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Monday, June 6, 2011
Hello, friends.
How has your week been?
Around here, we're already in the mid-90's, and our Summer has officially begun.
Memorial Weekend was a relaxing treat with a little road trip out of town. This weekend is also proving to be just as relaxing - with a patio night with some good friends, some yard work, and a concert in the park.
We have been busy fixing up the backyard, and enjoying these early hot days before the temperatures (and mosquitoes) get too unbearable.
It took a couple years of my persistent pestering (and maybe begging, at times), and finally, finally, my dear husband has built me a beautiful hammock.
My break has included lots of time spent in this very spot. Elodie loves it, and falls fast asleep swinging with us in the hammock. I think we will be spending lots of days and nights out here, enjoying a little peace and calm.
Baby Elle has officially found her hands. Along with constantly staring at them and trying to eat them, she favors opening her palm and pushing it against my mouth, where it is met with a thousand kisses. This child is so precious, and I feel so lucky that she is part of our family. Watching her learn, grow, and become her own little person has been a beautiful process, and we're only 2 months into the rest of our lives, watching and learning from our sweet daughter.
A lot of you have been asking about similar things, lately, and I thought I would answer a few FAQ's around the blog.
El said...
Aura Joon,
If you don't mind me asking, I'm curious- are you planning to teach Elodie Farsi? If so, how?
Love your posts.
Salam, Elham Joon.
We will of course be teaching Elodie how to speak Farsi. Knowledge is such a beautiful gift, and I especially feel that way about language.
I speak to Elodie in Farsi, and English. Normally I will say a phrase to her in English, then repeat it in Farsi. I have a little diaper change song that I sing to her, and it goes:
Elodie, you are Mommy's little bumble bee.
Elodie, zamboor-eh cucheloo hastee.
(you are a little bee)
I've also asked my Mom to only speak to her in Farsi, and Grandma doesn't speak English at all, so I'm sure she'll pick up plenty from her.
Petals&Twigs said...
thanks for sharing all these stories. i have recently discovered your blog and enjoy every bit of it. what type of carrier are you using?
I'm a huge fan of baby-wearing. Huge. There are so many benefits to wearing your baby, and I knew my favorite baby-gear purchase would be carriers. I wanted her to be able to go everywhere with us, and to see things the way we see them.
The first carrier we bought was a Moby Wrap, and I wasn't a fan of it. It was about ten miles of fabric, and it was so inconvenient to wrap myself up in it when I was running errands. We bought an Ergo carrier next, and I love it. It's sturdy and secure, it has a sun shade, and pockets for wash cloths, your phone, pacis, and anything else you need. I love our Ergo for walks, hikes, and vacuuming :)
The carrier I've been wearing in the last few posts is a ring sling, and it's a Sakura Bloom. It's from their Essential Linen line.
It has been the freedom I have been looking for, while still being pretty. I cannot say enough good things about this sling, and wearing your baby in general. I love to see an interest in something that other cultures have been practicing for years.
I'd suggest looking into the differences between all the different kinds of carriers, and choosing what is best for you.
Here is a chart on some basic comparisons of different carriers.
Anonymous said...
my ex husband took my son from me when we split up. he won full custody when my son was a baby. i was seeing him every other weekend now every saturday. i thought seeing him every week would be good but he is almost 8 and it's like we aren't close anymore. i don't know what happened. but he will say things to me like he didn't want to come that day and stuff. it breaks my heart. i don't know if his dad is telling him things or what. but i only see him a few hours on saturdays.. sometimes i get to go to his games. he lives an hour and a half away. any tips for something like this? his dad has a lot of money had had a great lawyer when he won and i didnt have anything. my son used to cry when he was younger and had to leave but now he don't mind. and he always has smart things to say to me. it's like i am not good enough or have enough. what do i do??
Anonymous, I am flattered that you think I would have a solution for this, but honestly, I have never been in this type of situation and don't have an answer for you.
I hope that you can keep communication open with your son, and express to him how you feel. Even though he is young, children still understand and comprehend a lot of what goes on around them, and it can't hurt to let him know how you are feeling.
Anonymous said...
Curious as to what you and your husband have planned as far as moving out of state, now that Ms Elodie is here? I'm sure it will be a gut-wrenching decision either way. Thanks for sharing your beautiful life with the world. - Miss J
Miss J- We're just taking it one step at a time, and still searching for home. That might mean that we stay here until we're old and gray, or it might mean that we'll leave when Michael is done with school. Either way, our first priority is baby E. And right now, taking her away from her little village is not really an option. And I think every one knows that I couldn't possibly function without my family :)
Anonymous said...
What happened to your dream of starting your business so you could stay at home with your baby? Why are you making the choice to let someone else raise your kid?
Oh my. Okay, here goes.
I don't think I ever specifically said that I would become a stay-at-home-Mom when I started my business. I wanted to do it so I could spend more time with her, and not be away from home 5 days a week. It's not in my nature to be home, and I get really terrible cabin fever and crave the adult interaction I get from my job. I really respect women who make the choice to quit their jobs and run their home like a well-oiled machine, but that is not for me. When I decided to start my business, it was with the intention that I would always still work behind the chair at the salon, part-time. And that I am doing.
Now that I'm back at work, I am only working 24 hours a week. I have 3 days home with Elodie, and she is with my Mom & Grandma the days I am at work.
As far as letting "someone else raise my kid," I hardly consider leaving my kid with the women that raised me as anything but wonderful. I made the best decision for my family, and I'd suggest you maybe not criticize someone's parenting choices :) Mamas tend to get a little defensive when they think a complete stranger that knows nothing about them is over-stepping their boundaries.
I put my shop on hold because I had a baby. It takes a lot of work to open an online boutique, and the hours and hours I need to invest in it come second to spending time with my child, right now. Hopefully it will be up and running over the next few weeks.
Anonymous said...
i expect my second baby in 2 months. we all have 12 months long maternity here in Slovenia, Europe. How long is it in the USA? do you have "special" kindergarten for little babies? :-)
I think we get 8 weeks here, on average. But that didn't apply for me. I am self-employed, so I actually got zero days of paid leave. Not only that, but I still had to pay for my booth at the salon while I was gone. Ouch.
Our special kindergarten is just daycare, and there are lot of tiny, tiny babies there. My sister had to leave my nephew at 6 weeks. It's so sad, because I know that we are really behind a lot of other countries as far as maternity leave goes. Hopefully the future will be better for new Moms in the US.
Cheryl McCormick said...
Okay, so, I thought of asking you for some help, since I've been spending some long hot and hard days in my backyard! Yesterday, I pulled weeds around the concrete slabs in my backyard, it was probably the hardest thing ever!!! I pulled them all by hand too, no weed eater, and with that, came lots of scary little critters, from these weeds!! Question, how to keep the weeds away without killing grass? And how often or fast will they grow back, or how often should i make sure to trim them back? I know lots of info. But I needed to ask you, considering you are amazing at this! Thanks love!
My husband is in charge of those kinds of weeds! I just pull weeds from my garden, and they're never that bad. I am outside every single day, watering and working in the yard. So if you pull them while they're still manageable, they don't get out of hand.
One suggestion I have is to water first. I've watched him pull the big clumps of weeds from the yard, and if the soil is wet, they come up easier without ripping up the roots, which leave room for them to grow back.
Jack said...
Where are you getting these cute striped maxi dresses?!? Love it :)
Forever21! I got so many questions about these dresses. I mostly just wear them around the house. They were $14 and I live in dresses in the Summer, so they're my go-to. I've been gardening, sleeping, and laying around in them, and they are just about the closest thing to feeling naked because of how comfortable they are. They're perfect for nursing, and I thought they were pretty cute in the process. I just bought them right after E was born (pretty forgiving on those extra baby pounds) so they're probably still in stores. I looked on their website and they're just down to the mustard/cream and the black/white stripe. Here is a link if you're interested. I must warn you, they are pretty close to see-through. Which makes them great for comfort, as a beach/pool coverup, or at a cookout. But maybe not so much for work or school.
Anonymous said...
Can you write everyday?
That's sweet, thank you. I don't think I could do the every-day blogging thing. I feel like what I would have to say would lose it's importance. So many bloggers seem to force out a post every day just for the visits and sake of having content. It's not really my style.
When I write, it's usually a product of something I scribbled on the weekends. "It Takes a Village" was hand-written (with one hand) in my backyard on the swing with Elodie the night before I went back to work. I really prefer writing whenever I feel inspired to do so.
In the cold months, I tend to write for myself a lot more. My mind is busy and I am trapped inside, feeling a bit tinged with anxiety and ready to spread my wings. When it gets warmer, I tend to post more photos, and my minutes are scarce because I can't tie myself down to the computer when the weather is beautiful. So I tell my stories the best way I know how in the smallest amount of time - through my lens.
Anonymous said...
hello aura! i have tried looking up but i dont think you have answered it. sorry if you have but i wanted to know which camera tripod do you use?
A friend is actually borrowing my tripod right now, and I can't remember the brand! I'm sorry. It's from Best Buy, and a friend bought it for me (the one who is borrowing it). I can't imagine that there is much difference between them all, but I could be terribly wrong. I use mine for photographing things around the house, items for the shop, etc. Oh, and all the photos in Dressing the Bump :) I know it's not a top of the line tripod but it has been great and done everything I needed it to for those instances.
Anonymous said...
will you please share some recipes for that yummy looking persian food?? it looks so simple but so tasty. i am trying to cook more healthy things at home and i LOVE chickpeas but have never made them at home. please share!!
If you are interested in cooking real Persian food, I have only one book to recommend for you. You will never, ever need anything else.
Growing up, my family always cooked from their hearts. In Yazd, there were no recipes written down for the meals that had been passed down for generations. One day while I was in a Mediterranean grocery store, I saw a book called Food of Life. I'm normally not a cookbook purchaser, but when I flipped through the pages, I thought my heart would surely leap out of my chest. Reading the first few pages of the book actually made me emotional, to hear the author's account of what food meant to their family, and to see the beautiful photos that I had seen before, in our own home. In our culture, cooking and providing meals for your family is a huge part of who we are. And so much love and thought is put into each little detail.
Even the title gives me a lump in my throat, translated from the Farsi phrase "nush-e jan," a sweet wish that you will enjoy the meal, and something I heard my family say as a child.
Some of the recipes in this book are 4,000 years old. When I brought it home to show my family, they sat around the book for an hour, excitedly squealing and pointing out recipes for meals they had enjoyed as children, themselves. I imagine seeing something like these recipes written down was incredibly nostalgic.
So if you're interested in Persian food, please consider this book. It has so many sweet stories, poetry, and beautiful photos entwined into the pages, that it almost feels more like a peek into the culture than an actual cookbook.
Betsy said...
Is that diaper bag the Scout, by Petunia Pickle Bottom???
Good eye, Betsy :) When we started talking about a diaper bag, we knew we wanted something we could both carry, without one of us (Michael) looking a bit silly carrying a pink purse. I'm not overly girlie myself, and also wanted something neutral that we could use later as luggage. We looked a lot at Fossil leather bags, but didn't quite find anything we really liked. For our baby shower, my sister gave us this diaper bag. We. Love. It. It has separate inserts for the inside, so you can even use it as a laptop bag. And how cute is this? It makes the perfect bag for any photographer.
C'est Moi said...
Hey girl,
Quick question about your baby tent; it's the Peapod, right? What model and why did you choose it? I'm so confused because they offer so many models and I'm not sure what the difference is between them?
Aren't these tiny tents just precious? Ours was a baby shower gift from a friend, so we didn't have to make any decisions on the model. It's the Peapod Lite - P001.
erin d. said...
Dear Aura,
I'm due for my first baby this August and I'm starting to panic. As a new mom, what baby items do you feel you couldn't live without, and how do you know what to do?
Honestly, I think the only 5 things I religiously use are washcloths, a carrier, diapers, swaddle blankets, and my boobs. Pretty simple.
I put off our registry until a week before our baby shower, after much hounding from my sister. She even made me a 3 page list of all the things she thought I needed. What it came down to was that Michael and I decided we didn't want a lot of "stuff" for Elodie. The baby industry is booming for a reason - they make you think you need these things, and you buy them. Just as simple as that. Our registry was very small. Mostly things like pajamas, wash cloths, diapers, and bath items. And even then, half the bath stuff went back to the store because I just wash Elodie with a bar of my own natural oatmeal soap. We got a giant box of baby wipes, and I used about five before we decided to just use a warm, wet washcloth. We never bought little mittens to keep her from scratching her face, I laughed at the thought of a diaper pail, and I just file her tiny fingernails with my own nail file.
Babies don't need much. Children don't even need much. The constant desire to provide our kids with everything new and exciting out there is just creating an un closeable gap for them in their search of wanting more and more as they get older. Just provide them with the basic needs, food, shelter, love. I promise that in 30 years your child will not be mad at you or screwed up for not buying every little thing that Target and Babies R Us tells you you need to make your baby happy.
As far as what we actually use: A swing. Ours is the Lil'Lamb, and it was a hand-me-down from my sister. It's a savior when I want to put her down to eat, clean, or even work in the yard. I turn on the mobile and set her next to the open window facing the backyard so I can hear her. I turn on a cd because the music honestly annoys me :) One setting is just crickets, and I love that for her naps. But otherwise I only play her our music because I'm a music snob.
Our carseat is the Keyfit30. I also love it. I hung one tiny hand-made wool bird from the handle and she talks to it all day. I was not surprised to see that she didn't need something loud, obnoxious, and overly colorful to keep her entertained.
Our stroller is the Kolcraft Countours. Michael and I both love this thing. I carry her a lot of the time, but we are always so excited to bust it out and push her around in it. Since she's still young, we just pop our carseat into it (the seat it comes with is removable) and go.
We use a bassinet, also a hand-me-down from my sister. It's in our room next to my side of the bed, and Elodie has been sleeping there since day one. When she's not in bed with us :) She'll be in it for a couple more weeks and then she's off to her own room, to sleep in her crib.
Everything else that you need, you will realize with time. I didn't even use our baby bathtub for almost 2 months because I either washed her in the sink, or with me in the tub. I'd really suggest just buying the basic things, and getting everything else as you come across the need for them.
Victoria said...
I know you get so many questions about your photos, but I would so love to know how you photograph your family with that sunflare. Do you use a tripod or ask someone to shoot it for you? What setting do you use? Congratulations on a beautiful new chapter of life... I gave birth to my first (a son, Henry) on March 31, so I can relate to your every word.
I don't use the tripod for any photos of us, other than the maternity photos we took in the Fall. It's too hard to carry around, plus I'd feel kind of silly around a bunch of people setting up the tripod for a quick photo of us :) And I certainly never ask for help. Any time I have done that, people stare at my camera like it's an alien, so I gave up.
In the last 10 years that I've spent taking photos, I've had to come up with some pretty creative places to set it.
Like on the ground, tilted upwards with my purse.
Hanging from a tree branch by it's strap (seriously, that's why it's tilted) or on a rock.
I've balanced it on the hood of the car, on steps, and the backyard grill.
This one was taken on top of our stroller.
Anything can be a make-shift tripod, if you just look.
As far as flare goes, it's kind of the same thing. You can get flare from a 1 megapixel camera phone. There isn't a setting that produces it, it is from the source of light coming into your photo and where you position it that gives it flare. When you look through your lens, you can see it there. If you see it, it will be in the photo. My favorite element to work with is natural light, and I'd like to think that the flare is a little bit representative of my own personal style. So I've spent years trying to perfect it in photos.
(taken in the evening)
The best time of day to shoot it is either early morning, or evening. When the sun is closer to the horizon line, it's easier to get it in your shot and produce flare.
How do you make the moving photos?
I bought a program called Ulead Gif Animator last year, and I make them in that.
Will there be more posts on Backyard Farming?
Yes, eventually. With a new addition to the family, I have had to balance the time I have differently. And that means that she comes first, then working outside, and blogging about it last. I have quite a few posts on how to get your garden started at the top of my blog in the Backyard Farming section.
Will you share Elodie's birth story?
Hopefully, someday. I wrote it in a letter to her a few days after she was born, but that one is personal. I had a truly amazing experience, and feel so lucky that everything went well. I do hope to share it, so I can explain my experience with natural birth, and hopefully encourage other women to know that they can do the same. Right now I just need more than a few minutes to sit down and write something that important, and the time can't seem to find me. I will say that I will for sure share it, I just don't know when.
Did you have her at home?
For the first 22 weeks, we planned on having a home birth. But financially, we couldn't afford it, or the bill if we had to transfer to a hospital in case of an emergency. Insurance doesn't exactly support having a baby at home in your bath tub :) There is only one hospital in the state of Oklahoma - OU Medical Center - that allows midwife births. I was hesitant, because like most women that have seen it, The Business of Being Born scared the hospital birth out of me. But I had the most wonderful, downright amazing birth experience possible. I wore my own clothes, had the lights off, listened to my music, and labored in the tub. I ate, walked around, and made my own decisions. I wasn't hooked up to one machine, there was no unecessary intervention, and I was able to deliver naturally. In the end, I came home with a healthy baby and I was healthy myself - which is the most important thing. If you live in the Oklahoma City Metro, I'd really recommend looking into the midwives at OU Medical.
What does her name mean?
Elodie is a French name, meaning "riches."
We went back and forth on using a Persian name as her first or middle name, and ultimately decided that since we loved "Elodie" so much, that we wanted it to be her first name. French and Farsi are spoken from the same parts of the mouth, and the language rolls off the tongue in a strangely similar way. When I was pregnant, I asked Grandma and Grandpa what they thought of the name, and both of them could pronounce it like a word they'd known all along. Even though they even have trouble pronouncing my nephew's name - Brady. So we knew it was the name for us.
It is pronounced el-oh-DEE. When people stare at me in confusion, I say it's just Melody without the M, but that's not absolutely true. To hear my family say it is like music to my ears, because there are certain inflections that are lost when just taking the "M" away from Melody. I have a client that moved here from France and now teaches it at the University. I get lost in our conversation, not only because of how wonderful she is as a person, but her voice is like music itself. She has a heavy French accent, and I had her pronounce the name for me many times to make sure I was hearing it correctly. When Elodie met her for the first time, Bernadette held her and whispered sweet French words into her ears.
Her middle name - Neda, is Persian. I'm not quite ready to share it's meaning yet, because it makes me a bit weepy. And anything that makes me weepy calls for a long, wordy, emotional post that will come some day soon.
Will you be sharing photos of the nursery?
I am feeling a bit bad saying "some day" so many times, but I really will :) Here are a couple, for now.
Thank you all for your sweet words, and the support you leave here for me. The response I got on It Takes a Village was wonderful, and I loved reading all of your personal stories and accounts on the subject.
Sometimes family around is not always an option, but in those cases, you can always create your own village. Whether it is through friends, family, or any sort of child care that you can provide for your little one. As long as they know they have someone to go to when life gets hard, things will be just a little bit easier through those difficult times.
In the month of May, 95,305 of you visited this blog. 59,504 of you were new, and every month that number is climbing by the thousands. I am so happy to have all of you here, following this story. Please do say hello, anytime.
Our most exciting news this month came from a reader who let me know that Lauren Conrad had used a picture of my feet on her beauty blog.
Can you believe it? My friends have all gotten such a kick out of it, and are teasing me about my famous feet.
I took that photo with a 5 megapixel point and shoot camera, 6 years ago, on a trip to Destin, Florida.
Who knew that it would go places, some day.
I am also excited to share with you guys a project I will be working on the next couple months. I was so flattered when Leigh from Marvelous Kiddo asked me to be a part of a project for Sakura Bloom. Starting this week, myself and some pretty amazing Mama's with blogs will be taking part in the first-ever Sakura Bloom Styleathon. I absolutely adore this company and what they stand for, and can't wait to see what projects Leigh has for us.
Happy Monday, friends.
85 comments:
As always, such a lovely post and Elodie is one beautiful little girl. Can't wait to see more pictures of her room---the bedding your chose is gorgeous.
Also, congrats on your famous feet. :)
- June 6, 2011 at 1:16 PM
- Kalei's Best Friend said...
She has such a personality!. Wow, see how fast they grow?! I enjoyed reading your answers... I love how u have decorated her room and those old editions are priceless!. I wish it were summer here in Calif.... dreary June gloom
- June 6, 2011 at 1:20 PM
- a little white mouse said...
Your blog is wonderful. It brings me absolute joy to read it. Thank you so much for sharing all of your loveliness :)
- June 6, 2011 at 1:38 PM
- scsd said...
Such beautiful photos and an even more beautiful baby :)
blair @ scsd
- June 6, 2011 at 1:45 PM
- superhappyjohi said...
Aura, Thank you so much for this long and beautiful post! Elodie is so beautiful! I am so happy to hear that you had a great natural birth experience! Your new hammock is amazing! Have a lovely summer! Can´t wait the Sakura Bloom Stylathlon with you!
- June 6, 2011 at 1:45 PM
- kate said...
I love this little peek into your life as always. It takes me to another place. Thanks for sharing.
- June 6, 2011 at 1:54 PM
- AJD ∞ said...
My friend introduced me to your blog last week and I've been reading through your posts ever since. You seem so at peace and happy and you've inspired to me to really find the beauty in everything [especially when looking through my camera lens]. Thank you so much for sharing your life with the blogisphere. [A new devoted follower.]
- June 6, 2011 at 1:55 PM
- The Maiden Metallurgist said...
Elodie is looking lovely- I'm so happy to hear that you all are well.
- June 6, 2011 at 1:57 PM
- Angie said...
Hi Aura, I've been following you for awhile but have never commented. This is me stopping by to say HI :)
I love your blog. The pictures and stories are so genuine. Your maternity photos were amazing and I love, love, LOVE Elodie's nursery! Beautiful!!
