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Grilled Steak Caprese Salad with the most delicious savory reduced balsamic vinaigrette, you won't want to miss a drop!
I'm pretty sure there is no such thing as STEAK Caprese Salad. I'm not sure, I've never googled it to be honest, but that's really what this is when you dissect it.
All I knew was I wanted to make steak the other night, but I didn't want all the heavy usual sides that go with it. So I decided to make a salad with what I had on hand.
There are no fast hard rules when making this salad. But one thing I will tell you is, if you skip the balsamic reduction then you are missing out on the whole point of this salad!
If you are familiar with balsamic reduction, then you know its one of the most out of this world delicious things ever, especially over steak.
If you aren't familiar with it, you simply boil your balsamic vinegar until it reduces and usually stinks up your entire house in the process, but it is sooo worth it, trust me.
But it can also be quite strong. It's perfect on our Caprese Salad with Eggplant because it's just drizzled on. But in this case, it's an entire salad, and well, that would be too much.
So we made a type of dressing with it by adding some mayonnaise, lemon juice, milk and Dijon mustard and drizzled it all over the top right before serving it.
OMG !!!! Soooooooo good!
This salad came together by simply grilling 2 sirloin steaks on the grill. I didn't marinade them, I just added Montreal steak seasoning and a little more sea salt and got them on a hot grill. I cooked it for probably 4 minutes on each side and let it rest while I made the rest of the salad.
I already had some mushrooms and onions in the fridge, well because I always do really. I can't get enough of them. But if you're a normal person, then get yourself some baby bella mushrooms and an onion and saute them in a hot skillet with a little olive oil, salt and pepper and let them soften and caramelize.
I grabbed some mixed greens, some spinach, feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, homegrown tomatoes, there's some avocado in there too somewhere I just can't see it, bacon, strawberries …
Anyway, there's just a bunch of things happening in this bowl. The point is there really is no exact recipe. I added the cooled steak that I sliced ever so thinly and drizzled the balsamic dressing all over it.
Oh mama! For real, this was UH-mazing. So many flavors. The meatiness of the steak with the onions and mushrooms with the caprese flavors of the mozzarella and tomatoes. It was just incredible.
My son of course added a little homemade ranch to the scene, but that's what he does!
Caprese Steak Salad with Mozzarella, Tomatoes in a Reduced Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 1 Cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons Mayo
- 2 Tablespoons Organic Whole Milk
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Organic Lemon Juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 Cooked Sirloin Steaks (or steak of choice), cooled and thinly sliced
- 3–4 Cups Organic Mixed Greens (spinach, kale, romaine, etc)
- 1 Handful Organic Grape Tomatoes
- 3–4 slices Cooked Organic Nitrate Free Bacon, crumbled
- 6–10 Fresh Mozzarella Balls
- Sauteed and Caramelized Onions and Mushrooms
- 1 Cup Cubed Ham
- 1 Cup Organic Feta Cheese
- 1 Organic Avocado, sliced or cubed
- Balsamic Dressing drizzled on top
- Other options: grilled asparagus, fresh basil, grilled corn
- Bring the vinegar to a boil in a small saucepan. Once it reaches a boil quickly lower the heat and simmer it, stirring often, until it reduces by half (approximately 8-10 min.)
- Meanwhile, whisk the remaining ingredients together and slowly drizzle and whisk into the vinegar
- Begin by placing the salad in a large bowl
- In rows, place the feta cheese, tomatoes, onions and mushrooms, avocado, corn, bacon, ham etc.
Recipe Source: HappilyUnprocessed.com
I used all organic ingredients whenever possible when making this recipe, and hope you do too! 🙂


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About US
"common sense is sound practical judgment concerning everyday matters"
Based in Devon, common sense is a design studio who combine humour and realism in their work. engaged in all disciplines of design in a responsible and purposeful way.
common sense studios are the only open access print studio in plymouth where affordable screen printing facilities, services and workshops gives artists and makers' the space to be able to undertake their own work using silk screen and fine art based techniques.

subset: commoncrawl


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Recess guardians program teaching Loon Lake students to be more inclusive
With cell phones and social media, outdoor games at recess seem like a thing of the past, but a school in Loon Lake is working to curb that and improve socialization between students with its 'recess guardians'.
Ernie Studer School Teacher Jody Freyman said a presentation was made in November to teach Grade Four and Five students the recess guardian program; how to play with each other but also how they can teach older and younger students the games as well.
"It's all about getting back to how we played when we were kids and playing games with each other," she said.
The presentation also taught students how to have fun with very little equipment while also taking games kids already know, like rock-paper-scissors, and teaching different ways to play them.
Recess guardians was formed by the Blue Cross in 2008.
According to its testimonial page, teachers and administrators have seen an increase of bullying during recess and in some cases, solicitation for gangs, drugs and prostitution.
"They (the kids) loved the presentation, they were super excited and planned activities to play with little kids," Freyman said. "Lots of them took on a leadership role, planning games with the internet and finding equipment, then taking the games outside and playing with younger students."
The leaders were dubbed the recess guardians.
Months after the presentation, kids in Loon Lake are still planning different games.
"It's been a really positive influence and it's shown the kids they can play with anyone and not just kids in their own grades while being more accepting of differences," Freyman said.
While the recess guardians are the students themselves, Freyman added staff pitches in as well, helping them plan activities and gather materials.
So far, Ernie Studer School is the only one in the Northwest School Division to have implemented the recess guardian program and Freyman said she recommends other schools to implement it as well.
According to the program, schools which implement the program have a proven track record with a decrease in bullying and exclusivity on the playground, better teamwork, an increased interest in physical activity and improved study performance.
Author: email@example.com
On twitter: @coltonswiderski


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2018 RBC Canadian Junior Championships - Day 4 Recap/
Another hot day in Winnipeg for the fourth day of competition at the 2018 RBC Canadian Junior Championships, but the heat did nothing to slow down a number of SwimBC athletes.
Camryn Stannard (NRST) kicked things off for BC in the "A" finals, as she took the bronze in a close 13-14 girls 200Free race with a time of 2:06.08. A short time later, Chantel Jeffrey (ISC) matched that with a bronze-medal performance of her own in 2:03.78 in the 15-17yr. girls event. Her teammate, Kyla Ross was two places back in 2:05.46, while Amanda McCallum was seventh in 2:06.08.
Raben Dommann (CHENA) had a busy night once again, getting going with the 200 Free where he came from well back to capture the boys' 16-18yrs. bronze medal; he followed that up at the end of the evening with a masterful performance in the 1500 Free, improving his PB by over five seconds and just over half a second away from the winning time at Trials last week in Edmonton. Justin Fotherby (KISU), meanwhile, in the 14-15yr. boys race, similarly improved his time by a significant margin, dropping his PB by almost 12 seconds to win the bronze in a time of 16:23.98.
The 100 backstroke events saw Haley Klenk (SPART) attack right from the start, then hanging on by just 2/100th second to claim the silver medal in the 15-17yr. girls race in a lifetime PB of 1:03.07, while Tayden De Pol (NRST) did a great job in bouncing back from a disappointing result in the 200 Back earlier in the meet to take the silver in the 14-15yr. boys, also in a lifetime PB with 0:57.47.
Ashley McMillan completed a very busy day of racing, as she came off a close 4th-place finish in 100 Back to win the bronze in 200BR just over half an hour later, with a time of 2:40.78. Andrea Kraetzer (KWIC) finished fifth with a lifetime best of 2:44.71.
Emma Myburgh (ISC) followed up her victory in the 100BR yesterday by taking a narrow lead through most of the 15-17yr. girls 200BR before just barely being out-touched at the finish to claim the silver in 2:34.56, while Tina Guan (CHENA) picked up her first medal of the meet with a 2:35.51 for bronze.
The 14-15yr. boys final saw Dylan Kormendy (ISC) finish fifth in 2:26.98, while Michael Schmidt (UVPCS) was just behind him in 2:27.10.
Competition in the pool wraps up on Sunday with the same schedule as previous days, and then the Canadian Junior Championships wrap up on Monday at St. Malo Provincial Park with the 1.5 and 3.0K open-water races.
- Swimming Canada event page
- Timelines (Central Time)
- Online Results
- Live streaming (prelims 9am CDT; finals 5:30pm CDT)


