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My friends, I have had a mini disaster. So far, I have been really organised with this whole Americamp experience until last night. I double checked the flights since it's only 12 days until I leave… and they were wrong. I was stunned, I could not believe what my eyes were looking at on the screen and panicked for a while before phoning every number I could to get this rectified.
Today I await the go ahead from the Assistant camp director to change flights with another consultant (since mine left the company shortly after booking my flights.) I mean, who says that they are going to book you into the right airport and then book you into a completely different one with the same name…
I have to say, this has been slightly more stressful than I would have liked it to be, but everything will work out fine in the end. I hope.
I just keep thinking to myself that it is all part of the experience and what happens, happens and I'll just have to take everything in my stride. ~*


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- One's Gotta Go: NBA Hoops & Duke VS UNC Edition
- Panthers Running Backs Coach Jim Skipper Retires
- Joel Berry On Duke VS UNC Environment: "It's The Best Feeling In The World"
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- Doug Rice On The Daytona 500: "I Thought It Was A Very Entertaining Race..."
- Chip Patterson On North Carolina Vs. Duke: " If North Carolina Wins They Have To Get Hot From Behind The Arc..."
- Tom Dundon On A Potential AAF Relationship With The NFL: "If They See Value In Us It Would Make Sense To Exploit That..."
- ProwlCast: Would You Sign Colin Kaepernick To The Panthers?
- Pre-'93 NFL pension benefits group receives $100K donation
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- Obama joined by Curry to tell minority boys 'you matter'
- Stricker appointed US captain for Ryder Cup in home state
- Federer to play Madrid Open after 2-year absence
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- Former Dodgers great Don Newcombe dies at 92
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- Josi scores 2 in 3rd period, Predators beat Stars 5-3
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Charlotte, NC VIEW FULL FORECAST
Luke Kuechly: "We Need to Get The Ball More In 2018"
Garcia & Bailey
February 03, 2018 - 7:19 pm
Panthers LB joins Garcia and Bailey on Radio Row in Minneapolis...
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subset: commoncrawl


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Poly Means Many: polyamory and cheating
There are many aspects to polyamory, but sometimes you just have to go back to the basics. Is it possible to cheat in a polyamorous relationship, and if it is what does that look like? I've lost count of the number of times people have asked me if it is possible to cheat in a polyamorous relationship, or have thought that my polyamorous relationship is the same as cheating.
After the Ashley Madison data leak the spot light is on marriage, cheating, and mistresses. These are all ways to have more than one relationship, that fall under the heading of cheating. But what does it look like to have more than one relationship, and for that to be not cheating? What does it look like to cheat when you are in relationships with more than one person?
In my relationships and my experience, the definition of cheating is to do something outside the agreed parameters. My family is, to all intents and purposes, a closed group. This means that, within the four of us, there are no relationship restrictions. However, if one of us wishes to start a new relationship, they need to discuss that with the other three, and get all of their agreement.
Cheating is therefore defined as going outside our rules. That would mean having sexual contact or starting a relationship with someone without the agreement or knowledge of the family. That doesn't mean that new sexual and romantic relationships are not possible. We have, in fact, recently recently added a new relationship to our family, someone I am immensely proud to be able to call a metamour.
The fundamental difference between monogamous and polyamorous relationships is usually the variety of shapes and situations that are possible in a polyamorous relationship. There can be a very small or very large number of people involved. There can be very strict rules and boundaries, or things might be very relaxed. Regardless of the agreed structures, cheating in these circumstances is any action which breaks those agreed rules, whatever they are. By comparison, monogamous relationships are very simple. The defining feature of a monogamous relationship is that you have one sexual and romantic partner.
Defining what is cheating in a polyamorous relationship can be more difficult, but it is still very possible.
Ultimately, it is our responsibility as sexual and romantic partners to be aware of the responsibilities we have to those we are in relationship with. Being faithful to the rules that we have agreed to is the essential foundation to healthy and nourishing relationships, whether monogamous or polyamorous.


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Thinking of a checkerboard I wanted to do something similar with quasiperiodic tilings.
The checkerboard is a square grid with two colors. A rotation by 90 degrees around a corner exchanges the colors, but else the board remains the same. The four-fold rotational symmetry is thus a twofold color symmetry. Similarly, we can have a twofold color symmetry for the quasiperiodic tiling. A rotation by 45 degrees then exchanges the color of the tiles. Thus we have to use two distinct colors for the squares and two distinct colors for the rhombs. The orientation of the tiles determines their color.
The result depends strongly on the colors we choose. An example:
Using greys, we get rather different pictures if we put strong contrast on the squares:
or on the rhombs:


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Monthly Archives: September 2016
Selling Your Business: Know What Expensive Errors Can Cost You
Owning a company can be satisfying. There can come a time, though, that you'd like to move on to other things. When selling your business, you need to know what mistakes to avoid for an efficient and profitable transaction.
