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I saw a concert on the second night of my solo trip to Paris.I wandered through the 11e arrondissement to find the Café de la Danse, a small venue behind a tiny door off what seemed like an alley, off another, just wider cobblestone alley-street blocks from the Bastille. I fumbled my words buying my ticket and, plunged suddenly into the glowing red music hall darkroom, fumbled everything else looking for a beer then a seat.
William Fitzsimmons made his way, alone, to the stage with only a guitar. There was a black metal folding chair for him to sit on, and he wore a plaid shirt and a black stocking cap. His beard was enormous. I'd heard maybe two of his songs, and it was easy for me to believe we were the only two Americans in that huge room. If not easy, then comforting. Being alone in Paris, that unfamiliar place wasn't scary, per se, but it was exhausting. A short lifetime of dreams built up that trip in my mind, and the comedown was quicker than I imagined.
All I remember of the concert is what I wrote afterward. I remember taking my first look at Fitzsimmons, hearing the first notes he sang, and not understanding how a man who looked like that — talked like that, even — could sing so sweetly and with such sadness. I remember that between songs, he seemed like an asshole, but looking back, that was part of the fun.
He'd opened for another band, and I left midway through their set. When I walked out the door, it was well past 10 but barely dusk. The air probably didn't smell like funnel cake, but it's what I'm remembering. A group of street dancers stopped me in my tracks before I found my train and headed back to the 8 e and my hotel room, which opened with a big gold key kept at the front desk. Everything was strange. I made it back to Place Vendôme, a few blocks from my hotel, before the Eiffel Tower started to glimmer. I watched it twice that night.
I felt so… I don't even know how I felt.
That night was so magical, and I don't have a clue why.
Tonight is more of my full circle, this ring I'm living out, though I wonder if I'm making too much of all that. Tonight, I walked in to the Old Town School of Folk music alone, with two tickets. John bought them but didn't want to go with me in the end. And I decided I'd rather sit by myself.
That building is so full of memories, and it makes me so profoundly sad to go inside, despite the beautiful, wonderful music that happens there. Where Paris' strangeness had an exhausting je ne sais quoi, Lincoln Square's sameness mostly isn't even vaguely soothing; the familiarity of the haunts I've loved for so long is breeding a stale contempt that I hope will fade as I struggle out of this emotional black hole.
Tonight, Fitzsimmons headlined; a band called Slow Runner opened for him. The sound was sublime — the Freelance Whales' hipster lilt, Ben Folds Five's bass, drums, piano and vocals, and an 8-bit Nintendo aesthetic — and the songs made me laugh and broke my heart, with only measures separating the two. Only the best music can do that. I bought an album after their set, and a friend from Twitter recognized me from my photo and came to say hello while I waited in line.
But where they inspired tears, the rest of the show fell flat. The same bearded man I saw in Paris took the stage in Chicago, surrounded by a full band and looking out at an English-speaking audience full of kids whose faces I saw, some I even recognized, who had heard and comprehended every joke in his charming-asshole book before, and knew his song lyrics by heart. He stood at the microphone with the guitar strapped to him, and it all felt false. This wasn't real. I didn't go to the Old Town School expecting Café de la Danse, but… I don't even know what I expected.
I left after his third song and came home to my laptop, my familiar bed, my sweet tuxedo kitten.
Every night in Paris, I stayed up until 3 or 4 a.m. writing, writing, writing. Everything seemed significant, its strangeness worth documenting completely. Tonight, I'll fall asleep before midnight with Emaline mewing outside the door, pawing at the old wood. And this doesn't disappoint me, but I do want that magic back. Whether I find it down another cobblestone alley-street in a music-hall darkroom, or somewhere else entirely.


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Photographs are beautiful, sentimental and cherished reminders of a life fully lived. A first kiss between a groom and his bride. A portrait of a mother and father embracing their new child. A close up of a new baby's soft skin, lips and toes. As we grow older and our memories slowly fade, we have these photographs to remind us of the crisp details once again!
Wedding collections start at $3000. Portrait collections start at $700.


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Get the information you need! Tell us a little about your organization:
Panorama Pro is the answer for you!Learn About Panorama Pro Scroll down to learn how Panorama helps
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Panorama is the online fundraising platform that provides you with all the solutions you need in one place. Integrated online fundraising, donor management, and volunteer tools are available to you when you need them. Take advantage of all Panorama has to offer to empower your organization to grow.
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Our team of fundraising experts will help you get started quickly and easily. We offer online resources, exclusive customer webinars, videos, best practices, guidance, one-on-one-training, and more. Our support team is dedicated to helping you reach and exceed your fundraising goals with unlimited access to support.
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Vancouver, BC - November 22-25, 2019
Friday, November 22, 2019 to Monday, November 25, 2019
Four Points by Sheraton Vancouver Airport
Reviews for our Certification Training Program
The Grief Recovery Method is fantastic! Extremely effective! I am incredibly thrilled to get my new GRM Family! Supportive line! In just 4 days, not only we learned a lot of new tools and method, but also we connected that we all found the same way that we have known each other long. It was a true blessing was The loss graph and relationship graph were unique tools! I have been given misinformation in my entire life, and NOW I learn how to use these tools to deal with any future losses. For myself, family, friends, community, and the world. And last not the least, my words are not enough how to thank Susan Dindinger for her passion and dedication to teaching, supporting, and genuinely connecting to each one of us. I'm thankful for this fantastic opportunity. I strongly challenge everyone to join this program to all those out there suffering from any loss.08/02/2019
The Grief Recovery Method really works! It's almost magical, the energy and lightness that comes after working through the process. I'm so grateful for this program and am so excited to start paying it forward by sharing these tools with my circle of influence!08/01/2019
This is the real deal. I have had so much loss in my life. I thought I had recovered as I had gone through counseling and completed the work. Was I ever wrong. As I was working through the class I discovered I had so much grief that I had suppressed. It was difficult, painful, intense, and frustrating. The frustration that I thought I had recovered from my loss... and finding out I hadn't recovered. At the same time it was amazing to be able to heal within the 4 day training. To heal and identify the emotions behind my pain. It was deliberating. What an incredible amazing experience. Thank you. I recommend this class to everyone that is grieving. I wish it was taught in high school.07/31/2019
The Grief Recovery Method Specialist training was an an amazing experience. It gave me the tools to be able to help many grievers in the future. My instructor and the whole weekend was inspiring. It all validated even more that this is what I should be doing with my life.07/31/2019
For anyone who may be feeling fear or indecision about taking the GRM Certification, I say, go for it! I always felt valued and welcome in the classroom. Susan Dindinger was my instructor and was so clear in teaching the method, and compassionate in taking me through the process myself. I am so glad I signed up!07/31/2019
The training was so helpful to me in listening to and offering feeling words- something many people struggle with . I loved that my trainer was on same level playing field as the rest of us making her easy to relate to and understand.07/31/2019


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Back to a slow trickle post Switch Launch. Ghost Recon Wildlands comes out on Tuesday though! Be sure to check out Robert's beta impressions here.
|March 7
|Atelier Firis: The Alchemist and the Mysterious Journey
|Win, PS4, PSVita
|LEGO Worlds
|Win, PS4, XBO
|Nier Automata
|Tom Clancey's Ghost Recon Wildlands
|Win, PS4, XBO
This post originally appeared on RoguesPortal.com.