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I love a chai latte, the warm spices just suit this time of year perfectly and another favourite drink of mine is a traditional hot chocolate. Normally, I've not usually a fan of flavoured hot chocolate as I find them too sweet for my taste buds, but after having tried one of the seasonal special hot chocolates in Starbuck's a few weeks back I'm now a convert.
Whilst in the kitchen this weekend I got thinking about a post-diner Christmas desserts as Christmas pudding can be quite heavy. I wanted something that wasn't going to sit in my stomach until the next morning, but was indulgent enough to be the finale of an epic festive dinner. I often drink hot chocolate in the evenings to get my sweet fix after dinner and decided to re-create one of my favourite drinks in dessert form.
A chocolate mousse seemed like a sensible option, simple to whip up at a time when the kitchen can be a stressful time to be right now. After seeing this for a homemade chai spice mix, I knew that I had to use it to make this easy chocolate mousse recipe.
- 1 large avocado
- 2 tsp chai spice mix
- 4 tbsps raw cacoa powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 tbsps maple syrup
In a food processor or blender, whizz up all of the ingredients until smooth and well combined. Transfer the mixture into bowls and chill for an hour in the fridge to set.
Sprinkle with your favourite toppings and indulge in chocolate heaven.
Believe it or not, this feels seriously indulgent mainly due to the avocados natural creaminess. To make it even more decadent you could add some melted dark chocolate or dairy free chocolate, but it's really gorgeous just as it is.
To make mine extra special and Christmassy I topped it with whipped cream (non-vegan) and added a candy cane for fun. Of course you can add what ever toppings you like to suit your dietary requirements and tastes, but either way I know you are going to love it!
This is my last post before Christmas…only 2 more sleeps to go! I want to wish you all a magical Christmas with your loved ones. Eat lots, drink lots and have the best time ever!
What are you having for your Christmas lunch dessert? Do you like add-in flavours in chocolate or do you like it plain?
*I was commissioned to create this recipe by


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Tuğgen (happily pronounced too-genn) is by far the most qualified and experienced Turkish tutor of the North West of England. With Tuğgen's provable experience in teaching Turkish, you will start conversing with your loved ones in Turkey straightaway.
Tuğgen started her teaching career at a young age in 1999 with a bunch of primary school pupils wanting to learn English. Although the course ran for only one semester, Tuğgen felt certain at the end of it that she had to become a teacher to experience more of the same achievement.
Bearing the objective to be more useful to her future learners, Tuğgen went on to study English Language and Literature at Ankara University and graduated with a first class honours degree.
By 2004, Tuğgen had become a popular language tutor in Bursa teaching both English at a private school and Turkish to those whose husbands / wives / partners / neighbours / friends came from Turkey. This followed the big move over to England and Tuğgen started working as the Turkish tutor of Bolton College and eventually the University of Manchester.
Tuğgen has gained invaluable experience over the years with a great number of learners. Since everyone has different reasons to learn Turkish, Tuğgen has created her own methods to accommodate each student's specific needs.
If you wish to find more about Tuğgen's Turkish private lessons online, on a one-to-one basis or in a classroom environment, contact Tuğgen Collard today.


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This family is beyound gorgeous. They inspire me and support me. They are family so when I say they are gorgeous I have absolutely no bias what so ever. They love and give love. They gave me my first coffee grounder this Christmas. The gift was unexpected, which made it ever better, But that it was my most favorite gift of all. The coffee the last couple of weeks have been divine! So when I say they are a gorgeous lovely family it is because it is the total truth, not because they opened up this coffee lover to a whole new world of coffee goodness. That is not the reason at all.
I fell behind on sharing my sessions. I was too busy. And when I came up for air, I was mentally and emotionally drained for the holidays. I have taken a breath of fresh air and am ready to start showing you some truly lovely family goodness. Here is this lovely video for you. It is every image. It is quite long. But can show you how a session with me is a go with the flow, lets have fun session.
Please hit the heart button. Leave a comment. Make my blog relevant! LOL I need your help to be seen.
Thank you to the family for their blessings in sharing their session, in all their silliness and perfect imperfections.
And thank you for stopping by!


