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In the past decade, most international conservationists have focused on ending the trade in elephant ivory and, more recently in rhinoceros horn, paying relatively little attention to the plight of the tiger. This, despite the fact that three of the eight subspecies of tiger (Javan, Bali and Caspian) are already extinct; and that the world's tiger population is less than 6,000 animals (compared with slightly over 10,000 for the five species of rhino and, according to 1989 figures, over 600,000 elephants).
Tigers have been protected under Appendix I - species threatened with extinction - of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) since 1975, when the treaty was first signed. However, legal protection has done very little to safeguard the five surviving subspecies throughout their range:
The South China Tiger, shot by the thousands as a pest under a P.R.C.government sponsored program in the 1950s and 1960s (Laurie 1989), is on the brink of extinction; less than 50 individuals survive. As the name implies, it is native to China, the major consuming market for tiger bones. Ironically, in 1959 when the Siberian Tiger was declared a protected species, the South China Tiger was condemned as a pest. Its chances of survival into the next century are marginal.
Of the five subspecies of tiger, the Amur or Siberian tiger is the largest, with the northernmost range. Earlier this century its population fell to fewer than 100 animals but by 1990 had rebounded to an estimated 350 due to a hunting ban and border closures under Soviet rule. With the fall of communism however, illegal hunting has dramatically increased and up to 50 tigers a year are lost to poachers (Bernton 1993). In some cases the skins have reportedly been exchanged for cars (Jackson 1992a) and a Siberian tiger is now worth roughly "five used Toyotas."
World Conservation Monitoring Centre (WCMC) Threatened Species Data/Status Report for 1992 gives the following estimated numbers for each of the tiger subspecies:
P.t. altaica Amur (Siberian) Tiger 230-400 P.t. amoyensis South China Tiger 30-50 P.t. balica Bali Tiger extinct in 1940s P.t. corbetti Indochinese Tiger 1000-1500 P.t. sondaica Javan Tiger extinct in 1980s P.t. sumatrae Sumatran Tiger 500-1000 P.t. tigris Indian (Bengal) Tiger 3000 P.t. virgata Caspian Tiger extinct in 1970s total: 4760-5950
As outlined in the above section trade in tiger skins continues, but demand for tiger bones, used in traditional Chinese medicine and as an ingredient in tonics, is clearly the driving force behind increased poaching from the late 1980s. In some recent cases, poachers have taken only bones and genitals, leaving once-valuable skins behind (Dr. S.K. Dhungel, pers. comm. 1992). Skins are easily identifiable but tiger bones can pass for pigs, cattle or other livestock and non-endangered species.
The major consuming nations of tiger bones and other derivatives are China, South Korea and Taiwan. Although comprehensive statistics on trade are not available, an emerging picture shows these nations are unquestionably the end consumers for tiger (and other cats) bones and derivatives. The extremely high demand, combined with virtually non-existent enforcement of both international and domestic protection laws in consumer nations, makes the tiger's survival into the next century doubtful.
Four of the five extant tiger subspecies once roamed China in the tens of thousands. Today only a handful survive and the South China Tiger, found only in China, is on the verge of extinction because of government bounties offered for skins in the 1950s and 1960s. Between 1951-1955 an average of 400 skins were taken yearly (Laurie 1989). Having exhausted their own supply of tigers, Chinese traders are branching out and today it seems most roads in the trade lead to China. In 1988, twenty sacks of bones were confiscated at a Nepal Post Office near the Tibet border (Martin 1992a); and in 1991, five poachers, believed to be responsible for the deaths of three tigers in Nepal, were arrested for possessing bones from a tiger which had been poisoned (Anon. 1991a). In both cases, the bones were bound for China. Bones from tigers killed in India and Nepal are said to move through Tibet into China via mail, rail or overland (Dr. S. K. Dhungel, pers. comm. 1992).
Taiwan and South Korea have also imported large amounts of bones over the past decade. A few examples: TRAFFIC Japan reports that between 1985-1990, South Korea imported 1,700 kg of tiger bones, possibly representing the deaths of over 50 Tigers. Twelve years ago,TRAFFIC International cited an article in "Taiwan Trade Trends," which reported that one Taiwanese brewery alone was importing 2,000 kg of tiger bones yearly, representing the deaths of between 100-200 tigers each year, to make 100,000 bottles of Tiger Bone Wine (Jackson 1991).
Bones from Siberian Tigers are easily moved into not only China (Sievers 1992) but also North and South Korea. Slightly more than halfway through 1992, twenty Amur Tigers had already been killed in one reserve (Jackson 1992a). A team of investigators, posing as buyers in southeast China, were offered four Amur pelts and were told an additional eight could be made available (Low 1991). The same investigators also saw the skins of six Indochinese tigers which, they were told, had been smuggled into China at the Burma/Yunnan Province border.
In the southernmost portion of the tiger's range, on the island of Sumatra, a multi-tiered network beginning with the poacher collects Sumatran tiger bones and sends them to neighboring Singapore where they are sent on to either Hong Kong, China or Taiwan (Anon. 1992b). A former hunter, interviewed by the author in Padang, Sumatra in December of 1992, confirmed the relative ease and speed with which tigers and other endangered species are ferried into Singapore. An earlier report of Sumatran skins for sale in Singapore surfaced in 1988, when a British journalist was offered tiger skins and told he could be supplied with ten pelts a month, mostly from Sumatran tigers. Dealers claimed most of the buyers are from Singapore, Japan and Taiwan (Jackson 1989).
Conservationists have long claimed a Thailand -Taiwan route brings tigers (and their derivatives), rhino horn and other endangered species onto Taiwan. In 1991 a shipment of three live tiger cubs bound for Taiwan was seized in Bangkok. There have also been several instances of live Indochinese tigers shipped into Taiwan from Bangkok in 1989 and 1990 (Anon. 1990a). Investigators participating in this survey (covered in depth later in this report) also note pharmacists claim bones imported into Taiwan come from Thailand and China.
Vietnam is also becoming a prominent center for the trade in endangered species products, including tigers. Besides viewing tiger skins and a plethora of other endangered species in Vietnam in 1992, a team of two investigators also interviewed an Indonesian animal trader. Now living in Taiwan, the trader told the investigators he had occasionally taken gibbons and baby bears into Taiwan and, over a three month period, had smuggled 150 monkeys on to the island. He claimed to work for Reach Shipping S. A., a shipping company, saying getting animals past customs in Kaohsiung, a southern port city, was "easy" (Baird & Sly 1992). As more and more Taiwanese fishing and cargo vessels anchor in Vietnamese ports, and visits by Taiwanese tourists and businessmen increase, opportunistic and organized wildlife trade in tigers and other endangered species is sure to grow.
This survey was conducted over a four month period in 1992 by three investigators. All interviews were done covertly and investigators used a variety of techniques to obtain information about possession of tiger bone. Two successful interview techniques were to pose as a buyer interested in purchasing fairly large quantities of tiger bone; and to pose as a potential customer seeking a cure for an ailing relative and curious about the curative powers of tiger bone. A total of 115 traditional medicine shops in Taipei City and County were surveyed.
Five investigators recruited for the survey resigned after meeting with rejection and "suspicion" in their first attempts at conducting interviews. Three potential investigators, who had initially agreed to take part in the survey, opted out after the author repeatedly reminded them that results of the survey might not reflect positively on the ROC government (although that is not the intention of this report).
The author and two additional investigators also conducted interviews with traditional Chinese doctors, government officials and people either involved in, or knowledgeable of the trade in live tigers, tiger bones or other derivatives. In the majority of cases, individuals providing information used in compiling this report have requested anonymity, some because of involvement in the trade, and others - employees of government agencies and university professors in particular - because of a very real fear of persecution by their peers for helping gather information on this controversial issue.
The availability and use of manufactured medicines and tiger bone wines and other tonics has not been covered in this survey.
Finally, the trend of keeping tigers, either as pets or for financial gain through illegal breeding on "farms"; and human consumption of tiger meat, penises and other parts will be discussed.
Tiger bone, rhinoceros horn, bear gall bladders and other animal products are used extensively in Chinese medicine. To better understand this practice, it is helpful to understand Chinese medicine, which is based on the principle of homeostasis.
One Hong Kong professor describes Chinese medicine as "an integrated body of empirical knowl edge and experience developed in a similar way to that of a person trying to detect the physical changes of a sealed black box and to devise means to restore it to a 'normal' state" (But et al. 1990). By observing a wide range of physical and biological changes in humans, using a system of mutually opposing but interdepen dent and interchanging points, a physician can determine the location, nature, severity, and, in many cases, the cause of an illness. Upon diagnosis, a combination of herbal materials is prescribed in an effort to counter the imbalance(s) and restore the body's equilibrium.
The use of of animal parts in Chinese medicine stems from the belief that substances found in animal products are similar to those found in our own bodies. Therefore, the potency of a substance found in an animal drug will be many times more potent than that of a plant compound (Dharmananda 1986).
According to Ben Cao Gang Mu (the Compendium of Materia Medica) the tiger is a strong and fierce animal; even after death it can remain upright due to its strong tendons (Li @ 1570). Therefore, the front shank is the most potent and sought after bone because the animal's energy is focussed there, but the skull and leg bones are also used medicinally. The Chinese Medical Encyclopedia says the best tigers are found in China's Canton Province [South China Tiger], followed by Vietnam and Thailand [Indochinese Tiger] (Anon. 1979). In contrast, in the Encyclopedia of Chinese Materia Medica (ZhongYao DaZiDian), the NE tiger (Siberian) is considered superior (Anon. 1981).
Chinese Materia Medica lists two main uses for tiger bone. It is considered excellent for ridding the body of infection and it is an effective pain reliever (Anon. 1981). Many of the physicians interviewed say tiger bone today is principally used to treat spasms and pain, including various types of rheumatism; and to strengthen the bones. It can also allegedly calm the nerves, increase intelligence, cure dysentery, a prolapsed anus caused by chronic diarrhea, a bulging anus, forgetfulness and dislodge bones stuck in the throat (Li 1570). Sleeping on a tiger skull prevents nightmares and hanging the skull on a door wards off evil (Anon. 1979).
In traditional Chinese medicine Tiger bone is consumed in powder form and taken with water, mixed with other herbs or made into soups, wines or pills. Prior to being used medicinally, raw bones must be "treated," either baked, boiled or stir-fried (Li @1570).
Investigators visited retail pharmacies and a handful of dealers in Taipei's infamous Di Hua Street, the island's main wholesale medical district. Of the shops surveyed, prices, stated (and viewed) amounts of tiger bone in possession and comments about the frequency of use varied widely.
Of 115 shops surveyed a total of 68 shops (59.13%) were either in possession of tiger bone or offered to purchase it for investigators. Of these shops, 62 (53.91%) were actually in possession and 6 shops could obtain the bone upon request. Amounts on hand ranged from less than 1 liang (1 liang is equal to 50 grams but in traditional Chinese medicine, the measure equates to 37.5 grams) to over two cases, each case containing six "big" bags, with individual bags containing 10 large bones or 20-30 smaller bones.
Investigators were asked to inquire about possession and price only and to broach the subject of amounts in possession only if a shopkeeper seemed willing to talk. One investigator surveyed a total of 40 shops and was able to get amounts for 22 shops (Table 1). Although authentic tiger bones are widely avail able, the market seems to be, in the words of one physician, "flooded" with the bones of dogs, cattle, pigs and other animals. Differentiating between the bones of tigers and other animals is, in many cases, extremely difficult, especially when bones are broken into small pieces. Therefore, it is quite possible that some of the amounts listed as "authentic" in Table 1 are either a mixture of bones or the bones of other animals altogether.
In Table 1 the majority of shops possessing relatively large amounts of tiger bone are located in Taipei's primary wholesale medical district, Di Hua Street. A number of these shops said they had access to large quantities of tiger bone. Several shopkeepers in the Di Hua area claim business is "good" and "sales are up." One shop representative said he sells large quantities that are made into pills and "medicine wine."
In the spring and summer of 1992 a visiting conservationist surveyed (and filmed) 32 traditional medicine shops in Kaohsiung, Taipei, Taizhong and other areas across the island. Of 32 shops surveyed, more than 20 had one or more tiger products on full display (M.Day, pers. comm. 1993).
While prices for 1 liang (37.5 grams) were given in every shop that had tiger bone or fake bone, wholesale, kilogram prices were only given in six instances and are shown in Table 2. Prices for supposedly "authentic" tiger bone range from NT 20,000/kg (US$800.00) to NT 40,000/kg (US$1600).
shop authentic mixture fake 1 1.5 jin .5 jin 0 2 1 jin 0 0 3 0 10 liang 0 4 0 0 3-4 5 5 jin 0 0 6 1 jin+ 0 0 7 1 liang 0 0 8 "much" - a 0 0 9* 4 bags - b 0 0 10* 2 cases - c 0 0 11* 4 cases - d 0 0 12 3 cases 0 0 13* 3 bags - e 0 0 14* 2-3 jin 0 0 15 0 1 jin 0 16 1.5 jin 0 0 17 1.5 jin 0 0 18* 1 jin 0 0 19* 2 cases 0 0 20* 3-4 cases 0 0 21* "much" 0 0 22* 5-6 jin 5-6 bones 0
note: a. has access to "unlimited supply." b. twenty bones per bag. c. six big bags per case, larger bags have ten bones and smaller bags have 20-30 bones, varying in size. d. offered to provide unlimited amount to investigator. e. each bag contains 20-30 bones. * denotes shops in the Di Hua Street area, Taipei's wholesale medical district.
shop authentic mixture fake 1 NT33,333 - $1,333 none none 2 NT24,000 - $960 NT8,333 ($333) none 3 NT20,000 - $800 NT10,000 ($400) NT6,666($267) 4 NT20,000 - $800 none none 5 NT40,000 - $1,600 none none 6 NT23,333 - $583 NT6,666 ($267) none
note: Exchange rate used here is NT25-$1.00 USD.