I second the comment on sharing your birth story! I have three littles (Isaac 6, Gabe 4, and Selah 20 months)here and I've written out each of their stories. I read it to them each year on their birthday. I would love to hear all about how Elodie made her debut :)
I think you are a great mama. Confident in your decisions and knowing what is best for your family. Keep it up :)
Angie from Ohio
- June 6, 2011 at 2:02 PM
- Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga said...
What an amazing post. You are *so gracious* to answer all these reader questions in SUCH depth! I can only imagine how long it took you to do it!
I started blogging a couple years ago and although I post twice a day, and do answer ?'s, it's not to the level of detail you went into (and with a new baby no less)! so massive thank you to you!
And 5 things you need with a new baby? Boobs on the list...I laughed and yes, so true!
And I can relate to your story about carriers, your home birth, and so much more.
Love the pic of you, with your hubs holding baby in his lap. So beautiful and lovely!
- June 6, 2011 at 2:03 PM
- katy {of} katy loves. said...
She's so beautiful. I love your emphasis on minimalism with babies. They say babies need so much stuff, but most of this stuff wasn't around even twenty years ago. Babies are so happy with just getting love and the necessities. They will be better for it. Thanks for sharing some incite into your photography as well. Your images and words inspire me with every blog post, so thank you!
- June 6, 2011 at 2:11 PM
- Alex Byer said...
There's something about your words, your photos, the way you string them all into stories that enchants me to no end. I often find myself coming back to your blog and just rereading the words, almost to the point of knowing them by heart. There's just something so beautiful about the written word, and you bring it to life. You breathe life into letters. You make me excited to be a mom one day :)
- June 6, 2011 at 2:16 PM
- Unknown said...
Ohhh what a cutie! She's getting so big! :)
- June 6, 2011 at 2:22 PM
- Megan said...
Your blog is so refreshing and I love looking at all of your photos. You make life seem so wonderful and sweet. (which is the way it should be) thank you for choosing to share your life with all of us!
- June 6, 2011 at 2:25 PM
- Kelly said...
This may be the first time I've have commented on your blog, but I read consistently. Your blog is lovely...the words, the people, the stories, the love, oh and of course the photos, are all so lovely.
Blessings to you!
- June 6, 2011 at 2:25 PM
- Taylor C said...
beautiful post Aura. Thank you for all the FAQ :) I bet it is time consuming to put together your posts but your readers sure do appreciate it!
I would love to know where you purchased the "all I can do is be me..." print and the one of the two birds.
take care and thank you for sharing your stories with us.
- June 6, 2011 at 2:43 PM
- Melissa Blake said...
OMG, Elodie is getting so big!! She's beautiful! xoxo
- June 6, 2011 at 2:43 PM
- kristyn ellen said...
Famous feet -- that's so funny! Your baby is getting more and more beautiful, good grief! She is such a gorgeous sight! Appreciate all you share. :)
- June 6, 2011 at 2:48 PM
- Marie said...
Oh my goodness, Elodie is such a beautiful little one!!!! She has so much personality in her little expressions, already. I remember when my son (now 15 months) first started making little faces at me and smiling when he saw his family's faces.... it just melts your heart down to a little puddle, doesn't it?
It is wonderful to see you enjoying motherhood so. And good job on handling the anonymous judgmental criticizer!!
- June 6, 2011 at 2:58 PM
- Jaime said...
awesome post with beautiful words and gorgeous pictures!
- June 6, 2011 at 3:05 PM
- Unknown said...
I seriously cannot agree more with the baby industry, amount of things babies need vs. what they make you think you need. Diapers, carrier, washcloth, boobs, and something good to chew on --- you'll need that soon :)
I've been meaning to ask you, how do i contact you personally? I want to send your little love something :)
- June 6, 2011 at 3:12 PM
- amber lynn said...
baby e is getting so big! she is gorgeous and her hair is amazing. i love the hammock, maybe i need to drop some more hints to my hubby ;)
and the nursery is so pretty!!
- June 6, 2011 at 3:34 PM
First, she is just so adorable. I love her. <3
I always mean to comment on ALL your posts. I say to myself, I'll do it later, and then forget. One thing I have truly learned from you and take with me everyday is to not get so caught up in doing things that I forget to live life. Nothing is more important than spending time with my husband, but especially my son who will one day leave. So I am always happy to read, but I want to put as much thought in a comment as you do into your posts!
It is amazing the success you have encountered and yet still choose to not make money directly from your blog. And, HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN re: the Lauren Conrad thing. That is too funny!!!!!
Lastly, I'll be honest--I did not want to ask how you made the moving picture thing because the OTHER important thing I have learned from you is to be yourself; not just copy anything you see someone else doing. I am glad someone else asked! ;)
Much love,
- June 6, 2011 at 3:41 PM
- Nikole Taylor said...
Oh Aura! Your blog is a delight. I could easily spent 2 hours reading and admiring your photos!
I found your blog a year ago this July, when I was going through an extremely rough time. Your posts seriously brought a little bit of joy into my day. I must thank you!
Hope that wasn't too creepy :)
- June 6, 2011 at 4:01 PM
- Ashley said...
Your writing is beautiful and always warms my heart. Baby Elle is absolutely breathtaking. I love that you're passing along Farsi to her. I think there is something beautiful about parents passing along their culture and history to their children.
- June 6, 2011 at 4:25 PM
- stacy said...
love this post Aura.love seeing little elodie change each week! your blog is always a breath of fresh air in my day...xx
- June 6, 2011 at 4:44 PM
- El said...
Salaam Aura joon,
My husband is American so I always hope that we can pull of teaching our future children Farsi- which sparked my curiousity...thanks for answering! I like your idea of repeating things in Farsi :)
- June 6, 2011 at 5:07 PM
- Mama Mash said...
Hello Aura,
your garden is coming along nicely. Out of curiosity what is the tree behind the hammock? I should know as I work in a nursery, but it's hard to see from the picture.
- June 6, 2011 at 5:27 PM
- pretty odd wonders. said...
hi aura,
I've recently started following your blog and I just wanted to say how much I appreciate it. your photos, words and the mood you set in your posts. there is something so calm, comforting and beautiful in all of them. and you have given me wonderful ideas for photos!
thank you for a lovely blog, you have a devoted new follower!
- June 6, 2011 at 5:57 PM
Simply beautiful <3
- June 6, 2011 at 6:11 PM
- ::The Beetle Shack:: said...
You are amazing. no questions.
xo em
- June 6, 2011 at 6:48 PM
- susanne @ tall pine nest said...
I like that you don't "blog" like all the others. Thanks for being real. It's inspiring.
- June 6, 2011 at 6:49 PM
- Anna said...
Oh that is what those light spots are called, flare. I feel that I must capture some now :) Thank you for continuing to write and share your knowledge with us. Elodie is so beautiful. Whenever I say her name in my head I pronounce it the way it should be.
- June 6, 2011 at 7:48 PM
- M. Eileen said...
love this blog! congrats on your famous feet! We have the same ukulele that you have in Elodie's nursery! I'm looking forward to the day that my husband and I can use it to sing songs to our wee one.
If you don't mind me asking. What type of organic soap do you use? I have sensitive skin and am trying to switch it up and find something that doesn't irritate my skin! Thanks :)
- June 6, 2011 at 8:01 PM
beautiful photos and words! would you be willing to share where you got the print with the bob dylan quote and the bird cages that's in elodie's room?
- June 6, 2011 at 8:04 PM
- Stephanie Precourt said...
Beautiful beautiful! All of it.
- June 6, 2011 at 8:45 PM
- Bella said...
Is her middle name in honor of Neda Soltan?
- June 6, 2011 at 8:47 PM
- Kiersten said...
Aura, Elodie looks gorgeous - as always, I love your photos of her!
And I'm completely jealous of your hammock - we had one at the house I grew up in, but when we moved we left it for the new owners.
It sounds like you're all enjoying your summer!
<3 Kiersten
- June 6, 2011 at 9:52 PM
- withoutizy said...
You're such a beautiful mumma! I hope one day I can be as in love with life as you are = ) it's so beautiful to read! Love your pics, and I'm quite jealous of that hammock! xx
- June 6, 2011 at 10:12 PM
- Jodi said...
swaying with baby elodie in a hammock - what bliss for you gorgeous muma! So excited to see you announced as a stylish blogging babywearing muma - can't wait to see what you come up with. I'm about to buy a sakura bloom sling this week...can't wait to wear my own bundle in it.
love to you and happy gardening x
- June 6, 2011 at 10:18 PM
- Jessica said...
This was such a wonderful post :)!
When the first picture loaded, my first thought was, "look at that precious angel!" She's wonderful! Oh how I miss that age...(mama sigh).
The hammock! Oh my goodness the hammock! love. love. love! I wish we had one so my almost 2 year old could swing like a little monkey in it (she's obsessed with swinging right now).
I can't wait to hear about your natural birth story. I know it is something very personal and special, and I appreciate that you would share it with us. I hope to have a natural birth with my next child (whenever that may be down the road), so I would love to hear any words of encouragement you have lol! :) My first birth was medicated, except my epidural wore off completely on the left side of my body, so needless to say it was interesting...:)
I hope you have a wonderful week and will be checking back very frequently for another peek into your precious life!
Love to you and your family!
- June 6, 2011 at 10:30 PM
I'm hoping to have a baby in a year or two and I love that I can use your blog to navigate my way through it. Thank you for these wonderful posts, they are all so open and so complete.
- June 7, 2011 at 12:27 AM
- Melanie said...
Firstly, It's so amazing the vast inspiration that your blog now provides for so many people. You really can't call it your "little" corner of the internet anymore.. because it's really become so much more than that now. :D Congrats to you on that!
Also, I can only count on one hand the amount of people that I follow intently over the internet, and you are one of them. :)
I have finally discovered the elements of what keeps me coming back to these people's lives and stories...
1- Creativity/originality. Whether it be art, music, photography or writing, I come back to inspired.
2- Honesty. I've noticed this is something that fascinates me in a world where it's so easy to "fake" an image. Honesty is beautiful and refreshing.
3- Love. Nothing negative ever comes from love. Love of family, love of art, love of what you do, and mostly just a love of life.
For those reasons, I will probably always come back for more. :)
- June 7, 2011 at 12:48 AM
- siniann said...
Love that hammock, Michael did do great work! I absolutely want a hammock when we have a garden. Can't wait what the new project of Sakura Bloom will be, even I'm not mom, I'm still into the baby stuff more and more (whaat, am I getting old?)
happy week, Aura!
- June 7, 2011 at 2:35 AM
- umi said...
hi aura-j,
thanks again for your honesty.
i am so proud of you for doing what feels right for you as an individual, not just as a mum. Elodie will certainly have great respect for you for your integrity of actions. The impact of a happy, fulfilled mum on a little one, on the ambience of a family and on a home cannot be understated.
i admire the grace with which you have handled this topic.
there is no doubt that the way you have chosen to balance your work/family time is the same as how many, many generations of ethnic (and ethnic-blended) families have done. what a lucky girl she is to be getting so much love from so many people who have her best interests at heart. as a childcare worker i see all too often the impact of the nuclear family on both parents and children and i am so happy for you all that you are all getting to share this precious task of mothering/grandmothering/great-grandmothering! Elodie's life will be rich indeed!
blessings and much love,
- June 7, 2011 at 6:11 AM
- Charity P. said...
Hi, Aura- I always so look forward to your posts. I often get online just to see if you've posted anything new yet! :) There is something about reading your blog that always makes me feel inspired and at peace, all at once.
- June 7, 2011 at 7:55 AM
- Cait said...
Aura - what a lovely post. I always love to see your beautiful pictures and read your inspiring words. Thank you for sharing!
- June 7, 2011 at 9:19 AM
- Jacki said...
I love the hammock! wish my husband will build me one too!
- June 7, 2011 at 9:43 AM
- Bethany Susan said...
i love your blog, your stories, your insights, your photos.. and your way of putting real life and your family first. keep inspiring!
- June 7, 2011 at 10:20 AM
- Learning said...
Thanks so much for taking time to answer our questions!! I so appreciate the beauty that you share.
- Angela
- June 7, 2011 at 10:42 AM
- Country Girl said...
Hello Aura!
Good response to the question about "letting someone else raise your kid". I think some people forget that we were individuals BEFORE we were mothers (some of us for longer than others). As much as each child is a miracle and we love them each endlessly, our individual is still inside. If we suffocate it, we die a little. I'm speaking from the position of a mother who has just gone back to work part time as a health care professional 8 years after the birth of my first daughter. I am still homeschooling my girls, but I feel like I actually have MORE to give them now that am feeding my indivual self. It is a personal decision, as you said, and no one should question that.
Blessings to you!
- June 7, 2011 at 11:41 AM
- Lindsey said...
i'm not exactly sure how i stumbled upon your blog, but i'm sure glad i have. what incredible photos, and beautiful words. really and truly.
- June 7, 2011 at 12:05 PM
- The littlest said...
hi aura,
so happy to have found your sweet blog through leigh at marvelous kiddo - my little 2 1/2 year old is elodie too (and my husband is michael!) just stopping by to say hi - how beautiful that you honor your family so. your little elodie is blessed that she gets to have them in her life!
have a wonderful week.
xo elizabeth
- June 7, 2011 at 1:21 PM
- Mel said...
I come to read your blog for a break. Your voice, even in your writing, is soothing and your stories are a wonderful reminder that we have control over our world.
Thank you for sharing.
- June 7, 2011 at 2:19 PM
- Heather A. said...
Aura, every time you post it's exactly what I needed to hear! I'm due for my 1st in September. I don't want a lot of "stuff" for her, so thank you for your run down of what you use.
I have another question for you though... How's Hunter? We haven't seen any mention of him lately. Did he take well to Elodie? Is he being a good big brother? I have 3 dogs that mean the world to me. I can't wait to share our daughter with them.
- June 7, 2011 at 4:03 PM
Beautiful post once again. Thank you for sharing so much and taking the time to answer all the questions. I am always inspired by your words, photos and outlook on life. Looking forward to your next post.
-Miss J
- June 7, 2011 at 4:38 PM
- Shea said...
Aura, Thank you so much for sharing your life with us. I look forward to your posts, and I think the fact that I don't see a new one daily makes them that much more special. Elodie is the sweetest little peanut and I am happy that you seem to be leading with your heart in all things that you do, including parenting. I am extremely jealous of that beautiful hammock and I now have an itch to make one myself ( I even pinned the picture).
Enjoy these wonderful, beautiful , fleeting moments.
Love, Shea
- June 7, 2011 at 5:35 PM
- Shea said...
p.s. I never, ever think it's a good idea to tell another mother how to raise her baby and I think you handled that question much more graciously that I ever could have. Well done-as always. xoxo
- June 7, 2011 at 5:38 PM
Your daughter is stunning!
- June 7, 2011 at 5:49 PM
- Leslie said...
Hi Aura!
I'm relatively new to your blog, but I just wanted to take a quick moment to share with you how much you have inspired me. You have inspired me to take more time to be creative and artistic and thoughtful on my blog (and in life in general). You have sparked more of an interest in photography. You have encouraged me to continue having adventures with my husband. You have made me want to be outside more, and go on hikes and walks. You have reminded me that it's ok to wait to start my family a couple more years, and that when we do start our family, life won't be "over" (as so many cynics say) but will be different and new. I can't wait to show my own baby the world some day, and continue seeking life and all it has to offer as a family. Lastly, you have inspired me to notice the little things in life in a richer, fuller way.
I didn't know it was possible for a blog or a person I've never met to have such an affect on me, but you truly have! Thank you so much for sharing your life on here. Reading through your posts is a breath of fresh air.
- June 8, 2011 at 8:34 AM
- Nolita said...
Lovely hammock and Elodie's room is so sumptuous! She's a lucky little girl! Thanks for being such inspiration to so many people! Blissings!
- June 8, 2011 at 9:56 AM
- amynicole said...
I'm a new reader to your blog and I love all the advice you give, your creativity, and your outlook on things. Your garden and baby girl are stunning! I have a question for you and was wondering if you could email me back whenever you get a chance--I didn't see an email to contact you or anything, so I figure comments are best :) I thought I remember seeing you mention it, but couldn't find it again. Did you wear a belly band, if so, what did you use? I'm looking for one and am not sure what brands or styles are best. Also, did you use a body pillow for sleeping? I'm trying to figure that out too, I've seen so many different styles, but don't know where to begin. I'm new to this pregnancy world and since you just lived it, I thought you might have an answer or two from your experiences :) I really appreciate it! My email is email@example.com
- June 8, 2011 at 1:45 PM
- . said...
Hi Aura,
I recently found your blog and enjoy reading it so much! I have a 17 week old daughter named Aura :)
I agree on baby 'stuff'. So many unnecessary things. I'm looking forward to the Sakura Bloom project, I'd absolutely love one of those slings too but I will have to wait until we have enough money :)
For now, enjoy your days with Elodie, she is adorable!
- June 8, 2011 at 2:36 PM
I am having such a hard time finding bedding for our crib that both my husband and I can agree on. Luckily (for me!) I showed him a picture of your beautiful bedding and he loved it! May I ask where you got it from?
- June 8, 2011 at 3:48 PM
- Betsy said...
Nice! I love Petunia Pickle Bottom. We have the Wistful Weekender (it's basically like a big carpet bag). Not as practical as I would have liked, but sooo beautiful.
And you're so right about all the baby paraphernalia nonsense. There's so much crap out there just so people will stick it on their registries and think they need it.
I've learned in these 3.5 months that if you need any piece of baby gear (a sunhat, a swing, a bouncy chair, a Bumbo, you name it!) someone right around the corner is ready to get rid of theirs.
Elodie looks like she is from another time. Like, you can't tell from any of your photos that it's 2011. Love it.
- June 8, 2011 at 10:55 PM
- Betsy said...
P.s. I know who you look like now!
- June 8, 2011 at 10:59 PM
- Zamora Desert Vintage said...
Aura, YOU ROCK! Thanks for putting in your time to answer these questions, and of course mine. I will be working on my yard tomorrow, and I will get back to you on your ideas! Beautiful pictures, and loving the sweet baby girl. She's growing!!! I love it. Xo
- June 9, 2011 at 1:17 AM
- Tairalyn said...
LOVE LOVE LOVE Her Bedroom! My Goodness!
Just in the midst of designing my Daughters Bedroom - slowly but surely it will get done before her arrival in September.
I take great inspiration from this post - THANK YOU!
Your newest FOllower and Fan! Such a gorgeous mother you are!
Would love for you to pop by Little Miss Mama - I always make sure a fresh pot of Tea is on :)
- June 9, 2011 at 10:52 AM
I, too, would love to know where you got Élodie's bed linen. Love this blog, it's my very favourite!
- June 9, 2011 at 11:45 AM
- Unknown said...
I liked this post. So much of you in there (which, I suppose, is nothing new). I'm so happy that you are getting so very many visitors to your blog.
- June 9, 2011 at 12:37 PM
- Deja said...
Hi Aura,
Thank you for posting these wonderful photos. I always come to read your blog for inspiration and to motivate me to get out in my yard. One question, where did you get the hammock? I've been begging my husband to build a frame for me, but I haven't found a hammock like yours that looks really comfortable.
- June 9, 2011 at 2:31 PM
- Miya said...
Hello Aura,
I'm new to your blog (thelittestblog led me here!) and I must say it is one of THE MOST inspiration and truely beautiful blogs I've ever read. I find the way you write about your life, and all the little things that inspire you, are inspiring to EVERYONE. I've never read a blog where I felt so calm and refreshed after each entry. Your life seems so balanced and you have a good sense of the directions you want to go in- I can only hope that one day I find the same balance between my personal goals and my family life. There is SO much more I could say about how wonderful you and your blog are, but I think that most of your readers have already shared the same thoughts I have with you :) Thank you so much for sharing your life with us - you've become an instant favorite read of mine, and a role-model/inspiration to me. I look forward to all your future posts!
- June 9, 2011 at 2:36 PM
- Alexandra said...
Aura. The words you write never fail to be inspiring and beautiful. I have no doubt I must sound like everyone else, so I'll spare you the redundancy as best I can. Thank you for sharing these small pieces of your life with Elodie. You capture a very pure sense of what love is in your photos, and especially your words. Not only in this post but in your blog as a whole.
- June 10, 2011 at 12:41 AM
Randomest question! How tall are you?
- June 10, 2011 at 5:26 AM
- Julie said...
This is a really wonderful post. Elodie is really beautiful, it's so nice to hear how organically you talk about her and the type of life you want to give her. I think it's really beautiful. Wishing you a fun weekend, Aura. xo
- June 10, 2011 at 11:39 AM
- Jhope said...
So nice to see miss e's growth through your always gorgeous photography, which I often show to my little girl. Thanks for still taking the time to share w us! I cried (and commented) when I first read the announcement that she was born, and saw her middle name....touching tribute.
- June 10, 2011 at 2:07 PM
- ♡Shayla♡ said...
I love this! so beautiful!
My favorite thing is finding fellow Okie bloggers, especially blogs with so much beauty of our great state! <3 wonderful wonderful miss Aura. keep it up! <3 you've won me over.
- June 11, 2011 at 10:44 AM
- Kelly@TearingUpHouses said...
elodie is gorgeous! love the moving photos, especially.
- June 11, 2011 at 2:31 PM
- amber said...
aura~ i love your cool laid back vibe here.. so inspirational and talented and gorgeous - but so obviously not into yourself. seems a rare quality among women these days - both real life & blogging world. wish we could sit and chat over a cup of tea..
so glad i found your site, don't even remember how exactly, but glad. :)
from a fellow tired mama soaking in these wonder days~
- June 12, 2011 at 3:22 PM
- Devon said...
It's interesting how different words strike chords with different folks. I love your blog but especially respected your answer to the 'leaving your child' and not being a stay at home mom. As a working mom of 2, I feel unbelievably thankful that we have such a small village of people around us (family and non-family) willing to pitch in and help raise our boys while I work. Being a mom is my number one priority, but I also like to work. Thank goodness for strong men and women that support us in not only understanding that working is okay but actually encouraging us to do so. I can't tell you how many times I've wanted to quit my job because I'm overwhelmed or feel guilty--only to have my mom say 'suck it up' or 'your boys are doing just great.' Funny words, I'm sure, but they are always what I need to hear. Bravo for family support--and bravo to you. Thank you.
- June 12, 2011 at 10:53 PM
I found your blog today and am completely smitten. Thank you for sharing as you do!
I was wondering if you could tell me where you found the "All I can do is be me..." print that I see pictured in this post, in Elodie's nursery? Thanks so much!
Karen Beth
msred5 at gmail dot com
- June 15, 2011 at 4:53 PM
- Unknown said...
I love your blog. My husband and I are embarking on putting in our back yard and I would love to know where you got your hammock? We have high winds here so the wood to hold the hammock up is the perfect idea. any ideas to the perfect hammock is welcome. If you have time please email me at firstname.lastname@example.com
slc, utah
- June 18, 2011 at 12:01 PM
- Under Her Charm said...
Hello - thanks so much for sharing how you make the animated gifs! I got Ulead, and have been playing with it on my blog. I added some credits for your inspiration and ideas. I hope this is ok with you. I am really having fun with the program, and now my kids are always asking me to make "moving pictures" of them!! email@example.com
- August 1, 2011 at 12:28 PM
I wish you all the best for you familly :)
From what I heard (my parents), Elodies are very strong minded but also very sensitive girls.
I always liked the fact that my name have a bit of poesy in it: the pronounciation of Elodie, sounds just like "Et l'eau dit..."
(and the water says...).
- July 13, 2012 at 4:43 AM
I wish you all the best for you familly :)
From what I heard (my parents), Elodies are very strong minded but also very sensitive girls.
I always liked the fact that my name have a bit of poesy in it: the pronounciation of Elodie, sounds just like "Et l'eau dit..."
(and the water says...).
- July 13, 2012 at 4:43 AM