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I Couldn't resist this share from Melissa because I am such a Star Wars fan and also love her passion to share her journey of sobriety! It is definitely not easy and a huge life change but when we commit to it, amazing things happen and our lives become so much more manageable. If you want to read more of her blogs click the link HERE and as always I am thankful to her for allowing me to share her blogs!
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"Yes, a Jedi's strength flows from the Force. But beware of the dark side. Anger, fear, aggression; the dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight. If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will, as it did Obi-Wan's apprentice." -Yoda
When I was a little girl I had already struggled with low self-esteem and self-worth, and I also separately had these grandiose ideas of myself, the world around me, and fantasies of another life greater than that of an ordinary person. I would say this only started around age 9 or so when I attended a show at Rainbow Stage. It was the first time I was exposed to a live counterpart to a reality that was shiny, glittery, robust, and was repackaged in an idealized way. It was then that I wanted to be in musical theater, and be a famous actress, not just an actress, but a famous one. That fame and prestige would take me away from the world where I was made fun of and rejected and take me into a world where I could finish every night with a rousing applause.
There was also a conflict that I have never really spoken about before, which is that I grew up being told that I was intelligent, unusually absorbent of great amounts of information, talented, but was always misusing my potential or having people telling me I was applying my potential the wrong way. I should be a lawyer or doctor or something of that nature because of my mind, but because my mind functioned in a different way and was more intellectual in understanding theories, philosophies, and the math and science of art, it always felt like I wasn't living up to a grandiose idea or image of what other people wanted me to be. So I was always caught in this disproportionate sense of confusion and sense of worthlessness because whatever I seemed to do I was not living up to an image or ideal, so this dysfunctional grandiose image of a life that could rescue me from this daily suffering.
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In classical Greek mythology, the story of Narcissus is a bit dated, because I think there is a vast difference between Vanity and Narcissism. When you are vain, you are in love with your image, no matter how you look or are. Vanity to me has always been like the Queen in Snow White, and looking in the mirror every day and telling yourself you are the most beautiful. Narcissism is a bit more complex because I think it's not loving the actual image of yourself, but a self-inflated fantasy image of yourself. Essentially, you paint a different image of yourself in your head, and you become attached to that false reality. You identify yourself as that person, even though they are not the real you. So when I was young, I did not love myself as I was, because she was unpopular, not listened to, not understood or felt special. The person that was growing inside my imagination, my fantasy world, the famous actress with the agent, adoring fans, fame, fortune, I kept loving her more, even though she wasn't a reality, but I would make her one.
In the real world I had limitations, and I never liked being told my limitations, because they reminded me I was human, flawed, imperfect, and I couldn't handle that, I had to somehow be invincible, always praised, and that was my blind-spot. If I wasn't getting adulated or praised, then I was failing, and I already suffered so much from feeling like a misfit or outcast, that failing was simply not an option, because I was already a loser, and I had to show and prove to everyone that I wasn't a loser. I would definitely say the noise in my head never subsided because I was either always continually told I was brilliant but was wasting my potential that everyone seemed to have an idea about, or I was told people didn't understand me so I always felt alienated from other people. I always identified with others but I never felt people identifying with me, so I felt disconnected from the real world in the real world, so this grandiose fantasy world in my head where my life had no limits and everyone loved me seemed more and more alluring.
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I always wondered why I was so susceptible to darkness, to addiction, and why I fell as hard and as far as I did. It's because feeling worthless, and that inner dragon of grandiosity, those fierce unabashed emotions are sisters, they are intimately connected. When I was nineteen this feeling of grandiosity really became a great beast inside me that would become out of control very soon. It was a year of losing my grandparents, two people who loved me unconditionally, being rejected by someone and a group of people who I believed to be friends, losing the acting career I thought I would always have, having my first feature film not turn out the quality I wanted, and people pointing out my flaws and limitations left and right, I fled, and I fled hard. I started drinking, sleeping with guys, working two-three jobs to move away, and moved away in a firestorm. Ever since I was nineteen it became a manic obsession to become that painting in my head of the famed actress, but continually searched for other careers, other paths that would essentially give me the same result. Drugs and alcohol are just a part of that, but still a huge part of that.
When I have struggled in sobriety, and now I have figured out why, it's because I haven't been able to handle moments of real reality, or coming awake to something about myself that's not perfect or flattering, something that's human. I have had fantastic periods in sobriety, where I have been open to constructive criticism, accepted my powerlessness over everything, but especially drugs and alcohol, but on those days I became tired, overwhelmed, falling back into old habits, grandiosity, and dysfunctional thinking came back with a vengeance. Then I saw myself as a worthless failure again, someone who saw their humanity is revealed to them as a reason for self-harm and self-destruction, because I always saw the human being as the one not worth loving, but the idealized one as being the one worth loving, that's who I always wanted people to love. But, guess what? People do love the flawed, broken human being, the one who hasn't loved herself, and in doing so, their love, and unconditional love not just for myself but for themselves have taught me to also love myself the real me, the whole me.
So even though I had a go of dreams of fame, fortune, and material success, I hadn't let go of the falsified idealized image of myself, I hadn't let go of my narcissism. I hadn't seen that though, and because I hadn't seen that with my heart, and soul, I could not relate to my narcissistic self at a healthy distance, and start working at tearing down that image. It's not going to happen overnight. It's going to take some time in loving the face in the mirror to fully deconstruct the portrait of false perfection in my mind.
Thanks again to Melissa to letting us share this and share her journey!
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Coming Forward: The Cost
The dust has mostly settled from last week's family debacle. I'm not done hurting, though. Not by a long shot; but, I'm most certainly done with my "family." I'm not done because my husband, when he read even a fraction of what was said to me, said, "never again;" I'm not done because I'm hurt just this time. I have, literally, no family left. None.
I'm done because I'm ready to find a way to start the grieving process. I'm done because I cannot allow myself to yo-yo back and forth to an unhealthy environment, hoping that this time it will be different, that this time, I will get what I need, only to be destroyed a little more. It has to be over for good. It's amazing what health crises do for your outlook on life.
I knew it would take time. But, I didn't anticipate the fallout. I didn't anticipate that relatives that haven't seen me in decades, would come out of the woodwork, just tell let me know what a piece of shit they think I am. No matter how self-assured you think you are, those things ding at your confidence, if only for a minute. They knock you over like one of those inflatable punching clowns; you pop back up, but you most assuredly go down for a second.
So, before I put a nail in that coffin that is my family, there's something that's important for me to express, and just get over with. I think these experiences are probably pretty common, and that my situation is not all that unique; so, I share, and I hope that my words continue to reach others who find hope and solace with knowing that they are not alone.
People on the outside, namely people in families like mine, think that the person who finally decides to share is a monster. Like me; they believe that I have no feelings, outside of those that are designed to hurt, or upset people. I'm some kind of maniac that just runs around willy-nilly, at random, hurting people, for some sort of non-purpose, or worse, for attention, that I'm somehow lacking. Or, that people like me do it for something akin to sport, or personal gain. I think it's probably pretty normal to villainize the one who breaks free; it protects the delusional group-think, and protects the group ideology by having a shared enemy.
"Secrets get in the way because appearance is more important than reality, which means anyone in trouble is left to cope alone." (Cowann-Jensen, 2012).
But, I'm a person, an individual; I'm not a super-villain. While I know that I can't make that clear to my family, because they operate under a group delusion that protects their own interests, I can remind myself; or maybe, I can make it clear to someone reading, who understands what it's like to be in this position. I can make someone who is struggling with similar familial alienation understand that their feelings aren't crazy.
It'd be nice if, just once, anyone, just anyone, in my family, would attempt understanding my feelings, instead of focusing on their own. It takes a great deal of maturity to do this, to see the world from a perspective, outside of your own. For example, I have thought extensively about why my family is upset. I assume that they are upset that I shook all of their skeletons out of the closet, right in front of the world. They are, likely, humiliated. But, rather than face up, they have chosen to hide and deflect.
In other words - Don't share the secret! It's your fault for exposing us, not our fault for the abuse!
"Oh the many ways in which children are made to feel like the abuse is their fault and that there is a price to be paid if they tell!" (unk, n.d.)
The Lash Back – I'm Not Innocent
The best-practice response for my family, or many families like this, has always been that a good defense is a good offense. It's basically: Rachel said something horrible, so let's get her. Let's tell her she's a piece of shit. Remind her of that one time she did something wrong. I deny nothing. I will always be an open book.
I was raised in a toxic environment, and I did what I had to do, to survive. I was raised in an environment where love was a commodity. My sister and are were sworn enemies from birth, pitted against one another for whatever bits of love that were doled out like crumbs of stale bread to pecking pigeons. We didn't band together to protect one another from the onslaught of shit; we threw one another to the wolves. It's not unusual for kids in abusive homes, instead of being protective, to be horrible to one another. It's a pretty typical pattern, actually.
"In a dysfunctional family, the parents are inadequate or abusive. As a result, there is not enough love available for the children. Sometimes there's no love at all. This sets up an unconscious competition between the children for whatever love might be available. During childhood, one child might ingratiate themselves to one or both parents in an attempt to get some attention from them. They are simply doing their best to survive in an environment deficient of the emotional necessities of life." (Sirota, n.d)
I wish it were different; but what's done cannot be undone. If you were brought up like this, and you've done shitty things too; it's not a reason to think that you are like them, and you are unforgivable. You were part of a situation you couldn't control. Listen to two monstrous things I did; they don't make me a bad person. They made me a creature of my environment. Knowing, within moments of doing them that they were wrong, makes me a decent person; knowing that I regret them, every day, makes me aware that I can stop the pattern, that it was that place, not me. Still, I take responsibility for my actions.
Once, I pretended that my sister's treasured stuffed bunny, Kracker Jacks, had committed suicide to get away from how hateful of a person that I believed she was, pinning a note to its fuzzy chest, and hanging it from her ceiling fan from a homemade noose. I kept telling her, that no matter how much she hugged him, he'd always be dead, "inside."
Seriously, what a fucked up thing to do. Of course, I wasn't punished. What a piece of shit thing to do someone. But that's how we were; I'm certainly not going to say that I behaved like a psychopath, at random though. There was definitely some serious provocation, which I'm sure the joint delusion of my family believes didn't exist. The difference between me, and them, is that I can see that what I did was wrong; they can't see anything they did, or continue to do is wrong. At all.
The one and only time that I "hit" her, I jumped over the kitchen table to lunge at her, after she'd rolled her eyes at me, one too many times. I didn't even make contact, because she scrambled away so quickly. She cried wolf about injuring her foot, and demanded to be taken to the emergency room, where the doctor told her that it wasn't even a sprain. She spent seven years claiming her injury was so severe that she couldn't even wear proper shoes. It was a beautiful event for her, because anytime I came to town, it was a way to remind everyone of the time I'd hit her; she limped, wore funky shoes, the whole nine yards. I don't blame her for the attention-seeking behavior, not one bit. I'd have done it too, if it got me one iota of positive attention and love, especially if it shamed my sister too. Take it where you can get it, sista.
My favorite thing about that day was that when I hit her, I stepped outside, to cool down, knowing, even then, that I shouldn't have done it. I was greeted by her, now-husband, who instead of comforting her, knew instinctively that he should get the fuck away from the confrontation. I immediately apologized to him; but he said:
"Did that feel good?
"Good. Because she deserved it. Never tell her I said that."
(Sorry about that broken promise, dude)
I'm sure he'll deny it, till his dying day, and I expect him to now. If he knows what's good for him, he still will. My mom told me she had it coming. And, my dad asked me how it felt as well; also, adding that he hoped it'd knocked the bitch out of her."
We were taught by masters of violence and emotional abuse; and, I'm not so sure that I didn't hit someone who wasn't provoking me. However, I shouldn't have hit her. I shouldn't have done a thousand little things that I did. But, there are also thousand little things she shouldn't have done, like locking me in tiny to boxes, knowing I was claustrophobic. N-O-N-E of it was okay. I regret anything that ever hurt anyone, even things I don't remember; but, I'm not sure that anyone else does.
What's happening now is that the things that I did when I was a child, in a dysfunctional environment, are being thrown at me, as justification for behavior that's happening today. Things that I have apologized for, things that I say, "yeah, that was a shitty thing to do."
I apologize for not knowing how to act and for behaving like the caged animal that I was. I'm not that caged animal anymore. I'm gentle, sweet and tame, because my bars are gone. But, I'm also fucking strong. I got through, and I'm on the other side. I don't tolerate abuse anymore.
You might say, "but that's what you are doing; you're asking them to own up to behavior done in the past." But, the difference is, I was a child, responding to an abusive environment. They were adults. They bear a very different responsibility than me. Furthermore, they continue to refuse to own up to it, to pretend it didn't happen, and to continue the pattern in a supremely unhealthy way.
The Other Side
So, I can't be seen the way I was seen as a child, anymore. It's damaging and dangerous. I'm not wrong. It's wrong. None of us can. It's wrong to be abused, physically, emotionally, and sexually; and then to tell the person that they are wrong for saying that it hurt. It was wrong then, and it's wrong now. It's wrong to ostracize someone for calling out how terrible it was, and is. It's wrong to shout them down, and pretend that their past wasn't real. It's wrong to attempt to shame someone into quieting them down. It's wrong to pretend they are crazy, in order to protect your collective delusion, and ego. I don't speak for me alone; I speak for all survivors of abuse and familial alienation.
Most children of childhood abuse grow into adults who continue to be abused. I was abused as an adult, too. I was hit; I was emotionally abused. Once, when I was about 21, my mother grabbed me by the head, and screamed so loudly into my face that it was covered in her spit, "I hope you die."
So, shout your abuse story from the rooftops; don't pretend that it didn't happen. Like most adults, abuse changes when you leave, or when you get bigger. My mom became a needy, soft version of herself, in order to manipulate me, and keep me on a short leash. Call me. Call me. Call me.
"…there are many, many child abuse survivors who are still dealing with daily ongoing abuse. Their suffering is very real and begs to be acknowledged." (Beisner, 2015)
I can't fight anymore. I can't go back again, to have it hanging over my head like an anvil, that there's a possibility of fighting, ever again. Be with people who accept you, for you, for the rest of your life. Those cheese-ball memes about family not always being blood, they're true. Find your family; find people who love you and respect you. Find people who you trust. They don't have to be related to you; because sometimes, those people are the worst for you.
Once, when I was in middle school, I saw an after-school special about a girl who was being abused; so, she went to her school counselor. Suddenly, like magic, she was in a new place, with new parents. It took me a week to get brave enough to make an appointment with my counselor, and when the slip came to my classroom, and they called me down to the office, I had my heart in my throat. Still, I was sure that this would be it, someone finally would help.
I cried through the entire appointment. I could tell that, because I wasn't struggling academically, she wasn't sure she believed me. When I got home that night, my mother told me a counselor called, beat the shit out of me, and told me never to embarrass her again. The counselor called me down to the office about a week later to ask if things had improved; it was the last time I asked for help, or exposed our secrets.
But, no more. No one should keep the secret. Not anymore. I'm being ostracized and shamed for speaking out. I'm being dragged over the coals and left with no family. But, I'm not alone:
"According to a new study, half of all childhood abuse sufferers wait as much as five years before disclosing the abuse. In fact, 16% of women never tell, while a full 34% of men keep secret forever." (North, 2010)
This isn't a thing that people can just put on a clean shirt and get over. Childhood abuse has shown to affect everything from adult height, to intelligence. It can have lasting effects like depression and even PTSD. I recently freaked the fuck out when my son, just joking around, pretended to pat my bottom with a wooden spoon, for example.
It took me until now to finally ask for help again, to realize that it's safe, that it's okay. I'm not hiding anymore. I have my family. I have a therapist, and I have doctors. I refuse to deny the truth anymore, not to anyone. I refuse to pretend that I didn't have wooden spoons and hairbrushes broken on my behind. I refuse to deny that I wasn't locked in my room for days at a time. I refuse to deny that I wasn't lied to, in order to manipulate my behavior. I refuse to deny burns and bloody noses. I refuse to deny any of it.
I hate the pain that this causes. I hate that my family is hurt; but I hate that they hurt me more. I'm thirty-eight years old, and I finally feel strong enough to face it, and take the repercussions, even if it means full detachment. I hope against hope, that someone out there hears this and feels strong enough to walk away from a similar situation that causes them pain. There's no way to express what pain there is in knowing that my parents don't choose me. But, then again, they never have.
P.S. I can't thank the people that have reached out to me, with similar stories, enough. I'm so sorry that you've had this pain, but I'm so grateful that you've found comfort in knowing that you are not alone. It's the only good thing that can come of sharing, and it's why I do it.
The last thing I will say is that this is NOT for my family, who is likely hanging on my every word, waiting for their next chance to become indignantly right. This is for me. This is for you, the hopeful. This is is for the person who remembers being shit on, and is hoping they can get the courage to ignore that next call from their mother, father, or whoever. Do it. You can.


