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As I said in my first post, I was recently diagnosed with anxiety and panic disorder. What this basically means is that I was constantly living in fear of what was going to happen to me in the future. Constantly.
Most of my thoughts were negative. There was no way I was good enough to keep the job I enjoy, there was no way I was lucky enough to have the partner I now have. People definitely thought badly of me, and I was always a disappointment. There was certainly no way that I was lucky enough to be happy; something bad was definitely about to happen, and I wasn't prepared for it. So obviously the most logical thing to do was to lie awake all night, every night, planning for what I would do should something terrible happen in six months time.
I was exhausted. Cue winter months, dark mornings and dark nights – it was a recipe for disaster. Everything was going wrong.
After a bout of panic attacks, usually associated with travel, illness or self doubt, I finally found the courage to talk about it. I went to the doctor; a tired, matted mess; and told him exactly what I was feeling, snot and all. It was the scariest and most liberating thing I've ever done. I was signed off work, given some medication to try (on my request), and referred for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I went home and slept.
I started CBT in January and was incredibly anxious about it (obviously). My goals set at the beginning of my sessions were centred around worry, and how to control it. I was skeptical. Surely this was just what I was like? Wrong!
The fears I hold are connected to a thinking or belief process which I have adopted after certain events in my life. I can easily pin point them with a little prodding, and it's getting to the bottom of these which is the key to overcoming the disorder. That, and a complete change in my outlook on life.
Below are some of the methods which I found most useful at the beginning of therapy:
Defusing involves seeing thoughts and feelings for what they are (streams of words, passing sensations), not what they say they are (dangers or facts).
STOP, STEP BACK and OBSERVE the thoughts and feelings:
- Notice what's happening – your thoughts, physical sensations, emotions, images, memories.
- Notice the way you're interpreting what they mean, and how that's affecting you.
- Notice the unhelpful thoughts. What am I reacting to? Perhaps say the thoughts very slowly, or very quickly, or write them down. I started a journal at the beginning of CBT, and found it incredibly useful to get the thoughts out onto paper or into my phone which made them easier to deal with and label.
More here.
Identify the emotion you're feeling, and label the unhelpful thoughts. In my case, unhelpful thinking habits are the majority of reasons I become anxious: mind-reading (believing we know what others are thinking) and catastrophising (imagining the worst) are my constant barriers.
Check these out for some really good tips on unhelpful thinking habits.
Use metaphors to see your mind and thoughts differently.
The Playground Bully (our thoughts can be our own internal bully):
- Victim 1 – believes the bully, distressed, reacts automatically (bully carries on)
- Victim 2 – challenges the bully (bully eventually gives up)
- Victim 3 – acknowledges then ignores the bully, changing focus of attention.
My biggest achievement was practicing mindfulness every morning when I got up. It helps me to identify when I am in the present moment, or if I am living anxiously in the future. Eventually, you will find living in the present a much happier place to be! If you are just starting out, try Headspace for 10 minute daily guided sessions, or log into www.freemindfulness.org.
The "Me" List:
Make a list of things you enjoy doing for yourself. Things that make you happy, things that nourish you and make you feel like you again. When you have a bad day, pick one thing on the list and do it! I found a mix of small and big activities worked best, that way I could do something no matter what time of day it was. I doodled mine for an extra mindful activity:
These are just some ideas to begin with, and I will look deeper into some other methods which have worked for me throughout my therapy. I'd like to thank the NHS Living Life service and www.getselfhelp.co.uk for providing me with these fantastic new techniques. Some further information on CBT can be found here. If you would like to ask me about my experience with CBT, I'd be happy to talk about it.
Spending a day thinking about what could, should, might have been (past) or what may, perhaps, might happen (future) is a day missed. – Headspace


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I usually hold out until after Thanksgiving to let myself get excited about Christmas but whom am I kidding, I've been secretly listening to Christmas music (pop and otherwise) for about a week and a half now. And I know I'm not alone, because they were playing it ON THE RADIO (!!) in the car on the way to Newport this past weekend. Anyway, my point is, let's not hold back because nobody else is; especially One Kings Lane. They KNOW that we need the holiday spirit; Christmas, Hanukkah and other holidays right away. We need to shop and feel warm and great--right now! If you're not a member, it's easy and SO worth it. Sign up through me HERE!
One Kings Lane is having a Holiday store event and I'm going all out. I love Christmas, and Thanksgiving, and holiday/family spirit! I also love tasteful decor and appropriately themed tablescapes and you'll find all the accoutrements for that HERE.
I love nice stationary--seriously, there is nothing better, but what really gets me is the inside. If the envelope is lined with some beautiful unique paper, I'm in. I'll take 20 of those please...HERE. Also, I love getting letters--who doesn't?
Or these holiday party invitations. I might just throw a party so that I can buy these cards...is that okay? I love the one on the left--chevron pattern! Or the quatrefoil on the right...eesh hard decision!
These highball glasses aren't anything I would go for normally but they are SO perfect for Thanksgiving cocktails, don't you think? Red and gold--so pretty!
This year my older sister is hosting us all in Chicago for Thanksgiving (SO proud of her!) and I know she has some really great Thanksgiving and Christmas serving ware but maybe she needs some new fun things! If you like anything fun, or holiday inspired then you'll LOVE the One Kings Lane Holiday section--they even show inspirational pictures. Check them out HERE. Also, OKL isn't paying me or giving me anything--I'm just a fan. A super-fan.
Alicia B.