text:
The CMD183C4 is a compact RF / Microwave I/Q mixer MMIC in a leadless surface mount (SMT) package that can be used as either an image reject mixer or a single sideband upconverter. The CMD183C4 I/Q mixer utilizes two double balanced mixer cells and a 90 degree hybrid. An external IF hybrid is needed to complete the image rejection. The CMD183C4 MMIC is a much smaller alternative to higher-cost hybrid image reject mixers and single sideband upconverter assemblies.
Released – for new design
|Part Description
|Freq. LO/RF (GHz)
|7.5 - 13
|Freq. IF (GHz)
|LO drive (dBm)
|Conver. Gain (dB)
|LO-RF Isolation (dB)
|LO-IF Isolation (dB)
|Input IP3 (dBm)
|4x4 mm QFN
Provide us a few details and we'll keep you posted on new releases and you'll always have easy access to our growing library of design files and tech briefs when you revisit. (Requires cookies to be turned on.)
In addition to offering delivery from stock on our own evaluation boards for nearly all our die and packaged devices, Custom MMIC has also put nearly 30% of our devices into the X-Microwave block system. This drop-in simulation, prototyping, and production system enables efficient and expedient microwave and millimeter-wave circuit development and testing.
Custom MMIC strives to design all of our MMIC devices in a manner such that they can be readily chosen for your space application. We have an extensive history of successfully screening and qualifying our product to space applications per MIL-PRF-38534, MIL-PRF-38535, NASA INST standards and customer specific requirements. We collaborate with our customers to determine the appropriate screening and qualification based on their specific mission. Our space product screening and qualification are performed in-house and with approved partners. Whether you are looking for a space screened die, hermetically sealed packaged product or non-hermetic packaged product, Custom MMIC is prepared to help you address your qualification requirements
Design alternative parts have been engineered and manufactured to replicate the form, fit and function of the original part as closely as possible. Compare datasheets and see for yourself the design flexibility and continued reliability and performance design alternates have to offer.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
KFYO Ammo Report — Special of the Week is at LSG Tactical Arms
Four dealers took part in the survey this week: Sharpshooters, LSG Tactical Arms, and Gander Mountain, all in Lubbock; and Tibbet's Gun Works in Floyd County. We checked on the availability of six calibers…22, 9mm, 380, 40, 357, and 45. On the day of our survey, all 4 dealers had each of the 6 calibers in stock.
The special of the week is at LSG Tactical Arms, where you can get Tula full metal jacket 9mm ammo, a box of 50, for $12.50.
Look for KFYO's Ammo Report every Thursday on KFYO and www.kfyo.com .