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Noodles, noodles, everywhere! We're taking noodles to a new level in this class. From fresh tomato pasta, to zucchini noodles, to spaghetti squash with herbs and parmesan cheese – noodles can be exciting and creative. Come see for yourself! Cost is $18.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: May 7Kid's Cooking Class: Flower Power in the Kitchen
Later Event: May 8Adult Cooking Class: I Say Tomato You Say Tomato!


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FREE All About Steps - A Booklet
FREE All About Steps - A Booklet
- Every important question about Steps answered in detail!
A fantastic 40 page document that carefully, fully answers pretty much every question you will have about STEPS! What is STEPS? How does it work? Who does it work best for? How can you start homeschooling, or continue successful homeschooling, using STEPS? What should you start with? How do you decide which STEP your student is on? IT'S ALL HERE, and a lot more, including advice on homeschooling, scheduling studies, and even what to do if your student hits a rough patch!
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My WU Summertime Shopping Sweepstakes
Ends: Aug 27, 2017 at 10:59pm | MOBILE FRIENDLY
1 Grand Prize: $1,000 Amazon gift card
Weekly Prizes: (1) Amazon Echo ($179.99), (1) Amazon Tap ($129.99), (1) Amazon Fire TV ($89.99), (1) Amazon Echo Dot ($49.99), (10) $100 Amazon.com Gift Cards
Note: Must be a WU member. To enter without purchase send an email to email@example.com with the subject line: Western Union Amazon Entry Request. In the body of your email include the following Information: your complete name, address, daytime phone number, age and your My WU® membership number.
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Nicole Bowers
May 20, 2018 2:24 am
May 20, 2018 2:24 am
This contest is OVER!!


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Hi there. See you don't run JavaScript. That's cool. This site uses it for layout and the navigation menu (standard jQuery and Bootstrap) and to obfuscate email addresses.
The Ladykillers (1955) IMDb
References here: "The Wrong Trousers" (1993).
fiction moving picture
The Ladykillers (2004) IMDb
Viewed 2019-09-17. Ugly in unsafe old browsers.