Public tiger slaughters in the mid-eighties were common throughout Taiwan. In a four month period in 1984, seven tigers were slaughtered, their parts auctioned off to the public (Anon. 1984a). The slaughters were well advertised in advance: ads were taken out in local newspapers, men paraded through villages banging drums, and on one occasion a tiger slated for slaughter was paraded through villages in the bed of a pick-up truck while a loudspeaker blared out the time, date and venue of the slaughter (Anon. 1986). On yet another occasion leaflets read: Hearing it a hundred times is nothing compared to witnessing it with your own eyes a tiger will be butchered (Anon. 1984b). The events were well covered by the Taiwan press and often drew as many as 1,000 spectators.
A typical slaughter brought in as much as NT300,000, or US$12,000 at today's exchange rate, after subtracting the animal's initial price tag of NT350,000 or US$14,000. The tiger's meat sold for US$32-40 per catty, bones for US$600 per catty, leg bones for US$240 per catty, 50 bottles of blood (about 2,000cc of blood per tiger) for US$80 per bottle, "head" for US$600, tail for US$240, and the tongue sold for US$60 (Anon. 1984a). One owner said he didn't want to kill his tiger but did so after it "had grown bad-tempered and savage." This tiger's penis was sold for US$2,400 (Anon. 1984c).
The slaughters drew criticism from the expatriate community, civic groups and local and international conservation organizations, so were eventually driven underground. One merchant dealing in wild animals at the time said, "only a few cases of tiger slaughters ever reach the newspapers. Most are carried out in private" (Anon. 1984d). In 1984, according to a Taipei City Zoo official, 100 tigers were on Taiwan, 60 in private hands. The official also said most people kept tigers "as a source of income" (ibid.).
Today, tigers are protected by the ROC Wildlife Protection Law of 1989, yet tigers are still slaughtered. Their parts are auctioned off to a select clientele, including restauranteurs who use the meat, penis and other parts to prepare expensive, "exotic" dishes (Anon. 1990). One government agency employee says there are 80 tigers on Taiwan. Due to a lack of manpower, the Taipei Department of Reconstruction and Planning charged with monitoring all privately owned endangered wildlife and other government agencies are unable to adequately monitor the tigers. Nor is the department able to determine whether or not they are breeding. As a result it is possible for off spring to be sold without government knowledge.
More recent instances of tigers held in private hands or slaughtered have surfaced: In 1991 residents in Taipei City reported a tiger (and orangutan) kept in a flimsy dog cage on a city sidewalk. Fearing for the safety of everyone, especially children who may stray too close to the cage, residents filed a complaint (Anon. 1991b). The day after the complaint was filed, newspapers ran the story and quoted a government official as saying an "on-site" investiga tion would be conducted that same day. By the time Department of Reconstruction and Planning officials visited the location, the tiger was gone, and despite Earthtrust requests for information, officials refused to comment on the case. All investigations were dropped.
In 1990, to settle a dispute with a business partner, Lin Fu-An took custody of seven lions, seven tigers and four bears brought to Taiwan with the Royal London Circus. Lin claimed the circus lost US$2 million while touring Taiwan but former circus employees say the circus toured to packed houses and viewed Lin's scheme as a way of taking over ownership of the circus animals (J. Althof. pers. comm.). The author interviewed several circus employees and all said a litter of tiger cubs was born while the circus toured, only to be sold in the city of Kaohsiung. A second set of cubs was born, three died and their bodies were never accounted for. In the end, in the face of unrelenting bad press, Lin donated the eight tigers, including one cub and nine surviving lions (including four cubs born during the ordeal) to the Taipei Zoo and allowed the bear's legal owner to take them out of Taiwan.
The incident was a microcosm of the many inherent law enforcement problems and attitudes toward wildlife conservation on Taiwan; The lions were fed very little and after months of growing weaker and weaker, two died. "They're not endangered so it's no big deal," stated one of Lin's employees. The first litter of live tiger cubs and the three dead cubs from the second litter were almost certainly sold as either pets or for human consumption. Lin Fu-An was convicted of animal abuse the first such conviction in ROC history only to have the decision overturned after appealing to Taiwan's high court (Anon. 1991c); and, in an effort to quiet his former employees, Lin Fu-An dispatched a gang of men to beat two animal trainers one required hospitalization who had complained of Lin to the press.
Other instances of tigers being kept as pets and /or consumed continue to surface: One tiger "farmer" told a group of foreign conservationists that between 200-300 tigers are in private hands on Taiwan (Day and LaBudde 1993); a shipping company executive informed the author of a slaughter in Kaohsiung in 1991 a man offered him tiger meat and, perplexed, the executive asked how the man knew it was actually tiger meat. The reply: "I saw them kill the tiger." The author has received reports of two other farms, one in central Taiwan and the other in the northern port city of Keelung.
An artist recently depicted a tiger slaughter he witnessed in Keelung. The painting shows three men huddling over a skinned, unrecognizable carcass. One of the men has just removed the tiger's heart. The artist says he wants the painting to capsulize the event, for future generations to see, finding it incredible that we as humans are still capable of such cruelty.
The tiger is revered for its strength and sexual prowess. Chinese legend has it that consuming parts of the tiger enables the user to briefly harness the animal's power. Tie that belief in with the Taiwanese obsession with sexual performance: newspapers advertise various potions guaranteed to enhance a male's sexual ability and allow him to better pleasure his partner. Promotions of sexual aids have even found their way onto network television.
A traditional method of using tiger penises is to soak the penis in a tonic or expensive brandy for extended periods at least six months according to one source. Just prior to sex, the consumer takes a "slug."
The author visited, in October 1992, a Snake Alley establishment specializing in "mountain products" (the name implies, among other things, exotic wildlife) and was allowed to view the sales pitch for a tonic said to contain seal and tiger penises. The tonic costs US$8 a shot and $US40 per bottle. Midway thought the pitch, as a group of at least 30 men looked on, a hawker brought a scantily clad woman out of a back room and stood her in front of his captive audience. Upon noticing a foreign face in the crowd, the hawker ordered the other patrons to crowd in front of the "outsider" as foreigners do not understand Chinese ways. When none of the men complied, the hawker's tone grew exceedingly violent and he began yelling directly at the author and one other Westerner, at which point we departed.
In December 1992, a Taiwanese Earthtrust investigator visited the same shop and recorded the entire event. The tonic in question, according to the hawker, was guaranteed to vastly improve a man's sexual staying power. "If you drink this," he joked, "tonight you won't be able to get that zipper up!" At one point a prostitute was again brought out for all to see. To prove the efficacy of the potion, the prostitute was placed behind a thin, gauze-like screen some ten feet from her audience. At the hawker's command and as the audience looked on, one of his colleagues mounted the woman....
Exotic, unusual foods are also popular on Taiwan. One Taizhong based restaurant, Pu Chung Pao, caters to the islands wealthy; in December 1992 the establishment prepared an NT500,000 or US$20,000 meal in the recipe of the imperial court of the Ching Dynasty for a party of fifteen (Anon. 1993b). The restaurant also serves tiger penis soup at NT8,000 or US$320 per serving (Anon. 1991). In December 1992 a foreign television station visited Pu Chung Pao and taped an interview with the restaurant's head waitress, Miss "Casey." The full text of the interview follows:
Interviewer: Please tell us what these items are.
Miss Casey: Let's start from here. This is a swallow's nest, the best type. This is shark fin. This is dried sea cucumber. This is a tiger penis. Underneath, the longer one, that is a deer penis, the ones in the back are tiger penises. This is a cobra and that is Korean ginseng.
I: Is the tiger penis imported?
C: All our tiger penises are imported, mostly from Northeast China and Thailand. The ones from Northeast China are better tigers from cold places are better.
I: How is it prepared?
C: As soup. This is already dried. First we soak it for about a week, then when it's soft we start to simmer it. While it is simmering we add about 24- types of medicine, kinds that are good for men. We simmer it for between 24 and 26 hours.
I: Is it popular?
C: Yes, here in Taiwan. Especially among men.
I: How many do you serve a week?
C: We sell more in the winter, because it warms the body. People don't eat the soup in summer. We serve it four or five times a season. It's expensive so not many people eat it.
I: How much does it cost?
C: One tiger penis makes soup for eight people, it costs around eight thousand NT. For 14 or 15 people, we use two tiger penises, then it costs 16 thousand NT.
After portions of this interview ran on the island's English language radio station in early December 1992, representatives of the restaurant denied serving dishes containing tiger penises.
On paper, trade in tigers, tiger bones and all other derivatives is illegal. In November 1986 the use of tiger bones and tiger bone "glue" in manufactured medicines was outlawed and in 1989, under the ROC Wildlife Conservation Law, trade in live wildlife and their products was prohibited. No steps have been taken to implement either law. If trade in tiger bone and other endangered species is to be arrested, the following steps must be taken:
1. Establish a unit to investigate and arrest trade in endangered species.
Such a unit would need law-enforcement power, total autonomy (answering only to the president or other high level officials) and qualified, dedicated personnel. The unit would ideally be modelled after the South African Police Endangered Species Protec tion Unit (ESPU) and/or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), recognized as two of the top endangered wildlife trade investigation agencies in the world.
The system currently in place on Taiwan calls for enlisting police officers, at the Council of Agriculture's (COA) request, to conduct raids on pet shops, pharmacies, and restaurants serving endangered species. (The COA is Taiwan's national "scientific authority.") However, corruption and complacency in the ranks of law enforcement (and customs) officials is rife and, under the current system, their ability to expose smuggling networks is questionable.
ESPU Commander Major Pieter Lategan has already visited Taiwan in an effort to forge better ties with government and law enforcement officials. The USFWS was instrumental in setting up South Africa's ESPU and has trained other units around the world. Ideally, personnel from one or both of these units should be involved in training and assisting with the creation of a similar unit on Taiwan.
The impact a Taiwanese Fish and Wildlife Service could have on trade in endangered species must be emphasized here. Major Lategan has said one or two significant busts would change the whole profile of smuggling on the island. A small group of trained and dedi cated Taiwanese personnel could, within its first months of operation, easily infiltrate and stop a portion of the major smuggling rings based in Taiwan.
The creation of an FWS type unit would be the single greatest contribution Taiwan could offer to insure the survival of the world's remaining tigers. It would demonstrate Taiwan's commitment to protecting endangered wildlife and, in the process, help restore Taiwan's severely tarnished international image.
2. Increase penalties.
The current system of fines and possible imprisonment for dealing in tiger bone and other endangered species products is hardly a deterrent to present and would-be traders. Article 33 of the Wildlife Conservation Law calls for "a fine as well as a potential prison sentence of up to two years" for trading in protected species. Unfortunately, fines are disproportionately low. In the case of rhino horn, for example, a November 1992 law states "frequent offenders" dealing in the contraband face a US$1,200 fine less than the price of a kg of horn. And in relation to possible jail terms, a substantial loophole exists: Jail sentences of six months or less need not be served and can be paid off with a fine. Lin Fu-An (covered in section on Tiger slaughters) was sentenced to six months in jail when convicted of animal abuse in 1990. Had he not appealed (and won) he could have paid off his full sentence for less than US$400.
Improved legislation should also treat false advertising of products containing tiger bone with the same severity as products actually containing the substance. Otherwise, manufacturers of certain medicines and tonics will be able to capitalize on traditional beliefs in tiger bone and other protected wildlife goods only to avoid prosecution, if caught, by claiming their products do not contain proscribed substances and were only advertised as such.
Discussion regarding live tigers kept as pets is also necessary. Since each of these animals were either illegally brought onto Taiwan or are offspring of illegally bred tigers, they should be confiscated.
3. Increase government sponsored education programs.
Despite the availability of substitutes, Taiwan's traditional medicine practitioners, on the whole, have been remarkably slow to adopt the plausibility of substitutes for tiger bone. Lack of enforcement it is quite likely that the majority of pharmacists on Taiwan have never felt a ban on the use of these products would ever be enforced is partially to blame for this attitude but education and the promotion of alterna tives has also been inadequate.
To correct this problem, all available information on substitutes for tiger bone, along with information on the precarious situation of the species, new legislation, and other pertinent information should be compiled and widely disseminated.
Public Service Announcements and other educational/promotional materials should also be created and shown on national radio and television, in the print media and in schools across Taiwan.
Increased education of customs, law enforcement and other pertinent government officials is also a necessity. This could be done in conjunction with the establishment of an endangered species trade unit (detailed in item one of this section).
4. Contribute funds to conservation work in Tiger range states.
All Asian nations could do much more to protect their tigers from poaching with increased funding. In 1992 Taiwan reportedly provided a combined US$100 million in foreign aid to South Africa and Niger. And according to the local press, the ROC recently decided to increase its annual foreign aid budget to 0.15% of the Gross National Product (GNP). The forecast of a US$229 billion GNP for 1993 means up to $344 million will be available for foreign aid use this year alone.
A fraction of this amount donated to Nepal, Indonesia, India and other range states would enable them to improve their conservation effort and better protect their tigers. A substantial donation might mean the difference between the survival or extinction of certain vulnerable populations, if not an entire species.
Many countries are finally realizing the importance of preserving endangered species of wildlife for future generations (China, for example, recently announced a US$52 million, ten year program to restore and expand Panda habitat). Should Taiwan follow suit and shoulder part of the financial burden for the global tiger conservation effort, the action would be applauded by the international community.