text:
mschweighoefer11 April 22nd, 2010
so many good things have happened today 🙂
-finished my paper for human sexuality class. all that is left is to print and turn in.
-got all our results analyzed for our final lab report in learning/behavior. am 0298347982742 steps ahead of every other group in the class.
-opera -the magic flute- is tomorrow night—-come! 8:15 in mcgaw chapel
-nooooooooooo class tomorrow-its the IS symposium so we spend all day walking around watching presentations on IS.
-its really nice out.
-schools almost out!


text:
Selena Gomez Announces She's 'Taking My Power Back' [PHOTO]
It's certainly been a roller-coaster year for Selena Gomez. The singer had a stint in rehab, dealt with pregnancy rumors, broke down during an inspiring speech to fans, was subpoenaed in one of Justin Bieber's lawsuits, dealt with an intruder in her new house -- twice, hired new management and purged her Instagram account. However, Sel reassured fans that good things are coming!
Yesterday (May 20), the actress posted a bikini shot of herself on Instagram, along with the caption, "Taking my power back.. can't wait to show you where I've been. I love y'all. Ps, I still obsess over pickles." Selena is positively glowing in the photo, which shows her relaxed playing in the surf at a beach.
While we don't know what Selena has up her sleeve, we bet it's something exciting! She looks so happy in the photo, and her post script about pickles is so adorable! We're glad to see her so relaxed after what has clearly been an eventful year.