Bypassing the Broker – Having the right representative to sell your business is crucial for a speedy and efficient transfer of ownership, says Utah Business Consultants. Choosing a broker that has a trustworthy reputation, long-standing experience and an extensive network of contacts is a better option for you especially if you don't have the proper licenses and documents to properly process the sale of your own business.
Pricing Without Proper Basis – Expect each buyer to ask you how you came up with your asking price and you should be willing explain and justify it properly. Though there are businesses that sell at a loss, the buyer still has a right to know why this is so. After all, they don't want to be saddled with a white elephant for a business; nor would they would choose to run an overpriced business.
Selling To Early (Or Too Late) – In the corporate world, timing is important in making the right decisions. Though some would say "I'm selling my business because it isn't doing well anymore" and find that a justified reason; you should actually do the opposite. If you plan to sell your business at a profit, sell when you're hot. It would be easier to find eager buyers and you'd not need to haggle too much with your asking price.
Picking the Wrong Buyer – Selling to just anyone without proper evaluation would easily put your company into bankruptcy. Now, unless you don't care about the state of your brainchild after you're gone, then do sell to the highest bidder. But don't mourn your company being dissolved since you didn't bother to screen your buyer properly.
When selling a company, learning from your mistakes can cost you dearly. Rule of thumb: When in doubt, don't. Think things through and ask for advice before you decide. Otherwise, you might be forced to pay the consequences.
Refresh Your Senses: Get a Fresh Perspective by Trying Something New
When you've lived in San Diego for a long time, you may find yourself settling into a routine. Routines promote a sense of stability, allowing daily activities to flow smoothly. Getting too comfortable with it, however, can become limiting.
What Can You Do?
Small changes can make a big difference. Try a different coffee blend at your favorite café or visit a different café. Take a walk around a part of your neighborhood that you've not explored before. Drive or walk a different route on your way to or from work.
See the Sights
Ready for a bigger change? Take the weekend off and tour different parts of the city. Think like a tourist and view things with a different outlook. San Diego has many treasures for residents and visitors alike to discover. Some neighborhoods even have hidden art pieces and installation art scattered all over. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes and be observant.
Take a Trip
Do you prefer something more active? San Diego offers a variety of hiking sites and trails suited for both walking and biking. You can also try booking a fishing charter. Expert charter guides like Fine Runner Sport Fishing Charters can take you to the best areas for fishing or introduce you to the sport if you are new to it.
Be One with Nature
The San Diego Zoo is not the only place to commune with wildlife. Aside from hiking trails, there are also bird watching trails and several bird watching sites in the city. Or simply pay visit to one of the local parks and spend the morning or an afternoon just relaxing and breathing in the fresh air.
Just Relax
If none of the options above are your thing, you can try some new activities right at home. Learn to paint or do calligraphy. Do some yoga or meditate. Your new activity need not be something radically different from what you are used to. As long as you try to do something outside your routine once in a while, it can be enough to give you a fresh perspective to your regular activities.
Not Just Random CCTVs: What Exactly is a Reliable CCTV
Unless you are financially capable of hiring security personnel, installing CCTV cameras could be the most cost effective option when it comes to securing your property. To tighten security, some people and organisations do both. If you need surveillance cameras to monitor your property, do not settle for substandard products or work with a random installer you just found on the Web.
It pays to have powerful and reliable CCTV cameras in your home. But how can you know if the security products on offer are the best ones you can find?
The Brand Matters
If you think any type of surveillance camera can do the trick, you are not taking your home security that seriously. It is always better to install branded CCTVs, as they have proven their effectiveness and established their reputation in the industry. You can trust these devices to offer optimum performance, durability and reliability – qualities you can hardly get from substandard products. Of course, with better quality comes extra cost, but the benefits are worth every dollar.
Installation Makes a Difference
There are technical requirements when it comes to assembling and installing CCTV cameras. The process involves choosing the best spots and assessing the security needs of the property. You want to make sure the cameras are in the right places or position. To ensure quality work and maximum benefits, allow a registered security solutions provider to complete the installation job for you.
Innovative Features and Capabilities Have Many Advantages
When buying CCTV cameras, you must look beyond the aesthetics. The features, functionalities and capabilities set a particular device from the rest and allow you to get the best solution for residential crime prevention. As much as possible, choose high-resolution cameras that work day and night, function as DRV or NVR recorders, and allow remote view via computer or smartphone.
Security is a serious matter, which is why you must install only the best devices on the market. Investing in powerful, innovative and reliable security devices is a smart move for home and business owners.
How to Make Your Garage Door and Home More Secure
Although homes have a separate main door, a lot of people are using their garages as their main entry and exit point. This is fairly common since it is more convenient for people to ride their cars out of the garage.
However, people who usually do this should keep in mind to think about the security involved in using the garage as their main method for entering and exiting their homes. Here are some ways to add security to your garage door and home:
Make sure normal entry doors are locked. If you have an attached garage and use it as your main entry and exit point, you must make sure to lock your home's main door, backyard door, and the interior door leading from the garage into your home before riding your car out of your garage.
