometime in 2015. I will shoot the pieces during development, but only cut it together after the game is released. My main focus is on getting you the game on time.
> $25,000 - I will weep uncontrollably for probably a good five minutes. Seriously, I can't imagine the sheer joy that would flow if this were to happen. I can only say that I would do my very best to use every dollar wisely. This would mean better equipment for exporting to the different platforms, better software to work with, setting up a real backer forum for feedback, and maybe even bringing in paid testers. It would be a major step forward for Silhouette Games as a studio and would just blow my mind!
Here's how the rewards break down!
- $1 - Exclusive Digital Wallpaper
- $3 - Early Copy of Soundtrack! (NEW!)
- $3 - DRM-Free Copy (Win/Mac) - Green Light Special (Limited: 500)
- $5 - DRM-Free Copy (Win/Mac) - Steam if Greenlit
- $10 - Digital BTS Booklet - Credit in Booklet
- $15 - 2" Sticker - Choose 1 - Credited in Game & Booklet
- $20 - Digital Copy of Soundtrack
- $25 - Early Access + Bonus Soundtrack D/L
- $30 - 1" Standard Token Pin
- $35 - 2" Stickers - Choose Any 2!!!
- $40 - 1" Boost Token Pin $45 - 2" Stickers - Choose Any 3!!!
- $50 - 1" Standard Token Pin - SIGNED/NUMBERED (Limited Edition: 100)
- $55 - 2" Stickers - ALL FOUR! (Or Mix & Match!)
- $60 - 64x64 Pixel Portrait Displayed In-Game (Limited Edition: 30)
- $60 - Get both the Standard and Boost Token Pins! (NEW!)
- $100 - 1" Boost Token Pin - SIGNED/NUMBERED (Limited Edition: 20)
- $120 - Appear in the Game's Ending! (NEW!)
- $1,000 - 1 hr Q&A Skype Session w/ Shadow64 + Standard & Boost Pin (Limited: 5)
- $10,000 - Sneak Peek at next Silhouette Games title, 1hr Skype Session, 64x64 potrait, all 4 stickers, both signed pins (specially labeled 101/100 - if sold out of limited editions!), plus one-of-a-kind golden edition 1" Boost Token Pin. (Limited: 1)
Want more information? Read on!
Backer-Exclusive Wallpaper
At the level of $1 or more, everyone will receive a backer-exclusive wallpaper in one of three colors. This wallpaper will be sized at 1920 by 1080 and will therefore be perfect for most HD monitor backgrounds. These will be mailed out as soon as I've received the funding from Kickstarter. I want you all to have something awesome to enjoy while you wait for the game to be completed. Thank you all for backing!
DRM-Free and Steam Copy - (if Greenlit)
At $5, you'll get a DRM-free copy of History of the Demon Girl. The final game will feature over 30 levels and be available for play on Windows and Mac. I'm told that the current version of the game plays well when using Wine on Linux - that being said there are no plans for native Linux support at this time.
Since the game hit the $100 funding mark, I decided to push the game onto Steam Greenlight. So far it's received over 600 votes - prompting the 500 copy Greenlight Special! You can now get the game for $3!
If and when the game is Greenlit on Steam, everyone who got a DRM-Free copy will also receive a Steam Key.
Digital Behind the Scenes Booklet
[Sample Page]
At $10 or more, backers will receive a digital Behind The Scenes Booklet - complete with all sorts of details and information about how History of the Demon Girl was made. It will be in Adobe PDF format and printable at about 5" X 7" at 300 DPI. Backing at this level will also place your name in the credits at the back of the booklet under "Booklet Backer".
2" White Vinyl Stickers
At $15 you'll be able to select one of four 2" white vinyl stickers! These are perfect for water bottles, laptops, even car bumpers! Also, after this price point, you'll automatically be featured in the game's credits under one of the many backer credit listings!
At $35 you'll be able to select 2 of these! At $45 you'll get 3 of them! And at $55 you'll collect all four!
Digital Soundtrack
For $20, you'll be able to select a digital download of the game's soundtrack! The soundtrack will include all of the final music from the game - over 15 tracks of retro sound!!!
UPDATE -- Like the soundtrack? Now you can get an early digital download for just $3!
Early Access and Bonus Soundtrack
At $25, backers will be able to select Early Access and a special Bonus Soundtrack download! This bonus album will contain early and alternate versions of the songs that make it into the final game. It may even contain a few songs which were cut as well as one or two surprises!