subset: commoncrawl


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Since 1987, Designer Kitchens & Beyond (DKB) has been remodeling and constructing custom spaces and homes for residents throughout Corona del Mar at competitive prices. From room additions to custom-built homes, our team of architects, artisans, builders, and interior designers is guided by two main priorities: to stay true to the visions of our Corona del Mar clients and to deliver immaculate results when we bring those visions to reality.
The remodeling and new construction experts at DKB are led by founder and architect Tony Talisse, whose commitment to beautiful and functional design and impeccable craftsmanship has made DKB a well-respected leader amongst its Southern California peers. As a service-oriented company serving the Corona del Mar area, we aim to meet and exceed our customers' expectations. We provide ongoing updates on your project; take care of all necessary permits and licenses; treat you and your home with respect; and provide two-year warranties on all our work.
At DKB, we apply artistry, quality workmanship, and years of knowledge and expertise to build and remodel elegant, long-lasting rooms and homes in Corona del Mar. We work with most budgets and provide free estimates. Call today to learn more.
Interior Remodeling in Corona del Mar, California
With more than 40 years of interior remodeling experience amongst the team at DKB, we will improve your existing kitchen, bathroom, or family room so that it accurately recreates the room you envision. From project conception to completion, we take care of everything–detailed estimates, architectural designs and mock-ups, permits and licenses, carpentry, painting, plumbing, electrical, countertops, and installation. Additionally, to allow you to continue to use your Corona del Mar home during construction, we keep dust to a minimum, use protective covers and booties, and work within a set schedule.
Exterior Additions in Corona del Mar, California
Designing and building exquisite exterior spaces is our passion and expertise. We have been providing room addition services for over 25 years, and provide competitively priced, comprehensive services when you wish to add a bedroom, family room, garage, storage space, or second floor to your Corona del Mar home. No matter how intricate or challenging your vision, Talisse and his team of designers, artisans, craftsmen, builders, and interior designers can make it happen–on time and within budget.
New Construction in Corona del Mar, California
DKB provides construction expertise for the creation of gorgeous new homes in Corona del Mar. We use creative thinking with our experience and knowledge to translate your dream into a reality that fits your budget. Founder Tony Talisse's background in architectural design and his ability to coordinate the efforts of a diverse staff, facilitates the building of better homes. From foundation to ceiling, we apply the highest of standards in our workmanship and the materials we use. Talk to one of our project managers today for a free estimate.
Immaculately Built Homes in Corona del Mar, California
Let Designer Kitchens & Beyond design and custom build your kitchen, bathroom, living room, room additions or home in Corona del Mar, and you will end up with a living space that is beyond your expectations. Every project is brought to life with an attention to detail and your personal style, so that your remodeled or newly constructed room or house will instantly feel like home.
Since 1987, DKB has provided comprehensive construction and remodeling services using European craftsmanship, high quality materials, trusted brands, and a customer-focused mentality to Corona del Mar residents. See what incredible improvements we can accomplish within your budget; call today for a free estimate.
Area Code (714, 949)
Tony Talisse is hands down the best contractor I have worked with. His passion, resourcefulness, and knowledge are the prefect combination for creating a beautiful home. He is fast and efficient. When Tony makes a promise you can trust . . .


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It's been a while since I've done one of these. It was practically a staple on my old blog that I'd highlight some stupid thing that Papa Johns had on their website. I'm glad to see they are keeping up the fine tradition of not putting any thought into what they're doing.
Papa Johns: Still Can't Figure it Out
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Anyone familiar with jazz will recognize the song title. The song speaks of a change in relationship. Interestingly, that's what we celebrate every December 25th. Just 2,008 years ago, God did exactly that -- put into effect the beginning of a change in relationship. In reality the change was prehistoric, when God first made the decision. But the operational functioning of that decision began with the birth of Christ. And every year, our hearts, minds & spirits jump for joy, have a spiritual party, are elated, shout for joy, & all the other good things that celebrate the fact that God gave us the one solution to our one true problem. For, truly, we have no way to save ourselves from ourselves. But He gave us of Himself to save us! So, as we meditate on what He's done for us, today, let's also think of those around us. Many don't yet know that there's more than the emotional & spiritual morass they're engulfed in. But we can tell them. And, even more, we can guide them out of it. Because, where they recognize the problem, we know the solution. Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
What a Difference a Day Makes!
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First of all, HAPPY THANKSGIVING! (To those of you that celebrate!)
Anyway, I always love receiving a package in the mail! (Who doesn't, really?!) So when I arrived home from visiting Jenna in Portland, I was excited to find I had FOUR waiting for me!
One was some makeup from Japan, one was my first order from Chicwish, and the others were packages from ShopLately.com, and from Romwe.com!
I am OBSESSED with this snake necklace from my lovely friends at Shop Lately! I can't wait to coordinate it into a cool outfit! Maybe something darker?
This skirt & oversized sweater set are from my lovely friends at Romwe!
I'm really excited to wear it in the fall, it looks so warm, doesn't it?
This double vest 3-way set is one of the items I purchased from Chicwish! I love how versatile it is. I can wear just the lace piece, just the denim piece, or both together! (Personally, I like them together the best!)
I really like these lace shorts. They're a bit late for summer, but I'm confident I can coordinate them nicely into an outfit.
I am SO happy about this petti! I have been wanting a similar one for some time now, so now I can check it off my list!
It's such a lovely dusty rose colour. And I must note the cute sparkly rhinestone embellishments along the bottom!!
Shop Lately Snake necklace- http://shoplately.com/?r=shop
Romwe sweater & skirt set- http://www.romwe.com/
Chicwish "Lace Jeans 3-Ways Twinset Vest"- http://www.chicwish.com/lace-twinset-vest.html
Chicwish "Once Upon a Time Lace Pants"- http://www.chicwish.com/once-upon-a-time-lace-pants.html
Chicwish "Peach My Heart Petticoat"- http://www.chicwish.com/peach-my-heart-petticoat.html