text:
Courtesy Giada De Laurentiis
The tree's done. The stockings are hung. Giada De Laurentiis and her family — husband Todd Thompson and their daughter Jade Marie — are officially ready to host the holidays.
"Christmas Eve is the big tradition in an Italian family. It's when my entire family gets together," the newest face of Clairol tells PEOPLE exclusively.
"This year, for the first time, it will be held at my house … so Jade and I and my husband are very excited."
On the menu for the family festivities is "a big fish dinner," one that no doubt Jade will help her mother to prepare. After all, adds the celebrity chef, she is the unofficial taste tester.
"My daughter loves to cook. We have a lot of laughs together. I spend a lot of time in the kitchen and she loves hanging out with me," De Laurentiis, 42, shares. "The reason she loves it so much is because she can stick her finger in everything and taste it as she goes along."
Once the big dinner is done with, and the evening starts to wind down, De Laurentiis and Jade will start to prepare for the night's biggest guest to arrive: Santa Claus. At 4 -years-old, her little girl is still a strong believer in the magic of it all, notes her proud mama.
"She leaves him little treats — for the reindeer and for him too — and she's very much a believer in Santa," De Laurentiis says. "I hope she'll be a believer for a long time, I think it's really fun for kids to be able to do that."
Recently, the pair sat down to write out Jade's wish list, but after much pleading on Jade's part over the past few weeks, it's no surprise as to what she hopes to find under the tree this year.
"The one thing she keeps asking me for over and over again is clip-on earrings. She must have seen them on somebody else, but she has asked me for clip-on earrings for the past month," De Laurentiis notes. "I am on a mission to find clip-on earrings for her because I don't think she'll ever forgive me if I don't."
But based on her newly transformed play space, the "girly girl's" specific accessory request should come as no surprise.
"She's opened up her own little salon in her playroom. She gives free makeovers, she curls people's hair and gives them little manicures as well," De Laurentiis says. "I've always been a girly girl my whole life — maybe she will, maybe she won't — but it's a lot of fun to play with her right now."
– Anya Leon with reporting by Kate Hogan


