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Showing results for tags 'Vignette'.
Found 18 results
20 ways to create a vignette with Affinity Photo
dmstraker posted a topic in Tutorials (Serif and Customer Created Tutorials)Just as an exercise, I decided to explore ways to create vignettes with Affinity Photo. I stopped after identifying 20 methods. Attached are my notes for your pleasure. Affinity photo Vignette V1.pdf
Using brush tool on vignette live filter make APhoto crash
Uncle Mez posted a topic in Photo Beta on MacLike the title say it is simple. I applied a vignette live filter and started to erase excess using brush tool with black color but APhoto crashed, it did happened twice on a normal JPEG file. Maybe it is a known bug for this beta, would be great to have it fixed. Blessings
Affinity photo CMYK vignette bug
Oddilium posted a topic in (Pre 1.7) Bugs on iPadHi there. When creating a vignette in Affinity Photo, it will only create an additive vignette not a subtractive one in CMYK. I.E. You can't see a vignette against a white background, but you can against a grey one. This only affects CMYK. Not RGB. Cant speak for other colour profiles.
Intensity control for automatic vignetting correction
Pšenda posted a topic in Feedback for Affinity Photo on DesktopIf the photo has all four corners bright, and the vignetting becomes evenly dimmed, the automatic correction is successful. However, if some corners are dark, the automatic correction is unsuccessful - it causes unnatural lightening of the dark corners, and must be turned off. Like this Therefore, it would be advisable to allow adjustment of the correction intensity in individual corners.
Can I edit PNG files?
Patrick Bell posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)I am trying to add a vignette to a png. I can make it black and white but however I apply the vignette nothing happens to the image. Is it because its a png?
Johny's Power Vignette (TUTORIAL)
Jakerlund posted a topic in Tutorials (Serif and Customer Created Tutorials)This is a way to do a little more creative vignette effect. You get lots of control over how and where you want the effect. If you've made it on one picture you can simply copy it to other images. Cheers :)
[APh] Adjustable Vignette Center
MelG posted a topic in Older Feedback & Suggestion PostsWould love to be able to adjust where to place the center of my vignette, using the Live Vignette filter. Often the area to emphasized is not in the center of the image.
Vignette exporting problem
dmstraker posted a topic in (Pre 1.7) Bugs on WindowsOdd problem. Edit image, including adding a vignette as follows: Black rectangle over image. White curved rectangle over black rectangle. Gaussian blur on white rectangle. Group black and white rectangles. Blend mode of group: Multiply. Reduce opacity of black rectangle. Here's Affinity window: Then export. Now the vignette is not properly shown -- curved rectangle is square and gaussian blur is gone. However, if I export at a lower resolution (1000 px wide), it works properly: Original image is 42mpx, taken with Sony A7R2. I tried uploading it but the forum doesn't like big files.
[Fixed] Post-crop vignette position off in Photo
Peter Werner posted a topic in (Pre 1.7) MacOS resolved threadsIf you load a photo into Photo, then crop it using the crop tool to a part in the middle of the image (without deleting the pixels outside the document boundaries), then go into the Develop persona and apply a post-crop vignette, the center of said vignette seems to be located outside the image bounds. In my test, it was located to the left of the document. The original image was rather wide (intended for use as a Facebook cover image) and then cropped to square. Version 1.4.2 (AppStore release build) on OS X 10.9.5.
Vignette when processing raw files
iandreams posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)Just got AP and first impressions are v good (previously years of Photoshop use). Tried processing my first raw file however and the image has a dark vignette at the corners. Never had this problem in Photoshop so am initially surprised and at a loss as to what is causing it. Previews ok on my mac. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Apologies if this is posted in wrong section - am first time poster. Also am I correct in assuming there's no direct support, as I just got directed to the forums when I clicked on the support tab? I've attached a small jpeg of the file in question.
Vignetting help please
Allsop posted a topic in Tutorials (Serif and Customer Created Tutorials)I have returned to trying Affinity after quite a while as when I first tried it I just could not work it out, (guess the learning curve was too steep for me back then) but now I am determined to conquer it as I refuse to pay Adobe any more. Bearing this in mind please treat me as a newbie! I lke to apply a vignette to most of my photographs and in Lightroom I had a preset of -11 to do it with a click of a button but I am bewildered how to do this in Affinity, I can't even find a vignetting tool! Also can anyone point me to where I can learn about presets in Affinity please? Many thanksl for any help. Cheers.
Vignettes on cropped (off-center) images
pbeens posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)Affinity Photo on Windows v 18.104.22.168 I'm attempting to apply a vignette to an image which has been cropped off-center, but when I apply the vignette it is centered on the original photo's center, not on the cropped image's center. See the attached image for details. (The vignette has been exaggerated to highlight the problem.) Am I doing something wrong or have I discovered a bug?
vignette problem
chopperwhite posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)hi I'm new to this and would like some help, I can't get vignette to work on any picture that i import. I've tried putting the live layer above, on and under the background and other layers, nut its just not happening. love some help on this cheers
Post Crop Vignette
gsall posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)I can do 'Post Crop Vignette' but how do I place it where I want?? Göran Sweden
Photo banding
befehr posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)I am getting banding when creating a vignette with a stacked image. I am unclear what to do based on what I have been able to find in help or online.
Affinity Jack Tutorial: Vignette (English Subtitles)
Affinity Jack posted a topic in Tutorials (Serif and Customer Created Tutorials)Hallo, in diesem Affinity Photo Tutorial zeige ich wie man eine Vignette erstellt. Zu den Bildkorrekturen im Vorspann: Wie das geht habe ich im gesonderten Tutorial "Belichtung & Tonwertkorrektur" gezeigt. In this Affinity Photo Tutorial, I show you how to create a vignette. And the previous photo corrections: I did a separate video "Belichtung & Tonwertkorrektur" (aperture & curves). Ciao Jack www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPQVQ0UyfFA www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPQVQ0UyfFA
For Beginners Video ..Possibly switching from Aperture
sonlight posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)Hi, I've been using Aperture for several years, but need to replace it with a new photo editor. I downloaded the trial of Affinity and wanted to try out the program before buying it. I'm watching the For Beginners video on Vimeo and trying to duplicate the actions on my own photo. I got to the Inpainting Brush and Vignette, but nothing happens when I try to apply them to the photo. I was able to use the other adjustments mentioned before this on the video. What happened?
Can Vignette Filter Center be placed
MelG posted a topic in Affinity on Desktop Questions (Mac and Windows)I've been playing around with the vignette filter in AP and am wondering if it is possible to move the clear part of the vignette to somewhere other than the center of the image. Is there some kind of work-around that I can use? Thanks


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Do you find yourself wishing that things were different in your life? Do you want a more important or satisfying job, a larger paycheck, a closer relationship? Perhaps you have a wish of finding happiness within yourself or being more hopeful about the future?
We look for solutions to life's problems from outside sources. Statistics show that 85% of Americans and four out of five women suffer from low self-esteem. A search on Amazon for books on Happiness results in over 100,000 choices. Self-improvement is a $9.9 billion industry, according to Market Research in January 2018.
You might subscribe to podcasts and emails, buy self-help books and audio classes. Or you may pay high prices to hear celebrity motivational speakers and attend their public workshops. And you may hire personal coaches and invest in their year-long training programs. You are searching for a better life and coming up short most of the time and not finding happiness within yourself.
We are unhappy and dissatisfied because we envision a life that is much better than the one we are living. We fear that we may never get there. When we give up looking for happiness outside ourselves and embrace finding happiness from within, that's when life begins to improve.
A few years ago, I discovered the book "An Untethered Soul" by Michael Singer. It stunned me to find it on the New York Times Bestseller rack at Barnes and Noble. This book was profound for me in its telling of how human beings live in a state of unconsciousness.
We listen to the mind-chatter of fearful and resistant thoughts. It took time to process the concept, but I realized that just because I thought it didn't make it true! I had thoughts about all the mistakes I'd made and fears about the ones I would make in the future. There were thoughts of rejection, how undeserving I was, and fears of failure and success. I believe all those unhelpful beliefs, but it turned out they were silly thoughts in my head! Most of what I worried about and feared never came true anyway. Some of it did, but not in the way I thought it would. What an awakening!
A few years later, I read Michael Singer's next book, "The Surrender Experiment". That book talks about his commitment to allowing his life to unfold on a path of its choosing. When an opportunity arrived in his life, he listened to his resistant thoughts and then said yes anyway. Far more than "feel the fear and do it anyway," he realized that the best life for him was the one he didn't try to control!
Michael Singer gave up resisting and trying to control his life. He found that life delivers opportunities for a rich and fulfilling life every day! Opportunities that resulted in a much more meaningful life than the one he thought he would have. The only thing that was necessary to do was to give up his resistance and fearful thinking and say yes to going through each doorway as it came.
I've never met Michael, but his life story continues to transform my life. Over the past few years, I've practiced becoming aware of my resistance to how my life evolves. I see how much my ego, and its unending desire for attention, approval, and commitment to being right, has been the main reason for my pain and suffering. When I try to control my life, I think I know what's best, and that I'm supposed to be someone and have certain things. These thoughts turn out to be the biggest blunders in my life. The less I listen to my irrational thoughts of resistance, and the more I trust the evolution of my life, the happier, and more successful, I become. Ignore the resistance and trust the evolution of your life and you can get even closer to finding happiness within yourself.
We are alive today because the powerful force we call God gave us the gift of life, in this time and place. We are here to experience our soul's journey. Period. Whatever happens to us, good or bad, our soul needs to experience everything it does as it seeks a connection with source. I'm not a theologian, but many believe our journey through life is our soul's journey back to where we came from. I think we all feel that desire deep inside, but the elements of our external life distract us from acting on this deep core knowing. Perhaps that's why sitting in silence regularly is the best way to listen to the whispers of where we should go next.
Have you ever found yourself somewhere and wondering how you ended up there on your path to finding happiness within yourself. We seem surprised when we arrive at someplace good, and so we call it luck. We are prone to thinking that most of what happens to us will be difficult or turn out bad. So when something great happens, we think it's an anomaly.
What if everything that happened to you was what's meant to happen and is all part of finding happiness within yourself. And what if everything great that happens to you is also a part of your soul's journey to finding happiness within yourself; and even the bad things too! What if you think about if that were true and try it on. If you let go of your resistance to saying yes to the opportunities that arrive in your day, what do you think would happen? And isn't it at least 50% possible that your life might improve?
I can tell you, for sure, that my life improves every day that I remember to live with no resistance. I embrace that each new choice, each new mistake, each new invitation is a sign that I should follow. Sometimes I notice that I want to control someone or change an outcome. I take a moment to remind myself that my way may not be the best way. In fact, when I allow my curiosity to take flight, I experience a thrilling sense of adventure. I wonder with glee, "I wonder how this will turn out!"
Here is my advice to you. Start today. Learn how to give up resisting your life. Give in to the spectacular adventure that you should be on. When you feel yourself resisting, and when you want to say no out of fear, that is you resisting your life. THIS is the source of your suffering. It isn't the pain from your mistakes or disappointment over the things that didn't work out as you planned. Embrace everything that happens from this day forward as part of your soul's journey to finding happiness within yourself. Live in gratitude that you are along for the ride.