Observe the doors before leaving.
Make it a habit to check to see if your garage doors are completely shut before you drive away from your home. Often times, thieves would observe the way you leave your home and could easily sneak in if you drove away while the garage door is still closing.
Use garage door locks at night.
There are a lot of innovative thieves that can open garage doors by hacking codes or using other methods. One way to add security to your garage is by installing a deadbolt lock or a simple interior slide lock. These types of locks will physically prevent the garage doors from opening either due to a malfunction or by a hacked remote door opener. For a choice of quality garage door locks, you can check out any commercial garage door service provider in Salt Lake City.
Illuminate your garage, even at night.
An effective deterrent for burglars entering a home is if they think that somebody is still inside. Turning the lights on in your garage or installing motion sensitive lights will more than likely scare a would-be burglar from entering your garage.
Remember that making a habit of checking the locks on your door and leaving lights on during the night will significantly add security to your garage door and your home.
Set in Stone: The Art of Engraving
Today, do you not agree that we have seen enough of conceptualism in art? When was the last time a person from outside the art scene expressed admiration for a work that can stand alone without the artist explaining the rationale behind the creation?
For starters, conceptualism supports artworks that value the idea more than the aesthetics and craft involved. This movement can, more or less, declare an upturned toilet as art.
Engraving as an Art Form
Engraving, which may come off as trivial to art critiques, is a method for creating as well. While it can manifest itself in the texture of paintings, it is much more apparent in sculptures. As a technique, it can utilise a variety of tools. Artists are free to choose their wares, and the unorthodox can seek inspiration from suppliers of stone cutting tools such as stonegatetooling.com. This is where you can combine the ideals of conceptualism with realist and practical art.
Spherical burrs, electroplated blades and engraving tips are a few tools one could toy around with in practising engraving techniques.
Carving into Metal
Ken Burklow, a Charlottesville craftsman, has been in the engraving business for 15 years. He cuts symbols of meaning into stone, gold, silver and metal.
Burklow began in 1974, as a self-taught engraver in the jewellery trade. He started out with an engraving block, a few dull tools and a piece of metal. Eventually, he progressed to hammering a hardened steel tool, or a burin for years on end before becoming a master of his art.
His designs have appeared in rare firearms and family heirlooms.
Engraved in History
Whilst in Scotland, George Currie, an amateur archaeologist, has just discovered hundreds of prehistoric rock engravings. Literally, this sets the art of engraving in stone, as a proof of its historical existence. He has unearthed 670 Neolithic and Bronze Age pieces of carvings in a total of 15 years.
These surviving interests, such as Currie's sojourns, attest to how the art of engraving is still alive. From typographic steel cutting to metal engraving; there are masterpieces that will continue to resurface — further cementing how it has embedded itself into our culture.
3 Stunning Pool Landscaping Ideas That Will Add Value to Your Home
Creating a beautiful pool space in your backyard is a great investment. As a matter of fact, it can raise the value of your home. But how will you start? Is it enough to install a plunge pool or a spa pool to elevate the look of your backyard? Do you have to go far and renovate your whole backyard?
Read on to know some of the stunning pool landscaping ideas that can inspire you.
Backyard Retreat
Just by looking at a serene, peaceful pool landscape design, you'll feel relaxed. This design usually includes an irregular-shaped pool surrounded by comfy lounge chairs, according to pool landscapers in Tauranga. It'll also help if you include natural elements, such as boulders and stones, to match the pool's relaxing blue coloured water.
Poolside Fire
Whether you have a spa pool or a large pool, a fire pit is always a great addition to your pool landscape. Not only that the fire pit will add personality to your backyard, but it'll also be an important element during colder months. There is nothing like hanging out in the poolside on a cold night with a warm fire and a gorgeous pool view.
Elegant Look
With an elegant-looking pool landscape, you can blow away anyone who will walk in your backyard. The right combination of waterfall elements and dramatic lighting is the key to achieving this look. Adding sleek poolside furniture would be a great help as well. It's hard to nail this look, but you can always ask professional landscape designers and builders to help you.
It doesn't matter whether you have a plunge pool or a huge in-ground pool, as long as you have a beautiful pool landscape, your backyard can be stunning. In turn, your home will be much more valuable than before.
What You Have to Do When Dealing with Binge Eating Disorder
There are some people who love to eat, and then there are those who just can't seem to control the urge to overeat. The latter is, oftentimes, a sign that a person may be suffering from a binge eating disorder, a serious condition that has plagued more than a handful of individuals.
What is Binge Eating?
Although most people think of binge eating as a layman's term for Bulimia Nervosa, such is not always the case. While both the binge eating order and Bulimia involve the inability to control one's tendency to overeat, the former does not involve making up for these by inducing vomiting or engaging in a vigorous exercise regimen. Most individuals who suffer from this condition are adolescents as well as those in early adulthood.