text:
"Dashiell Hammett . . . is a master of the detective novel, yes, but also one hell of a writer." –The Boston Globe
"The Maltese Falcon is not only probably the best detective story we have ever read, it is an exceedingly well written novel." –The Times Literary Supplement (London)
"Hammett's prose [is] clean and entirely unique. His characters [are] as sharply and economically defined as any in American fiction." –The New York Times


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text:
Harvin's Ankle Could Keep Him From Playing Sunday
Viking receiver Percy Harvin sustained a sprained ankle in 3 different places Sunday against Seattle and the injury could force him to the sidelines against the Lions. Harvin returned the game Sunday at Seattle after sustaining the injury but he was favoring the ankle. Head coach Leslie Frazier said the sprain is not a high ankle sprain.
Harvin has played through numerous injuries in the past and managed to perform at a high level. He's expected to miss practice time this week but hasn't been ruled out for the game Sunday.
The 5-4 Vikings host the 4-4 Lions at noon Sunday, pregame on WJON at 11am.


text:
The lifestyles of the rich and famous are vastly different than most people. But that doesn't mean they don't enjoy Christmas.
To help people get into the holiday spirit, stars took to social media to share how they are celebrating the holidays.
U.S. & World
Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Jay Z, Justin Bieber, and Mariah Carey shared pictures with family and friends. Some were heartwarming while others were pretty silly.
Check out how Hollywood is celebrating the holidays.


text:
Science in Focus: Allen T. Newton
Take a Look Inside
If a picture is worth a thousand words, an image is worth a thousand measurements. Imaging offers information on a scale that completely changes what we are capable of learning, and thus what we are capable of doing. Medical imaging has seen an amazing level of innovation and growth, and 2012 has continued this trend. Some of these advances change what we know about the human body and how it works. Others have changed how we approach clinical challenges and study a body that doesn't work quite right. All of them combine to create a field of medical imaging that allows us to visualize the inner workings of our bodies in new and important ways.
Consider, for example, the work done in imaging patients suspected of having Alzheimer's Disease. As the brain works, it consumes energy. The gas keeping our cerebral cars running comes in the form of glucose, which we can measure with an imaging study called a FDG-PET scan. Studies have shown that the brains of patients with Alzheimer's Disease indeed are starting to slow down (i.e., consume less glucose). However, learning this requires injecting an expensive radioactive tracer which isn't commonly available in many locations due to the technical difficulties associated with actually manufacturing and delivering it. Instead, there has been recent work showing that it may be possible to forego imaging glucose directly, and instead image blood flow (which then transports glucose) as an alternative. The advantage here is that this technique uses widely available and non-invasive MRI equipment, doesn't expose anyone to harmful radiation, and can be significantly less expensive while yielding very similar results. As brain activity begins to slow, so too does blood flow begin to decrease. Interestingly, we should recognize that this is the application of an existing technique in a new way that has clear and definite benefits to patient care.
Similarly, imaging has taken advantage of advances made in computer engineering and mathematics to lay the groundwork to revolutionize how we will be acquiring images in the near future. One example is the application of "compressed sensing" techniques to image reconstruction. Compressed sensing makes use of redundant information in images to reduce the number of measurements that actually have to be made for any given exam. Much like the way you can reconstruct an entire Sudoku puzzle, given only a few of the numbers, we can reconstruct entire images given a relatively small number of measurements. The result is shorter imaging studies, higher quality images, and fewer demands placed on patients. This is already being realized in the research imaging context, and will certainly play a role in clinical imaging at some point in the future.
In summary, the field of imaging has seen a great deal of innovation and advancement over the course of the last year. While the forms these advances take may change, they all come back to the goal of improving patients' lives. 2012 has seen many steps in that direction, and I have no doubt we will be able to see more going forward.
Allen T. Newton is Senior Imaging Research Specialist at Vanderbilt University.
Copyright © 2012 Books & Culture. Click for reprint information.
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The ghost of Charlie Harper keeps haunting Two and a Half Men. Now, it turns out he has a long lost daughter!
According to Deadline, the CBS comedy is casting for a new female series regular who is in her late teens or early 20s. When the show returns in the fall, the new leading lady will show up on the doorstep of Walden Schmidt (Ashton Kutcher) looking for her now-dead father (Charlie Sheen). The daughter soon moves in, joining Walden and Alan (Jon Cryer) under one roof.
Add new fall shows to your Watchlist
Last month, CBS announced that the series was renewed for an 11th season, but that original cast member Angus T. Jones wouldn't be returning full-time. Sheen was fired from the show in March of 2011 and was eventually replaced by Kutcher.
What do you think of the new story line? And who should play Charlie's daughter?


text:
Forecasters flop as storm moves out to sea
MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — A storm that was expected to bring several inches of snow to parts of New Hampshire by Tuesday morning has moved out to sea.
The National Weather Service says winter storm warnings and advisories have been cancelled. Snow amounts Tuesday over southeast New Hampshire are expected to range from a dusting to 2 inches.
The city of Portsmouth declared a snow emergency starting at 11 p.m. Monday, but canceled it at 6 a.m. Tuesday when the storm didn't materialize.
Forecasters appear to be correct, however, in their predictions that the season's coldest weather was on its way. Arctic air and well-below normal temperatures are predicted through the end of the week, and the temperature in Dover started to fall this afternoon.