subset: commoncrawl


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Louisburg Farm's summer season kicked off at Old Salem Horse Show in May. Our rider Molly Ashe had solid rounds that placed in the top 10 in multiple divisions, including the $50,000 Old Salem National Grand Prix, with our string of horses: Whistler, Kastriogui Z, Picobello Choppin PC, Astakkato, Balous Day Date and Cat Ballou. Molly and Whistler finished in 3rd in the $35,000 Grand Prix of North Salem during the second week of Old Salem
"We got him [Whistler] at the beginning of the Florida circuit and he had some time off for an injury before that," Molly said of the 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding. "I started him in the schooling jumpers in Florida and did a few 1.45-meter classes and one 1.50-meter at the end of the season. Last week was his first time back since WEF. He has all the ability in the world, we just have to keep getting him fit.
In June, Molly and Balous Day Date rode to victory in the $34,000 Friends of the Meadows Cup at Spruce Meadows. They were fast and double clear in an 11-horse jump off out of an original start list of 67 entries.
"She is feisty," Molly said of her mount following the win. "She is a great horse. She is a trier and she is a fighter. She is very sure of who she is, and she is just one of those point and shoot, super fun horses to ride. She does not want to touch the jumps, and she naturally knows how to get out of the way, so you just have to not get in her way. Her technique is incredible. I have to thank Louisburg Farm and Beth Johnson for the opportunity to ride her."
"We sort of made a mistake the first week and put her in the big 1.55-meter competition. Then we backed off a little bit to make sure she did not lose her confidence," Molly added. "I think we got everything back to where it should be. She feels solid as a rock now, so back we go in the big ring next week.
"I think the 1.45-meter is very comfortable for her now. She still does not have a lot of experience with the big guns, but she is getting there. She is learning to go faster. Today she was right there and I think she got it because she was so smooth. She jumped great."
Also at Spruce, Cocq a Doodle finished 3rd in the $1,000 Direct Energy Welcome 1.35-meter, and Kastriogui Z finished 4th in the $1,000 Friends of the Meadows Welcome. The 7-year-old Picobello Choppin PC won the Direct Energy 1.35-meter Open Class, and Cat Ballou had a top 10 finish in the PwC Cup.
From Spruce, the Louisburg team continued on to Angelstone Tournaments in Ontario, Canada. Picobello Choppin and Astakkato finished 3rd and 6th, respectively, in a 1.35-meter class. Molly and Balous Day Date were 5th in the $84,000 Grand Prix.
At the CSI4* Hampton Classic, Molly and Balous Day Date placed 3rd in the $10,000 Open Jumper 1.45-meter class. Molly and Cat Ballou finished 9th in the $50,000 Douglas Elliman Grand Prix Qualifier. Molly and her Nutmeg Group's Cocq a Doodle earned 3rd place in the $40,000 Longines Cup.
The American Gold Cup saw the successful return to competition by Diamond of Picobello Z. She hadn't shown much since February after a minor injury and won 1st place in a 1.30-meter class. Cat Ballou earned a place on the start list for the $215,000 Longines FEI World Cup Qualifier with an 11th place finish in the $85,000 American Gold Cup Qualifier.
Balous Day Date competed in the $125,000 New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix CSI2* and jumped great in the first round, but with just one fence down, she was just out of the jump off.
Cat Ballou spent a couple days in New York City at the Central Park Horse Show, and under the light, he placed 11th place in the $40,000 opening speed class and finished 6th in the CSI3* $212,000 Rolex U.S. Open Grand Prix.
The final show for Louisburg Farm's summer was the CSI3* Bourbon International at Split Rock, where Cat Ballou and Molly took 3rd place in the $35,000 Amalaya Speed Cup. Molly and Balous Day Date were 5th in the $100,000 Grand Prix at Split Rock.
And as the cherry on top of a spectacular 2015 show season, Molly and Balous Day Date were awarded with the "Best Presented at the FEI Jog" award at Split Rock.
Balous Day Date is meticulously cared for by Louisburg Farm groom Ezequiel Remigio. "You could see how proud he was to earn the award – she [Balous Day Date] can do no wrong in his eyes," said Molly.


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PROM 2018 Wrap-Up / Kentucky Photographer
Hi guys!!! It's been about a week since I have released a blog post and that's because this past week, I have been traveling non-stop! Since I finished up prom yesterday, I wanted to release a master post with allllllll of my prom favorites from 2018! I've never done this before, so here's your warning that this a VERY image-heavy post :)
I always loooooooooooove being apart of prom. It was my favorite thing in high school, except not the actually going to prom part, but the part where I got to see all of my friends dressed to the nines and carefree, for one night. So, I'm so happy that my job allows me to revisit one of my favorite times of life :) Each girl I had the pleasure of photographing, WAS DROP. DEAD. GORGEOUS and all of the fella's were DAPPER! I had 14 prom sessions this year and I'm so thankful for all of you who trusted me to be apart of your day!
p.s. if you are a Class of 2019 senior, you can save 20% on your senior collection when you book a Fall/Spring session THIS WEEK! Feel free to click here to view our senior collections or to request a detailed senior guide with more information! :)


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Vanbot is the unsigned sparkling synth-pop siren Ester Ideskog. Residing in Stockholm, she is clearly the robust and formidable challenger to Robyn's unanimous and widely accepted title as Sweden's electro-pop angel. Inspired by bike rides around Stockholm at night and labelling herself as driven by "determined purposefulness" and "DIY Spirit", there is absolutely no denying this charming young artist has the right ingredients for eventual and deserved success. Working diligently in a little studio with producer Sebastian Forslund, Ester has constructed a polished piece of fantastical music inspiration. The debut album "Vanbot" dropped forth into download territory back in mid-April and was met with a gentile reception. Now, Vanbot needs to fire a powerful volley of sublime electro-pop tunes from the album to target as many avid music lovers out there as possible, piercing bodies hard, enlightening them to the Vanbot name.
"Lost Without You" has been around as long as the debut album's release and is indirectly recognised as one of the more popular songs so far. The track starts off with substantial energy and a hooky chain of sultry synths. The reliable back beat ceaselessly keeps the entire track at a mellow tempo that is reminiscent of stereotypical nineties electro-pop; with almost indistinguishable tinges of Madonna-esque seduction, Ellie Goulding-style youthful exuberance and loaded emotional outpourings that dither and lull about in the background of Ester's overall vocal ensemble. Like Robyn, Vanbot can converge powerful and weighted lyrics together with a glacial cold tone that punctures the auditory senses with precision and efficiency. The song is extremely resourceful and doesn't overindulge in fanciful electro eclecticism that some artists so often fall foul of. "Lost Without You" trickles onwards with humble enthusiasm and simmering energy that culminates into a series of grandiose choruses. The musical composition is frosted with a climatic haze of glistening synths, technological bleeps and wallows met with a plucky beat and haunting vocals making this a perfect track before heading out clubbing; icy puddles on the pavement, neon signs, warming spirits in opaque glasses. Either way, such an excellently sculpted piece of electro-pop perfection can only but conjure up images of Ester, riding around Stockholm on her bike under the clear Nordic sky, stars a-plenty, numbing cold; now that makes "Lost Without You" all rather pleasant, doesn't it.
Check out Vanbot's website, Facebook page and Youtube account and show a little support for this Swedish beauty and her musical prowess.
SPARK - "CRAVE"Next up is another domineering young female solo artist who has the verve and pugnacious attitude entrenched into her music ethos that will surely aid her in chart supremacy soon enough. Spark is the delightfully ferocious Jess Morgan who hails from Walthamstow, North London. Her music credentials are both solid and well revered; winning competitions from all angles of the young musician spectrum. Spark's debut album is crafted by industry maestro Starsmith (Ellie Goulding, Kylie Minogue) and is highly expected to cause a stir amongst critics and experts alike once the Spark movement gets some steam behind it. "Crave" may of been released way back in February as the third single off of the debut album, but this song packs a concrete laden punch, and needs further blog love in order to highlight its masterful work and the genius brains behind it.
"Crave" kicks off with a very Middle-eastern medieval vibe that feels almost disjointed from the rest of the song, but the plethora of musical influences works together with diligent poise and enchanting rapture, excellently subverting the audio expectations associated with ballsy youths in the urban city-scape. Rolling into a droning back beat with intermittent and unnerving wailings from Spark herself that peep through the musical notes, curious donks and grinding thuds, the introduction to the song is constructed with a refreshingly adventurous recipe of pop infused with dubby-electro and urban zest. Morgan's voice is pitch-perfect, vibrant, luxurious and dynamically stable, stealthily weaving between dysfunctional beats and thunderous undertones. The whole package is very LDN-Jessie J-Clare Maguire-Lily Allen-Marina And The Diamonds; which is perfect. Spark unquestionably nabs numerous qualities these fellow professionals possess and moulds it into her own individualistic direction. The chorus has a resounding and emphatic drive, cemented together with a tremendous splattering of bass, empirical drumming and a towering set of vocals laced with honest and succinct lyrical wit. "Crave" feels dark, adolescent, angsty; full of vigor it sets a decent base layer for an eventual piece of well produced music from start to finish. Spark will soon be igniting dancefloors across the country, it's not a matter of if, surely only of when.
Check out the music video below and show this girl some cyber-love on her facebook page.