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When every brand is fighting for attention online, it can feel impossible to make your brand stand out. Tim Spiers, Creative Director at Glassmint Studio is often asked how imagery can help brands deal with this issue. He's created imagery for many fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands and he knows that capturing the authenticity of your brand through imagery is the key to significant engagement.
With AW18 fast approaching here are three of his time-tested tactics:
- Establish a style guide for product imagery to keep the look consistent across all channels.
- Include people in your imagery to give a relatable human touch to your content.
- Make authenticity the guiding principle behind your image content strategy.
Imagery is the first and last thing people remember, say's Tim and it needs to do more than sell a product. It needs to encapsulate the personality of your brand and help people experience your products (yes, even in a digital context!). Loyal customers are people that have bought into your brand. You earn trust through visual consistency; people like to know that what they see is what they get. The 2018 Consumer Research Report from Salsify found that "Consumers care less about price when a product has demonstrated trustworthiness." Style guides help create the brief that ensures images are consistent and true to a brand.
Including people imagery on your site particularly on your landing page is known to improve conversion rates. Human photos have a positive impact on trustworthiness and create stronger emotional connections. Most people want to feel a real human connection so be sure to create imagery that shows people who represent your target market. Images need to help people relate to your Brand and visitors can tell when you are using stock photography, so avoid it where you can.
Your followers aren't looking for perfection, they want the real story behind your brand. Transparency, authenticity and a bit of rawness are the order of the day. These are all qualities that heighten engagement and lead to brand popularity. People want to know the backstory and see behind the scenes but this does not mean at the expense of good quality imagery. Imperfection does not translate to poor quality rather, it's about capturing the raw beauty of a brand through stunning relatable imagery.
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Gandhi, who is on his second visit to Amethi after taking over the reins as the party head, will spend the first two days in Amethi and the last day in Raebareli, Congress sources said.
Congress President Rahul Gandhi will embark on a three-day visit to his constituency of Amethi from today. Gandhi, who is on his second visit to Amethi after taking over the reins as the party head, will spend the first two days in Amethi and the last day in Raebareli, Congress sources said. During his visit from April 16 to April 18, Rahul will meet farmers in his constituency, hold kisan chaupal, and interact with locals. It is reported that Rahul would hold a kisan chaupal at Jainabganj Mandi of Bajar Shukl area in Amethi. He will also inaugurate a passport seva kendra, a road project and a private school. Thauri-Kotava Road built under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna will be launched by him. Gandhi will also lay the foundations of some development projects.
This visit of Rahul Gandhi comes at the backdrop of Union Minister Smriti Irani's statement on April 14 that the Gandhi family ignored Amethi for five decades and the development have been done in the four years of Modi government. She targeted Congress for the lack of development in Amethi. On Rahul Gandhi's Amethi visit today, Irani said she had fulfilled her promise to Amethi's people that they'd see more of the Gandhi scion due to her. Smriti had said in 2014 that Rahul Gandhi will be seen more because of her and she said she was happy to have proven the same. Irani had unsuccessfully fought the last Lok Sabha poll against Rahul Gandhi but claimed to have maintained her links with the constituency ever since.
Meanwhile, Gandhi's first trip to Amethi as Congress President was in January this year where he was given a grand welcome by the party workers along his way to the constituency. UP Congress president Raj Babbar and other leaders welcomed him at Lucknow's Amausi Airport. During that visit, he claimed that time for change had come and Congress party was ready to shoulder the responsibility of India again.
He had also promised that he will revive the food park project soon after returning to power at the Centre. Rahul took the VIP road from Lucknow to reach Rae Bareli. While Amethi is represented by Gandhi in Parliament, his mother and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi is the MP from Raebareli.
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After a summer break, we are thrilled to return to our monthly Soup Sisters events! Soup Sisters Penticton launched in 2015 in support of the South Okanagan Women in Need Society.
We help you make delicious, nutritious soups for SOWINS in our kitchen with 16 to 20 participants, preparing up to 200 servings of soup under the guidance of our staff. There is a $55 participation fee per person to cover the expenses; this ensures that the finest ingredients possible are used every time for the soups provided to women, children and youth. Events are social evenings with lively conversation, chopping, laughter and warm kitchen camaraderie that culminate in a simple, sit-down supper of soup, salad, bread and wine for all participants.
A great activity for groups, team-building, or just to be a part of this great community.
For more information or to book a soup making event contact email@example.com, or click here for more info. The next event is September 18.


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October 15, 2014
| By Scott Minerd
The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes this week broke below 2 percent intraday for the first time since June 2013, fulfilling a view I expressed in commentaries published in September 2013 and again in August. With this yield achieved, I don't see an imminent rise in rates and view market talk about possible continuing quantitative easing by the Federal Reserve as overblown.
The recent decline in yields has less to do with U.S. economic fundamentals, which remain sound, and more to do with technical forces driving rates lower as a result of capital flows out of Europe. With inflation expectations falling, U.S. 10-year Treasury yields still look attractive even at close to 2 percent, relative to comparable German bunds at around 80 basis points and Japanese sovereign debt at around 50 basis points. In reality, U.S. long-term yields should continue to be well supported, with limited room to rise higher and the possibility that they could move lower.
In U.S. equities, the market is going through its usual seasonal gyrations and now appears to be oversold. The seasonal patterns of higher volatility in September and October that we anticipated have largely been fulfilled and seasonal factors should shift dramatically over the next two months. The buy signal for stocks normally coincides with the first game of baseball's World Series (Oct. 21 this year), and between then and year end we will likely get a U.S. equities market rally.
The S&P 500 Index today reminds me of 2003, when stocks fell 4.2 percent in September before strong data pushed stocks 15 percent higher by June of 2004. The S&P then lost about 7 percent between June and August of 2004, when the Fed hiked interest rates, before gaining more than 15 percent in the next year.
In the coming months, a number of indicators will offer signals about how long the rally in U.S. stocks and bonds that began in 2009 can continue. One such indicator will be the so-called Santa Claus rally. As the old adage goes, "If Santa Claus should fail to call, bears may come to Broad and Wall." While it is too early to say, the coming rally in U.S. equities may be the one to sell into.
October's sharp sell-off in U.S. stocks has raised concerns that the bull market, in place since 2009, may soon come to an end, with the S&P 500 Index down over 7 percent since September's peak. However, seasonal factors suggest a strong fourth-quarter rebound. Over the last 68 years, the S&P 500 has averaged monthly gains of 0.9 percent in October, followed by even stronger increases of 1.2 percent and 1.8 percent in November and December, respectively. The coming months will be key in determining how much further the bull market can run.
Source: Haver, Guggenheim Investments. Data as of 10/16/2014. Note: Data since 1946.
History shows that once our recession forecast model reaches current levels, aggressive policy can delay recession, but not avoid it.
Credit spreads could get tighter in this liquidity-driven rally, but history has shown that the potential for widening from here is much greater.
Rational immigration policy, not rate cuts, is the way to avoid recession.
Portfolio Manager Adam Bloch and Matt Bush, a Director in the Macroeconomic and Investment Research Group, share insights from the third quarter 2019 Fixed-Income Outlook.
Anne Walsh, Chief Investment Officer for Fixed Income, shares insights on the fixed-income market and explains the Guggenheim approach to solving the Core Conundrum.
Guggenheim Investments represents the investment management businesses of Guggenheim Partners, LLC ("Guggenheim"). Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC is an affiliate of Guggenheim.
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*Assets under management is as of 6.30.2019 and includes leverage of $11.2bn. Guggenheim Investments represents the following affiliated investment management businesses of Guggenheim Partners, LLC: Guggenheim Partners Investment Management, LLC, Security Investors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Investment Advisors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC, GS GAMMA Advisors, LLC, Guggenheim Partners Europe Limited and Guggenheim Partners India Management. Securities offered through Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC, an affiliate of Guggenheim, SI, GFIA and GPIM.
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Welcome to the Alaska Real Estate Commission
This List Serv was established as a tool for the Commission to provide real estate licensees with information pertinent to the practice of real estate in Alaska.
Public Notice
Proposed Regulation Changes – The Real Estate Commission proposes to change occupational license fees charged to real estate salespersons, associate brokers and brokers.
12 AAC 02.360, Real Estate Commission, is proposed to change the application, license, renewal, reinstatement, inactivation and reactivation license fees for real estate salespersons, associate brokers, and brokers.
Comments must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 6, 2017.
Real Estate Commission Meeting
The next scheduled Real Estate Commission meeting is December 6, 2017. This meeting will be held in Anchorage at the Atwood Building, meeting room to be determined. All meetings are open to the public.
Contact Us
Please visit the AREC web site at https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/RealEstateCommission.aspx for more information.
Alaska Real Estate Commission
550 W 7th Ave Ste 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 907.269.8162
Fax: 907.269.8196
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.