The early access will provide a couple of milestone builds along the way for backers to check out! While I won't have time to do monthly builds, there will be at least one beta and most likely another build of the game before the release version. These will be for backer eyes only!
Throughout the game, Roku picks up regular tokens and boost tokens to speed her way through the levels of Hell. At the $30 level, Backers can receive a 1" pin with the standard token art ($50 for the limited signed/numbered edition).
At the $40 level, Backers can receive a 1" pin with the boost token art ($100 for the limited signed/numbered edition).
UPDATE -- At the $60 level, you can now receive both the standard AND boost token pins!
These are just the right size for backpacks, messenger bags, purses, bulletin boards, or anything else you want to pin!
The signed version of each pin will feature an "S64" on the back, as well as a number showing that it was part of the limited collection. There will be 100 signed standard tokens, but only 20 signed boost tokens - and once they're gone, they're gone!
64 x 64 Pixel Portrait
[Sample blown up to 128x128 - Image Resizes Well]
Originally $75 - now at the $60 level (!!!), backers can receive a 64 x 64 pixel portrait of themselves which will also appear in the credits. This image will be made from a photograph or a drawing of the backer. The portrait request must be of the backer and not of a friend or protected IP.
Disclaimer: Silhouette Games reserves the right to reject any inappropriate or suspicious images.
For $120, a History of the Demon Girl version of YOU will appear in the game's ending! When Roku escapes from Hell, you'll be one of the 30 people walking the Earth! Plus you'll be emailed a copy of your sprite (roughly 40x32 pixels) that you can keep and use on social media or however you'd like!
1 Hour Skype Session
For $1000 or more, backers can choose to receive a 1 Hour Skype Session with me, Shadow64. During this hour we can discuss the game and do a general Q&A about the development process and game making.
The Supreme Backer
There can only be one! For the hefty tier of $10,000, one backer will receive every previous reward (including a signed version of each pin - labeled 101/100, if they've sold out!), as well as a signed, one-of-a-kind gold-looking version of the Token pin! They will also get their own screen in the credits and their own page in the BTS booklet where they will be proclaimed: THE SUPREME BACKER.
Stretch goals and rewards are great, but let's talk about funding. The campaign is set for $8,000, and while that may seem like a lot, let me break it down:
10% has to go to KS and Amazon for handling the payments. That will leave $7,200 left. Rewards will vary, but we can take about 10% out for creating and shipping those - another $800. That leaves $6,400 for ~960 hours of work over the next six months.
That's assuming 40 hours/week and four weeks/month (or 24 weeks total). In actuality, I will most likely work over 40 hours/week on this and in 6 months there are usually 26 weeks (not 24) - but let's use 40 and 24 as the base.
That comes out to only about $6.66/hr (I swear that wasn't intended) - plus, remember, I'm going to be working a lot more hours than that, meaning it will probably be closer to $5/hr or less for me.
So when I say that I'm only looking for enough money to actually get me to the finish line, now you know that you can trust me - this is the bare minimum I can ask for and even with it, I'll most likely have to continue to dip into what little savings I have left.
Almost forgot: Steam Greenlight has a one-time $100 submission fee - there goes another 1.25%!
Absolutely every dollar will help me get there and thank you for your support.
What about things like taxes, licensing, and legal fees? I consider those development costs - because they are! First of all, leave the legal fees to me - they're a business expense.
Secondly, taxes and legal fees should ONLY be a worry if I go OVER the initial funding goal - and that's one of those good problems. The reason for this is that Kickstarter funds are treated as income and in the US, the standard deductible is high enough that it should cover the amount that remains after the 10% that KS and Amazon will take out.
Since most of the remaining funds will go directly towards the creation of a product and this is my first year as a business, there are a lot of tax breaks for start-ups that I will be able to utilize.
As for licensing fees, you're totally allowed to distribute games made with Flash Professional. This is the reason so many people use it as a development platform.
My name is Danny Mastrangelo, though I'm credited and often go by the name Shadow64 (my first screen name from around 1998). Check out this link to my first Geocities site if you want to see my childhood gaming love in action.
I was born and raised in San Jose, California. I graduated from Santa Clara University in 2006 with a BA in Theater. After college, I worked for Sony Computer Entertainment of America in Foster City as a contract QA tester. During that time, I was on the team that helped debug and launch the Playstation 3.
After working for Sony for a year, I moved down to Los Angeles and got a job working for Square Enix (US). I worked there for 5 years from June of 2008 to June of 2013 - I had a blast and I learned a lot.