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My son, Tim, has just found out that he is related to another Crossway author that he has heard about – even recommended her books – but has never met.
What? How can that be?
Let's go back….
In writing my posts on Entering The Church, I thought more about my early days in the faith than I had for some time. As you may know, John was the one who sought me out and first presented the Gospel to me. But, as a brand-new convert himself, he quickly felt in over his head, so took me to visit Pentecostal friends who could explain the Gospel more clearly.
I have told you of Bernice, a young woman my age, who answered the door, then sat and just listened to me as I poured out my sorrow, desolation, and hatred of myself and life in general. Her fiance, Steve, then entered the room and began to systematically present the Gospel to me. Bernice had won my heart. He now won my mind and soul as he agreed with me that my evil, my sin, were real and a tremendous problem, objectively, to God.
I knew immediately that this was Truth, that this man was therefore speaking Truth generally. and I fell like a ripe little plum into his hands. Rather, into God's hands. And was soundly converted.
Well, I was sitting at my computer a couple of days ago, and they popped into my mind. I did what we all do these days, and googled their names: Steve and Bernice Ditchfield. As the surname, especially, is unusual, I got an immediate hit for……a family singing group!
Could it be? I went to their webpage: http://www.ditchfieldfamilysingers.com and carefully perused it…Yes, without a doubt. It is them. As you know, although I can't sing, I do love voice and listen to much choral music. So, my standards for vocal performance are relatively high. To be honest, I went into their clips on both the website and youtube with trepidation, but…they are good! Very good! Wonderful harmony. And almost all acapella.
Once I was sure of who they were, I contacted Bernice through their website and she responded immediately. She gave me a brief synopsis of their life to date, and outlined the status of each of their six children. I forwarded this to my own children, knowing they would be interested. That is when Tim picked up on the fact that their oldest daughter, Christin Ditchfield, also has published with Crossway, and that he has recommended one or two of her books.
So, to go back to the beginning of my post, doesn't that mean they are related? Tim's spiritual grandfather is Christin's physical – and probably spiritual – father. And, of course, we are all family in Christ anyway!
Christin contacted Tim and told them that all her life she has heard the story of a lost girl being instantaneously transformed by the power of the Gospel. Tim told her he has always heard of a loving couple that didn't minimize sin and thus won his mother's confidence, and soul.
Forty year-one years later there are ten young adults who have grown up to serve the Lord in their generation. And they now know of one another.
Isn't that beautiful?


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The spring is here, I feel it in the air. This weekend was a first time I went outside without a coat, couldn't really believe it at the moment.
As it gets warmer, my heart longs for some color. I'm tired of all this black.
Especially orange, it can make me happy just by looking at it.
Here're a few of my favorite looks from the Prada and Cacharel spring shows!
+ How fun is this Jil Sander plastic bag?!
I picked up my first bright orange accessory this weekend, it's a faux fur fox tail from H&M.
A real head turner, I must say. Pictures coming soon!


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"The Wackness" star Josh Peck tells Film School Rejects that he's involved in a new project called "Hearts of Men" in which Tupac's music is used as a framing device for the film.
"it's a movie I read a year ago and fell in love with about three cats – one's a white boy… , one's a black gang member, one's a latino. They all witness the latino's brother's murder… The thing that draws them together is that they are all in love with Tupac and his music."
Further information about the project is not at hand. Peck will next be seen in the comedy "What's Up".