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If Brexit goes ahead it will mean Royal Oldham Hospital will not be able to properly care for our loved ones, despite the best efforts of dedicated NHS staff. Politicians have failed to deliver on the Brexit promises they made and Theresa May's Brexit deal neither satisfies those who voted to Remain or those who voted to Leave. We say the people should decide the way forward in a public vote. We urge our MP, Jim McMahon to back this.
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PhD Forum
16th ACS/IEEE International Conference on Computer Systems and Applications AICCSA 2019
November 03 to November 07, 2019
Ph.D. Forum - Call for Applications
AICCSA is a forum for researchers and practitioners to present and discuss recent advances in the field of computer systems and their applications. The AICCSA conference is an excellent venue and a great opportunity for graduate students to share the results of their work with the community and interact informally with faculty and researchers during the conference. In this spirit, AICCSA 2018 will host a doctoral forum as a concurrent track during the conference. The forum will provide a venue for PhD students to present their research, receive individual feedback regarding their research project and career mentoring from a team of faculty and industry mentors. The co-chairs of the doctoral forum will provide a forum for PhD students interested in academia to learn about their experience about applying and interviewing for faculty positions. A panel will be organized for the graduate students on how to prepare themselves for future career covering the topics of presentation skills, job interviews, and constructing research statements.
The Ph.D. Forum committee will select Ph.D. students for participation. Among those selected, 8-10 students will be chosen by the committee to receive travel support to cover the registration, air travel and lodging costs. This support is made possible by a grant from the National Science Foundation.
The forum activities will include Research Talk, Poster Presentation, and Career Mentoring. During the forum, each student will have an opportunity to give a presentation on their research as well as their future work. Attendees to the doctoral forum will also be given the opportunity to present a poster at the main conference poster session. At the poster session and reception, faculty/researcher mentors will visit the Ph.D. student posters and engage in discussion and networking. We will have a special session devoted to career mentoring for the students in attendance. The AICCSA organization committee understands the diversity in the background of the PhD students that attend the conference, while some will go into industry there will be those who go into academia. Therefore, the career mentoring session will allow students to listen and interact with experts in both areas. Prior to attending the conference, the PhD students will be asked to send 1-3 questions related to career development or relevant research topics. A question and answer forum will be held to address and discuss these questions as well as any other questions a PhD student attending the conference may have. Furthermore, we will invite faculty and industry members to the Doctoral Forum's poster session to allow a face-to-face discussion with leading experts in the field of computing systems research.
While travel funds will be used to support graduate students from any US university, we will particularly pay attention to the selection of participants to include opportunities for the participation of under-represented groups such as women, minorities, and persons with disabilities. We will also give high priority to students who will be participating in the AICCSA conference for the first time. For further information, please see the AICCSA 2018 webpage.


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😫I am so sick of seeing people sell weight loss as if it was the key to happiness./
😫I am so sick of seeing people sell weight loss as if it was the key to happiness.
😫I am so sick of seeing before and after weight loss pictures.
😫I am so sick of people saying that they lost weight and now their lives are perfect.
😫I am so sick of people glorifying weight loss as if it was some an heroic event.
What about our self-worth being connected to the
💙 way we treat ourselves and the kindness we share with others?
💙 service and work that we share with the world?
💙 our presence with our children and loved ones?
I do understand how challenging it is when you suffer from negative body image and disordered eating. These images of glorified weight-loss seem so promising and so true.
I do feel for you. I feel the struggles that you have and the challenges that you have with your body.
I used to feel the same way.
Now, I am convinced that these promises of happiness with weight loss are just a BIG FAT LIE.
Once the 'extra' weight is gone, you won't magically live a life of perfection. You still have to deal with daily struggles and grievances. Most importantly, the weight does not take away the deep pangs of unworthiness or shame.
What can you do? You actually have a choice.
You can stop looking at these images.
You can unsubscribe from the weight-loss guru's newsletter list.
You can throw away the fitness magazine.
You can stop comparing yourself to others.
🦋I can help you.
I help women to feel beautiful every day. My mission is to inspire and empower women through loving their body and healing deeply.
If this resonates, PM me.


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Winter Concert Schedule/
Join us Thursday night December 13th at the Hamilton-Wenham Regional High School in the Visual Arts Wing at 6:00pm for the Annual Winter Art Showcase including work from student artists in grades 9-12, followed by the Annual Winter Concert in the Ferrini Dramatics Center at 7:00pm featuring Concert Choir and Harmony, Concert Band and Jazz Band led by Director of Choirs, Katie Simko and Director of Bands, Erik Fecke.
The excitement continues next week with the Elementary Winter Concert recently on Monday, December 17th at 6:30pm in the Perkins Auditorium at Buker Elementary School and led by Kendall Clarke, Director of Choir and Mike Ferreira, Director of Band.
And finally, you won't want to miss the Middle School Winter Concert, Tuesday, December 18th at 7:00pm in the Ferrini Dramatics Center featuring a variety of performances from the Band and Chorus also led by Director of Choirs, Katie Simko and Director of Bands, Erik Fecke.
Accompanying musicians at the high school and middle school winter concerts are being supported by the Sonja Pryor Grant Fund through HW FOTA.


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There's nothing better than showcasing an adorable couple in love with a laid back attitude getting married in a minimalist yet exotic style. Today, La Bride offers its loyal readers the beautiful photographs of Jemma and James's wedding celebrations taken by Neža Reisner Photography. Get ready to be swept off of your feets!!!
The couple chose Bled, a dreamy and romantic destination in Slovenia, Europe. Words fall short to describe the enchanting beauty of this small yet oh-so-fascinating place. The emerald green lake, a medieval castle clinging to a rocky cliff and gigantic mountains offered a picture perfect backdrop for the wedding ceremony. Who needs decorations when you have such a charming setting to make the celebrations special, right?
We loved the small details of the wedding, which added a unique charm to the occasion! Whether it was the bride's bouquet, groom's ring or their wedding vows, everything had a beautiful story, which will literally bring tears to your eyes.
The bride, Jemma made this lovely bouquet herself, using 500 origami cranes. James had spent a lot of time in Japan and Jemma wanted to incorporate a bit of Japanese essence in the wedding. Origami cranes are a part of an old Japanese legend, which says that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes is granted a wish by the Gods. Therefore, Jemma decided to make 1000 origami cranes to honor James's connection with Japan and also to show his surrogate family her dedication towards her husband. The cranes were in yellow color because daffodil was Jemma's mother's favorite flowers.
The Vow books were made in Canada by Noteworthydesignsco and enclosed the heartfelt promises James and Jemma made to each other. Since James is Buddhist he chose to go for a sandalwood ring instead of any precious metal.
Only the closest family members and friends of the bride and groom witnessed the intimate affair. The couple made sure that everyone they loved was present to celebrate their union, whether it was in person or just in pictures. They decided to honor the family members (and pets) they had lost by having their photos on the ceremony table.
"According to the legend, a young widow Poliksena once lived at the Bled Castle, who had a bell casted for the chapel on the island in memory of her husband. During the transport of the bell, a terrible storm struck the boat and sank it together with the crew and the bell, which to this day is said to ring from the depths of the lake. After the widow died, the Pope consecrated a new bell and sent it to the Bled Island. It is said that whoever rings this bell and thereby gives honour to Virgin Mary gets his wish come true."
The wedding pictures and the couple's lovely story has left us impassioned and inspired. Relish in these beautiful pictures until we bring you some more beautiful love stories.
Photography: Neža Reisner Photography | Second photographer: Mihaela Majerhold | Ring: A&A Jewellery | Groom`s wooden sandal: coolNaturalJewelry | Bridal Dress: Martina Liana | Vow books: Noteworthydesignsco


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Worth Reading - 9/15
1. Scott Sauls writes about the danger of 'Outrage Porn,' which is the condition of being excited by being (perpetually) upset about something.
2. An interesting post by an author reflecting on the question whether Michael Foucalt, a founding-father of sorts for the deconstructionist left, could have become a fan a capitalism in his later decades. This goes along with the various conspiracy theories about why his estate will not allow his last book to be published, with speculation that he might have rejected some of the far-left stances of his earlier writings.
3. Plagiarism is a high crime of the writing world. Sometimes it can happen by accident if you don't cite your sources even in informal writing.
4. Carl Ellis talks about the importance of doing theology for activist Christians. He's a voice that we can benefit from listening to.
5. The intolerance of the faithful in politics and the public square is an issue in the US and the UK as this post at the Acton Institute outlines:


text: We encouraged kids (ages 6-12) to illustrate what Never Stop Exploring™ means to them and were wowed by the response. After receiving more than one thousand submissions from young artists across the country, we let the public vote for their favorite 10 finalists. The winning artwork inspired our latest kids' tees and hoodies—congratulations to our newest (and youngest) designers!


