text:
On the Red Carpet reports that Zachary Levi and his [easyazon-link asin="B003TJM5RK"]Less Than Perfect[/easyazon-link] co-stars will reunite during tonight's episode of Dancing with the Stars to support contestant Andy Dick, who played Owen on the series.
Sara Rue, Zachary Levi and other actors who starred on the comedy series "Less Than Perfect" are set to reunite on the ABC ballroom dancing show on Monday, March 25, to support fellow sitcom alum and contestant Andy Dick, OTRC.com has learned exclusively.
This will mark the first full cast reunion since the comedy ended its four-season run in 2006. Dick played Owen Kronsky, Claude's friend and co-worker.
I'm torn about this news… Less Than Perfect was Must See TV for me back in the day, and knowing Zac from that series led me to support Chuck before it premiered, but DWTS was our ratings nemesis for four seasons of Chuck! And I've never been able to sit through an episode. See? Conflicted.
Oh, who am I kidding, of course I'll tune in for this reunion.
Thanks to Corinne for the head's up!


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YAY! As tyger- me- happy brought to my attention, today is the year anniversary of when I published this story. I still feel it is my best work, and I am so glad that you like it. My hopes for being a writer have increased tenfold because of your feedback. Enjoy this chapter.
BEWARE- this chapter isn't chaste. In fact, it contains a bit of sex.
Elladan knocked on the heavy door to his father's chambers. The half Elf had disappeared, and at first, the raven haired being thought that Elrond had left to escape the pain of Estel vanishing. But now, it had been nearly a week, and Elladan, though he dreaded it, knew he had to talk to Lenwe.
When Lenwe did not answer, Elladan opened the door, which was unlocked. He was met with the disgusting sight of the tutor leaning over the ruler of Imladris' desk, right over another Elf. He was fully clothed, it seemed, from the back, but the tell tale grunts and whimpers told the story.
Lenwe whirled around, gathered his robes around him, pushed the servant off of the desk, and approached Elladan, who was seething.
"First you take my father's heart, go to his bed to comfort him without love, and now you are...having these escapades on his desk! You are unfathomable!"
Lenwe smirked as he ran the back of his hand over his moist forehead. He moved his hands up to fix his tousled hair, smoothing the twists and swiftly braiding a large one.
"How would you even know of your foolish father when all you and your damn brother do is patrol, hunting for Orcs to kill to try to avenge your stupid mother?" he murmured, and an air of satisfaction colored his voice.
Elladan drew his sword which was buckled to his belt, kicked Lenwe down and held it to his throat.
"Don't ever speak of my mother that way. She loved my father and was better than you can ever hope to be. I've had enough. I'm having you thrown in the dungeons."
With that, Elladan put his foot on Lenwe's velvet clad chest and sheathed his sword, only to take it off of his belt and knock out the Elf with its hilt.
"This is for my Ada and Nana," he whispered, and then left the room to find his twin.
Waking up the next morning, Estel was thirsty. Legolas still lay in his arms, breathing slowly and evenly, but then almost instantly after Estel yawned and truly woke up, Legolas' eyes cleared.
Estel was puzzled at first, but just smiled at the lovely creature in his arms. "Good morning, my love."
Legolas returned the soft smile and sat up and stretched. He then kissed Estel gently.
"Thank you for holding me last night...I just needed-"
"To relax and unwind. I know, and I understand," Estel finished for him. "I feel like last night was...scared, between us. I feel even more intimately connected to you..."
Legolas nodded and wrapped his arms around the young man. "Every night when we are together is sacred. Let's go for a walk...I care not if the spiders wander into the safe garden above the caves- I must have fresh air!"
Thranduil was the first to become aware that morning, and snuggled closer to the warmth behind him. He then turned over to kiss the sleeping face, but then remembered; it was centuries after his affair with Elrond, and this was only for comfort.
The King flinched as he felt twinges of a headache begin around his temples, most likely from screaming at Elrond yesterday and crying. Feeling ashamed of how he had acted, he left the bed and walked slowly to his bathroom, but stopped when he heard Elrond whimper.
He turned around, and was shocked to see Elrond reaching for his form in the bed. "Don't go," Elrond muttered incoherently, "Don't leave me..."
Thranduil nearly broke down and was going to go back to the bed, but he turned once more and opened the door to his bathroom. Looking in his medicine cabinet, he found some herbs used for treating headaches. He stuck a few dried sprigs in his mouth and sucked on them, not minding the slightly bitter taste.
He left the bathroom, and Elrond's eyes had closed again. Even after the years of sleeping together, Thranduil still hated to see Elrond's eyes close when he slept. He had grown up with Elves who slept with their eyes open, and he remembered the first time after they had made love, and Elrond had fallen asleep.
Thranduil turned to put out the candle with a shaky hand. He turned once more to say goodnight to his soul mate, and panicked when Elrond's eyes were no longer open.
"Elrond! Open your eyes!" he whispered loudly, hoping his didn't wake up the rest of the camp. Immediately, sleepy blue eyes became visible.
"Thranduil, calm yourself...I'm a half Elf, I sleep with my eyes closed when I'm exhausted." There was a bit of mischief in those last words, and Thranduil's breathing calmed as he smiled.
"Go to sleep, vanimaer." (beautiful one.)
Estel opened the door to Legolas' chambers and walked inside, throwing his cloak over a chair before stretching his arms toward the sky. Legolas followed shortly after, also took off the heavy layer of clothing and walked up behind the boy. He slowly wrapped his strong arms around the smaller form and was delighted when Estel didn't flinch.
The Elf's breath gently blew into Estel's ear, and the young man put his own hands on Legolas' larger ones around his waist. A feeling of peace and calm descended onto the two beings, and the stars in the black sky twinkled with a renewed light.
"I love you," Legolas whispered, and kissed the top of the boy's ear. He squeezed the warm body closer to his own, relishing the feeling of having his world tucked safely in his arms.
Estel turned around. "I love you, my angel," he replied, and tilted his face up slightly to catch Legolas' lips in a kiss. The kiss was long and luxurious, speaking of gentleness and certain hidden desires. Legolas slipped his tongue into Estel's mouth slightly, taking it slowing and exploring the warm cavern. The heir of Gondor's own tongue began massaging the Prince's tentatively, and the two performed the ancient dance of passion.
Legolas broke this kiss, and he brought a hand up to cradle Estel's face. "I love you so much..." He latched his lips on Estel's once more for a few seconds tenderly.
Estel's eyes were half closed in bliss and he pressed up against Legolas until the two melded as one. "Make love to me," he said so softly with so much trust in his voice that it made Legolas' heart ache, but there was sensuality there as well that made it pound with desire.
The Elf kissed Estel's forehead. "Estel, we don't have to do anything..."
"No, please...I want this," Estel said, and his voice was low. He eyes held no fear, only a bit of apprehension and curiosity. "I trust you with my life...and my body. I want to feel like I'm one with you."
Legolas held Estel tighter and kissed him once more. "You want this," he realized and he softly stroked the small of Estel's back. "It is my greatest desire to show my love for you in that way." With that, Legolas lifted Estel's chin back with two fingers and began showering his neck with kisses and feline licks. Estel clutched to Legolas' shoulders and whimpered with pleasure.
Legolas stopped and looked at the boy in the eyes. "Tell me if I make you uncomfortable?" he asked, and the blue eyes were filled with concern ad desire.
"Of course...please, do that again..."
Legolas smiled softly and went back to the smooth column of skin, while running his hands down Estel's chest soothingly. He picked up the boy with ease, and Estel wrapped his legs around his waist as Legolas carried in to his bed. He laid him down gently, and lay beside him. Estel's eyes were wide and questioning, and Legolas' calm, caring gaze of adoration made him feel secure.
Legolas moved to unlace Estel's outer tunic, but instantly refrained when Estel sucked in his breath sharply.
Estel looked ashamed at his actions and looked away from Legolas, but Legolas quietly asked for him to look at him.
"We don't have to do this, Estel. I will never love you any less..." Legolas spoke softly and gently, and stroked Estel's long chestnut hair. Estel brought up a hand to clasp Legolas'.
"I want this, but...I'm afraid I will think of...of..."
"Shh," Legolas whispered, and cradled Estel in his arms. "He hurt you, Estel. What he did to you was not making love. It was rape, it was just mindless sex...when two are joined together so intimately in love...it's utter beauty." Legolas easily understood Estel's fears and conflicted feelings, and wanted nothing more than for the boy to be comfortable. It would break his heart if he knew that he hurt the boy.
Estel met his eyes with tears in his own. "Thank you...thank you so much for loving me...you are so important to me..."
Legolas embraced the boy. "You are my life."
Estel kissed Legolas with all of his heart, his passion renewed and his fears greatly diminished. Legolas' hands rested on his thighs, and when Legolas bit his lower lip, Estel thrust his hips toward Legolas' in want.
Legolas asked once more: "Do you truly want this?"
"Yes...please, show me what it is like to trust and love..."
With that, Legolas kissed Estel and began to undo his robes.
Legolas woke later in the night after their passionate fire had burned and dimmed. He felt protected, sated, and perfectly in love. Estel's body still glistened with a thin sheen of sweat, his cheeks still had a flush to them, and Legolas felt entranced by the boy's trust for him. Making love with Estel had been...right. It had felt so utterly right. After crying out from the ultimate peak of pleasure and listening to Legolas' comforting whispers to let it out, Estel collapsed, asleep before he hit the soft mattress.
He now slept peacefully, and Legolas felt like the luckiest creature in the world.
Please reviw.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
One could teach an entire civics course on the immigration debate still winding its way through Congress, but no exchange is more symptomatic of our federal government's current dysfunction than the following discussion between conservative talk radio host Hugh Hewitt and Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., about the immigration bill's provisions concerning the border fence.
Hewitt: "I've been through the law very carefully. ... They actually don't have to do anything. In fact, I was going to ask you, what if they don't turn in a strategy in 180 days? What's the law's penalty?"
Hoeven: "They'd be breaking the law."
Hewitt: "But what's the penalty?"
Hoeven: "Well, you'd obviously have to enforce the law ... I mean, that would be saying any law we passed, what if they don't bother to enforce it."
What if Congress passed a law and a president signed it, but then a future president chose to completely ignore that perfectly valid law? This is a question our legislators fail to ask far too often.
This is not an issue confined to the immigration debate. It is an issue that has existed since the founding of the Republic and has been growing in importance as the size and scope of our federal government also grows. And it has reached a crisis point during Obama's presidency.
Obama is far from the first president to stretch the law to meet his own political ends. In fact, just weeks before Obama was sworn into office, the outgoing President George W. Bush used the Troubled Asset Relief Program to bail out General Motors and Chrysler.
Never mind that TARP was passed by Congress for the express purpose of buying specific types of "troubled assets" from near-insolvent banks to prevent a financial panic. Bush's auto bailout took that authority and used it to turn TARP into a general slush fund for politically favored businesses.
And there was nothing anyone in Congress, or the rest of America, could do about it.
The Executive Branch's casual disregard for the rule of law has only skyrocketed since Obama took office.
Congress can't come to an agreement on how to renew the No Child Left Behind federal education law? No problem, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will just unilaterally rewrite it.
Obama doesn't like the Defense of Marriage Act? No problem. He just won't enforce it or defend it in court.
Obama wants to bomb Libya but doesn't want to bother finding the votes in Congress? No problem. He'll just completely ignore the War Powers Act.
And then, of course, there is immigration.
After Congress failed to pass the Dream Act, which would have granted amnesty to any illegal immigrant who could produce evidence they had entered the country before they turned 16, Obama simply bypassed Congress and implemented the failed legislation through executive fiat.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have since sued Obama to force him to let them enforce the law as written. But it took months of litigation to establish that these officers even had the standing to challenge Obama in court, a feat that an average citizen could never hope to accomplish on their own.
The lesson from all of this is that no American, especially no United States Senator, should ever trust the executive branch to enforce any law, ever.
Hewitt's question is the first question any legislator, or citizen, should ask when considering a new regulatory scheme: But what's the penalty if the Executive Branch fails to enforce it?
The best solution, especially as our country becomes more polarized, is to devolve as many governmental powers and responsibilities to the states as possible.
But that isn't possible for a truly national issue like immigration. In those cases, legislators should look to include strong citizen suit provisions, like the one in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), that is currently holding up the Keystone XL pipeline.
If trust in the federal government was higher than it is today, immigration reform would have already sailed through Congress. But the American people do not trust the federal government right now, nor should they.
That trust can only be rebuilt piece by piece, and ensuring that Americans have more tools to hold the executive branch accountable, is an essential first step.


