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Join local leaders, our sister club Lee Republican Women Federated and the Republican Women of Cape Coral, Federated for this very special event with Speaker of the Florida House Richard Corcoran. This will be one of the most informative and educational opportunities we have offered our members to date. This will also be a wonderful opportunity to meet and network with the members of our sister/mentor club. There will be a lot of amazing Federated Ladies in the house.
5:15 – 5:45 pm – Check-in/Open networking
5:45 – 7:00 pm – Dinner Meeting
**special date & time
Monday, September 18th @ Pinchers, Marina @ Edison Ford
2360 W 1st Street • Fort Myers, FL 33901
Cost: $25
This is a dinner meeting. Reserve your seat and make your dinner selection. Reservations must be made by Thursday, 9/14.
Reserve you seat today! (you will be redirected to LRWF's website which is why it will look different)
Though online reservations are highly preferred, you may also reserve your seat by contacting Wren@ 270-210-1284.
*Please note that a reservation made is a reservation paid unless cancelled by Thursday, September 14th.


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Sarah Oneal and her husband have more than a million YouTube views for their show about drones
Tell us about yourself and your background.
Hi, I am Sarah Oneal. I co-host That Drone Show, co-founded International Drone Day, and produced and was featured in The Drone Invasion documentary. I was born and raised in England. Five years ago I moved to the sunnier climes of California for work, and while here I met my now husband, David.
David and I live in Orange County, California with our baby son Toby, two dogs and five cats. We live a five minute drive from the beach and a fifteen minute drive from Disneyland. But it's not all amazing – our house is actually in a no-fly zone!
How did you get started in the drone industry?
David is a photographer and film maker. He saw a drone used in a commercial he worked on and wanted to achieve similar shots so convinced me we should buy one. As soon as he flew it he was hooked. He asked me to try it and I soon realized how addictive it is. Pretty soon many of our trips involved capturing photos and videos using our drones.
How did the idea for your wildly popular program "That Drone Show" come about?
That Drone Show began as a way for David and I to learn more about drones. We knew there was a lot to learn and what better way to do so than by asking experts?
The content of the show has evolved as the drone world has changed. We now cover news, interview people, and cover lots of events.
In the last few months alone we covered the launch of the DJI Phantom 4 Pro and Inspire 2, the launch of the Connex Falcore, InterDrone, the International Drone Expo, CES, SoCal Maker Con, and the AMA Expos East and West.
Drone racing has become huge in the last year and we have many shows on this. Much of our racing coverage is live streamed. We covered the first ever drone race at CES, and will soon be streaming the Great Lakes Cup. This is going to be a huge race in a stadium and you will not want to miss it.
For W&D readers not familiar with "That Drone Show" how can they tune in to the program?
Search for That Drone Show on YouTube, or go to http://www.thatdroneshow.com and follow the link at the top of the page. We have over 1 million YouTube views and are thankful for each one!
We also have an extremely active social media presence and have over 125k followers.
In the movie the "Drone invasion" the focus is on dispelling untruths about drones. What are some examples of the major untruths about drones?
Outside the drone community we often hear that drones are dangerous, that they invade people's privacy, and that they are used in war. I'll begin with the last one – drones are used in war. However, these are not the sorts of drones that people outside the military fly! It is disappointing and confusing when mainstream media present news stories about military drones and the accompanying image is of a DJI Phantom or similar.
Drones themselves are not dangerous. They may be operated in that way, just like a car can be used to commute to work or can be driven recklessly. People's behavior does not make the machine itself bad.
One of the things I love about the drone industry is that drone pilots are quick to let people not flying safely and in accordance with the law know that they are not operating their drone in an acceptable manner.
The fear over drones invading privacy is the one I have the most difficulty understanding. We live in a world in which we are surrounded by cameras all the time. We have surveillance cameras in the street, security cameras in offices and stores, people are taking pictures and videos on their cell phones at restaurants bars, we see selfie sticks at the beach and at tourist attractions. David and I even have cameras in our home so we can watch our pets while we are out! Drones are not "invading" anywhere that isn't already being watched. Plus, they are loud! You will hear a drone way before you see it.
In The Drone Invasion we also address fears surrounding drones crashing into airplanes, and more, as well as exploring many of the wonderful things drones are used for. I produced and am featured in the movie which David directed. It also stars notable women in drones such as Sally French, Laurie Rubin, Abbe Lyle and Maria Stefanopoulos.
The Drone Invasion is available on Amazon Video.
As a leader in the drone space, you also run a drone marketing company. Tell us about your marketing company.
David and I have a marketing company, Wildly Creative Marketing, which specializes in the drone and tech industries.
We come from media and marketing backgrounds. David has over 25 years of video production experience, and my experience is in social media, event management, operations and PR. That coupled with our deep understanding of the drone world and strong relationships with key players puts us in a unique position to help businesses.
Our services include product launches, organizing events, organizing and live streaming drone races, securing sponsorship, social media takeovers, video production, and much more.
What brand/model of drones do you fly?
I am fortunate to have the opportunity to fly many different drones. I currently use the DJI Phantom 4 and the Yuneec Breeze. I also fly smaller drones around the house and for practice.
Industry Experience:
What do you like most about being in the UAV industry?
I love technology and I am in awe at the speed at which new functionality come to market in the UAV industry. This coupled with the continually innovative ways in which drones are used to carry out all sorts of work makes it an exciting place to be.
What's your favorite type of project and why?
I am lucky to work on a wide variety of projects and I love them all for different reasons. Anything I work on with David is my favorite! We spark off each other creatively as well as having great fun.
Do you have a success story you would like to share?
International Drone Day!
David and I founded International Drone Day because we got tired of hearing negativity about drones. We invited people to organize and attend events dedicated to showing that "drones are good".
The first International Drone Day was a huge success with such people as the CEO of Intel taking part. Last year it was an even bigger success. Tens of thousands of people worldwide take part each year and International Drone Day 2017 is set to be the biggest yet.
Our mission is to attract positive attention and to educate the non-drone community and media about the good things drones are used for, such as search and rescue, crime scene analysis, film making, agriculture, and more. Through education we will protect our right to fly.
International Drone Day is an annual event which everyone in the drone world needs to be involved in! It is held on the first Saturday of May each year, so this year is the 6th of May. Events are held all over the world on one day. It kicks off in Australia – where International Drone Day Captains include Jessica Culley and Diana Champion – and ends in Hawaii. There are events held throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, South America and North America. Please support your local event by attending. If you wish to become a Team Captain, please email email@example.com
We are very proud that the Academy of Model Aeronautics is the title sponsor of International Drone Day.
What excites you most about the potential for women in the industry?
The support many women within the drone industry give to each other is immense. It is unlike anything I have experienced before. I am fortunate to be part of a strong network of females within the drone community. As part of the Amelia Dronehart group, I am part of a varied and accomplished group of women who have achieved great positions based purely on talent and drive. These women inspire me.
What You've Learned:
What has been your most significant "lightbulb" moment since you entered the industry?
At one of the first drone events we attended a few children approached David and I to tell us how much they enjoyed our show and how excited they were to learn more about and fly drones. This really made me aware that drones are not just for geeky tech enthusiasts, and opened my eyes to the potential of drones. If such excitement can be developed through STEAM programs and real life drone experience we have future industry leaders who will do things with this technology that's not yet even occurred to us adults.
What have you learned you wish you had known when you got started?
I have learnt that the power of community is greater than the power of the individual. I used to be very protective of our ideas, but International Drone Day taught me that by inviting other people to take part in leadership roles – as we did with the Team Captains – collective efforts will achieve more than we ever could alone.
Is there a tip you learned you would like to share with other women in the industry?
There is a lot of discussion about sexism in the drone industry and it is there for sure, both overtly and subtly. I have received it from both women and men. This is though also the case in other industries I have worked in so I think that says more about society than it does to the drone world.
Probably the most sexist things I encounter is people assuming that David is the leader in everything we do and treating him as such and me as more of a "dolly bird". This diminishes my contribution and achievements. I get this literally every day from both men and women. It is extremely frustrating. I work hard to change people's perception of our dynamic. We are very much an equal partnership and team in everything we do.
That said, there are many people in the drone industry that treat me as they would David, which is my personal barometer for sexism. Gravitate to the people that treat you as you want, and deserve, to be treated – they are the ones that will appreciate your talents and will work with you. No one should feel inadequate or frustrated because of others' shortcomings.
Also, there are men and women that will want to tear you down. Do not let them! Do not let others hold you back from doing the things you love. Go for what you want – work hard, do not compromise your integrity, and achieve your dreams!
What's the best way for W&D readers to connect with you?
Sarah Oneal

subset: commoncrawl


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Journal of Diabetes Research
Volume 2016, Article ID 8714745, 7 pages
Interaction between Mean Arterial Pressure and HbA1c in Prediction of Cardiovascular Disease Hospitalisation: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
1Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
2Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele ST5 5BG, UK
3Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Sydney, NSW 2751, Australia
Received 13 January 2016; Revised 10 April 2016; Accepted 22 May 2016
Academic Editor: Kim Connelly
Copyright © 2016 Dahai Yu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Objective. To explore the relationship between mean arterial pressure (MAP), HbA1c, and cardiovascular (CV) hospitalisation risk in type 2 diabetes. Design. Population-based case-control study. Settings. Primary and secondary care level in Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom. Participants. 588 patients with type 2 diabetes from 18 English general practices recording a CV hospitalisation in 2009–2011 were included. Risk-set sampling was used to select 2920 gender, age, and practice matched control type 2 diabetes patients. Main Outcome Measure. Conditional logistic regression was used to explore further dose-response relationships between MAP, HbA1c, and CV hospitalisation risk. Results. The relationship between MAP and CV hospitalisation was nonlinear ( for linearity test). The MAP associated with the lowest CV hospitalisation risk was 97 (95% CI: 93–101) mmHg. An interaction between MAP and HbA1c for increased risk of cardiovascular hospitalisation was observed among those with HbA1c < 7% (53 mmol/mol) and MAP < 97 mmHg. Conclusions. In type 2 diabetes, MAP is a good predictor of CV hospitalisation risk. CV hospitalisation is lowest with a MAP between 93 and 101 mmHg. CV hospitalisation was particularly high among those with both a low MAP and a lower HbA1c.