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Number of days: 11Country/City: Czech Republic/Prgue, Karlovy Vary; Austria/Vienna; Hungary/Budapest.
With this 10 day tour, you will get an experience of magnificent art and inspiring music of "OLD - World" cities of Europe. You will be accommodated in three-star hotel and travel with the second class train.
1st day: Arrival in Prague. Meeting at the airport and transfer (option). Our comfortable car will meet you at the airport or railway station and bring you to the hotel. In the evening, we pick you up for a welcome Folk show Dinner, where you will discover the atmosphere of original Czech, Moravian and Slovak Folklore. Overnight in Prague.
2nd day: Prague City Tour. After breakfast, our bus will pick you up at the hotel for Prague City Tour. You will see Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George Monastery and Golden Lane, the romantic Nerudova Lane, Lesser Town with its famous and marvelous palaces and medieval Charles Bridge (Karluv Most), Old Town Square surrounded by Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock, Tyn and St. Nicholas Churches, from Old Town Square, we continue our tour to Wenceslas Square with St. Wenceslas statue. Overnight in Prague.
3rd day: Karlovy Vary. After you have breakfast at the hotel, our bus takes you through the picturesque West Bohemian countryside to Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad) which situated in a beautiful wooded valley. First you visit the glass exhibition at Moser factory and then we visit world famous spa, known especially for its 12 thermal springs and both historical and modern colonnades. In addition to the curative waters you can also have delicious local wafers and traditional Becher liqueur produced from herbs. Overnight in Prague.
4th day: Prague at leisure. Today you will have the full day to explore on your own. Your own Prague's experience. Overnight in Prague.
5th day: Prague-Vienna by train. We takes you to a wonderful voyage from Prague to Vienna by train. In the evening, we invites you to a welcome dinner on boat on Dunabe. On a boat you will experience a true "Viennese Evening" with a cosy wine-tavern atmosphere, enjoy a splendid Heurigen Buffet and join in singing and swaying to Viennese melodies. Overnight in Vienna.
6th day: Vienna Grand City Tour. After you have breakfast, we pick you up and drive you around Vienna's Ringstrasse, a leafy boulevard around the heart of the city and the location of many impressive buildings, for example the State Opera House, the Hofburg (Imperial Palace), the Museums of Fine Arts and Natural History, the Parlament, the Burgtheater, the City Hall and the University. The tour then continues to Schonbrunn Palace, the magnificent summer residence of the Hapsburg family lived e.g. Maria Teresia, where the highlight is a guided tour through the imperial apartments. A stop is also made at Belvedere Palace, the former summer residence of Prince Eugen, where the gardens offer a splendid view over the Vienna skyline. Our guide will show you the most interesting and famous places of Vienna. Overnight in Vienna.
7th day: Vienna at leisure. Today you will have the full day to explore on your own. Overnight in Vienna.
8th day: Vienna - Budapest by train. We take you to the train station, from where you will have a wonderful journey to Budapest. In the evening, we will pick you up at the hotel and invite you to the typical hungarien tavern for dinner. Overnight in Budapest.
9th day: Budapest Grand City Tour After your breakfast we pick you up at the hotel and take you through beautiful Budapest., you will visit the impressive neo-gotic house of Parliament (home of the holy hungarian crown) with guidance through the Splendid Boardrooms and Impressive Staircases. You cross the Danube on the Margaret-bridge (Margaret island) and drive to the Royal castle on the Buda side, where you visit the Fishermens' bastion and the Matthias church. After the Citadel you cross Elisabet -bridge and drive the City-park towards Heroes' sqare. Passing by the Opera and St Stephen's basilica. Overnight in Budapest.
10 day: Budapest at leisure. Today you will have the full day to explore on your own. Overnight in Budapest.
11 day: Departure day.
Price includes:
Price excludes:
Copyright © 1999-2019 ITBC™ - European Tour Operator


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More Science on Procrastination
Understanding Procrastination Through Netflix, Cheeseburgers, and Present Bias
How to Beat a Polygraph
Lie-detector tests are not admissible in court, and here are some reasons why.
When Breaking Up Means Living With Your Ex
Apparently, in California, courts cannot force one spouse to leave the residence.
Burnout and How to Deal With It
I know we all had busy Octobers, and now the holidays are coming up. Make sure to stay well, mentally and physically.
Regular Exercise Halves Your Chance of Catching a Cold
Oh man, add something else to my to-do list!
Invasion of Privacy
This guy took a spam email and tracked down the sender's social security number, phone number, a picture of his house, the school where his wife teaches and more. Be aware of all the information that can be found about people these days!
Breakup Data
Someone scanned over 10,000 facebook status-updates and graphed when people broke up. I think it somewhat syncs up with our peak busy times.
Our Brain's Negative Bias: Why our brains are more highly attuned to negative news
"a very specific ratio exists between the amount of positivity and negativity required to make married life satisfying to both partners. That magic ratio is five to one. As long as there was five times as much positive feeling and interaction between husband and wife as there was negative, researchers found, the marriage was likely to be stable over time. In contrast, those couples who were heading for divorce were doing far too little on the positive side to compensate for the growing negativity between them."
7 Principles for Dealing with Haters
Russia Goes After 1 Guy, Worldwide Spam Drops By 1/5
After Russian authorities started an investigation into alleged spammaster Igor A. Gusev, worldwide spam has dropped by a sustained one-fifth.


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Metered parking is available in the front of the building and along Court Street. There is also a parking ramp in the corner of Linn Street and Burlington Street (1st hour is free, $1/hour after that).
Please use the "Linn Street Professional Offices" entrance. (There is an adjacent larger entrance with the same address but that is for the apartments above.) If the door does not say Professional Offices, go one door to your left (as you face the building). The correct door is right by RVAP.
There is a small waiting area to the right as you come in the entrance for professional offices. Please have a seat there. I will come get you at your appointment time. If you arrive a bit late, call or text me to let me know you are here.
The door is locked evenings and week-ends. Call or text me when you get there so I can let you in. If I don't respond right away, it may be that I am finishing up a session with a client.


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Vivienne Benesch
As an actor, director, producer and teacher Vivienne Benesch has had the great fortune to collaborate with exceptional theater artists of many generations on all sides of the table. She is in her eleventh season as artistic director of the renowned Chautauqua Theater Company which also boasts a conservatory program that has become one of the premiere summer destinations in the nation for emerging theatre artists. As a director, Benesch has worked at Chautauqua, PlayMakers Rep, Shakespeare Theater of NJ, Trinity Rep, NYU's Graduate Acting Program and at Juilliard where she has been a project director for the last eight years. Vivienne has worked extensively as an actress on and Off-Broadway, in film and television and at many of the country's most celebrated theatres. She received an OBIE Award, which honors achievement in Off-Broadway theater, and has worked alongside Gene Wilder, Maggie Smith and Blythe Danner among many others. She has recently served as a visiting faculty member at NYU, Brown-Trinity and UNC Chapel Hill's MFA training programs. For five years Vivienne served as chair of the theater panel for the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (now YoungArts.)


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Yesterday, Jenny Simpson took the Silver in the women's 1500m race at the 2013 IAAF World Championships in Moscow. With this win, Simpson has become the most decorated American woman in the 1500m event at the World Championships. I'm absolutely thrilled to bring another medal home to all of the people that have supported me throughout my career. The field today was as strong as any I've been a part of and I'm proud to have risen to the top. It will take time for the true significance of this effort to really hit me," says Jenny Simpson.
This USA athlete is also a part of Team New Balance. She signed a multi-year endorsement contract upon her graduation from the University of Colorado in 2009. Simpson owns the American record in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at 9:12.50. Jenny has also earned spots on two U.S. Olympic Teams, four world teams and is a seven-time All-American and 12-time All-Big 12 honoree. Jenny won four NCAA titles and two national steeplechase titles. In the 1500m event, Simpson wore the New Balance MD800v3 spikes. The 800v3 will release November 2013 at $120.
If you want information on the team visit New Balance. Stay here at Sneaker Report for more from the IAAF World Championships in Moscow.
RELATED: FIRST LOOK: New Balance 1080 v3
RELATED: FIRST LOOK: New Balance MT10 v2