text:
Israeli startup VI recently launched what it calls a "Klout score based on your personality."
When users install the app, it asks them to rank all of their Facebook friends using a list of 40 positive adjectives it supplies.
"For more than a decade, the web has taken more and more steps to expose the identity behind the user. Facebook has given people a profile, and now VI exposes people's true personality on the web," VI said in a statement.
The ranking system markets itself as a way for users to take control of their online reputation by entrusting their friends to write positive reviews of them. On the other hand, VI promises accuracy because all personality reviews are constructed anonymously.
Personality rankings have met with some resistance on the Web (this site, from developer performance artist Tom Scott as a case in point). Critics have targeted Klout in particular as little more than a popularity contest.
VI can also work as a self-improvement analytics tracker, the company says. Users can compare rankings in particular categories to their friends' and celebrities' and use the ratings to target their efforts at self-improvement.


text:
While I've been reading the Russian-authored titles from the Art of the Novella series in chronological order, I haven't been posting on them that way. The two earliest, Alexander Pushkin's The Tales of Belkin and Nikolai Gogol's How the Two Ivans Quarrelled were re-reads for me, so I saved them for Friday and gave you an early taste of Turgenev and Dostoevsky this week. Now, backwards a bit.
The Tales of Belkin, published in 1831, were Pushkin's first prose work, and consist of five stories allegedly written by Ivan Petrovich Belkin, a recently deceased landowner who dabbled in writing. They are supposed to have been told to him, in turn, each by a different acquaintance. The first of these, "The Shot," could have made Melville House's subset of "The Duel" novellas into a sextet if only it had been otherwise named, and it ended up pairing very well with my recent read of Joseph Conrad's novella of that name.
The narrator—not Belkin, but lieutenant-colonel I.L.P., according to the "letter from the publisher" opening the collection, is stationed in a very small town where the soldiers have almost no one else for company. The only one in their circle who isn't currently in the army is retired from it, and lives in a "shack" whose walls are riddled with bullets. He has a very expensive set of pistols and is a dead shot. But when, during a game of cards, a new arrival throws a brass candlestick at him, Silvio inexplicably refuses to challenge him to a duel. Where in Conrad's tale we are mostly focused on the less romantic duellist, D'Hubert, who will accept the social dictates that require him to behave honorably and duel, here Pushkin/Belkin/I.L.P. gives a window onto the more romantic notions of people like the narrator, who is horrified that Silvio's antagonist is still alive a few days after the incident.
Out of all of us, I was the only one who had a hard time warming to him [Silvio] again. Possessing as I did a naturally romantic imagination, I had felt an unusual connection to this man whose life was a riddle, and who seemed to me to be the hero of a secret tale. He had been fond of me too; at least, it was only in my presence that he dropped his curt manner and talked about things simply and even courteously. But after that unhappy night, the idea that his honor had been sullied, and that he himself had allowed the stain to remain—this idea refused to leave me alone, and prevented me from relaxing with him as I had before. I was ashamed to look at him. …From that point on, I encountered him only among fellow officers, and the intimate conversations we'd had before ended.
The grinding gears of social mores laid bare! The narrator doesn't just drop his friend because the dictates of "honor" say that he should. He actually perceives a "stain" and is too troubled by it—ashamed himself, on his friend's behalf most likely—to continue their relationship. Meanwhile, it turns out that Silvio is painfully aware of such things himself, and is probably as hot-blooded as D'Hubert's opponent, carrying on another duel over a period of years.
How the Two Ivans Quarrelled, a story of many similar titles, was first published in 1835 in the collection Mirgorod, and falls under the "Ukrainian Tales" heading in the Pevear and Volokhonsky transltion of The Collected Tales of Nikolai Gogol, where I first read it. This is at least somewhat important, because the main attraction of the two Ivans, and much Gogol, is the narrator, who is very intrusive, a bit silly, obsessed with details, and something of a Ukrainian village busybody (but in Mirgorod, it seems almost everyone is). This one is the classic neighborly feud: two men who start out as the best of friends get in an argument about trivialities and end up in a years-long lawsuit that disrupts their whole lives. Certainly, the tale is in the telling here.
One of my favorite things about Gogol and this narrator, or type of narrator (who's to say it's always the same one?), is his obsession with food. I want to re-read Dead Souls just for the suckling pig. Here, the best comes toward the end, when the most prominent townspeople make an effort to reconcile the two Ivans at a party. The passage really gives the flavor—pun quite intended—of Gogol.
Meantime, the fragrance of the beet-soup was wafted through the apartment, and tickled the nostrils of the hungry guests very agreeably. All rushed headlong to table. The line of ladies, loquacious and silent, thin and stout, swept on, and the long table soon glittered with all the hues of the rainbow. I will not describe the courses: I will make no mention of the curd dumplings with sour cream, nor of the dish of pig's fry that was served with the soup, nor of the turkey with plums and raisins, nor of the dish which greatly resembled in appearance a boot soaked in kvas, nor of the sauce, which is the swan's song of the old-fashioned cook, nor of that other dish which was brought in all enveloped in the flames of spirit, and amused as well as frightened the ladies extremly. I will say nothing of these dishes, because I lke to eat them better than to spend many words in discussing them.
This translation, by John Cournos, is good, though Pevear and Volokhonsky do have "borscht" for "beet-soup" and other similar differences. (Melville House's edition of Belkin is translated by Josh Billings.) And in fact, except perhaps the sauce, and maybe "that other dish" (which is, in P&V, the sauce itself, confusingly), I don't really want to eat much of it. But I don't mind at all how many words someone wants to spend discussing it.


text:
Highland, Michigan (PressExposure) June 28, 2013 -- The service technicians with Ortega's are upsetting the competition with their growing appliance repair website. The website shares nearly two dozen articles on various types of appliance repair that an average homeowner can do to avoid having to make a service call.
Some would call this crazy, but it makes great sense to owner Manny Ortega. Manny explains, "I would rather help people diagnose and repair simple things so I am available for the more difficult problems. People are embarrassed when I come in and plug in the appliance or reset a circuit breaker. This is a waste of my time and their valuable money."
The Albuquerque NM Appliance Repair website has articles for clothes dryers, washing machines, refrigerators, garbage disposals, dishwashers, trash compactors, and more. The group of articles also grows monthly.
Repair technicians with Ortega's receive expert training from the manufacturers on how to repair their appliances. In some cases, the training is at one of the manufacturers facilities, sometimes the training is at a national convention such as the 2013 Association of Servicers Training Institute (ASTI) convention sponsored by the United Servicers Association (USA). Ongoing training is critical for quality repairs and service technician safety.
Visit [http://www.albuquerquenmappliancerepair.com] to learn more about this Albuquerque NM appliance repair firm.
About Ortega's Appliance Service Today, Inc:
Manny Ortega operates Ortega's Appliance Service Today, Inc. Since 1975, their factory trained technicians have provided appliance repair. Types of appliance repair include: refrigerator repair, freezer repair, clothes washer repair, front load clothes washer repair, dryer repair, dishwasher repair, microwave oven repair, stove / oven / ranges / cook top repair, trash compactor repair, garbage disposal repair, and ice maker repair.
Manny Ortega
Ortega's Appliance Service Today, Inc.
P.O. Box 31006
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87190
Phone: (505) 884-9177
Submitted By: Right Now Marketing Group, LLC
Right Now Marketing Group, LLC,
1655 Highland Park Drive,
Highland - 48356,
Michigan, United States,
Phone: (+1) - 5866041509,
E-Mail: email@example.com