I decided to put that knowledge to use and left Square last June. After ushering several amazing games onto the shelf (including Final Fantasy XIII, Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep, and more!), I wanted to pursue my lifelong dream of making my own games.
I am the sole developer at Silhouette Games. From art to story to music to programming - even marketing. I'm the only one here. I'm writing this right now in fact: Hi! :D
For more information about me, check out my bio!
I have personally funded this game's development since September of last year, as well as the pre-production from June to then. I've been working non-stop, but now that I have finished the demo (and updated it), I'm looking for some outside help to finish the full game and get it out the door. My funds are rapidly dwindling at this point and the savings I have left won't get me to the finish line on its own. Kickstarter seemed like the best way to go because it's how I've personally helped other great creative projects come to life.
When I was still at Square Enix, I backed the famous Double Fine Adventure project on Kickstarter. Watching the documentary videos was one of the biggest inspirations for my finally taking the risk and going independent. Maybe my game will do that for someone else. I hope it does. I've also backed several other projects on Kickstarter (not just gaming related) and, as a member of the backer community, I feel like it's the best way to raise funding for a creative project - as well as being the one that I'm most familiar with.
If I don't meet my initial funding goal, it may be time to close the doors on Roku's story and work on something new that I can produce on a much shorter timeline. It would be unfortunate since I truly believe in this game, but ultimately when you're just starting out, that's how it goes.
Risks and challenges
I've been in the video game industry for 6 years - almost 7 now - and I've held a lot of different positions in that time. I'm no stranger to the crunch of developing a game and if you liked the demo, then I've already proven that I know what I'm doing and can make a game that is fun for you in a timely fashion, all while on a shoe-string budget.
That all said, the most obvious risk is that as a solo developer, I'm only one person and can only do so much. If (oh dear) I suddenly get ill or (please no) wind up in the hospital, then the game suffers a delay. I'll do my best to make up for any lost time, but ultimately there is no one else here to take up the slack - this game's success is all riding on ME.
All that I can say in response to that reality is that accidents obviously happen, but I am extremely driven and have an excellent track record. During my time at both Square Enix and SCEA there were plenty of deadlines and projects that rested firmly on my shoulders and I never failed to get the job done. I stayed late, I worked weekends, I even stayed late on weekends - nothing kept me from accomplishing a task. Likewise, I will do absolutely everything in my power to make sure that this game is finished, polished, and on time.
As is evidenced by my goals and breakdown, I'm a very organized person and try to be realistic with my expectations at all times. I will always be open and honest with backers about any and all delays should they arise, but I've also given myself a fair amount of buffer to account for any unexpected delays.
I've worked hard to budget time and money for the rewards, but this is one area where you have to guess a little bit since it's entirely dependent on what people pledge and which reward tiers they select. For this reason, the physical rewards have been limited in all cases - at first.
Similarly, I originally didn't have plans to do international shipping for physical rewards. I talked to some people and figured out the logistics and now it's available (for a small increase in backing to cover the shipping difference). Once the campaign reaches its initial goal, I'll consider any present demand and look into the budget to see if I can add more physical rewards without negatively affecting the project's goals.
Thank you for your patience and understanding with this!Learn about accountability on Kickstarter
Funding period
- (30 days)


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Microsoft: Everyone stop running so the fat kid Win RT can catch up
Does the WinPhone update keep you happy?
Analysis Windows Phone has been a success for Microsoft in 2013, thanks almost entirely to very low cost but good value Nokia devices. But the platform itself advances at the pace of a continental shelf on a work-to-rule. Will the latest platform enhancements in GDR3 help?
Most certainly - but it's all WP users will have to chew on for many months; the major improvements forthcoming in Windows 8.1 Phone won't appear percolate down to users until next summer. So until then, what you see in GDR3 will be all you get. On the other hand, Windows RT – the Win8 variant designed for ARM devices such as Redmond's unloved Surface RT slab – seems to be receiving plenty of attention.
The irony is that Microsoft has shifted into a faster, annual release cycle in the place where a fast release cycle isn't really wanted – on the enterprise desktop. And just where a faster release cycle is needed, it moved the Phone team into a slower, 18-month release cycle. For Windows Phone, Microsoft applies the brakes.
Enterprises, on the other hand, don't want or need an annual Windows refresh and there's nothing in 8.1 that couldn't have been shipped out in a service pack. Whereas in smartphones Microsoft still has much to do to catch up: users have been crying out for search and better notifications.