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What's New with the iPhone 4S?
As always, Apple has released a beautifully designed product that's absolutely packed with superb features. But covering each and every one of those features — for once — isn't the hard part about reviewing the latest model of iPhone. The difficulty here is in reviewing the iPhone 4S hardware, rather than the newly released iOS 5 operating system.
Rather coincidentally, this problem actually highlights one of the iPhone 4S's most impressive features. Its hardware is tied so tightly to the latest version of iOS that it's almost impossible to see where one begins, and the other finishes. It's hard to criticise such a well-matched combination of hardware and software, and this alone lifts the iPhone 4S onto the shoulders of most other touch-screen smartphones out there.
But there are still some new iPhone 4S hardware features we can look at.
8-Megapixel Camera
The iPhone 4S has upgraded cameras. Yep, it's not easy to get too excited about that, right?
They work very well, of course, managing to record 1080p high-def video at 30 frames-per-second, and with a crisp, clean capture that would give a decent digital camcorder a run for its money. But you're unlikely to opt for the expensive iPhone 4S option just because of a camera, and we certainly wouldn't advise that you do.
To be quite blunt, the digital camera(s) have never been a deal breaker when it comes to choosing an iPhone, and the 4S doesn't change that. The iPhone 4 camera options were a more significant update, given the addition of a forward-facing option. This is still present in the new handset, and it's great to see that iOS 5 ties in the gyroscopic sensor for image stabilization and the new filters enliven the colors and light levels. This certainly helps you to cheer for the iPhone 4S in terms of camera quality, even if you weren't especially considering the camera quality as a make-or-break factor.
It's a beautiful picture from the 4S, of that there's absolutely no question, but iPhone 4 users shouldn't rush to the Apple Store based on this alone.
A5 Processor
The introduction of the A5 processor in the iPhone 4S has been shouted from the rooftops, and there's no denying that the new device is super-fast. At least, we have to assume it's super-fast. Recording high-def video in real-time must take some processing oomph, and everything — absolutely everything — you do is so slick you could believe the iPhone 4S had anticipated what you were planning and got itself ready before you even touched the screen. That's thanks to its new power processor (Apple tells us) and in the coming months and years we'll undoubtedly be thankful that its brain pan enjoyed a digital steroid injection.
But appreciating an increase in processing power, right off the bat, is difficult. No developer in their right mind is going to make games and apps solely for the iPhone 4S. Not for a good long while, anyway. We may see enhancements within apps that boost performance for iPhone 4S users, but at the time of writing there was little we could do to really push the processor and suitably amaze ourselves.
It's there, we've no doubt, but once again it's hard to recommend your iPhone 4 be retired for the 4S launch day based on the A5 chip.
Design and Style
For those who already own an iPhone 4, there's good news and bad regarding the design of the 4S. It's in the same case as the iPhone 4, with the same screen as its predecessor, so without the silvery writing on the back you'd be hard pushed to know which was which.
The benefit is that you don't need to buy a new case if you do upgrade, and that's a small but important reason to be thankful. Of course, we also have to ask whether the iPhone 4S needed an outer redesign, considering its predecessor is the catwalk model of the smartphone world already. Aesthetic changes for the sake of change would have a negative impact on the iPhone 4S, so we're glad to see Apple hasn't given in to that particular temptation.
The flat back and very touchable glass screen are as desirable as ever, and the Retina display looks just as sweet under high ambient brightness. So the 4S is highly recommended in terms of design and sheer good looks, but only because the previous model was already so well turned out.
It has verged on torture writing about the iPhone 4S for this long without mentioning Siri. The new voice-activated assistant is, as previously stumbled over, part of the iOS 5 update, and not really a handset feature. But as it's only available on the iPhone 4S, it demands a mention. In fact, it's the primary reason to upgrade, and it presents a damn good argument.
Quite literally, in fact. You might talk to inanimate objects all the time, but iPhone 4S owners now have one that can — and will — answer them. Replacing the old voice controls, Siri activates when you hold down the Home button for a couple of seconds, or when you hold the device up to your ear when not on a call.
And then you tell it what you want. No specific commands or keywords. Just talk to it. During our test (a review model, with "James" entered as a contact), we said "Schedule a meeting with James on Saturday the fifteenth." Siri did so, and then asked us what time to make the meeting, or whether it should be an all day appointment. Impressed, we tested again, only this time trying to trip poor Siri up.
"Will you schedule a meeting for me with James on the fourteenth. No, make that Saturday." Amazingly, Siri pointed out that we already had a meeting with James slated for Saturday, and asked if we still wanted to add this one. After that, we were simply too speechless to try to trick Siri again.
Up until this point the decision about an upgrade had been quite easy, but the voice recognition confused matters distressingly well. Siri, alone, is worth an upgrade or a switch from any other smartphone to the iPhone 4S.
Time to Upgrade
There aren't actually all that many factors that should determine your decision to adopt the iPhone 4S.
If you're still on the third generation of iPhone, then the iPhone 4S comes highly recommended and you should pick one up as soon as (or even just before) you can justify the upgrade cost. The pressure is off for existing iPhone 4 users, or anyone who has adopted a powerful smartphone from another manufacturer, however.
The hardware updates are great, but they're also few. Siri is a game changer, though. The competition will be rushing to catch up, but by then Siri is likely to be the new techno-superstar of the mobile world, and won't easily be usurped. If you're chomping at the bit to have a new electronic friend to talk to, don't strain yourself resisting the temptation. You won't be sorry that you shelled out for the iPhone 4S.
- Apple; iPhone 4S Features: http://www.apple.com/iphone/features/
This post is part of the series: The iPhone 4S
- iPhone 4S Hands-On Review
- Setting Up Your New iPhone 4S
- Tips and Tricks for the iPhone 4S
- Android vs. iPhone 4S


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British style High Tea
Send to friend
Date:Tuesday, 11 September, 2012 - 15:00 - 17:00
Venue:Terrace Patio, The Grand Hyatt
Cost:36,000 KRW per person
Join us for a delightful British high tea on the peaceful terrace of the Grand Hyatt overlooking the Han river. We shall be celebrating the marvellous achievements of Team GB throughout the London Olympics; wear something GOLD!
Price includes tea, coffee & juice, cucumber, smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise & roast beef horseradish sandwiches, followed by scones with CLOTTED cream, lemon curd tart, fruit cake. You won't need dinner later!!!
Please RSVP below to reserve your place.


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The Health Benefits of Fall Foods/
Fall foods offer an abundance nutrients and add new seasonal variety. Here are 3 foods to include in your Fall cooking and menu planningRead More
Fall foods offer an abundance nutrients and add new seasonal variety. Here are 3 foods to include in your Fall cooking and menu planningRead More
I love this lentil soup! It's hearty for those cold nights, yet healthy. And so quick & easy to make.Read More
Combining quinoa and black beans makes an exceptionally healthy vegetarian entrée or side dish that keeps you feeling full longer.Read More
Did you know... 1/3 of Americans havehigh blood pressure and another 1/3 have pre-hypertension? The good news is, you can control it!Read More
Did you know 80% of heart disease and stroke events are preventable? Read more to learn what you can do to prevent heart disease.Read More
Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and potassium and is a good source of fiber and the antioxidant, beta-carotene. Kale is rich in vitamin K, antioxidants and fiber. Combine the pumpkin and kale for a power food mixture that tastes great with your favorite whole grain pasta.
Ingredients: PRINT RECIPE
8 oz. rigatoni pasta
1 teaspoon olive oil
½ medium onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pinched dried red pepper flakes
1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms (5-6 medium mushrooms)
½ bunch Lucinato kale, stems removed and roughly chopped
¼ cup dry white wine or low sodium vegetable broth
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
½ (15 oz.) can pumpkin (no sugar or spices added)
1 egg
1 cup low fat ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
¼ cup (1oz.) shredded Parmesan cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350*F.
2. Bring a large pot of to boil. Add salt and pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside in a colander.
3. In the meantime, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook about 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and kale; cook 5-6 minutes or until slightly cooked down. Add wine and cook an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir in basil, season with salt and pepper and turn off heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, egg, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, kale mixture and cooked pasta. Stir until combined and season with salt and pepper
5. Coat an 8 X 8-inch glass pan with oil. Pour pasta-pumpkin mixture into pan. Spread evenly and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake 25minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm.
Makes 4 1-cup servings. PRINT RECIPE
No doubt you've heard many times that Americans get too much salt, too much sugar, and too much saturated fat in our diets. But what about those important nutrients women don't get enough of? Calcium and vitamin D are commonly talked about, but one nutrient that doesn't get as much attention is potassium. Many women ask, "Can't I get that from my multivitamin?" The answer is no, it isn't added to most multivitamins for women and the research shows we're much better off getting it from food, not a supplement, because the form of potassium that's in fruits and vegetables is different than what is in supplements (potassium chloride) and our bodies better utilize the potassium in food.
Potassium is a mineral found primarily in fruits, vegetables and dairy foods. It has been shown to help lower blood pressure in people who have hypertension and can help blunt the effects of a high sodium diet, which worsens high blood pressure. Potassium also makes blood vessels less stiff and helps decrease the risk of stroke and heart disease.
For athletes (adults and teens), potassium is important for fluid and electrolyte balance after a hard workout or sporting event and can help prevent muscle cramps and spasms. Since food works better than a supplement, skip the sports drink and instead combine a couple high potassium foods from my FREE list of high potassium foods* (see below for details).
A deficiency in potassium can cause fatigue, insomnia, depression, muscular weakness and heart and circulation problems. If you suffer from muscle cramps or those very painful, toe-crossing cramps in your feet, make sure you're getting enough potassium and magnesium to help prevent cramping.
Most adults need 4,700mg of potassium per day, according to the National Academy of Medicine (except if you have kidney problems, then you may need to avoid eating high potassium foods). However, women only get an average of 2300mg per day, or just about half of what they need. Citrus fruits, bananas, cantaloupe, and apricots are a good source of potassium, while dark leafy greens, beans, squash and tomatoes are some vegetables with a fair bit of potassium (potatoes too if you eat the skin).
For my complete list of potassium-rich foods showing the specific potassium content and including dairy and other foods high in potassium, send a request to firstname.lastname@example.com and I'll gladly send you a FREE copy!
Eating a daily serving of oats, along with other high soluble fiber foods, can help to control cholesterol. Try this savory oat recipe for a change and variety.Read More
Some believe that New Year's Resolutions are a waste of time. But in fact, experts say the very act of making resolutions improves your odds of success. The key is having strategies to make your resolutions stick.Read More
Recently one of my clients asked me, "What are the most important vegetables I need to include in my diet?" She happens to be a woman who hates most vegetables and really struggles to eat them. Her question prompted me to research exactly which 10 vegetables Irecommend she (and every woman over 45) eat regularly.Read More
Personalized nutrition for women over 45. Separating nutrition facts from fiction to help women improve metabolism, menopause, weight, and high blood sugar.
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We know berries are good for us, but did you know they're really important for boosting brain health and improving memory? Here are 5 ways berries may be working to boost memory and prevent memory loss.
Berries are a brain-healthy food that have been shown to slow or prevent cognitive decline. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits of berries make them an important brain food to eat regularly.
This salad is rich in antioxidants that improve brain health and help prevent memory loss and cognitive decline when eaten almost daily. Dark leafy greens also help prevent heart disease when eaten at least 3 times per week. Enjoy!
Memory Loss is the #1 fear of people over 55. The good news is, there are many action steps you can take now to prevent memory loss, Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. These are 5 Pillars…
A wonderful, hearty soup that provides heart-healthy Mediterranean foods. It's a perfect meal for a Meatless Monday!
This salad is full of vibrant colors – dark green, orange and red – providing a wide variety of antioxidants, along with protein-rich, heart-healthy pumpkin seeds.
Spaghetti squash is a fabulous substitute for regular pasta because it's full of vitamins and minerals, gluten -free and lower in calories with just 45 calories/cup.
Fall foods offer an abundance nutrients and add new seasonal variety. Here are 3 foods to include in your Fall cooking and menu planning
I'm a believer that all foods can be included, in a healthy, balanced diet, in moderation. I wouldn't eat these bars every day, they're a nice change from brownies, and a great dessert to bring to a get-together, especially in the Fall!
** Terms of Use** Copyright ©2015 Jill West Nutrition Consulting **