text:
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Perforated Paper - Flourish Rose
Mill Hill
$6.00 $5.39 + $3.39 shipping within the U.S.
(1 review)
In Stock. Usually ships in 1-2 business days.
Item: PP505 - Type: Craft Supplies.
2 sheets of 14ct. paper per package (slight color variations may occur)Size: 9" x 12". Designed by Jim Shore.
123Stitch.com ships via the U.S. Postal Service to anywhere in the world. Orders to the U.S. typically arrive 3-5 days after we ship.
Shipping charges are shown in your shopping cart every time you add an item.
If you are not completely satisfied with any of our products, you can return it to us within 30 days for a full refund.
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on 09/02/2014 - flourish rose perforated paper
this is ok. Not a true rose pink, which is what it looks like online. It is closer to a raspberry color. Does stitch up well if you are very careful with the thread colors.
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text:
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF) reported quarterly earnings of $1.42 per diluted share, which included a $0.06 per share impact related to a favorable coal rate case adjustment. This compared to third-quarter 2008 earnings of $1.99 per diluted share.
"During the recession, BNSF has demonstrated significant operating leverage through ongoing dedication to controlling costs and productivity improvements," said Matthew K. Rose, BNSF Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "The combination of our significant operating leverage and long-term market opportunities places BNSF in a strong position when the economy recovers."
Third-quarter 2009 freight revenues decreased $1.28 billion, or 27%, to $3.49 billion compared with $4.77 billion in the prior year. The 27-percent decrease in revenues included a decrease in fuel surcharges of $725 million. The remaining variance was due to 17% lower unit volumes as a result of the economic downturn, partially offset by improved yields.
Coal revenues were down $107 million, or 10%, to $940 million on lower unit volumes driven by soft demand due to economic conditions and mild summer weather, partially offset by a favorable coal rate case adjustment and improved yields. Agricultural Products revenues declined $194 million, or 21%, to $715 million on lower unit volumes predominately driven by reduced domestic loadings and international grain shipments. Industrial Products revenues of $747 million were $377 million, or 34% lower than the third quarter of 2008, due primarily to lower unit volumes, driven by lower demand for construction and building products, partially offset by improved yields. Consumer Products revenues decreased $599 million, or 36%, to $1.09 billion, on lower international intermodal, domestic intermodal and automotive volumes due to economic conditions. Revenue was also impacted in each of the business units because of lower fuel surcharges.
Operating expenses for the third quarter of 2009 declined $1.01 billion, or 27%, to $2.69 billion, compared with third-quarter 2008 operating expenses of $3.70 billion. About half of the $1.01 billion reduction was due to lower fuel prices, with the remainder due to strong cost controls and decreased unit volumes.
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation's subsidiary BNSF Railway Company operates one of the largest North American rail networks, with about 32,000 route miles in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF Railway Company is among the world's top transporters of intermodal traffic, moves more grain than any other American railroad, carries the components of many of the products we depend on daily, and hauls enough low-sulfur coal to generate about 10% of the electricity produced in the United States.


text: can someone code up a thing that looks at the discuss mailing list traffic and measures what portion of it is drama? it should be easy. a human will have to declare threads to be drama or not, and if they are, and the total traffic for the week exceeds a certain percentage (say 50%) the moderation automatically chokes off any further posts on any of those threads until the percentage cuts back down. i view the discuss list on the web portal like this: https://www.noisebridge.net/pipermail/noisebridge-discuss/2012-May/date.html#end and as you can see, it's really hard to find the hacking-related posts. -jake


text:
Cold Sweat
It's a nice air conditioner, Dave, but you're kind of defeating the purpose of this sweat lodge.
I get it, I get it. You really get used to the way the Sharp Portable Air Conditioner cools down a warm room. It just, you know, makes a little less sense when the room is supposed to be warm.
Nobody enjoys sitting around the house sweating, I hear you. But we came here precisely so we could sweat. I mean, it's right there in the name "sweat lodge". The intense heat and steam is supposed to produce visions of deep meaning and spiritual intensity. The way that Sharp Portable Air Conditioner is pumping out the cool air, I can barely get a little underarm dampness going, let alone get in touch with my inner trickster coyote.
Don't worry about it at this point, I guess. Just maybe leave the air conditioner at home the next time our souls embark on a sacred odyssey of self-discovery. And hey, could you turn off that boombox? I like Kelly Clarkson as much as the next guy, but it's not really helping the whole spiritual-type vibe.


text:
Hello, world! This blog began on September 28, 2007, and so far nobody has come looking for me
with tar and feathers. On my honor, I will do my best not to bore you. All comments are welcome
as long as your discourse is civil and your language is not blue.
Happy reading, and come back often!
And whether my cup is half full or half empty, fill my cup, Lord.
Copyright 2007 - 2017 by Robert H.Brague
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
It is also the name of a domino game people in Texas played when I was a kid. They still do. Not the same people, of course. It has bids and trumps and is something like bridge. I have never heard of it ever being played anywhere else.
It will be, for a few more weeks, the age of the youngest of my three children.
But I have devoted a whole post to the number 42 for one reason and one reason only. As of a couple of days ago, it is the number of official followers of this blog. Unofficially, however, there are at least 17,643 of you lurking about. I can feel it in my bones.
At the rate I am gaining official followers, I should be able to give a victory speech in a park in Chicago in about three or four million years.
10 comments:
- Jinksy said...
I love the number 42, for who wouldn't adore the answers to life, the universe and everything?
- November 30, 2010 at 8:59 AM
- Putz said...
all the4 poopleple that i live around tyhink that the MORMON church has any answer you need to life the universe and EVERYTHING<><<>OF COURSE ME BEING AN ALIEN MYSELF I QUESTION THAT
- November 30, 2010 at 10:02 AM
- Yorkshire Pudding said...
As an unashamedly unofficial follower of "Rhymes With Plague" may I say that Fox Mulder, one of the main characters in The X-Files lived in Apartment 42 at 2630 Hegal Place, Alexandria, Virginia. So there! Also ever heard of the formerly pretty successful English band - Level 42? They're worth listening to.
- November 30, 2010 at 10:45 AM
- rhymeswithplague said...
Jinksy, if only it were that simple.
Putz, I found a great quotation recently (but I don't know its source):
The opposite of faith is not doubt; the opposite of faith is certainty.
Y.P., as they used to say in Texas and other parts of the southern U.S., do tell!
- November 30, 2010 at 4:29 PM
- A Lady's Life said...
so funny.
Just enjoy your blog . Thats the most important thing.
- December 1, 2010 at 1:34 AM
- Pat - Arkansas said...
42 Skiddoo!! My youngest was 49 this year. Of course, I'm much older than you. :)
- December 1, 2010 at 11:34 AM
- A Lady's Life said...
I looked up the painting and Yes that is a good painting by Millet although seems it was criticized.
I don't know why. When you need to,you do what you have to do to survive. Better than stealing.
I remember the adults using wooden barrels for their salted cabbage.
Every fall they would get this shredder and do it by hand everyone pitching in.Those used to be good times cause people all had something tho do and compare. Today you just go to the store and take what they give you and no one knows what or how it's prepared.
- December 1, 2010 at 6:09 PM
- rhymeswithplague said...
Pat, don't you mean 23 Skiddoo? (My mother used to say that). As for your being "much older" than moi, I have but one word: NOT!
A Lady's Life, I understand your comment because I had gone to your blog and left a comment on the one with the painting of the woman churning butter by Jean Francois Millet, but I'm afraid none of my other readers will.
Cross-blog commenting makes me dizzy.
- December 1, 2010 at 8:23 PM
- Shooting Parrots said...
I am a follower who occasionally goes astray, but if you want to make you son feel better about his age, tell him he is only 30 if he doesn't count weekends.
On a darker a note, there was a woman in Croatia who sat dead in front of her tv for 42 years.
- December 2, 2010 at 5:40 AM
- rhymeswithplague said...
Shooting, if it's my daughter and not my son, will that make a difference?
That woman whose body was found in Croatia died in Yugoslavia and yet you say nothing had changed?
The real question, though, is how many people alive today have been sitting dead in front of their tv for 42 years?
- December 2, 2010 at 8:51 AM


