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Clean and Green Vancouver offers the finest housekeeping and cleaning services. We service Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR.
Everlasting Ezekiel offers different kinds of professional services, which include moving, landscaping, painting, and cleaning services, among many others.
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Ark Home Maintenance Cleaning provides much-needed professional exterior home maintenance cleaning to the Portland/Vancouver Metro area of Oregon.
Mess Maid Right NW is a professional cleaning company dedicated to providing quality residential and commercial green cleaning.
Niki?s Cleaning Services is a team of licensed home and commercial cleaning experts looking for new customers.
A&S Janitorial provides professional cleaning services to both residential and commercial clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
I am Gabriel Clagett of eCleaning Services. We are a house cleaning industry that provides cleaning services to homes in a regular basis, once per week or twice per month. We also do move in and out ...
I am an independent cleaner and businesswoman who has over 33 years of cleaning experience.
We are All Surface Cleaning Company and we provide superior, affordable and environmentally friendly cleaning for roofs, gutters, and decks.
House Calls by Magic Maid has been House Cleaning & Window Cleaning as well as Commercial Cleaning since 1988. If you're looking for Housecleaners, Look no further! We are locally owned and operated, ...
Check Maid Cleaning offers house cleaning services to all residential homes in Portland, OR.
Hello, we are Coit Cleaning and Restoration of Portland. We offer carpet cleaning, drapery cleaning and upholstery cleaning. We also provides: Tile and grout cleaning, Natural Stone Cleaning, Air ...
My name is Faridda Abraham. I am licensed, bonded and insured plus I have over 13 years of experience. I do residential, commercial and industrial cleaning.
PLK Janitorial Service is a family and locally owned business specializing in residential and office space cleaning.
We offer House Care Services at affordable rates. Serving North Albany and surrounding areas.
Hi! I'm Diane Robertson. I clean houses well and regularly, and know what needs to be done, as I am a busy mom of two beautiful children. I prefer houses on the West Side of Portland, with at least ...
Whitney's Maid For You is a locally owned and operated residential cleaning company. We are an honest and reliable business that you can count on for all of your cleaning needs. We specialize in ...
My name is Sarah of Sacred Space Domestic Services. I am young, very able-bodied, capable, resourceful, creative, dedicated and upbeat.
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Jacky's House Cleaning focuses on interior house cleaning such as bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and much more.
Whether you're moving today, tomorrow, next week, or next month...if we're not on an appointment we are ready to service you. Forget the extra charges for last minute moves, you provide the vehicle ...
I need service for cleaning my yard please call me for details.
I need vacation rental cleaning which varies each week with many times only a 4-hour window. House clean, linens and towels washed, beds made. About 1900 sq. ft. with 3 bedroom and 2 baths. Please email or call your estimates. Thank you.


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Zee TV is an India-based satellite television channel in the Zee Network umbrella, which carries broadcasts in Hindi and other regional languages of India. As well as broadcasting in South Asia, it also reaches audiences in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, East Asia, Australasia and North America. It is a part of the Essel Group.
Search Keywords: Zee Tv live tv, Zee Tv tv, Zee Tv online tv, Zee Tv online tv stream, Zee Tv tv stream, online tv, live tv, Zee Tv

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Quick scribbles of some of my BLUsers done on tegakiE.
For Lesk.
Will, you are such a diva.
Happy Canada Day.
I dont even watch MLP: Frindship is magic. But making ponies is hilarious anyway.
I miss this little motherfucker.
25 Essential Expression with John
Blank version here.
This is an Art/Ask blog for several TF2 OCs. There are going to be drawings of that characters here and what not.
Info: This used to be an ask blog for a BLU medic which I recycled. I won't delete the previous content.
This is a side blog. It can not follow back.
This blog runs under the same account like the Jolly Jumping Lamb blog.


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Split decision: A/B testing online is a nice article introducing a topic some people may not be familiar with. The idea is you test one version against another to see which performs better on some benchmark.
5-Second Tests: Measuring Your Site's Content Pages is even simpler. "It has a similar structure to traditional usability tests—you'll have users, tasks, and the site you're testing. The difference is in the specific protocol for running the test."
Testing works. Asking for opinions, on the other hand -- not so much.
First Rule of Usability? Don't Listen to Users explains use is different from talking about use. Self-reported data is three layers of abstraction removed from reality.


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Vintage TV Converted Into
the Cutest Kitty Lounge
Final Frame
Even if you don't care for felines, you've got to admit Melissa's vintage TV converted into a kitty lounge looks awfully comfy (complete with LED lighting and wallpaper decor inside) and is a commendable example of reusing outdated technology. Check out more photos over at Moderncat.com.
5 Comments
seriously? i guess i don't share others love of cats enough to like this..
Everything about this is uh mah zing. And it actually looks like something cats would use! Just love the level of detail.