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Maximum Living Succulents
Succulent plants have grown in popularity in recent years due to their minimalist, yet exotic aesthetic and relatively low maintenance compared to other plants. Succulents look great indoors or outside in a planter, and you can get really creative with your arrangements.
Succulents will do best in containers that receive plenty of light and have good drainage like terra cotta pots or planters. However, with proper care, they can do fine in a glass container as well.
Succulents have evolved in more arid climates, so they do not need constant watering like some other plants. Instead, they prefer to be soaked for a short period, then dry out over a few days. Once the soil is dried out, it's ready for another soak. Watering every day, or letting them soak too long because of poor drainage is the most common way succulents die inside the home. If outside in a rainy climate with less sun, like the Pacific Northwest, a shallow soil bed may be preferable so they can dry out quicker.
Succulents do need a good deal of light to thrive. If indoors, placing them next to a window is ideal. If they can't get at least 8 hours of indirect sunlight, then a grow lamp may be necessary. When succulent plants do not get enough light, they will start to grow tall and the leaves separate from each other in a search for more light. This is opposed to their usually tight, compact leaf placement. If this happens, you can cut the top part of the plant off and re-plant.
Arranging Your Plants
There are many ways to arrange your succulents, whether grouped together or potted individually. You should not have any issues finding small clay planters or pots anywhere gardening products are sold, but you may be able find more stylish and unique holders at smaller, boutique plant shops. For soil, you can purchase potting soil designed specifically for succulents, or create your own by adding sand to your normal soil mix. This sandy soil helps with drainage, and is more similar to the habitats where succulents thrive. From there, you have a lot of options to freshen up the look of your plant bed. Small stones, smooth pebbles, or crushed gravel of various colors can go nicely with your plants. I like to recreate a desert vibe with warm-colored stones, or a dark, mossy look that can accentuate the different plant colors. There's no shortage of inspiration online, and we've created a Pinterest board with various looks that you can re-create here.


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Topic: Open Sourcing of Internally Created Technologies
At this StackUp, we'll be hearing from companies who have open sourced products—either their main product or other tools. They'll discuss the advantages and challenges, how they care and feed the product and the community around it, the tools they use and how they run their product development in an open source environment.
Matvey Arye: Matvey is Core Architect at Timescale.
Andrew Kofink: Andrew is a Software Engineer at Red Hat. Red Hat is the world's leading provider of enterprise open source solutions, using a community-powered approach to deliver high-performing Linux, cloud, container, and Kubernetes technologies.
Zohar Babin: Zohar is VP, Platform & Growth at Kaltura. Kaltura provides live and on-demand video PaaS and SaaS solutions powering video experiences and apps to thousands of organizations around the world, engaging hundreds of millions of viewers at home, at work, and at school.
Tarek Sherif: Tarek is Senior Software Engineer, Visualization at Uber. He will be presenting on vis.gl: Open-source Tools for Large-scale Geospatial Data Visualization.


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The efficient blower fan and the electric metering drive of the seed drill provide flexible seed rates. The coulter pressure can be set either mechanically with the aid of the universal operating tool or hydraulically from the tractor cab. Control of the machine is carried out either via AMADRILL+ or an ISOBUS terminal.
Segmented distributor head
AMAZONE now also supplies this harrow-mounted seed drill with a segmented distributor head. Depending on the row spacing, the new head offers the possibility to control 2 x 5 or 2 x 6 tramline segments. Tramline control is carried out directly at the segmented distributor head and can be matched very flexibly and easily to the track width and tyre width. When creating tramlines, the seed rate is reduced via the electric metering depending on the number of closed rows.
As a special option, electric half-side shut-off for the segmented distributor head is available which, when creating asymmetrical tramlines, enables the start at the field's edge with half a machine width. In addition, via GPS-Switch, an automated half-side shut-off on diagonal headlands or in wedge-shaped fields is possible.
Soil tillage with so much more comfort
The new generation of KE 01, KX 01 and KG 01 PTO-driven soil tillage implements now also provide a new coupling system to carry the pneumatic AD-P 01 Special. The most important advantages of the new soil tillage implements include above all, in addition to the comfortable machine setting with the universal tool, the parallel guidance of the drill on top of the roller. Furthermore the levelling board is fixed to the following roller. For reconsolidation of the soil a wide range of different packer rollers is available.


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Quick links [Hide]
Rating: 10.0
Votes: 2
Plays: 1.7k
About Island Defense:
Island Defense is an interesting tower defense game. This game has simple graphics, suitable for all ages, especially children and families. You can experience this game on your browser because it is a flash game.
In this game you will build towers and you must destroy all your enemies. You will have 10 HP. Each time your enemy runs to the target location safely, you lose 1 HP. When you lose all HP, you lose.
Island Defense has many maps, each one will be a challenge for you. Your enemies will appear in waves and you must have a perfect tactic to destroy them. You will have many towers with different effects in this game.
After completing a map, you will have money. You can use money to upgrade your towers or buy new towers. You can also sell your towers to buy more powerful towers. Good luck and have fun!
If you like this game, you can also play others games with the same game play such as The King of Towers, Cursed Treasure 2…
How to Play:
Tips and Tricks:


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Talking Importance, Comfort and Success
We go about our lives saying things to other people and doing things for them. What makes something we do "important", though? I could ask you to "Have a nice day!" or casually inquire, "What's up?" We do that a lot. If you're like most people when I say these things, and I know I can at times be, your responses might very well be "Thanks" and "Not much", respectively. Such two-line conversations seem to not add anything significant to the overall quality of our lives, even added up over the course of our lifetimes. They're fillers, really, sort of like the less evocative songs between hits on an album of pop music. We don't even expect anything compelling to come of them. They have their functions, still, insofar as they serve to continually reestablish societal connections between us. That's an important aspect. Set in the context of communication—see "commune", "communion", "community", and "common" for textual origins and connections—they are drops in an ocean, or mortar between bricks. Less relativistic, the question becomes: what creates a moment of seeming importance then, a wave, a splash, in that ocean? Answering that is a matter of talking about experience, being accustomed, and having perspective.
I worked nights in a machine parts packaging factory one summer in college, and there the everyday discourse was probably extremely dull. Same old, same old. Another day, another dollar. Back to the grind. Etc. What I mean is—tellingly—I have no memory of any of the dialog I exchanged with any of my coworkers at that place, apart from several talks I had about philosophy with one person during meal breaks. The words that individual and I said to each other were quite short of life-changing; I don't remember what philosophically he and I even discussed. Nevertheless, our conversations rose above the level of small talk because I recall having had them. They weren't very important, though. The blue grease covering the machine parts and my hands every night was much more memorable, and that's revealing.
Given the right situational conditions, we can usually become accustomed to pretty much anything, within reason. Partly, that's what times and places like schools, colleges, camps, classes, lessons, seminars and such are for: immersing us in an environment that asks of us that we get used to taking part in activities that are more demanding than to what we'd hitherto experienced. That's why changes like going to school, for instance, are hard for many if only just at first. Over the long run, however, performing well in a context where one is continually officially evaluated is as much it seems about getting our nervous system and everything else about us acclimated to the frequently more intense stimulation as it is about correctly doing what is expected of us. Students who get good grades aren't just smart; they've become comfortable and to a certain extent happy in school. Likewise, when we fail at something there is always a much larger and longer context than pure capability or lack thereof. Even alone—say, practicing free throws with a basketball in a gym—there is a complex social situation involved. Success and failure are defined by their cultural context, after all. We are societal creatures. If the ball misses the basket, how is it an adequate solution to cast it off as a case of lacking ability, which in fact says nothing? "She just couldn't do it" states the obvious without going further into why. Really, so many variables are involved even when people are in solitude that any single-reason-based attempts to explain evaluations of "success" and "failure" are less helpful than they are diverting. Maybe the ball missed the basket because the thrower, for one thing, was throwing for the first time, or for the 1000th time while distracted by thoughts of a troubled friend. In a larger sense, since shooting and scoring become easier for people (who are inclined toward whatever is involved) with time the way school or any activity does over time we should conclude that it's not just practice that gets us closer to "perfection", but also comfort. Practice involves increasing the ease of use, entirely—when adequate habits form and enough motor control becomes automatic, lots of amazing stuff is possible: juggling, playing a drum set, driving a car, performing surgery, and so on.
In Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back Luke Skywalker attempts to use The Force to raise his X-Wing out of the swamp on Dagobah. Struggling, he almost does it. He loses his Force grip, though, and the spacecraft sinks back into the muck. Yoda (with much grace) lifts the craft out and sets it on dry land. Astounded, Luke gasps to Yoda, "I don't believe it." Yoda says, "That is why you fail." The moral here seems to be that by way of belief (that you can be successful at something) you thereby have the capacity for that success, or, in a more cultural sense, that once we believe that it is possible for us to achieve something we'd hitherto thought to be impossible, we are that much closer to actually achieving it.
As is sometimes the case, the dialog and subtexts in Star Wars movies are sketchy and roughly realized. Just before Luke's X-Wing raising attempt, he says to Yoda, "All right, I'll give it a try." Yoda responds thusly: "No! Try not. Do, or do not. There is no try." It's a popular line with fans. Except, the issue we could take with this philosophy of intentionality and action—a question of morality, essentially—is that it is borderline thinking in psychological terms, an "all or nothing" system of dualistic thought in philosophical terms. If Luke "does not", does it make sense to say he still "tried", after all, because really he does lift the X-Wing half out of the swamp? Or, has he completely failed because he didn't completely succeed? We have to turn back to the situational, societal definition of success in that instant. In the situation of the Star Wars universe Yoda says Luke has not at all been successful, meaning the lesson has been officially evaluated based on a pass/fail grading system. When Yoda "does" then, accordingly we're to suppose without "trying", his achievement is constructed to mean that since he believes he can "do", he can succeed.
Even so, beyond the aforementioned scene there is a larger context we cannot ignore in the further action of the movie and its sequel: Luke is training to be a Jedi, and although the X-Wing "failure" moment is an attempt by the movie's story composer George Lucas and the other screenplay writers to place that training within the borderline/duality of pass/fail, it becomes apparent that Luke's lessons are multiple, ongoing, and difficult for him. By then, having dropped the X-Wing becomes something other than a doing or not doing; it's been a lesson in self-confidence. After all, Yoda basically means to say that as Luke becomes more comfortable with the idea that he can do, he will do. Set in the context of his schooling, then, Luke eventually achieves the skill to levitate large objects using the Force not only because he has repeatedly done so, but also because he has not done so enough times by way of effort, attempts, tests of strength and fitness—in other words "trying". This both "trying" and "doing or not doing" at once is where this morality of Star Wars seems to fall apart, to lose its grip on its own Force, so to speak, since it's only partly an adequate notion that we are students of intentionality/action as long as we are doing or not doing what we have set out to do, whereas no level of mastery would ever be accomplished without failures and partial successes. Star Wars itself at this fracture is partly successful at avoiding the idea of partial success. Truly, at that point any number of its instances of not doing become parts of the larger doing, the having done. What Luke does as a "successful" Jedi Knight later is much more a result of many small past pass/fail lessons (according to Yoda's grading scheme) than any immediate accomplishment right then and there. Jabba the Hutt is defeated in Return of the Jedi because Luke has spent time with Yoda trying to be a Jedi, not only passing or failing but also trying to pass—not to fail—nevertheless, and little by little succeeding. Life and lessons are full of these gray areas of success, in a way, more than they are so of complete wins or abject losses.
Important talk, important doing, important accomplishments through speech or other physical action seem less common in most people's everyday lives than they do in the lives of characters depicted in movies and other forms of entertainment, of course. If they didn't we'd have much less use for movies, TV shows, theater, music or for that matter anything else where another person or party is doing something extremely interesting to us, probably with so much skill they make it look easy. The mundane is always in stark contrast to the spectacular. It doesn't have to be like this, although in a way it likely always will be insofar as since so many different skill sets are necessary to keep our civilization functioning (political leaders, janitors, computer technicians, nurses, banjo players, and so on ad infinitum). We can and often do simply consider our everyday lives to be humdrum and normal because what we get good at over time we also necessarily become very comfortable with and desensitized to. Sensing other people doing what to us seems amazingly novel and therefore enjoyable to us as a spectator doesn't necessarily mean they are doing anything more important than our jobs and/or hobbies. It might mean that. It might not. When I packaged grease-coated machine parts for a living that summer, I was contributing to the ongoing cause of maintaining a working society, albeit in a small way. Arguably, the philosophical conversations I had on my breaks were far less important than the manual labor I was performing on the clock. This is a matter of perspective, it would seem. We can't all be Jedi Knights saving the galaxy from tyrannical evil. Tales of epic battles like Star Wars dramatically accentuate divisions between good and bad, hero and villain, pass and fail, etc., and yet as long as we real people get up in the morning, try to do good jobs, take care of ourselves and others, and be nice to our fellow beings, it can be said fairly accurately that we are heroes succeeding at doing some good, that the galaxy is better off for our presence.


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PT (Professional Tax)
Professional tax is the tax by the state governments in India. Anyone earning an income from salary or anyone practicing a profession such as chartered accountant, company secretary, lawyer, doctor etc. are required to pay this professional tax. Business owners, working individuals, merchants and people carrying out various occupations comes under the purview of this tax. Different states have different rates and methods of collection. In India, not all states impose this tax. The states which impose professional tax are Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Kerala, Meghalaya, Odisha, Tripura, Madhya Pradesh, and Sikkim.
The maximum amount payable per year is INR 2,500 and in line with tax payer's salary, there are predetermined slabs. It is also payable by members of staff employed in private companies. It is deduced by the employer every month and sent to the Municipal Corporation. It is a mandatory to pay professional tax. The tax payer is eligible for income tax deduction for this payment.


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FARMINGDALE, N.Y., May 19 (Reuters) - American Brooks Koepka won the PGA Championship on Sunday, his fourth major title. The following is a list of players aged under 50 with the most major championships.
15 - Tiger Woods
5 - Phil Mickelson
4 - Ernie Els, Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka
3 - Jordan Spieth, Padraig Harrington (Compiled by Andrew Both; Editing by Ian Ransom)


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Price History
Ranking - Games (iPhone)
Ranking - Games (iPad)
Block vs Block
We modify the world most attractive puzzle game on PC / NES / FC / PS. How to play it is no need to explain. iOS "Block vs Block" allow you play against computer, or human (iPad only).
- 16 different shapes
- 4 different special items
- VS mode
Very attractive graphic, very easy to control, very strong computer player. What are you waiting for? Download and enjoy it now!
Preview video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlUCP7t1Ii0
We have published a new version.
"Block vs Block II"
Infinity Tank Battle
Battle City : Forever Classic


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Ref : Di-RUB-HOM3
Valeur : épuisé
Étiquettes : Dior, Dior Homme
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At last, the final debut line-up of 'Mix Nine' has been revealed.
After a rigorous 4 months of training and survival, the final debuting team between the top 9 members of the male and female groups will be the male group. Woo Jin Young has taken the top spot once again among the boys, and the top rank for girls was taken by Shin Ryu Jin.
For this final episode, Big Bang's Seungri and Taeyang, as well as the singer Zion.T joined in as special guest judges.
As the boys and girls performed their last stages, Zion.T mentioned after the 1st round that Woo Jin Young had a great vocal tone. CEO Yang Hyun Suk also applauded both teams that they did just as well, if not better, than he had expected.
Before the 2nd round, the dangerous ranks 9 and 10 at the time of the live broadcasting were revealed. Yao Ming Ming and Kim Min Suk held the 9th and 10th spots for the boys; Choi Moon Hee and Lee Ha Young held the 9th and 10th spots for the girls.
After the final rounds, the contestants watched a special video of the days when they practiced "Just Dance." As a quick time to relax, both the contestants and the guests reminisced the first days of 'Mix Nine.'
When the final reveal time came around, all contestants had their hearts clenched as voting results were decided permanently.
The final results were as follows:
Top 9 Female
1. Shin Ryu Jin
2. Lee Soo Min
3. Park Soo Min
4. Jeon Hee Jin
5. Nam Yoo Jin
6. Choi Moon Hee
7. Kim Sori
8. Jang Hyo Kyung
9. Lee Ha Young
Top 9 Male - TO DEBUT
1. Woo Jin Young
2. Kim Hyo Jin
3. Lee Ru Bin
4. Kim Byung Kwan
5. Choi Hyun Suk
6. Song Han Kyeom
7. Kim Min Seok
8. Lee Dong Hoon
9. Lee Byeong Gon
Although the entire voting was up to the viewers, the guest artists of YG Entertainment praised the trainees for all their hard work during the past few months.
Congratulations to the final Top 9, and well done to all participants who gave it their best shot!


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In this hour beginner class, learn introductory pole dance spins and transitions to the hottest songs from Atlanta artists. Old school and new school songs will be featured! Heels recommended but not required! Shorts are required and please do not apply any lotion, oil, gels, etc to your body prior to class.
*Limited spots available*
Investment: $25 or purchase a class card and save $10 a class!