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Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: email@example.com
Scott Walker, Governor
Reginald J. Newson, Secretary
Wednesday, July 31, 2014
CONTACT: DWD Communications, 608-266-2722
On the Web: http://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dwd/news.htm
On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WIWorkforce
On Twitter: @WIWorkforce
Secretary Newson Visits Schneider, Highlights Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant to Help Trucking Industry Leader Train 100 New Drivers
Urges other employers to apply for $8 million available under new round of WFF awards
GREEN BAY – During a visit to Schneider today, Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Reggie Newson said Governor Walker's Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) initiative is providing the trucking industry leader a grant of $28,150 to help train 100 new hires as drivers, and he urged other employers to apply for a new third round of grants.
"Wisconsin is a leading manufacturing state known around the world for quality goods produced by skilled workers, and it takes a skilled, talented logistical team to deliver the goods," Secretary Newson said. "Schneider, a great Wisconsin company, has long been a national leader in the trucking industry, and we are pleased to award them a Wisconsin Fast Forward grant, help them hire and train new drivers, and keep Wisconsin's economy moving forward."
Secretary Newson met with Paul Kardish, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, and other members of the Schneider team and took a brief tour of the driver training area.
"Because of Schneider's strong alliance with the Department of Workforce Development, we are excited about putting Wisconsin residents back to work through the Department's Fast Forward training grant," Executive Vice President Kardish said. "The Wisconsin Fast Forward training grant provides great support to Schneider's Highway Ready for Wisconsin Program and provides an opportunity for individuals to receive excellent training in order to have safe, successful driving careers."
While visiting Schneider, Secretary Newson also urged other employers and potential partners in training projects to submit proposals for a recently announced third round of Wisconsin Fast Forward grants.
"As announced just this week, Wisconsin Fast Forward is moving into high gear with this new round of grants," Secretary Newson said. "We intend to award $8 million for customized worker training, exceeding what we've awarded thus far, under Governor Walker's innovative, state-funded worker training program."
Based on a comprehensive analysis of pressing workforce needs, the DWD Office of Skills Development (OSD) set the following categories, each with separate 2014 application deadlines and a range of possible grant awards:
- September 23: Manufacturing Occupations, $5,000 to $400,000
- September 30: Construction Trades and Related Occupations and Transportation, Logistics and Distribution Occupations, $5,000 to $400,000
- October 7: Financial Services Occupations and Information Technology Occupations, $5,000 to $400,000
- October 14: Customer Service Occupations, $5,000 to $400,000
- October 21: Agriculture and Related Occupations and Health Care and Related Occupations, $5,000 to $400,000; and small businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees, $5,000 to $50,000
Early last year, Governor Walker proposed the WFF initiative, which lawmakers quickly approved with overwhelming bipartisan support. WFF encourages partnerships between employers and workforce and economic development organizations.
WFF targets funding to meet pressing needs for skilled workers and it includes accountability measures to ensure the state funds are well spent. The Department of Workforce Development's Office of Skills Development administers the program and monitors funded projects to ensure that unemployed trainees are hired and incumbent trainees receive a pay increase.
For additional third round details, visit: http://wisconsinfastforward.com/announcements.htm


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Benefits to Providers
- Increased visibility for Providers. The providers' profile is an opportunity for providers to show case their skills and experience
- Identify eligible Providers to participate in preference and reservation schemes
- Instant on-line access to all bid opportunities in Government for all registered providers
- Avail e-mail and SMS- alert service for Providers
- Communicate with PDEs and other providers online.
Benefits to PDEs
- Reliable source of information on Providers for PDEs
- Offer a more transparent and reliable Providers' data bank to PDEs
- Provide PDEs with a record of current and past contract performance of the Providers
- Expedite short listing for routine procurement
- Conveniently publish procurement notices
- Communicate with Providers and other PDEs cost effectively.


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Moments In Time: Greatest Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are different from, say, the Mariners, Supersonics, Trail Blazers and Canucks in that they're a Northwest sports franchise with fewer true superstars in their history.
But the Seahawks have still had plenty of awesome players.
Hall-of-Famers Warren Moon, Jerry Rice and John Randle didn't play enough in Seattle to make this list.
Here are my top five players Of all time.
1. Steve Largent
I doubt there will be much of an argument here. When Largent retired, he was the NFL's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches.
He's a Hall-of-Famer. He was pure class, a consistent as players come and is without a doubt Seattle's greatest NFLer of all time.
2. Walter Jones
Big Walt (Follow him on twitter here) is a GOD amongst men as far as O-Lineman go! The success of No. 4 and No. 5 on this list wouldn't have been possible without the nine-time Pro Bowl tackle Jones protecting them. Dude used to PUSH Escalade's in the off-season to warm up for a training camp he never went to, AND still got the job done.
Who can forget the block in the 2005 NFC title game where he took a Panthers defender and pushed him around for 20 yards down the field?! (Scroll Down)
1st ballot HALL OF FAMER! GUARANTEED!
3. Cortez Kennedy
He didn't get massive fanfare playing out in the Pacific Northwest but Kennedy was a force at defensive tackle, making eight Pro Bowls and winning the Defensive Player of the Year in 1992 on a really really bad team.
4. Shaun Alexander
Too high? Maybe. But anyone who feels that way is probably just sore at Alexander because his career ended so poorly when he made so much money.
Bitter farewell aside, Alexander was one of the most dominant players of his era, winning the 2005 MVP and setting a league record at the time with 28 touchdowns.
He holds the Seahawks' all-time records for rushing yards and touchdowns.
5. Matt Hasselbeck
Some Seahawks fans may prefer quarterbacks Jim Zorn or Dave Krieg, not to mention fullback Mack Strong, for the No. 5 slot. But Hasselbeck is the team's all-time leader in passing yards, passer rating, completions and completion percentage.
He helmed the controls of the best Seattle Seahawks teams ever.
Honorable Mention to the above mentioned Hawks, this is after all only a TOP 5.
"Keep Your Eye On #71 Left Tackle Walter Jones Pushing His Man To The Goalline!!!!" YAAAAAAAAAA BABY!!!!!
Possibly the best block in future HOFer Walter Jones' incredible career.