There's also been numerous examples of people converting similar sets into aquariums and terrariums if you like scaled roommates. Small canines could probably fit inside too. I don't think you have to love cats to appreciate the DIY reuse and care behind making something meaningful to the owner made from something that is usually discarded. It's just Channel Awesome in my TV Guide.
Great re-use. Saves 1 thing from the landfill, gives the kitties something fun and practical and would make me smile every time I looked at it. Also beats spending more than $200. on a cat condo or similiar construction. Very cute.


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Negative Oraquick Result At 12 Weeks
Here's a taste of what TheBody.com has to offer on this topic:
Connect With Others
9 week post exposure, muscle twitches, 7 week Oraquick rapid negative result.
Posted by treeoflife1, 1 Replyany way muscle twitches can have anything to do with 9 weeks post exposure HIV, Read more »
Negative oraquick, definitely positive though. *DELETED*
Posted by beingborn, 2 RepliesPost deleted by beingborn Read more »
Negative OraQuick test. Can I Whoo-hoo?
Posted by Anonymous, 3 RepliesFive years ago, I had unprotected vaginal sex with someone I barely knew. It just happened once. And since then, with the 2 other men I've slept with I've used protection.
About 3 months later, I had to have my appendix removed. A year after that,... Read more »
How accurate is the Oraquick at 6/7 Weeks
Posted by DSKMan, 1 ReplyI just did an Oraquick at 6/7 Weeks past exposure and once again it is negative. How accurate is this test at 6/7 weeks? I was told it should test positive for the vast majority of people now, but I am still negative despite of all of my clear... Read more »
3 week NEG with oraquick
Posted by Anonymous, 2 Repliesi just got a 3 week NEG with oraquick after a possible exposure. i knowi have to wait for 3 months. but can /i be somewhat confident in this result Read more »
Ask the Experts
Oraquick Results at 12 weeks....WOOHOO?Dr. Bob,I have just taken the Oraquick test at the 12 week mark. It came back negative. However, unlike my previous time, the nurse asked me to swab my gums with the Oraquick stick. I did this while she was there directing me through this process....
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS FoundationHi KRB,You performed the test correctly. It's official. You are WOO-HOO certified! Congrats!Stay well.Dr. Bob... Read more »
Oraquick Oral Swab In-Home HIV test (12 weeks & 13 weeks)Dear ShannonThank you for your time and patience in answering questions on this forum.I took an OraQuick Oral Swab In-Home HIV test at 12 weeks and another one at 13 weeks post potential exposure. Both resulted in only 'C' line and no...
Response from Shannon Southall
Rocky Mountain CARESHiFirst the guidelines for testing are to be initially tested at 3 weeks post exposure then again at 90 days if this test is negative than so are you.Second, for the home test, the line in the C means the test was run correctly and no line in the T... Read more »
oraquick home hive test resultsIt's been about 2 years since a potential exposure and I have taken 4 oraquick home tests this week. Followed directions carefully as instructed and all 4 came out clearly negative. Would a flu shot a month or so before impact results?...
Response from David Wohl, M.D.
University of North Carolina - Chapel HillFlu shot does not alter HIV testing results. DW... Read more »
Oraquick or ELISA Test at 12 weeks?Dr. Bob,Which test should I take the Oraquick or ELISA when I go for my 12 week test on August 8? I have done both. It is kinda hard to compare test results with the Oraquick. But with the ELISA, it could be done. This is the reason why I am asking...
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS FoundationHello,Both OraQuick and ELISA are considered to be highly accurate at 12 weeks. I see no reason to "compare test results." Either OraQuick or ELISA will give a definitive and conclusive result if negative at 12 weeks. If positive, the... Read more »
Clinics Using OraQuick Oral HIV Test Reporting Rates of False-Positive Results Within Limits on Label, OraSure AnnouncesOraSure Technologies on Tuesday in a statement said most sites the company has contacted regarding issues with its oral OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV 1/2 Antibody Test have reported rates of false-positive results within the expected limits that are... Read more »
San Francisco, NYC Report False Positives From OraQuick Oral HIV Test; CDC to Issue Advisory Recommending Additional TestCDC this week will issue a public health advisory recommending that all HIV-positive results from OraSure Technologies ' oral, rapid HIV tests be followed up by the company's rapid "finger stick" test after reports of an "unusual" number of... Read more »
OraQuick Test Hits Market, Test's Viability Among Low-Income Populations UncertainImage courtesy of National Latino AIDS Action Network Earlier this week, a new at-home HIV testing kit was released on the market , populating the shelves of convenience store juggernauts such as Rite-Aid, Walgreens, and CVS , among others . The... Read more »
Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center Discontinues Use of OraQuick Oral HIV Test After False-Positive ResultsThe Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center on Thursday announced it is discontinuing use of OraSure Technologies ' oral OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV 1/2 Antibody Test after the center reported 13 false-positive test results in November, the Los Angeles... Read more »
Guides for People With HIV


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Thursday, February 10, 2011
Canele Blabber II Chez Pim Ponce of Canele
When TV 'Chefs' are presented as experts or masters it generally gets my goat. Here at home we don't even have a TV. When we do watch, we find mostly crap pandering to the lowest common denominator.