text:
Arabic Wikipedia editors in a 2015 meetup. Photo by Habib M'henni, CC BY-SA 3.0.
By Samir Elsharbaty
May 12th, 2017
Arabic Wikipedia editors in a 2015 meetup. Photo by Habib M'henni, CC BY-SA 3.0.
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The Wikimedia Foundation operates some of the largest collaboratively edited reference projects in the world.
The Wikimedia projects have an international scope, and the Wikimedia movement has already made a significant impact throughout the world. To continue this success on an organizational level, Wikimedia is building an international network of associated organizations.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 unported license. Some images under CC BY-SA.
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text:
Originally posted by Dan Tangherlini on Federal Times
More than 60 years ago, the General Services Administration was founded in the wake of World War II to deliver consistent and responsive services to federal agencies, services which would also ensure value to taxpayers. Today, everyone at GSA continues to take enormous pride in that mission and since April of this year, we have been engaged in an effort to refocus this agency on our core objective of providing effective and efficient service for the entire federal government.
At a time when every agency is coping with shrinking budgets and growing expectations, we know that the services GSA provides have never been more important. For the past five months, GSA has conducted a top-to-bottom review to examine how we operate and what reforms could be implemented to help the entire federal government give the American people the service they deserve.
This review has already yielded several important reforms that are generating better service and greater savings throughout the government.
We are streamlining our service by consolidating several offices within GSA. We have consolidated all budget, finance and accounting personnel under the chief financial officer. We are finalizing consolidation of our information technology, personnel, budgets and systems under the chief information officer and bringing all human capital management personnel and operations together under the chief people officer.
Through this consolidation, we are ensuring that GSA provides consistent, transparent and efficient service to all our customers.
However, GSA is not only focusing on internal improvements. We have also instituted several programs and reforms that should drastically improve our customer service.
As the government's savings agency, we have developed programs to drive down travel costs government-wide while also offering greater transparency, including the E-Gov Travel Service System and City Pairs. Another recent effort by GSA to help save our fellow agencies money on travel is FedRooms, which competes hotel room prices and can provide federal travelers an average of 5 percent savings from standard per-diem rates.
GSA has also frozen per-diem reimbursement rates for the first time in a decade in order to comprehensively review the methodology used to determine those rates. We have created a Federal Advisory Committee to provide a forum for expert industry advice on these rates moving forward. This action will help agencies save an estimated $20 million in avoided costs next year.
For the first time in years, GSA has begun reviewing many of the fees assessed on other agencies for use of GSA schedules or other services. We have proposed reductions in fees to ensure savings of millions of dollars for our government customers. We are convening an inter-agency working group to review and develop recommendations on the overall fee structure for the schedules.
GSA is also leading the way in the government's transition to cloud computing, which will not only increase the efficiency and access to our data systems, but also create significant savings. We are already offering cloud-based email services that lower the cost of email by up to 50 percent annually and save $1 million for every 7,500 email boxes. Last year, GSA was the first federal agency to move to a cloud-based email system, saving $2 million to date, with an expected $15 million reduction in IT costs over the next five years.
As more agencies begin to use cloud systems, we have introduced the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, known as FedRAMP, to standardize security assessments of cloud products and services across the government to avoid duplication and needless expenditures.
In these times of severe fiscal stress, government agencies need to work together more than ever to leverage our scale and our skill for the American people. GSA provides efficient, shared services and a common platform for agencies to reduce costs, increase value and improve outcomes. Moving forward, we are committed to earning both your business and your trust!
Dan Tangherlini is acting administrator of the General Services Administration.


text:
United States, Akron
Last Login: 11/20/19 3:06:24 AM
Important details of putnamehere
|>5'7" - 5'9" [170cm - 175cm]
|180 - 200 lbs [80 - 90 kg]
What makes me horny
I love a pretty woman with a sweet voice, long hair,and fair skin with a pink or pinkish lavender pussy and nipples. I love a woman to be loving and passionate and use words like love,pussy, titties, ass, cock or big cock, man, beautiful sexy. Anything loving and sweet as I am a passionate lover who loves to express my deepest feelings sometimes to the point of tears of love and ravage my lovers body ideally making her feel the utmost pleasure in her body and heart.I love to kiss during sex on the lips, neck, or anywhere that is turning me on and I love french kissing gently and sweetly. I also like to talk what I call loving dirty talk using words similar to those above and make my lover know she is the most beautiful sexy woman there is but right now I am single and not having any live intercourse.I love my freedom but pay a high price in loneliness and desire seeking to meet that special someone who understands my loving but perverse nature and doesn't judge me for it. I am a one woman man. When I am with someone I try my best not to do anything such as flirt or give of myself to any other woman. I am also a romantic but I am a realist thinking I may never have the mate I so very deeply need and desire :>(
What turns me off
I can't get along with anyone who is unable to compromise with me or who doesn't value my opinions or desires as much as their own. I am a Libra and Libras are all about being compassionate,empathetic, and fair. I don't care for rude,mean people or anyone that thinks they are better than anyone else people who make fun or laugh at other people Anyone who can't stand to be wrong or can't say they are sorry and mean it.I don't like mean dirty talk much using words like slut,bitch,cunt I am okay with fuck me baby, or honey When I'm starting to feel good and getting close things like fuck me baby or I love you baby repeated several times will usually bring me to climax. This is more about me than my ex-wife ever cared to know.
Comments (1)
I know this space is intended for a comment to me not from me but oh well that probably isn't going to happen anyway There are many attractive friendly and sexy women on here My personal favorite is Victoriahot I have only been on here a couple months This is something I don't always do Right now I'm just looking to build my confidence and also make a beautiful woman feel special and happy That gives me the greatest pleasure to see a beautiful spontaneous smile or laugh
There are no comments yet


text:
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- It was part of the international relationship building he spoke about to the graduating pilots from Euro NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program, Aug. 9., here that has propelled Lt. Gen. (Ret.) John Bradley into a post-military career passion.
During his service as the chief of Air Force Reserve and commander of Air Force Reserve Command, he made multiple trips to Afghanistan to visit reservists deployed to the region under his command.
Hearing about the great need for humanitarian aid for the war-torn, impoverished people all over Afghanistan, he and his wife, Jan, decided they would fill an empty C-17 Globemaster III with blankets, shoes, cold weather clothing and medical supplies during a scheduled trip in 2007, he said. In all, he delivered 40,000 pounds on 14 cargo pallets. During that fateful trip, an Air Force Office of Special Investigations agent accompanied him to a small village near the base to hand deliver the goods. The area was primitive, he said, littered with trash and mud thatched housing. The homes have no glass in the windows and no kitchen, except for a hole in the center of the dirt floor where all meals are cooked on a "camp fire" style flame. The place they consider a bathroom is a hole in the earth, and the town has one well where water is drawn. "It's heart wrenching to go there and see the extreme poverty that exists in Afghanistan," Jan said. "I love to go there and be immersed in their culture. The Afghan people are very gracious and hospitable. They are grateful, hardworking and patient, but they are tired of war. We hope that what little we do has a positive impact on some of the most disenfranchised people in the world. They deserve a better life."
As Bradley was handing out supplies in late 2007, surrounded by young boys, he said his attention was caught by a little girl wearing sandals, ragged clothing and a red head covering, fighting her way to the front to meet the man in the uniform. She spoke Farsi, and pointed at his feet.
"I was handing out blankets in this village, and this little 9-year-old girl came up to me and begged me for some boots like the ones I was wearing," he said. "It was December, and she was cold and wearing sandals, which is very typical. Her name was Lamia, no last name. She's never been to school." Bradley said not being able to help her at that moment weighed on his mind for the rest of the trip. Once he returned home, he shared his experience to his wife, and how he promised to send Lamia a pair. Jan immediately went out and bought items to stuff four boxes to send back, including four pairs of boots, not knowing what size she wore. They mailed the boxes to the OSI agent with a request to find Lamia -- armed with only a picture and a personal note to her. "They found her and her uncle, brought them to the base with a local policeman, fed them and gave them the boxes," he said. In the letter he wrote "I was glad to meet you, Lamia, I hope these things help. I'm going to be back in a few months ... and I would love to see you again." On the subsequent trip, Lamia and her family were again brought to the base where her family was treated to a meal with Bradley at the dining facility, 15 boxes of supplies and a bicycle.
Bradley said he never forgot about his experience. Upon his retirement in 2008, he sat down with his wife regarding what they would do after the Air Force. Remembering the joy of dealing with Lamia and her family, the very short conversation turned into a small non-profit organization to build schools in Afghanistan - the Lamia Afghan Foundation. "She is our inspiration," he said. "We see Lamia every time we go. Her family is very poor and live in atypical Afghan mud house in a rural village with no running water, electricity, no glass in the windows, heat or bathroom in the house." The Bradleys go to Afghanistan twice a year and spend one month. The April 2013 delivery of humanitarian supplies marked their seventh trip and more than two million pounds of food, clothing, blankets, boots, shoes, school supplies, medical supplies and equipment for distribution around Kabul area schools, hospitals and refugee camps.
"The only way to combat extremism is to fight the desperation of illiteracy and poverty with education and economic opportunity," Jan said. "Military might cannot fix that."
The foundation he and Jan established also concentrates on the education of young Afghan girls, though they build schools for both genders. Working with the Afghan minister of education, they coordinate every trip and determine current needs and possible new school locations. They provide the teachers, books and curriculum, and the foundation provides the building, furniture and supplies. They are currently working on building their sixth school. "I believe education is the key to the future in Afghanistan," Bradley said. "I believe in educating boys as well. Boys have all the opportunity in the world in Afghanistan, and girls don't. "When you educate a boy," he said of his worldwide concept on education, "you educate a boy. When you educate a girl, you educate a family." He explained these girls will grow up to be wives and mothers who teach their boys how to treat women the right way. They will teach their girls the importance of education, so they can lean skill, get a job and help support their families.
"After we do this for a couple of generations, the culture over there might change some," he said. "It's gonna take a long while to change the culture. It's a sensitive subject to talk about changing cultures for people. They need to make some changes relative to women and women's rights. Education is what will make that happen."
One hundred percent of the foundation money goes to building schools and humanitarian aid, as the Bradleys support all of their own travel and living expenses from his own pocket. They said they feel this helps across the board for both the Afghan people and the United States by helping win hearts and minds of the Afghan people.
"It's a miniscule part of it, but we think what we do is important to our American national effort there," he said. "I think I owe something back. This nation has been very good to me. This Air Force has been very good to me. I've been blessed." To accomplish this, the Bradleys have become citizen experts on the Denton Program, a government program which allows private U.S. citizens and organizations to use space available on U.S. military cargo planes to transport humanitarian goods to countries in need.
"It is really difficult to get this stuff over there because it is a complicated process," he said. "It goes over on C-17s and it might get there in a couple of weeks or two to three months. It all depends on whether there is space available on the airplanes. It's been a great program for us and we've enjoyed doing it." According to the Denton Program office, the general said they have shipped more humanitarian aid than any other non-government entity in the country. Another trip is planned for the Bradleys in near future. They are working 12-hour days collecting items to fill cargo planes already in route. With two million pounds of humanitarian supplies and counting, it all started because a little Afghan girl wanted a pair of boots.