Effects of Binge Eating
Since binge eating disorders do not involve purging, there is very little risk for injuries to the esophagus; however, it does not mean that binge eating can be safe. In fact, people suffering from this disorder typically tend to suffer also from depression as well as anxiety and substance abuse. They are also more prone to weight again and obesity.
Dealing with Binge Eating
Binge eating is more than just having the willpower to control the urge to eat. That being the case, a person with such disorder would first have to realize what are the different changes in his or her regular activities could have brought about the binge-eating episodes.
People around someone with binge eating disorder would also have to realize that not all with this condition are obese. Some of them might appear healthy enough but would still engage in overeating even when they are already full. In the same manner, not all people with weight problems are suffering from binge eating disorders.
Lastly, the patient and his or her support system should realize that a binge eating disorder is as serious as anorexia or bulimia nervosa. This means that individual therapy as well as regular consultation with a nutrition professional is important.
Bouncing in the Safe Zone: The Importance of Trampoline Enclosures
It's fun to bounce on a trampoline. Kids love jumping on it and some adults use it as fitness equipment. While jumping is fun, it may lead to injuries when people accidentally bounce off the trampoline range.
Trampolines.com knows that trampoline owners should prioritize safety when using the trampoline. It is important to enclose the trampoline under a safety net.
Why should people install a safety net?
Prevents People from Falling Off
The net catches you in case you lose your balance. Children and adults can lose their balance at any time while jumping. The probability of being injured is high especially when people land on the ground. Any injury arising from the fall may prevent them from bouncing on the trampoline again.
Here's a good tip to prevent from falling off: Bounce on the center. You are less likely to fall off.
It Makes People Comfortable
Without the net, people, specifically adults, would not attempt to jump as high as they want. They hesitate to increase their jump height and make the experience less fun.
People are assured of their safety the moment they see an enclosed trampoline. They know that the net will safely catch them. This assurance makes jumping fun and comfortable.
Discourages Children from Attempting Dangerous Moves
Some children who see the net may not be tempted to bounce over it. They are most likely to stay within the enclosure. In the event that they do bounce hard, they won't go beyond the range as the net will catch them and prevent them from falling off the trampoline.
If you are a parent, it is important to continue to supervise your children. The net does not replace adult supervision. Let the children have fun but remind them not to overdo it.
When installing a safety net, make sure to zip it before anyone starts jumping on the trampoline. Even with the net installed, people may fall off the trampoline if the zipper remains open.
The Things You Didn't Know Window Blinds Can Do for You
Because your home is one of the biggest, if not the most expensive investments you have made, you have to do what you can not only to preserve its appearance but also enhance its beauty and its functionality. This way, your house can really become a home – one that has great liveability and great value.
For example, Online Blinds Shop cites window blinds as worthwhile additions. These window treatments, aside from offering you a quick way to beautify your home, will not cause a huge dent in your wallet. But these are just their primary benefits, here are a few other advantages of installing window blinds.
Protect you against higher than necessary utility bills.
Installed in the right place, such as at your home's eastern and western elevations, as well as east, west, and north-facing windows, blinds, both the interior and exterior type can help create a passive design for your home.
Passive design is important for having more control over the effect of Perth's climate, and helps you bring down utility costs. With window treatments like roller blinds, venetian blinds, vertical blinds or Roman blinds set up in your home, you can block excessive sunlight and heat from entering through your windows, thus helping you rely less on your air conditioning system. This also applies during the cold and chilly winters in Perth, wherein you can use your blinds to trap the heat from your wood fire or heater.
Furniture, flooring, and upholstery protection.
The sun's UV rays can cause the integrity and colour of your expensive furnishings, such as wooden furniture and floors, as well as carpeting and upholstery, to fade prematurely.
All in all, when you use blinds to control the amount of sunlight entering your home, you can enjoy lower utility bills, help your beautiful furnishings last longer, and of course, increase your home's overall value and appeal.
Why You Should Consider Your Very Own Winter Wedding
Winter weddings may not favor a number of brides, but if you would like your wedding to be unique and memorable, then go for this one. You'll find out it's the best choice you've made.
June brides… Spring brides… These are often overused terms when referring to a bride. Why not settle for December, when the snow is glistening and you look simply lovely in that grand wedding dress? Yes, some may not even consider a winter wedding for one second, but it may just be the best option that you have if you really want to make your special day truly memorable.
That Unique and Special Feeling
Don't you want your wedding to be a bit different from many of your friends and acquaintances, perhaps from a co-employee who doesn't think highly of you? A winter wedding is not something many opt for because of the cold, but it's one thing that will make that special day truly unique from the rest! And since it is truly special, you will treasure that feeling as you walk down that white aisle towards your dashing groom!
A Memorable Wedding
The fact that you would be having your wedding in winter is already something that makes it more memorable. To add to its being remembered eternally by family and guests, Bridal Guide suggests you spike up on the decorations. Choose a theme that is unique, which speaks of your relationship. Veer away from the standard "regular" wedding setup. Brides also suggested that if it's not too much, just surprise guests. A personalized note for each one will be off the charts!