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When I was in college there was this guy, Jim*, who lived on my co-ed floor. Every weekend Jim's girlfriend would brave the snowy, unsalted roads of the North Country and spend the weekend with him – in his dorm room. Deemed the most sexually active floor on campus (the health office actually prevented the R.A. from taking any more condoms for his floor halfway through the year), it was no guess what the two were up to.
A few months into the year, I found out that Jim had lost over 120-pounds just by having more than his fair share of sex and I thought this guy must be on to something.
It's no secret that you work up a sweat during any romp session, but in the last few years we have seen more sex and health experts boasting the benefits of a healthy sex life. Here are the top 3 reasons you could skip the gym and hit the sack:
Calorie Burn
Sexologist Jaiya Kinzbach and relationship expert Gilda Carle are just two professionals who agree that calorie burn is one of the biggest benefits of a great sex life.
Here is a breakdown of the estimated calories burned for each sexual activity:
- Kissing – 70 calories per hour
- Undressing your Partner – 8-15 calories
- Sexy Massage – 80+ calories per hour
- Getting Down & Dirty – 160+ calories per half-hour
- Oral Sex – 100 calories per half-hour
- "Making Out" High School Style – 238 calories per half-hour
Curb Carb Cravings
Bad for you carbs are the weakness of all of mankind. Recently Dr. Oz stated that, in theory, sexual activity including watching porn, having sex, sexual thoughts and sexting can be used to curb your carb cravings.
Carbs release serotonin in the body which gives you that euphoric feeling after downing half a pizza with your buddies. However, empty carbs leave you wanting more shortly after you finished eating.
Sexual activities release oxytocin which is another feel good chemical of the body. By satisfying your carb cravings with sexual activity, you could not only shake off a few pounds but also rev up your sex life big time.
Increase Stamina
Sex is a great way to increase your stamina for physical activity. Unlike the daunting task of running on a treadmill for 60 minutes, sex is actually enjoyable (we hope).
While you are in the mood and showcasing your best moves to your partner, you are not thinking about how fast your heart is racing or how short your breaths are.
Sex offers the perfect distraction to those smaller factors that often lead to shutting down a fitness machine before you've really gotten a workout in.
But guys, that's not all. When you show your girlfriend or wife these sexy benefits she will not only find you irresistibly smart but be ready and willing to satisfy your sexual cravings knowing she's reaping the same great benefits.