text:
Posting in General Chat thread. 11/11/2017it has been noted that too many Members are posting messages in the General Chat area instead of the correct Forums. Any messages posted in the General Chat area that are not General Chat will be deleted without warning and offenders may recieve warning points if repeated instances are seen from that Member. There are plenty of different Club areas that encompass 99% of Ford related posts, please select and use the correct one. If anyone is not sure of which area to post something then feel free to P/M myself or other Senior Staff for guidance. The Moderating Staff are having to spend far too much time chasing this problem instead of maintaining the other areas of the forum.
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Ford Focus Power Issues
crazyshelby replied to crazyshelby's topic in Ford Focus ClubOk thanks for that msg. At present the problem seems to be very intermittent, so I'm hoping it is piping etc rather than the turbo going!
Ford Focus Power Issues
crazyshelby posted a topic in Ford Focus ClubHi All, I originally posted this back in April 2014, so thank you for everyone who has tried to help regarding my issues. Old story back in April:- Last year I purchased a Ford Focus 56 plate 2.0 litre TDCI for 2k. Although the mileage was 150k, the car looked to be in good condition overall as mainly it was used for long motorway trips. I started experiencing issues a few months after purchase. When driving along, as I put my foot down suddenly there was very little power. I could hardly accelerate and instantly a warning light came on. This was diagnosed via the mechanics computer, as the diesel particular filter being blocked. I appreciate this can be a very expensive issue, if you need a new filter. Speaking to a local garage, I was given the option of a 'regen' which although sounding quite bad for the engine etc I decided to go ahead with. A few weeks after I was losing power again, however I never saw the diesel filter issue come back on. Instead I was greeted with an engine management light showing the car had gone into 'limp mode'. After a few limp modes and clearing codes with the garage, I put the focus in for a full service. The mechanic replaced all the oil, filters etc and it passed the MOT. After a lot of looking he found that one of the hoses attached to the engine/turbo area had come undone. With all the work, I thought the car issues had been sorted for a while. What I will say at this point is that I have a full service history with the car. However there are no lists as to what work has been carried out over the years. So as it stands, I don't know whether cam belt, gearbox,etc etc has been touched... A common thread to my problems came back with 'Blanking plate in the EGR valve. I fitted this and found that between April and October of this year, yes I had the yellow warning light on for the engine (which I have heard is common due to the plate) but the car ran fine. Story now:- Every week I have been using a diagnostic machine to wipe the engine faults. However after a long trip to Skegvegas last week, I was presented with no warning lights for the first time. I found the car pulled better than it ever had. However I got in it this week to hear quite a strange hissing/squealing noise from the bonnet. This disappeared and I have lost performance again. I am getting the following error codes as per my attached msg through Torque app. P0490 - Powertrain P2263 - Turbo/Super charger boost system performance P0002 - Powertrain P120F - Powetrain NOW THE STRANGE PART:- For the first time I am also getting a red light error on the dash in the center display stating 'Engine Systems Fault'. This is the first time I've had this error, in all the times I have lost power. It keeps coming on and off and takes over the dash (can't look at mileage, fuel left etc)...This is now happening instead of the yellow engine light coming up! I've tried to attach a couple of pics to show what I mean. Appreciate this is long winded I apologise but I've tried to make it as clear as possible to help diagnose. Any help on what is going on/what to do next etc would be really appreciated! Thanks Paul
crazyshelby started following Ford Focus Power Issues
Ok thanks guys I will check the wiring, as long as the blanking plate is not doing any lasting damage
Hi Guys, Just with my latest update. I installed the blanking plate in the EGR pipe part. Everything was great for a few days. All the power I'd lost was there and the car was fine. About a week in, the engine warning light came on (which I was warned would happen). I carried on regardless. To look into the engine issues, I bought myself a OBDII adapter to plug in and bought the android software Torque. On running diags, I get a P0490 - Powertrain fault. This is the main fault I get every 2 - 3 days. However one day the car started stuttering and had a lost of power again. It registered a P2263 Powertrain Turbo/Super Charger Boost System Performance fault. Once I clear the codes, everything is fine but I find I am in the situation where I have to plug in/clear codes every few days. I just wondered if you guys thought I was potentially damaging the engine/car computer or whether I am fine to continue with this method? I don't know whether I can leave the OBDII adapter in all the time, or whether this will cause problems/battery drain? Thanks for any help again, always appreciate it Paul
Thanks Tmzy/Mick I have ordered a blanking plate to install and try
Would anyone recommend a EGR blanking plate?
Hi APJ, Thanks for the info, I will have a look into the EGR valve. I haven't had the car stall but feel like its struggling for revs sometimes and a bit stuttery (if thats a word).
Hi Mick, I can get the issue once in a couple of weeks and then suddenly 3 or 4 times in a week. Totally intermittent and I would say it comes more if I'm careful of my mileage/keeping revs down. If I keep revs up a bit like the regen procedure, the car seems much more responsive. When I lose all of the power, the car is still accelerating but very slowly along with alot of noise. No turbo there etc. Thanks I will have a look a the Obd boxes on lunch now. I would say it happens more in cold conditions than warm Thanks Paul
Hi Tmzy, Thanks for the reply, I think the next course of action is to have all the pipes checked etc. Thanks for the tip on the revving bit though I haven't tried that, will give it a go and see if we can see/smell anything. I do hope its not the clutch etc or something big. I don't get any gear slippage and seems to change fine. With doing just over 150k miles and no sign on the logbook of things like the clutch being changed in the past it could be anything. The power loss comes at totally random times. Yesterday I drove to work and I suddenly felt the power go. Then getting in the car 8 hours later it was fine. I've found today driving that the engine is very noisy while accelerating. Cheers Paul
Mick for some reason I took a video of the regen and can see the coding machine used. It was a Solus Snap On Diagnostics if this helps in any way. This fed back nearly a year ago that the diesel part filter was blocked initially. What I don't understand is if something has gone like the turbo etc, why does the car spring in to life sometimes after I've turned it off and on again? The machine can still get up to say 60-70mph but takes an age to get there with very high revs/little acceleration.
Mick the machine used was from a local garage, not Ford. It was a red and black machine (I know not very helpful) but I can't make out in the pic I have on my PC of a make etc Stoney, I had a full service and filters were all replaced, any other ideas? Thanks guys
Thanks Stoney871, I posted once however I kept getting 'Service unavailable' please try again. So I tried again as the server was showing as down. Then suddenly it showed as 11 posts and I couldn't remove them. Yes glow plugs would be right
I have changed my mechanic since last year after moving house and only used one diagnostic machine. The symptoms do seem very similar to what I experienced with the diesel particular, without the warning lights.
I don't know which machine was used apologises but I can try and find out
Hi Mick The mechanic used his machine a few months ago so I dont have the current codes. It was just a standard machine that came up with diesel particular filter blocked. At present the car almost feels like it is going into limp mode as before, however there are no lights etc showing up. I don't know if we plugged a machine in whether it would still show issues...


text: If you are in the mood to read something extremely, embarrassingly funny, you might pick up a copy of Fool, the latest book by Christopher Moore. On the surface this novel is a retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear told from the perspective of Pocket, the King's fool. Any accuracy or comparison to the original story would be unkind, so I suggest you consider this something brand new and singular– because it is; whether or not some of the character names are borrowed from another, more famous source. Furthermore, there are certain places I must recommend not reading Fool — anywhere public for instance. As it turns out, uncontrolled giggling and snickering on a metro bus still garners some stares and worried looks. Luckily this book is funny enough to make looking like a fool totally worth it. ~ Lindsay, Central Library


text:
Tips and recommendations for healthy travel to top destinations
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Twinrix is a vaccine that protects against both the hepatitis A and hepatitis B Virus. Three Twinrix vaccinations are required to complete the series. The second shot is given 30 days after the initial vaccination and the third shot is administered 6 months after the first. As a matter of convenience, Twinrix reduces the number of shots needed to complete both Hepatitis A and B series from 5 to only 3.
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Like the hepatitis A and B vaccines, Twinrix does require booster shots in order to be fully effective. According to Twinrix, one booster is needed at a month and another after six months. Twinrix booster vaccines are not needed in order to travel as the vaccine is effective within two weeks of the first dose. But, they should be given in order to have lifetime immunity to both hepatitis A and B.
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text:
The Logical Domains Configuration Assistant GUI is delivered as part of the Logical Domains zip bundle.
Ensure that the target system is running the Logical Domains 1.2 software and that your system is running at least version 1.6 of the JavaTM SE Runtime Environment.
To run the Configuration Assistant GUI from the command line, type the following:
$ java -jar "Configurator.jar"
This GUI tool includes on-screen documentation to help you create the configuration for your system.


text:
Rain / Another Start
- (Duplicated CD)
- Artist: Nouri & Vondrau
- Format: CD
- Release Date: 1/1/2009
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Rain/Another Start began life as a song (music only) on an chillout/house album by Nouri, it's original name was Timeless. Nouri was introduced to Mel Vondrau's vocals by listening to another producer's track and he flew to the UK immediately from Frankfurt Germany so as to seek her out. She met with him and sang over a few musical ideas he was interested in working on with her. Due to her recording and touring schedule the eventual project only took place a few months later. The 'Frankfurt Sessions' resulted in Rain/Another Start. Taking the original Timeless track, Mel Vondrau added lyrics and her own eclectic vocals and Nouri then mixed a sumptuous dance track for all ages to enjoy.