Online, where there is somewhat less of a greed factor, things are different. Diversity is hard wired into the online world. Anyone can blog or post, so skill or ineptitude unsurprisingly runs the gamut. There are the talented, charming and modest, and there are other sad, self aggrandizing creatures who can't say enough about themselves. Just like on television, few have the integrity of Jacques Pepin, Mike Colameco or Lidia Bastianich . Boobs who pander to the common idiot gain fame. It is the same with online boobs. The crassest, sheeple shepherds are often the award winners.
I enjoy the zany and diverse online content that I come across, with a few exceptions. For example, when folks in Philly talk what I perceive to be plain crap, I get all compulsive about speaking out. The same happens with canele 'experts.' Something about caneles draws forth the phony, pretentious and self appointed experts. Google kindly alerts me daily to the use of the word canele online. In the last month or so I've received and investigated many canele alerts.
The news is not good.
Last week Chez Pim went on and on and on and on and on about how she's got it (canele) all figured out. She tells us she makes "perfect" canele, even with silicone. Oh boy! The post is bloated with misinformation, self congratulation and plain old talking to hear herself talk. I hadn't heard of Chez Pim. I've learned she's a minor celeb! When I chided her for publishing mistakes and unfounded theories, she and her sheeple-like minions swooped down on me like pigeons on a Philly soft pretzel. Ouch. Her readers, like those devoted to Rachael Ray or Paula Dean, are not the savviest or highest functioning gourmands.
Next up is the blog of the Institute for Culinary Education. First they give some free publicity to Celine's canele. Celine is a NYC canele person who sells frozen, low calorie, grapefreuit flavored canele! She sells fresh canele too and other flavors. Enough said about that. The culinary "Institute" gives a canele recipe that is plainly wrong. Naturally I pointed out the error. Nicole Kaplan was more receptive than Chez Pim to the correction but the recipe is hopeless as it stands.
Swerve Calgary did a canele post too. I might have been a bit of a prick with this guy, but his canele look just barely acceptable. Yet they are all proud! I had to give them a poke up there in the north.
A Philly food writer alerted me to caneles being baked at Fork Restaurant. She was not complimentary. Anyone had these?
Le Pain Quotidien offers organic, vegan, sugar-free, apple canele. WTF? That is not a canele! Pics of these online look appalling.
Loads of alerts concern purchasing canele molds, best deal, sale etc. The fact is that Fante's has the best prices I've seen anywhere on silicone molds for home use. Last I checked JB Prince has the best prices for copper molds in the US. I understand that Baillardran has an excellent deal on copper molds but it seems like you need someone in EU to access them and then ship em over.
Posted by Gaetano at 4:55 AM
3 comments:
It annoys me when people purport to be experts as well but instead of ripping these people to shreds, why don't post your own recipe and guidance on how to make a proper canele for those us still in the dark?
- February 10, 2011 at 10:55 PM
- gil said...
Your suggestion is appreciated. A more constructive reaction is in order.
- February 10, 2011 at 11:55 PM
- pineapple1 said...
Wonderful post, I'm glad someone else thinks Pim is a hack, and it took you only one post to find that!!! You've got a new reader.
- December 12, 2011 at 8:51 AM
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Multiple Sclerosis Health Center
Multiple Sclerosis: Advances in Research and Treatment
MS: Drug Treatment Options Grow continued...
Fingolimod has been shown in studies to reduce the relapse rate of MS by up to 54% compared to placebo. However, it has serious side effects, with possible heart, lung, and eye toxicity and increased risk of infection. Patients must be closely monitored, and regular eye exams are advised.
Other new drugs for multiple sclerosis that can be taken orally are in clinical trials. If approved, they may offer a welcome end to injections for some patients.
Approval of these drugs will be just the beginning, predicts Cohen, who has been a consultant and researcher for Novartis, which makes fingolimod, as well as for other pharmaceutical companies. He speculates that eight or 10 new medications for MS will become available over the next three to five years, as basic research comes to fruition and scientists discover medicines approved for other diseases that also may help MS patients.
MS: Repairing the Damage
Restoring nervous system function is a hot focus in MS research.
Traditionally, experts believed that once myelin was destroyed, ''that was it," says O'Looney. "Now we know there is the potential for remyelination."
A major research goal is to figure out how to replace the cells that make myelin, which are lost in MS patients. Researchers have had some success using human embryonic stem cells to generate myelin-producing cells. They are studying the effectiveness of adult stem cells. Growth factors (substances that affect the growth of a cell) are also being studied for their ability to repair myelin-producing cells.
