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Garage Sale Swag
Look at what I found at a garage sale this weekend! I popped by a moving sale in SE Portland last Saturday, on a whim, when I was early for an appointment. And I found these vases and a handmade leaf plate all for a total cost of $1.50. I'm in love.
These can vases look like they were modeled after an energy drink can. And I'm sure that they'll showcase a single bloom nicely. I think I'll try them out with a Japanese Anemone blossom first.
Good dog!


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Veras Gräsmatta and Sweden's first female engineer, Vera Sandberg
You can find Veras Gräsmatta at Vera Sandbergs Allé 8, named for Vera Sandberg, Sweden's first female engineer. We explain why below.
Vera Sandberg was born on May 23, 1895 at Hångers farm in Ljungby, Southern Sweden. During her childhood, her family ran Långasjönäs paper mill in Blekinge, and Vera grew up with her mother and grandmother. In this environment, Vera developed a keen interest in chemistry and was eager to increase her knowledge in that sphere. She wanted to go to the renowned Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg.
Historically, the University had only admitted male students, but that didn't stop Vera Sandberg. When she matriculated in 1914, Sandberg was the only woman among 500 men. It is believed that she had to pass tough tests to get into the institution, while the men were accepted on their grades.
After graduating in 1917, Sandberg threw herself into another male-dominated world, working at the AB Skandinaviska refinery in Partille, the oil factory in Karlshamn, the rubber factory in Helsingborg and finally Sieverts cable works in Sundbyberg. You can see her working in the laboratory in an image in a commemorative book from Sieverts Cable Lab.
Self-belief, daring to contravene prevailing norms and social structures and breaking new ground in the true spirit of enterpreneurs - these were the hallmarks of Vera Sandberg. That's why we named the meeting place for entrepreneurship and innovation "Veras Gräsmatta" - Vera's lawn. This is the place to meet - for students, researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators who want to think outside the box, be ahead of their time and create new values for tomorrow's society.

subset: commoncrawl


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Wedding Photography at Henley Room Registry Office Stratford
On the 4th August, I did the Wedding Photography Warwickshire at the Henley Room Registry Office for Lisa and Marcus. I'd been booked for my six-hour package to cover the morning bridal preparations through the first dance in the evening.
I have been to the Henley Rooms a number of times now, it is definitely an improvement on the old Windsor House registry office on the inside but the downside is that it has no outside space, but on this occasion, it did not matter because it was a gloriously sunny August day so we were able to walk down to the park by the river for photos.
After meeting Lisa at her home I did some casual photos of the bridal prep before heading off to Stratford to get to the Henley Rooms to aim to get there before they did, as it turned out everybody struggled to get to the ceremony on time because of the extreme traffic queues into the town.
But once there I was able to guide guests in and generally help out as there was a lot of confusion as most of the key people were missing when the ceremony was due to start. I often like to help as much as I can I am a photographer but my job is also to help the day run smooth. Once everybody had arrived the ceremony was very touching, there were some tears of joy and lots of laughter. Afterwards, Marcus and Lisa left the Henley Room in there hired 1950's Cadillac whilst I guided the guests down to the small park located close to Holy Trinity Church. I had chosen this park as I know the Bancroft is rammed in the summertime, this was a lot quieter and there was space to park the car.
We did some formal group photos and some couple photos by the river and then everybody headed off for the reception meal and I met up with them later the Rugby Club in Alcester, where they had booked the whole club and a burger van / horsebox.


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Scientists have argued for years about when rice, which now feeds more than half of the world's population, was first domesticated. A new study suggests hunter-gatherers in China started growing the grain there more than 9,000 years ago.
Why it's important: Domesticating crops was one of humans' most innovative moves. We selected for traits and put pressures on the evolution of crops that we're still trying to understand and unravel, in hopes of a) learning how civilizations arose and b) improving modern crops by potentially re-introducing wild traits for disease-resistance or tolerance to different environments that were lost over thousands of years of selection and breeding.


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The 12th annual Talents Sarajevo program will welcome 61 up-and-coming actors, cinematographers, directors, editors, film critics, producers and screenwriters from Southeast Europe and the Southern Caucasus during the 24th Sarajevo Film Festival.
This year, Talents come from 13 of the 19 eligible nations, including Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Kosovo, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey. The programme has been slimmed down to 61 participants, so with a record 398 applications, competition has never been tougher. Numbers of 2018 participants by country are more evenly distributed than in recent years, with between one and 10 Talents hailing from each nation; Greece has the greatest number of participants with 10, followed by Romania and Turkey with eight each and Serbia sending six. Read more


text: Dentist in South Hadley Embraces Digital X-Rays January 15, 2017 Filed under: Uncategorized — drleigh @ 6:03 pm Technological advancements transform all industries, including the dental industry. With the use of the latest advancements, dentists can enhance patient care while providing more accurate and precise diagnosis and treatments. Among one of the best technologies to revolutionize dental care are digital x-rays. When compared to traditional film x-rays, the use of digital technology offers superior benefits. As a dentist in South Hadley, we embrace the benefits digital x-rays offer to provide our patients with world-class dental care. Why are X-Rays Important? X-rays are an essential component to delivering quality dental care by providing a deeper visualization into a patient's oral health other than what can be seen with the naked eye. As a result, we are able to accurately diagnosis and treat dental problems by reviewing the images. Overall, we gain a whole picture into your oral health with images that provide a high level of detail. X-rays allow dentists to not just see the tooth, but also see the bone and supporting tissues. This allows us to find cavities, view the roots of the tooth, and check the health of the bone surrounding the teeth. We can even use the images to monitor the development of teeth. X-rays are not just limited to the hard tissues of oral health. We can use x-rays to diagnosis periodontal disease, while also detecting the presence of cysts, abscesses, and other masses. Without x-rays, we would not be able to provide the quality care needed to maintain superior oral health. Why are Digital X-Rays Best? Traditional x-rays are often controversial because they expose a patient to radiation. Over time, the exposure to radiation can lead to serious health problems. However, digital x-rays significantly decrease the amount of radiation exposure. In fact, research shows that digital x-rays use 80% less radiation when compared to traditional x-rays. In addition to being a safer option, digital images enhance patient comfort. With traditional x-rays, patients have to bite on papers. This often causes awkward biting, jaw cramps, and pressure. However, with digital images, a sensor is placed within the mouth that is connected to a computer using a thin wire. This allows images to be captured without the discomfort. When the images are viewed, there is no comparison between the quality of digital images when compared to traditional x-rays. Not only are the images available almost immediately, but the images contain a higher quality resolution. The images can also be resized and enlarged to make viewing even easier. Patient documentation is far simpler with digital images as they are simply uploaded to a data base. If the images need to be shared with an insurance company or another dental provider, they can easily be transferred to another location via email. The images are always available for reviewing through the data base. Overall, digital x-rays have simplified dental care while enhancing the care we deliver. At Newton Street Dental, we provide our patients with the latest dental technologies, including digital x-rays, because we believe you should benefit from the best. If you are ready for a state-of-the-art dental practice, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Comments Off on Dentist in South Hadley Embraces Digital X-Rays No Comments No comments yet. RSS feed for comments on this post. Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.


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Not many chocolate brands can say they have been making chocolate lovers smile for over 100 years but we certainly can.
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The inclusion of any article or advert does not constitute any form of endorsement or approval by Franchiseek.com. Whilst we make every effort to ensure advertisements and articles are correct, Franchiseek.com, will not be held responsible for errors or omissions. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article which we consider unsuitable.


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Sightline Photo specializes in architectural photography for both residential and commercial properties. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, with sunrise/sunset or weekend time slots available by request, at additional charges.
Pricing is not based on square footage or the number of images provided. All features of the property are diligently photographed to capture the essence of both the interior and exterior environments, based on what the property offers. If it can enhance either the front or back of the property, a "mini-aerial" view will also be provided. After the photoshoot you will receive a high and low resolution version of each image, usually within 24 hours.