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Odds and Ends/
Look at me! I'm taking over the internet, one space at a time.
The wise and beautiful ladies over at Savvy Source have asked me to start a conversation group at their place. And since I am a people pleaser, I was pleased to oblige.
Hence, a redneck chatroom all of my own.
Except I have no friends over there to chat with. (It's like junior high all over again except this time no one can stuff me in a locker or pin a 'Kick Me, I'm a Loser' sign on my back.)
So if you feel the need for a little redneck speed (heh...I so need some caffeine this morning), hop on over there and start chatting with me. Ask me anything. Share your knowledge. Mock me. It's our special space. Away from my husband's prying eyes. Heh.
You won't regret it.
Well okay, you might, but isn't that half the fun?
Can't get enough of me? Watch my latest CBC Connect With Mark Kelley television segment and learn how not only am I a parental dumbass but they pay me to talk about it on NATIONAL television! It's my husband's worse nightmare come to fruition!!!


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How much of a hand do you have in the design of a space when you first open a restaurant?
I have a hand in every aspect, from the design of the kitchen, to the whole dining room. I mean, Jacques Grange had never done a restaurant before in his life. He mostly did residences, so The Mark was really his first project. When he built this, he said, 'What do you need? How many tables? How many chairs? How many bars? What kind of texture are you looking for, etc.' So you get involved. After building so many restaurants, I feel like I've become a first-hand designer, because I was involved in every aspect of it.
So it's more like you're a creative director now than a chef?
Half and half. I'm actually a third; the business is important too. A lot of chef's think, 'Okay, I build a restaurant for cooking my food, and I do my thing.' The fact is, you have to think about paying rent, and paying the employees. It's a business in the end. I do a couple of hours a day in the office to make sure the business is good, and that we have income and people come back. Then we have to keep up the decor and the upkeep of the place. And then the food has to be great. That's the third thing that is very important. You try to create cravings to make people come back. You come back to ABC Kitchen for, I'm sure, two or three dishes, and then it attracts you. We have people at The Mark that come five times a week. It becomes their living room. I think we're all creatures of habit. If you can create something that people have cravings for, they'll come back – even if it's for the flowers or the chairs.
Originally, what struck you about Asian cuisine? When did you know you wanted to integrate it into your food most of the time?
I was always fascinated by traveling and by spices and things. I started cooking way before you guys were born – 1973. I did five or six years in France, and I was always using spices, but I didn't know where they came from. I was using black pepper, which doesn't grow in France. I was using nutmeg, star anise, and mace, but I never knew where they grew or how they grew. I wanted to go to the source of where the spices were coming from. So in 1980, I went to Bangkok. I had an opportunity; I became a chef at the restaurant in the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok. I was twenty-three, and it changed my life. At the time, no one was using ginger, lemongrass, chilies, or galangal, so I was like, 'My God, this is amazing.' And most of the spices you would find in Europe were dry. In 1980 you couldn't find fresh ginger, fresh peppercorn, fresh lime leaf, and chili.
What do you think when people use the word fusion?
I think it's been a little bastardized, but it's a normal path. There is no kitchen without a piece of ginger now. Even Italians who are very stuck to everything have ginger in their kitchens. The world has become one. Everybody travels and you can have everything everywhere. I think we are fusions. Half Dutch, half French; everybody is from somewhere. Everyone is a mix today, and I think to mix food is totally logical.
Is there a trend in the New York restaurant scene that you're not a fan of?
I'm not a fan of, and have never followed, that new molecular stuff – using a lot of chemicals. When it was the hottest thing around, I went in the polar opposite direction. I went to farm-to-table, to ABC Kitchen. I couldn't cook with those gels and all of the different chemicals that people are using. I think food as a science is not for me. Food for nutrition, food for well-being, food for nurturing your soul – yes. If I eat a shrimp, I want it to look like a shrimp. I don't want my shrimp to look like a noodle. I'm a purist when it comes to food; I really want the product to be the product. If it's an all-organic chicken, you can season it with a little bit of licorice or something, and you create a new chicken, instead of chicken looking like a crab. I think creating a new flavor or a new sensation is good.
I prefer to waste my time looking for the best fisherman. A lot of people don't know about fish, and have big boats that leave on Monday and come back Friday. Some of the fish that was caught on Monday has already been on ice for a week. That's most of the fish you buy at Whole Foods, and all the supermarkets. We only work with small boats. They leave in the morning at six, and they come back at twelve. The fish is in the house at four o'clock in the afternoon. It's like when you go to the market and you buy fresh corn or tomatoes. They were picked that morning or the day before, and when you have them the next day, they're sweet and delicious. If you buy tomatoes from a green house and they are sitting on a shelf in the supermarket for months, how can they be good? I see people forget season as well. People are eating strawberries in December and there's no flavor. They're white inside. My goal is to source the best items I can find.
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World Travel Guide Chills Down With Ice Music Festival
Seasoned travel journalist Marie Peyre visited our Ice Music Festival earlier this year and has filed a report in the World Travel Guide. You can read Marie's icy findings by clicking the snowflake pictured below.
If you are intrigued and fancy experiencing the world's first and only Ice Music Festival, where all the instruments are made from locally sourced fjord ice, then head over to our About / Where Is Geilo and Ticketmaster shop to organise your visit.
#icemusicfestival2016 will be a truly unique way to kick start 2016!
We look forward to seeing you in Geilo - and don't forget to pack your warmest clothing...❄ Follow us on Twitter @icemusicgeilo and like us on Facebook.