The focus has also moved beyond just the myelin to the nerve fibers or axons. ''We know now there is a dynamic interaction between the myelin and the axons," says Peter Calabresi, MD, a professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins University and a leader in this nervous system repair effort.
''The myelin tells the axon (nerve fibers) to be more or less functioning,'' Calabresi says. A better understanding of the interaction, he says, will hopefully help scientists figure out how to rescue the axons and restore the myelin. Calabresi has received grants and consulting fees from Biogen Idec, which makes MS drugs.
Identifying and Treating Disparate Causes of MS
In the past few years, vitamin D has been the focus of many MS researchers. Some studies have found evidence of an interaction between low vitamin D and a common MS genetic variant, called DRB1*1501. The combination appears to boost the risk of getting the disease.
Low vitamin D is viewed by some experts as a potential environmental trigger. "About 35% of all North Americans have low vitamin D," Weiner says. There is some evidence, he says, that MS patients have even lower vitamin D than the general population.
''If you measure vitamin D during an acute [MS] attack, the vitamin D levels go way down," Weiner says. When a patient is in remission, the levels are closer to normal, says Weiner, who has received grants from Teva for basic science research and consulted for Biogen Idec and Merck Serono.


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Peering across the baseball diamond at Spring Mobile Ballpark, Salt Lake Bees manager Keith Johnson spotted one of his former players — someone who hadn't heard the news yet.
"That's my boy over there," he said to the player while gesturing toward the dugout. "He's grown a few inches since you last saw him, hasn't he?"
Losing hand in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas 51s beat Salt Lake 9-7 on Monday, handing the Bees their third loss in the four-game series. > C5
Keith Johnson file
» Salt Lake Bees manager
» Age 42
» Had a 12-year professional playing career, including six major league games with the Anaheim Angels in 2000
» Played the 2002 and 2003 seasons with the Bees, batting .283
Korey Rush file
» East High defensive end
» Age 17
» The 6-foot-2, 245-pound DE had 14.5 sacks in his junior season in helping the Leopards reach the state 4A semifinals
» Committed this month to play football at Arizona State
|Join the Discussion
|Post a Comment
In the dugout, a dark-skinned teenager tilted his head down with a slightly abashed smile that belied his thick, strong frame.
"He's going to play football," Johnson said. "He's going to Arizona State!"
By now, Korey Rush has gotten used to his stepdad's gushing. Although the 17-year-old East High star is taller than a number of the Bees, he's known them since he was a junior high runt who liked to carry a football wherever he went, one who tagged along with Keith.
"Keith" is what Korey calls his stepfather. Korey's dad lives in Missouri, and they talk often, and they've spent summers together over the years.
But since entering Korey's life 10 years ago, Johnson has assumed the responsibility of helping raise a boy into a man.
Johnson develops young talent for a living as a minor league manager, getting prospects ready for the big leagues. But with Korey, one of the top football prospects in Utah, the struggles and successes are different, more personal.
That's why he often calls Korey "son."
"When you're in someone's life that much, you're going to take on a role," he said. "We don't always agree, but everything that's done or said, it comes from a place of love. That's where we are, that's where we've almost always been."
What brought them together was Korey's mother, Malena, the woman both men call the family's "backbone."
Johnson fell for her in 2003, as he was wrapping up his pro baseball career with the Salt Lake Stingers. Korey wondered why the third baseman kept tossing balls up into the stands where his mom was sitting.
It wasn't a lingering mystery. The two started dating, and Johnson began showing up at family events. He got to know Korey, a sometimes goofy, often sweet boy who had been alone with his mom for a while.
Korey was protective of his mother, but slowly opened up to Johnson through sports. They bonded, playing baseball on a diamond in Korey's backyard.
"I knew I could trust him early on," Korey said. "I think that's what made it so easy, I thought he was cool."
But Korey's first love was football. He played on youth teams in Park City, and he dominated with uncommon size and athleticism. It didn't take a scout's eye to know that he had big things in his future. If he kept growing and crashing through opponents like he did, he could be a great player.
Johnson had grown up the youngest of four brothers, and had spent his youth trying to prove he could play baseball and football just as well as they did. He didn't see the same drive from his stepson when he took the football field.
Most of Keith and Korey's sparring sessions revolved around Korey's work ethic — or lack thereof.
"I don't want to say it was easy, but it was easy," Korey said. "I didn't see past second grade football. I thought that was the world. I didn't understand work ethic or why I needed to try hard."
That changed when the family moved to Salt Lake City and Korey began his freshman year at East. There were older defensive linemen who were bigger and better than him. Coaches were pointing out his mistakes in film sessions. For the first time in football, he was getting negative feedback.