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Dinosaur Hunter
Played 6427 times
Dinosaur Hunter game information:
Jump in your jeep and load up all the dinosaur eggs! Once loaded race your way to the end of each level, shooting dinosaurs who oppose you and making sure you don't lose any of your cargo! Unload your cargo at the end of each level to earn points!
How to play:
Arrow Keys
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"The ring's powers may have been compromised when Naamah accosted her." (from WIP)
I get the complaint from my husband that I use big words he just doesn't know the meaning of, and he'll skip over them. I just thought it was him. But I came across something in one of my reviews on my first Sabrina Strong series book Vampire Ascending, that I over-used the thesaurus, and they complained about authors who do this where they have to stop and look up words (I did get a 4-star review from her, despite her other complaints about it). Maybe I'm trying too hard to impress? I don't know.
If I'm doing dialogue I want my characters to sound natural. Some characters (vampires), are from another time all together. Like Nicolas, who is from the 16th century and from time to time uses out-dated words.
Truly, I had no idea that my vocabulary was such that others placed me in a category with authors I've grown to enjoy. You see, I've had the same complaint about certain authors myself. I remember reading Anne Rice's "Interview with the Vampire", and I would high-light some of those highfaluin words, and used them myself. I don't think learning new words should be viewed as such a bad thing. I understand someone not wanting to stop reading to look up a word. But you know, you might want to know that word just in case someone else uses it in another book, you think?
The following is an excerpt from chapter four of Vampire Ascending. I hope you don't need a dictionary to help you along, but if you do, complain directly to me through the usual means (in comments,my gmail or facebook). (You may find a little of the influence from Anne Rice from this and other sections of my book. One other reviewer stated my writing "...delves into the gritty, violent, dark and sexual world of Anne Rice's vampires..." ~ Tony Martin, Northern Star 2011--I was so thrilled by his review!).
Before I could say something inarticulate, the waitress was back to take our order, and to give me one of her best acid looks, as though she hated my guts. I really didn't know why. Did she think I was his date?
Dismissing this little distraction, I went with the lobster, ordered the salad with French dressing, and rice, not potatoes. The waitress made a wine suggestion. Something from Napa Valley, and something I couldn't pronounce—even after she'd said it. Because she was being so snotty, I went with the opposite. I chose a slightly sweet champagne, (it had said "slightly sweet" on the wine menu). I'd learned from Jeanie, when you're with someone who tells you the sky's the limit, you go for the most expensive food and drink, and eat like you'll never eat again. I waited to see what Nicolas would order—or rather how.
The waitress turned to Nicolas. "And you, Nicolas?"
"I'll have the Real Red," he said smoothly, as though he were ordering the best wine in the house.
I watched the waitress's expression. Smiling tightly, red lips curved up at the ends, she said, "Of course, whatever you wish, Nicolas." She paused. Nicolas looked up at her.
"What is it?"
She cast me a strangely nervous look, and then flicked her gaze back on him. "Later tonight? You're place?"
"Eh . . ." Nicolas cut his eyes to me. "Not tonight. I'm . . . working."
In a huff, she snapped up my menu and darted away. So quickly, in fact, I think she merely vanished.
"Is she your girlfriend, or something?"
"No." He said forcefully.
"Really? I mean she really looked angry at you, and jealous of me."
Nicolas' eyes had a strange cast to them. His gaze broke away from me for a second looking past me, then it slid back onto my face.
"Other than my needs, she holds no interest for me." His fingers drummed absently on the table.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to pry," I said, fingering the cutlery, and pulling it out of the napkin ring.
"She is a human donor. On occasion," he added, looking distractedly at his cell phone readout.
"Yours, though?" I don't know why I cared.
"Eh . . . yes. One of my regular donors." He breathed wearily. "She, like all of them, becomes slightly jealous of one another, or any other human who happens to be within my reach. It's so ridiculous, these human emotions."
"But I'm not a donor. Right?" I paused just long enough to straighten the flat wear on my black linen napkin. "I don't want to donate my blood to you, or any of the others."
"Never fear, Sabrina. You are a super-sensitive. You are not on the same level as a donor, or any of the other humans who work for us. You are more special."
"Special. Because I'm a super-sensitive?"
"That, yes. But also because, you are my ward."
"Ward?" I repeated. "What does that mean?"
"You are my responsibility while you are here, in Tremayne Towers. Plus, you live under my jurisdiction," he explained patiently. "I oversee a one hundred mile radius. You are inside that area. Therefore you are my ward." He paused. "It is difficult for you to understand as you do not know our world, our codes, and laws—yet. You do not know our ways. Because of that I must advise you in everything you do while you are with me, or among others like myself. You must do as I say, or—"
"Or?" I became wary now. I wasn't especially crazy about what he'd just told me, as if I now belonged to him, or something so eighteenth-century. My great-great grandmother had been an indentured servant. That's about what this felt like. I worked for them, therefore they owned me.
"You are my responsibility, Sabrina. Whenever you are at Tremayne Towers, or on an assignment, you will have to remember our rules do apply to you as well, and your being here requires the utmost caution. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes. Crystal." I was so not liking this situation. "Am I in danger, I mean, if I wander off without you? Not that I would, but just in case there's a fire or something, I have to be prepared."
"There are certain things that will help keep you from becoming an unwilling victim."
"Okay," I said hesitantly, leaning forward to listen on his every word.
"Never walk in front of a vampire."
"Why?" I had walked in front of him when we came inside this restaurant tonight.
"The vampire will automatically become the pursuer. The fact that you walk in front of us can trigger the hunger centers. You must think of yourself as prey, and we the carnivore, if that helps."
My skin suddenly crawled. I had figured there would be some perils in working for vampires. But this was very scary.
"So, what you're saying is the vampire behind me will want my blood?"
"That, yes, or—" he paused, eyes slipping shut briefly, then he blinked those obsidian pools open. His voice going lower in a seductive whisper, he said, "Our sexual cravings are equal. In fact they are dual needs for us. Any vampire who believes you may welcome his advances will pursue you. We are ruled by powerful primeval forces that cannot be ignored, or denied. Once we are locked into this roll of pursuer, we cannot easily be stopped."
"You mean that I could be raped, or my blood taken against my will?"
"Believe me, Sabrina," he purred low, his voice intoxicating, "it would take so little effort to make you think you wished to be bitten. Once bitten, your pleasure centers couldn't refuse more. Our pheromones are designed to set your human desires on fire and, and depending upon the vampire, on how well he can control it, he can make you become fatigued, listless, so that he can advance on you at his leisure. Or for some vampires, simply with a look can make you feel as though he had just made love to you without ever having touched you at all."
I had lost the grip on my serrated knife and it clunked to the table making the exclamation point of my evening. I stared at him. His explanation gripped me like a cold hand around the neck.
"Another thing you must remember—and this is very important—do not look directly into our eyes. Eye contact makes you very vulnerable. It also is an invitation by you to be enthralled."
Realizing I was staring right into his eyes, I dropped my gaze. This wasn't going to be easy. "Okay. No eye contact and I'll follow you from now on." I flicked my eyes up. I realized his gaze had a rapacity of its own.
"You will be introduced to the others, in good time. My—eh—scent will be on you, and the others will know you are my human."
"Hang on," I said. "What makes you think I'll even take this job? Just my walking into this building sounds dangerous."
"It pays fifty thousand a year. Plus bonuses. Much like the one I've just given you?" he reminded.
I nearly choked. "That's an offer I can hardly refuse," I muttered. I spied the bonus check still on the table. I stuffed it into my purse.
"Exactly." He smiled.
The waitress slithered back, ladened down with our food—well, mine, anyway. She delicately placed Nicolas' goblet down on a round, lacy paper doily. The goblet was dark glass—better not to see what was in it. "Your Real Red, Nicholas," she said sweetly, almost as if she'd opened her own vein to fill it. She came around to me and served up my salad and lobster and all the trimmings, along with the champagne, and left us alone. It was a good thing I wasn't in charge of tipping her.
Starved, I began eating, while Nicolas sampled his drink, and set it down, his hand draped over the rim while it resided on the table. This would take a little getting used to, knowing I was having dinner with a vampire. Out of all my daydreams about someday meeting a vampire, I had never once envisioned this. ~© 2010 Lorelei Bell