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When Overstock, the American e-commerce platform that competes with Amazon, became first e-tailer to start accepting Bitcoin back in 2014, it was not immediately clear why did the company take that decision. Crypto had still not become as mainstream as it is today, and Bitcoin was far from its record highs of $20,000 that it reached earlier this year. Looking back, however, it seems that they made the right choice at the right time. And now company's CEO explains very enthusiastically why they made this choice. Recently he explained it in an interview with crypto YouTuber Naomi Brockwell, and his comments probably left a significant impact on the price of Bitcoin.
Speaking to Brockwell Mr. Patrick Byrne, the CEO of Overstock, said that he expects crypto to become the dominant means of exchange when centralized financial systems collapse. Given below is what he had to say:
"People turn to it where they collapse, like Venezuela or Cyprus or Syria, something like that. When people start getting into it is when their own financial systems collapse. So yes, given that I think the entire modern financial system is a big Keynesian, magic money tree Ponzi scheme, I do expect that the day will come when people turn to crypto."
However, Byrne was not entirely confident of Bitcoin becoming the dominant cryptocurrency for mass adoption. He said:
"Whether bitcoin is the one, whether bitcoin has solved its speed problems or it's another cryptocurrency, only time will tell."
Most recently, Overstock added Bitcoin Cash and Ethereum to its list of supported cryptocurrencies for payment.
Patrick speaks, Bitcoin jumps
Patrick's comments seem to have hit a positive chord with crypto traders and investors. Over the course of last 24 hrs Bitcoin's price is up 2%, currently hovering around $6,500. Bitcoin Cash and Ethereum, the other two cryptocurrencies supported by Overstock, are also up about 1%. Of course, other factors are also at play here and this is also not any steep rise, but positive comments from a major American e-tailer certainly matter a lot to the long-term believers of cryptocurrencies.


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The OpportuniTEA benefits many ministries!
By Annette Brodecky
As a Social Worker, I saw many women ruin their lives from broken, battered relationships and drugs and it seemed that they just couldn't improve their situation.
Before attending the first OpportuniTEA, I was unaware of the ministries that there are for women. After hearing about ministries such as Rahab and the agriculture micro-enterprise in Mozambique, Africa, I was all for doing anything that I could to help.
This is truly wonderful that WOW gives hope and encouragement to the poor and
oppressed to "feed their souls" in the name of Jesus.


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In Print
Here is an archive of links to all of my reviews that I have written for other websites.
Metaxa Cocktails — Recipes for the Greatest Greek Spirit
In this month's column, I will be enjoying a bottle of Metaxa 12 Stars as well as the cocktails you can make with it.
Metaxa, also known as the 'Greek Spirit', is often mistaken for a brandy or cognac, but in actuality it is a unique and distinct beverage. Back home in Greece, the distillery is symbolised by the Salamina Warrior (a symbol of risk-taking and courage), inspired by a medallion found during construction.
Escape to Another Time at Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals
Having had the opportunity to visit Mr Fogg's Tavern on occasion, I am already a fan of its particular brand of Victoriana. As such, I jumped at the opportunity to explore their new cocktail offerings at Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals in the heart of Fitzrovia.
While the Tavern is styled like a patriotic pub from a fanciful version of the Victorian age, the House of Botanicals feels more like a conservatory in an impressive country pile.
Explore London's Royal Palaces with Evan Evans
Evan Evans Tours – one of the city's biggest (and oldest) sightseeing companies – are offering an exciting new tour aimed at tourists visiting London wanting to see two of the most iconic Royal Palaces: Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
And given that Windsor is a good 20 miles outside the capital, this tour provides an excellent opportunity for visitors who would otherwise have to rely on public transport to see both of these top attractions in a day without any of the hassle. It's hassle free as your Evan Evans Royal Palaces Tour guide will meet you outside the Royal Mews opposite the luxurious The Rubens at the Palace Hotel. They will then guide you to the Palace entrance… and through the rest of your day.
A Margarita Without Cointreau? Not Worth its Salt…
Situated just outside Finsbury Circus near Moorgate is the South Place Hotel. And tucked away at the back of this modern hotel is a hidden bar called the Secret Garden. Well away from the hustle and bustle of busy London streets, this summer has seen the South Place Hotel transformed into an Acapulco pop-up created in association with Cointreau. The big occasion? To celebrate the 70th birthday of the Margarita cocktail.
The English Grill at The Rubens – Refined Dining Near the Palace
As its name suggests, The Rubens is located just a short stroll away from Buckingham Palace – its address is actually 39 Buckingham Palace Road, and it's directly across from The Royal Mews – making the exquisite English Grill a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. The food is exceptional, and we were constantly made to feel like royalty as the waiters and sommelier tended to our every need. And to top it all, the menu is generously priced for the quality of the food and service provided.
London's Harry Potter Walking Tour
Meeting at Westminster tube station, the Evan Evans Harry Potter Walking Tour will take you on a tour of 11 filming locations used in the Harry Potter film series. Filming locations on the list include the entrances to the Ministry of Magic, the route of the Knight Bus, and the Divination Tower. Some of the known and suspected influences on JK Rowling's writing are also pointed out along the tour, such as the inspirations for both Diagon and Knockturn alley.
The Rubens at the Palace – Refined Calm in the Capital
Featuring luxurious beds, the rooms are spacious given their central location and have a large amount of storage. The beds are very comfortable… perfect after a long walking tour. The walk-in shower is invigorating with a large shower head to help wash away the cares of a long day exploring the city. All the rooms are decorated in a unique style to make you feel at home for the duration of your stay.
Hampton Court Palace – Experience Authentic Tudor Luxury
Nestled in Hampton at the edge of the borough of Richmond-upon-Thames in London, England, Hampton Court Palace has a commanding location on the Thames and is easily reachable via a direct train from London Waterloo. Initially it was the personal palace of Cardinal Wolsey before it was seized by King Henry VIII, and is one of only two palaces belonging to the King that survives to this day (the other is St James's Palace).
Shhhhhhhhhhhhh! It's the LIBRARY London…
Just off of Trafalgar Square is the LIBRARY London, a private members' club launched by entrepreneur Ronald Ndoro.
While the entrance may be unassuming, once inside the hallway opens up into a delightful bar area. At the end is a small stage and above are two mezzanines with leather armchairs to relax in. In the basement, there is a discreet speakeasy with its own bar that caters to smaller groups. Finally, there are also private rooms and a restaurant available for hire.
Code Cracking Fun and Cocktails at The Bletchley
Agent, your mission is clear. First make your way to Chelsea and locate the World's End Market. This unique restaurant and bar hides a secret that you must uncover. You may wish to rest awhile in the upstairs bar and enjoy their hospitality while you steel yourself for the mission ahead (I would recommend the Sazerac).
The Lobby Bar – A Refreshing Take on the Classics
Just inside Fitzrovia near Soho lies the London EDITION, a boutique luxury hotel (and part of the Ritz Carlton group) in central London that's been transformed from a Georgian building by Ian Schrager into a unique, modern experience. Upon entering the building, you are immediately greeted by The Lobby Bar with its notable silver-orb (designed by Ingo Maurer) hanging over the centre of the room. Low lighting, green velvet sofas and subtle wooden furniture evoke a more halcyon era. All these trimmings seem at home under the expansive Edwardian ceiling.
Maison Assouline — Cocktails With a Unique Library Aesthetic
Not far from London's Piccadilly Circus, about halfway down Piccadilly, lies the Maison Assouline. A luxury bookshop selling books as objects of art, its high vaulted ceiling and wood panelling are reminiscent of a library. And within this old bank building, Swan's Bar serves a variety of cocktails and small snacks.
The interesting surroundings, as well as the unique book collection on the shelves, make this the perfect place to unwind after a long day working in the city. Table service ensures you feel truly pampered, and certainly lends a little extra class. It's a perfect place to while away the hours in a luxurious location.
Fine Wine & Exquisite Food at Members-only 67 Pall Mall
A short walk down from St James' Palace and Trafalgar Square on Pall Mall in London is 67 Pall Mall, an exclusive private members bar founded by wine lovers for wine lovers. Set in sumptuous rooms with a newly renovated upper floor, this fine establishment provides great food and a diverse wine list in one of the UK's most exclusive venues.
Currently open to new membership applications, the club boasts 500 wines by the glass and an impressive 5,000 by the bottle. Members may also store their own bottles of wine at the club to drink at their leisure.
Lokhandawala – Indian Tapas in a Colonial Setting
A short walk from Goodge Street station on the ever-culinary Charlotte Street lies Lokhandwala. In a distinctively decorated, colonial style, this Indian tapas restaurant is part of a wave of new restaurants re-imagining what a curry house can be.
In the 1930s this was the haunt of authors, artists, and other cognoscenti. While they may no longer relax on the sofas, artwork representing the more famous patrons adorns the walls. One of these was author Agatha Christie. In order to celebrate Kenneth Branagh's adaption of her book Murder on the Orient Express, Manetta's Bar has created a range of cocktails inspired by the carriages of this famous train.
A fresh take on guacamole… with a helping of tequila
Just north of both Covent Garden and Leicester Square is the Mexican restaurant Cantina Laredo. The restaurant has two large rooms with their own bars as well as several rooms available for group bookings. And, perhaps best of all, they have just launched a new guacamole and tequila bar offering eight different guacamoles made fresh right in front of you.
The Green Knight – Sumptuous salads to keep you cricketing-fit
Situated just west of South Kensington station is Squirrel, a healthy, casual food and drink concept where a sumptuous salad bar takes pride of place under acorn shaped lighting in front of murals of… yes, you guessed it… squirrels. Past the salad bar is a modest dining area styled in a slightly more nautical theme…
Feeling 'Hoppy' – Young's Great Hop Expedition
Some might not consider a few beers down the local to be the lap of luxury. Throughout autumn,Young's are aiming to change that with a bevy of brewer-led events to train your palate with an appreciation of everything to do with hops….
Meat, Drink and be Merry – Young's & Geronimo Game and Wine Nights
The Elgin holds a commanding spot on the corner of Ladbroke Grove, Notting Hill in London. A short walk from Portobello Road, this recently refurbished pub is injecting a Victorian vibe into this vibrant area. Its 'Game and Wine Nights' are further placing a desire for the traditional to the fore…