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The Malibu Maternity Slip Nightie is a beautiful, comfortable maternity and breastfeeding dress and feeding bra all in one. Let's be honest, when you are in the late stages of pregnancy and early days of mothering, getting dressed is a luxury! So the Malibu has been designed to be worn 24 hours a day so you can feel liked you've dressed (even though it was the day before!). Who says you can't look gorgeous despite the sleepless nights and insane routine that is motherhood.
The fabric selected is super soft and stretches as baby grows and bounces back for after baby's arrival. The drop down feeding bra with adjustable straps means you can feed your baby easily while still looking and feeling your best.
Malibu has won multiple awards and featured in many publications including Love to Shop section of Expert Parenting: Pregnancy, Life & Style


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Does a prominent leader's endorsement of a political candidate sway your vote on Election Day?
Fresno City Council candidate Randall Reed is hoping it will benefit his campaign. I've learned Reed has won the endorsements of two of the Fresno area's most prominent and popular local leaders. Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin and Fresno County Schools Superintendent Larry Powell are now backing Reed's bid to win the District 2 City Council seat. Both Swearengin and Powell believe Reed has the experience and integrity needed to serve the District.
The endorsements are noteworthy, but not quite a surprise since Reed worked for both Swearengin and Powell at separate times handling media and communications. The endorsements may carry some political weight when you consider the District 2 contest. The race to replace Andreas Borgeas who's running for County Supervisor, is the most competitive contest in the City. Besides Reed, the contenders are small business owner and Tea Party member Steve Brandau, medical business manager Sue Saigal, food manufacturer and long-time District 2 resident Pat DiCicco, and small business owner Kelly Miller, who has also been a long time resident of the District. All of the candidates have strengths and you can expect all of them to win major endorsements.
Action News Political Analyst Tony Capozzi thinks the Reed endorsements by Powell and Swearengin could have an effect on the crowded District 2 campaign.
Capozzi says "If that candidate gets out and says 'I have these two powerful people behind me... looks good for my election'... that could help raise some money, but when you're in a pack of five people running for one spot... it's going to divide up the vote quite a bit. There's going to be a run-off, but those endorsements could make a big difference in terms of raising money and getting your name out there."
Capozzi also believes the impact of the endorsement depends on how you use it. He asks "Is the endorsement from the Mayor going to mean something? It may not...unless the Mayor is willing to get out and do something. Is the Mayor willing to put her name on TV, in radio ads and the newspapers? If she's willing to do that and work with the candidate... that endorsement may mean a lot. Just to say 'I've been endorsed' and not do anything with it... it won't have that much of an effect on the election."
Capozzi says a candidate must live up to that endorsement and be careful about what they say or how they campaign because it can impact the person who granted the endorsement. Capozzi adds... just as a candidate can benefit from an endorsement... their campaign can take a big hit if those endorsements are pulled back.


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Edwards tapped to lead Cougar softball program
by The Press and Standard | November 7, 2018 5:00 pm
Last Updated: November 7, 2018 at 12:06 pm
By CINDY CROSBY
Tavara Edwards has been named as the head varsity softball coach for Colleton County High School.
Edwards will inherit a solid team for her inaugural debut as the head coach of the Lady Cougars. Colleton County finished the 2018 season with a 15-10 overall record and went 6-4 in Region 8-AAAA, finishing in third place in the region and the top 10 in AAAA statewide. The Lady Cougars advanced to the championship game of the District V playoffs, where they forced the "if" game against Chapin before being eliminated.
Edwards graduated from Walterboro High School in 2000 with a 4.0 GPA and was a member of the National Honor Society. A third-baseman, she played under former Lady Cougar Head Softball Coach Rusty Adams and went on to play collegiately for two years at Claflin University (2000-02). She completed her psychology degree at Argosy University and is on track to earn a master's in psychology with a minor in criminal justice this May.
Her coaching experience includes the Colleton County Recreational League, a local community team, a travel team (Lowcountry Breeze), North Walterboro Christian, and most recently as the head junior varsity coach for Colleton County.
Edwards will have big shoes to fill as she steps into a role held by Coach Rusty Adams, who announced his second retirement last spring. As head coach of the varsity program across 35 years, Adams had an unparalleled 579 wins, 16 region titles and was instrumental in helping at least 57 female athletes toward a collegiate career.
Colleton County District Athletic Director Leon Hammond announced Edwards' hiring saying, "She worked under Coach Adams over the past two seasons and has years of experience, as a coach and player. She spoke in great detail during her interview about growing the girls holistically as positive citizens for the future. Coach Edwards is a detective in Jasper County during the day.
"I look forward to helping her build a quality coaching staff," said Hammond. "I expect her to continue to build upon the quality program Coach Adams built here at CCHS."


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A New York appeals court ruled Thursday that the state could not use eminent domain on behalf of Columbia University to obtain parts of a 17-acre site in Upper Manhattan, setting back plans for a satellite campus at a time of discord over government power to acquire property.
In a 3-to-2 decision, a panel of the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court in Manhattan annulled the state's 2008 decision to take property for the expansion project, saying that its condemnation procedure was unconstitutional.
The majority opinion was scathing in its appraisal of how the "scheme was hatched," using terms like "sophistry" and "idiocy" in describing how the state went about declaring the neighborhood blighted, the main prerequisite for eminent domain.
The $6.3 billion expansion plan is not dead; an appeal has been promised, and Columbia still controls most of the land. But at a time when the government's use of eminent domain on behalf of private interests has become increasingly controversial, the ruling was a boon for opponents.
"I feel unbelievable," said Nicholas Sprayregen, the owner of several self-storage warehouses in the Manhattanville expansion area and one of two property owners who have refused to sell to the university. "I was always cautiously optimistic. But I was aware we were going against 50 years of unfair cases against property owners."Continue reading the main story
A spokesman for Columbia, David M. Stone, referred all questions to state officials.
Warner Johnston, a spokesman for the Empire State Development Corporation, the agency that approved the use of eminent domain, called the decision "wrong and inconsistent with established law, as consistently articulated by the New York State Court of Appeals, most recently with respect to E.S.D.C.'s Atlantic Yards project." He added, "E.S.D.C. intends to appeal this decision."
The ruling comes less than two weeks after the Court of Appeals, the state's highest court, ruled 6 to 1 that the state could exercise eminent domain in taking businesses, public property and private homes on behalf of a Brooklyn developer who planned a 22-acre residential development and a basketball arena.
Proponents of Columbia's plan expressed optimism that Thursday's decision would be overturned by the Court of Appeals. But Norman Siegel, a lawyer for the holdout owners, called the ruling a "major victory" in a state that has been deferential to its power to take private property.
"The decision sets forth a road map for how private property owners in New York and throughout America can fight back when government tries to seize your property in the name of eminent domain," he said.
Columbia embarked in 2003 on its first major expansion in 75 years, saying it had outgrown its Morningside Heights campus. It planned to replace the low-scale industrial buildings north of 125th Street, in the Manhattanville area, with school buildings, laboratories, restaurants and tree-lined streets.
The court's decision, if it is upheld, is not fatal to the plan. Columbia already owns or controls 61 of 67 buildings in the 17-acre project area. Presumably, it can build around the holdout owners, or come to agreement with them. But the state and the university have sought the entire site.
Mr. Sprayregen said he never opposed the plan. "The research and education they will perform are very beneficial," he said. "The fact remains that even if they don't get the last 5 percent, they can still go ahead and build their campus."
Amrik Singh, who manages two gas stations involved in the case, said: "I want to thank God and the judges who gave us the decision. We were scared. We were all worried about our jobs."
Mr. Sprayregen and the family that owns the stations challenged the process the state used in finding that the neighborhood was blighted.
Writing for the majority, Justice James M. Catterson said there was a conflict of interest when the state hired the same real estate consultant, AKRF, that Columbia had hired to make the determination of blight. "We questioned AKRF's ability to provide 'objective advice' to the E.S.D.C., particularly with respect to its preparation of the blight study," Justice Catterson wrote.
The blight designation, the court said, was "mere sophistry" about a neighborhood that was already undergoing a renaissance. The state's development corporation committed to rezoning long before the study, "not for the goal of general economic development or to remediate an area that was blighted before Columbia acquired over 50 percent of the property, but rather solely for the expansion itself."
"Even a cursory examination of the study reveals the idiocy of considering things like unpainted block walls or loose awning supports as evidence of a blighted neighborhood," Justice Catterson wrote.
A spokesman for the firm said in response to the court's ruling: "As a firm of planners and analysts, AKRF's responsibility is the collection and assessment of data in an objective and thorough manner. Our analyses help inform a public decision-making process. They are not advocacy documents."
The court's opinion also drew a distinction between the circumstances in Manhattanville and New London, Conn., the subject of a United States Supreme Court decision in 2005. In that case, the court upheld the taking of land, in part, because the city had devised a wide-ranging downtown revitalization plan.
In New York, the Appellate Division said the state and city development agencies "were compelled to engineer a public purpose for a quintessentially private development: eradication of blight," after "having committed to allow Columbia to annex Manhattanville."
The court found no civic purpose to this use of eminent domain and criticized state officials for arbitrarily closing the administrative record from further comment by opponents and withholding relevant public documents from the property owners.
In the dissent, Justice Peter Tom wrote that the expansion of an educational institution qualified as a public purpose. He wrote that the property owners' arguments over blight constituted merely a "difference of opinion" that requires the court to defer to the state's decision to use eminent domain. Justice Tom wrote that the Court of Appeals had used similar reasoning in the Atlantic Yards case.
Despite the recent Atlantic Yards ruling, the decision Thursday gave hope to property owners battling the use of eminent domain in Brooklyn and Queens. "We feel like we just got thrown a lifeline," said Matthew Brinckerhoff, a lawyer for the property owners at Atlantic Yards.
A year ago, the City Council authorized the use of eminent domain to take a 62-acre area of mostly salvage yards and auto repair shops known as Willets Point in Queens. "The tide may be turning on the use of eminent domain for private purposes," said Jake Bono, a spokesman for Willets Point United, a group of property owners opposed to condemnation.Continue reading the main story