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Electric Forest 2015
View full album through Facebook or MassEDMC
Electric Forest Music Festival taking place in Rothbury, Michigan (June 25-28th)
I partnered up with MassEDMC to once again return to Sherwood Forest. The trees of this land have long been sought for rituals through dance and music, to my belief, go far back beyond the festivals being thrown on this ground now.
That being said- it was a blessing to return to the festival that I felt had first given me my first true soul spiritually aligning awakening back in 2012. It was the first place I had ever felt welcome to the planet of Earth.
Take a look for yourself :)


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Reader Appreciation Giveaway (Closed)
While I celebrate one year of Oh Whimsical Me, it is only natural to also celebrate my readers!
As a huge thank you, I've put together a giveaway for all of you lovelies. I have met so many wonderful people and heard countless stories from you. Thank you for sharing with me as I've shared bits of my life with you. If you haven't introduced yourself to me yet, please do so. I simply wouldn't still be up to this blogging thing without your continued support. You are my number one inspiration, friends!
This giveaway features two unique prizes, and each will have it's own winner. Enter to win both, or just the one you would prefer — it's up to you!
Custom Blog Design Services
to include, but not limited to:
+ brand working
+ logo design
+ custom header, sidebar, footer, buttons, favicon, etc.
+ step-by-step, one-on-one collaboration
+ installation of new template and design
+ continued communication and support after installation
As I work toward opening a design services shop, in conjunction with this blog, I am working to build my portfolio and gain experience working with clients. I'd love for you to be a part of it!
Homemade/handmade goodies from me!
+ notebook/notepad
+ custom embroidery art
+ custom hand-cut, hand-painted cork coasters
+ woodland animal pillow
+ a surprise gift!
Please note:
All items in package two (with the exception of the notepad) will be different than what is pictured. Unless you absolutely want an item pictured, I want to custom make your giveaway prizes to suit your taste! This means you may chose your quote and color scheme for the embroidery art. A selection of up to four colors will be used for the cork coasters, and you may choose between square or circular coasters. The handmade pillow can be either an owl, deer, or rabbit. I'll throw in a surprise, too! This prize package is open to US and Canada readers only.
- Follow Oh Whimsical Me on Bloglovin, then simply leave me a comment below stating that you do so. Also, tell me what your favorite Oh Whimsical Me post has been so far!
- At the end of your comment, please state if you would like to enter to win PACKAGE ONE, PACKAGE TWO, or BOTH. Make sure I have a way of contacting you as well.
- I will randomly select a winner for both prizes and contact the winners via email. Giveaway is open for one week starting today, and closes Friday March 28 at 5:00 PM MST.
- Prize PACKAGE TWO is open to US and Canada residents only. Sorry, international readers! Shipping is expensive. Anyone, anywhere may enter to win the custom design services, though!
- For each additional entry, reply to your original comment and tell me how else you follow Oh Whimsical Me. Leave a separate reply comment for each example. You have up to 4 additional entry opportunities — meaning your name can be entered into the drawing up to 4 more times, per prize package (you have a better chance of winning!). See additional entry qualifications below.
Good Luck! Thank you for reading and sticking around this past year. I really like you.
Congratulations to CJ for winning Package One and Dus for winning Package Two!


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Nurturepelli Soaps Nurtures Skin Naturally/
Nurturepelli Soaps began on Heather Warren's New Hampshire farm 24 years ago and continues here in St. Augustine today.
Heather has always loved bath products. She saw her first bar of homemade soap at a farmers' market in Portsmouth and soon after signed up for a soap making class. Heather set out her first batch of Oatmeal Lavender soap next to the cash register in June during "pick your own" strawberry season and sold out of her soap the same day.
The next batch Heather made was a lemony soap she named "Farmer's Soap" after her husband, a full-time farmer. It's still a customer favorite to this day.
Heather has continued to make soap because she completely enjoys working anything to do with plants and herbal healing – but also because her own super sensitive skin calmed with the use of her products. Her main focus over the years has been to develop a soap recipe that everyone can use with positive benefit.
Each batch of Nurturepelli Soap begins with a skin-soothing infusion of Calendula flowers and most batches end with the addition of specialty nut oils such as argon and avocado to deepen the soothing capability of her bars. Heather's soaps are packed with glycerin, a humectant that draws moisture to the skin and imparting a moisture barrier throughout the day. Pure essential oils allow for the most soothing cleanse experience. Nurturepelli Soaps contain such a high percentage of essential oils that they are considered therapeutic.
Each bar Nurturepelli Soaps offers is made to be as close to nature as possible. No fragrances, perfumes or chemical fillers (code words for synthetics) are used in Heather's soaps, as they can be irritating.
Nurturepelli strives to source sustainably farmed nut oils for all their soaps. Although Heather does package her soap for retail and special occasions, she prefers to sell her soap in the raw, without packaging. Less packaging is more sustainable for the earth and allows the soap to breath. (And, it helps keep the cost down!) All Nurturepelli bars are Vegan, containing no animal products, except for our Goats Milk soap recipes.
Contact Heather at firstname.lastname@example.com to order your soap or pick up a few bars at her booth at Made in St. Augustine.


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Heads up! Come check out our new forums, CurlTalk.
How do i get the top layer of my hair to be curlier?
I have type 3b the very underneath layer of my hair, the middle layer of my hair is 3a but the very top layer is 2a or even less curly! Is there any way I can get it to be curlier on top to match my other curls? Thanks
1 Answer
i have a similar problem with my hair. what i do to kind of even out my curls is that i finger-curl the pieces that aren't as curly as the others. before twisting the small strands of hair around my finger, i apply curl enhancer or mousse to them. i then scrunch them up a bit and usually diffuse my hair because i feel like i have more control over the outcome of my curls when diffusing instead of air drying. hope this helped :)
This Q&A section is soo last year... Talk curls at the all new CurlTalk!


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La Crête, Alberta 10 minutes east of La Crete 17802851034
If you are looking for a secluded, comfortable rustic getaway featuring outdoor cabin experience, come check out the Cabin In the Woods Bed & Breakfast. Cabin in the Woods B&B is a fully contained/furnished cabin with everything you need for an enjoyable experience. It features 2 lofts, full kitchen, sitting room, 3 piece bath, hot/cold water, wood stove or furnace for heating. 1 queen bed, 1 sofa bed, furnished with luxurious linens and towels. Hunters welcome! Ideal location surrounded by fields (hunting will need to be arranged & confirmed with field owners). Included with your stay: luxurious bathrobes, towels & bedding; blow dryer; continental breakfast; tea & coffee; firewood for inside & outside; lawn chairs provided; books/games; full kitchen; full-size barbecue.


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Contemporary Faith
Begins at 9:45 a.m. in room N-218.
Coordinator, Lynn Kiehne at email@example.com.
This class explores how to interpret and relate biblical teachings to contemporary life. Participants—of all ages—share experiences and ideas on a cariety of topics. Study is based on books such as The Benedict Option, Why We're Here: Ethics for the Real World, and The Call: The Life and Message of the Apostle Paul. On summer break until September.
Faith Journey
Begins at 9:45 a.m. in room S-202.
Coordinator Beth Houghton at email@example.com.
Facilitated discussion and sharing based on assigned books that relate to faith development and deeper spirituality. This traditional-formatted class appeals to mature Christians who seek a fuller understanding of the Bible and its implications for our lives, especially filling a need to those who are opened- minded and hunger for contemporary learning. Authors are sometimes controversial theologians and other spiritual writers of note.
Faith-Filled Families
Begins at 9:45 a.m. in room S-100
Coordinator, Dennis Zuercher at firstname.lastname@example.com
Christian families are often the core of a church; the strength of families and the marriages/relationships is vital to the mission and vision that God has for us. This group focuses on learning to make the most of our relationships with God, our families, and others through contemporary biblical study of common Christian values and family life issues. Join us for lively group discussion!
Begins at 9:45 a.m. in room N-123.
Coordinator, Marilyn Mulcahy at email@example.com.
Bible-based, teacher-led classes for adults of all ages (at present 50-99) who enjoy a special camaraderie and lively discussion on current religious/ cultural issues. On summer break until September.


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25 Gifts Under $50/
Whether you are looking for stocking stuffers, friend gifts, or just some last minute little presents, here are 25 gifts that are perfect for the occasion.
Amazon Echo Dot
Perfect for an addition to an "Alexafied" house, or perfect for someone that just wants a small speaker in their room.
Gold Hoops
Portable Charger
A great stocking stuffer. I don't know one person who hasn't let their phone die in the middle of the day.
Everyone needs a good pair of gold hoops. They go with so many outfits and will last for a long time.
FabFitFun Box
These are a great gift, because you don't really even have to think that hard about what to buy. The box does it for you!
Yves Saint Laurent Coffee Table Book
A coffee table book is a great gift, because they are easy to buy, and they will always be of use. Even if they are not read, they can be used as decoration.
Digital Photoframe
I love these because it takes the stress out of picking one photo to display.
Polaroid Film
So many people have little polaroid cameras these days, so film is the perfect stocking stuffer.
Tote Bag
Everyone needs a tote bag. Whether you use it for travel, work, or everyday, there will always be a need.
Coffee Maker
Great for the college student, or the friend with the new apartment.
I mean this should be self explanatory, but chocolate is always the perfect gift. It's the key to my heart at least.
Cocktail Kit
This is perfect for a housewarming gift. Plus, the matte black finish makes it extra sleek and cool.
Bobbi Brown Kit
I love everything Bobbi Brown does, so this needs no explanation. If you haven't used any of Bobbi's stuff before, this is your chance to try it out!
Homesick Candle
These candles are great to add a personal touch to any gift. Give your friends candles from their home state, and it is sure to make anyone happy.
Pajama Set
Ok I'll be honest. I haven't tried this brand of pajamas yet, but I really love the print.
Workout Leggings
These are great for your friend that is ready to kick start their New Years fitness goals.
Record Player
A record player is a perfect addition to your home. It is decorative, and it is great to play music and bring a little character.
You have to have a record to play on your record player right? This is one of my favorites.
What gifts are you looking for next? Let me know down below, and be sure to check out my other gift guides as well as my most recent post below!