text:
This Christmas: To My Son
Dear Finley,
It's that time of year again.
The stores are crowded with people and, when we go outside for walks, we have to layer you up. Your little self is still used to Ugandan weather and so, it's taking a little getting used to, this take your breath away chill in the air. I bundle you in hats and coats and kiss your freezing cold cheeks as we run our errands. Baby on my hip. Smile on my face. You make me so happy, Finley. It takes a lot longer running errands with you, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Last year, I remember getting ready for Christmas and having a lump in my throat the whole time. Being on the edge of tears for reasons I couldn't explain in a sentence. I would wrap a present and think of you. Make cookies and wonder where you were. What you were doing that very instant. What name we would name you when you were with us.
It was only a few days until Christmas and suddenly I realized I had to get you your first ornament. I felt like such a bad mommy that I hadn't thought of it before. Even though you wouldn't be physically with us that year, you were being carried in my heart. each. and. every. day.
And so, all of a sudden, I threw myself into searching. It's all I could think about. I had to find you the perfect ornament. And, then, finally I found it.
This year, I didn't even have to think about what to get you for your first year with us. It was there in front of me, and it was perfect. A little sailboat made out of fabric for the little man who came all the way from across oceans to be with us. Our beautiful little man. Our Finley Asiimwe.
A few days ago, we laid under the Christmas tree, and I taught you how to stare up at the pretty lights and ornaments like me and my daddy used to do.
And, even though your little, you marveled.
You would look at the tree, look at me, and put your little finger back in your mouth, content to just stare. Pressing our heads together, we laid size by side. My arm around you. Both of us staring up. Enchanted. Enjoying the simpleness of life. We laid there until it was your bedtime and I had to pull you away. I love making memories. And, even though you may be too young to remember it, that night will always be one of my favorites.
I am so thankful for you, Finley, and everything you bring to your daddy and my life. We couldn't ask for a better Christmas present this year then you. We love you more then you know, little man, and I am so so happy and honored that God chose you to be our son. You are perfect to us in every single way.
I love you to the moon and back.
AbiQ, is married to the love of her life and best friend. They currently live in a snug little apartment in the east bay with their little man, Finley Asiimwe, and two pups, Lexi Louanne and Mr. Mogley Winchester. AbiQ and her husband man just brought their baby boy, Finn, home from Uganda last month.
When we reach 200 followers, there will be a giveaway for one lucky follower.
So, if you haven't done it already, join!
All This Time, We Were Waiting for Each Other; All This Time, I was Waiting for You
It's a boy.
He is five months old.
And his given name {from the orphanage} is Asiimwe Joseph.
My dear sweet baby boy,
As you're sleeping, across the ocean, do you know how much you're loved right now?
Can you feel it from that far away?
I so badly hope with all my heart that last night someone whispered in your little ear and told you that you had a family.
That you can feel the difference in your heart too.
Your daddy and I are no longer two but three. And, we, my son, are a family.
Do you understand how many people are dying to meet you? It's so crazy to me the emails and letters and calls pouring in today. Family and friends and even perfect strangers sharing in our celebration day. Crying with us. The happiness. The oh-my-goodness-when-do-you-get-to-go-get-him? They're as anxious as we are. And, we haven't even been granted our adoption yet or met you or seen a picture. Can you imagine the party that we'll throw when you're finally here in our arms? There are so so many people who are out there praying and wishing you home with us.
And, it's a bit overwhelming to feel so much love. But, we are so very thankful for it.
We took pictures last night after we found out you were ours.
They are terrible pictures.
Our eyes are closed, and I'm in pajamas.
But, we're beaming.
And crying.
And happy. So very very happy.
One of the biggest questions we've been asked is if we have a picture of you yet. And, while we have yet to see your little face, there is no denying you are the one we have been waiting for.
Your given middle name is your daddy's middle name. And your first name? It means thanks to God. So appropriate I couldn't help but cry when I heard the translation.
I can't believe this whole time I was waiting for you, anxious to get you home, and you weren't even born yet. When I bought you lots of Christmas ornaments last year because you had to have one for every year, I only had to buy one in reality. What will I do with all the others I wonder?
I can't believe you will be so little.
You will spend your first Christmas with us.
How is that even possible?
I will get to see your first step. So many milestones I was prepared to miss.
But, I get to be there now. Holding your hand along the way.
Last night, after our family calls had been made, Daddy and I couldn't go to bed yet. We were too excited. Too anxious and nervous. Too many thoughts running through our head.
We kept looking at each other, getting a half crazy grin and whispering over and over.
"We have a baby. You're a dad. I'm a mom. We. have. a. baby!"
And so, we bought you your first {two} we-just-found-out-your-our-son presents. They're rather darling, and I've been dying to buy both but was waiting until I knew you for sure were a "he."
I love you, my sweet little man. I can't wait to hold you in my arms and kiss your sweet head.
Sweet dreams.
Your Mommy
Abigail, or AbiQ, is married to the love of her life and best friend. They currently live in a snug little apartment in the east bay with their two pups, Lexi Louanne and Mr Mogley Winchester. And, those pups are in for some change. Right now, AbiQ and Husband Man are in Uganda bringing home their baby boy Finley Lane. Though an internet connection may be hard to come by, you can haunt their adoption blog until the news is posted that he is in their arms–looks like she's still tweeting and their Finley is safely in their arms!


text:
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Originally Posted by xk4
While @CSNBullsinsider is talking about how Nate Robinson has developed maturity, Nate is shown dancing on the bench.
this tweet made me
nice! and the Bulls didn't even have the lead by a point all game long.
Forum Rules


text:
Skies of Glory Reloaded - FREE
by SGN, Version: 1.0 , 11545 KB Official Site
Package name: com.mindjolt.sog , Last Update: 2012-03-01 21:04:13
1139 ratings (3.926 average)
50,000-250,000 downloads
SKIES OF GLORY takes you back to the aerial combats of WWII. Set in the terrain of Pacific and European theaters of WW2, you and your friends team up to defend your base and destroy enemy compounds, achieve war missions, or show off your piloting skills in a full-force free-for-all air fight.
With new planes added regularly and plane statistics updated on a weekly basis, SoG is the reference of combat simulation for World War 2. More than a typical flight simulator, SoG adds to this flight simulation the component of air combat against real users through the multiplayer available as online gaming (internet), or local gaming (bluetooth and local Wifi).
Join the fun in this plane simulation that will teach you how to become a real war pilot, and become an ace of plane fight!
Who knows, flight in multiplayer and maybe a Squad that thinks that you have what it takes, will even recruit you into their piloting school!
Suit up, Pilot, we are waiting for you in the sky!
2.0 OS required.
Currently does not support: Hero, Eris.


text:
OK. Google is involved with a secret project on Treasure Island. Speculation on that project has flourished. But answers have not. It may be a floating data center. It may be a Google Glass store. It may be something else. Let's round up the speculation and facts here.
But before doing so, it's worth asking the question: Why does anyone care?
The easy answer is curiosity. Companies build things in secret all the time and sometimes they're really cool. Amazon's Jeff Bezos built up a secret space flight company for years before the public caught on. If the structure is a floating Google Glass store, that's one more interesting read we had in our day on the Internet. We just want to know — even if the company keeps it secret is to keep competitors at bay.
Our natural tendency is to be wary of things in hiding and sometimes with really good reason. Google is a gigantic company with its hands in a lot of pots — self-driving cars, Internet balloons, mobile operating systems, smartphones, Web browsers, enterprise applications. The list goes on.
Its biggest pot, however, is information about you. That's not tinfoil hat conspiracy stuff. That's how the company stays afloat, subsiding, despite its adventures, almost entirely on advertising revenue. Those dollars hinge on knowing about your habits, past and future.
But there is a second level, now hammered home almost every week, which goes beyond targeting ads for vacations and razors: the revelations about government surveillance, mostly by the NSA and all its digital dragnets. The role big tech companies have played has made many people completely re-evaluate their roles in our lives (or it should have).
And so, when there are rumors of a secret data fortress floating right there in our beloved bay, our ears perk up.
Google hasn't helped by staying completely quiet. I've reached out three times with no response.
So here's what we know:
Last Friday CNET's Daniel Terdiman cast a spotlight on a strange four-story barge made of shipping containers under construction on Treasure Island. The barge itself is registered to a (shell) company called By and Large LLC, which Terdiman tied to Google.
I later spoke with Brad McCrea, director of permitting for the Bay Conservation and Development Commission, who confirmed his department had meetings with Google representatives about the structure and the requirements for getting a permit to have it moored. Other outlets have confirmed the same conversations with other members of the agency. Reuters spoke with a construction superintendent across the street (unaffiliated with the Google project) who marveled at Google's secrecy efforts. I know plenty of people who work or previously worked at Google — if there's one thing the company knows how to do, it's implement non-disclosure agreements. Even members of the Coast Guard were sworn to secrecy.
So what no one (publicly) knows is what's happening inside the structure. The two going theories are a floating data center and Google Glass store. The former is bolstered by Google filing a patent for a structure full of computers that is powered by waves a few years ago — though companies file patents for things they never build all the time. The latter is going off sources close to KPIX who said it was a store for the upcoming release of the wearable technology and would be docked somewhere near Fort Mason, on the north side of the city.
Fueling the speculation is a similar structure has appeared in Portland, Maine, also owned by By and Large LLC.
And so far, that's the end of the road.
The bet I'd put my chips on — though not too many of them — is actually a hybrid of the two theories: it is a floating Glass store, but the facility will use the wave power mechanisms outlined in Google's patent for a floating data center. In essence the Glass store would be a testing ground for data center research. I put this weak theory forward because after the conversation with McCrea, he made it abundantly clear that Google would not receive a permit to moor the structure if whatever it is — he had no idea — could also be built on land. Both a Glass store and a data center could be. However, if Google could prove that to power this Glass Store it has to be on water, that may sway the agency's decision for a permit.
I only shy from the data center theory because Google has historically not only been mum on data center technology, but out of sight. The project on Treasure Island obviously has incredibly secrecy but it does seem a little strange the company would build such a high-tech structure in such plain view, in a city that's so tech obsessed anyway. Not to mention, considering all the rancor over the aformentioned NSA concerns, were it confirmed as a data center that would invite a lot more than photographers and nosy journalists to cause trouble on Treasure Island.
Sources have said the Treasure Island facility has gotten quiet since Teridan's inital report. Obviously, we'll let you know when we know more. Until then, enjoy the view….


text:
Shelly Anderson of Inver Grove Heights was a devoted Target shopper. When she needed toothpaste, groceries or even furniture, she headed to the brick-and-mortar and online versions of the Minnesota company.
"Target was my friend," she said.
In June, though, she ordered a wicker ottoman, available only online, from Target.com at a sale price with free shipping. What arrived at her door was a three-drawer dresser. When she reordered the ottoman, oops, she got a playpen.
Anderson didn't see why it should be up to her to haul the bulky boo-boos to a Target store to return them. But Target told her — even after its second screw-up — that it's not its policy to provide help with returns even if the problem is its fault.
Furthermore, Target informed her, since the ottoman was no longer on sale, she'd have to pay full price along with shipping costs. Why? That was company policy.
So Anderson lugged the dresser and the playpen to the West St. Paul store, where team leader Carissa Hoffman was sympathetic and tried to arrange for the third try for the ottoman to be delivered to the store, where — assuming the delivery was correct — Anderson could pick it up and pay for it. But Target policy interceded, and this reasonable option wasn't possible. Hoffman felt so bad that she sent Anderson an apologetic note and a $10 gift card.
That note was welcome, Anderson said. She got a second $10 gift card after she contacted the Better Business Bureau, too. But other expressions of apology seemed forced, she said — kind of like when you order children to say they're sorry.
The ordeal surprised and saddened her.
"Target states 'Expect More,' but all I'm expecting is more run-around," Anderson told the Watchdog. "Can you help me get the product I ordered?"
The Watchdog expected that after two wrong deliveries, Target would rethink its usual policy and agree to an unusual resolution.
After talking with Target officials, the Watchdog was able to get Anderson her ottoman priced $23 below the sale price, plus free shipping; an offer of spare cushions (which she turned down); another $15 gift card; and a promise that Target would take responsibility in case — shudder — a third shipping error is made.
Until then, Anderson is a devoted Target shopper again.
Feel like an underdog because of a problem with a business, government agency or school? To ask the Watchdog for help, go to TwinCities.com/watchdog, call 651-228-5419 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow her at twitter.com/pioneerwatchdog.