What we've got, apart from support for devices with larger displays, are a few very useful but still very minor improvements. GDR3 has a "Driving Mode", custom ringtones for text messages, a rotation lock, better accessibility and the ability to close apps. Not with a swipe, alas, as on Meego or iOS7, but an Win95-style close button. While welcome, many of these have been on rival platforms since their inception.
Much of the delay has to do with the anarchy bequeathed to Microsoft by Steven Sinofsky's reign. His three platform "unification" strategy was brave and plausible – but Sinofsky failed to unify the developer APIs behind the scenes.
Instead of Windows being a "write-once, run-anywhere" API able to challenge iOS and Android on mobile – a third ecosystem – Microsoft presented developers with three quite different and incompatible APIs. This wilful fragmentation made Microsoft's job much more difficult than it would have been.
Developers this year have had a choice of iOS, Official Android, unofficial Android, Amazondroid and BB10, alongside Windows 8, Windows RT, and Windows Phone. Yes, something that has sold more poorly than BB10 actually exists: step forward Windows RT, with fewer than a million.
Cheer up. At least he's gone. (Microsoft's Steve Sinofsky with his beloved Surface tablet)
The delay allows Microsoft to get two of these platforms in sync. Since Windows Phone is more mature than RT, development of the less mature RT is ramped up while Windows Phone is allowed to take a breather. One rumour posits that Microsoft is aiming for 77 per cent "API unity" between Windows Phone and RT for the Windows 8.1 release.
Quite why Windows Phone users should take priority behind RT, a basketcase of a platform which is likely to become redundant as phones grow, deserves such special treatment is a mystery.
I presume it's internal politics that keeps RT alive - but your answers are most welcome. ®


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So I am trying to purchase VS2010 for home use, side projects, etc…I google VS2010 price and click on the first "relevant" result: http://www.microsoft.com/visualstudio/en-us/products/2010-editions/professional
And click the "BUY NOW" link which opens:
Great $549 for VS2010, way to expensive but within the budget. So click on the link to purchase and this is what I am presented:
$799.00? WTF? But wait, full version $549.00 (my only option, really). And what do I see in the cart?
Tags: rant
Mono = free
Free yourself from Intellisense. The Matrx is about one thing - control.
Yeah, I know...mono is really beginning to take hold. I have been watching the monodroid project and some other mono tools and they look promising.
I ended up using VS2010 express for a project I am doing and it's working as a short term solution. I am actually impressed with VS2010 express...it's really the same shell as the regular VS2010, just no plugins - so there is no resharper, which sucks. Interesting that I was able to open my all my existing VS2010 solutions with express, that's not something you could do with the previous versions if I recall correctly.
Wow. Honestly, I'd never buy VS out of pocket at that price.
That is way too much money.
Stick to Express for side projects
I'm waiting for Jetbrains to do an IDE at some point, I'm a resharper fan
That said, did you ever figure that one out - that is crazy !
Nope, I think it was just a bug or something...I am more than surprised with express. I truly hated the earlier versions because they were so different from the _real_ VS. Only bummer is no plugins, so no resharper, etc.
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Admissions Communication and Data Manager
All StaffAdmissions
Contact Information
Phone: 724-458-2184
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
By this time you have probably heard an awful lot about how the college decision is the biggest decision you've made thus far in your life. While this may be true, I don't think that anxiety is the best response to such a weighty decision. This – the college search – is a time for celebration in your life! As you find a home for your upcoming undergraduate years, celebrate the calling of God which you are discovering in your life. That calling is a unique, irreplaceable component of your identity: seek a school where your calling will be embraced and enriched. Whether or not that school turns out to be Grove City College, we are delighted and honored to assist you throughout this process.
More than anything, remember that there isn't a wrong choice. The Lord is faithful to provide, and He shall bring you to the perfect institution for you. Take heart and approach the college search with confidence. He that goes before you has an inescapable love and a perfect plan for you!
About Me
Born and bred in Minnesota, spent a few years in Asheville, N.C., went to high school in Charlotte, N.C., and, after coming to Grove City in 2011, I never really left. During my time at Grove City College, I learned that God's plans were greater than my own – greater in every way imaginable. I learned the beauties of organic chemistry, of philosophy, of literature, of vector calculus - but most importantly, I learned a love of neighbor and a care for creation.
St. Paul, Minn.