Choose the Best Planner
While you and your maid of honor may have plans for the wedding, you may want to solicit the help of a wedding planner, especially if you foresee that you would be quite busy during the preparation stage. The grand setting of your wedding is so important that you should entrust this aspect to reliable people. Think "Frozen" for a second. You can also derive some inspiration from Elsa's dress which really does make her stand out.
Go for that Lovely Winter Honeymoon
Aside from the fact that your wedding is held during winter, the best way to spice it all up is a nice winter honeymoon at some ski lodge in the Colorado areas. There are so many things you can do there as newlyweds. Just check out a ski shop in Vail and you will be overwhelmed with the options you have.
So if you are still wondering what type of wedding you would have, then go for a winter wedding. It will be a unique wedding that you will never forget.


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A Mastermind Group is a group of people who gather together who have similar interests, activities, or goals in mind. Napoleon Hill was said to have started this term although the idea has been circulating even earlier.
For us music teachers, it can be very helpful to be a part of the same kind of people who are walking in the same journey, same direction as ours. Being a part of seniors and even young rising music teachers can have an over-all positive impact if we work together.
Find out more below how Mastermind Groups can benefit you!
Top 10 Reasons for Joining a Mastermind Group
- Support
- If for example you have encountered a difficulty in your teaching business and somebody in the group have overcome that difficulty, that person will be able to help you get through that as well.
- Accountability
- In our music teaching business, we can sometimes get caught up with a lot of things to do not from just teaching, but from doing other tasks such as filing taxes, paying bills, marketing, and so on and forth. Having a group such as this will help you get in track of your goals and most especially reach that goals and stay focused.
- Community
- Abraham Maslow said that it is one of our innate needs as humans to belong or to be a part of a group of people we identify ourselves with. Being a part of a mastermind group will surely fill up that need.
- Networking
- This is also a way to cross-promote, establish new partnerships, or referral systems. For example, you have met a student who lives in a different location you cannot serve, you can refer that to your mastermind peer and even ask for a referral fee if you want. Another thing is to add business partners in a partnership or even corporation setup.
- New Learnings
- Have you ever experienced learning something new from someone just by having a casual conversation with them? I'm sure you have.
- Brainstorming
- For example, an entirely new situation comes up and no one has ever experienced that before. Then, this is the perfect time to brainstorm with your peer group and get some "master" minds running!
- Increased income
- Since we are in the business side of things, it is expected that masterminding's natural consequence is to improve your business acumen and thereby generate more income for you.
- Satisfaction of Helping Others
- Doesn't it feel good to help others? and even feels better when others help you back? Giving support, feedback, ideas, are sure signs of helping.
- Encouragement
- There might be times when you face challenges in your journey as music teacher or music school owner, this will be the perfect time to receive that extra boost of encouragement such as "Hey, you can do it! It's gonna get better just hang on." In the other side of the coin you can also do the same for others.
- Strength in Numbers
- There is an old saying that there is strength in numbers, of course if you work together in harmony. And as music teachers, we definitely know what harmony means!
If you find yourself wanting to be part of a music teaching business mastermind group, join right here >>> Music School Success Mastermind Group.
For more music teaching and business tips subscribe to our Youtube Music School Success TV (MSSTV) or to our newsletter.


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Losing balance and difficulty walking is more common than you think
There are multiple factors why we may lose our balance as we get older. For example, in an older population losing balance, falling or struggling with walking can be associated with the side effects of the medication a person may be taking, changes to a person's eye sight or hearing or even related to other health problems such as loss of feeling in the feet noted in diabetics for example. One of the biggest causes however is associated with inactivity and the loss of muscle mass and strength associated with the normal ageing process. Our balance reactions also reduce as we become more dependent of objects to help us walk such as walking aids and sticks.
The loss of strength can also impact everyday tasks such as getting out of a chair or getting up and down stairs. This can have a profound effect on somebody not such physically but socially and psychologically.
Physiotherapists regularly use a test called the single leg stance test to identify a person's balance reactions and the strength of the muscles around your hips, pelvis and lower back region. It involves standing on one leg and timing yourself. This is a movement pattern we use everyday such as walking, for example consider the act of standing on one leg when you move the other leg through or when you lift the leg up to ascend a flight of stairs.
How to perform the test:
Find a solid floor surface, not on carpet. Take your shoes off. Cross your arms and lift one leg up to a similar level to the other ankle. Keep your eyes open and fix on one point. You can time yourself up to 45 seconds. Stop the timing if you lose balance or your arms come away or if you have to put your leg down to the ground.
So what does this tell you?
Well, if you are not able to maintain your balance for more than 10 seconds research and experience indicates you have a significantly higher risk of falling, which obviously can be extremely dangerous depending on your age and health. It indicates that your balance reactions are not as good as they can be. Being unable to stand on one leg for a period of time can also indicate a loss of strength around the hip area and specific muscles that are key to maintaining stability around here.