text:
Zur Greenschen Funktion optisch anisotroper Medien
Version of Record online: 16 MAR 2006
DOI: 10.1002/andp.19804920306
Copyright © 1980 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Annalen der Physik
Volume 492, Issue 3, pages 200–212, 1980
Additional Information
How to Cite
Macheleidt, G. (1980), Zur Greenschen Funktion optisch anisotroper Medien. Ann. Phys., 492: 200–212. doi: 10.1002/andp.19804920306
Publication History
- Issue online: 16 MAR 2006
- Version of Record online: 16 MAR 2006
- Manuscript Revised: 31 AUG 1979
- Manuscript Received: 1 DEC 1978
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text:
Crossdressing CoupleI am turned on by seeing my husband crossdressing, he enjoys wearing panties, pantyhose and all types of lingerie, him crossdressing is a major part of our bedroom play. We often wear matching panties, or matching lingerie and have a few sexy costumes also. Most men who crossdress spend years trying to figure out how to tell there partner, many who have told there partner are surprised that there partner actually accepts it and likes it. Its a great way to spice things up in the bedroom and many woman I have talked to say that a man that likes to crossdress makes for a much better lover, I would have to agree with them. They express he is more intune to her needs and is unselfish, plus the fact that crossdressing excites him so much and he pays so much more attention to her pleasure. Thanks to our society becoming more open minded many woman are relaxing and not jumping to conclusions when it comes to finding out there man likes to wear panties, pantyhose or lingerie. Some woman will be totally fine with it right from the start, they will not even question anything they will just go with it, and others will be met with resistance and you will have to communicate with them and ease any concerns they have. Check out our profile for more about us.
Add a response...
I'm single and bi- omg its so fun...people are so open up nowadays to try new things..lol
My wife tells me that she has never had better sex with anyone..!! She also said that she wishes she had ****** a few more crossdressers when she was younger
I love your story and we have a great one to share..My wife is out at a store called "Hotties" here in Las Vegas buying my a new dress the shy say's "Will look fantastic on you.!"
We can certainly relate to this article. After reading your article I asked my wife about how she feels (in a joking voice as I know how she feels). Her reply was... "After the first time you don't think that I would ever have sex with you naked.
Wonderful article, thank you for sharing.
my wife loves that i like wearing panties and nightgowns. i always try and please her because that is what i get off on.
my wife is ok with me crossing too i wish we could find other couples close by that we could dress and hang with
Where are you located? We would love to join you.
omg some people are just so lucky
Hi Guys, loved reading that, couldn't agree more. I am really lucky to share my fetish with my wife, she's always been really kinky anyway, but she agrees since we've been doing it, we've had our best sex ever.


text:
Kusile Zulu Trading is minting buckets loads of cash from toilet paper. Celinkosi Ndiyaza started operating the toilet paper making company in 2009 after receiving funding from Ithala Development Finance and BHP Billiton SMME development programme under Raizcorp.
With products ready to hit the shelves of major retailers, Kusile was found lacking on the marketing and branding side by a Seda assessment. Seda was approached in 2009 to assist with this element and the interventions seem to have worked as major retailers have now opened their doors and shelves for the company to sell its wares.
Pick n Pay was one of the first major retailers to put on its shelves toilet paper from Kusile. Since then, stores such as MASSCASH and Jack Morison & Sons have signed up to take products from Kusile.
Another challenge that Kusile had was lack of a financial management system. This led to the company not being able to locate monies paid to the company, or paid out by the company. This often also led to poor inventory management and inconsistencies in salary payments.
With the various interventions implemented, the company can now generate accurate monthly financial statements, and generate various financial documents.
Financally, the company's revenue has risen significantly between 2010 and 2012, increasing from R920 847 to R5, 4 million.
Celenkosi says, "I would like to thank Seda for opening doors and assist my business from the scratch up to this far. I also want to thank Seda for continuing to support our business to showcase our products at Durban Businss Fair for the fourth time which contributes to my business exposure, generating sales and getting more customers."


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More jobs in service, fewer in factories
JOBS continue to be created in Hong Kong's vibrant service sector, but the number of people employed in manufacturing has continued to decline steeply, according to latest Government figures.
In June this year, there were 443,500 people in manufacturing jobs, down 15 per cent from the same time a year ago.
The number of service sector jobs increased 10.9 per cent over the same period to 1.03 million. The service sector includes retail, import-export, restaurants and hotels.
Jobs in the financial services industry also grew year on year. In the 12 months to June, the number employed in this area grew by 7.3 per cent to 351,200.
Construction industry employment remained virtually flat on 57,400 at the end of June, compared with 56,900 at the same time a year before.
The picture was similar for reported vacancies. Demand was high in the services sector - especially in the retail and import-export trades, restaurants and hotels - and slightly lower in the financial services sector.
The construction sector saw less change, and a big decline was reported in manufacturing vacancies as industry continued to shift across the border to China.
The broad services sector had 30.1 per cent more vacancies at 35,400, compared with 27,240 a year earlier, while financial services vacancies increased by 12.8 per cent to 11,890 from 10,540.
Construction vacancies increased by 7.7 per cent from 490 in June 1993 to 530 in June this year.
There were 11,240 manufacturing vacancies reported in June this year, compared with 14,760 a year before - a drop of some 23.8 per cent.
For seasonal reasons, all sectors except construction reported lower vacancies in June than in March this year.
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Franklin Police Sgt. Ray Dilworth was shot in the head with a non-lethal training round during a training exercise Tuesday afternoon.
Dilworth, a 23-year Franklin Police veteran, suffered a concussion and was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center's trauma unit.
Officers were using Simunition training cartridges Tuesday when the incident occurred. Simunition is a brand of field training equipment that is used to covert service weapons for non-lethal training purposes.
Dilworth was conscious and visiting with his family last night.
He oversees the department's Field Training and Evaluation Program was injured at Franklin's Municipal Training Center on Century Court.


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Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe Sunday celebrated his 90th birthday with tens of thousands of Zimbabweans, a milestone that no other founding fathers of African nations has achieved in office, Xinhua reported.
One of Africa's most prominent anti-apartheid fighter, Mugabe has been the leader of Zimbabwe since independence from Britain in 1980, and having ruled 34 years, he is Africa's oldest leader and one of the continent's longest serving presidents.
"I feel as youthful and energetic as a boy of nine. I drop the zero now," Mugabe said, triggering a round of applause from Zimbabweans who gathered at the open ground of a stadium in Marondera, 75 km southeast of the national capital Harare.
He said that leading a healthy life devoid of smoking and beer drinking had greatly helped him to live this far.
As in past years, Mugabe threw balloons and cut the colorful and gigantic birthday cake with his family — wife Grace Mugabe and their children — while entertainers danced and sang throughout the day. The event was organised by the ruling Zanu-PF party with estimated cost of $1 million.
But this year suspicion around the nonagenarian leader's health was aroused as he only returned to Zimbabwe Saturday, a day after his actual birthday Feb 21. Officials said Mugabe had travelled to Singapore to have cataract removed from his left eye.
"When the day comes and I retire, yes, sure, the day will come, but I do not want to leave my party in tatters. I want to leave it intact," Mugabe said.


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Kind of a riff on The Little Mermaid, from a book version I remember reading as a kid.
Hans Christian Andersen is Turning Somersaults in his Grave
Dancing on broken glass,
waves lapping at her feet,
knives hidden in the seafoam.
The blood of her true love
will set her free,
return her to the arms of the sea.
She chooses to dance on,
dancing on broken glass.


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McCann Out for Six Weeks with Torn Cartilage
Vital Burnley gave an update on Chris McCann's progress in recovering from his knee injury yesterday and things looked a little bleak.
An extensive rehabilitation programme had failed to get McCann fit enough to play after being sidelined since the Bolton game at the Reebok back in January earlier this year.
The club had no option but to send him to a specialist to try and get to the bottom of the problem with surgery a likely requirement.
Some further news today has revealed what the problem has been following exploratory surgery.
McCann has had a slight tear to his cartilage. It is a non-serious condition and it will be some relief that it was not related to his cruciate and medial ligament injury he suffered earlier in the season.
The cartilage was repaired during the surgery but nevertheless it will still take up to six weeks for McCann to fully recover.
It is now looking doubtful that he will be available to play in our remaining games of the season although there is a chance he might just get a game or two before pre-season starts depending on his recovery progress.


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Product Features
The Reign provides support, cushion and flex. The STC Outsole absorbs the shock of landing big airs and provides traction for hiking in the backcountry. The PowerFit Liner keeps your toes warm while providing the support you need. Speed hooks let you get in and out quickly, allowing you more time on the hill.
Key Features of the Morrow Reign Snowboard Boots:
- STC Outsole provides support, traction & cushion
- PowerFit Liner with performance ankle pocket and removable insole
- Nylon mesh & synthetic leather body construction
- Multi-zone ankle flex points
- webbing lace loops with speed hooks
All Gear by: Morrow


text: As a follow up to my posting a 1943 Look Magazine article on George Pal, Brew reader Kevin Kidney sends us this April 1944 Coronet Magazine article. Lots of neat things to look at here, including famed sculpter Wah Chang (in picture #3), and the fact that they are making Jasper Goes Hunting, the one with a cameo by Bugs Bunny. Click on thumbnails below to view at full size.


text: Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Hotel rating Quick Specs Rates $28-$51 View Large Interactive Map Address 275 Qingnian Zhong RdNantong, China 226007 Web http://www.998.com Phone + 86 513-8511-3998 Fax + 86 513-8558-5189 Toll-free Email OverviewMeeting Specs Description Check in Time: 2:00 PMCheck out Time: 12:00 PMTotal Number of Rooms: 128Rates: $28-$51Chain: GreenTree InnsChain Website: http://www.998.com/hotellist GDS Hotel Reservation CodesAmadeus GDS: YX NTGNANGalileo/Apollo GDS: HQ AY713Sabre GDS: YX 074867 Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Location & NeighborhoodIn Nantong. Convention Center. Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Rates & PoliciesGreentree Inn Nantong Qingnian rates are Daily in USDStandard: $28-$51 Credit Cards Are AcceptedMeals: No Meals Included Nearby AirportsNantong (0 mile north)Sunan Shuofang (44.50 miles southwest)Benniu (62.50 miles west)More Airports » Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Room AmenitiesGreentree Inn Nantong Qingnian amenities are in All rooms unless noted otherwiseTelevisionInternet Access (High Speed) Guest ServicesFree Onsite Parking Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Meeting Rooms & Events Greentree Inn Nantong Qingnian Business ServicesBusiness Center Hoteliers! Is your listing up to date? With over 130,000 hotels in our database, no other source compares to our depth of information. Click here to review and be sure the travel professional knows your hotel's latest details.