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Just some of the things that kept me going this week.
I Ate a lot of meat and fish, aimed for 4-6oz of protein at each meal.
Breakfast was fish or eggs.
I made a cheese and vegetable frittata which froze well and took that to work alternate days with salad for lunch.
My evening meal consisted of roasted or grilled meat or fish with veg.
I had an Atkins bar mid morning and Chocolate shake before bed
I drank more than enough water, decaf herbals and decaf coffee through the day and spent most nights on the loo, which is a good thing as I am notoriously bad at drinking enough!
So… lets have a look
Next week will be difficult as I am away on business for 3 days, but will work with this as the results are looking good
Mitzi 🙂 x x


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Banknotes and Paper Ephemera
British, Cheque, Durham, £3.3.6d, 1837
Item Reference: EG39960
Price £315
Spend £100 to get free shipping in the UK
Great Britain, Durham, West Lodge, Darlington, Jonathan Backhouse & Company (Bankers) Cheque for £3.3.6d (three pounds, three shillings and sixpence), dated 20th January 1837, payable to "William Russell", drawn and signed by James Backhouse who died a few months later, St Cuthbert's Church to left, engraved by W. H. Lizars of Edinburgh. Ex Alistair Gibb collection.
Ex Brian Kemp collection.
Slight mount damage on the back, good very fine, one of the last cheques issued by James Backhouse, important and very rare.