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2016 Toyota Tacoma will come completely renovated. Toyota has for quite some time been leaving the Tacoma model unchanged, but that's bound to alter. Consistent with speculation, the new Toyota Tacoma 2016 will certainly be more improved and upgraded when one thinks of the exterior, interior, appearance, and technological improvements. The corporate has also released details on the engine options.
This pickup was originally launched in 1995. Thus far, there will be two generations of Tacoma, however that will probably be changed soon. In case you consider that current generation was launched in 2005, it seems logical to expect very soon. Toyota busily works on new model and, consistent with some reliable sources, new Tacoma will come as 2016 year model. This point new model won't develop, just it was eventually case with second generation, which became mid-size pickup (original model is compact pickup ). Third generation of Toyota Tacoma may have similar dimensions as its predecessor, but it is going to be different in several aspects.
2016 Toyota Tacoma Redesign
New 2016 Toyota Tacoma can get new platform called Kaizen. Although dimensions will certainly be much like previous model, new you will have longer wheelbase, which should bring improvements in several aspects. New model will certainly be also much lighter, because of the usage of lightweight materials. This weight reduction will provide better overall performances, especially once it is about fuel economy. Outside, 2016 Tacoma will look a lot more attractive and modern. Identical to its predecessor, it is going to be available in three body styles Access Cab, Double Cab and Double Cab Long Bed. Because of the longer wheelbase, interior will certainly be more comfortable, with a lot more legroom to the passengers. More spacious cabin definitely won't function as the only change inside. Interior of 2016 Tacoma can get new modern look and lots of new features.
2016 Toyota Tacoma Specs
2016 Toyota Corolla will receive very modern and stylish features. It's like engineers want to succeed upon the car beauty contest using this new model. New model comes having a sportier and a little aggressive look. New Corolla may have increased wheelbase and 4 doors. Upon the front end we'll see redesigned front grille and headlights. Front grille has suffered some modern look changes and it is upper side is connected with LED powered headlights. Usually there are some rumors about wider choice of external colors to the new model. We also needs to mention new 17 inches alloy wheels. Consistent with some sources, new Corolla will certainly be made of lightweight materials. With new and lighter chassis, new model will improve fuel consumption and performances. 2016 Toyota Corolla will are available four model variants.
This model will certainly be designed on the fresh platform, referred to as Kaizen. The production from the Toyota truck, this point opted for lighter and much more modern materials like aluminum. This'll impact the lower motor weight which should boost the general performance.
The upcoming 2016 Toyota Tacoma will feature 3 cabins : Double Cab, Access Cab and Double Cab Long Bed. Consistent with speculation, it is predicted the passengers will convey more leg space inside the back and front seats. The new Toyota pickup truck will accommodate five passengers ; the seats will possess a modern and contemporary fabric when compared with its predecessor.
2016 Toyota Tacoma Engine
Thus far, we understand that two petrol engines will certainly be offered for new pickup. Those are is 4. 6 liter 4-cylinder and 5. 7 V6. Both engines will use 6-speed automatic transmission which should deliver power to all wheels. However, that's its not all. For several years Toyota plans a diesel variant of the model which could be a perfect moment to its debut. Since Toyota is just one of leaders in hybrid cars industry, some plug-in variant of 2016 Toyota Tacoma is likewise a realistic option.
The anemic 4. 0-liter V-6 is gone and can be replaced with Toyota's 3. 5-liter Atkinson cycle V-6. Power numbers Haven't been released, however this direct-injection / port-injection engine promises to outperform the 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft from the 4. 0-liter engine. Toyota could keep its 2. 7-liter four-cylinder engine, though It's unclear if power will increase coming from the 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque found upon the current version.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma will feature several kinds of engines. The very first one being 4. 6-litre V6 engine fitted with 4 cylinders and also the other one with 5. 7 liter V6 engine. This Toyota pickup truck will feature a 4-wheel-drive, and can be connected to some 6 speed automatic gear box. Usually there are some speculations that the corporate is making Toyota diesel engine to the new model. There's likelihood for any Hybrid model from the new model although the official information Isn't yet to become announced.
Beneath the hood of 2016 Toyota Corolla will certainly be 1. 8 liter inline four power unit. This engine is capable to supply around 132 horsepower and 128 pound feet of torque. Engine will certainly be matted having a six speed manual transmission. Consistent with some sources, It's possible that many of us will see a hybrid version too. If so, engine can deliver 140 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque.
The all-new 2016 Tacoma is able to once again set the benchmark for midsize pickup performance. Its heritage of unwavering capability and unbreakable attitude grows by having an available, all-new 3. 5L V6 with direct injection and 6-speed transmission, plus rugged, available features like Crawl Control (CRAWL ) and Multi-terrain Select. The all-new cabin is able to rock with hot tech like available Qi wireless charging, Push Button Start and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM ).
2016 Toyota Tacoma Price
Pricing to the new 2016 Toyota Tacoma is set at $17, 000 – $21, 000 depending on current exchange rates


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Commercial Art Degrees
Your online resource for Commercial Art Degrees and Career Information. Commercial art careers usually refer to careers in advertising or communications. These careers can be obtained with a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in commercial arts or visual communication. Those who pursue commercial art degrees will be taught illustration, computer graphics, composition, keyboarding, internet art design, and various other elements related to commercial art production and advertising careers. Associate commercial art degrees are typically designed for a seamless transfer to a 4-year educational program, but can be taken as standalone programs for students who only need a two-year education. In the future, if a higher career position is sought, further education can easily be obtained. Students who take two or four-year degree programs in commercial art will study art history, introductory commercial art practices, drawing, website design, computer art, color systems theory, and other elements. For commercial art degrees, popular careers obtained after graduation include graphic designer, commercial artist, mechanical art designer, animator, or photographer. Of course, there are other careers available, as well, depending on the personal preferences and experience of the individual student.


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Pear Blossom, 2015 Greetings Cards (Pack of 6)
Pear Blossom, 2015 Greetings Cards (Pack of 6)
The A6 greetings card range is the original collection, providing cards which are perfect for any message or occasion. They feature an accurate reproduction of the original watercolour artwork to the front and the cards are left blank inside for your message.
Printed in the UK on recycled paper, the greetings cards come with blank white envelopes and cellophane wraps.
105mm x 148mm (open 210mm x 148mm)
Blank inside
Printed in the UK on 300gsm recycled paper stock
Premium white envelope included
Add To Cart


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I did a little happy dance when I got this in the mail the other day.
Yup, that's my name (well, company name) on the cover of Artful Blogging.
It's an honor to be in such good company with so many amazing artists. Reading their stories about how certain life events led them to blogging are pretty inspiring. And seeing their photos on these gorgeous pages are even better than looking at them on the screen. Smile and Wave:
and Samantha Kira:
If you're craving more inspiration, be sure to pick up this issue at Barnes & Noble stores everywhere and online at Stampington. I am grateful that so many of you are interested in what goes on in my little life, and I look forward to sharing even more with you throughout this journey. And speaking of journeys...
Excited to hand deliver a new batch of organic onesies and kids' tees to Little Sprouts this weekend, where I'll be spending time with a couple of my favorite people. If there's something you want to ask me or are interested in seeing on my blog, please leave a comment (they are so much fun to read). Thanks - Sending sunshine and warm thoughts to all of you!


text: Boy Scout Island, Lake Manawa State Park, Council Bluffs, Iowa. Today (Sunday, September 18, 2016, noon to 4 pm) is day two of the Southwest Iowa Art Tour at the Harvester in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Here's the official Facebook invite for details. One of the unique aspects of the show is that artists are encouraged to create art while the show is going on. So I'll be photographing some flowers alongside my print display. If any of this sounds interesting, please stop by.


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Hey! If you're new around here, welcome. Don't forget to grab the latest FREE ebook from Flabs to Fitness here!
For Media Inquiries...
We love events, podcasts, interviews, press, summits, video series... you name it! Please consider asking our founder, Allison Wojtowecz, to join you on your next event (virtual OR in-person).
Allison is able to speak on the following topics:
Mindful nutrition
- Eating better is not hard!
- Making "classic" recipes healthier and/or enjoyable for those with eating restrictions
- What causes someone to eat the way they do
- Why it's so hard to change eating habits
Movement that works for the individual
- How to tweak exercises so they don't aggravate old injuries
- Triplanar training
- How to work with your personal trainer to make sure the workout is effective for YOU
- Learning to listen to your body + its response to different exercises
- Workout recovery
Healthy mindest
- Dealing with depression / disordered eating (both as a sufferer and as a coach of someone you suspect may be suffering with it)
- Working to be better... not perfect.
- Social connection + its importance
- Time management
- De-stressing + taking pressure off of yourself
Want a media or speaking appearance from us?
If you would like to speak with Allison Wojtowecz or a representative of Flabs to Fitness, please contact us through the form below:


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A Report of Ecosystem Goods and Services in the Wye Valley AONB has been compiled by Stephen Parrett whilst on a placement with the AONB Unit in June 2011
The report aims to identify the key ecosystem services provided by the Wye Valley AONB.
It identifies the broad habitats present in the area, recognising enclosed farmland and woodland as the two most significant habitats and detailing the ecosystem services they provide. The threats to ecosystems and strategic objectives for managing ecosystem services is also discussed.
The report then moves on to identify those ecosystem services which are unique to the area, focussing on the importance of geodiversity and the River Wye itself in providing cultural, economic and biodiversity value. Finally the conclusion looks at the economic value of ecosystem services in the Wye Valley AONB.
Esther and Henry Rudge, of Ballingham Court Farm, have been presented with the Wye Valley AONB Farming Award trophy for the third time, at the Monmoouthshire Show.
Entries are being invited for the 2018 Wye Valley AONB Farming Awards, celebrating landonwers who make an outstanding contribution to the landscape.
Wind: 16.09km/h, NNE
Sunrise: 5:59 am
Sunset: 6:28 pm


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Oh how I love the fall. Fresh turtlenecks, crispy weather, the return of JJ Watt—erm, football. I'll admit, my past knowledge of football is slightly limited, but what's not? My love of game day food, the occasional football pun, and best of all, the game day fashion.
This season, I'm an NFL Fan Style blogger participating in the NFL Fan Style Fantasy Football League, where I'll be managing my very own team(!), aptly named Kickoffs and Coffees (did you expect anything less?). Think game-day style tips and Homegating goodness (did somebody say coffee-themed desserts?).
And in the meantime, scoop even more updates from NFL Fan Style on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and NFL on Pinterest.