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In Good Company with Dr. Jane
Written By: Kari-Lyn Danyluk, JGI Canada Volunteer
Category: Dr. Jane
The Toronto Life write-up of Dr. Jane's 83rd birthday party in Rosedale that took place on April 19th mentions the food that was prepared on-site by some of Toronto's top chefs (delicious), the signature apple pie whiskey cocktail (surprisingly potent) and of course, the high-profile attendees; but after talking with many guests, it became very clear that the event was really about the personal connection so many people have with Dr. Jane.
G Adventures' CEO and founder Bruce Poon Tip with Dr. Goodall
For example, Verena Besso arrived with one of her most cherished possessions in hand, a laminated, hand-written original letter from 1992 that begins with:
and ends with:
Feeling unmoored after completing her graduate degree in 1992, Besso decided to travel to Tanzania with a friend. When a side-trip to see gorillas in the Congo was cancelled due to conflict in the region, the pair decided to visit the chimpanzees instead. They travelled for four days by train, 24 hours by bus, and then took a boat to finally arrive in Gombe – the location where Jane Goodall pioneered her research. Besso says the lush forest shoreline reminded her of the Muskokas. While on a five-hour walking tour with rangers the next day, they saw chimpanzee nests, watched a group hunt and kill a monkey, and were put in their place by a large male, who body-checked their male guide off the path.
"It was a very humbling experience to be in such close contact with the chimpanzees. It was clear that we were the intruders in their home, and that they ruled this habitat."
At the end of the tour, Besso left a note for Dr. Jane in a visitor comment box. She wasn't sure whether she'd get a reply at all, so was delighted when a few months later, a handwritten, two-page letter arrived. In it, Dr. Jane tells Besso about the work she's been doing, and that she'd put her back out. Years later, Besso met Dr. Jane in person and showed her some of the photos from her trip. Dr. Jane knew each chimpanzee in the photos by name, and chatted with Besso about chimpanzee pregnancies and children as though they were members of her own family.
Dr. Goodall sharing a moment with Verena Besso.
I asked the generous party hosts, Tom and Nicole Antony, how they were connected to JGI Canada and Dr. Jane. Nicole replied that they hadn't been previously, but that after meeting Dr. Jane and hearing her speak, they definitely will be now.
Dr. Goodall gifts Tom and Nicole a painting done by Lemba, a chimpanzee who lives at Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Centre.
Guests came from as far away as Moncton for a chance to meet Dr. Jane in person. Shelley Steep travelled from Kingston with her son Liam. Liam uses a wheelchair and has limited speech. Nevertheless, he and his mother are fearless travellers. Liam met Dr. Jane after hearing her speak in Ottawa, making her laugh with his imitation of chimp pant-hoots. Shelley's was the winning bid on a G-Adventures trip from the Jane Goodall Collection, so she and Liam will be heading to Rwanda and Uganda in the early summer. Bon voyage Shelley and Liam! We can't wait to see the pictures from your trip!
Dr. Goodall and Liam
The party raised $109K which will help support the Institute's work in the Democratic Republic of Congo.


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Sourced from the Post Bulletin
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas. These roofs offer several benefits for the urban ecosystem. A green roof is simply beautiful compared to the alternative black tar roof.
Urban development has altered how water travels through the landscape. As impervious surfaces increase, water is forced to evaporate or run off. In the heart of a city where there is 75 percent to 100 percent impervious surface most of the rainfall becomes runoff and infiltration is less than one-third of what it was prior to development. A green roof can reduce, delay and cool stormwater runoff.
A green roof can reduce the urban heat island effect. As plants transpire, they create a cooling effect, lowering the temperature on the roof. The building is cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning and therefore reducing building energy costs.
A green roof can increase the longevity of the roof by protecting it from ultraviolet rays.
A green roof can be a sound barrier for buildings located near an airport, a highway or industry.
A roof can be used to create a garden where ground space is not available. This rooftop space can be used to produce food in an urban food desert and provide needed green space in a concrete jungle for humans, birds and pollinators.
The type of plants used depends on the type of green roof. There are two types, extensive and intensive. An extensive green roof has a soil depth of 1 to 5 inches and utilizes drought-tolerant plants such as sedums and short grasses.
An extensive green roof is typically used on a rooftop that is not accessible by humans. The roof needs to be constructed to withstand the additional 15 to 50 pounds per square foot of weight from the soil.


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Shrines & Altars to Nature
In Britain, traditional shrines to Nature can be found at trees and springs. Practices include tying strips of cloth or ribbon onto branches (when tying things to trees, make sure you will not constrict their growth) and hammering 2p coins into an old stump (always in a dead tree, never a living one).
The former is practiced with the intent of making a prayer or an offering, in remembrance of someone or to honour the tree or Nature Beings. The latter is carried out to remove a dis-ease or a problem, by placing the energy in the coin with one's intent and then asking the divine to take the unwanted energy when hammering it in the tree as a cleansing ritual.
These folk rituals can be found around Britain, Janet's Fosse, near Gordale Scar, Yorkshire is a place where tree stumps with coins can be found. Strips of ribbon or fabric on trees is more common, several places have this, some secretive, some public, such as at Avebury.
Sometimes we may wish to create something more personal as a means of honouring the Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings around us. The simplest shrine can be made with a plant in a pot or an area can be set aside in the garden, house or in nature for a more elaborate arrangement.
What does a shrine need to contain? The most important factor is to go with the heart and intuition, create something that has true integrity and love, this is what gives a shrine power. What are you trying to say? "Thank you", "I love you", "I honour you", "Please support me", "I offer you healing", "I ask for healing", the list is endless but it is your guide in the making of it.
Let's start out with some basic structure, although, never forget that there are no rules and anything that comes from the heart with love and true intent is good. I would like to strongly urge consideration of the materials used, preferably natural materials that will not bring harm to Nature, no plastic or string that might get caught in a bird's beak or feet, nothing sharp-edged or likely to break or become harmful to animals.
Number is the structure of the universe and a shrine can be modelled on this in microcosm.
The Trinity and the One: We start with the One, this may be the centre of your altar or shrine. Traditional shrines would have a statue of a deity. It can be anything that represents the focus of your shrine or the Creator, a natural object or something more specific.
Then we have Two: duality, representing the physical world of humans, also the two worlds, the one we live in and the one the Nature Beings and Elementals live in, represented by two opposite objects such as a black stone and a white stone, for instance.
Then Three: representing manifestation, the triple nature of God/Goddess, creative forces, action.
The Four: Four directions, four seasons, four faces of the Goddess (Maiden, Bride, Mother and Wise Woman), four elements (Water, Earth, Air, Water), four dimensions, four gateways of the year (Imbolc, Beltaine, Lughnasadh and Samhain or the two solstices and two equinoxes), the list goes on. Mark four directions on your shrine or altar, perhaps with four stones laid in the shape of a cross. Or instead, set up a cross.
Finally, Seven: The musical notes, colours of the rainbow, representing the vibration of the energy of the universe and creativity.
Every number has a meaning, here are just some examples, use what your heart directs.
Shape: The circle is Nature, the turning of the year, planet Earth and the sun or moon, so it's a lovely shape to represent on the altar within the overall layout.
Triangles; pointing up, masculine and grounding energy, pointing down, the feminine and opening energy. Overlapped triangles symbolise "As above, so below" or bringing heaven onto Earth.
Spirals are commonly used in the carved decorations of our ancestors, and represent cyclic nature and ascension, our progression on our soul journey, moving through key initiations, awakenings and gateways at higher and higher levels.
The elements: Fire: Small tealights are commonly used on altars, even in Nature, with responsibility to not leave flame unattended, potentially causing a fire. Fire elementals are present in the light and warmth from the sun but also wherever decomposition takes place, such as leaves in the woodland, compost heap in the garden. They play a major part in the process of decay, transformation and regeneration.
Water elementals can be represented by placing liquids like milk or water on the altar or just sprinkling them over it. Also, shells. Water is the flow of life, it also holds the Akashic record, a source of wisdom, as are trees.
Air is represented by burning incense, once more, with care and responsibility when in Nature. Flags and tying rags or ribbons on trees for air, as we have seen. These allow the breeze to take our prayers to spirit, you can write a prayer or blessing on them. Found feathers have different meanings, depending on their colour or type of bird, they have many meanings and can be placed on the shrine or altar.
Earth is usually represented as the base on which the shrine or altar is made. However, food offerings are greatly accepted, also dried sage. Stones, pebbles, crystals, seeds, cones, leaves, the list is endless.
I tend to change my altars every three months on 1st March, 1st May, 1st August and 1st November and at any other time I get the urge or desire. I am always moving things about, adding and removing things as I sit at my altar every day to meditate and do my spiritual work. A complete refresh is a good idea from time to time.
Once up, the most important part is what you say. This comes from your heart. Dedicate your shrine or altar when it is first made or when you refresh it. Talk to the nature beings and elementals, get to know them. To do this, it is important you place only the energies of love and peace in your heart and mind. Make sure you do that every time you approach the shrine. If you do, you are opening yourself up to communication. Here is an invocation you can use:
"I call upon the protection, light and love of my personal guides and the Creator; I ask that you assist me in gaining a state of love within my mind and heart while adopting an existence of peace. I am love, I am peace. I now invoke the light, love and wisdom of Nature and the Creator's soul, to anchor into my being allowing the most appropriate vibration and level of energy to flow through me. I ask that as I open my truth and love to Nature, I am able to sense and experience the trust and love held within Nature. Allow me to receive the wisdom and energy that I need and is essential to my growth now on the Earth. Thank you and let it be."
Then allow yourself to sit peacefully in a state of acceptance and peace. Next, ask for your senses to be open to receive the light, energy, love and consciousness of Nature. Be open to any thoughts, feelings and insights. From these simple beginnings, go with your own flow, your soul knows what to do, you cannot go wrong.
The objects placed on the altar or shrine simply need to be meaningful to you, containing some of your energy (hold them in meditation, perhaps, placing your love, peace and gratitude in them). Breathe your intent into them. This is all about working with energy, nature beings see and feel the energy you put into things, if there is no energy, there is no offering, no gift. I have heard it said they prefer to receive energetic offerings rather than physical ones, it is us humans that feel the need to do everything in the physical. Nature Beings live and work in the Emotional frequency, whilst you speak to them, it is your emotions, not your words they pick up on. Go to a place in Nature and visualise yourself placing a gift there, whether a crystal, some sage, a flame, a light or a feather, if you place it with intent in your mind's eye, Nature Beings will receive it. Energetic objects truly are a part of you and you can leave anything from a diamond to a burning sun!
Thank you, to Shelli for inspiring this with the question she left in Comments:
"I stumbled upon your site while searching for shamanism based on my British ancestry. Thank you!! I am wondering if you tend shrines to the elements? If they figure into this cosmology? How you go about doing it if you do? How it benefits your life?"
Yes, I do tend shrines to Nature Beings, I am about to set one up in the woods next to where I live. I have one in my house. I like to make impromptu shrines and altars when I am out in Nature. It's also possible to care for a sacred site energetically from a distance, I act as the site-guardian for a sacred spring in Yorkshire, even though I live hundreds of miles away, I visit it energetically and work with the energy at the location.
One of the most important lessons I have learnt over the years is keep it simple, go with the heart, do things from a place of love and peace and that is all that matters. It benefits my life because it enables me to open up to the energies of Nature and Elemental Spirits and make a connection which enriches us both. They are living side by side with us, aware of our presence and our influence on Nature. They desire to get to know us and share our energies but not many humans are ready or able to do this, so they don't get much chance. Their connection to the Earth, to the Creator and the Inner Planes is unquestionable, but humanities connections are poor. A shrine can help us to make this a regular practice and gives us a focus, but in time we can take away the physical element and just walk in Nature with joy, love, peace, serenity and gratitude in our hearts and minds, inviting them to connect, they will know, they will respond, that is enough.
I heartily recommend all the books of Marco Pogacnik on this subject, especially 'Nature Spirits & Elemental Beings: Working with the Intelligence in Nature: Revised, Updated & Expanded Edition'