subset: commoncrawl


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However, a number of us have impotence or ED, as well as nearly all male deal with ED issues at some phase in their life. Erectile dysfunction can be brought on by anything from efficiency anxiousness and tension to drugs as well as wellness conditions.
A lot of those that could overcome their ED issues report that it assists the, increase their room self-confidence. Yet additionally they discovered a brand-new charge to their sex life and had far better capacity to satisfy their partner.
There are medications and also prescription medications that help with erectile dysfunction, yet one of the significant disadvantages of them are the unfavorable side effects. The most usual drugs drop under the group of medicines called PDE-5 (phosphodiesterase-5) inhibitors. These include:
- Viagra or Kamagra (Sildenafil)
- Levitra (Vardenafil)
- Cialis (Tadalafil)
- Stendra (Avanafil).
PDE-5 preventions are just readily available on prescription. A doctor will certainly check for heart conditions and inquire about various other medicines being taken prior to prescribing.
Side-effects connected with PDE-5 inhibitors include:
- Flushing
- Head going "thick"
- Vision irregularities
- Hearing loss
- Acid indigestion
- Moderate to Extreme
- Frustrations
- Migraines
There are also medications that could be injected in your area into the penis but this is an extremely uncomfortable shot. A lot of guys like a tablet, yet with the adverse effects that they feature, is it really worth it?
The good news is, there are a couple of really potent natural supplements and also devices that are well-researched with very few adverse effects such as Jes-Extender and Male Extra.
Supplements Improve Male Erection Naturally
L-Arginine HCL
This amino acid is exchanged nitric oxide in your body, as well as countless research studies have actually demonstrated its performance on male sex-related efficiency as well as erection top quality. In one research, 37% of guys with impotence reported a considerable enhancement in their capability to obtain as well as preserve an erection after taking l-arginine daily for simply over a month. In a different research, an additional 31% of men with erectile problems experienced substantial improvement in both their erections and sex-related efficiency after taking l-arginine for 6 weeks, and also their nitric oxide degrees increased as well.
Pomegranate 40% Ellagic Acid
Pomegranate includes high quantities of antioxidant-rich ellagic acid, which is so reliable at enhancing blood circulation that study discovered individuals consuming alcohol pomegranate juice daily showed a 17% increase in blood circulation in simply 90 days. After eight weeks of drinking pomegranate juice, males in an additional research study reported experiencing better erections, while yet another research discovered that pomegranate not only enhances blood circulation, but additionally hold-ups exhaustion throughout exercise. Exactly what's even more, the antioxidants in pomegranate have been revealed to shield nitric oxide from totally free radical damage, which actually enhances its impact on blood flow.
MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane).
MSM is an organic form of sulphur, a mineral that, in addition to supporting blood circulation, is essential to your cell as well as tissue wellness– including those in your penis. Without adequate MSM, your cells could end up being weak as well as your body can not build solid and healthy brand-new cells.
L-Methionine Improve Male Erection Naturally
A vital amino acid, L-methionine is believed to function by obstructing the conversion of histidine into the hormone histamine. Histamine plays an essential function in accomplishing orgasm; the higher the degrees of it, the faster you are most likely to climax, which is why high degrees of histamine have actually been linked to premature climaxing. By decreasing your histamine levels, L-methionine can help you last much longer in bed by postponing ejaculation.
Zinc (as Citrate)
This necessary mineral plays an important function in your testosterone production. One research study discovered testosterone degrees in males on a reduced zinc diet plan plummeted by a whopping 75% after 20 weeks8. The same research study additionally showed testosterone levels practically doubled after enhancing zinc intake in a various team of men. Reduced testosterone levels could create mayhem with your sex drive and also your erections, yet most men don't obtain sufficient zinc in their diet plan. Zinc shortage can likewise decrease your feeling of odor, which one research study uncovered could actually reduce your libido. Improve Male Erection Naturally
Utilized in Chinese medication for countless years as an all-natural aphrodisiac, many researches have actually shown the powerful capacity of this kind of fungi to enhance libido as well as sex-related feature. Researchers believe this results from 2 chemicals in cordyceps called deoxyadenosine as well as cordycepic acid, which appear to have a direct effect on the location of our mind in charge of managing libido. In one research, over fifty percent of volunteers reported an increase in their libido after taking cordyceps, while in an additional study, 64% of guys taking it experienced a renovation in their erections, compared to only 23.8% of a placebo group.
Additionally referred to as vitamin B3, research studies have actually revealed that niacin boosts blood flow by assisting capillary loosen up and broaden. In one study, men with impotence experienced a substantial renovation in their capability to preserve an erection when taking an everyday dosage of niacin while those taking a placebo pill experienced no distinction whatsoever to their erections. Niacin likewise helps reduce tiredness and tiredness, which suggests much more endurance in the bedroom.
Male Extra – Our recommended supplement
The supplements above are all extremely potent, with few negative effects and also all natural. It would be a little bothersome to take them all different, and also costly to develop your own pill. The good news is, the men behind Male Extra, have actually a put together a proven formula to put your sex-life into high gear. They typically run great sale campaigns, as well as offer great deals if you order in bulk.
>> Click here to order Male Extra <<
Devices Improve Male Erection Naturally
In 1994 a device called the Jes-Extender was created, which as the possible to grow your penis by approximately 24% from its original size. The Jes-Extender has currently offered over 500,000 systems, however much more importantly it has been verified to work and is extensively recommended by medical professionals. The British Journal of Urology, wrote in April 2011, "It seems that penile extenders stand for the only evidence-based technique of penile prolongation". Handmade in Denmark and also offered in various variants, we at Nude Contentment highly suggest the Jes-Extender.
>> Click here to order Jes-Extender <<
Reclaiming the room crown
To obtain rid of any kind of troubles in the room or with ED, we highly recommend a combination of supplements like Male Extra and a gadget such as the Jes-Extender. This will boost the power of both methods as they multiply when made use of in mix. Combining the two will enable you to take your partner by tornado and also have her crave for even more!


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Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting experiences that any couple will get to have. The wedding itself will be an event that will hopefully remain a once in a lifetime experience, so of course everyone wants the big day to be as special and unique as possible. Plenty of people opt for a traditional wedding, but if you're willing to think out of the box and go big, then a destination wedding may be more your style. There's nothing that says you have to get married in any particular place, so why not pick a destination that maybe has significant meaning for you or just seems downright thrilling or romantic?
Destination weddings do tend to make people hesitate, what with the financial and logistical issues of it all, but every wedding comes with its own set of planning hurdles, so don't let that stop you from dreaming big. Whether you're looking at a particular city/venue in the United States, or overseas, it always pays to see what kind of package deal you can get, as you can often save majorly this way. If you're planning on leaving the country, keep in mind that you'll have to bring copies of important documents, and that these may need to be translated into the host country's language.
The Greek Islands:
Scattered across the Aegean, the Greek Islands make for a beautiful backdrop for any wedding. Known for its for whitewashed villages and towns, often perched dramatically above the brilliant blue waters below, the island territories of Greece offer a wide range of options for couples. Each island seems to come with its own distinct feel. Some are more cosmopolitan, others remote and serene, while still others come with a true Old – even Ancient – World feel. Popular destinations include Crete, famous for its Minoan ruins and mountainous terrain; Corfu, desired for its medieval architecture, graceful villas, and numerous cultural attractions; and Rhodes, known for its striking views, archeological sites, and historic buildings.
Florida Keys:
Great for those wanting a taste of tropical paradise without having to leave the country, the Florida Keys offer distinct opportunities for culture and carefree relaxation. Plan a beachside wedding or book a venue in a historic home or inn. Key West is the main draw of the islands and makes for a perfect wedding location, considering that it offers easy access to venues, florists, caterers, and lodgings. Apart from its multitude of white sand beaches, the Keys also boast impressive historical attractions, such as Fort Jefferson, Fort Zachary Taylor, and the Ernest Hemingway House. Don't miss out on the nightlife scene, either.
If you're wanting tropical, but southern portions of the United States just aren't exotic enough, then Fiji is definitely for you. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the laidback, tropical lifestyle that such island nations have to offer, while immersing yourself in a completely different culture. Fiji is comprised of hundreds of islands, thus offering an almost endless array of opportunities. The main island is a bit more cosmopolitan and comes with a wide selection of resorts, whereas smaller islands offer a bit more intimate peace and quiet. Book in at a private hotel or inn, or partake in a great package opportunity at a private island resort. One of the major benefits of arranging a destination at resorts like these is that they typically have wedding coordinators that can arrange not only the ceremony, but also handle all of the technical issues of getting married in a foreign country.
Italian Riviera:
A popular travel destination for any occasion, the Italian Riviera is a distinctly beautiful region that also happens to be perfectly situated for easy access to major European cities and regions. San Remo, Genoa, and the quaint towns and villages of the Cinque Terre are all major hotspots for visitors, and absolutely perfect for weddings. Genoa boasts an Old World, metropolitan vibe, offering great wedding venues as well as culture and entertainment. The smaller towns and villages of the Cinque Terre are far more intimate, and therefore perhaps a little more romantic. Enjoy dramatic seaside vistas perched high over the Mediterranean or surround yourself with the ambiance of ancient cities.
Rio de Janeiro:
This stunning metropolitan powerhouse is an ideal choice for a destination wedding. Pristine beaches, beautiful blue water, glorious historic architecture, and towering mountains provide a truly breathtaking atmosphere for any couple. Rio also makes for a perfect wedding locale for U.S. residents because the more comfortable months (yet still warm and tropical) coincide with American summers, making it easier for friends and family to find vacation time to join you for your special day.


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However, I have a special card today. I work 2 nights a week as a midwife and have a colleague who is just the best. When I get snowed under attending to patients, she just quietly gets all the necessary stuff done. I would be lost without her as my right hand man!
Don't we often forget to thank those kind of people. Well today, I decided to let her know how much I appreciate all that she does. Here is the card that I will be giving her tonight.
I have used Memento Tuxedo Black to stamp the light image from Kaisercraft. The background is then coloured using Distress Inks in Mustard Seed, Dried Marigold, Dusty Concord and Peeled Paint. The 'Thanks' is cut using a Silhouette Cameo and then inked and raised up on tiny pieces of clear foam tape. The lace is just a piece that I had lying around my stash.
I hope you are having a creative day,


text: Dacon and in-house architectural affiliate, PDA Incorporated, were hired to design and build this 96,000 SF three-story MetroWest building in Framingham. Dacon designed, permitted, engineered and constructed this multi-use facility with no disruption to the company's operations. The project included a 50,000 SF style out center, 5,000 SF product development library, 20,000 SF employee fitness center, 10,000 SF of vendor viewing rooms, and a 360 foot, fully enclosed connector bridge for pedestrian traffic. The project was completed in late 2014.