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"Goobuntu" can be loosely translated as "I am what I am because of what Google will be". The word derives from a bunch of speculative articles in the press that appeared after some Google employee mumbled something about Google using their own distribution of Ubuntu internally. Though Google has stated that this is an internal-only distribution that is only useful to their employees, many speculate that Google will publically release an OS that will forever free the computing world from the reigns of Microsoft, thereby curing world hunger and creating eternal peace and prosperity (ostensibly while also indexing all of your documents on the Internet and sending logs of your activity to the Googleplex in order to create better contextual relevance and monetization). The concept of "Goobuntu" is closely related to:
"Messianic Googlism" – the belief that Google will bring salvation to the world. Some believe that Google is God's search engine and the source of his omniscience.
"Googoogooglism" – the belief that anything that comes out of Google, however mundane, is fantastic and world-changing. Case in point, Google Ctemplate is believed by some to have the potential to "change the internets" [sic]


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AfDB President Says all Africans Should Share in Benefits of Economic Growth
The dichotomy between statistics on Africa´s economic growth and realities on the ground emerged as a key talking point in discussions ahead of the 2011 Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, whose central theme is: "Toward an Agenda for Inclusive Growth in Africa".
"Africans are no longer interested in impressive statistics that do not reflect realities on the ground," AfDB President, Donald Kaberuka, said at a breakfast meeting with the media covering the meetings in Lisbon, Portugal.
Mr. Kaberuka said that recent events in Tunisia, Egypt and other North Africa countries were clear indications that economic growth had to be shared and inclusive to be meaningful.
The Bank recently published an annual report for North Africa which highlights the importance of inclusive growth following recent political changes in the region. Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Algeria are among the largest beneficiaries of AfDB funding.
The report addresses issues that drove a wave of political reform in the region namely, very high youth unemployment, entrenched poverty levels, income distribution disparity within countries, and challenges related to voice, accountability and transparency.
"These dimensions of social and economic inclusion are all part of North Africa's unfinished agenda, the overriding theme of this year's Annual Report for North Africa," the report says.
The Bank´s operations, such as emergency relief for South Sudan, the Libyan situation, environment and climate change, and the troubles in Cote d'Ivoire were among other key issues the talked about at the breakfast, which provided a platform for informal interaction between AfDB senior management and the media.


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BMC Systems Biology is an open access journal publishing original peer-reviewed research articles in experimental and theoretical aspects of the function of biological systems at the molecular, cellular or organismal level, in particular those addressing the engineering of biological systems, network modelling, quantitative analyses, integration of different levels of information and synthetic biology.
BMC Systems Biology is part of the BMC series which publishes subject-specific journals focused on the needs of individual research communities across all areas of biology and medicine. We do not make editorial decisions on the basis of the interest of a study or its likely impact. Studies must be scientifically valid; for research articles this includes a scientifically sound research question, the use of suitable methods and analysis, and following community-agreed standards relevant to the research field.
Specific criteria for other article types can be found in the submission guidelines.
BMC series - open, inclusive and trusted.
Related subjects » Computational Science & Engineering - Information Systems and Applications - Mathematical and Computational Biology - Systems Biology and Bioinformatics
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text:
Poulson v. Trans Union, LLC, 370 F. Supp. 2d 592 (E.D. Tex. 2005)
Judge: Leonard Davis
Division: Marshall
Holding: Defendant's partial motion to dismiss GRANTED.
This is a Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) case, (15 U.S.C.S. § 1681) alleging that defendants reported inaccurate information on the plaintiff's credit reports and failed to correct the inaccuracies. One of the agencies filed a partial motion to dismiss the claims for injunctive relief as barred under the FCRA. Judge Davis held that private litigants could not seek injunctive relief against consumer reporting agencies under the FCRA, and to the extent injunctive relief was sought under state law, the FCRA preempted it.


text: Summer walk in Prague with this beautiful married couple who visited Europe for holiday from the US. But wait, something doesn't seem right, you might think… Where are all the tourists? Old Town is usually flodded with them during hot summer months, right? Do you want to know the recipe for the smoothest couple photoshoot? It's pretty simple – just get up super early to avoid all the pushing and waiting for the perfect shot without any selfie sticks! You'll be lucky to get cobblestoned streets of Staré Město a Malá Strana just for yourself and some nice morning light as a bonus! Check out my journal for more stories.