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Best autofocus lens in the world? - Sony Zeiss FE 55mm f1.8 T* ZA with the A7s - First look review
This is the Zeiss FE 55mm f1.8 T* ZA. According to several big photography blogs this is the best autofocus lens in the world, based on DXO Mark test results. I wasn't able to find this information directly on DXO Mark though.
I don't really care about super-amazing sharpness which is why you won't find any test chart photos on this blog. But I do want a decent autofocus lens for my A7s which is why I bought this. I wanted to share my first thoughts about it, and I will have a more full review at some point after I've used it for a while.
The good:
- Great image quality, although I find the bokeh kind of boring.
- Decently compact and lightweight. I personally would have chosen a smaller lens if one was available. For example I love the utterly tiny size of the Voightlander 35mm f1.4, and I chose that rather than the f1.2 version which is sharper but larger, even though both were within my price range. Lets hope Sony will release a cheaper 50mm at some point.
- Stills autofocus is really nice on it, although just like any other autofocus system it doesn't always know the exact area you want it to focus on. It mostly does a good job of knowing where to focus. I do prefer manual focus when I can see a really detailed image to focus on, such as with some optical viewfinders, but with the Sony I find myself zooming in to manually focus important shots which is slow and annoying. I don't find the focus peaking reliable enough at large apertures.
- Video autofocus with the A7s is a mix of good and bad. It can follow me moving forward and back in the frame surprisingly well, and most of the time does a fairly smooth focus move when something moves on screen or when you point the camera in a new direction. I think I will get some good use out of it for interviews or other similar shots and for filming myself in reviews. It seems to want to follow subjects as much as it can, which is good for filming people most of the time. Once it's found focus it won't want to move away from that subject even if something else is closer, even if that second thing is the center of the shot. Luckily so far this doesn't seem to be an issue like the A7 which just wants to focus on the background most of the time.
However, there are sometimes tiny stutters in the footage, more when shooting close ups, I don't think they will be visible in most normal shots, such as when shooting people. You cannot override the autofocus with the focus ring while filming, you only have the option to press the shutter to search for focus again, but that isn't pretty. I'll need to shoot more with it to be sure of the performance. The option for dual AF/MF exists but Sony's genius software team (note the sarcasm) managed to disable it in video mode. Their lack of competence never fails to amaze me.
Note: So far all my autofocus tests were at f1.8.
- The 50cm minimum focus is fine for this kind of lens but I would have loved to have a little more, especially now that I'm so spoiled by my helicoid adapters which let me focus all the way from infinity to super-close without messing about with extension tubes or macro filters, but these adapters won't work with Sony FE or E mount lenses.
Here's an example of just how good the A7s autofocus system is with the 28-70mm:
The bad:
- Sony's software/firmware team are at it again. They screwed up big time on the camera firmware (read more in this link) and this is now showing itself in the focusing system too. You can tell the camera what area of the frame you want it to try to focus on, but when you press record in video mode the camera ignores this completely and uses all the autofocus points. This is acceptable most of the time but may be problematic for some shots.
- The electronic focus ring (often referred to as "fly-by-wire", which is a term coming from electronic control systems for airplane pilots) is very smooth, but it has one incredibly huge flaw which has been mentioned by many people online, it moves the focus based on how fast you turn the ring, not the amount of rotation. I can't even tell you how much this annoys me. It's such an awful system. This focus ring works in a studio situation for moving your focus to exactly where you want it but it will be pretty useless and annoying for pretty much anything that requires faster focusing. It's very difficult to bring your focus to where you want without going back and forth or going very slowly, let alone follow a moving subject or do any sort of reliable focusing when shooting a video.
- It works pretty well with the A7s but if you own the A7 you still may end up with focus on the background instead of the subject a lot of the time. I have not had time to fully test the two together, so please don't take this as gospel. I'm not sure about the A7r.
Sharpness-to-price ratio:
For 99% of my work, most lenses are sharp enough. Sharpness itself doesn't give me more enjoyment, it doesn't get me more paid work, it doesn't win me any awards, etc. My images are more limited by the 12MP of my A7s than the resolution of most lenses, and in any case my clients and viewers see my images fairly small on their computer screens.
In some cases I do find sharpness helpful when I need to crop into an image, or when shooting a difficult subject such as jewellery. Printing large is also better with sharp images, but I've only done that once in the past few years.
I'm not saying sharp lenses are bad or that I want a terrible lens, I'm just saying that I would want the option to have a lower budget option. The Sony is £850 retail or £520 on eBay UK, which is a big step up in cost from Canon's 50mm f1.8 which costs just £75 retail or £60 on eBay and still has pretty decent image quality. Sure, the Sony is better, but it's overkill for my uses. The FE mount system is still pretty new so hopefully we'll get some more large aperture lenses for these cameras soon.
I could start adapting lenses from Sony's A-mount system but the adapter is large and expensive, and A-mount lenses aren't very cheap or very compact. Sony do have a cheaper E-mount 50mm f1.8 which will work in crop mode as an 85mm lens, but that is too long and on the A7s the crop mode is way too low resolution for photography. With the A7 the crop modes are disgusting and utterly useless in video, and of course if I buy a lens for bokeh then I want it to use my entire sensor, so the cheaper E-mount 50mm just isn't suitable for me.
My conclusions, for now..
Super sharp photos with fast autofocus? - Sure, it's certainly going to be useful.
Fairly reliable video autofocus with lots of bokeh on the already incredible A7s? - Yes please!
Ignoring the "Oh dear god why the balls did I pay so much for a 55mm f1.8 lens" feeling, it's actually very enjoyable to shoot on and very useful for both video and photography with the A7s. I will still use manual focus lenses, but I find it very useful to have at least one decent autofocus lens.
I got mine used for £460, or you can get them new for about £520 in the UK. (I don't recommend buying expensive stuff from Hong Kong, it's a hassle and doesn't end up much cheaper after import costs.) To be fair, this price is pretty awesome if you want a crazy-sharp large aperture autofocus lens, it's just not a great price-to-bokeh ratio for people like me who prefer bokeh over sharpness.
Amazon UK link - Amazon USA link
Here are some alternatives if you want something with more bokeh. All of them are in a similar price range as the Sony (£350-£750) but are manual focus only.
- Voightlander 35mm f1.2 or f1.4
- Mitakon 50mm f0.95
- SLR Magic 50mm f0.95
- Nikon AI-s 50mm f1.2 or f1.4
- Samyang: 24mm f1.4, 35mm f1.4, 50mm f1.4, 85mm f1.4, 135mm f2.0.
- Helios 85mm f1.5 (crazy lovely bokeh)
- Honorable mention: Helios 44-2 (58mm). It's only f2 but cheap as hell with lovely unique bokeh.