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albidum Wild Sassafras
SASS-uh-frass AL-bi-dum
Easyliving Native Perennial Wildflowers Native Wild
Flower Seeds and Plants
for Home Landscaping and Prairie Restorations email@example.com
|Bloom Period
small Yellow
|Plant Spacing
| Sun
part Shade
|April May
|Black fruit in fall
|15 to 60 feet
|average to moist
|10 to 20 ft
Sassafras albidum
Sassafras is the host plant for
Click on pictures for larger images
albidum Sassafras potted plants are $8.00
each plus
Potted Plants are available
The fruit is eaten by many species of birds,
and the leaves are browsed by woodchucks, deer, rabbits, and bears. The leaves
are also a primary food for a host of spectacular moths and butterflies,
including the spicebush swallowtail.
Larval Host: Spicebush butterfly, Tiger swallow-tail, Palamedes butterflies, Pale Swallowtail.
email us with your mailing address and number of plants for the cost of shipping potted plants.
For our other native wildflowers visit the Wildflower Seed and Potted Plant Price List
to order copy and mail the order form
email questions, comments, and orders to firstname.lastname@example.com
We accept payment by check, money order or through PayPal
Sassfras seeds are not available at this time
Uses Ethnobotanic: All parts of the sassafras plant are spicy and aromatic. The roots, bark, leaves, new shoots, and pith from the branches of sassafras were used extensively for a wide variety of purposes by may Native American tribes including the Cherokee, Chippewa, Choctaw, Creek, Delaware, Oklahoma, Houma, Iroquois, Koasati, Mohegan, Nanticoke, Rappahannock, and Seminole. The medicinal uses of sassafras by Native Americans were many. Infusions made from the bark of the roots were taken internally as a preventive to ward off fever, as well as a remedy to treat diarrhea, rheumatism, measles, and scarlet fever. An infusion of the roots was used as a blood purifier, and as a dietary aid to treat "overfattness." Infusions of the plant were used as a cough medicine, mouthwash, and gargle for colds. Root infusions were also used to treat fevers that occurred in women after giving birth and as a wash for eyesores. Decoctions made from roots were used to treat heart troubles. An infusion of the plant was mixed with whiskey and used for rheumatism, tapeworms, and as a blood remedy to purify the blood. The leaves were made into a poultice that would be rubbed onto bee stings, wounds, cuts, sprained ankles, and bruises. Nosebleeds were treated with a decoction made from the pith of new sprouts. The pith from branches was made into a decoction used to wash and dress burns. Infusions of the plant were used to treat lower chest pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation and diarrhea. The bark was used as an emetic purification after funeral ceremonies. Bark infusions were given to babies and children to treat itching, enlarged eyes, fever, drooling, and loss of appetite. Children with worms drank and were bathed in an infusion that included the bark of sassafras. The plant was taken to treat gallstones and bladder pain. In addition to this variety of medicinal uses, sassafras was used for food, construction and other purposes. The leaves were used fresh as a spice, much like bay leaves, for flavoring in meat soups. Leaves were dried and pounded and used as a thickening agent and to add flavor to foods and soups. "Filé", made from the ground roots or leaves, is an important spice used today in Cajun foods, such as gumbo. The white or red roots, made a pleasant-tasting tea, although the red roots were preferred. The wood from the sassafras tree was used to make furniture. The flowers were used as a fertilizer when planting beans. The plant was used as a fragrance to scent soap. The bark contains oil of sassafras, an important flavoring.
Wildlife: The fruits are readily eaten by wildlife. Birds, such as quails, wild turkeys, kingbirds, crested flycatchers, mockingbirds, sapsuckers, pileated woodpeckers, yellowthroat warblers and phoebes eat the fruits and disperse the seeds. Black bears, beaver, rabbits and squirrels eat the fruit, bark and wood. White-tailed deer browse the twigs and foliage.
Other: Sassafras has been cultivated since 1630 for its leaves, bark, and wood. The plants are used for tea, oil, and soap. The heartwood is orange-brown and course-grained. It is used for purposes requiring lightwood, such as boat construction, because it is soft but durable.
Status - Please consult the PLANTS Web site and your State Department of Natural Resources for this plant's current status (e.g. threatened or endangered species, state noxious status, and wetland indicator values).
Description - General: Laurel Family (Lauraceae). Sassafras is a native, perennial, deciduous shrub or tree. The trees are short to medium-tall (9 to 18 m), and spread from 6 to 8 m. Young trees have greenish bark. Older trees have reddish brown bark that is rough, thick, and deeply ridged. The leaves are alternate and variable in shape with either none or one to three lobes at the apex. The two-lobed leaves are mitten-shaped. The leaves are light, bright green during the summer and turn to bright yellow-orange and red-orange in the fall. The trees are dioecious (a tree will have either male or female flowers) with fragrant flowers. The female flowers (1cm across), borne on small, terminal clusters before the leaves, are without petals, but have six greenish-yellow sepals (3 to 5 mm long). Male flowers are inconspicuous. The female trees have small, oval fruits (6 to 10 mm) that are dark blue with thick, red stalks. The leaf buds appear at the same time the tree flowers in early spring. The fruits ripen in the fall.
Distribution: Sassafras is native to the eastern United States. For current distribution, please consult the Plant Profile page for this species on the PLANTS Web site.
Habitat: This plant is a pioneer tree on disturbed sites in its native range. It is adapted to various soils with low pH. It can be found in woodlands, fields and along roadsides.
Establishment - Sassafras trees are valued for their fragrant spring bloom, interesting horizontal branching pattern, and striking fall color. The small trees are medium to fast growing and work well for landscape use as specimen trees and mass plantings. They are easy to culture and require little care. Although adapted to dry, sandy soils, they do best in moist, fertile soils in partial to full shade. Seeds, root-cuttings or suckers may propagate sassafras trees. Seeds are produced every one or two years after the plant reaches the minimum seed-bearing age of ten years. Seeds may be gathered when the fruits turn a dark blue. Seeds should be cleaned and stored at cool temperatures where they will last for up to two years. The seeds require prechilling for 120 days in order to germinate. Sow the seeds .5 to 1.5 cm deep in prepared beds in the late fall. The plants do not transplant well because of a deep taproot. It is therefore best to purchase young plants that have been grown in containers for successful transplanting.
Pests and Potential Problems -- The trees can develop a variety of insect and disease problems that are generally not serious. Insects will eat the foliage, but rarely eat the entire leaves. The plants may experience root rot if grown in wet, clay soils.
Sassfras potted plants are $8.00 each plus UPS shipping.
email with your zip code and number of plants for availability and shipping charges on potted plants
The map below shows areas where native Sassafras albidum trees grow wild but they can be planted and will grow over most of the Midwest and Eastern US. USDA plant hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Sassfras albidum
Plant distribution map
complements of USDA, NRCS. 2001. The PLANTS Database, Version 3.1
(http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.
Please contact us by email for availability and shipping charges on Sassafras albidum Sassafras potted plants
to order copy and mail the order
email questions, comments and orders to firstname.lastname@example.com
Sassafras albidum seeds are NOT available at this time. Sassfras seeds are best when planted fresh in the fall and do not germinate until the next spring.
We accept payment by check, money order, and through Paypal
the chart below for shipping charges on our other native wild flower seeds,
The minimum seed order amount is $10, this can be a combination of different seeds on this site.
subtotal for flower seeds
shipping charge for seeds
seed orders up to $20.00 =
$4.00 shipping
$20.01 - $50.00 =
$6.00 shipping
$50.01-$100.00 =
$7.50 shipping
over $100.00 = 7.5 % of subtotal
Flower Pictures Wildflower Seed and Potted Plant Price list Order Form
Easyliving Wildflowers
PO Box 522
Willow Springs, MO. 65793
Phone 417-469-2611
We accept payment by check or money order and through PayPal
e-mail questions, comments, and orders to firstname.lastname@example.com
Leaves alternate, simple, aromatic when crushed, 4–6 inches long, 2–4 inches wide, broadest at the middle; having 3 shapes (entire; with a single lobe on one side like a mitten; or trident-shaped), tip pointed or rounded, base tapered.
Bark aromatic, reddish-brown to gray, with deep grooves and firm, long, flat-topped ridges.
Twigs moderately stout, curved upward at the tips, yellowish-green becoming greenish-brown with age; broken twigs have a spicy odor.
Flowers April–May. Male and female flowers occur on separate trees in stalked, branched clusters about 2 inches long, at the tips of twigs; flowers small, yellow, petals absent; sepals 6, spreading.
Fruits in late August–October. Berrylike, widest at the middle, about ½ inch long, dark blue, shiny, attached to a swollen stalk; stalk about 1½ inches long, red.
Occurs on the border of dry woods, glades, prairies, and in bottomland soils in valleys; also along roadsides, railroads, idle fields, pastures, fence rows, and thickets. Long in cultivation, sassafras requires full sun for best growth. One of our most striking and aromatic trees.
The fruit is eaten by many species of birds, and the leaves are browsed by woodchucks, deer, rabbits, and bears. The leaves are also a primary food for a host of spectacular moths and butterflies, including the spicebush swallowtail.
The aromatic sassafras is a 35-50 ft., deciduous tree with horizontal branching in cloud-like tiers. The mahogany-brown bark is deeply ridged and furrowed. Little bunches of yellow-green flower balls are scattered profusely over the female tree; more sparsely on the male. Dark-blue fruits on scarlet stalks appear on female plants in late summer. Bright-green, mitten-shaped, oval, or three-lobed leaves have outstanding fall color.
The roots and root bark supply oil of sassafras (used to perfume soap) and sassafras tea, and have been used to flavor root beer. Explorers and colonists thought the aromatic root bark was a panacea, or cure-all, for diseases and shipped quantities to Europe. The greenish twigs and leafstalks have a pleasant, spicy, slightly gummy taste. Sassafras apparently is the American Indian name used by the Spanish and French settlers in Florida in the middle of the 16th century. This is the northernmost New World representative of an important family of tropical timbers.
Description: Sow seed
outdoors in the fall or stratify the seed and sow in spring. Sassafras may be
multiplied from root cuttings taken in early spring before the plant leafs out.
Sassafras freely produces root suckers which can be dug and moved. Dig around
the suc
Seed Collection: Collect the fruits when they are filled out and dark blue. Only a small percentage of sassafras trees bear fruit. Clean the seeds before planting or storage. Briefly air dry. (Do not overdry if they are to be planted immediately. Store in sealed, refrigerated containers.
Seed Treatment: Stratify at 41 degrees for 30-60 days.