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03 May High-rise project Planned for Downtown Austin Block
Posted at 17:03h in Uncategorized 0 CommentsCielo was recently was selected by the Episcopal Church to develop one of the few remaining privately owned, undeveloped blocks in downtown Austin. Bounded by Seventh, Eighth, Trinity and Neches streets, plans for Block 87 call for a large mixed-use project along with a permanent home for the church's historical archives. See the conceptual renderings of what this mixed-use project might look like after the page break.


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Article Side
Online Article Directory!
When is your NEXT "Wow" to Apple?
Do you still remember that Steve Jobs used to say that, people don't know what they really need until you present them what you have, or something into that effect? Indeed, this logic used to make people so crazy about many of Apple's stunning products, such as the 1000-song-capacity first class iPod which totally reinvented digital music player, the first generation iPhone which successfully restarted the smart phone era, and iPad which absolutely brought a magnitude earthquake into IT industry.
A great company does not simply manufacture products, a great company invents products. But, to Apple, the formula seems to be different. As an extraordinary company, Apple does not follow the general way that every other company goes through. Apple does not only invent something, Apple also reinvents things that already been in existence. Apple did not invent digital music player, but its iPod revolutionized the music sector, Apple did not invent smart phone, but its iPhone revolutionized the whole smart phone industry, Apple did not invent tablet computer, but its iPad revolutionized the entire tablet PC industry.
If you cannot resist saying "Wow…" to something you first see, it means that thing is awesome. Too many times, Apple has wowed us. When is the last time you utter "wow…" to Apple? Was it when OX Mountain Lion was released during WWDC 2012? Maybe it was iOS 6, or Siri? When will be your next "Wow"? Will it be the forthcoming iPhone 5? Will it be the rumored iPad Mini, or even iPhone Mini? From my perspective, I don't think the iPhone 5, iPad Mini or iPhone Mini would bring so much hustle and bustle, with a very simple logic that no matter iPhone 5, iPad Mini, or iPhone Mini, they are still iPhone, and iPad anyway, just a matter of size, at least from the external look. Until when the devs demo you the internal differences, might you by then be surprised, or there will not be so much spotlight shed on them, especially to iPad Mini and iPhone Mini which are only Apple's marketing strategy just to fill the vacancy of middle and lower end products, for the simple purpose of increasing revenue, without anything revolutionary! And Apple may have to do that, when being confronted with Android, its biggest rival, a camp which Jobs was strong motivated to destroy, at the cost of Apple's then $40 billion in the bank, even his last dying breath. But, to release iPhone Mini and iPad Mini does not sit atop of Apple's to-do list, because to do something not big is not Apple's style, it's not in the DNA of Apple in the first place. There must be some secret planning's running smoothly or toughly deep inside of the Infinite Loop, maybe just at one seemingly not so eye-catching lab which sits in some corner of Cupertino.
If someday, a company like Apple, whose top priority begins to emphasize on making profits, instead of transforming great ideas into great products, then, its doomsday, might be due soon. Apple is not NOKIA, nor Samsung, nor HTC, who does not invent anything, but simply manufactures products. Apple will not do that and will not make that happening, because Job's original intention was to build a company that lives from generations to generations, not just survives. And I'm quite sure that that mission has been firmly transplanted into Captain Cook's blood.
That APPLE will not be bitten, again! And no matter what the next revolutionary product is, whether it is iTV, iCamera, or iChair, iDesk, even iBus, iPlane … it does not matter, the only thing that really matters is—
That APPLE is doing and, the whole world, is witnessing.
Linda Lee - About Author:
About Fengtao Software:
Fengtao Software is a professional multimedia software provider dedicated to the work on DVD /Blu-ray copy, DVD ripper, Blu-ray ripper, DVD decrypter and video converter for almost 10 years and provides the best multimedia entertainment experience for more than 40 million users. For more information, please visit: http://www.dvdfab.com
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Massage Therapy
Offering general Swedish relaxation, hot stone and other modalities of massage. Headache and stress relief are available through scalp and neck massage. Rossiter assisted stretching is offered to relieve lower back pain, knee pain, as well as neck problems.
Scalp Massage
Using gentle but firm pressure, small sections of hair gripped by the therapist are gently pulled from your scalp to the end of each section of hair. This causes a release of endorphins & tension in the micro muscles surrounding each hair follicle, causing the relaxation response in your entire body. The relaxation response neutralizes stress chemicals because hair pulling scalp massage releases endorphins, your body's own natural painkillers, it is effective for:
Headaches (including migraines & sinus)
• Whiplash
• Neck and shoulder tension
• TMJ dysfunction syndrome
• Neurological trauma
• Nerve injury
• Body aches and stiffness
• Mental tension
• Emotional upset
Full session adds neck/shoulder 25 min $30
Half session 15mins $20
A Rossiter System® Workout $45…per workout
The Rossiter System® is a two-person stretching program that combines common connective/soft-tissue modalities with the uniquely powerful twist of active client participation in the stretching techniques. Rossiter is an effective tool for structural pain and limited flexibility/range of motion, preventing, alleviating and reversing pain and pain-related symptoms quickly. A massage focuses on muscle groups or specific muscles, while the Rossiter System® focuses entirely on the underlying and broader connective tissue system and it addresses different levels and types of connective tissue (outer layers, inner layers). The client is an active participant and each coaching appointment with a Rossiter Coach is called a "workout" instead of a session, treatment or therapy.
Deep Tissue Massage
This technique helps reduce tight-knotted muscles (tissue that is not receiving oxygen or functioning well). Tight-knotted muscles are usually found around old inflamed injuries & over- used muscles; Deep tissue massage can increase limited flexibility & range of motion & decrease chronic pain. This massage focuses on deeper layers of muscle tissue & uses deeper, direct, slow strokes & friction and works best on specific areas of the body and may cause some soreness a day or two after, due to the release of the scar tissue.
1 hr $80
½ hr $55
A Knead To Know 80 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Suite 3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 850-862-2562


text: Chris Samuel <chris at csamuel.org> writes: > On Mon, 1 Jun 2009 09:09:02 pm Paul Fertser wrote: > >> No, Qi doesn't support jffs2. > > That's what I thought. > > But, in that case, how come my Om2009 phone boots into 2.6.29-rc2 (which is > in /boot in the JFFS2 image) and not to the 2.6.28 image I've > flashed to it ? File name is wrong, the kernel is 2.6.29 actually. Look at the git hash. -- Be free, use free (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html) software! mailto:fercerpav at gmail.com


text: On Thu, 14 Jun 2007, Andrew Morton wrote:> If we never inflict variable PAGE_CACHE_SIZE upon the kernel, these changes> become pointless obfuscation.But there is no such resonable scenario that I am aware of unless we continue to add workarounds for the issues covered here to the VM.And it was pointed out to you that such approach can never stand in place of the different uses of having a larger page cache.> I think the best way to proceed would be to investigate that _general_> optimisation and then, based upon the results of that work, decide whether> further _specialised_ changes such as variable PAGE_CACHE_SIZE are needed,> and if so, what they should be.As has been pointed out performance is only one beneficial issue ofhaving a higher page cache. It is doubtful in principle that the proposed alternative can work given that locking overhead and management overheadby the VM are not minimized but made more complex by your envisioned solution.The solution here significantly cleans up the page cache even if we never go to the variable page cache. If we do get there then numerous workarounds that we have in the tree because of not supporting larger I/O go away cleaning up the VM further. The large disk sizes can be handled in a reasonable way (f.e. fsck times would decrease) since we can handlelarge contiguous chunks of memory. This is a necessary strategic move for the Linux kernel. It would also pave the way of managing large chunksof contiguous memory for other ways and has the potential of getting ridof such sore spots as the hugetlb filesystem.-To unsubscribe from this list: send the line "unsubscribe linux-kernel" inthe body of a message to email@example.com majordomo info at http://vger.kernel.org/majordomo-info.htmlPlease read the FAQ at http://www.tux.org/lkml/


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CIPHI Seminar Series: The Implementation of Admission Standards in Ontario's Class A Public Pools: An exploratory study
This seminar will take place on March 8, 2017 at 12 noon and will run for 1 hour. It will be presented by Ofelia Tatar. You can register at the link here.
About the presenter:
Mrs. Tatar is a recent graduate of the fast-track public health program at the School of Occupational and Public Health at Ryerson University. In 2015, she was a summer intern student with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's Public Health Division, where she gained experience in Environmental Health Policy & Programs work. In the summer and fall of 2015, she held a practicum position with Peel Public Health where she acquired valuable practical knowledge related to food and water safety, health hazards, infection prevention & control and communicable diseases. She successfully passed the Board of Certification (BOC) exam in October 2016, and currently works as a certified Public Health Inspector with the Region of Peel, Environmental Health.