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Cancer resistance to PI3K inhibitor therapy can be in part mediated by increases in the PIM1 kinase. However, the exact mechanism by which PIM kinase promotes tumor cell resistance is unknown. Our study unveils the pivotal control of redox signaling by PIM kinases as a driver of this resistance mechanism. PIM1 kinase functions to decrease cellular ROS levels by enhancing nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/antioxidant response element activity. PIM prevents cell death induced by PI3K-AKT–inhibitory drugs through a noncanonical mechanism of NRF2 ubiquitination and degradation and translational control of NRF2 protein levels through modulation of eIF4B and mTORC1 activity. Importantly, PIM also controls NAD(P)H production by increasing glucose flux through the pentose phosphate shunt decreasing ROS production, and thereby diminishing the cytotoxicity of PI3K-AKT inhibitors. Treatment with PIM kinase inhibitors reverses this resistance phenotype, making tumors increasingly susceptible to small-molecule therapeutics, which block the PI3K-AKT pathway.
Note: Supplementary data for this article are available at Molecular Cancer Therapeutics Online (http://mct.aacrjournals.org/).
- Received April 10, 2018.
- Revision received May 27, 2018.
- Accepted August 30, 2018.
- Published first September 6, 2018.
- ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.
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Ed Pinder Scholarship
We are extremely excited and grateful to share the news of the newly established scholarship fund available to our softball players. There are a few guidelines :) All of the details can be found on the application as well as details for submission.
The Scholarship application for 2019 can be found: https://s3.amazonaws.com/my.llfiles.com/00073320/Scholarship-application-2019.pdf
Application Deadline: May 1, 2019
A message from Ed Pinder...
In addition to the extreme honor of the field dedication next Saturday, I know my family is also extremely proud of the decision by the Parkville Rec Council to establish the Ed Pinder Softball Scholarship Fund. Having coached at all age levels, I always thought that one of the biggest compliments to our program was when a high school junior or senior drove themselves to the rec practices and games. Some came right from their JV or varsity practices; others came because they just enjoyed playing softball. I know if our program was not fun, they would not have shown up. We wanted this scholarship to recognize the "Love of the Game" which I always tried to instill. I can't think of a better legacy.
Soooooooo, of course we are looking for donations to get this fund up and running; and we are graciously asking for your help.
If interested, please send a check made payable:
Parkville Rec Council
put Ed Pinder Softball Scholarship Fund in the memo line.
8601 Harford Rd.
Baltimore, Maryland 21234
The Rec Council is a 501(c)(3) organization.
The printable donation request for this scholarship can be found: //s3.amazonaws.com/my.llfiles.com/00073320/ED-PINDER-SOFTBALL-SCHOLARSHIP-FUND-Donation-Letter.pdf


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(Guitar Recorded Versions). All 10 tracks from this critically acclaimed 1965 release by blues master B.B. King are featured in standard and notation and tab, including: Every Day I Have the Blues * Help the Poor * How Blue Can You Get * It's My Own Fault Darlin' * Please Love Me * Sweet Little Angel * Woke up This Morning * Worry, Worry * You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now * You Upset Me Baby.


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Total : 10
Deep Majumdar
Geetanjali Verma
Atiya Samreen
Every person has one or another hobby and if you have any special talent, then you can even make money out of your hobbies. With a bit of planning and a strategic execution of it, you can get money out of your hobbies. Given below are some steps, following which can be beneficial for you:
If you are bad at hobbies, then here are some ideas which you can look at. You can try making these activities a part of your day which can enhance your creative side can be a great pastime.
If you have a love for stars, planets and all other celestial bodies constituting our universe, then you probably should become an astronomer. It can be a challenging career but also one that is highly rewarding. Following are the things you need to know if you wish to become an astronomer.
Leisure days become boring after a point of time and that�s when you need to switch to your hobby. But what if you don�t have a hobby? Listed below are some of the ultimate hobbies for men which can curb their boredom and laziness:
You might have seen some of the magnificent wood artifacts, but do you know you can also try your hand at woodworking? The art-pieces and show-pieces made from wood carving is something which a number of men like to do. In fact, a number of people love to do woodworking and is a part of their hobbies. There are a number of technical schools who are providing special classes for woodworking. If you also have an inclination towards creating something innovative out of plain and simple wood pieces, try a bunch of woodworking activities. Read more about woodworking and other hobbies at https://www.weetjij.com/
You really do not need to actually have a big farm area for cultivation, even a small area of land will suffice. Gardening dates back to good old days and even has a lot of manly history. Even now, a lot of men have a Gentlemen Gardner in them. Not only are you getting the knowledge of various plants, seeds, and entire horticulture but with it, you are also getting closer to nature. With regular gardening, you are becoming more and more self-sufficient. Gardening also acts as meditation as it brings you closer to nature and helps you acquire inner peace. There are a number of benefits of gardening, follow https://www.weetjij.com/ to know more.
Barbeque is somewhat a bliss for the food-enthusiasts. Here are some of the best bbq restaurants in America which are renowned for their specialty in bbqs.
Camping is an escape from the daily routine lives that we are stuck in. There are some of the most breathtaking places in India, where you can go camping. Listed below are some of the places which are recommended the most for backpacking:
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UKB Item Reference: 11641
The Radiance collection from Maki offers you beautiful modern shower enclosure - enjoy peace of mind with immaculate 6mm safety glass, encased in a sleek chrome frame finished in Celtic silver. This contemporary shower enclosure is both practical and eye-catching.
Both recessed or corner doors with matching side panel can be supplied to allow you to complete your bathroom in any situation. Complete with a magnetic seal around the door to ensure a watertight close, this shower door is fully power shower proof. The Radiance Pivot Inline door can be teamed with a 60mm Fineline acrylic capped shower tray with fast flow waste to create the ultimate shower experience. The recessed nature of the design allows you to maximise the existing space in your bathroom and at 2007mm high, this shower door allows you to enjoy a spacious recessed enclosure, without feeling boxed in. Also available in left or right handed configurations to provide you with flexibility. Matki Glass Guard Easy Clean protection is also available on special order at an additional charge. Please note that shower fittings shown are not included in the price and are for illustrative purposes only.
We only charge you once for delivery when ordering multiple items, to find out the cost simply add your products to the basket. We dispatch items as soon as possible and we rely on some of the safest couriers in the UK to ensure your order arrives in good condition.
Got a problem with an order? We make returning a product easy, call 01765 694 720 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Then relax, we'll take it from there.
Be the first to review this product and help other shoppers.Leave a Review
We're so confident that our prices are the lowest, where possible we price match any cheaper price you find online.
ukBathrooms.com is one of the country's biggest and longest-running bathroom websites. And because we buy in large quantities and only sell through our website, that means we can offer discounts of up to 50% compared to the high street.
We're so confident in our prices, we include a price match with everything we sell.
In the unlikely event that you find a product cheaper, we'll happily refund the difference. Just make sure that:
For the full terms and conditions, please click here.


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He's coming home, YAYYYYY!!! And believe it or not, he actually surprised me and told me he was still working and had a long drive ahead of him....when he was actually already in Atlanta! What a sweetheart! He definitely scores MAJOR points for this, hah! So, he'll be home in about another 2 hours probably, YAY! I knew there was some reason I loved him....... ;-)
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
1 comments:
- Anonymous said...
yay!-I'm so glad he's home safely!
- May 14, 2009 at 12:27 AM
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Location: This boutique hotel, part of the Heritage Hotel collection, has sat on its perch high in the Waitakere Ranges since the 1950s, first built as a homestead for the Nevill-Jackson family then later added to and developed into accommodation. These days, the hotel - which sits on 29ha of manicured grounds in among the rainforest and is still owned by the Nevill-Jacksons - has 21 rooms. You'll find it at 573 Scenic Drive, but be aware if you're arriving in the dark like we did, spotting it on the right-hand side of the road is a bit of a challenge. Or, you could arrive by helicopter, landing on the onsite heli-pad.
Check-in experience: Very efficient and friendly.
Room: Our digs, No 1, a corner room on the second storey, were right next to the in-house restaurant and spacious and comfortable, with a huge telly, stereo and, best of all, large Juliet balcony overlooking the pool. From the balcony, and the wide panoramic window, we had the most glorious view of the city and Rangitoto - pretty at night but spectacular at first light.
What's in the neighbourhood? Bethells and Piha beaches are nearby.
Exercise: Plenty of opportunities for bush walks in the Waitakeres, and the hotel also has a 20m outdoor swimming pool (not heated), croquet lawn, Swedish dry sauna and even a throwback squash court.
The bed: Cozy.
Bathroom: Slick and modern with a large rain showerhead.
Toiletries: Heritage's own line.
Noise: Thanks to the hotel's long sweeping driveway you're miles from the road so it's really quiet.
Price: Rooms start from $165 and there are a whole bunch of packages worth checking out on its website, from high tea to heli-dining.
Food: Excellent and worth the journey alone. There is a degustation menu but we opted for the award-winning culinary team's a la carte option and had a superb dinner of sesame seared yellowfin tuna, Silver Fern Reserve beef eye fillet, horopito-rubbed Hawkes Bay lamb rump, and warm chocolate brownie.
What's so good about this place? We love how Waitakere Estate references its heritage, our favourite part of which is the Kauri Lounge and bar which could be transplanted from a Wes Anderson film. This has a big fireplace, lush velvet furnishings and rough stone walls, and feels almost unchanged since the 1960s. Up a spiral staircase is an organ (!) and a collection of retro magazines and books.
Perfect for: A weekend retreat from the city if you're a fan of old-fashioned charm and a retro vibe, with plenty of modern touches.
Would I return? I'd love to get a group together and host a fondue party in that incredible lounge in front of a roaring fire, while drinking whisky and wearing a kaftan or a skivvy with a nice pair of slacks.
Waitakere Estate is at 573 Scenic Drive, Waitarua, Auckland. Phone: (09) 814 9622.