text:
- Jo-Anne
- valued helper
- Ontario, Canada
April Newsletter
|11 Apr '06 3:26 pm
Congrats to Tiger on the MVP contest. What a sweetie! Sorry to hear that Rusty spent time in the doghouse penalty box for roughing up the Head Gardener. Hope your eye suffered no longlasting damage, Moosey, and that he's been let out and you're doing better now too.
I remember the first pic you showed of the Birthday Rose Garden and I'm very pleased to see it looking so wonderful now. What a wonderful gift it's turned out to be.
Hope those cute young ewes managed to lure Charles out of his hedge hideaway. LOL
Thanks again for a lovely newsletter visit from your part of the world, Moosey. All the best from Canada, Cheers. Jo-Anne


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Best Software training institute in Hyderabad
Located in Hyderabad, Telangana, Our Whitetalent Finishing School Training Institute now brings the best Software courses for Students, freshers and professionals. Our Real time Training programmes are the best in terms of expertise and quality. We offer a wide range of the most trending and the best Java, Android, Angular JS & Web Designing courses.
WHITE TALENT Finishing School is an extension of YINSOL . The name YINSOL is rooted in the origins of creation and it symbolizes, epitomizes, and glorifies the primal life giving and life sustaining force that permeates the entire universe. We have made a sincere, genuine and humble effort to capture the essence of this primal force. For us the essence translates to life giving and life sustaining solutions in the software services realm. Established in 2012, YINSOL has provided all encompassing software solutions to customers across the globe by successfully maneuvering the changing dynamics of offshore software development.
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Invest in thought
Understanding business process, identifying the right technology and mapping them innovatively is our perspective of a business service. Our secret to success has been out ability to listen, think, innovate and apply.
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We believe in providing quality work every time we do it. Our psyche has been geared to produce quality irrespective of the client and the cost. A good job goes a long way in giving us more clients and more importantly we have a reputation to protect.
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We believe right processes can take care of any probable business exigencies that might need to be accomodated. We are ever ready!!
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We hire the best and create an environment that helps them learn and grow. We provide freedom to experiment and learn. We make YINSOL an enjoyable place to work.
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We slip and slide on the learning curve and aspire to ride the crest of the knowledge wave. Being a fun loving company we make room in our day to explore and innovate. We follow our noses and learn and also teach.
Quality assurance
We are committed to the highest standard of quality for all our projects and provide special attention to every stage of the process of delivery or production.Once a partner, always a partner. We value relationships and nurture it for a lifetime.


text:
Herb Chambers, Kevin Youkilis, and Biz Markie might be the oddest and most random group of guys you can conjure up. But for some reason this commercial felt fluent. Herb Chambers might have more money than Youk and Markie combined, because there is a Herb Chambers dealer every five blocks in Massachusetts. Actually he definitely has more money than Youk and Markie, because judging on the Biz's current dental condition I'm guessing he blew most of his money in the 90's. Despite the discrepancy in income between these three guys, they made a pretty enjoyable commercial.
P.S. Biz Markie is riding this one hit wonder of a song into the depths of hell. The fact that he is still singing that song in a commercial in 2011 is nothing short of amazing.


text:
When A&K Painting Company fills new employee positions, we seek highly motivated and qualified professionals to join our team. As an official hiring period is established, we advertise open positions, request and review applications, and schedule interviews. Request an application by emailing email@example.com or call the office at 704-521-8003.
A&K Painting is a drug-free workplace and EOE, Equal Opportunity Employer.
Sub-Contracting Affiliates
On some project types, A&K Painting Company occasionally requires the services of sub-contracting affiliates. Contracting with qualified and successful affiliates is a positive addition to our company that provides additional project throughput for our clients.
A&K only works with companies who become A&K Certified Sub-Contractors. Additionally, we only work with the very best sub-contracting affiliates who are dedicated to their trade and operate a professional business. Teaming up with these great companies makes A&K Painting a stronger company that stays focused on our client's needs.
- You must qualify and become an A&K Certified Sub-Contracting Affiliate
- Workers Compensation Insurance and General Liability Insurance
- Company Safety Policy, Lift Certification, OSHA 10 Hour, CPR & First Aid Certifications
- Dress Code
- Management Systems and Daily progress report
- Continued Training & Industry Education Classes
If your company is interested in becoming a Sub-Contracting Affiliate for A&K Painting
please contact us to receive and complete our pre-qualification questionnaire.
A&K Painting Company is a total service commercial and industrial painting contractor with headquarters located in Charlotte, NC.
We make our client's projects more successful and safe. We're known for delivering exceptional customer service, award-winning projects and safety management. We provide service throughout the east coast of the United States.
A relationship you can trust…
Call 855-812-8003 to speak with a representative
Main Office Number 704-521-8003
9929 John Price Road Charlotte, NC 28273
Mail: PO Box 7684 Charlotte, NC 28241


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What you need to know:
* The Panthers split its opening day, defeating Mercer but falling to host No. 21 Florida State.
* Freshman Kevin Huynh earned his first collegiate win in dual play, while Sebastian Acuna earned his first clinch of the season.
* GSU will conclude the tournament tomorrow against North Florida at 2:30 p.m.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- The Georgia State men's tennis team split the first of the FSU Spring Invite, defeating Mercer and falling to No. 21 Florida State.
The Panthers are now 1-1 after the first day of dual play, with one match left in the tournament.
The team opened the tournament strong, sweeping Mercer in straight sets. Freshman Kevin Huynh earned his first collegiate singles win in dual play, defeating Ruben Vanoppen 6-1, 6-1. Quentin Coulaud put the Panthers up 2-0, defeating Oliver Stuart 6-1, 6-3 at the No. 2 position.
Giles Hussey put GSU within one, earning a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Fernando Guardia. Sebastian Acuna put the match away, earning his first clinch of the season with a 6-1, 7-5 win over Stathis Tsirandis.
Doubles matches were not played due to the sweep.
Georgia State advanced to the semifinals of the tournament with the win over Mercer, facing host No. 21 Florida State. The Panthers dropped the doubles point in the third set, with No. 60 Hussey and Huynh earning a 6-3 victory over Jose Garcia and Lucas Poullain in the only doubles win for GSU.
In singles play, Jack MacFarlane fell 6-1, 6-1 to Poullain and Andrei Andrukhou was defeated 6-3, 6-1 at the No. 1 position. Coulaud fell 6-4, 6-4 to Guy Iradukunda in the match-clinching set.
The Panthers will play for third place tomorrow against North Florida, with first serve at 2:30 p.m.
"Overall I'm proud of the team and the way they competed against a talented FSU team," head coach Jonathan Wolff said. "We certainly had chances to snag the doubles point after a great win from Kevin and Giles against the No. 8 ranked team in the nation, but we came up just short. We fought hard until the end of a very long day and it's these kinds of matches when we need to physically push through it, but we have another great opportunity tomorrow against another gritty team in North Florida."
Follow along with Georgia State on Twitter (@GSUMTennis) for the latest news and updates.
Mercer Results
1. Sam Philp (MU) vs. Andrei Duarte (GSU) no result
2. Quentin Coulaud (GSU) def. Oliver Stuart (MU) 6-1, 6-3
3. Nicolas Guillon (MU) vs. Jack MacFarlane (GSU) no result
4. Sebastian Acuna (GSU) def. Stathis Tsiranidis (MU) 6-1, 7-5
5. Giles Hussey (GSU) def. Fernando Guardia (MU) 6-4, 6-3
6. Kevin Huynh (GSU) def. Ruben Vanoppen (MU) 6-1, 6-1
Florida State Results
1. Aziz Dougaz (FS) def. Andrei Andrukhou (GSU) 6-3, 6-1
2. Guy Iradukunda (FS) def. Quentin Coulaud (GSU) 6-4, 6-2
3. Lucas Poullain (FS) def. Jack MacFarlane (GSU) 6-1, 6-1
4. Jose Gracia (FS) vs. Sebastian Acuna (GSU) 7-5, 1-2, unfinished
5. Chase Wood (FS) vs. Giles Hussey (GSU) 6-2, 5-1, unfinished
6. Rana Roop Bhullar (FS) vs. Kevin Huynh (GSU) 6-7 (9-11), 1-0, unfinished
1. Aziz Dougaz/Guy Iradukunda (FS) def. Andrei Andrukhou/Quentin Coulaud (GSU) 6-4
2. Giles Hussey/Kevin Huynh (GSU) def. Jose Gracia/Lucas Poullain (FS) 6-3
3. Terrance Whitehurst/Terrell Whitehurst (FS) def. Sebastian Acuna/Jack MacFarlane (GSU) 6-3