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The principal of Delhi Public School (DPS) here was today arrested for alleged violation of rules, following the death of four students of the institute in a bus accident on January 5, the police said.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harinarayanchari Mishra said Sudarshan Sonar, the principal of DPS, was arrested for alleged violation of rules and regulations related to transport and maintenance of school buses.
Sonar was produced in a court here, which rejected his bail plea and remanded him in judicial custody till February 22.
On January 5, a bus belonging to the school had rammed into a truck at Kanadiya bypass, killing four students and the driver.
On January 7, the police had arrested a DPS official and two other persons for culpable homicide not amounting to murder, cheating and forging documents after investigations revealed that the bus' speed governor was malfunctioning.
District Prosecution Officer Mohammed Akram Sheikh today said Section 188 (disobeying of orders issued by a government authority) of the IPC had also been added after probe.
Police had claimed that a forged certificate was obtained from a private firm which certified that the speed governor of the bus was working properly.
Police investigations also revealed that at the time of the incident, the bus was running at a speed of 60 kilometres per hour instead of the mandatory 40 kmph limit, which meant that the speed governor had been tampered with.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)


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(Massive video game crossover) The planet Corneria is under a constant threat of evil. The All Star Heroes, a team of six individuals with varying skills and abilities, are tasked with protecting this planet. The team consists of a Gremio from Suikoden (the leader), Billy Kane from Fatal Fury (the athlete), Ally Gator from Black & Bruised (the fighter), Coco Bandicoot from Crash Bandicoot (the tech expert), Toad from Mario Bros (the muscle) and Scorch from Army Men (the pyromaniac). Who will this team of six face next? It literally could be anyone.
Episode 3 Page 3
March 3rd, 2014, 8:12 am
Author's Comments:
Reply SSBFreak, March 3rd, 2014, 8:12 am
This episode's going to be more Billy-centric, maybe as a way to make it up for him for giving him little screentime in the last episodes...
Reply Advertisement, September 18th, 2019, 3:18 pm
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If the police commissioner of New York City has his way, the number of arrests made by his police officers should drop offer dramatically. As part of his proposal, the commissioner wants to give officers broader discretion in deciding whether to make an arrest.
Instead of making an arrest, police officers would have the authority to write a summons for a low-level criminal charge. In some cases, such as where the person suspected of committing a crime does not have a prior record, police would be allowed to let the person go with just a warning.
Critics of the proposed policy change claim that police lose the right to request identification from someone they encounter on the street unless they do so in connection with investigation of a crime such as a misdemeanor or felony. Decriminalization of petty offenses would prevent police from demanding identification in many cases.
The announcement by the police commissioner highlights the debate over a tactic police have used for years to gather information about people they encounter on a daily basis. Criminal defense attorneys know that a petty criminal charge might seem insignificant when compared to serious misdemeanor and felony assault charges, but petty offenses can lead to arrest warrants and other problems for the people involved.
Those who do not want to see changes in the current system cite the low rate of crime in New York City. Their argument is that the system of enforcing even low-level offenses by filing criminal charges is the reason the crime rate is so low.
A person facing a criminal charge should seek legal advice from a criminal defense attorney. The consequences and penalties associated with a criminal conviction should not be taken lightly regardless of the charges.
Source: New York Times, "Bratton Explores Giving Warnings in Lieu of Arrests for Minor Offenses," J. David Goodman, April 30, 2015


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still scrambling like me?
amazon prime has us covered.
got an 11-13 year old girl to buy for? this pusheen plushie is sure to please.
these 3D butterfly wall stickers are also a legit option. kinda want them myself.
this stuff is great. hydrating AF and smells amazing. get it for your bestie.
fujifilm insta mini camera. give the gift of the original selfie.
this is our favorite game. just get it. get it for yourself even.
crystal decanter and tumblers for your smooth-ass uncle/brother/husband/dad.
field guide for wilderness survival. i fully admit that i would absolutely love it if someone got this for me. and i don't even camp!
silk breakfast at tiffany's mask. would surely give a smile.
noise cancelling headphones. for the frequent traveller.
pendleton blanket. a classic.
more great ideas here.


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Whether you are looking for an IBM Thinkpad T60 charger or a IBM Thinkpad R60 power cable, when you buy from Laptop Power UK, you can rest assured that you will receive an original IBM power lead. In other words you will get exactly the same product you would receive from IBM themselves at a price that wont hurt your pocket.
Whether you are looking to simply replace one IBM laptop charger for your own machine, or you are looking for a bulk quantity of IBM Thinkpad chargers for a corporate fleet of laptops – either way you will save a significant sum of money buying off Laptop Power UK with absolutely no compromise in laptop power adapter quality.
With all our full range of IBM laptop mains chargers held in the UK, and with all IBM Thinkpad adapters being able to be dispatched on a next day courier service if required – we represent the premier choice for ICT budget holders looking to save money out of their budgets. If you require any help or advice, one of our friendly technical sales team will be able to quickly answer your question – so give us a call!
This entry was posted on Sunday, November 14th, 2010 at 7:59 pm. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS feed.