What can you do?
Well, the simplest exercise to help improve this is simply to practice this movement regularly, trying to ensure your ability to stand on one leg for longer improves with time. I would also recommend a series of specific exercises to help strength the muscles which would make a significant difference to your balance.
Help is at Hand!
Do not despair as there is always something that can be done to help. Exercise and a well-designed and graduated exercise programme can help reduce and at times reverse these changes. Everyone can improve regardless of age.
Here at Urban, we are starting a brand-new class called the strong & steady class. Monday mornings at 10:30am. It is run by myself and is tailored to older individuals that have had a history of falling, find exercise difficult may be due to health-related problems or for individuals who find everyday tasks hard such as stair climbing or getting out of a low chair.
If you are interested or know somebody that would benefit from a supervised physio led programme drop us and email or call to find out more.


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Castelli - Viva Thermo HeadbandView Larger Image
Castelli Viva Thermo Headband
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What's your favorite (head)band?
For those days when a full skully would be a bit of overkill, but the wind is still nipping at your ears, the Viva Thermo Headband makes a perfect go-to. The fleece-lined ThermoFlex material that comprises it is warm and soft, stretching easily to accommodate a wide variety of domes, yet it's also especially breathable and never lets you overheat. It's raw-cut edges don't bunch and won't apply pressure points to your head under your helmet, making this light cap something you'll almost forget it's there — until you take it off, of course.


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"The finalists for this year's 3QD prize write in very different genres, but they were all very impressive, which made the task of choosing just three difficult indeed."
She did not chose my musings on Alice. The winners offer an enormous breadth of literary thinking, not constrained to the Western tradition. In other words, she went beyond the usual suspects (and we mean you, Brideshead).
Here are the winners:
Top Quark: Namit Arora, Joothan: A Dalit's Life
"Namit Arora's powerful review of Omprakash Valmiki's Joothan: A Dalit's Life for 3Quarks Daily places this 1997 memoir in a personal, cultural, and literary context. Arora gives a very moving portrayal of a kind of life I knew little about, an honest reckoning of the privileges of his own upbringing, and a thoughtful analysis both of Valmiki's work in Hindi and its translation into English."
Strange Quark: Edan Lepucki, Reading and Race: On Slavery in Fiction
"All too often, the subject of race is felt to be the sole purview of people of color —-as if white people were completely unaffected by racial history or reality. Edan Lepucki's candid piece for The Millions, in which she discusses her exposure to questions of race and slavery through various novels, shows us how literature, which requires us to have imaginative empathy, can also help us develop actual empathy."
Charm Quark: Elliot Colla, The Poetry of Revolt
"Elliot Colla's analysis of Egyptian revolutionary slogans for Jadaliyya is both
sensitive and original. In discussing how poetry is created, performed, and remembered —-not just right now in Tahrir Square, but also during earlier historical periods-—he reminds us that literature and life are not distinct or divergent spheres, but indivisible aspects of the human experience."


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While we love showcasing our fiction books, we have a lot of non-fiction about the place, so it's good to be able to dust that off for the challenge.
Did you find some interesting books to read? Here are some of the books we've been reading:
Brenda Carter read The Events That Shaped the History of Japan, by Sachiko Iwayama.
The 79-year-old Edge Hill (Cairns) author has condensed thousands of years of Japanese history, culture and traditions from almost 800 sources into a thoroughly readable and engaging book. It explores Japanese beliefs and religion, the role of women and samurai, haiku, sushi and the tea ceremony, along with key events from Japan's political and economic history. The clear, chronological storyline and fascinating anecdotes will take readers on a journey through Japan from 10,000 BC to the 1940s.
Scott Dale read George Orwell: Essays, by George Orwell.
I started with "Politics and the English language". In this essay, Orwell laments poor writing, gives five examples of bad writing of the time (1946) and suggests six simple rules to avoid writing like the examples provided. He does point out that it is possible to follow these rules and still write poorly – but I think they are a great tool for all of us to use when writing. One fun game is to apply the rules to the essay itself and see if it adheres to its suggested standards.
1. Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.(Excerpt from George Orwell's Politics and the English Language)
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.
Sharon Bryan read Literary Nonfiction: The Fourth Genre, by Stephen Minot.
When I saw the theme for this week was "A Non-Fiction Book", I couldn't help myself – I had to revisit this book (which can be found at 808.042 MIN).
Literary nonfiction (or creative nonfiction [or non-fiction]) is a highly successful genre in the world of book selling. If you aren't sure what literary nonfiction is, just imagine a book on the same subject as your textbook, only actually fun to read. The point of literary nonfiction is that it's enjoyable as well as informative – it's something you would read for fun and pleasure while learning something at the same time.
Minot's book provides some advice and guidelines for budding authors thinking about being the next Bill Bryson or Oliver Sacks. It provides writing advice as well as some examples of different writers' work. You'll also find some exercises to get you started. The book has its strengths, but personally a think a better introduction to the subject is David Starkey's Creative Writing: Four Genres in Brief – which we also have.