He didn't tell his parents how he was hurting from the criticism. Johnson, unaware that Korey was losing passion for the game, kept giving Korey his own advice, adding to the pressure.Next Page >
Copyright 2014 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Oh Boo Hoo! Get over it and go put on your tinfoil hat. Romney was not my first choice, but he is a hell of a lot better than Obama.
Video Comment – This country deserves 4 more years of Obama, and it'll be a cold day in hell before I vote for Romney for anything, let along president. I'll be supporting local and state liberty candidates, but the national RNC can kiss my ass.


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All Events (Agenda View) | Campouts (Stream View) | Merit Badges (Posterboard View) | Printable Calendar (Last updated 7/27/2014)
September – October 2014
The Heart of America Patriot Foundation is kindly requesting that 10-12 Scouts volunteer on Thursday, September 25 from 4:15 pm – 6:30 pm as part of the Heartland Honor Flight. Scouts will greet and escort WWII veterans to their seats for a Pre-flight Orientation and present the colors.
The location is the Kauffman Foundation Conference Center located just off the Plaza at 4801 Rockhill Road.
Scouts must be in Class A uniform – no exceptions.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Tina Seeley and provide scout's name, best contact number and parent/adult name. email@example.com
We will meet at the Department of Transportation Building on the corner of Highway 69 and 167th.
This counts for "Service Hours" and Second/First Class Rank "Activity". Please bring with you or email a Parental Consent Form signed by both the scout and a parent. These are available on the Troop 10 website. They are good for 2 years.
Please wear long pants and bring work gloves.
Parent help for supervision is appreciated. Donuts and drinks provided.
This is the Second of two sessions. The first session of Scouting Heritage Merit Badge was held on May 12th, 2014. Make sure you have complete the work to be done between sessions.
As with all merit badges offered by the Troop before Troop meetings, this class is limited to Scouts who have achieved First Class rank and above. This is to encourage Scouts to focus on working toward First Class rank.
The class date has been moved from September 22 to October 13 due to schedule conflicts.


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Retail chains are a fundamentally implausible economic structure if there's a viable alternative. You combine the fixed cost of real estate with inventory, and it puts every retailer in a highly leveraged position. Few can survive a decline of 20 to 30 percent in revenues. It just doesn't make any sense for all this stuff to sit on shelves. There is fundamentally a better model.
"Today, auctions are a smaller portion of ecommerce than they were in 2001, and even on eBay they are a dwindling . . . [t]hey now account for just 31 percent of all sales on the site and are no longer at the heart of the company's business model."Why have internet auctions fallen out of favour?


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Overflowing with all of the majesty and intrigue of medieval glory days, this magnificent New York Times best seller is a captivating story of passion and loyalty, justice and honor. Beloved storyteller Julie Garwood steps back to the silver-shrouded Highlands of her classic tale The Secret - and hails the return of two unforgettable warriors: Ramsey Sinclair and Brodick Buchanan.
In the dark days after the death of Richard the Lionhearted, lives and lands would fall into upheaval at the hands of a power-hungry British ruler and his violent minions. One victim of the scourge is innocent Gillian, who is a mere child when the cruel and ambitious Baron Alford slaughters her father and tears her family apart. Alford, determined to recover a jeweled box for the despotic King John, is furious when the precious treasure slips through his fingers - only to be lost for more than a decade.
Now a beautiful young woman, Gillian finds the key to resolving her past in handsome Scottish chieftains Ramsey Sinclair and Brodick Buchanan. With the cunning and courage of the daring Scotsmen, and with the friendship of a new ally, Bridgid KirkConnell, Gillian at last fights the unscrupulous Baron Alford, laying claim to her home, her family, and her father's reputation. But in the presence of the mighty warriors, Gillian and Bridgid discover that desire can be a weapon of conquest...betrayal can slay trust in a heartbeat...and the greatest risk of all is surrender - to the deep emotions of unexpected love.
©2010 Julie Garwood (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.
~~~"HOPEFUL ROMANTIC"~~~ *** Love Audio Books....Especially Historical Romances *** ~~ "Reviews Should Never Contain spoilers ~~
"Love the Highlands' Lairds"
This book was romantic, funny, adventurous, and unpredictable. It was a joy to listen to. I liked the first book "The Secret" but thought this second book was even better.
Gillian and Brodrick are definitely two opposites that attract. They are two strong willed people that have some very funny conversations. I absolutely loved one of the conversations after the marriage. I don't want to give anything away but after they marry and she gets mad and says "I was married on a horse" I couldn't breathe - I was laughing too hard!
The narrator did an excellent job. As with the first book there are some people who didn't like the narration but I thought it was great. She did each character with a different voice and that's not easy. Some people complained she whispered a lot. As far as I heard she only whispered when the book said "he/she whispered"
I'm glad I listened to this one.....I loved it!!