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MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We build circles of moms who love each other like family. Our gatherings are where moms can meet to share their hopes, fears and insights, in a format that works with their schedules, that doesn't neglect their faith nor their womanhood, their motherhood nor their purpose, their heart nor their mind.
"Find your Fire" Never let the fire go out … When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful. Share with God's people who are in need. Welcome others into your homes. – Romans 12:11-13 Some women fear the fire, others tend their God-given fire and use it to light up their hearts and the world. Let's be those women. We will stop inhaling the fumes of our mistakes that tell us we are not enough, not a good enough mom, not pretty enough, not brave enough, not smart enough, not wealthy enough. Instead, we will choose to tend our God-given fire. We will love our children with an all-consuming love and use our words to warm the world. We will hold the torch up high and shed light on what matters most. When our homes feel cold, we'll light a fire. When a friend has lost her spark, we'll fan her flame. When the world seems dark, we will be an ember of hope. In order to do this we will, Live Expectantly Surrender Daringly Breathe Freely


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Long Horizon Line Necklace
Long Horizon Line Necklace
Thin bronze lines are centered within a u-shaped steel frame to create the horizon line of this necklace. Steel and bronze are hand formed and hammered to create classic modern shapes which hang from an oxidized sterling silver chain with a hammered bronze closure.
Measurements: Necklace chain measures 32" long. Pendent is approx. 1.75" x 1.5"
All jewelry is made to order
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Why I've Learned Welsh
Up until this year, I primarily considered Welsh to be a nag from teachers, an unnecessary complaint to get me to listen. Of course, I always understood that there was an element of importance in my ability to speak Welsh. I've been learning Welsh words between English sentences from when I could first speak – but it wasn't until I was about to embark on primary Welsh education that, at three, I began learning the language the way I would by the time I began school for real.
Of course, there were questions "Why do I have to learn this language? I get told off for speaking English! Isn't that the language everyone speaks?" Over time the questions slowly stopped coming, and by age thirteen they stopped altogether. I began seeing the importance of the Welsh language and my pride in being able to speak it began to swell.
Yet, my GCSE years in the subject of Welsh were dire. To be honest, some of the things we did bored me, because they were either not in enough detail or because there was no discussion. It felt as though sometimes we were being taught things just as a way of passing an exam – and the work of Saunders Lewis (Blodeuwedd) went unnoticed, because there was no time to have a discussion on the matter. But because Welsh was a subject where the first language students had harder work, everything felt rushed, and eventually I stopped enjoying the subject.
We went on a trip to North Wales at the beginning of our second year of GCSEs with the Welsh department. At the time, it felt normal to be underwhelmed because that was just the way the rest of the previous year had been. We read and learned poems, but it never felt like we could delve into much more context than what we were given on the revision sheet. Looking back now, I would love to return to North Wales on the same trip, because my appreciation has greatly improved and I now understand the importance.
I'm not sure what possessed me to decide to study Welsh for A Level. As you can probably tell, my enjoyment in the subject at GCSE obviously hadn't sparked a lot of enthusiasm. Yet within the first week of studying the subject it quickly became my favourite subject, and the best decision I would make this year.
As soon as I'd gotten used to the lessons, we began studying the poems. Similarly to GCSE, there are twelve poems on the A Level course. But by the time it came to the exam (the second half being grammar – a weakness of mine in Welsh) I enjoyed myself. You need context when you study any sort of poem for an exam (I'm also studying English Literature and Language – poems involved – and History) and unlike GCSE, the context used on these poems gave it a new light and thus it became more and more apparent that Welsh was a subject I valued. I've always enjoyed History, but this context felt more personal because for some poems, for instance 'Gwenllian' by Myrddin ap Dafydd, they speak of our Welsh past – a past forgotten mostly in South Wales and anglicised.
By studying Welsh in the way that I have done this year, it gives you so much more interest in your culture and makes you value being able to speak Welsh. I also studied the film 'Hedd Wyn' about the poet who'd died in the Passchendaele war (of which it recently commemorated 100 years) but had died before knowing he'd succeeded in his life-long dream of winning the Gadair at the National Eisteddfod. The film is available on YouTube for anyone who wishes to watch it (it has English subtitles). It shows the way Hedd Wyn's work overcame the war, and is still just as beautiful even today; also, the film was nominated for a Foreign Language Oscar so… worth the watch.
My favourite part of this year was doing another of Saunders Lewis' plays, Siwan. This time in such great detail. I had never realised how much our own Welsh history interested me until we studied the play. Surrounding the lives of Siwan (Princess of Wales) and her husband Llywelyn Fawr (the first of the Llywelyns and Prince of Wales) during the 1200s, in my everyday life I'd only vaguely remember studying such a period in Year 7. Yet, I knew so much and remembered things I never realised I even knew.
It's weird, I know. For those who know me, you'd know that my Welsh GCSEs were riddled with complaints. But because of my decision to study it this year, it's opened my eyes to so much more. This year I wrote my first Welsh language, full-length article for my coursework. And then I wrote a speech in Welsh for my coursework. And then I sent that speech to 'Hacio', and had it published. I Edited and produced two editions of my school's newspaper this year, 'Môr a Mynydd'.
And I've realised that if you have a passion for the language, no one will stop you from continuing to study it. Yes, I don't believe that second-language Welsh speakers should be taught words like 'popti-ping' but you can't change the whole world, right? I've realised that there are far more opportunities available for Welsh speakers getting involved in Journalism. It's terribly hard to start out in Journalism, but if I do get the opportunity to study Welsh and Journalism at Cardiff University as I hope, by the time I move up the ranks, I'll have more experience because there was more experience available to me.
If you teach Welsh effectively, you'll get a good response. This year, we started our class with 5 members, but one person had moved from Biology to Welsh, having heard how good the course is. And so now, I'm doubtful that any of the six of us is willing to give up the subject next year – and even if we lose a member of the class, it'll have been because there was no other choice. We've all enjoyed this year because of the passion and determination the teachers have. The interest they have in the subject sparks interest in their pupils because nothing is rushed. Thank you to them, I think above all else.
By Tirion Davies


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Tag Archives: payments
Bartomeu comes clean but do the figures add up?
Josep Maria Bartomeu faced the press for just over two hours this evening and took questions for the first time as Barça's new president. Bartomeu confirmed he will complete the mandate won by Sandro Rosell's team in the 2010 elections and … Continue reading
Posted in Josep Maria Bartomeu, Neymar, Opinion, Sandro Rosell Tagged Bartomeu, conference, details, elections, Josep Maria Bartomeu, N&N, neymar, Neymar's father, payments, press, referendum, transfer 3 Comments


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When things all fall into place!!
BYO: How do you describe your style?
MICAELA: I would say my style of photography is clean and calm with Scandinavian influences. I love working through movements and capturing the moments in between.
BYO: What inspired you to start shooting?
MICAELA: I started shooting on my dad's old analogue camera. I was probably about 10 years old and had no idea how to use it. Still, I would bring it everywhere and just play around. Since then it's just been a given, not the fact that I would work with it but that I would always shoot.
BYO: What's been the most exciting project you've worked on so far?
MICAELA: Last year I travelled over to Italy for a friend's wedding and later found myself in Paris for a couple days. I figured I should make the most of it and put together an editorial for One Magazine http://www.micaelamandorff.com/#/holder-beholder/. It was one of those shoots that shouldn't have worked out because I had so little time and no contacts but it all just fell in to place. The team I worked with was amazing and I hope to go back to shoot with them again soon.
BYO: What's been the most unusual location for a shoot?
MICAELA: I shot a fashion campaign in a construction supply yard last year. There were trucks coming in and out all morning so we had to constantly run in and out to get the shots. I absolutely loved shooting there though.
BYO: Who or what would be your dream subject?
MICAELA: My dream would be to do a fashion shoot in New Zealand or Norway. I love the dramatic landscapes that they offer.
BYO: What was the last camera you bought and how'd you find it?
MICAELA: My latest camera is the Nikon D850. I've been very happy with the result so far.
Website: http://www.micaelamandorff.com
Instagram: micaela.mandorff