PS, if you want to find out what the other three genres are, you'll just have to read the books.


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This will be a blog about the crazy nightmare that is the Ivory Theatre in St. Louis, a new venue created in St. Louis in 2007 out of the old St. Boniface Church. Redeveloped by some high-powered St. Louis real estate developers, the project was inexplicably laid in the hands of perhaps the worst theatre manager in the history of St. Louis theatre, a woman so incompetent, so dishonest, and so lacking in experience or knowledge of theatre that in this blog we'll refer to her -- as many others do -- only as "The Horror Show," you know, to protect the idiotic, or however that goes.
If you'd meet her, you'd understand.
This epic misadventure, which I'll dub The Ivory Theatre Horror Show, began back in 2006 and looks likely to end (badly) in 2008. It began with Donna Perrino... oops, I mean Horror Show... calling local theatre companies asking them to be a part of this Exciting New Theatre. What none of these companies knew at the time (but they sure know now) was that Horror Show was making promises never meant to be kept, that she rarely tells the truth, and that in fact her reputation as a confirmed lunatic preceded her in St. Louis. But three local companies, oblivious to all that, signed on anyway.
New Line Theatre was the first to suffer through her continual and increasingly bizarre abuses, throughout the summer and fall of 2007, but many others have gone down this sad, surrealistic road since. The NonProphet Theatre Co. suffered through two shows; several local actors suffered through a failed fundraiser showcasing scenes from the (painfully amateurish) musicals she's written (attendance was 42 when the show started, 12 when it ended with her "jazz opera"); several individuals in the theatre community suffered their own private hell with her; and finally, when she brought in a production of A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline, both local and non-local artists suffered through her abuse and incompetence.
(After foolishly scheduling a run of four weeks, eight shows a week, Horror Show neglected to send out any press releases, so three of the four weeks of the Patsy Cline run played to houses of six people a night, eight people, fifteen, twelve... Attendance for the first twenty-something performances only broke thirty twice.)
As far as this blogger knows, watching this catastrophe somewhat from the outside, everyone who suffered her abuse -- three different theatre companies and several individuals -- has reported everything to the developers, including the artists from out of town. And the developers have done virtually nothing.
Most of the people and companies involved with the Ivory Theatre are now trying to escape, and sadly, this beautiful theatre may soon be without any tenants at all. The developers are convinced that Horror Show is Just Terrific at her job, that the Patsy Cline show was a tremendous success, and that they owe their tenants neither protection from the abuses nor explanation.
This blog will attempt to record the history of this mess going back to late 2006, as accurately as it can be reconstructed. Luckily there are lots of records since most of the victims wrote long letters to the developers detailing the lunacy and sent dozens of emails back and forth to each other, to their boards, and to others involved (me included). New Line also kept detailed notes on all of this, which were emailed to their board, to the owners of the Ivory, and to the other companies and people involved; a lot of the details in this blog have come from those emails.
If this chronicle can help others avoid the horrors that have already terrorized so many, then it will have accomplished its goal.
Sic semper tyrannis!
An Ivory Survivor


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Taking the spotlight away from his brother on the race track most recently, Nicholas Hamilton said that he "took no stupid risks" on his maiden Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship weekend at Croft Circuit.
The brother of two-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton made his BTCC bow for AmDTuning at the North Yorkshire venue two weekends ago, netting three finishes from three and scoring a best result of 22nd in the final outing.
While the rookie's pace and results improved throughout the weekend, the man himself looked back fondly on the experience, admitting that he felt "huge improvements" compared to test outings prior to the event.
"It was as tough as I expected it to be", Hamilton said. "I did what I needed to do when you consider it was my first race start, the first time I've run down to turn one in the pack and so on.
"The track was a lot different to [Saturday], so I need to build up my confidence again and there is certainly more to come – I know I can go quicker.
"I'm still learning all the time and it was tough again. I'm gaining in confidence and it's all about keeping out of trouble and not taking any stupid risks."
Risk-taking is something that AmD-Tuning team boss, Shaun Hollamby, had factored in when bringing the youngster to his squad prior to the 2015 campaign, the former BTCC racer electing for a part-time programme for Hamilton to allow for more effective prepartion in the Audi S3 leading to his debut.
"I think any rookie coming into a series as competitive as BTCC would benefit actually from having a proper testing programme in the right conditions rather than throwing them into a race situation", said Hollamby to TCF, who praised Hamilton's performance.
"What we want to do now is push him forward and then move him up the grid in BTCC."
After practice and qualifying concluded with little drama to speak of, Hamilton found himself able to get into the groove quickly on the Sunday afternoon in North Yorkshire.
Qualifying just 4.1s off the pace of Sam Tordoff – driving a West Surrey Racing BMW that dominated the weekend – was certainly an encouraging start for a competitor with so much to overcome, particularly when you consider that he was previously confined to a wheelchair.