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Click here to watch the Demo Video.
Ao J. M., David P., Bordoloi S., Ohler A. (2004) Notes on a collection of snakes from Nagaland, Northeast India, with 19 new records for this state. Russian Journal of Herpetology, 11 (2): 155–162
Boulenger G. A. (1890) The fauna of British India including Ceylon and Burma, Reptilia and Batrachia. London: Taylor and Francis.
Boulenger G. A. (1894) Catalogue of the snakes in the British Museum (natural history). Vol. 2, London: Taylor and Francis.
Constable J. D. (1949-1950) Reptiles from the Indian Peninsula in the Museum of Comparative Zoology. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology at Harvard College. Vol.103: 59-160
David P., Das I., Vogel G. (2011) On some taxonomic and nomenclatural problems in Indian species of the genus Oligodon Fitzinger, 1826 (Squamata: Colubridae). Zootaxa 2799: 1–14
Green M. D. (2010) Molecular Phylogeny of the Snake Genus Oligodon (Serpentes: Colubridae), with an Annotated Checklist and Key. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto
Sclater W.L. (1891) Notes on a collection of snakes in the Indian Museum, with descriptions of several new species. J. Asiat. Soc. Bengal LX: 230-250
Smith M. A. (1943) The fauna of British India, Ceylon and Burma including the whole of The Indo-Chinese Sub-region, Reptilia and Amphibia. Vol 3 Serpentes. Taylor & Francis, London.
Wallach V., Williams K. L., Boundy J. (2014) Snakes of the World: A catalogue of living and extinct species. Taylor and Francis, CRC Press, 1237 pp.
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It's Golem Week! Why? Because Joachim Neugroschel put together a collection of Yiddish golem stories (The Golem, 2006) and I read it. And one book led to another, as always seems to happen.
The 16th century Rabbi Leyb (or Loew) wants to save the Jews of Prague from the blood libel, or some other peril, or he has wood that needs chopping, so he creates a man out of clay and animates him by writing God's name on the golem's forehead, or on a piece of paper which he puts in his mouth, or perhaps he whispers the name in the golem's ear. At some point, the golem goes out of control and has to be destroyed. Or it doesn't. There are a lot of variations.
I've never been to Prague. My understanding is that it is now crammed with golems. See left, see right, see everywhere. Actually, the image on the right is from the 1920 movie The Golem. I've been scrounging golem photos from the internet. Some of the little Prague golem souvenirs are pretty cute.
How strange to finally read a golem story, then, and find that the golem looks perfectly human. His name is Joseph. He has a beard. He eats and sleeps. If you prick him, does he not bleed? He does. That's in Yudl Rosenberg's The Golem or the Miraculous Deeds of Rabbi Leyb (1909), at least.
The Rosenberg book is sort of like a dime novel. It's clumsy, pulpy. A bunch of folktales about Rabbi Leyb are strung together in a more or less logical order, the language is standardized, and Joseph the golem is shoehorned into every adventure whether he is needed or not. In one familiar story, the Rabbi's wife plays Mickey Mouse and the golem plays the water-carrying broom. I see why the book is important - it's a lot of golem stuff in one place - and I enjoyed it, even if it's not exactly good.
What's coming up this week? H. Leivick's golem-in-crisis; Dovid Frishman's golem-in-love; I. L. Peretz and Jorge Luis Borges; and one of the craziest novels I've ever read (or will read, inshallah, since it's in process). And more golem pictures, pilfered from the internet.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Golem Week! Golem Week!
It's Golem Week! Why? Because Joachim Neugroschel put together a collection of Yiddish golem stories (The Golem, 2006) and I read it. And one book led to another, as always seems to happen.
12 comments:
- Mr. HomunculusMay 5, 2009 at 8:29 PM
I rented a room in Prague. From a golem. I got a really good rate, since it was apparently a sublet. It was a little dusty, but nice and quiet.ReplyDelete
- The GolemMay 5, 2009 at 8:35 PM
That picture of me is from hunger! Where did you get that? I look so fat! I sure have lost a lot of weight since then. And where did I get that haircut? Boy oh boy, the 1570s were not a good time for fashion.ReplyDelete
I'm so embarrassed.
yay for golems! There is something both frightening and charming about them. I think I might have to go to Prague someday just to get a golem souvenir.ReplyDelete
Ze golems!! Zey are effreywhere!!! *runs screaming from the room*ReplyDelete
- tcheniMay 6, 2009 at 12:50 PM
Hi there,ReplyDelete
The best Golem story is Gustav Meyrink's, praguois extraordinaire though austrian, strange combination of Poe's fantastic feel and Villiers de l'Isle-Adam's funky victorian esoterism.
Sorry to lenghten your to read pile!
- tcheniMay 6, 2009 at 1:23 PM
Ok, I have just noticed that Meyrink is already there on your to-read pile. Good choice!ReplyDelete
Sorry for making typos, too. I have a good excuse.
- Prairie QuilterMay 6, 2009 at 3:45 PM
If your reading golem stories, don't forget the children's edition that won the Caldecot medal. It's called The Golem, but I don't remember the author. The illustrations are done with cut paper and are fantastic.ReplyDelete
So, tcheni, I played a dirty trick there - the Meyrink book is the crazy novel I mentioned. But I appreciate the recommendation. For example, what Villiers d'Isle-Adam is worth reading?ReplyDelete
Oh yeah, the children's book - that's by the cut-paper genius David Wisniewski. Wonder if I can get hold of that before the week's over.
One of the most wonderful things about the internet is that I can correspond with golems and homunculi without leaving my computer. Mr. Homunculus, please give my regards to Paracelsus.
I am going to put up more charming golem pictures - I hope the Golem finds some of them more flattering. Sir, you are not fat; rather, you are a giant clay monster. Wait, that doesn't sound much better.
The Wisniewski book, which I obtained for my children, is beautiful—but the tale is just a retelling of the Yudl Rosenberg version. Did you know that Rosenberg was the inventor of the interpretation, now commonplace, that Rabbi Judah Löw fashioned the Golem to do battle against the enemeies of the Jews? Michael Chabon adopts this conceit in The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, making the Golem into a superhero.ReplyDelete
- tcheniMay 7, 2009 at 7:21 AM
Hi Amateur!ReplyDelete
I see... my memory of Meyrink's Golem is maybe dim, but I would certainly enjoy your review about it and what you have found that crazy.
[Related note: I always wanted to read another book by Meyrink, entitled (in french) L'ange à la fenêtre de l'occident, a story about John Dee (with, I'm sure you'll agree, one of the most expressive title I've seen in the funky esoterism category) but it had not been published anymore during a long time (désédité... unpublished?). But I just searched for it on the net because of our "conversation" (notre clavardage, a quebecois would have said) and find out that it has been re-published by Flammarion in 2005! You owe me 13,30 euros.]
About Villiers de l'Isle-Adam: I will give you a double-edged advice here. The popular knowledge would be to direct you to Contes Cruels, which is a masterpiece of evocative and poetic narration ; however, I would rather say "go read the indigestible Eve Future", only so you'll know what I mean by "victorian esoterism", plus, it's more in line with your current readings (don't miss the Contes, though!). It's about Thomas Edison who creates a feminine homunculus/Golem/cyborg for a friend. The mix of, hum, "creative" science à la Jules Vernes and the usual symbolic apparatus of Villiers de l'I-A is rather stunning.
- tcheniMay 7, 2009 at 7:35 AM
Oh, and one more things: both Villiers de l'I-A's books are available on wikisource. So don't pretend you owe me now less than 13,30 euros.ReplyDelete
Regarding Villiers d'Isle-Adam: Sold, completely sold! And the Meyrink book about John Dee is available at the library. Although my reading is perhaps veering a little too strongly in the direction of the eccentric. I'll need to slip someone sober and sensible into the mix.ReplyDelete
Prof. Myers, Neugroschel says the same thing about Rosenberg, but what puzzles me then is the I. L. Peretz story I wrote about today, dated 1893, over a decade before Yudl Rosenberg, in which Rabbi Loew creates the golem to save the Prague ghetto from a pogrom.
I haven't read Chabon. His use of the golem sounds ingenious. It's such a rich, flexible story.


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Troupes honored: The CabCo Pretenders and Old Courthouse Theatre received the "Constance Welsh - Theatre for Youth Award" at the North Carolina Theatre Conference Awards. The CabCo Pretenders was founded by Old Courthouse Theatre charter member Becky Porter. The award is named after Constance Welsh, founder of Davidson Community Players and the Tarradiddle Players.
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New clerk: Bill Baggs has been sworn in as the clerk of Cabarrus County Superior Court. Baggs was elected in November to replace Fred Biggers. He previously served Cabarrus County as a magistrate.
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Hand Made
Recently, I've been inspired to make felt phone cases and particularly, superhero phone cases. I've made Batman & Robin and Superman. Then I broke from the mould and couldn't resist an owl. But I think I'll go back to making another Batman and also a Captain America. I need to go buy some more black felt first.
The other item which I have been making a few of is this origami Christmas wreath. Once I got the knack of it, I was really quick if I focused and didn't get distracted by the TV. I was making a wreath in about 16 minutes. I like the 3-dimensional form and it makes such a simple but lovely holiday decoration.
There is something deeply satisfying in making something with your own hands. We connect with the output and feel a sense of achievement, even self-worth. And that is why the hand made movement is making a comeback. People are willing to pay more for something hand made by an artisan. And artisans are willing to make things for sale, even though if you take the time put in, in some cases, the hourly rate is very low. As for me, I will make the things I like for myself and my friends and family. I don't think I will put them up for sale because the hourly rate will not be worth my time, but the ability to give my loved ones something hand made will be priceless.


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Your screen is to small to play this dog flash game.
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According to Ezine Magazine colors appeal to kids tremendously and they like to be with colorful objects and because this reason, coloring games are hugely preferred by kids. The child creates different strokes with colors to suit his mood or imagination. Kids prefer animal pictures as well as online animal games. These games have attractive graphics to draw interest of the player and kids learn many attributes of animals through these games. It is great way of learning the animal kingdom, which children take up easily.
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As I state elsewhere on this website, one of the incredible effects of taking the elixir is the amplification of creativity. It's changed me drastically and I only wish it was as easy to paint what I see in my mind. All the artwork on here right now is really nothing special to me, but perhaps someday I will learn to get what's in my head out onto the canvas.
By posting my work here on this website, I will be motivated to try harder and develop my skill further. But there are only so many hours in a day, and by the end of the day I'm darn tired, so getting in the mood to paint ain't easy.