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Constipation: Drinking water is essential: In the case of constipation, thinking about drinking well is as important as eating fiber or practicing physical activity.
Am I constipated?
Constipation is very common: it affects 20% of the population and women are 2 to 3 times more affected than men.
How do you know if you are constipated?
Constipation is defined by a simple test. If you have observed at least two of the following criteria during the last three months, you probably suffer from constipation:
- you go to the bowel less than three times a week;
- you must make an effort to evacuate your stools;
- you have hard stools;
- you have a feeling of blockage or obstruction in the anus;
- you need manual maneuvers to help you evacuate your stool.
The course of the water
Here is a small anatomical reminder to understand the critical role of water in transit.
The water we drink comes in the stomach. If it is empty, the water is evacuated in 30 minutes. If it is full, the water mixes with food for 3 to 4 hours. It passes through the small intestine where the water serves as a diluent for digestive products.
In the colon, the water is reabsorbed to 80% in standard time: this contributes to the proper functioning of the flora and adds to the volume of the stool (about 200 ml/day). When there is not enough water consumed every day, the stools are not sufficiently hydrated and do not promote the progression of the intestinal contractions which ensure a good transit ".
It is therefore understood that not drinking sufficiently helps slow transit or even constipation.
Different constipated profiles
If you experience constipation while you have never had a previous transit problem, blood in the stool or abnormal abdominal pain, make an appointment with your doctor. This may reveal a pathology (hypothyroidism for example). A colonoscopy will be prescribed for you to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Constipation may also be a side effect of treatment: antidepressants and anxiolytics, in particular.
There are four types of constipation:
- chronic constipation, which has a physiologically lazy intestine;
- constipated travel, whose transit does not support changes in habits (jet lag, food and drink different …);
- stressed constipation, where pressure plays a role in transit;
- constipated "too little," which does not eat enough fruits and vegetables and does not drink enough water.
Hydration, essential to transit
You should drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water per day (this is an average, variable from one individual to another, your activity, outside temperature, etc.).
All occasions are suitable for drinking water, but also tea, coffee, juices … Think about it:
- in the morning, on awakening: a large glass of water sets in motion the digestive tract;
- at the end of the morning, drink a glass of calm water;
- at every meal: contrary to popular belief, drinking during meals does not prevent digestion;
- systematically after peeing to compensate for the lost volume.
If you are not a big drinker, consider leaving a bottle of water close to you: on your desk when you work, in the kitchen, at the foot of the bed, etc. You can also opt for a mineral water rich in magnesium, with laxative virtues, like Hepar.
Other tricks to improve its transit
In parallel with proper hydration, apply these tips to avoid constipation:
- Increase your fiber intake, i.e., eat more raw vegetables, salads, dried fruits and oilseeds, pulses, fresh fruits (the famous prunes!), Whole-wheat bread or whole grains …
- Practice physical activity: walk, swim or do exercises that work the abs, they improve transit;
- Treat your intestinal flora (which plays a significant role in the transit), avoiding the factors of aggression (limit the cures of antibiotics to the strictly necessary) and enriching it with prebiotics or probiotics.


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It looks like Killian and Norah gave Oliver the
low down. You know, about how happy it makes me
when they pose in front of our biggest windows
where there's plenty of natural light. I love
that he's on board and doesn't mind being my
new subject!
I promise to deliver a non-cat post next!


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One of the books they assigned to us was A Framework for Understanding Poverty by Ruby Payne. The book was about the differences between how working class, middle class and wealthy class saw the world and the norms they followed. For example, if you went to a party, the book claimed that you would judge the food differently based on your class:
quantity of food (working class)
quality of food (middle class)
presentation (wealthy)
The book went on to describe other differences including settling arguments (fighting, discussion, lawsuits) and meeting new people.
The author was exposed to all three worlds: she grew up middle class, married a guy who grew up working class, and then moved into a wealthy community where she was a fish out of water. It was fascinating to me, because I observed that fish out of water experience with my parents, both children of immigrants and both growing up in inner city ghettos and then moving into the middle class suburbs where the unwritten rules were different.


text: An interesting title coming from a photographer. It came about because that is exactly what I have been doing the past couple days. Focusing... ...which has resulted in... Productivity. Focus Right now I'm taking a break to write this from a bunch of processing of images in my backlog. As I plodded along in my … Continue reading Productivity: Getting Things Done by Focusing