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Dress for Success Louisville is holding its annual "Suit and Salad" Luncheon, November 1, 2011 at The Galt House Hotel and Suites. This year's theme for the luncheon is 'Turning over a New Leaf', which honors thousands of women who as a result of the help from the programs, have themselves been able to turn over a new leaf.
Keynote speaker for the event will be fashion designer Alex Garfield. Alex is the owner of Peace of Cloth, an NYC based brand that has been working with Dress for Success for 10 years. Peace of Cloth is a perfect fit for the Dress for Success program. "What makes Peace of Cloth unique as a company is more than just how great we fit. After all, our customers expect a perfect fit. It's the love that comes with each and every article of clothing...the compassion and humility in every fiber of every garment."
Dress for Success Louisville Executive Director Betty J. Fox is looking forward to the expertise Mr. Garfield will provide for the event."We are thrilled that he is willing to come all this way to support the Louisville affiliate. "Fox says.
The highlight of the luncheon will, as always be the fashion show and this year is no exception. Models will be gracing the runway and showcasing the Peace of Cloth brand which is the inspiration for the show.
In addition to the Fashion Show and keynote speech, there will also be a silent auction and be addressed by Honorary Chair, Dr. Alex Gerassimides and Louisville native and Dress for Success Worldwide supporter, Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale.
Doors open for the Silent Auction at 11:15 am in The Galt House East, Ballroom B and C. Lunch will be served at noon and the event concludes at 1:30 pm.
For more information on the event, like Sponsorship opportunities and ticket availability, please call the Dress for Success Louisville office at (502)584-8050 or visit the organization's website at www.dressforsuccess.org/louisville.


text:
|The Window Film Company UK Ltd
Head Office - Unit 6 Anglo Business Park, Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 2QA
|Telephone 01494 794477 Email firstname.lastname@example.com
|London Office - 25 Britton Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 5TY
|Telephone 020 3326 1727 Email email@example.com
|Birmingham Office - Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham B24 9FE
|Telephone 0121 270 2250 Email email@example.com
|For supply and installation please visit www.windowfilm.co.uk
|For DIY installation please visit www.frostbrite.co.uk
|Please mention that you found us on the Window Film Directory web site
|Window Film Specialists Throughout the UK
|Contact your local expert via the WindowFilmDirectory Enquiry Service:
|Email your name, address and phone number, together with details
|of your enquiry to email@example.com
|For information on advertising on this site, click here
|Home | North London | South London | East London
|West London | Air Conditioning Directory | Advertise Here
|Window Film UK Directory, 16 Greencroft Close, Darlington, DL3 8HW, United Kingdom
|Telephone 01325 247101
|Web site development by CS Design Services of Darlington
|© Copyright 2020 CS Design Services. All rights reserved. Terms & Conditions


text:
Bemidji State University music students will perform for an opportunity to receive three $1,000 awards as part of the Department of Music's annual competition for its Ione L. DeKrey Memorial Music Scholarships, April 12.
The 28th annual competition celebrates the life of DeKrey, who graduated from BSU in 1975 at the age of 44. Ten student vocalists are competing for one of three scholarships from the endowment in her name, the Ione DeKrey Memorial Vocal Music Scholarship. The competition is open to vocal music majors who have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or a music GPA of 3.25 or higher.
The competition, which is open to the public free of charge, begins at 3 p.m. April 12 in the Thompson Recital Hall of BSU's Bangsberg Fine Arts Complex. A wide variety of musical styles will be featured, including arias, arts songs and musical theater selections. A reception will follow the concert.
In addition to the students participating in the scholarship competition, the concert will feature performances from past winners Callie Dunbar, a junior majoring in music and social work from Little Canada, Minn.; Anna DeJong, a senior in music education and music from Coon Rapids, Minn.; Margaret Ragan, a senior in music education from Ortonville, Minn.; Luke Barnard, a sophomore music major from Le Seuer, Minn.; and Lorrisa Craigmile, a senior in music education from Thief River Falls, Minn.
"Having this competition is a great addition to our program, and we are extremely blessed to have the love and support of the DeKrey family." said Dr. Cory Renbarger, assistant professor of music. "The scholarship helps support our students financially, and the contest offers a great boost to morale. Our students not only get the opportunity to compete in a high-stakes competition, but also can support and learn from each other's hard work on stage."
About Ione DeKrey
Ione DeKrey, who graduated from Bemidji State in 1975 at the age of 44, was a well-known vocalist in the Bemidji area as a member of the Sweet Adeline's and the popular Bemidji quartet "Two Chimes Two." She also sang with the First Lutheran Church Choir.
The DeKrey Scholarship was established by DeKrey's family – her husband, Dr. Donald DeKrey, and their four children, Steve DeKrey, Betsey Tower, Dr. Dan DeKrey and Nancy Glenn. The family started the event by pooling memorial money following Ione's death. For the DeKreys, the scholarship competition has become an important living memorial and a way to give students an opportunity to perform in a competitive situation. Family members attend the competition and assist with judging along with a panel of Bemidji State music faculty.
Since its inception in 1986, the DeKrey Award has supported 60 young vocalists with nearly $40,000 in scholarships. The competition was expanded in 2008, awarding scholarships to three winners each year.
Persons interested in contributing to the BSU scholarship programs may contact the BSU Foundation at (218) 755-2762.
• Dr. Cory Renbarger, assistant professor of music; (218) 755-2867
DeKrey Vocal Music Scholarship competitors
Bemidji | 56601 | Miranda Carlson, sophomore, music education; soprano
Bemidji | 56601 | Tia Ellies, senior, music education; soprano
Bemidji | 56601 | Joshua Michael Sorenson, freshman, music education; tenor
Lester Prairie | 55354 | Gwendolyn Pelzel, senior, music; soprano
Redwood Falls | 56283 | Derek Bebeau, freshman, music education;baritone
Slayton | 56172 | Molly Bass, junior, music education & music; mezzo-soprano
Staples | 56479 | Lynnea Iverson, junior, music education; mezzo-soprano
Thief River Falls | 56701 | Leandra Craigmile, sophomore, music education; mezzo-soprano
Bedford | 76021 | Caitlin Rogers, senior, music; mezzo-soprano
Chippewa Falls | 54729 | Kyle Baldeshwiler, freshman, music education; baritone


text:
Every day businesses and individuals promote themselves on social media sites, varying from Facebook to Twitter, Blogger, MySpace, Pinterest, LinkedIn, websites, etc.
Social Media can be a double-edged sword, doing both harm and good at the same time. When we make minor errors, like spelling a word incorrectly, it can change someone's view about us or our business very quickly.
Other issues frequently come to the surface. Having too many e-mails, for example, can make it difficult for someone to reach us.
Social Media should be fairly simple. It's not too complicated to connect the varying sites so that they post to one another. Just go to Google Search and many different ways to connect are open to you.
The Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce has the following Social Media sites:
Official Website
Social Media is not the full extent that needs to be considered. Communication is key to any successful endeavor.
The Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce has a very quick response time. It takes us 24-48 hours to respond to all calls and e-mails.
We also send out our newsletters, filled with information, once to twice a month depending on how many events we attend in a given month.
Lastly, we are out in the community, talking to residents and business owners frequently so that we have a keen insight to the ongoing activities of the community at large.
It takes a lot to successfully speak to another person. One has to think carefully to not insult them by using body language that is inappropriate. Poor wording choices can also harm a conversation.
I find it best to study someone you are about to approach and begin with mundane topics. If someone is staring at a balloon, ask them about the balloon. Conversations can build quickly and become fun and witty exchanges if the approach is right.
Without Social Media and Communication skills, it's difficult to approach people, and to approach them in ways that will be well-received. Pay attention to the actions you exhibit and focus on topics that keep the listener enthralled.
image received from www.mbaonline.com


text:
Rhe usual excellence from you John R. Most rewarding!
The East Lyn, Devon
I was able to go back to the Badlands, really a small area North of Toronto that looks somewhat like Badlands. My tripod did some creeping and some images were soft, so I got a little creative. The biggest problem is trying to avoid footprints!!JMR (John R)
we stopped there thirty years ago to get our bearings and consult our map, and the guard instantly upped the piece. We waved and drove off rapidly.Rob C
Good thing he didn't know where to find the trigger.