"Loved this book"
The story starts rather slow and then once all characters are formed, it grips you to the point where its hard to put it down. Gillian once grown, is threatened by Baron Alford, the man who killed her father, to set out for Scotland & find her long lost sister and to bring her and the jeweled box belonging to King John back to him. If she does not carryout his orders, he threatens to kill her uncle who raised her. She flees with a five year old boy taken hostage by the Baron mistaken for the Laird Ramsey's younger brother. In order to get Laird Brodick's attention and assistance she claims to be his betrothed and since she makes that claim, unfamiliar with the law of the land, she is unaware that by making that claim she is to marry the Laird.
I highly recommend this book. This is a sweet and lovely story. Wish all men were like the Highlanders!!!
"Excellent Writing and Narration"
I absolutely love Julie Garwood's characters and story telling. The women in this historical romance genre are always demure but strong. This book is similar and not as good as The Secret but still an amazing listen. Again I will comment on how much I love Susan Duerden's narration. Although it's a matter of personal taste as one reviewer didn't like her voices, I think they are absolutely amazing. She bring's Julie Garwood's words to life!
Addicted Audiofile!
"Fantastic book!"
Truly enjoyed the narration tremendously, and that, coupled with the great story line of how the heroine saves the day, make this another great period piece by Julie/Susan!
I love to read! With kids, that hobby is impossible...enter Audible...problem solved. Chores that I dread are now quiet time for this Mommy!!!
Loved, loved, loved it! While the romance portion of the story is slow to start, the background information and plot development is well worth the wait.
I will say that I agree the phrase "you know what" spoken by the small child becomes grating, however, if you have children...this is true to life and I believe intentional on the authors part. The secondary romance between Ramsey and Brigid could have gone into a bit more detail for me. I feel that they had great potential as a side story. I loved Brodick in the first novel, and Ms. Garwood stays true to his character in Ransom.
Again in this novel, Susan Duerden's voice is an adjustment for some of the characters. It is not bad, just different. If you were able to enjoy the first novel, I feel her performance is better in this one. Again, if you can't get through the sample...don't BUY the book and then complain about the narration!
Worth a credit if you are a Garwood fan!
Well, if you want to be mentally transported by a gifted author to Medieval Scotland where you'll find some drool-worthy brooding hunky handsome Highlanders who are demanding yes but they're also brave, loyal and true when it comes to helping a damsel in distress - then look no further because this is your book.
This epic adventure captures your imagination from the very start and continues to do so as you picture all the amazing characters and then the plot throws in greed, kidnapping, deception, defiance, danger and couples it with romance, passion, tenderness, compassion and sacrifice. Add some very humorous dialogue and finally finish it all off with the talented narration of SD and you get this exciting romantic tale which will share with you the amusing romantic downfall of two Scottish Lairds as their hearts are forever captured.
Worth a credit? Well, for any historical romance lover it's a definite YES, YES and YES - yes to the credit, yes to the 16 hours of creative listening pleasure and yes to the overflowing storyline of yet another brilliant book by Ms Garwood.
Never judge a book by its movie
"Love Those Lairds"
Both are brilliant, if you can't sit down to read it, you can enjoy listening to it.
In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks
Great voices, I love her narration, some people don't, but I think she is fantastic.
Yes, I actually read the book in one sitting over a weekend. I really couldn't put it down.
I love this Highland Laird Series. It's quirky. The characters are fun & charming.
The dialogue between the Lairds, and there wives is brilliant.
The secondary characters are also lively and charming.
I love all of Julie Garwood's historicals, they are so worth the credits.
I read so I can write
"Couldn't Put it Down"
I would give this six stars if it were possible. After finishing The Secret, I had to get this book and then spent an entire day listening to it.
It is fantastic. Funny, entertaining, and well written, it was just plain enjoyable.
How could you not love a character who when told that his wife is so angry with him that she may never want to see him again answers 'Then she'll just have to keep her eyes closed because I'm taking her home with me'?
Garwood's characters in this series are that kind of characters, and the stories are well told without the excess sex that seems to prevalent in most historical romances.
This is a must read!
"Read "The Secret" first, than "Ransom""
This book is good, but even better if you listen to "The Secret" first.
There is a lot going on at the beginning of the book so it gets a little confusing. If you can stick with it, the story and characters are addicting and will leave you wanting more. The interactions between the main characters are fun, witty and heart-warming. I had a hard time putting the book down and found myself laughing often. My only disappointment was that the secondary love story was underdeveloped and I wish JG would have saved the story for another great book. I have really enjoyed this series.
Love the book but unabridged. I don't think so. Many spaces you would find in an abridged book. Hard to follow.
As always ms Garwood is wonderful.
Would have loved to listen in one sitting but alas not possible.