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The Risk of Being Nowhere/in Academic, Architects, Media, News /by Tim Nees
The Risk of Being Nowhere
By Tim Nees, Architect in Residence, College of Engineering, University of Canterbury
This article was first published in The Press on August 17 2016
Tim Nees is a practicing architect and Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Architects. He is currently Architect in Residence at the University of Canterbury's College of Engineering (Civil and Natural Resources). Amongst his many design awards, Tim is a recipient of the NZIA National Award for excellence in architecture.
As the Christchurch Rebuild intensifies and new buildings almost outnumber empty sites in the CBD, there is no doubting Christchurch has gained many fine works of architecture and even some great ones. Yet when the overall quality of the urban environment is discussed, concerned voices continue to be heard. 'Bland and boring', 'lacking vision', 'could be anywhere' are common complaints, often linked with a disappointment that too many issues identified in the 'Share an Idea' campaign have been ignored.
Some architects responded by requesting we suspend judgement and allow time for the city to settle, and that we need to accept this contemporary environment of 'steel and glass' as necessarily new and different to ways of creating buildings in the past. Others called for bolder designs, for architects to be more adventurous and create a new paradigm through innovative design where Christchurch can proudly become a global leader in urban architecture. Both responses fail to recognize [CG1] the disconnect between public expectations and built outcomes, and that this disconnect stems from a lack of connection to place, and a lack of substance, or meaning, in the new architecture. "Newness' and 'style' is not the issue. 'Meaning' and 'connection' is the issue.
One of the architect's most important responsibilities is being aware of how a building can and will affect people. Good buildings should feel appropriate, as if they rightly belong to the place and the time, the neighbourhood, and our lives. Good architecture responds to its place in the world, connects with that place and re-invests in the physical environment, the social environment, and the temporal environment.
Good buildings acknowledge memory. To build a relationship with memory is especially important in Christchurch, where many of our memory prompts have been removed. Whether we are aware of it or not, memory contributes to a full appreciation of spatial experience. Architecture has a responsibility to stimulate and sustain experiential memories of many kinds — from the sensual to the material, and to the immaterial such as light and shade — and so enriches user experience. These are the elements that construct the atmosphere of place and influence our experience of that place, and the memories we build as a consequence of our interactions. These same elements are what we take with us and talk about with others.
When a building carries meaning, we relate to the messages and stories it tells, and feel a sense of pride or gratitude or respect or love, a sense that it belongs and that we also belong and will experience the future of the city together. In this way the building earns our respect. In order for the city centre to be repopulated, Christchurch's buildings need to earn people's love and respect. The city needs people as well as buildings to regenerate a sense of collective effervescence and urbanity. Regeneration is not just about buildings, services, amenities and retail opportunities, it is 99% about people. Christchurch's architecture, therefore, needs to communicate meaningfully with people.
Shigeru Ban recently told a Christchurch audience that loved buildings endure. Even temporary buildings like his Cardboard Cathedral may last longer than intended if people love them too much to let them go. The buildings and places that have earned my love in the past five years include Ban's Transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and also the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Cathedral Grammar Junior School, the Christchurch City Council Building, the Margaret Mahy Playground, and the Bus Interchange. They each in their own way use form, material and detail to convey meaning and provide memorable experiences.
The Transitional Cathedral is a big white tent, an archetypal gathering place with a worship space that immediately uplifts. The exposed repetitive structure recalls the Gothic Revival interest in the bones and sinews of a building remaining visible, of which there were many fine examples in Christchurch. The Cathedral Grammar Junior School draws on a similar Gothic Revival language of posts, beams and buttresses that interlock in a way that makes sense. The exposed construction is perhaps didactic; the students can learn from observation how the building was built. The Bus Interchange likewise draws inspiration from the Gothic Revival, although the formal references have been abstracted and reworked into something quite different. The building demonstrates how contemporary design can maintain an intelligent connection with history and still be cutting edge.
Still unfinished, the Awly Building on Durham Street also ranks reasonably highly in my book. Through colour, pattern and texture it talks to the Law Courts and Provincial Chambers across the road. In that respect, it is lucky to have had an architectural context to respond to. Awly doesn't ignore the street edge; it provides generous pedestrian space and a promising looking courtyard on the western side. What's more, the columns, timber soffits and bronzed handrails give it scale and detail passers-by can interact with and appreciate.
A loss of meaning in cities is not a unique problem. It is a global issue. However, given Christchurch's circumstances and the regrettable decision to clear the city, it is perhaps more apparent here. But if we sadly agree meaningful buildings are an exception at present, shouldn't we then expect more architects take care to invest meaning in their work so that more buildings can establish a positive relationship with the community, and so make the exception the rule?
Read the original article here
FESTA – Coming Up!/in Academic, Architects, Festival, News, Other Buildings /by Tim Nees
FESTA, the Festival of Transitional Architecture is on over Labour Weekend and it's packed full of inspiring, creative events once again.
The theme for this year's festival is We Have the Means, which focuses on making the most of the resources available – in terms of people and their skills and knowledge; and reusable materials. FESTA all starts with a horde of creative people who imagine how Christchurch could be different. These imaginative people translate their visions of the kind of city they most desire into a live event or project to present.
The purpose of FESTA is to:
- create a platform for city-makers and citizens to imagine and experience Christchurch differently
- celebrate the culture of creativity, active citizenship and hope that has emerged in Christchurch since the earthquakes
- encourage more people to get involved in the remaking of their city, bringing tens of thousands of people into the city for one occasion
- provide a positive, collective experience of the changing central city
- stimulate longer-term change in how and who makes Christchurch.
The headline event this year is called Lean Means and is held on Saturday 22 October and will attract thousands. Head into the inner city to experience a temporary city made from reused materials, where spaces are transformed by incredible installations by students across Australasia.
FESTA is exploring sustainability through the reuse of waste materials in design and creative urban regeneration. Enjoy spectacular imaginative architectural installations, workshops, talks, pop-up projects, family events, foraging tours, live performance, artworks and more.
Visit the Festa Website to see the full programme of events here »
NZIA Canterbury Quick Fire Presentation Series August 2016/in Academic, News, Process /by Tim Nees
Five local branch members from the NZIA, including yours truly, presented the ideas behind their own homes, which are in various stages of design/construction/
Presentations provided plenty of insights into tricky sites, post-earthquake considerations, budgets, influences, materials and final outcomes.
Presenters were
– Tim Nees (me) presenting the design for my home on Scarborough Hill, consented and ready for construction.
– Dan Sullivan presenting his parent's recent award winning home he designed, 'Ophir' in Redcliffs.
– Mike Callaghan presenting his own small home in Huntsbury, was sort-of finished late 2014.
– Maria Chen presenting the design for her own townhouses on a back section in Sydenham, has just been granted resource consent.
– Michael O'Sullivan presenting his award-winning Lyttelton Studio Retreat, he designed and built himself.
NZIA Canterbury are aiming to make this a regular event so if you would like to be involved next time with your own home please let me know.
Lene Tranberg – Futuna Lecture Series 2016/in Academic, Architects, Event, Industry News, Lecture, Multi-Residential, News, Other Buildings, Residential /by Tim Nees
Danish architect Lene Tranberg will be delivering three lectures across New Zealand this March. Lene will talk about her architectural practise, highlighting her recent projects to demonstrate her approach, philosophy and influences.
Lene Tranberg has practiced in Copenhagen working in and managing the practice of Lundgaard and Tranberg formed in 1985. This is a significant and creative practice, which has authored some of the most important cultural projects in Europe. Winner of 5 RIBA European Awards, Danish Business Woman of the Year 2010, Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog and judge in international architectural competitions such as Mies van der Rohe Award (2015) and Stirling Prize Jury (2011). Through her work Lene has accrued significant and worthy international acclaim.
Auckland – 6.30pm Wednesday 16th March
Christchurch – 6.30pm Thursday 17th March
Wellington – 6.30pm Saturday 19th March
United States Speaking Tour/in Academic, Architects, Institutions, Lecture, News /by Tim Nees
New York – Spring Street The High Line
Recently I visited North America on a speaking tour for the university that spanned both coasts and a wide array of architecture. Two of the places I visited on the East Coast couldn't have been more different – New Hampshire and New York – they perfectly illustrated my lectures on 'genius loci' and the meaning and prevailing atmosphere of a place.
New Hampshire Gothic
Architectural Engineering/in Academic, Architects, Institutions, Lecture, News /by Tim Nees
As Architect in Residence at University of Canterbury, the inaugural delivery of my Masters Course on Integrated Design has now been completed. It was a pleasure to teach a class of highly motivated engineering post-grads.
We were also lucky to have so many professionals involved, giving guest lectures and participating in one of the assignments.
The course is being repeated in the first semester 2016 with enrolments now open.
What if… buying a house became more affordable?/in Academic, Architects, Comment, Event, Institutions, Lecture, Residential, Video /by Nicola Devine
- What if housing was more affordable?
- What if housing solutions were more achievable?
- What if architects and engineers could contribute creatively to the supply of housing, and at the same time, improve the environment?
But is owning a single family unit on a single piece of land the appropriate goal for all New Zealanders to aspire to at this point in the 21st century? Is this crisis really an opportunity to rethink the nation's goals not just in terms of housing but in terms of all the environmental and social factors that are present alongside housing? With an unprecedented demand to develop new homes in the Auckland region, and the complex housing requirements of Christchurch's rebuild, surely this point in time can be seen as not a crisis but a strategic opportunity for New Zealanders to address the way we design, build and invest in houses.
As part of my role as Architect in Residence, Department of Civil and Natural Resources Engineering at the University of Canterbury I presented a lecture in September 2015 examining the crisis as portrayed in the media and investigated ways architects have responded to this urgent need, drawing on local and overseas examples.


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We are a
FOR RESTAURANTs
What we do
Food Photography
Take eye-catching pictures of your food and restaurant that make your website and social pages aesthetically pleasing.
Web Development
Design eye-catching websites for restaurants that can increase visits.
Influencer Events
Organize Meet & Eats at restaurants with foodies that generate more exposure on social media.
Generating New Ideas.
Seizing untapped opportunities for restaurants.
Satisfied Clients
Our Latest Work
Website Development & Food Photography
Meet & Eat
Meet & Eats are a great opportunity for you to gain significant exposure on Instagram. During Meet & Eats, we invite foodies/food bloggers at your restaurant. The event can take place during opening hours or off-hours. Foodies pay a fixed price to attend the event. They get to network with other foodies and try all or most of the dishes on your menu.
Value for your restaurant
- The Meet & Eat allows increased exposure for your restaurant on Instagram through the food pictures posted by the foodies.
- The Meet & Eat allows you to acquire the rights to reuse the pictures posted by foodies.
- The Meet & Eat can create positive word-of-mouth as we make sure that foodies have a great experience and spread the word online and offline.
- We decide on a date and time for the Meet & Eat.
- We decide on the amount of tables that will be reserved for the event.
- We decide on the quantity of food to be served at each table and the price to be charged.
- Myum invites foodies/food bloggers to the event. Attendees are asked to make an online deposit before the event. The difference is paid on-site, plus taxes and service.
- Before the event, Myum confirms you the final number of attendees who will be present.
- The Meet & Eat takes place and Myum is there to coordinate everything.
Why we are different
We are creative.
We are perfectionists.
And most importantly, we are passionate about what we do…not to mention we love to eat.