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Source: John Smeaton Today I had the pleasure of renewing my acquaintance with Archpriest Andrew Phillips, who leads one of Britain's 40 Russian Orthodox parishes in Colchester. Archpriest Andrew has kindly sent me some of his recent personal reflections on pro-life issues: After 1945 we were to be provided by the Welfare State with care 'from the cradle to the grave'. Instead, it rather … [Read more...]
A Russian Orthodox Priest Speaks Out Against Britain's Culture of Death
May 27, 2011 Posted by: 12 Comments


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I'm flying at about 30,000 feet as I write this post. I'm reminded again and again that you have to start somewhere. You cannot get to be a top blogger, podcaster, video blogger, without starting.
Just start!
Since I've started enjoying writing now more than ever before I will begin this process of sharing online in a blog format. I hope that anyone who takes the time to read my post is pleasantly surprised by what they find here – Grammar and mistakes aside.
I'm not Seth Godin, or Glenn Beck, or even Jared Easley for that matter. I'm Randy Wilburn and I'm glad to make your acquaintance if even over this post. Maybe you are a friend or we've met in person, or you are my Mom…Hi, Mom! I've been off and on, starting and stopping, writing in my blog and now I've realized that I have to make a routine out of this exercise or it will never happen.
Many of my favorite bloggers say "Just Ship It!" We'll that's what I'm going to do on a regular basis.
I'm not sure of the overriding theme of this blog. It certainly won't be just about me but it will have my flavor all over it. I love entrepreneurship, marketing, ideation, encouragement, and speaking just to name a few things. I have a goal to ultimately write a book and I'm hoping that this regular mental exercise of sharing with you and anyone else who will read these posts will get me over the hurdle of putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. The writing muscle must be exercised on a regular basis or it will never get stronger.
For me it's now or never. If I don't start I will never Finish!
What muscle are you trying to exercise?!?


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The product: Clinique Almost Lipstick (all shades)
The story of Black Honey: Clinique tells this tale much better than I ever would, so:
"Black Honey made its debut in the US in 1971 and this deep, blackened rasin hue became an instant success. In 1989, when Black Honey was later launched as an Almost Lipstick, no one realized how quickly it would become an iconic lip colour. A precise blend of red, blue, orange and yellow pigments in a sheer base allows Black Honey to look beautiful and different on virtually every skin tone, making it a cult favourite."
L-R: Tender Honey, Chic Honey, Luscious Honey, Lovely Honey, Shy Honey, Spicy Honey, Flirty Honey
L-R: Tender Honey, Chic Honey, Luscious Honey, Lovely Honey, Shy Honey, Spicy Honey, Flirty Honey
The formula: Like the classic Black Honey, Clinique's range of Almost Lipsticks are best interpreted as gloss sticks, or sheer lipsticks, rather than… well, rather than lipsticks. They feel balmy going on, completely smooth and almost entirely scent-free (they do smell a bit waxy when applied, but the smell fades in a matter of minutes), and deliver wearable colour with a natural-looking finish.
The Almost Lipsticks are essentially glamorous tinted lipbalms, so they have a bit of a shine to their finish – think "fresh and hydrated," rather than "sticky and vinyl." All in all, while I'd like a bit more moisture out of the formula, I'm quite happy with them: they're practically impossible to botch up (even without a mirror), and I've been wearing them non-stop since swatching them.
L-R: Tender Honey, Chic Honey, Luscious Honey, Lovely Honey, Shy Honey, Spicy Honey, Flirty Honey
Top to bottom: Flirty Honey, Spicy Honey, Shy Honey, Lovely Honey, Luscious Honey, Chic Honey, Tender Honey
The shades: In addition to the classic Black Honey, Clinique has added seven new shades to the Almost Lipstick line. They're all varying degrees of "sheer," but (ironically enough), I find all seven of the new shades more wearable than the "universal" Black Honey! For photos of each shade individually, don't miss this post. (Fixed; two of the photos were switched earlier. Apologies!)
Black Honey (01) is a warm brown-red, one of the darkest and most pigmented Almost Lipstick shades. Tender Honey (35) is a medium nude with subtle microshimmer and just a hint of yellow-pink undertones. Chic Honey (36) is a (super-chic) berry shade; think "Black Honey for cool skintones." Luscious Honey (37) is a sheer, juicy bright red .
Clinique Almost Lipsticks swatched heavily.
Lovely Honey (38) is a violet-berry with faint brown undertones and gold microshimmer – super pretty in the tube. Shy Honey (39) is an extremely sheer baby pink. Spicy Honey (40) is a wine red, not quite as dark as Chic Honey but somehow more sheer than Flirty Honey (which is lighter in the tube). Flirty Honey (41) is a bright fuchsia-pink.
I managed to somehow swatch Tender Honey fifth, rather than second, so I thought it best to label the swatches above directly onto the image – hope the order isn't too confusing! There's another small swatch set under the cut, with the correct order, if you need it.
The verdict?
As a lover of Black Honey in formula and theory (but not in shade), I'm really pleased that Clinique has built on their Almost Lipstick range. As promised, these gloss sticks ($18.00 CAD, available Feb 2012 onwards) deliver transparent, lightweight colour, and while my super-dry lips would like to see a bit more hydration from them, I'm quite impressed with the colour range & the feel of the formula.
If you were hoping for something a little more more pigmented than Clinique's Chubby Sticks (I was, initially), then these aren't going to cut it – but if you're looking for sheer, scent-free, paraben-free colour, I think you're going to like these!
Swatched heavily L-R: 01 Black Honey, 36 Chic Honey, 37 Luscious Honey, 38 Lovely Honey, 35 Tender Honey (sorry, I'm a dolt who managed to get the nicely numbered shades in the wrong order somehow), 39 Shy Honey, 40 Spicy Honey, 41 Flirty Honey
Top row – Black Honey, Tender Honey, Chic Honey, Luscious Honey
Bottom row – Lovely Honey, Shy Honey, Spicy Honey, Flirty Honey


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8 Signs You are Obsessed With Your Appearance
A human being goes through childhood, teenage and adulthood. The bodies of men and women change their look drastically in every stage. Sometimes women are so used to seeing themselves in a particular shape and size that they find it tough to like their changed body shape. This is very normal when it comes to pregnant women. Some women get obsessed with their look and this negatively affects their overall personality and life. Here are some signs that can help you to find out if you are obsessed with your appearance.
1. If you are thinking of getting a surgical procedure done to improve your looks
Everyone knows that a plastic surgery or a surgical procedure related to look enhancement can be painful. It can also burn a hole in your pocket. So, you wouldn't want to go for such a procedure if you don't have a deep wallet. If you are not that rich and still want to splurge on a surgical procedure to look better then you are probably obsessed with your appearance. In some cases, it is alright to spend money on a surgical procedure. For instance, if you want to have a hair removal laser surgery to get rid of unwanted hair on your face then it is alright.
2. If you desperately want to look young like a teenager
Every woman says that she wants to look like a teenager all over again but some women take this thing too seriously. Some women don't have realistic expectations from their surgery or body. If you are one of those women who tell their surgeon, "I just want you to make my upper lip 0.25 inches smaller" then you might be a little self obsessed. An obsessed woman might find it tough to trust her surgeon and she might ask for a warranty regarding her final look after the surgery. This is a typical warning sign of narcissism. Such people probably have some deep-seated psychological issues to address. Everyone wants to turn the clock back a little and this is natural but expecting to look like a 21 year old girl when your granddaughter is in college is unrealistic.
3. If you check the mirror again and again
Mirrors are usually a woman's best friends. In some cases, this friendship goes a step ahead and takes shape of an obsession. If you spend more time in front of mirrors than the time spent in any other activity then you are possibly obsessed with your appearance. Fixing hair, make-up and clothing in front of the mirror constantly is something more than just a healthy concern for looking nice. It is obsession!
4. If you think only about your appearance around friends, family and with your lover on a romantic evening
Obsessed women have a one track mind. They only think about their hair, clothes and overall appearance no matter who is around them. Place or gathering doesn't matter to such women. Their own and other people's appearance is the only thing they have for discussion.


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Icy weather creates winter wasteland on Midland roads
Published 5:28 pm, Thursday, December 5, 2013
Thursday's icy weather contributed to nearly 100 wrecks and has done its best to close down Midland.
Sara Higgins, public information officer for the city, said Midland police responded to 92 accidents within city limits as of 9 p.m. Thursday. Those wrecks included several on or near Loop 250, minor accidents on intracity roadways and several rollover crashes on Interstate 20 and State Highway 191.
Even late Thursday, the Texas Department of Transportation reported Westbound I-20 at Loop 250 east of Midland, was shut down after an 18-wheeler " jack-knifed and took out about 150 feet of guard fence."
And the threat of what roads could be like today prompted the closings of government offices and city schools, including Midland Independent School District and Midland College.
The city of Midland also looked at the forecast and decided to postpone the annual Christmas parade — Winter Wonderland in Midland. Orginally scheduled for Saturday, it has been rescheduled for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14. It will be followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree in Centennial Plaza. Junior Achievement of the Permian Basin has moved the Jingle Bell Run, also orginally scheduled for Saturday. It, too, will take place on Dec. 14.
And for the second time in less than two weeks, officials closed Loop 250. It remains to be seen when the roadway might reopen as temperatures are not expected to rise into the 30s and above until Sunday.
Motorists are being asked to avoid driving on the roads, if possible, but those who must drive should use caution, said Gene Powell, spokesman for the Texas Department of Transportation.
Both the city of Midland and Midland County announced Thursday that most offices will be closed. The city will have emergency response and basic services, such as trash pickup and water/wastewater, in operations, according to Higgins.
The icy weather hit the area in the morning hours. Driving conditions, though, deteriorated quickly in the afternoon/evening hours. Ice covered numerous streets across the area, and the sound of ice scrapers chiseling ice off vehicle windows filled several parking lots.
Midland PD officers even took the unusual step of closing down Loop 250 without consulting the Texas Department of Transportation.
Thursday's temperatures included an early morning high of 51 and a low of 25, with 0.23 inches of precipitation as of 8:53 p.m.
Today's thermometer is expected to plunge lower with a high near 27 and a low around 17, but precipitation is not expected, according to the National Weather Service.
TxDOT advises motorists to avoid driving. Sleet or freezing rain can make driving extremely hazardous. Here are some tips for motorists who must be on the road:
- Reduce speed. Speed limits are based on normal road and weather conditions, not winter road conditions. Do not use the cruise control.
- Maintain at least three times the normal following distance on snow or ice.
- Watch carefully for personnel and equipment treating roadways and stay at least 200 feet back if you are behind a snow plow.
- Use extra caution on bridges, ramps, overpasses and shaded areas because they tend to freeze first.
- Carry extra warm coats, gloves and boots in case you get stranded.
- If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you feel you have regained traction then straighten your vehicle.