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GreatSchools Rating
Teacher quality
Principal leadership
Parent involvement
New Principal and leadership. Good teachers. Low parent involvement. Would like to see more tech classes for students. My third kid at the school overall good.
Chaparral does not listen to advice from parents and the student can not take things to school to help with what the parent is asking.
Chaparral Middle School is lacking in teacher parent involvement. My child struggles and I don't find out about it until report card time. A little too late then. The push for diversity is not there. Hispanics are the majority, so the minorities are forgotten. My children see no color, but the school doesn't enforce the minority to teach acceptance. Their interpretation of 'no child left behind' leads to lack of accountability or responsibility on behalf of the student. I must give credit to the school counseling department for final identifying my childs needs and informing of programs they had available to help her. This has been a great step. But overall, I think the school needs dramatic changes.
This is a good school, and the choice is an execlent selection, Great moral and this is coming from a past student... (Kenneth B)
My daughter is in her third year at Chaparral Middle School. We put her in this school with high hopes, instead we were let down, tremendously. There is little to no teacher to parent communication. We repeatedly attempt to speak with teachers and the principal on many occaisions, at no avail. They ignore, procrastinate, and speak rudely to us as parents even after trusting them with our daughters' education for the past three years. We have regularly made attempts to communicate our feelings, and concerns with the faculty, but receive no help or consideration to our daughter. As parents, we are only trying to save you the tears and frustration we have already wasted. Now we are trying to light that 'fire' to learn,in our daughter again.thank you.
I will like to see email being use as a tool of communication within parents and teachers. Today's schedule for work makes it hard to communicate on a regular basis, but getting a bi-weekly report of my kid at school when is not doing as expected by email will really help me keep on track and assist her on any school activity. Also reminders for conferences or activities that I could help on by email will be great.
Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.
The Community Rating is the school's average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.
3700 E Alvord
Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: (520) 545-4700
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In fact, the Cookie House, which is open for families to come down to see Santa, will be hosting a special Santa's Reindeer Night from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 17 in downtown Sandusky.
"The live reindeer is another great reason for kids to come to downtown to see Santa and also the Santa house," said City of Sandusky Recreation Supervisor Victoria Kurt. "And it's free. It's important because it gives this community a chance to get together,"
This Christmas marks the third straight year the reindeer have been a part of the Cookie House fun. Last year, Sartor said roughly 500 people came out to see the animals and hear music from local high school choirs and bands.
"Reindeer Night is a chance for Santa to bring his reindeers to Sandusky to visit the kids, who can get close up," said Sandusky Community Celebrations Council member Susan Sartor. "They can take pictures with the reindeer and Santa."
While the party line answer may be the North Pole, where exactly does one find reindeer?
"They actually come from Wakeman where there's a tree and reindeer farm," Sartor said. "And it was Santa's idea. He wanted to bring the reindeer here."
For those kids who are getting antsy knowing that Christmas – and all of the presents – are right around the corner, there is perhaps no better way to tap into that magical belief than watching them be wowed by reindeer, which will be soon flying Santa around the globe.
"People who haven't been before are missing the history of having community awareness of children's dream," Sartor said. "It's what they'd like to ask for Christmas and to visit with Santa."


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In the meantime, the film protects the said paintwork, so if you removed it after 100,000 miles, the factory paint would be as perfect as the day you drove off the showroom floor. Brabus re-trimmed the interior in Alcantara and fine leather with contrasting red stitching, with red highlights on the instruments. Once the owner had established that his car was to be called Vanish, Brabus made up special sill trim covers, instrument dials, and a plaque for the center console to highlight this fact.
If you're wondering why this SL65 Black doesn't have the usual lightweight race seats, it's because it's a U.S.-spec car. As the race seats do not have side airbags, the Black Series is sold with normal SL63 AMG seats in the States for homologation reasons.
As I had only driven the SL65 AMG Black Series on a smooth test track when it was first launched, I wasn't au fait with its behavior on real-world roads. Brabus has done precisely nothing to the suspension or brakes, so it was a shock to find the KW coilover suspension was really firm even on German roads.
Through town, cross country, and on the autobahn, the ride is best described as restless, and can be rather sudden over short sharp bumps.This reminded me of my experience with the C63 AMG fitted with the notorious Performance Package suspension, which has since been abandoned. It also highlights just how far AMG has come since with the suspension on the SLS AMG, which strikes a near-perfect all-around balance.
There's no question that in an AMG vs. AMG comparison, the less powerful SLS AMG is the faster car around a racetrack. Its exquisite mid-front-engine and transaxle balance quickly shows up the SL65 for the nose-heavy dinosaur that it is.
But the SL65 AMG Black Series is the more spectacular looking machine, and 800 hp, a matte-black finish, and special interior, the Brabus Vanish is icing on an already very rich cake. In looks, performance and sheer attitude, this car is undoubtedly the gloriously extroverted king of the old-school autobahn stormers.