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Fixing Game of Thrones
I used to love Game of Thrones, especially for the first four seasons or so. As the show started to run out of books, it became more and more of a mess.
I hated about 50% of season 6 and about 90% of season 7.
What did I hate about season 7? In no particular order:
The "romance" of no chemistry or point; the wight hunt for no reason; Dany being pretty blasé about losing a dragon (even though they are the ONLY reason she has any armies at all) because she finds her nephew dreamy; Tyrion, all of a sudden, being a complete idiot because the plot requires him to be dumber than Jaime; the Winterfell junk; Bran announcing that Jon is Lyanna's son-again- even though it was already figured out to end the previous season; Show Jon being dumb, dumb, dumb when Book Jon is not (he's ignorant, but learns. All of ADWD, that dude is making compromises and strategizing) ; Jon leaving Sansa in charge, forever, because the plot required him to; Suddenly remembering that Dragonstone has dragon glass, even though Stannis said as much to Sam in season 5; Dany not taking the Iron Throne, even though she has a much bigger army than Cersei and dragons; "Aegon Targaryen" when Rhaegar already has a son named Aegon, who at the time of Jon's birth, is still alive; shooting the far away dragon instead of the closer, much bigger dragon on the ground; the damn dragon chains!!!!
Generally, that the show has become completely about shock and spectacle and not at all about character.
So, here is how I'd fix it.
First, a few adjustments in previous seasons:
Jon Snow is a warg, as he is in the books. He is able to warg into his wolf.
Val, the Wildling Princess in the books, is a character in the show. Jon meets her at Hardhome and she travels with the rest of the Wildlings through the Wall. She is present for his resurrection. She has a more defined role in the show- she's a figure close to a völva , she understands and is well-versed in all the magic of the North and the old gods (warging, green seeing- she may be a warg herself.) She is also trained in negotiating and mediation in wildling culture and helps integrate the Free Folk south of the Wall. She and Jon become lovers before the fight for Winterfell. She is also close with Sansa. (She's my favourite minor book character- I'm putting her in the show- if only for this line: "Lord Crow is welcome to steal into my bed any night he dares. Once he's been gelded, keeping those vows will come much easier for him.")
Jon let Rickon die in the Battle for Winterfell. It causes him a lot of grief. He also has a lot of pain (from being stabbed) and angst about his resurrection. He's not as he was in earlier seasons.
Sansa told Jon about the Knights of the Vale. He spent much of that battle stalling for their arrival.
Jon had to show his stab wound scars to the assembled lords after the battle is won to demonstrate that he has not broken his Night's Watch vows. It's a trial scene and some explanation about how/why he deserted.
Jon is not crowned King in the North. Instead, he supports Sansa as Lady of Winterfell and is her war leader. He advises her and they are partners, but she is recognized as next in line as Ned's heir, her brother Robb, died without an heir.
Ghost is a thing again.
The Sand Snakes are not in the show, but rather Arianne Martell is a character. Dorne is so awesome in the books, but other than Oberyn, was a complete waste of time in the show. A strong, interesting Arianne fixes this.
Littlefinger is shoved off a cliff by Sansa.
Now, toss out nearly everything in season 7.
Instead, this general outline over two seasons:
Sansa, though Lady of Winterfell, finds it very difficult to live at Winterfell due to the trauma she endured there. She and Jon decide that, in an effort to prepare for the Night King fight, she and a small party (including Brienne) will go to an abandoned Dragonstone to mine dragonglass and have it shipped north. Davos suggests that Pod seek out Gendry in King's Landing to recruit him to make weapons out of the dragonglass. Having a specific and vital task away from Winterfell helps Sansa heal. The party is very small so as not to attract attention.
Jon will stay north to oversee other preparations and the training. He also negotiates with the Northern lords on behalf of Sansa (more or less what Book Jon told Stannis to do in ADWD.) Val helps him and advises him in his negotiations.
Sansa is at Dragonstone when Dany, plus armies and dragons, arrives. Sansa is taken hostage as a bargaining chip to get the North in line. Sansa and Tyrion reunite, and he notices how different she is.
Dany fights the same "Field of Fire" battle against the Lannister forces, but she takes all three dragons. Viserion is killed, but Dany takes King's Landing and the Iron Throne.
Cersei survives, but escapes King's Landing with Jaime. For the first time since the first few episodes of the series, Cersei has left the city and is on the run.
Sansa is, once again, a hostage in King's Landing, though with different captors. Nothing particularly terrible happens to her, she just can't leave.
Dany summons Jon Snow south to bend the knee in exchange for Sansa.
Before Jon can leave Winterfell, Bran shows up and tells him all about his heritage, who his parents are and that he is a Targaryen. Bran also tells Jon that he is no longer Bran Stark and cannot be Lord of Winterfell.
Few other things: Rhaegar didn't get an annulment, he just took Lyanna as a second wife, as Targaryens, including Aegon the Conqueror, have done. Sam could just explain that, find proof of second marriage rather than an annulment. It's not a secret that Targs do that. Jon's real name is not Aegon, because Rhaegar already had a son named that and also that's dumb.
Jon, plus Val and Davos, rides south with that knowledge. Val tells him that he's got the blood of the First Men (which allows him to warg) through his mother, Lyanna as well as the blood of the dragon through his father, Rhaegar.
The idea of another Stark daughter (as well as Lady of Winterfell) being kidnapped by a Targaryen fires up the Northern lords and they rally around Jon Snow.
Jon arrives in King's Landing to negotiate with Dany for the release of his sister. He agrees to bend the knee but also requests Dany's aid in his fight against the Night King. Having just won her throne, Dany is reluctant to leave King's Landing for, in her eyes, a vague threat.
Val discovers that Dany has only ever ridden her largest dragon Drogon, but doesn't have as close a bond with her other remaining dragon. Val also discovers that the dragon is named Rhaegal, named for Rhaegar (Jon's newly discovered father.)
Val suggests that Jon may be able to warg into the dragon, as he has warging abilities from his northern roots as well as dragon blood. He is successful and the two bond. Dany is unaware of this and dismisses them. They all (Sansa included) take their leave but as they head north, Jon calls Rhaegal to follow them. Jon does this both because he wants the dragon against the Night King but also to encourage Dany to come North to retrieve it.
Arya has ridden south from killing the Freys at Riverrun in hopes of catching up with Cersei.
Meanwhile. Cersei is on the point of getting the Iron Bank (which has serious concerns about Dany and her dragons) to pay for sell swords and dragon killing siege equipment.
Jaime and Cersei argue, and Jaime kills Cersei. When Cersei is dead, it is revealed that Jaime is actually Arya wearing Jaime's face. Arya has killed Jaime to get close enough to Cersei to kill her.
Dany is incensed when she discovers that Jon has taken Rhaegal, especially since she lost Viserion getting the Iron Throne. She, plus Drogon and armies, head north to confront Jon and Sansa.
Arya, with her kill list complete, rides/sails north with Dany's army wearing the face of a Dothraki. She has the idea to assassinate Dany when she hears that Dany is heading to confront Jon and Sansa, but she isn't able to get close enough.
While this is happening, Bran didn't realize that passing back through the Wall has diminished it's magic repellant. The Night King and his army is now able to climb the Wall. The Night King's army has marched south to meet the Northern army, leaving disaster it's in wake.
Dany arrives at White Harbour and finds it annihilated. Jorah tells her this was once a thriving city, so she understands that something destructive and malevolent is at play.
Dany meets up with Jon Snow and recognizes that Rhaegal and Jon are bonded. Rhaegal will not allow harm to come to Jon, and she does not want to kill Rhaegal. Drogon will also not fight Rhaegal. She recognizes that Jon is her brother Rhaegar's son, which Bran confirms.
They agree to a cease fire and to fight together to stop the Night King.
Arya reveals herself to Sansa and Jon. They are reunited.
Showdown with Night King- mass casualties, including both dragons and Ghost, Jorah and possibly Arya, but the Night King is defeated.
Dany recognizes that Jon is heir to the Iron Throne, but Jon allows her to take it by right of conquest. Partly because they respect each other and partly because both their armies are depleted and neither has a dragon, they compromise and split the Seven Kingdoms in half.
Jon gets crowned King in the North and gets the North (including what was Beyond the Wall), the Riverlands, the Vale.
Dany is crowned Queen in the South, gets the Crownlands, the Stormlands, the Reach, the Westerlands.
And technically, Dorne but Dorne is a pain in her ass for a couple of decades. The Sand Snakes silliness from the show aren't a thing, but rather Arianne Martell is central to all of this Dornish uprising.
The Iron Islands becomes its own kingdom, as was agreed.
Jon makes Sansa in charge of the Vale and the Riverlands. Dany grants Tyrion Casterly Rock.
The Dothraki return to the East, but the Unsullied remain as Dany's city guard.
Dany can't have a child and becomes obsessed Asshai and Valyria. She searches for more dragon eggs. She never finds them. She's a good queen but not a happy one. She sometimes dreams of returning east, which is ironic as when she was east, she dreamed of the Iron Throne.
Jon marries Val in front of the heart tree at Winterfell. Dany eventually names their second born, a daughter, her heir.
Jon is faded/ distant and his stab wounds ache, he is in near constant pain- maesters suspect it's due to his resurrection, the loss of so much of his family, and the loss of his wolf. There is a sadness in Jon.
The magic that rose up to counter the Night King recedes, and Westeros becomes more rational. Out of the Middle Ages, into the Renaissance. Like England after the War of the Roses.
Sansa is very, very happy in charge of things. The Riverlands love her because she looks so much like Catelyn and they are reminded of House Tully. Sansa marries someone very nice. And they all eat lemon cakes.