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Cream & Navy Stripe & Lobster Rompers 3 Pack - Newborntuc135029652
- Save 2.80£7.00
Size: NewbornSize Guide
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Design details
This gorgeous romper three pack will look adorable on your little angel. With different designs to choose from, including navy and cream stripes, and one with an all-over lobster print, all three come with popper fastenings below and three button fastening at the front. Cute and practical for quick and easy changes, these are the ideal all-in-ones for your baby this summer.
- 1 x Navy stripe
- 1 x Cream Stripe
- 1 x Lobster print
- Sleeveless
- 3 Button fastening
- Poppers below
- Pure cotton
- Keep away from fire
- 100% Cotton (Excluding trims)
- Machine washable
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*Prices correct as displayed but are subject to change.
The customer and brand answers you'll see above are submitted independently. As we don't review these answers, we can't take responsibility for anything they may say. The responses from Argos colleagues are accurate at the time of publishing. For the latest info, you should check the product page.


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The researcher John Delaney, in conjunction with the Japanese Pola Museum of Art, conducted an analysis of Picasso's painting "Mother with the Child by the Sea" by means of the infrared scanning, which allowed the experts to confirm the authenticity of the work. After that, they conducted a study of the paint layer, and there was an interesting detail here.
The technology of infrared scanning revealed the lower layers of the canvas, on which there were traces of the previous drawing and the French newspaper Le Journal of January 18, 1902. The presence of the newspaper still remains a mystery, but for biographers, its appearance is an important event, as the date of publication is close to the move of the artist from Paris to Barcelona. In addition to the newspaper, the scan revealed an early picture, which is a new image. It depicts a woman with a glass of absinthe. This fact is less surprising, since it is known that Picasso often wrote some paintings on top of others.
According to researchers, most likely, Picasso used the newspaper to close the old colorful layers of the previous image. "Mother with the child by the sea" along with the results of the research will be presented at a special exhibition in the Pola Museum of Art, and then go to the exhibition in the Parisian Museum of Orsay.


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Silicon Valley's season 5 run isn't even over. Of the 8 episodes shot, 5 have aired as of yet. The reception for the aired episodes was enough for HBO to wave the green flag for another season. Though we saw the impending approval after the first two episodes, it's now official and set in stone.
Season 5 saw the disappearance of TJ Miller from the series. In Season 4's finale, Erlich Bachman, TJ Miller's character, is lazing around in Tibet without a way back home. In hindsight, it's the best way Erlich Bachman could have left the show. This development was met with some fierce disapproval from fans though.
TJ Miller's character is often hailed as the funniest in the show by fans. So the sudden disappearance of Erlich Bachman put the show runners on edge. The reasons for TJ Miller leaving, or being kicked out, are vague. Most sources claim that the show runners grew tired of TJ Miller's consistent tardiness to the set. TJ Miller pointed to his 'growing' film career, specifically the Emoji Film, as a reason for his exit. After the film's astoundingly negative reception, it's hard to picture TJ Miller happy with his 'choice'.
But his exit was dealt with in the show's usual tone: comically. And season 5 continued as strong as ever without him. In fact, considering the recent arrest of TJ Miller, the show runners are probably counting their blessings. The arrest of a cast member will put any show in the hot seat. TJ Miller not being a cast member put Silicon Valley out of the danger.
TJ Miller's arrest is a recent development and not one that is clear to dissect. Authorities arrested him at New York's LaGuardia Airport after a fake bomb threat. It seems that both his TV careerandfilm career is in danger after his newest stunt.


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Archived Glenn interview from May
Wisconsin Public Radio interviewed Glenn for their show To The Best of our Knowledge in May. Their page has an archived copy of the interview, which features extensive clips of music and a mention of One for the Road --- including its theme song. Glenn is in the second segment, so you have to sit through a little article about the international phenomenon of yodeling (including some hip-hop/country/yodeling). The show ends with an interview with John Wesley Harding about his novel.


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AG refuses to make effort to cancel Tuesday special election
PHOENIX -- Attorney General Mark Brnovich refused today to try to cancel next week's special elections despite foul-ups by Secretary of State Michele Reagan, saying there's nothing in state law to permit that.
At a hastily called press conference, Brnovich unloaded on Reagan for failing to comply with state laws requiring voters to get ballot pamphlets explaining the two issues before they got their actual early ballots. And he said there needs to be an investigation of why Reagan hid that information from the public for so long.
"This was a complete fiasco,' Brnovich said.
"I don't know what the right word to express it,' he continued. "But it pisses me off, as an Arizonan, as the attorney general.'
But Brnovich laid some of the blame on lawmakers for leaving him with his hands tied.
"We know that we want strict compliance with election laws,' he said. "But the legislature never provided any penalty.'
Neither Reagan nor her press aide immediately returned calls.
Reagan spokesman Matt Roberts conceded earlier this week that at least 200,000 pamphlets explaining Proposition 123 and 124 did not go out on time. The first deals with increased funding for public schools; the second alters constitutional provisions on public pensions.
Robert said he believes the affected households are all outside the two major counties.
The affected homes appear to be those with two people who are on the list to get early ballots. That means more than 400,000 voters could be affected.
Roberts acknowledged his boss knew about the problem weeks before it was publicly disclosed. But he said she was doing the best she could in the interim to mail out the pamphlets to those who did not get it.
Brnovich expressed skepticism.
"Why did it take weeks to inform the public?' he asked.
Arizona law mandates that one pamphlet goes to every household with a registered voter. It contains not only what is supposed to be an impartial explanation of every measure but also pro and con arguments.
The gap in mailings went unnoticed publicly until attorney Tom Ryan pointed it out earlier this week and asked the attorney general to intercede.
Brnovich said Ryan is free to file his own legal action if he believes there are grounds to postpone the vote. But Ryan already has said he lacks the resources to bring a challenge which would have to be made against election officials in all 15 counties.
Brnovich also said there is no legal recourse against Reagan. He said that is up to voters.
"We do know and do believe the secretary of state violated Arizona law,' Brnovich said. "Unfortunately, there's nothing in the statutes that provide an adequate remedy.'
But Brnovich was more than clear in his displeasure. He pointed out the law says Reagan "shall' get the pamphlets out into the homes of voters ahead of the early ballots being mailed.
That should have happened no later than April 20.
"This is a mandatory duty,' he continued. "She failed to do her duty.'
"This put a lot of people into a bad situation,' he said, pronouncing himself "frustrated.'
"It seems like every time we have an election here it ends up in a goat rope,' Brnovich continued. "It's incredible we can't get these things right.'
Brnovich said he now is focused on preventing something like this from happening again -- and putting something in law to allow for some legal remedy if it does, whether to halt the election or to punish the elected official who breaks the law.
"What can we do to make sure that there are sanctions in the future if an elected official or anyone else doesn't comply with the law,' he said.
Legal barriers aside to canceling next week's election, Brnovich said that is "not the best course' for the state and its voters. He said that would disenfranchise the approximately 700,000 people who already have cast their early ballots -- even if some of them were mailed out before people got the pamplets.
"We're faced with the situation where you're less than a week before the election, early balloting has already started,' Brnovich said.
- Whiskey Fire produces heavy smoke over Northern Arizona
- Verde Valley women shine at bikini competition
- Whiskey Fire grows to 3,500 acres
- Camp Verde mom arrested for felony DUI with 5-year-old daughter in car
- Police: Woman stabs boyfriend in leg
- Trio arrested in connection with Verde Valley burglaries
- YCSO: Man, drunk at wheel, had 2-, 3-year-old boys in truck
- Is there enough water to support growth in Rimrock?
- Victim in motorcycle crash flown to Flagstaff Medical Center
- It's unanimous: County approves Rimrock shopping center
- Whiskey Fire produces heavy smoke over Northern Arizona
- Verde Valley women shine at bikini competition
- Arrest made in connection with Sedona high school lockdown
- Whiskey Fire grows to 3,500 acres
- Yavapai County sees major spike in HIV cases
- Man accused of stealing Jeep: 'Well, it was running'
- Cottonwood, Camp Verde traffic stop results in $900K fentanyl bust
- Delafuente signs plea agreement on two felony counts
- Camp Verde mom arrested for felony DUI with 5-year-old daughter in car
- Sedona school administration shares details on lockdown incident, Zielinski arrest
More like this story
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***If you don't feel like reading the intro – jump to the bottom of the page to watch the vlog[…]Read more
Tag: Sailing
Ship's log n°14 – Photo finish: Haji vs Jubilate Mare
Posted on 6/12/2017 on World Cruising It's 4am on day twenty at sea. After two weeks without seeing another ARC+[…]Read more
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Posted on 30/11/2017 to World Cruising Running low on ideas for blog posts, we enlisted the help of family and[…]Read more
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Posted on 25/11/2017 to World Cruising Salut Mupi! Ça va? A moment of panic. The Skipper thought he was running[…]Read more
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Posted on 21/11/2017 to World Cruising In this installment, we introduce Ol' Cap'n Babbage, skipper of the intrepid Madrisa of[…]Read more
SV Haji: Ship's log n°11 – Shower Power
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Ship's log n°9 – Deep Blue Blues
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text: How do we battle the crazy photoshopped images we see on social media everyday? We post our real bodies. It is that simple. As I have been discovering some really beautiful swimwear for summer, I have also been leaving my body as is in the photos. Granted, I might smooth a bikini line (full disclosure,) the rest is what my body looks like. And guess what? This swimsuits still look amazing. I hope these posts help you shop for the summer from someone who might have a body type that is closer to your own.Read More