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The domain name 365miner.com is for sale
You will get:
- Domain name: 365miner.com
- Logo design
- Design concepts (view)
Keep mining round the clock with this dynamic brand name,
TLD Excellent
365miner.com is a .com domain. Dot com domains are the most valued top-level-domain in the world, famously used by websites like facebook.com or instagram.com. When you own a .com domain name, it is much easier to get ranked in search engines like google.com
Length Good
Buy 365miner.com
Domain name branding ideas
- Bitcoin mining pool
- Mining company
- Investment firm
- Mining equipment provider
- eCommerce website
- Cryptocurrency news site
KeywordsBitcoin Bitcoin Mining Blockchain Btc Business Crypto Crypto Mining Cryptocurrency Digital Currency Ethereum Finance Financial Miner Mining Virtual Currency Cryptocurrency Mining Btc Mining
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Make an offer for 365miner.com
We will contact the seller on your behalf and get back to you.
What our clients are saying
Alex Strickland
Justin K. Garcia
Theresa E. Lee


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Stand out, don't fit in. We want you to look on the outside like you run on the inside. Our experienced and creative designers will help create a visual identity for your brand that is consistent with your overall goals, benefits and values.
From the start of the logo design process to the end, we'll work closely with you to create or reinvigorate your brand. From beautiful logo design, to a full custom branding and package kit, we'll use our creative skill set to deliver you an iconic brand identity.