A finish in the opening race also left the man himself smiling, finishing ahead even of a tactical Jason Plato before backing off following contact with a tyre barrier late on.
Hamilton added: "The race itself went okay and I'm happy with what I did. I planned to pick up places where I could, which is what I was doing, and it was good to run with the field and see how others were driving. I made a small mistake a few laps from the end when I clipped a tyre stack and I thought the car was damaged, so I eased off a bit and that was when the leaders caught and lapped me.
"I made up quite a few places into turn one but then just wanted to focus on myself and what I have to do, so when others tried to make a move, I was happy to let them go."
Mistakes learned, Hamilton was not to be lapped for the remainder of the day, and comfortably so. In fact, three finishes were on the board by sunset as the action concluded at Croft, results of 25th and 22nd rounding off the AmD man's debut.
"No Need To Take Risks At This Stage"
Summing up the action, Hamilton added: "With the position I'm in at the moment, there was no point trying to defend against an aggressive move and risk damaging the car when the most important thing is to finish the races.
"Race three was really positive as it was the first time I'd done a race on the soft tyre and I had to learn about how it would perform as we'd only done a few runs in testing.
"It all came down to experience. I wasn't quite as consistent in my times and the performance of the tyres dropped away, but it was good to pick up another solid finish."
Hamilton will not be present for the meeting at Knockhill, but will next race at Snetterton next month (8/9 August).
Analysing his own progress, Hamilton said the maiden race weekend in BTCC machinery was, albeit eye-opening, hugely positive.
"Overall, the progress I think I've made from the first test at Brands Hatch to the end of the third race here has been huge and I'm only going to get better with more time in the car and more experience."


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Update – 8/13
The Mets have activated Jose Reyes from the 15-day disabled list today, he is leading off and playing shortstop in his first game back. Reyes went 2 for 6 with two walks and two stolen bases during his two game rehab stint with the Brooklyn Cyclones.
Matt Reynolds was sent back down to the Las Vegas 51s along with right-handed pitcher Logan Verrett. The Mets have also called up right-handed starter Gabriel Ynoa for the first time in his pro career.
Rehab Recap – 8/12
Mets infielder Jose Reyes had another solid night in his second rehab game for the Brooklyn Cyclones on Friday night, with general manager Sandy Alderson in attendance.
Reyes played third base for the Cyclones and went 2-for-5 at the plate with a double, an RBI and two runs scored.
Staff Writer Jacob Resnick covered the last two games for MMO and took some nice photos of Reyes who has looked very impressive on the basepaths as well as at the plate where his swing has looked smooth and easy.
Facing a lefty starter, Reyes was able to swing right-handed which was great to see. His rehab was delayed a couple of days because he was still feeling some discomfort batting righty.
The plan now for Reyes is one more rehab game before joining the team for the finale against the San Diego Padres on Sunday, just before the Mets begin their next road trip.
Original Report – Aug 11
Jose Reyes began a rehab assignment yesterday in Brooklyn, where he is recovering from a grade one oblique strain.
Reyes, 33, played five innings at third base for the Cyclones. Leading off the game and wearing number seven, Reyes walked and stole second, before getting stranded at third base.
Then in the third inning, Reyes swiped his second bag of the game with ease before coming around to score the game's first run.
In his final at bat, Reyes flied out to left field after swinging at the first pitch. Despite playing the hot corner, Reyes did not have any chances in the field, mostly due to Justin Dunn's high strikeout total.
After his five inning stint, Reyes addressed the media in the Cyclones clubhouse. "I feel good. I was able to take a few swings, steal two bases and slide in to second base without any problems. No complaints for my first game."
Asked how much pressure he feels to contribute upon his return, Reyes responded, "I feel no pressure, but I just want to be there with the boys. They're going through some tough times right now and I just want to be there with my positive energy and help out any way I can."
Reyes also expressed his happiness with rehabbing in Brooklyn.
"I like to be here, (New York) is my home. And I've got an opportunity to sleep in my own bed."
Fortunately for Reyes, his rehab will continue with the Cyclones through Saturday. He is slated to play two full games at third base and shortstop before returning to the big league club.
(Photos: Jacob Resnick, MMN & MMO)


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Self Compassion and Mindfulness
Our sense of self-worth and our self-esteem are rising and falling depending on our latest success or failure. In our highly competitive society we learn to be constantly above average to feel good about ourselves, but there is always someone better than we are. In this experiential 4 week course we go inward to find and explore our sense of self-compassion through mindfulness, meditation exercises and body awareness.
Day: Wednesdays.
Start Date: Wednesday 16th May
Time: 6-8pm
Length of course: 4 weeks
Venue: Mind your Karma – Retreat and Self Development Centre, 390 Oceanbeach Road, Mount Maunganui
Course Fee: $195 (incl. GST)
Tutor : Kati Ludwig – Registered Psychologist, Coach and Yoga Teacher
Phone: 021 2544 294
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com