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Apple head honcho Steve Jobs has reportedly put the other trainer into Adobe's soft underbelly, giving Flash yet another tongue-lashing during a meeting with Wall Street Journal staff in New York, following the iPad's launch in January.
According to Valleywag, Jobs responded to questions about the iPad's notorious lack of Flash support by saying the software, on which the majority of Internet video is based, is a "CPU hog". He also allegedly said Flash is a source of "security holes" and that Apple doesn't "spend a lot of energy on old technology", suggesting the software would soon be going the way of the floppy disk.
Jobs has form in belittling Adobe's efforts. At a company-wide meeting of Apple employees following the iPad launch, Jobs was reported to have branded Adobe "lazy" and Flash "so buggy". He also apparently said the software was behind the majority of Mac crashes and added that "no-one will be using Flash. The world is moving to HTML5".
If you ever happen to bump into Jobs on a Cupertino corner, don't mention Google, for the love of God -- unless you want to really see him get his turtleneck in a twist. And consult this article to discover what else has had its fate sealed by the Jobster.


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Continuing from the last PSA, "Better tagging, happier people!", this month's announcement deals with Theme tags. They're quite possibly the most difficult tag category to handle and, at the same time, one of the more fun ones! So why exactly IS it the most difficult tag type? Well, it requires the most research and work: first you decide that you need a particular tag, then you go hunting for images for it, often through dozens of pages of images. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
+ Is the tag needed? "Needed" means having a reasonable number of images (at
least 4-5) it can be added to. When creating a new tag, it's advisable to post in the Tag Admin Thread and list a few images for it (or add it to a few images
before posting). If it's good, it'll stay, but if it doesn't have enough images and you don't post about it, it
will most likely get deleted or merged with a bigger tag.
It's recommended that you ask in the Tag-licious group before creating a new Theme tag. If it's good, we'll give you the OK to make it. If not, we'll explain why.
A particular situation are bigger galleries, like Carry: it has recently been divided into several sub-galleries in order to help with finding particular images.
+ Are there any alternatives? Sometimes, you can use a bigger tag. For example, you can use the Cross tag for images with ankhs. If the alternative is more reasonable than the new tag, use that instead. But if, on the other hand, there are enough images of ankhs (refer to previous point), then sure, go ahead and suggest it!
+ How specific? A new Theme tag should be specific enough to help narrow down
images, but also generic enough to have enough images. Sounds confusing at first, but it helps avoid overcrowding with
tags that never get used. Also consider if the tag can be replaced with a combination of a few words when searching.
For example, the Mismatched Legwear tag: it's restricted to different-colored/patterned legwear, but generic enough to include thigh highs, socks and pantyhose - as opposed to how "Mismatched Socks" or "Mismatched Thigh Highs" would be.
+ Can I add a new subtag for another Theme tag? Of course! We've created a Baseball Bat tag, separate from Baseball, for more accurate categorization (not all images with baseball bats feature characters playing baseball). Another example would be separating Train Station, Railroad Tracks and Subway from Trains.
Brush up on the rules again here:
+ Tagging guidelines - the gist of tagging.
+ The Policy - long, but useful.
+ Tag administration thread - go here to report your tags!
+ Tag-licious - more useful rules and tips, talk about tags.
Happy tagging! C:


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The second time around, Tym Pearson has no doubts about his summer plans.
Pearson, the 2009 Thurston graduate who was an all-state baseball and football player and led both Colt teams to state title games as a senior, intends to sign with the New York Yankees as soon as possible this summer after being drafted in the 41st round earlier this month.
�It�s relieving,� Pearson said. �It�s a great opportunity you�re given, and you have to recognize the thought of playing professionally.�
It�s a different approach to this summer than last for the 6-foot-3, 210-pound center fielder. Pearson turned down the chance to play quarterback at Portland State last August, then rebuffed the Colorado Rockies after the team drafted him in the 35th round less than a week after leading Thurston to the Class 5A baseball title.
Instead, he played for Columbia Basin Community College in Pasco, Wash., where he moved from right to center field and hit .307 with 46 hits and a team-record six triples.
The move to center showcased Pearson�s speed and ability to cover a lot of ground, a change Pearson was told the Yankees liked.
�They gave me the opportunity to start center field, and that�s the experience I needed,� he said.
Pearson, the 2009 Register-Guard male prep athlete of the year, is back in Springfield for the time being, playing on a summer instructional team to stay in shape while negotiations begin with the Yankees. He said he doesn�t have a formal agent, but has received informal outside help so far during contract talks.
It was in Springfield where he spent draft day on June 7, watching the prime-time broadcast of the first round on TV. Hearing from the Yankees he might be drafted on Day 2, �My mom and dad were on the computer sitting around for the rounds I thought I might go in,� said Pearson, who wasn�t picked that day.
�When Day 3 rolled around, I knew I�d go. I was just waiting for the call.�
It helped that the call came from the most storied franchise in baseball history and the defending World Series champions.
�To be picked up by such a big team, that�s a great feeling knowing that you�re a part of something that�s really huge in the baseball world,� Pearson said.
The Yankees� minor-league affiliates start at the rookie level in the Sarasota, Fla., Gulf Coast Yankees, a level that Pearson could expect to be sent to this summer.
Pearson is honest when he says he �didn�t go as early as I thought I�d go,� yet this time also was less stressful for him during the draft, he said. When he did get the phone call from New York, he knew he wanted to sign and said a weight had been lifted off him.
�I just really want to get out there and get going,� he said.
The year he spent at Columbia Basin made him a better player, said Pearson, who began playing baseball as a Thurston junior. He believes the experience was a step forward despite his draft position going backward.
�Disregarding the whole draft situation, it was a great experience for me. And it was what I needed to grow because I haven�t been playing that long,� Pearson said.
Although he didn�t say how much he is expecting to sign for, he expects to sign by the Aug. 16 deadline. And when that happens, he believes his friends will become Yankees fans.
�All my friends, were like, �Oh I�m not a Yankees fan,� he said, �but I am now.�


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Design Futuristic - Mouse Pad
Official AOD Merchandise, this is a mouse pad that was made for the 12 April Design Futuristic Day, use it futuristic, design fantastic.
€ 10
Supplied by: Association of Design.
Keywords: mousepad, design futuristic, mouse pad, comfortable products, comfortable mousepad, cool mouse pad, AOD Merchandis, 12 April Design Futuristic Day, mouse pad for designers
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Fender's all new Player Jazz Bass is here to help you take your next step forward in your guitar playing journey. Featuring authentic Fender tone, a fantastic split single-coil pickup, and enhanced playability, this guitar is a professional level solidbody bass with a full lifetime of playing ahead of it. The entire line up of new Player Series models are some of the finest basses Fender has made at a price that is incredibly affordable.
The spirited tone of this guitar comes from its two Player Series Alnico 5 Single-Coil Jazz Bass pickups, which yield more tonal clarity and response than ever before, putting the powerful tone of a J Bass right at your fingertips. Plus, the four-bolt "F" logo neck plate, spaghetti-logo headstock, and authentically-contoured body add another layer of genuine Fender vibe. Thanks to articulate tone, exceptional Fender feel, and the unmistakable overall vibe of the Jazz Bass, this Player Series model is a remarkable instrument that's ready for the taking.
-Series: Player
-Body Material: Alder
-Body Finish: Gloss Polyester
-Neck: Maple, Modern "C"
-Neck Finish: Satin Urethane Finish on Back of Neck with Gloss Urethane Headstock Face (Pau Ferro), Satin Urethane Finish on Back, Gloss Urethane Finish on Front (Maple)
-Fingerboard: Maple, 9.5" Radius (241 mm)
-Frets: 20, Medium Jumbo
-Position Inlays: Black Dots
-Nut Material/Width: Synthetic Bone, 1.625" (41.3mm)
-Tuning Machines: Standard Open-Gear
-Scale Length: 34" (864mm)
-Bridge: 4-Saddle Standard
-Pickguard: 3-Ply Parchment
-Pickups: Player Series Alnico 5 Single-Coil Jazz Bass (Bridge/Middle)
-Controls: Volume 1. (Middle Pickup), Volume 2. (Bridge Pickup), Master Tone
-Control Knobs: Vintage Style Black Plastic Jazz Bass
-Hardware Finish: Nickel/Chrome
Why We Love Fender
It's hard to find a name more synonymous with guitars than Fender. Ever since Leo Fender burst onto the scene with his now-iconic Telecaster, Fender guitars have found homes in the hands of brand new guitar players and seasoned rock stars. When the headstock says Fender, you know you're getting a quality instrument.