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With a trip of only 20 minutes on the Canada Line, going from Broadway/City Hall station to Lansdowne Mall in Richmond is easy! So why not get out there and explore by train (less road rage guaranteed)!
One stop you will enjoy is the Mongolian Hot Pot Restaurant on the East side of Lansdowne Mall (just walk in and signs will guide you). As you enter the restaurant, the banner states "Healthy, Herbal soup", interesting, I thought!
This was my first "hot-pot" experience and it surely will not be the last! We sat down at a table with a table top element in the middle and were given a list of ingredients to check off and hand in. First, you choose the type of broth you would like to have as your soup base. You can do one pot of one type or you can do half one broth in a divided pot and half another broth. This is what we did. We chose the vegetarian mushroom broth and the chef special spicy broth. To eat we chose: the fatty beef slices (which comes on a plate with each piece folded in half); the vegetable combo – bok choy and tong ho (a chinese leafy veg similar in taste to cilantro); fish and shrimp balls (the fish were my favourite); pork and shrimp dumplings (house made and delicious) and pork and chive wonton (also house made).
Of course, you can choose to add many other ingredients, such as: beef tripe, mutton, tofu, potato, cabbage, oyster mushrooms, duck feet (or web as they call it), vermicelli, chicken, tilapia fillet slices (having this next time), geoduck (type of clam), scallops or squid. Just to name a few.
So, once our pot of broths was boiling, we started dropping the ingredients in. The meat took about 45 seconds (if that), and everything else not long at all. We looked around and couldn't really see any 'rules' or 'etiquette' at the table, so just did our thing. The spicy broth was really good with the meat, however, I swear there was a pound of chopped red chillies in it! We ended up having to fish all the chillies out, as it got spicier as it cooked and then all the other flavours were lost in the heat! Once an ingredient was cooked, we used the ladle to fill our soup bowls and enjoy, until the next item was ready.
You can order sauces for dipping, we had peanut, a type of hoi sin and soya sauce. And to accompany this tasty hot-pot dinner, chinese tea is served or you can order the plum juice – which apparently is healthy and cleanses the palate (it tasted like over sweetened iced tea to me, but was really good).
It's the chinese version of fondue, broth instead of oil and a very social way to have dinner. I highly recommend you give it a shot, it's really good!
Mongolian Hot Pot Restaurant at Lansdowne Mall in Richmond
no website


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This Beautiful Mercedes 190SL was originally build in 1959 and originally delivered in Germany. This 190SL is in very good shape. Since it was professionally restored a number of years ago this is certainly a beautiful and more then presentable driver.
Of course this roadster shows no rust on body or undercarriage. The 1897 cc 4 cylinder engine runs strong and smooth. We have driven the car extensively and it handles beautiful. This Mercedes 190SL has perfect paint , good chrome and a full leather red interior. which feels like new.
This wonderful 190SL currently has a German registration.
In short an beautiful and honest driver ready for the summer.
Call 0031623679846 for more information on this iconic Roadster.
We ship to any location in the world.
Wir sprechen Deutsch, We speak English, Nous parlons Français, Wij spreken Nederlands.
Montag - Freitag: 09.00 - 18.00 Uhr
Samstag: 10.00 - 17.00 Uhr
*Nach Vereinbarung


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Peggy Simpson
Peggy Simpson worked 17 years for the Associated Press, in Texas and Washington, D.C. and covered economics and politics for the Hearst Newspapers. Simpson also served as Washington bureau chief for Ms. magazine and reported on Eastern Europe's transition from communism to a Democratic market economy, as a freelancer during the 1990s. She has taught at Indiana University, George Washington University and at the American Studies Center at Warsaw University. She currently is a freelance writer in Washington.


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Need the answers to those questions? Look no further. A fanlisting is a way of bringing
together all the fans of something (or, in this case, someone)... at least the fans
that are on the Net. :o) The idea of fanlistings was created by Janine, who runs
The Fanlistings, of which this site is a part of. This fanlisting is for Alexis Denisof, the amazing actor who portrays
Wesley Wyndham-Pryce on "Angel". If you've ever been a fan of any of Alexis' work (and that
includes non-Angel stuff!), I encourage you to read the rules and then
join us!
If you'd like to learn more about Alexis before joining, please check out the
extras section for links to other sites and Alexis' filmography.


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Introductionwhile playing with Docker and the Named Pipe trick, I wanted to give a more "*nix" feeling of Craig Wilhite volume mounting example:
$ docker run -v C:/Users/crwilhit.REDMOND/tmp/ microsoft/nanoserver cmd.exeThere's nothing wrong with this command, but the "scope" is WSL shell, and while using the docker nix command, the path of the volume is the windows one.
There should be a better way, no?
WSLENV to save the dayLuckily, the WSL team did already implement a very nice feature, WSLENV, and a linux command, wslpath that will help translating the Windows path.
Now it would be up to you to either create, in Windows, an environment variable and use it.
Here is the same example, using LCOW (because why not), for mounting volumes in a "linux way":
$ docker run --platform=linux -it -v $DOCKERVOL/mydir:/sharedvol ubuntu bashor use the wslpath command:
$ docker run --platform=linux -it -v `wslpath -w /mnt/c/DockerVolumes/mydir`:/sharedvol ubuntu bash
Mixing all and having funPlaying with the paths, is nice, but it's a tweet from the legendary Scott Hanselman that triggered an idea even crazier: try the same with windows commands in WSL shell.
First of all, we need to understand what I call the "scope" between a command and the shell used to run it.
In Scott's example, he's piping a value from a windows command (dir) to a bash one (grep).
The pipe, is a Shell function, not related to the command itself.
So with that in mind, here is the example from before but with docker.exe from WSL:
$ docker.exe run --platform=linux -it -v `wslpath -w /mnt/c/DockerVolumes/mydir`:/sharedvol ubuntu bash"As we are in WSL scope, the command substitution will be interpreted successfully and then the windows command will run thanks to the interopability.
The end command would be something like:
$ docker.exe run --platform=linux -it -v C:\DockerVolumes\mydir:/sharedvol ubuntu bash
This means that you will be able to use bash variables with Windows commands too.
RestrictionsWith all that said, there's still some restrictions that really need to be known:
- The directories have to be in the Windows visible FS. Anything in /mnt/<drive letter>/... is OK
- If you didn't mounted your WSL home then trying to use wslpath on / or /home will simply fail
See Craig's notes on his blog.
The more WSL is evolving, the more I see no boundaries in Interop and I'm really looking forward to the first linux and/or windows applications that would use this capability natively.
Last but not least, Interop is really a state of mind. If you can look beyond the "walls" separating both worlds and instead embrace the fact that water and oil can mix, believe me when I tell you that the fun is infinite.
Ok, and a weird mind can help having crazy ideas...
>>> Nunix Out <<<


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My Amazon author page!!!!
There has to be a paradigm – somehow a magical equation that tells you in the end you need to cut the time people wait on the phone before they talk to a human being. Yesterday I attempted to close my eBay account.
Waiting on the phone for more than 25 minutes (your projected hold time 6 minutes).
Find out that I can't close the account yet. So I guess after more than 10 years on eBay I am just punting. I will keep trying to close the account but I will no longer consider, do business with or use eBay.
In the end I was probably meaner to the customer service representative that is just doing their job so for that I do feel bad. It is a hard job to be on the phone and deal with the problems and issues people have with a product or company.
The quality of interactions both with eBay and eBay customers has gone downhill in the past five years. Each year getting more than incrementally worse. There are so many fraudulent buyers on the service now it is far too risky to sell on eBay.
So I am no longer using, considering or well even caring about eBay.
The issue comes about with the new model they have. I posted a listing (I have a 100% customer satisfaction rating on more than 900 transactions). The person won the auction and once they got the item they started negotiating. Rather than reading the original post which was the contract they agreed to, they declared the item was incomplete. The auction specifically said there are none of the original adds on included with the auction. eBay of course in their infinite wisdom found in favor of the buyer.
- Problem 1: Buyer didn't read the original eBay listing.
- Problem 2: I suspect in the end eBay can't read. How can you find for a buyer when the auction say's no slide trays included. The buyer opens a case saying the slide trays were missing.
- Problem 3: This isn't the first time this has happened. In fact it happens with every auction now. People win and then say I didn't get x. But the auction listing specifically says "x is not included."
In the end I suspect there is a lesson here. I am going to keep digging until it is revealed.
Scott Andersen
IASA Fellow.


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BERLIN (Reuters) – Chancellor Angela Merkel won a fourth term in office on Sunday but will have to build an uneasy coalition to form a German government after her conservatives haemorrhaged support in the face of a surge by the far-right.
The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) stunned the establishment by winning 13.1 percent of the vote, projected results showed, a result that will bring a far-right party into parliament for the first time in more than half a century.
Merkel's conservative bloc emerged as the largest parliamentary party but, with just 33.2 percent of the vote, saw its support slump to the lowest since 1949 – the first time national elections were held in post-war Germany.
Her main Social Democrat rivals also received their worst result since the 1940s — just 20.8 percent — after nearly half of voters repudiated the two parties that have dominated Germany since World War Two.
With parliament now fragmented, Merkel appears likely to cobble together a tricky three-way coalition with a pro-business group and the Greens.
Merkel said the success of the far right was a test for Germans. It was important to listen to the concerns of their voters and win them back.
"Of course we had hoped for a slightly better result. But we mustn't forget that we have just completed an extraordinarily challenging legislative period, so I am happy that we reached the strategic goals of our election campaign," Merkel said.
"We are the strongest party, we have the mandate to build the next government – and there cannot be a coalition government built against us," Merkel added.
The election was fought on the tense backdrop of surging support for far left and far right parties across Europe.
Germany in particular is coping with the arrival of more than 1 million refugees and other new migrants, with tension with Russia since Moscow's incursions into Ukraine, and with doubt about Europe's future since Britain voted to quit the EU.
After shock election results last year, from the Brexit vote to the election of U.S. President Donald Trump, leaders of Europe's establishment have looked to Merkel to rally the liberal Western order.
But after acting as an anchor of stability in Europe and beyond, she now faces an unstable situation at home as she must now form a coalition, an arduous process that could take months…. see more
source: reuters.com