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Opponent Scouting: Houston Rockets. 7-10.
(FYI this is post is made with the assumption that Dwight Howard plays tonight.)
Tonight the Rockets make their way to Detroit to play the Pistons at 7:30pm EST. Both teams are on the second night of a back to back, the Rockets coming off a win against the Knicks and the Pistons coming off a loss to the Nets.
The Them: You have probably heard quite a bit about the Rockets at this point. The team that was expected to be a front runner in the race to dethrone the Warriors, is currently 7-10, fired it's coach, and has a superstar who is shooting like crap. (James Harden is shooting just 40%) And both their offense (99.7 OffRtg.) and defense (106.3 DefRtg) are really struggling. Dwight Howard has been hurt and has missed some games, and Ty Lawson has been downright terrible. The reality is that almost no one on this team is playing the way they were expected to before the season started. While I would think that they will turn it around at some point, there is absolutely something broken with this team. As in, them turning it around will not just be as simple as riding out the storm and waiting for (insert factor here) to regress to the mean a little bit. The team is shooting like crap from deep, which is not actually that big a surprise since there are not actually that many good shooters on the team. And the defense has been downright awful. (their DefRtg is 5th worst in basketball) The team relies hugely on James Harden, who trails (barely) only Westbrook and Cousins in usage rate. They play the famous "Morey-Ball" where they shoot tons of 3s, layups, and free throws. And they do just that. The problem is that they can't hit any of them, they have shot even worse than the Pistons from deep (which, wow. That is not easy to do) only they also take almost 6 more attempts more per game. Outside of Harden, Dwight Howard is still really good, even if he has fallen a long ways. Trevor Ariza can shoot the 3 (we think) and also can defend. Patrick Beverly is a freaking defensive menace on the perimeter, and Terrance Jones is actually playing ok based on him enjoying good returns on his newly added 3pt shot. (shooting 41% from deep) Off the bench, Ty Lawson has seen his minutes fall off a cliff, and he has also played like absolute garbage, but it would be foolish to assume that he will keep that up all season. Marcus Thorton can still score in bunches on occasion, Corey Brewer runs out in transition all the time, Clint Capela is actually shaping up to be a real player, and Jason Terry is somehow still canning 3s and running all over the place. In theory there are a lot of good players here (obviously why people thought they would be good this year) but it is not working. A lot falls on Harden really struggling with his efficiency, but the rest of the team has done poorly. Although I am still nervous, because the Pistons have had some bad luck with catching teams on the wrong night so far this year.
Matchups to watch:
Andre vs. Dwight: This is pretty obvious, not only are these two really good in a lot of the same ways. But Andre is constantly being compared to Howard which will certainly result in both of them playing with a little extra umph tonight. It will be interesting to see how Andre covers the paint in this game, because Harden will certainly get some penetration that will require Drummond to help on, but that opens up lobs. Andre is good enough that he should in theory be able to stop those at the same time, but it is always different once the game starts. Honestly though, I feel good about this matchup. Howard is a lot smaller than Andre, and Howard is still a bit hurt. Howard also is not exactly known as a big time battler (although he is not nearly as bad as his reputation on this front.) but Andre legit gets pissed and just destroys everyone in front of him with some regularity. Regardless, this will be fun to watch these two battle inside. Both guys are used to controlling the paint pretty well every night, and now they will really have to battle for that right.
KCP vs. Harden: Harden has struggled all year, and KCP has shut down every guy he has faced. (outside of an outburst by Crawford) This figures to be a good matchup for KCP, who is smart about avoiding fouls, and is also easily big enough to play with Harden. And given how poorly Harden has shot, this should be a bad game for Harden. KCP will generally keep him from the easy paint shots that he loves to feast on, which will cause Harden to lean on his lazy(ish) tendencies of jump shooting. HOWEVA, this should still scare you, for the same reasons that I was scared by Crawford. Harden is a lot better shooter than he has been so far. He figures to explode soon (and already has on several nights. I believe he has scored 50 points 3 times already) and if that happens, then no matter how good KCP plays on defense, it will not matter. The other concern is that, if Harden gets KCP into foul trouble, the Pistons might be doomed. There is not any good backup for KCP, and no one else will have any shot at guarding Harden, Jackson has looked slow with his leg hurt, and Johnson would likely gift a free throw marathon for Harden. So there is a lot of potential for this to go horribly wrong for the Pistons, but I am still pretty confident it will be ok, because KCP has been THAT good on defense so far this year. (and FWIW if he shuts down Harden it is officially acceptable to lose your shit over how good a defender KCP has become. Like go streaking or something, I'm sure the police will understand and not arrest you, they might even join you.)
Jackson vs. Hurt(?)/bad decisions: I think he is hurt, but regardless, if he is playing he needs to play better than he has the past couple of nights. He has made better decisions passing the ball lately, but he cannot keep up the diet of shots he has had. If he is so limited that he has no choice but to pull up for contested jumpers, then he should just pass it and hope someone else can do something. It is not a great option, but he is not good as a contested jump shooter. He needs to be smarter, but he has also shown a bit of a thing for rising to the occasion/bouncing back strong after a bad loss. So I think he will probably be ok this game, although it should be remembered that he will have to be on his toes whenever he has the ball because Patrick Beverly is a awesome defender.
The Pistons vs. Pace: The Pistons have generally not played at a super fast pace, but they will probably play at a high pace tonight. For one the Rockets play really fast so they don't have a ton of choice. But also the Rockets are truly horrific in transition defense, as such the Pistons will likely be looking to push on every chance they get. If they can make the right decisions and take advantage then they will have a much easier night.
Eternal sadness vs. Not eternal sadness: The bench gotta show up. It's been a wee bit better the last few games, but until they are better for an extended time I am going to worry about it. Also given the expected high pace of the game the bench might need to give a few more minutes than usual.
Blake vs. Lawson: Assuming Blake is still playing (I hope it is because Dinwiddie is still hurt) this could be an issue. Lawson has been a literal pile of poop so far, but he is super fast with the ball, which is the worst thing for Blake to try and deal with. As such, Steve Blake might end up being just what the doc ordered for Lawson.
In conclusion
Cackle with knowing glee if:
Andre is clearly much better than Howard and is dominating his soul all night.
Harden is taking lots of bad shots and missing them.
KCP causes naked people outside.
Jackson has a bounce back game.
The Rockets are still broken.
Run for the hills if:
Harden is hitting everything/gets KCP into foul trouble.
Jackson is still doing lots of stupid stuff.
Dwight has taken what Andre is doing personal and has a throwback game and dominates Andre.
The Rockets suddenly look like the running and gunning monster everyone expected.
Opportunities for me to look stupid:
Jackson has a bounce back game.
Harden is shut down to a crazy extent by KCP
Pistons win handily.
This should actually be pretty fun, the Rockets play at a fast pace, and there are 2 matchups that pit strength against strength. And I think that the Pistons will have a bounce back game.
What do you think? Think KCP will dominate Harden or the other way around? Think I'm stupid? Let me know! We all get smarter!