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Finding a Japanese House | Part One
I wanted to share with you some of our experiences in finding our house here in Japan. I had to break this post up into two parts as it was beginning to get rather long. This first part is about finding our Japanese house and the process of renting, the second will be a little tour of it through the photos I took while it was still empty. A full "furnished" house tour is in the works as well. :)
The House Hunting Process
As some may know we arrived in Japan May 1st, 2013. We spent the better part of May living in the Navy Lodge on the Yokosuka Navy Base. The first week here we began searching for a home. Neither of us were interested in living at another Navy Lodge or out of suitcases for any longer than necessary. (See my post on living for two months at the Navy Lodge in San Diego)
To start looking for a place to live you first have to go to a short housing brief which is held at the housing office, conveniently just outside the door of the Navy Lodge. I'm glad someone had the forethought and put it there as walking across the large base is tiresome. At the brief they told us about the different housing options available to us (on base, off base), showed us the different methods of finding a house (listings at the housing office or real estate agents off base) and how to go about renting once you have chosen a place. Once that was complete we took off in our quest to find a home.
Walking into our housing brief we knew that we wanted an off base house or apartment. On base housing was not really an option for several reasons. One being that there were very few options to pick from that would allow for cats. And secondly, living on base would limit our experiences with the Japanese culture, which was our the main reason for coming here. So off base housing it was.
We began by following a little off base real estate agents list that we were given at the brief. The list was a little outdated but it did help us find a few places that were kind of out of the way. As soon as you step out of the main gate there are real estate agents everywhere, almost on every corner.
Our first stop was directly across from the gate. The process was quite simple. We stepped in, said hello and that we were looking for a house and sat down in the chairs offered. The lady had us first fill out our information and a few basic things we were looking for (house or apartment, pets OK, distance from base or train, number of cars...). Most often the agent would get stuck on the fact that we had cats. Specifying that they had been declawed was extremely helpful. With that info she pulled out a few folders and flipped through several and produced two houses she thought might fit. Almost without fail we were shown two houses and no more. I don't know if it is a cultural thing or if it was our pet limitations. (After about the 6th realtor just showing us two houses got a little frustrating but we pushed on, and God prevailed.) We asked a few questions about the homes, said we would like to see them, a phone call was made and went to see both houses immediately. Seeing a house layout and thumbnail sized photos on a single printed paper is not enough information to make any sort of serious decision on if we liked a place or not. Being our first stop we wanted to experience going to a home to better make future decisions.
As we learned quickly having our wish list of things that we were looking for in a house was essential. There were so many homes to look at even with our pet limitations.
A few pointers to those that are reading and may be looking for a Japanese home here:
- Make a "wish list"
- Pets are almost always negotiable, even if the listing specifies "no pets". Ask.
- Go in person. Most of the realtors did not even have a computer in their office or updated house listings on their websites.
- Don't rule out a house if it doesn't have photos. Several houses we looked at didn't and were good options for the right person.
- Most agents took us to see the house right then and so we were able to see homes very quickly and only had to wait a few times for a scheduled appointment.
- Real estate agents seem to have a certain list of qualifications that us "orang barat" ("westerners" in Indonesian) are searching for. Having your list helps counter this.
- Be picky.
The house that we ended up finding 1 1/2 weeks later was actually through a friend's real estate agent whom we had been in email contact with (House Land is who she works for, ask for Maimi). Once we stepped in we knew it was for us, an indescribable feeling. It felt right.
We made a verbal commitment on the 13th, the 15th was the last day that Navy families were supposedly being given to look for off base housing and instead were required to look on base. I'm so thankful.
The listing for our house (red and yellow edits made by the Navy contractor that inspected the house) with quite a bit of information. This is typically what you will find when looking for a Japanese place, although usually with less information.
Renting A House
To rent a house here you have to put down quite a bit of money up front, usually 3 or 4 times the amount of rent. The extra costs goes to several different parties and some are only deposits which you will then get back once your contract is over. For example we had to pay an owners fee, a realtor agent fee and a pet deposit x2, each equalling roughly a months rent. To top it off this must be paid in cash at the time of signing. Most have to take out a temporary loan to cover the cost. The Navy helps out too. Ever wondered how much $13,000 looks like in cash?
Before we could sign our lease and move in the house had to be inspected by someone from the Navy Base. This took them about 8 days. After that we scheduled our lease signing at the housing office and waited anxiously for the date to arrive.
Moving In
On May 30th we moved into our house. It was such an exciting day. We only had our suitcases and an air mattress but we were ecstatic to be in our own place at last. If we were to do it again we would have scheduled weeks in advance our household goods shipment to be delivered the next day. But instead we had to wait another week for it to arrive. The time was well spent however exploring the area and spending time together.
The day our household shipment arrived I was a little worried the movers would have trouble getting everything up the stairs and into the house. As you can see our house sits on top of a carport and there is also a second floor. The second floor is actually the living space, kitchen and dinning room with the bedrooms on the first floor. I was pleasantly surprised how quickly everything was moved in. We only had our queen bed and two dressers furniture-wise and those were on the first floor. I was able to start unpacking some of the kitchen boxes while Anson directed downstairs. The movers left since they had another move to be at but promised to be back around 3 that afternoon to pick up any boxes or packing material and so we quickly unpacked every box. It's a good habit for moving. Unpacking everything forces you to deal with your stuff and I had quite a few things that went in my get rid of pile. Living out of a suitcase for three months changes how you view stuff.


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Completing a product means delivering it to production in such a way the builder requires. We make sure building methods and assembly suits the builder and that process runs through the entire development. We deliver products where all aspects of systems, assembly, finish and tooling is carefully thought through.
CAD and production
Every manufacturer has their way of producing and their own definition of what is right and what is wrong. We make sure that our engineering suites your facilities and production lines.
Information model
Instruction manuals, interactive manuals, information about installed products, bill of material (BOM) etc. Everything you need to know about your product, either as manufacturer or end user, it is here.
Production planning and follow ups
We, as designers and engineers, know almost every detail of the product. It is crucial to communicate this information in such a way that production can move along efficiently. We don't leave you with just a set of drawings, we are happy to help, discuss and optimize together. This way we will also have improved before the next project.