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Welcome back to the Tradesmen of New England blog! We are glad you are here and hope that you can find valuable information that can not only help you better care for your commercial HVAC system, but also instill confidence in our HVAC company and the services we provide. Lately, we've covered a variety of topics:
Residential vs. Commercial HVAC Systems
Many just assume that a commercial HVAC system is just a residential system on steroids that anyone who has serviced an HVAC system, whether it be residential or commercial, can give it proper care. This is simply not the case. A commercial HVAC system is more complex with a variety of factors that affect it. You must employ an experienced HVAC company to service your system. Read more here!
Preventative Maintenance that Will Save AC Costs
We cannot stress how important preventative maintenance is. Preventative maintenance will keep your system running efficiently longer and will mostly eliminate large-scale and expensive repairs. Efficiency and the a low probability for repairs means costs stay low. Read here about pre-summer preventive maintenance that will save your pocketbook from high AC costs!
Why Us?
In our latest blog, we talked about why you should choose Tradesmen of New England to service your Greater Hartford, Western Massachusetts, and Connecticut business or building. We know there are many commercial HVAC companies vying for your attention. Reasons to choose us are our dedication to customer service, our expert understanding of mechanical and control systems, and our comprehensive services that can keep your HVAC system running no matter what. To read more about us, go here or visit our website!
What Really is HVAC?
We all are familiar with heating and cooling systems. Most of us, if we have had the traditional American upbringing, have lived in homes with HVAC systems. We knew that our home stayed warm due to our heater and stayed cool in the summer because of our air conditioner. We also knew that if we adjusted the plastic box on the wall called a thermostat that we could make our home warmer or cooler. This probably all sounds a bit obvious and pointless to mention, but we do mention this because of how commonplace HVAC systems are, but yet how little the everyday person knows about them.
H Stands For Heating
The way a building is heated is determined not only by its age, but by its type. A building can be heated by a variety of types of commercial HVAC systems, including supply air systems, perimeter fin-tube radiators or by floor, ceiling, or wall radiation.
V is For Ventilation
Having a healthy ventilation system as part of your commercial HVAC system is crucial for several reasons. For building occupants to be able to not only be comfortable, but also healthy, there must be a healthy mixture of breathable gases in the air. Also, ventilation systems rid the air of odors, allergens, germs and other contaminants that are frequently found airborn in public spaces and contribute to company wide illness and allergy issues. There is such a thing as having a "polluted building" because your commercial HVAC system is inadequate for your building's size or needs, or is not receiving proper maintenance.
A Stands for Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is referred to in the HVAC industry as sensible and latent cooling of air. Sensible cooling refers to the control of the actual temperature of the air, and latent cooling involves the humidity of the cooled air. Having both sensible and latent cooling is important because cool, humid air is, for most, very uncomfortable. For climates that are dry, adding humidity to the air is important as well. There are several means for cooling the air: water loop heat pump system, air-cooled or water-cooled equipment, and geothermal exchange.
C is for Control
The controls of an HVAC system allow for keeping a building's occupants comfortable while also efficiently using energy resources. These controls also regulate how hard a system has to run to meet the demands of the building. Most commercial HVAC systems are made to handle more than they would ever probably need to.
So, HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Control. As you can see, even with this very basic explanation, an HVAC system does more than just heat and cool a building. It ultimately keeps the building climate comfortable and does so in the most efficient manner possible.
Want to learn more about how your commercial HVAC system works? Stay tuned for more posts about the specifics of commercial HVAC systems and other related topics.
Does Your System Need Maintenance?
Tradesmen of New England would love to help you have a commercial HVAC system that will not just work well enough, but one that also serves your building's needs in an effective manner. Our experienced technicians can service a wide variety of HVAC systems and supply you with appropriate retrofitted parts, as well as cutting-edge upgrades. Contact us to learn more about our services!


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Antique Guesthouse on a Country Compound
Named 2017 Best Antique Restoration by the Connecticut Home Builders Association HOBI committee, this top to bottom restoration is sited under ancient trees and a field of wildflowers in rural Connecticut. Clients of the Country Compound returned to the Davenport Team and asked Davenport Home to construct a vaulted living space with loft sleeping cove, full kitchen and bath for guests. A lower level with mudroom, custom built ins and laundry has been carefully added below grade to maintain the character of the original structure.


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Relaxed performance.
It's the story of two brothers who discover their family legacy as they are transported to a mysterious island full of pirates, castaways and singing insects! Will they get home? Will they discover the secret of the hidden treasure? Will their day be full of adventure and slow-mo battle scenes? You'll need to come in Spring of 2019 to find out!
More information and tickets
About relaxed performances at StoryBook Theatre