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Maitland Fitzturgis and his sister, Sylvia Fleming, travel from Ireland for his official acceptance by the family as Adeline's husband. Finch and Maurice also return, and Maurice brings with him his own problematic affairs of the heart. It quickly becomes one of the most fateful years that Jalna has known, and the story ends with more than one peal of the wedding bells.
Alayne turned from the mirror to Renny.
Do I look all right? she asked, with an odd little smile, as though she deprecated her interest in her appearance at this moment. And she added, "Not that he'll have any eyes for me.
Renny moved back a step to have a better look at her. It had been a distress to him when her beautiful hair, very fair, which she had worn long, had, in the space of a few years, turned silvery white. He had always admired her hair. He had liked the way it flew up, following her hairbrush, not wavy but so full of life. For a time he had avoided looking at the white hair, as though it were some kind of disfigurement that had descended upon her. People had remarked how distinguished she looked with that silvery French roll up the back of her head, but he still had looked the other way. Then one day, less than a year ago, she had suddenly appeared before him with her hair cut short and curled all over her head. He had given her an outraged look — how had she dared have her hair cut without consulting him? Then he had looked again, had been impressed by the charm of her new aspect, the jaunty look which never in her young days had she worn. He liked it, and, with his eyebrows still expressing outrage, he had given her a grin of approval.
Now he said,
He'll have eyes for you all right. A man usually takes a good look at his future mother-in-law.
She gave a shrug of impatience.
Don't say that, please. This affair may well fade into nothing before he's been here a week.
Not if I know Adeline.
Renny, how can you know her, any more than she can know herself? She likes to think she is the reincarnation of your grandmother — a woman of one great love — but remember how young she is. Twenty!
Would she know better if she were twenty-five?
Did you?
Alayne flushed.
You need not have reminded me of that, she said.
I didn't mean to hurt you. Only to remind you that the great age of twenty-five is not always infallible.
She put a hand on either side of his head, drew it down, and kissed him. She said,
When I met you I could not help myself. She turned then and began briskly to tidy the things on her dressing-table.
He looked at his watch.
The train is due, he said, then added, with a touch of chagrin,
Funny Adeline didn't want me to go with her to meet him.
I think it was only natural. Those first moments together w ill be something just for them. Perhaps a little embarrassing, and an outsider would have made it worse.
Me an outsider! he exclaimed in astonishment.
You're outside their love.
I wish to God, he said,
that Adeline had fancied someone I know. One thing is certain: she can't go back to Ireland with him. He'll have to settle down here.
That's what he wants, he says.
Staring out of the window, Renny said, with his back to her:
Alayne, for some reason I suspect this Fitzturgis. I can't bring myself to like the thought of him.
She made a little ironic sound against her lipstick.
You'd feel just the same about any man Adeline was engaged to.
No. I deny that. I shouldn't feel like this if it were Maurice.
Of course you wouldn't. Maurice is her cousin — one of the family. I do believe that if you had your way all the cousins would marry each other. How would it end? With inbreeding. You don't do that with livestock, do you?
He argued, for the sake of arguing,
There's something in knowing the background of one's son-in-law.
Well, Adeline has told us quite a lot about him. His mother is a garrulous widow — his sister rather odd — his land unproductive.
Are you trying to reassure me? Renny exclaimed.
It's just my pessimistic way.
You don't relish this any more than I do!
She was silent a moment and then answered,
I think Adeline is terribly vulnerable.
He did not like this conception of their daughter.
She is made of good stuff, he said.
Of course she is, but she's very inexperienced; and this Fitzturgis — well, you know what he's been through.
Married and divorced, you mean.
Renny gave a sudden bark of laughter. He said,
Think how inexperienced I was! And you'd been married and divorced.
He had known before he said this that it would annoy her but had not been able to stop himself.
It's in such bad taste, she said.
That's what I mind.
I never was in good taste, was I? he grieved.
In a tone of the most extreme politeness she said,
I think we had better go downstairs. It will be easier to meet them there, don't you agree?
I agree to anything, he returned.
She looked at him coolly. She thought:
You are in one of your unashamed bad-boy moods, but you will find no response in me. She asked,
Is Uncle Nicholas resting?
In bed. He wants Fitzturgis brought up to his room before he settles down for the night.
Dear me — I hope it won't be too much for him.
Too much! Not a bit of it. It was a part of his protectiveness towards his old uncle that he would not acknowledge the deterioration of his heart. He followed Alayne down the stairs to the drawing-room, where tea was laid. The windows were open and the summer breeze was warm.
Renny cast an appraising glance about the room.
Everything looks shining, he said, and put his nose into a bowl of roses.
Their son Archer came into the room. He was a tall boy of nearly sixteen, with a high forehead and clear light eyes. He hid his feeling of superiority toward almost everyone else beneath a retiring manner. He never smiled.
Now, looking over the tea-table, he remarked in his clear incisive voice,
I suppose we're to starve while Adeline collects the Irishman.
Surely, Archer, said his mother,
you wouldn't have us begin without our guest. She looked at him dubiously. She had fervently hoped that Archer would be like her father. Now ironically she found him rather too much like her father — an exaggeration of his less attractive qualities, with the gentleness, the politeness, left out, and in their place some disconcerting qualities of the Whiteoaks.
Archer said,
Probably by the time we've seen this Fitzturgis we'll not want our tea. Archer was a confirmed tea drinker, caring little for coffee, disliking milk, abhorring lemonade, ginger ale, Coca-Cola, and all soft drinks. Surreptitiously he had sampled the contents of every decanter on the sideboard and passed a cool judgment thereon, in favour of port wine.
In a moment of nervous horseplay Renny reached for his son, intending to ruffle his hair, but Archer eluded him, placing the tea-table between them.
Wragge, the houseman, appeared in the doorway. After thirty years in Canada his cockney accent still was crisp and confident. When he arrived, having been Renny Whiteoak's batman in the First World War, he had looked old for his age. Now he looked young for it.
He said, particularly addressing Renny, which he invariably did as if no others were present,
I thought you'd like to know, sir, that the train 'as been 'eard to whistle.
Good, said Renny, looking as though it were the reverse of good.
They'll soon be here.
A step was heard in the hall, and Wragge moved aside, with the air of making way for a personage, to allow Renny's sister, Meg Vaughan, to enter. She was two years older than he, a stout widow of sixty-six, and in great contrast to him, for while her face was smooth and the curve of her lips retained the sweetness of her girlhood, his thin weather-beaten face was strongly lined, marked by endurance and fortitude, and his thick red hair that grew to a point on his forehead showed scarcely a grey hair, while hers was of a fine iron-grey and naturally curly. Her movements were slow, while his had an incisive swiftness. It was the same with their speech.
Now she said,
I simply could not resist dropping in to see the Irish fiancé. How excited Adeline must be! I'm sympathetic to her, you know, but… She waited till Wragge was out of hearing, then added,
If only it might have been Maurice.
That's just the way I feel, said Renny, putting her into a comfortable chair.
She smiled at Alayne and put out a hand to Archer as though she would draw him toward her, but with a frosty glance he avoided it.
Meg said, noting Alayne's expression,
I know I shouldn't have said that in front of the boy. But you'll forget what Aunty Meg said, won't you, dear?
"That is lex non scripta,
he returned, dropping into Latin in an irritating way he had. But it did not irritate his aunt and she exclaimed admiringly, How clever Archer is! He picks up dead languages the way the other boys pick up slang."
You can say that again, Aunty, said Archer.
Archer! reproved his mother. His father once more stretched out a hand to rumple him and again Archer eluded it.
Desultory talk prolonged rather than shortened the period of waiting. Renny Whiteoak consulted his watch every three minutes. Archer surreptitiously felt the temperature of the teapot. Meg sighed and remembered her personal worries. Alayne was the first to hear the approaching car.
It appeared now on the smoothly raked gravel sweep, and all four in the room peered from the shelter of the window curtains to have their first glimpse of the visitor.
Oh, he's good-looking, exclaimed Meg in relief, for she attached much importance to looks,
but less tall than I had expected.
Archer remarked,
A little short in the leg for the breadth of the shoulder.
A well-built fellow, said Renny, his appraising glance moving swiftly from Fitzturgis to the glowing face of Adeline. She had waited two years for the coming of this man. That she should be happy in the reunion was what mattered above all else.
Happiness shone from the burnished copper of her hair to her light step as she led the way into the house. The spaniel, the bulldog, and the little Cairn terrier greeted the pair noisily in the porch. Fitzturgis bent to pat them and called each by name, for Adeline had so often talked of them and written of them. But, for all her glow of happiness, she was nervously excited too. Her pallor showed it and the swift glance almost of entreaty which she gave the group that now had come into the hall.
Welcome to Jalna, said Renny, shaking the young Irishman's hand.
Meg, Alayne, and Archer in turn greeted him: Meg with warmth; Alayne with calm relief, for she liked his looks better than she had expected; Archer with suspicion.
Did you have a good crossing? enquired Meg.
Almost too good, answered Fitzturgis.
The Atlantic was much smoother than your lake.
And the railway journey — was it comfortable?
Fairly. But very long. And very hot.
Alayne put in,
You must be quite ready for tea. She moved to the tea-table, Archer close after her. He felt the teapot. He said, in a stage whisper,
He'd probably prefer whisky.
Fitzturgis answered,
Thank you, but I like tea.
Renny said,
I'll go up with you to your room first.
Thanks. I should like to wash my hands.
The two men, with a purposeful air, left the room.
May I have my tea now? asked Archer.
His mother, in desperation, poured it.
Well, Adeline demanded eagerly,
what do you think of him?
He's most attractive, said Meg.
Such a sweet smile. And something a little sad in him too.
I'm sure I shall like him, Alayne agreed.
Adeline drew a deep sigh of happiness and relief.
I can scarcely believe it's all over, she said.
The waiting, I mean.
There are worse things than waiting, said Archer, putting a third lump of sugar in his tea.
Really, you are a pest, Archer, Adeline said hotly.
What can you know about waiting?
I know about cold tea, he returned.
Adeline asked of her aunt,
Why didn't Patience come?
Patience was Meg's daughter, an only child, four years older than Adeline. But with her lived also the daughter of her dead brother Eden. To this younger girl, Roma, Meg was as a mother. She now answered for both girls:
Patience thought it would be confusing for the young man to meet so many of us at once. Roma went off somewhere with her boyfriend. A shadow crossed Meg's face as she spoke, though she tried to look cheerful.
Adeline said,
It would not have been confusing to have Patience here. I do want her and Mait to meet.
He'd likely prefer Roma, observed Archer.
Archer, how can you say such things? exclaimed Meg, hurt.
Under a frivolous exterior I conceal a great deal of sagacity, he returned.
One thing you can't hide is your conceit, said Adeline.
He helped himself to a cress sandwich.
I don't try, he answered.
I have so much to be conceited about.
Upstairs Maitland Fitzturgis had washed his hands and run a comb through his curly mouse-coloured hair. As he and Renny were passing the closed door of a bedroom Renny said,
In there is my Uncle Nicholas. You'll meet him later. Goes to bed early. He's very old.
He's still living, is he? Fitzturgis said as though surprised.
Renny stopped stock still to exclaim,
Do you mean to say that Adeline doesn't mention him in her letters?
Now I come to think of it, she has.
I hope he takes to you, Renny said doubtfully.
We set a good deal of store by his opinion here.
I shall look forward to meeting him.
Hungry though she was, Adeline was too much excited to enjoy her tea. What for two years she had been straining toward had actually come to pass. There was her lover at Jalna, sitting among her own people — her mother pouring a second cup of tea for him — her father offering him a cigarette — her Auntie Meg giving him that sweet maternal smile. It seemed almost too good for belief. She was glad that there were not many of the clan present at this first meeting, and yet she was impatient for him to meet them all, to be approved by all and to voice his admiration of them to her. When Meg had gone and they stood alone together in the porch there came her first opportunity to ask:
Do you like them — him — my father I mean mostly?
Very much, Fitzturgis answered warmly.
I like them all.
Don't you — She found it difficult to find the words she wanted.
Don't you think he's — rather remarkable-looking?
Quite. But it's your mother's looks I admire. She must have been a lovely girl.
She was. She had beautiful fair hair. She's an American — or was, before she was married to Daddy's brother Eden and divorced — before she and Daddy married.
He answered, almost absent-mindedly,