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Video recording is very popular nowadays especially for students, bloggers and businessmen as they will occasionally need to make a video for more effective presentation. No matter why you need to record video on Mac, you will always want to have the best screen recorder for Mac Video recording is very popular nowadays especially for students, bloggers and businessmen as they will occasionally need to make a video for more effective presentation. No matter why you need to record video on Mac, you will always want to have the best screen recorder for Mac that will suit all your recording needs, right? You may be puzzled at the plenty of options when it comes to the selection of Mac screen recording tools. If it's the case, you can have a look at this article about the best screen recording software for Mac, including both the free and paid ones to help you make the choice.
AceThinker Mac Screen Grabber Pro
When talking about the best screen recorder for Mac, AceThinker Screen Grabber Pro for Mac should definitely not be ignored. It's an effective tool for recording screen, making tutorial videos, capturing a video, movie or gameplay on Mac OS 10.8 and above. Moreover, this tool allows you to record videos along with the audio coming from the system, microphone, or both simultaneously. It also has a built-in converter that lets you convert your recorded files into different formats such as MP4, AVI, WMV, and more. Here is the simple guide on how to record using this video recording software for Mac.
Step1 Download and Activate the Application
Click the button below to download and install the program on your Mac computer (The Windows version is also available). After that, follow the setup wizard and launch the app.
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Windows XP/7/8/10
Secure Download
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Mac OS X 10.8 & above
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Step2 Configure the SettingsBefore the recording, you can configure the setting on the "Option" menu from the main interface. For there, you can set the output video format, hotkeys, etc.
Step3 Select the Recording Mode
Click on the "Record" button and select the recording mode according to your need. Select whether you will capture a region or full-screen. If you want to add webcam on your recording, click the "Webcam" icon.
Step4 Start And Annonate the Recording
Once you have selected your capturing mode, click the "Start" button to start the recording. If you want to make tutorials and you wish to annotate your recording, click the "Pen" icon on the floating toolbar. You can add shapes, arrows, texts, and more.
Step5 Stop and Save the RecordingOnce you are done with the recording, the recorded file will automatically be saved in your computer's hard drive and displayed on the main interface of this Mac screen capture software.
- Real-time editor
- Intuitive interface
- Offline screen recording program
- It has a screen recording task scheduler for you to record your screen when you are not in front of your computer
- Need to buy the full version to completely experience the benefit out of it
When it comes to the best screen recording software for Mac, ScreenFlow really can't get missed in the list. It is very useful for making a tutorial or demo videos and screencasts. This tool has built-in features that allow you to annotate, add images, put background music, and transitions. In addition, it's also capable of recording audio from microphone, system and other external audio input. Once done recording, you can save it on your computer in various formats or share it on different video sharing sites. See the steps below on how to use the ScreenFlow to record video on Mac.
Step1 Download and Open the ToolDownload the application from ScreenFlow and install it on your Mac computer (This program is only available for Mac users). Prior to recording, a window will pop-up on your screen where you can configure the audio sources. Click the square box to choose whether you want to enable the microphone, computer audio or both.
Step2 Start to RecordTo start recording, tap on the recorder icon on the top of your screen and click the "Record" button. Once you are done recording, simply go to the recorder icon again and click "Stop Record" option.
Step3 Edit and Publish the Recorded VideoOnce you stop the recording, another window will pop up on your computer screen where you can preview and edit your video.
- ScreenFlow is an easy to use application.
- It has an intuitive interface.
- It provides various editing features.
- Screenflow has no free upgrade service.
- You have to pay high amount of money before you can use the application.
- It is only available on Mac.
QuickTime Player
QuickTime Player is a pre-installed application developed by Apple company and serves as the default media player for Mac devices. But it can also be used to record screen on Mac and we can say that it's one of the best free screen recorders for Mac. This tool has an intuitive interface that helps the users to accomplish their recording without any trouble. It allows the users to record gameplay, footages, makes tutorials. Even the web camera, iPhone screen, and audio from a computer system or microphone can be recorded. Read the below steps on how to use QuickTime Player screen recording feature.
Step1 Start A New Screen RecordingOpen the program and go to the "File" menu at the top left of your screen and select "New Screen Recording" option.
Step2 Select Audio SourceClick on the down-arrow beside the recorder button to choose the audio source.
Step3 Start and End the RecordingTo start recording, click on the red circle "Record" button as shown below. You can choose to record a region or full screen. Once done with the recording, simply hit the same "Red" button and your video file will be saved in MOV format on your Mac system.
- QuickTime Player can be use on both online and desktop.
- It provides an easy video editing.
- The preparation before recording takes quite a long time.
- It requires a streaming server to host the download.
OBS Screen Recorder
OBS (Open Broadcast Software) Screen Recorder is also undoubtedly one of the best screen capture software for Mac. This tool is often used to record gameplay, as it is able to record video along with its audio. It also has functions that are good for video editing, filtering, color correction, and actual audio enhancement and noise removal using its built-in sound enhancer.
Here is how you can get started to record screen on Mac with OBS:
Step1 Select SourceVisit the page and download the program from OBS. Follow the setup wizard until the program launched. After that, go to the "Sources" menu to see a list of sources. Then, choose the "Display Capture" to open the "Create or Select" window.
Step2 Customize the Display WindowAfter selecting the source, choose the kind of display that you want to record. If you only have one video card or monitor, you do not have to change anything on your display. However, you can add another display by simply choosing from the "Display" drop-down menu. Then tap the "OK" button.
Step3 Adjust the VolumeFrom the "Mixer" tab at the bottom part of OBS window, you can adjust the volume of audio coming from desktop and external input like a mic.
Step4 Start and Finish the RecordingAt the bottom right of the OBS window, simply click the "Start Recording" button to start the process. Then, hit "Stop Recording" when you are done with your recording.
- OBS Screen Recorder is a free and open source platform.
- It allows unlimited number of video files.
- It has over 20 plugins that enhance video quality.
- OBS Screen Recorder does not work on Windows XP.
- It has an unfriendly interface.


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The University of Northern Iowa had a dream of transforming their dinning hall called The Redeker Center. They decided to call upon the well respected Iowa based architecture firm OPN and it seems every one is extremely happy with the decision. OPN, like always, brought their unique and distinctive style into the space.
Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate with us so we were only able to make the interior images. I will be going back this week to shoot the exteriors and will post an update when completed.


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In the paper the authors realized an analysis of terminological expressions the pregraduate, graduate and postgraduate education with application to the specialization of social work and proposed the concept of a uniform terminology in this field. They introduced the system of education of social workers in the United States, Great Britain, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic in the context of university education systems in these countries with a specific focus on the European university education area and various quality security systems of this education.
Modern age (it is meant to be industrial western society for the purpose of this article) is possible to describe by several basic characteristics. They differentiate modern society from pre-modern forms. In the celebration of the world famous sociologist Ulrich Beck (who died this year) the article focuses on to critical analysis of family and its security function in the light of factors of individualisation and rationalisation of the modern society. The article focuses not only on erosion of family as the institution, but also on erosion of the term "family" itself, which (in terms of A. Giddens, 2000) becomes so called "shell institution" with different meaning of the term in comparison with pre-modern meaning of the term "family", especially when speaking about security function of the family.
In the article, I try to characterize the modern family, its functions, main features of functional and dysfunctional families and their connection with children's needs, as well as the role of situations considered as crisis. Then I present the results of my own research devoted to the quality of the contact between parents and children (in the evaluation of the former), educational problems, different forms of family activities, as well as knowledge of the needs of children. Finally, I point out some of the possible ways to improve the level of educational/pedagogical culture regarding the above aspects - through professional literature, manuals, magazines about education, television programs, radio programs and web portals for parents. I also shortly discuss the role of social campaigns and benefits of conducting workshops in schools.
Quality of life of people is a phenomenon determined by individual subjective feelings nor their own system of values. The immobile seniors quality of life due to disability may differ in some respects in the environment in which they live existentially. The research was conducted using a standardized questionnaire, the World Health Organization (WHO). In examining the indicators of quality of life was used version of WHOQOL-OLD in combination with a shortened version of the questionnaire WHOQOLBREF. In the statistical comparison they were found relevant differences in the perception of independence in the fulfillment and social inclusion among seniors living at home and seniors living in social institutions. From the interpretation of the results that a reduced mobility in the elderly is a significant attribute that represents a major impact on the quality of life of senior citizens in the social environment.
In the paper we define, characterize and formulate practical diagnosis of social clients base on the use of projective method – graphological handwriting analysis. We highlight the importance of motivation social clients to the personal development and growing with a purpose to achieve personal maturity. The importance of graphological analysis of the handwriting of social clients we justify by results of examination of experts in the field of graphology and from our own graphological copyright research of the handwriting of adults people.
In the paper we discuss about usefull of the new kind of social counselling and guiding - Educational social counselling and guiding. It tis a way of acceptation of the social function of adult education in the solving of individual and group social problems. Educational social counselling and guiding is presented as a concept and the part of social work. We discuss the aims of social educational counselling and guiding and lifelong learning, in the context of social work.
As response to worsening global social situation and not improving, the radical social work emerged. It efforts on social changes that allow to prevent negative social events. Social workers have opportunity by joint striving to reach sustainable positive changes. ICSW, IFSW and IAASW together advocate for fulfilling of the Global Social Agenda.
In this paper we highlight the paradoxical modern social phenomenon in terms of building a knowledge-based society, which is the social and professional discrimination of seniors collar workers in the workplace. Note the professional handicap collar workers seniors due to the calendar age. The problem is presented in the context of spirit poverty manifestations in society.
Europe has a challenge how to combine migration flows with ageing and future shortage of labour skill. Immigrants have their human and social rights. Europe does not use all international human rights instruments. Refugee crisis is also the result of previous wrong decisions. Social justice is not only for people born in EU. Social protection is a universal right which is now completed with right guaranteed minimum. No punishment is entitled in case of human rights giving. Europe has to take its part of responsibility. There will be no full well-being in Europe, while other parts of the World suffer.
Adult education goes far beyond just acquiring knowledge adults. It concerns namely their ability to learn living throughout their career, family and personal life. Adult education is determined by educational policy. Currently, adult education is promoted as a way and means to effectively help people on how to live in a globalized world.
In the family environment, there are recognized factors which influence development of child´s personality, its present and future standard of living. In this paper, influence of family socioeconomic status on a child is clarified as a one of possible determinants of his development. It is taken to consideration that reviewing of various factors of family environment from the point of their influence on a child is not easy therefore the paper should be understood as a draft of some impacts of socioeconomic status of the family on a child.
In the article we focus on the theoretical and practical part of activities of the Civic Association eRko. The article is based on our working in eRko in Betlanovce, region Spišská Nová Ves, whose members we have been since the age of nine. We participated regular meetings with our supervisors (voluntary supervisors) as kids, and they had always prepared a rich program. We experienced an enjoyable community with our supervisors through different activities, discussions, games and camps. Meetings had a family character, supervisors were our personal examples. We used to meet in a church or in a house of culture in Betlanovce. We developed our abilities, knowledge, talents and skills. We learned how to appreciate our life, develop relationships with people in our surroundings, help the other people (projects: Children's act of Help, Good News). At the presence we are acting as supervisors (voluntary supervisors).
The contribution deals with the problem consequence of the neuroscience for education. We will explain concept of the brain-compatibility teaching and program of the Philosophy for children as an educational concept which is to develop multidimensional thinking of children, it includes the development of critical, creative and caring thinking.
New technologies, modernization, fast lifestyle brings out the progress and the increasing incidence of lifestyle diseases and the need to practice social work in a variety of spheres. The aim of the article is to theoretically develop the role of social work in working with cancer patients. Authors based on a holistic approach in clarifying.
The paper is focused on historical analysis of justice concept and its development. The summary of theories dealing with this issue is presented to a reader. The paper points to traditional view of justice, which is rooted in Western classical tradition, but also offers a Eastern world view. Such information make an effective tool for understanding the sense of justice.
Article presents views, experience of those who are devoted, dedicated to the application of art therapy for people in advanced old age, and seeks to highlight the importance, usefulness of psychotherapeutic methods in social work. Based on the belief generally positive impact the healing arts for people late in life in social service.
The report focuses on the existence of deprivation in households and resulting polarization in chosen locations of the region Žilina. The relationship between the rate of people who admit their Romani nationality and the level of deprivation in households was investigated through statistical analysis. There were also taken into account selected social-economic indicators in individual residential units in towns Liptovský Mikuláš, Ružomberok and Žilina.
The thesis discusses the application of transactional analysis (TA) in the field of marketing research. In its theoretical construct it focuses on linking the marketing communication hierarchy of effects models with structural analysis of TA. It points out one of the possible interpretative frameworks that explains the behaviour of target groups and their response to marketing stimuli that take place on a psychological level. Through mapping the activation of mental states of Ego (Parent, Adult, Child) it reflects the aspects of the reception and processing of marketing communications initiatives as well as decision-making process that can result in the purchase of promoted products or services.
The assumption under the discourse is an attempt to indicate personal beliefs of an individual concerning own competencies or their lack with regard to the work performed as a determinant of efficiency in helping professions. The explanation of notions: beliefs, competencies, occupational burn-out, emotions have been rooted in psychological, pedagogical and sociological context. The matters touched upon pertain to issues of social importance owing to the role of education in the contemporary, demanding reality of a modern state. The subject matter of considerations is to draw attention of the reader to this form of education/development, which enables to trigger the readiness to change in oneself, the courage to create, be creative, which is not an easy task, especially for social workers.
The first considerations regarding increasing media competencies as part of a persons standard education in post-modern society first emerged in post-war Europe. Currently, the topic of media education is implemented into the content of general education in most European countries. This issue is mostly integrated into compulsory subjects, in some countries it is a cross-cutting theme in several subjects, and in some other countries increasing media competencies is part of extracurricular education. The situation is differentiated in individual countries with the longest experience and highest results in Europe, so far, being in Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian countries.
Life transit in senior age and limits on social communication, can be seen in the context of social situation of seniors and in the context of their personal situation. What is life transit in the senior age? How are people prepared for the possible survival of intimacy loneliness, and sometimes also on psychological and social isolation?
Reminds one of forms of discrimination, seniors now, which is unsuitable way of social interaction. Patronizing social communication is becoming a serious obstacle to self-expression in the elderly. It is also an adequate barrier to their socio-psychological adaptation and integrity of their personality.
The paper is focused on the quality of health care in connection with the providing of social services in Slovakia. For 13 years, the author has dedicated herself to the quality of social services that provide health care. Social care facilities in the Slovakia provided health care to their clients without legislative background and quality control system. Therefore we see possibilities of improvement in this area.
The paper is focused on the quality of social services and the presentation of the Quality of Service program in social services based on the objectives of the National Quality Program Strategy of Slovak Republic for the period 2013-2016 for social welfare.
The paper offers an overview concerning cultural dimensions in organization in general, and specifies cultural impacts on commercial and social sector. Based on comparisons, the paper suggests three important areas in development management of organizations which provide social services.
Provides a picture of the new post by legislative changes in the law of the Slovak Republic on crisis intervention and crisis intervention services. Offers a theory of coping with crisis intervention and defines its objectives.
In this paper we justify the need for a strong entry practical social help in the interest of the spiritual, psychological and social active adaptation and socialization and rehabilitation of living forces people today.
We start form the innovative concept of educational social work, including educational social counseling, guiding and educational help, which we formulated and published in two monographs copyright: Preventive social work (Prešov: University of Prešov, 2013) and Educational social work (Prešov: University of Prešov, 2014).
The author of the economic approach of looking at life through which we can analyze social problems in the broad areas of life is a Nobel laureate in Economics, Gary S. Becker (* 02.12.1930 - † 03.05.2014). Economic view of life and human behavior based on the full acceptance of the premise that the individuals do not act selfishly with emphasis solely on profit, but their decisions and preferences are influenced by many factors such as history, family, altruism, selfishness, education, health, income, ability to predict consequences of their own decisions, life chances and so on.