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Joseph Yates
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A nice fellow has been traveling around the county lately, soliciting the assistance of others in helping those who are unable to help themselves. I intend to support his cause. I have seen his presentation twice—it is a gentle, soft-sell pitch in which he asks for our help. During both presentations he used the phrase "this is not a hand out."
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ClimateFast hosts a presentation and discussion with delegates who participated in the Paris COP 21. What does the agreement mean, and what happens next? How will we bring our carbon emissions down and how quickly does that need to happen? How can civil society best support the transition to 100% renewables?
Presenters: Joy Kennedy, Alice Zhu, Ben Donato-Woodger, Paul Beckwith, Jim Baxter, Jose Etcheverry and Paul Antze. Also invited: Kirsty Duncan, Elizabeth May, Willi Nolan


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Recently I asked an online group I subscribe to what they thought of men in hats, and I'd like to cite a response here from 29-year old Mandi, a marketing director in Tulsa, who said:
I think men in hats are extremely sexy! You mentioned Brad Pitt's newsboy and Johnny Depp's fedora, but you failed to mention Matt Bomer, as Neal Caffrey on the hit show White Collar on USA. (And no, I don't work for USA.) He takes the fedora look to whole a new level! I have included a picture for you to admire…. 🙂
I am glad to say that my boyfriend actually GETS that hats are sexy. Of course he loves his old faithful baseball caps, but he can also give Brad Pitt a run for his money in his newsboy hat! And don't discount the beanie; it's a great choice when it's chilly outside. So if your husband/boyfriend hasn't jumped on the trendy hat bandwagon, tell him it's time!
I don't watch much TV, but Mandi wasn't the only person to mention Matt Bomer (who, for the other person out there who doesn't know, plays a con artist-turned-FBI informant on White Collar).
DD of Danker PR in Brentwood, Tennessee not only instructed me to watch White Collar because "he wears a hat" but said she too loves men in hats. In fact, DD says she "dated two men that wore hats" and she "loved it". Why? For the simple reason that "they looked sexy."
Chiming in from the offices of Maury Rogoff PR in New York, Maury was a little harsher saying:
love men in hats as long as they look EXACTLY LIKE MATT BOMER FROM the USA tv show, WHITE COLLAR. Besides that – – pass.
Gosh, Maury. Not everyone can look like Matt Bomer (or Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp for that matter). But we can wear the same hats!
Thanks for playing,
Steve Singer
CEO Hartford York
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Most visitors to the tiny Cornish village of St Mawes can see why its housing market has emerged from the downturn relatively unscathed, even as property prices in neighbouring places remain depressed.
The village, with a permanent population of only 850, is on a beautiful hillside in the Roseland peninsula giving many properties uninterrupted water views, sometimes on two sides. For boat owners it is near Falmouth and Mylor, two of southern Cornwall's sailing havens, while gastronomes are no more than 15 minutes' drive from several Good Food Guide restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred Driftwood in Portscatho and Tabb's in Truro, as well as many old-fashioned country pubs.
Houses in St Mawes are unusually large by Cornish standards. Whereas most high-end parts of the far southwest of England are dominated by elaborately modernised fishermen's cottages with little outside space – Port Isaac, Padstow and Fowey, for example – St Mawes has a significant proportion of large, modern and detached houses in substantial grounds.
Unsurprisingly, therefore, the village's housing market is strong. The average price of property sold there over the past five years is £607,000, while in Cornwall as a whole it is just £236,000, according to the website Zoopla. And, although average prices across Cornwall are still falling (down 3.8 per cent over the past year, according to the Land Registry's October figures), local estate agents say St Mawes is now over the worst.
"It was affected between 2009 and 2012 as the recession restricted second-home buyers," says Ben Standen of Jackson-Stops & Staff. "But in 2013 there have definitely been more buyers than sellers, hence prices have stayed strong."
"It's our view that early 2012 saw the bottom of the market when we saw two sales concluded at over £2.5m each [despite] one of these selling at a much higher level in 2007," says Jonathan Cunliffe of Savills. But the typical St Mawes buyer now seems to be returning, he adds: a mixture of wealthy retirees and second-home buyers from London.
There has been an increase in international interest, too. The village had its first Russian purchaser in 2010 and Savills has sold two homes to German buyers this year, while other agents report interest from Hong Kong and Australia. On top of that, there are returning British expats, "who start looking five years before they move back, giving time to have work carried out and to visit on holidays," says Nicola Oddy of Stacks Property Search, a buying agency.
One major driver for consistently strong prices is St Mawes' sailing tradition. Knight Frank says the village is one of the top seven locations in southern England with the highest premiums on properties with water views, especially if they are accompanied by direct river frontages and moorings. The agency claims a private slipway can boost the price of a property in St Mawes by more than 100 per cent, while private access to a jetty will add 80 per cent.
However, buyers inevitably have a limited choice of homes in such a small location. This winter there are some 25 St Mawes homes on the open market, just four of which are on for more than £1m. A similar number are for sale in nearby villages Portscatho, Tregony and Veryan.
Savills is selling a new three-storey house in St Mawes with 6,300 sq ft of space. The property has five bedrooms and a galleried hall, plus extensive outdoor terracing – all designed to optimise water views. It is on the market for £2.35m.
Nearby, a colonial-style house, built in the 1930s and frequently remodelled, has four bedrooms, 2,800 sq ft of space and is being marketed by agent H Tiddy for £1.85m.
For those with long-term plans for a customised house, a plot on the edge of St Mawes is being sold with consent to build a 6,100 sq ft home for £1.39m through Carter Jonas. Its unusually large 48-acre grounds come with 1,500ft of creek frontage. A more modest three-bedroom Georgian semi-detached house – still with views across St Mawes harbour and the village itself – is on sale for £850,000 through Miller Countrywide.
These high prices persist despite what some prospective buyers may regard as significant disadvantages.
Not only is St Mawes 290 miles southwest of London – a six-hour drive not including breaks – but the final 20 miles leading to the village are on narrow lanes. To travel from St Mawes to the nearest town centres of Falmouth and Truro you must either drive a dog-leg route to the head of a river or use undeniably charming but slow ferries.
St Mawes is only 30 miles from Newquay airport but easyJet has recently closed its Newquay-Gatwick service citing insufficient demand, while Gatwick and Heathrow are both about 280 miles away.
Even the mobile telephone signal can be patchy – "which frustrates holiday makers and business people alike," says Nicola Oddy. But perhaps it is the peacefulness of the area that appeals to its better-known residents and tourists.
Sir Frank Williams, owner of the Williams Formula One team, has a property in the village, as does David Richards, former F1 team principal and now chairman of Aston Martin. This year, Richards opened a 20-room boutique hotel called Idle Rocks in St Mawes. It is aimed at young families and is a rival to the Hotel Tresanton, a 1940s yacht club transformed by the Forte family's Olga Polizzi in 1997 and frequented by Tony Blair, the Prince of Wales and a host of celebrities.
St Mawes clearly still has pulling power, despite Cornwall's economic landscape not yet enjoying the green shoots of recovery seen elsewhere. A powerful combination of natural beauty, water views and spacious housing has been its recipe for staying strong, even in a downturn.
Buying Guide
● In August – at the height of the holiday season – there were just two reported crimes in St Mawes: one for antisocial behaviour, the other for burglary
● A significantly higher-than-average 39 per cent of residents are pensioners. The southwest of England has an average of 22 per cent, while the national average is just 17 per cent
● 65 per cent of homes are detached, double the average across southwest England
What you can buy for . . .
£500,000 A refurbished three-bedroom cottage near the harbour
£1m A detached four-bedroom house with views and a lawned garden
£2.5m A five-bedroom period villa with large grounds on the water
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Graeser Winery2003 Semillon
(Napa Valley)
Napa Valley – home to some of the greatest and most productive Cabernet Sauvignon producers in America – is my beat. So, whenever I get the opportunity to recommend a wine from the region that's not a Cabernet, I'm all over it. Variety is the spice of life and this Semillon, while it doesn't have spice, certainly has many layers of complexity.
It's even seductive with floral notes in the nose. In the mouth, it's simply gorgeous with voluptuous, sweet viscous fruit. The wine is in balance, but it needs time because this is a white wine with red wine sensibilities. It'll age nicely I believe, for another five or six years.
The fruit was sourced from Don Myers' valley floor vineyard, north of the town of Calistoga. The wine went through partial barrel fermentation in neutral American and French oak before the whole passed through stainless steel. The listed alcohol is 13.9 percent. There were less than 300 cases produced.
Reviewed February 15, 2007 by Alan Goldfarb.
Other reviewed wines from Graeser Winery
Graeser Winery
2002 Alex's Ruff Red Wine
(North Coast)Catherine Fallis 8/10/2007
Graeser Winery
2002 Merlot, Two Dog Vineyard
(Napa Valley)Catherine Fallis 6/13/2007
Graeser Winery
2003 Cabernet Franc, Estate
(Diamond Mountain District ~ Napa Valley)Catherine Fallis 4/11/2007
The Wine
Winery: Graeser Winery
Alan Goldfarb
The Reviewer
Alan Goldfarb has been writing about and reviewing wine for 17 years. His reviews have been published in the St. Helena Star, San Jose Mercury, San Francisco Examiner, Decanter, and Wine Enthusiast, among others. Not once has he used a point system, star system, or an iconic symbol to quantify a wine. What counts in Mr. Goldfarb's criteria when judging a wine is: how it tastes in the glass; is it well-constructed; its food compatibility; and presence of redeeming regional attributes.