I know. Maurice, I think, told me when we first met… A nice house, this. I like your trees. How old is the house?
It will be a hundred years old before long.
Is that all?
It's not very old, I know, in your country. But here it is quite an age. We're giving a party for the house on its centenary. Isn't it wonderful to think that you and I will be here for it — together!
His answer was to put an arm about her and touch her hair with his lips.
I can't believe in it, he said.
Not yet.
Soon you will, she said happily.
At this moment nothing seems too good to be true. Everything seems possible… Oh, Maitland, I don't know how I lived through these two years. She looked into his face, on a level with her own, trying to see him as others not emotionally bound to him would see him. She could not, but saw him only through the enamoured eyes of her first love.
His mind returned to what had been told him of her mother's marriage to Eden Whiteoak.
Have you ever seen him? he asked.
Your mother's first husband?
I don't remember him. He died when I was very small. He had a daughter, you know — by another marriage. That's Roma. She lives with Auntie Meg.
You've something against her, haven't you? he asked abruptly.
Goodness, no. Then she added, just as abruptly,
Yes, I have. And you may as well know it. Now, at the beginning, before you meet them all. She took his hand and led him down the steps of the porch, across the lawn and along the path toward the stables.
I'll tell you as we go to see the horses, she said,
and then — no more about it.
He sniffed the sweet-smelling air.
What a lovely spot! he exclaimed.
Gratified, even more than if he had praised her, Adeline said, "Isn't it! We're thankful that Jalna isn't near the development schemes. And with five hundred acres we're pretty safe."
What about Roma? he asked, as though the subject fascinated him.
Well, you've just heard about her, haven't you?
I've been hearing about her for two years.
She opened her eyes at him.
Really? Not from me, surely.
Yes. You often mentioned her in your letters. You probably have no idea how often.
I'm surprised because I didn't know I was a bit interested in Roma. And I wasn't — not till she did this thing to Patience.
Adeline spoke with some heat now.
Don't pretend, Mait, that you don't know who Patience is.
Ah, yes — she's your Aunt Meg's daughter. I remember. There are a good many of you, you know.
They were almost at the stables. Adeline said hurriedly:
Patience is a darling. We all love her. She's not pretty. She's rather too big and a little clumsy-looking but perfectly lovely with animals. She has a regular job on the farm, helping Uncle Piers. He says she's better with an ailing young one than any man.
She sounds a good sort, said Fitzturgis tranquilly.
Oh, she is! She's wonderful. Adeline halted and looked him in the eyes, her own shadowed by puzzlement at what she disclosed.
Then Roma did this thing to her.
What? He was almost smiling at her, she looked so young, so beautiful, so almost distraught.
Roma took the boy Patience was in love with.
Fitzturgis's raised brows, the curve of his full lips, seemed to say,
Is that all?
Adeline exclaimed,
Well, it was enough, wasn't it?
Were Patience and the man engaged?
Not quite but almost. She adored him. Anyone could see that. And then Roma just reached out and took him. His name is Green.
Hm… what sort of fellow is he?
Adeline's lip curled in scorn.
You can imagine, can't you? One who'd let himself be taken in by Roma. Weak as water — but Patience loved him. She was ready to devote her whole life to him.
Did she tell you that?
Anyone could see it. Not that she went about ogling him or casting sheep's eyes at him. She just gave one the feeling that she loved him with all her might… Now I've told you let's not talk about it any more.
Good, he returned tranquilly. His eyes swept over the fine buildings of the stables.
Your horses are well housed, he said.
Adeline's eyes shone in pride.
They have everything, she declared.
We may go without. Not they. Half shyly, yet with an impulse not to be resisted, she caught his hand in hers.
Do you think you will like living here, Mait? she asked.
It would be a strange person who wouldn't, he returned, his fingers tightening on hers.
Why, it's hard to believe that there's a town within a hundred miles. It's hard to believe that yesterday I was in New York.
And I've never asked you how your family are — your mother and sister!
Mother is well. Sylvia is much better.
And they're going to live in New York?
One of the doors of the stables opened and a man of about forty-five came out. He hesitated on seeing them, then strode on to meet them, walking with firmness and confidence considering that he had lost a leg in the war. Indeed his whole aspect was one of firmness and confidence, owing something possibly to the fullness of his clear blue eyes, the healthy pink and white of his smooth cheeks and the stubborn curve of his lips.
Oh, Adeline cried eagerly,
here comes Uncle Piers. You will like him. Fitzturgis inspected him with interest as he approached, trying to discover some resemblance to this man's son who lived not far from Fitzturgis in Ireland, but he could discover none. Maurice Whiteoak was as different from his father as he well could be.
Uncle Piers, Adeline's voice trembled a little from excitement,
this is Maitland. There's no need, is there, for me to tell you his surname?
How do you do, Mr. Fitzturgis Piers said a little stiffly, shaking hands with him.
After a few moments of talk Piers turned back into the stables with them. In here it was cooler than out in the sun-warmed air. Two stable-men were bedding down the horses for the night. There was the scent of clean straw and the pleasant smell of well-groomed horseflesh. A benign and contented atmosphere permeated the stables. For the farm horses the day's work was over. For those darlings, the saddle horses, had come the pleasant reward of exercise or the agreeable return to loose box after freedom in the paddock. Adeline was eager to show Fitzturgis her own mare, Bridget, with her first colt, Bridie's Boy. They were in a loose-box together; the son, inheritor of his mother's beauty, stood proudly beside her. Both bent their heads to nuzzle Adeline when she entered the box. The sight of her, with the mare and her colt, made Piers smile at Fitzturgis.
A pretty trio, he said.
A very promising trio, Fitzturgis admiringly agreed.
Come in, cried Adeline.
She's as kind as can be and so proud of her son.
When Piers Whiteoak stopped his car on his own driveway some time later he saw his wife planting seedlings in the flower border. She sat back on her heels and raised her dark eyes expectantly to his face.
Well, she asked,
did you meet him?
Yes, but only for a short while in the stables. Adeline had brought him to see the horses.
Why, Piers, she exclaimed, disappointed,
I thought you would have gone to the house for tea and had a good look at him.
Good Lord, how long do you think it takes me to size a man up?
Did you like him?
He seems a nice fellow.
Quite. Likes horses but doesn't know much about them.
Pheasant thrust her trowel into the earth, folded her arms and demanded,
Does he strike you as good enough for Adeline?
I'll tell you that when I'm acquainted with him.
Of course. I suppose it was a silly question… Piers, did he mention Maurice?
Yes, though I gather they don't see much of each other.
I thought Maurice might have come over with him. He promised, you know.
He'll come later.
A silence fell between them, as so often happened when they spoke of their eldest son. Piers and this son had never got on well together. Not that there had been open conflict between them. Rather it had been that when they were in the house together there was unease in the atmosphere. In her secret mind Pheasant had accused Piers of being unfair to Maurice. She had never quite forgiven Piers for sending the boy to Ireland at the whim of an old cousin, Dermot Court, even though that visit had made Maurice Dermot's heir. Maurice's future had been settled for him. He was a well-off, idle young man. Piers envied him his affluence and deplored his idleness. Almost two years had passed since they had seen their eldest-born.
Pheasant patted the earth about the last of the annual stocks.
I'm late getting them planted, she said.
But then I'm always late getting things done.
You undertake too much, he said, almost roughly, and, putting his hands beneath her arms, lifted her to her feet. He bent his face to hers and kissed her. He said,
If Adeline and her Irishman get along as well as we do there's no need to worry. He kissed her again, this time with an amorousness produced by congenial work in the outdoors and the springing, effulgent warmth of the summer. She relaxed against his shoulder, forgetting everything but her love for him.
But their loverlike attitudes were an embarrassment to their youngest son Philip, who, returning from a day's fishing, cleared his throat loudly to announce his arrival.
Hullo, Mum and Dad, he called out.
Are you too busy to see what I've caught?
His parents separated and strolled toward him. He displayed a catch of gleaming brook trout.
Oh, lovely, exclaimed Pheasant, then added,
Poor pretty things.
Listen to her, laughed Philip,
pitying fish!
Why not? Think how happy they were swimming about in their cool stream.
Not half so happy as I was to catch them.
Philip was seventeen and had become in the past year, as Alayne said, quite outrageously beautiful. He always had been a handsome boy, but of late the clear fairness of his skin, the sheen of his hair, his heavy-lidded azure eyes, the perfection of his features, all had been intensified. As he had grown in stature, so he had grown in beauty. Piers, looking at him now, thought he was, as Pheasant declared, the image of what he had been as a boy, but the truth was that young Philip much more resembled his great-grandfather, Captain Philip Whiteoak. The young Whiteoak males, sons of Renny, Piers, and Finch, appeared to assert, almost arrogantly or at least proudly, the Northern origin of their race: the long narrow-hipped body, the long flat cheek, the fair skin.
I stopped in at Jalna, Philip said,
and left a couple of trout for Uncle Renny's breakfast.
Good, said Piers, but he spoke without heart. Philip's devotion to Renny was rather irritating to Piers. The boy would take trouble for Renny that at home would be unthinkable.
Pheasant looked at her son charitably, as she did at all males. She asked,
Did you see Adeline's Irishman?
No, but we're all invited there this evening to inspect him.
Good God! exclaimed a voice just emerging from the house.
A gathering of the clan to greet the betrothed of the fair daughter of the house! What does he bring as an offering? Six head of lean cattle from the Kerry hills or a litter of starving pigs?
The owner of the voice, a particularly pleasant one, now appeared. He was the second son, three years older than Philip. He had been christened Finch; but as that name belonged to another of the family, he had been, for some inexplicable reason, called Nooky, which childish name was later shortened to Nook. He was an art student and already several of his pictures had been shown in small exhibitions.
This was Piers's favourite son. He condoned in Nook what would have seemed intolerable in Maurice. In truth he was proud of Nook's artistic bent. He liked his pictures. Piers could bear a good deal from his sons (or thought he could) provided they did not write poetry. He had allowed Nook to turn the old carriage house into a studio. He looked tolerantly on the paint-stained smock in which Nook now appeared. But he was no longer to be called by any childish nickname. It would have been impossible for a painter of ambition to live down such a name, he said, and the family agreed. He must have a name of some dignity as signature to his pictures. What of his real name
Finch? That was already borne by the uncle for whom he was named. Finch Whiteoak was a concert pianist. His name was well known on this continent and abroad. It would be confusing to have two Finch Whiteoaks in the world of art. It would create, in the first instance, a spurious interest in the younger, and later might well be an impediment to him. But what was Nook to call himself? He had been given only the one Christian name. One Christian name! As he remarked this, on a note of reproach to his parents, he had a sudden idea.
I have it! he exclaimed.
I shall call myself Christian. And then added,
With your permission, of course. For though Nook always took his own way he took it so politely that Piers and Pheasant were under the impression that, of all their children, he was the most dutiful and considerate of them. Whereas young Philip had an air of demanding what he wanted, which frequently set Piers against it.
So when Nook had suggested calling himself Christian Piers had only remarked,
An odd sort of name for a Whiteoak.
Surely no odder than Finch, said his son.
I guess I made a mistake in naming you after my brother Finch, said Piers,
but at the time it seemed a good idea. For one thing he'd lately had a fortune left him.
That was a pretty good reason, but what was the other?
Well, he was and is a decent sort of fellow.
Nook agreed.
I like that reason best. I've always admired Uncle Finch, but I don't believe he'd thank me for setting out to distinguish myself under his name.
Anyhow, said Pheasant,
he'll scarcely make you his heir when he has a son of his own.
Just the same, said Piers,
he might do more for Nook, if Nook didn't take another name.
On the other hand, put in the boy,
he might be induced to pay me for changing it.
Pheasant said,
You wouldn't be disgracing the name if you painted good pictures.
Piers looked judicial and added,
No one in the public eye wants another of the same name in it.
You speak, said Pheasant,
as though people in the public eye were motes.
Nook asked,
Has anyone any objection to Christian as a name?
"It's too much like Pilgrim's Progress," said Piers.
Then there are the kings of Denmark, said his wife, preferring kings to pilgrims.
I think I can get used to it in time.
Do you object, Dad? Nook would not go openly against the grain of the family.
Do you think Uncle Renny will object?
Piers at once became brusque.
It's not for him to say.
But it would do no harm to ask him, said Pheasant.
I'm quite willing. I mean I have nothing against Christian. That ought to be enough for Nook.
"And we can still call you Nooky in private, can't