Favorite Scripture
But Ruth said: "Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go; and where you live, I will live; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me." - Ruth 1:16-17
Favorite College Memory
When Dr. Douglas Browne retired in the spring of 2014, after conducting the Touring Choir for 33 years, almost 300 alumni of the Touring Choir came back to campus to sing one last concert together under his direction. Singing alongside those hundreds of alumni was the most beautiful musical experience I'll likely ever have – much less the most cherished memory I have of my time at Grove City College.
Favorite Activity around Town
Walking or running through town and out on country roads – especially with a friend!
Literature, poetry, music (piano/choral), tennis, distance running, and the occasional nap.


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Hells Hills Trail Run
50mile . 50km . 25km . 10km
April 4, 2020
This event hosts a deceivingly tough course, at a really easy to get to venue. With 3 loops for the 50mile course, 2 for the 50k, and one fun loop for the 25K and 10K races. If you're fast, come test yourself against the best trail runners in the country.
If you are looking for your first trail run or to go further than ever before, come out and enjoy this beautiful course with stream crossings, pine trees, hill country flowers, and a whole lot of fun passionate folks waiting to help you reach your goal. For many, this long-standing event has become an annual occurrence that has really become a reunion of friends. We'll be out all weekend and in no hurry to leave. Especially if the wildflowers are popping.


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etsy love: kjoo
in the interest of spreading the handmade love, i'm starting a little feature here on bits and bobbins which shows off what i think are some amazing goods made by amazing artists, designers, and makers on the inimitable handmade marketplace, etsy.com. it's all about what catches *my* eye, anything from clothing and wearables to homewares. i'll show you a few pieces from each seller's shop and give you a teensy little bit of info about the artist and their wares, linking back to their etsy shops and items.
first up is kjoo, aka maria, a graphic designer and fiber jewelry maker who hails from portugal. i first became aware of her via her flickr. i have been a fan of her work for some time, and i've actually written about her here before, over a year and a half ago, but her work delights me so that i feel like she deserves repeat mention.
maria's work shows a finely honed sense and sensitivity to color and texture. unusual colorways, skilled, steady handiwork in the realms of hand-stitching, felting and crochet, and a studied skill in marrying various found materials makes for a deliciously amorphous, experimental, organic feel to her whole body of work. her work is transcendent, her pieces are akin to wearable art.
a good pal of mine here in san francisco is a big fan of maria's work and has several of her one-ofa-kind pieces in her jewelry collection, so i can also attest to their beauty in the flesh. they have a soft tactile look and feel on sights, and you can palpably sense the work and trained eye that fashioned them.
the piece below is one of my favorites.
more kjoo lovliness here. viva, etsy!


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Hikvision y Dahua han subido un puesto en la lista Top Security 50 de Asmag del 2013, ocupando ahora los puestos 4 y 9 respectivamente.
Hikvision ha crecido un 35.6% en ventas el 2012:
"We are truly honoured to be recognised by Security 50 once again. This noteworthy achievement proves Hikvision's continuous efforts in both R&D innovation and quality control for our entire product portfolio," said Polo Cai, Vice President at Hikvision. "Hikvision will continue focusing our energies towards high-quality products and solutions for our customers. This includes in-depth local services that maintain a leading position in the global market and shape a new overall image of the Chinese manufacturing."
Press release: http://www.hikvision.com/en/Press-Release-details.asp?id=2593
Dahua creció un 60.1%:
"In the latest 2013 a&s Security 50 ranking 9th place, Dahua Technology moves one place forward to the 9th. According to a&s Security 50 report, Dahua sustained double-digit revenue growth in 2012 despite the uncertain global market. Dahua has achieved 60% growth in 2012 which is the highest in Asia-based companies and the third highest among all on the list."
Press release: http://www.dahuasecurity.com/news/dahua-advances-to-the-9th-place-in-2013-as-security-50-ranking-101.html


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Ransom32 currently targets Windows but can easily be repackaged to affect Mac and Linux operating systems as it is based on JavaScript. It uses the NW.js (formerly node-webkit) framework designed for web and desktop applications to infect victims and spreads via spam containing a malicious compressed 32 MB RAR file. Once a system is infected, Ransom32 creates a shortcut named "ChromeService" in the Startup folder to maintain persistence. After using Tor to establish a connection to its C2 server, it exchanges keys, encrypts the victim's files using AES-128, and displays a ransom note. Ransom32 is part of a "ransomware-as-a-service" campaign and its creators offer customized versions for a 25 percent cut of the profits.
- Emsisoft provides more information about Ransom32, found here.
- The NJCCIC is not aware of any decryption tools available for Ransom32.