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We are just back from our final summer trip, and the last of our traditional it-isn't-summer-without-it trips: Stratford. Only this year it was a little different. Jon was headed in that direction to present his company's summer lecture series in a few different towns, and rather than have him go and come and go again, we tagged along with him for his week of work preceding our weekend theater tickets. This was a new thing for us, and one which required a lot of planning and a little getting used to. Let's just say that to make a tagalong trip successful, one really only need add pools.
Yes, throughout the week, while Jon was busy presenting to adoring masses of piano teachers (autographs are a common request, I kid you not), Calvin and I were busy becoming hotel pool connoisseurs. This was where the planning came in, because we had to make sure that the hotels Jon booked had pools to begin with, then we had to organize our time so that Calvin and I could take advantage of said pools while Jon worked, keeping in mind check-out times. It ended up with Calvin and I showering, throwing things in suitcases, and dashing out of hotel rooms just before the noon bell chimed, only to spend the next hour lounging in the lobby on our suitcases, eating lunches packed from the family cooler. It was a nifty system, once we got the hang of it, which was, oh, about Jon's last day of presentations.
So pool connoisseurs we have become, but we also made good use of travel time between cities, for though Jon was working, we ended up spending his family time in the afternoons, sight-seeing on the road, and reserving the evenings and nights (and mornings, of course) for work. Like I said, we really got our stuff together by about the last day, but we had a good time doing it, and we saw a lot of things—cities, and pools, and gardens, and shacks, and pools, and rain showers, and sunshine, and did I mention pools? All on our way to one of our favorite summer destinations: Stratford.
There were a lot of stops, and there are a lot of pictures (many from the phone this time, too, because so often I found myself in a place where I never expected to want pictures, then was glad to have the phone—which is good, because that's why we got it).
Day one is always the worst: the most driving combined with the most eagerness and the most impatience. That, and we got a little lost in Windsor when the money exchange was closed (how on earth do they expect people to spend money in their nightclub dives without a money exchange???), but we got it together eventually, then rewarded ourselves with root beer floats at a rest area (note to U.S. road commission: get A&Ws in the rest areas stat).
Day two saw a lot more action. Pool notes first: pool number one was warm and was a great size, but it was in the hotel basement and felt a little secluded.
After swimming all morning we did our first shower-and-pack dash, then ate lunch and read in the lobby. It was actually kind of relaxing. Toronto was less so, but since we've become regular visitors to Chicago, we didn't find the city as taxing as some might. We found the CN Tower almost as underwhelming as the beer at the Steam Whistle Brewing, but enjoyed the trains at the Toronto Railway Museum.
Day three. The pool was actually pretty great, except that two hours of the morning it was being used for swim aerobics and water workouts for the (elderly? geriatric? local old folks?). We were still welcome to partake of the pool's wateryness, but there wasn't any room for us to swim, so instead we hung out in the deep end, getting a kick out of the collected grumpiness that filled the rest of the pool.
The afternoon was more successful. After our lunch/reading time in the hotel lobby, we all stopped at the Royal Botanical Gardens where we found bees, chipmunks, and a long dead and burried horse, but not as many flowers as one might expect. We stopped at three of their garden sites and their quaint tea house before heading to our final pre-Stratford stop, London (where our hotel looked delightfully like a castle).
Day four. The best pool yet, in part because it was really three pools in a fun atrium setting, but also because we stayed two nights there, so we had two full mornings to swim. Plus the hotel, in addition to being awesome because it looked like a castle, had a fascinating interior, including putt putt golf.
An added benefit of our castle hotel was its downtown London location, which allowed us to go for afternoon and evening walks between rainshowers.
Day five: probably our best day outside of Stratford. On day five we enjoyed the castle hotel pool one last time before shoving off for the Fanshawe Pioneer Village. This is a quaint collection of old buildings (and some replicas), assembled roughly in the order of a timeline, yet somehow also in the shape of a town. We started off at a mid-1800s log cabin and moved through several other buildings from that era before entering the late 1800s, then the early 1900s. Along the way we saw demonstrations of varying sorts—blacksmith, wood working, sheep, an osprey, even a groundhog (okay, those last three weren't exactly demonstrations). We also met a period actor who was delighted to know that we were enjoying ourselves, even as frequenter visitors of Greenfield Village, and we got to see real live Indian Runner Ducks. We had a great time. I have only one warning: don't bother with the food.
Day five was also Jon's first day of actual vacation, and the day that we finally arrived in Stratford. It's hard for me to explain or describe our love affair with this town. The natives there are short of friendly, everything is overpriced, and getting service anywhere is difficult. But over the years we've come to look forward to our time there, staying in the family-owned motel with the perfectly quaint breakfasts, going for walks along the man-made "Avon" and talking to all the entitled water fowl, eating hand-dipped soft serve like you've never had anywhere else at Jenn & Larry's, and, of course, taking in the expertly produced plays (this year? The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and As You Like It).
can you spot the two baby bunnies in the open grass?
wine sippy cups at intermission...


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Eyeshadow must haves for tan brown skintone and Step by step eye makeup tutorial for beginners - BeautyLashes19
Are you a beginner in eye makeup? In this video, I am sharing what I consider a good eyeshadow starter kit for beginners with tan brown skintone. I also show a step by step tutorial on how to achieve this eye makeup look using the eyeshadows I've chosen for the kit. Finally, I also share …
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