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My precious nephew made his appearance in the middle of the night last night. He weighed in at 8 Lbs and 6 oz. He has an enchanting set of dimples that I just wanted to look at for hours. I love him. And I love the way it feels to fall in love at first sight. When I made it home around 3AM I couldn't even sleep! I was just too excited! I know I say it every time, but it never gets old, I adore being his aunt!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Welcome to the World Levi!
5 comments:
- LadySnow said...
He's so beautiful!
- June 26, 2012 at 7:36 AM
- Michelle Fallon said...
How adorable. Congratulations auntie xx
- June 26, 2012 at 11:35 AM
- Jan said...
Congrats auntie! He's a darling boy. Soon we will be saying congrats on your new little one.
- June 26, 2012 at 7:03 PM
- Becky said...
another lovely little boy....congratz coming your way...God bless him xx
- June 27, 2012 at 3:08 PM
- MrsDG@TalesFromHomemadeHouse said...
Ohh he's fab, making me broody!! :)
- July 1, 2012 at 11:50 AM
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Note: I originally posted this for my personal web site - www.atkinsonweather.com. While it somewhat focuses on the forecast for the Merrimack Valley, Southern New Hampshire, and Northern Massachusetts, it also outlines the potential impacts throughout New England over the next several days.
The computer guidance has been hinting for a while that a storm would be developing off of the eastern seaboard around New Year's Day. A potentially significant storm system is still indicated, though its track and intensity remain in question. Hopefully this post will help outline the next few days for you.
One wave of precipitation will begin to move into the region during Thursday afternoon. This wave will bring scattered snow showers into the area during the afternoon. Less cold air will begin to move into the region during the afternoon, changing the precipitation from light snow to light rain along the coastline. Up to 1-3" of accumulating snow is possible in most of the Merrimack Valley, southern New Hampshire, and northern Massachusetts. More is possible in the higher elevations of southwestern New Hampshire and northcentral Massachusetts. Again, most of this snow will be on the lighter side (though it may come down briefly moderately/heavily) and travel shouldn't be a huge issue for your New Year's Eve plans.
On Friday, the system that comes through on Thursday will begin to phase and come together with another batch of moisture emerging off of the southeastern U.S. coast. Once these two systems come together, they will form a monster of a storm offshore. It will actually form well east of New England, so little impact will be felt here on Friday. We'll probably see a bit of a break in the action, with only occasional light flurries/drizzle or passing snow/rain showers.
Friday night into Saturday the forecast confidence goes downhill significantly. It appears as though the storm will mature significantly several hundred miles south of Nova Scotia. In fact, this storm may reach "bombogenesis" criteria, meaning it has strengthened significantly over a 24 hour period. However, the big (unanswered) question is where the storm goes from here. Indications are that the center of the storm will move northward toward Nova Scotia, then loop backwards into the Gulf of Maine, toward New England! This is extremely unusual, and definitely not something that is seen often. The exact position of the storm's center will make a huge difference, as bands of heavy snow will be rotating around the west and northwest quadrant of the storm, into New England. It appears as though the heaviest bands will probably rotate into Maine. Lighter snow showers may pinwheel as far south as the Merrimack Valley and eastern Massachusetts. While the impact will be significantly less in the Merrimack Valley/southern New Hampshire, accumulating snow is still expected, and it may even be plowable. However, the most significant snow appears to occur in Maine. The precise position of the storm in the Gulf of Maine will make a huge difference in our forecast. Therefore, it's important to stay tuned for further updates.
From there, the storm appears to continue its loop westward and southwestward into Sunday. The storm will continue to unravel, gradually losing strength. With the system nearby, expect a continuation of occasional snow showers. The steadiest of the snow would probably fall in the morning. At this time, it appears additional accumulation on Sunday would be light, though this is not etched in stone.
There are indications that occasional flurries and snow showers may linger into Monday or even early Tuesday!
The bottom line is that we simply aren't sure of the outcome of the second storm late Friday through the weekend and early next week will be. Check back for updates here throughout the next day or two as the forecast becomes more clear.


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text:
7.7 ☆
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New Girl Season 7 Episode 5 S07E05 (2011)Series
7.7 ☆
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New Girl Season 7 Episode 5 S07E05 (2011)
New Girl Season 7 Episode 5 S07E05: Jess - a bubbly offbeat teacher who is known to burst into spontaneous song - catches her boyfriend with another woman, and needs a new place to live. She moves into a loft with three single guys she's never met before. Nick is a jaded law-school dropout, who usually just wants to be left alone. Schmidt is a flashy businessman, who believes he is a gift to women. Winston is a former athlete who doesn't know what to do, but really needs to win whatever it is. Can this dysfunctional group handle the "adorkable" new girl? Written by L. Hamre


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Yesterday I went to a village in Lalitpur district called Sainbu Bhaishepati. Located about 30 minutes by bus from Jawalakhel, this is a typical small town in the Kathmandu Valley.
It has a main street, lined with small storefronts:
It is surrounded by fields, where people harvest wheat, mustard greens, and other vegetables:
Homes are in multi-family structures like this typical one, which is unfinished but well lived-in:
You can imagine my surprise, then, when I saw this, a very different vision of multi-family living, just off the main road:
Planned housing developments appear to be cropping up all over the Kathmandu Valley, with names like Park View Horizon, Central Park, Grande Towers, Imperial Court, and, simply, Sterling.
After living and working in China, I well know that striving countries have long been importing gated communities from the U.S. (and, for the record, Beijing is definitely beating out Kathmandu on the name factor; Champagne Villas remains my favorite to date). I was, though, surprised to see so many planned developments in Nepal, which is the poorest country in South Asia and which ranks 148 out of 162 countries in terms of GDP per capita.
The few communities that I have glimpsed close-up appear to be only partially occupied or stalled in development. That, combined with the faux Spanish or Tuscan architecture, has made me do a double take: am I really in Nepal or am I in southern California, Arizona, Nevada -- or China?