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We have just returned after a relaxing weekend away to torrentially rainy Christchurch and the weak winter sunshine and blue skies of only a day ago seem long past. Why is it that you can spend such a long time dreaming and scheming about when/where you'd like to go on holiday and then when you get there, it's over in a flash and by the end, it seems like years have past since that sunny afternoon when you felt all your worries were a million miles away? Yes, you're right. I am suffering from the end of holiday blues. Unaided by the fact our weekend was cut short by torrents of rain that haven't stopped for the last 24 hours.
But, in dictacting our adventures to you here on this page, I will re-live them again and turn my eyes away from grey skies for a moment or two.
After I shut up shop on Friday, we drove 1 hour 45 minutes North of the city to a place called Hanmer, famous for its natural hot springs and mountain vistas. Unfortunately, we drove after nightfall and could only sense how magnificent the views would have been in daylight from the huge black silhouettes of mountains either side of us.
After a quick wander down to the town centre to scout around for some brunch, we confirmed that we were still in Hanmer and not infact surrounded by the Swiss (shame). As usual when eating out in NZ, you're very rarely disappointed when it comes to the presentation of your food. My Eggs Benedict was proof of this, as you can see!
Following our feed, we crossed the road from the deli to the springs resort for a couple of hours of slowly dissolving ourselves in very hot water. The thermal pools range in temperature from a supposedly cool 36 degrees to a scorching 43. We paced ourselves; starting with the 'cool' rock pools and gradually building up to the hottest smelly sulphur pools. After lots of enduring Mr Bear complaining he was bored and didn't understand what you were supposed to do in a hot spring (the concept of relaxation is a bit difficult for him, I have discovered) and a fair amount of dehydration, we decided to seek out a miniature golf course (golf is very popular in the area but mini golf is fun). A round of putting at 'A-Maze-N-Golf' later and we were back in the town looking for food again.
Sunday morning had supposedly been set aside for a casual winter walk and a lot of photo taking, but since the rain started at around 1am that morning, and wasn't showing any signs of letting up, we realised there was nothing for it and we would just have to drive back home. Disappointing, but not a decision we regret as we were able to spend the afternoon relaxing at home and not getting soggy and lost on an alpine track surrounded by mist. Win.
To see all our photos from the trip (don't worry, there aren't many!) have a look here.


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Blooming Where We are Planted
As the snow is starting to leave in Alberta, Canada I see the beginnings of spring starting to come alive. I have been expecting the warm weather, and thinking about the flowers I hope to grow. I learned this week there are over 230,000 to 270,000 species of flowering plants according to David Bramwell (2002), each one beautiful and special in its own way. Do you know how special you are?
For years, I was desperately trying to bloom where I was planted to gain love and acceptance from others. In my world circumstances were never as they might have appeared, I was afraid if people saw the real me, they would not love or accept me. I hide behind a mask, which I called a smile, and I learned to become whatever I thought other people wanted me to be. You know, Perfect Mask—Perfect Life
Although I had a husband and family who loved me, my concept of love was flawed. I thought it had to be earned: If you were good, drove the right car, had the right friends, or joined the right country club, you were loved. If you did not have all those things, or were not in the right social group, you were not loved. I thought love and acceptance could be given and taken at a moment's notice.
Do you step into the arena of life everyday wearing masks, striving for the right appearance and performing your best for love, acceptance, and approval? I have news for you.
God sees us without the masks and thinks we are beautiful, he loves and accepts us just the way we are, no conditions
Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can't even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don't fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? …If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? Luke 12: 25-28, the Message-
His love is forever, unchanging, and constant, it is unconditional!
Thank you for dropping by and sharing your time with me.
I would love to hear from you. Have a great week!
Lovingly, Karan
Related article:**All photos are Copyrighted © By Little Sister Snapshots, California
The Friends We Love
When I was little, I used to believe in the concept of one best friend, and then I started to become a woman. And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up, God would show you the best in many friends.
One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man. Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom. Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, "Let's cry together," another, "Let's fight together," another, "Let's walk away together."
One friend will meet your spiritual need, another your shoe fetish, another your love for movies, another will be with you in your season of confusion, another will be your clarifier, another the wind beneath your wings.
But whatever their assignment in your life, on whatever the occasion, on whatever the day, or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back, or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself … those are your best friends.
It may all be wrapped up in one woman, but for many, it's wrapped up in several… one from 7th grade, one from high school, several from the college years, a couple from old jobs, on some days your mother, on some days your neighbor, on others, your sisters, and on some days, your daughters.
So whether they've been there 20 minutes or 20 years, you are blessed. God has placed these women in your life to love, encourage and help you make a difference. ~ Author unknown
The Bible says: This is how we know what love is, Jesus Christ laid down his life for us, greater love hath no man than this that a man lays down his friends.
Where would we be without those dear sisters we call Girlfriends. The ones we laugh with, cry with, and shop with. Our mother's, sisters and friends who encourage, teach, and help us to become better women.
When I hit a wall, I became overwhelmed, and start looking at all the circumstances and stress in my life, I forgot about all the good things. My cup becomes half-empty, instead of full. As I had time to meditate and look back, I realized how God has led me with His love and faithfulness over the years. Jesus Christ, is my dearest friend, I could not imagine life without his peace, love and protection. He is all I need, He enough.
Lovingly, Karan
The August Hustle – Back to School
August has always been a stressful month for me. I am rushing to finish up all the loose ends before fall arrives. It is also an expensive month, with all the costs of getting the kids ready for school. New clothes, backpacks, supplies, and trying to get an extra weekend away before those school days, sports, and music lessons take over my life.
When my children were younger, I could take them to the store and buy their school supplies and clothes, and they were thrilled. However when they became teenagers, each one had their own distinctive fashion style. One of my daughters decided she didn't want to wear Levi's anymore; she wanted designer labeled jeans like everyone else. My husband, Lyle, wasn't sure what designer was in, but he thought surely as long as it had a name on it, it would work.
While visiting a western-wear store, he found a sale on designer jeans: "Kenny Rogers" with the name and face embroidered on the back pocket. Wow, he thought he had hit the jackpot and bought two pair. He couldn't wait to get home and show off his find.
I had a hard time keeping a straight face when he gave those "Designer Jeans" to our daughter. They say, "A picture is worth a 1000 words." I wish I had that picture. She didn't have the same enthusiasm that my husband had for those jeans, and she said, "I'm not wearing a picture of Kenny Rogers embroidered on my butt." Who knew?
She never did wear those jeans, and two years later we packed them up and gave them away.
When I think back, I just laugh out loud thinking about those "Kenny Rogers" jeans. To be honest, I probably wouldn't have worn them either.
My husband thought he was giving her a greatest gift, but she didn't see those jeans as wonderful. How often I do the same with God. When he doesn't give me what I want, or my struggles overwhelm me, I begin to doubt his love and promises.
Jeremiah 29: 11-14 states, 'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen.
My plans are often complicated and stressful, I tend to over research and worry about every detail. It is such a relief to know that God has a plan for my life, and he cares about the details too. I am learning to trust in His plans and promises for my life, confidently embracing the hope and future he has planned for me.©
Lovingly, Karan
Do you find it hard to trust God in the in the hard times of your life?
What time of the year do you find the most stressful for you?
Trauma in the dressing room!
My self-image has always been a little distorted, so shopping for a bathing suit is a traumatic experience for me. I have spent extended lengths of times in the "chamber of horrors" (the fitting room) only to leave in tears, because I could not find anything that looked right. I would leave wishing I was taller, thinner, had a flatter stomach and no muffin top around my waist.
Occasionally I even toyed with the idea of a major overhaul, from top to bottom. You know the kind, where they pull everything up, starting at the knees. (Somehow the image of my navel in the middle of my forehead, has kept me taking the last step)
Do I put more emphases on what others think of me, instead of caring how God sees me? I think God must have a sense of humor, after all he made us.
Have you ever stood naked in front of a mirror and quoted Psalm 139: 14a, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Personally, I have not been able to get past the fearful!
Our confidence comes from knowing that God made us in his image, he knew what we would look like before we were ever born and loved us anyway.
The Bible says:
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Psalm 139: 13-16a
When he looks at us we are perfect in his eyes, he thinks each one is of us is unique and special. ©
Lovingly, Karan
When you step into the dressing room does your self-image take a nose dive? Would you rather avoid dressing rooms? I would love to hear your comments.
Related articles
- You Are Not A Number To God! (aviesplace.wordpress.com)
- How well does God know you? (myviewandopinion.wordpress.com)
- You are unique! (ilifejourney.wordpress.com)
I Need A Vacation Away From My Vacation!
Every year when summer arrives I tell myself that this is the summer I am going to take it easy, relax and take time to smell the roses. However, when the summer ends, I need a vacation away from my vacation. I have on occasion toyed with the idea of booking a room at the retirement lodge for a month to recuperate: there I could sit uninterrupted in my rocking chair singing,"Blessed Quietness." When your life feels out of control, have you ever felt like running away?
My life has been a roller coaster for the last two month, and when my to-do list hits overflow, I become overwhelmed. At this point, I feel guilty and decide not to look at my list any more. (No, I'm not feeling better yet) Throwing the to-do list away now becomes a real option. I could start a new list, and forget how far behind I am.
The problem is, I often cannot face failure of rejection. I would rather not try than risk failure. I want to see the big picture and know success is certain. However, nothing in life has guarantees. When financial prospects are bleak, job markets are uncertain, and health issues persist, it is easy to become overwhelmed with life. Sometimes, I wish God would send me an e-mail, or memo, as a quick reminder that he is still in control. Why is it so easy to trust God for other people's needs, but when it comes to our own needs we don't have much faith? Isn't God enough to take care of all our needs, big and small?
Psalm 46:1-2 says,"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. so we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. He is my strength, and light in a troubled world, I will not fear?
Father, I choose your strength, love and promise, I will not fear as long as you walk with me lighting my way. I choose to trust you.
Lovingly, Karan
"Laughter is an instant Vacation." ~ Milton Berle


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This is one of the best looking Father's Day crafts I've seen. Recycle card board, pasta, craft jewels, and lots of gold paint into a beautiful Father's Day Trophy craft. Dad will love this and keep it forever. Go to the great site, Smart Class for the picture tutorial.
Smart Class