Brabus Vanish
Longitudinal front engine, rear-wheel drive
6.0-liter V12, sohc, 36-valve. Custom turbochargers, enlarged intercoolers, ECU remap
Seven-speed automatic
OEM coilover configuration
OEM assemblies
Wheels and Tires
Brabus forged alloys, 19-inch
Dunlop SP Sport Maxx
Custom matte black paint protection film
Custom leather and Alcantara with constrasting red stitching
Peak Power: 800 hp
Peak Torque: 811 lb-ft


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Style Files: Julia DiNardo
Julia DiNardo is the editor of Fashion Pulse Daily, a website that prides itself on being the "heart beat of fashion." Julia has worked as a designer, professor, writer and editor using her eye for great style to share the very best products and emerging trends with her readers. A fashion devotee, Julia has covered both New York and Los Angeles Fashion Week for the past nine years. Come along on Julia's scouting adventures by following her on Twitter, @FashionPulse.
ECCO: Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
Julia: I never know when inspiration will strike, so I tend to devour a variety of fashion-related media, from magazines to blogs, Women's Wear Daily, Instagram, and Pinterest pics and pins. Sometimes I can revisit my closet, or my Mom's closet, and pull out pieces that ignite a look, born anew, or re-imagine a silhouette mash up or color combination in a fresh way.
ECCO: Whose style do you must admire and why?
Julia: I am most interested in what is functional for every day, and who better than my fellow women of NYC to take as an example of great style? From a celebrity perspective, I am always loving the sartorial choices of Cate Blanchett; she isn't afraid to take fashion risks, and does it with an incredible regal, confident quality that certainly exudes. I think that is dressing well at its core — knowing yourself and being comfortable and assertive with what you are wearing.
ECCO: Describe your personal style in three words.
Julia: Vibrant, fresh and modern.
ECCO: How do shoes play into your outfits?
Julia: Shoes are an integral decision to my daily wardrobe — I usually work from the bottom up - creating an outfit around what footwear I need/want on that particular day, because if the shoe doesn't work with an outfit, in my opinion, it can throw the entire look for a loop! Comfort is key, so finding the right pair, that I can wear with anything, is my ultimate goal.
ECCO: You tried your first pair of ECCO shoes this holiday season. What do you think?
Julia: My first ECCO shoes ever, are the Ouyen Ankle Strap Heels, which look absolutely stunning and have the perfectly balanced amount of heel lift, support, and comfort. It's going to be hard to wear any other heels, as I have a feeling that they will just pale in comparison to these! The leather is gorgeous and the higher cut look great matched with tight streamlined pants, pencil or swinging skirt hems, and I think I could even match the Ouyens with a dressier pair of shorts, come the warm weather. They are versatile, but also comfortable, which oftentimes needs to trump all other issues!
ECCO: What spring/summer 2013 trends are you most excited to try?
Julia: I loved the oversized pearl accessories from Chanel's collection, Lucite jewelry from MM6 Maison Martin Margiela, lace dresses, and am excited for the return of strappy footwear, which I haven't really embraced since the late '90s!
12 Days Of ECCO: ECCO Team Holiday Wish List
We've had a wonderful time these past 12 days sharing with you our Scandinavian holiday traditions and our top picks for the ECCO gifts that will surprise and delight your family and friends.
Today we are sharing with you items on our own holiday wish list.
The members of the ECCO marketing and e-commerce teams are wishing for:
- A trip to California to ring in the new year with west coast friends
- The polka dot J.Crew clutch, perfect for day to evening
- Ina Garten's new cookbook "The Barefoot Contessa: Fool Proof"
- Herbs to grow indoors all winter long
Now that you know our holiday wish list, we hope you get everything on yours!
From all of us here at ECCO, happy holidays!
*Image sources: California, J.Crew, Ina Garten and herbs.
12 Days Of ECCO: New Years Resolutions
The final weeks of December are a time for new years resolutions. What new hobby will you take on? What goals will you set? If your resolutions involve health and fitness, we have the perfect shoes for you.
Run into the new year:
12 Days Of ECCO: Wish For Green
Tis the season for all things red and green. The ECCO shoe and accessories collections both boast beautiful green pieces, perfect additions to your wardrobe or gifts for the stylish women in your life.
Spruce up right here:
12 Days Of ECCO: Scandinavian Holiday Style
ECCO is headquartered in Denmark and we are very proud of our Scandinavian heritage. Our shoes and accessories are all designed with the Nordic sensibilities of simplicity, elegance an appreciation for the natural elements.
Scandinavian design applies to more than just shoes, bags and belts. This holiday season decorate your home in Scandinavian style with these beautiful ideas from interior designer and blogger Michael Wurm Jr. of Inspired by Charm.
*Images courtesy of Inspired by Charm.
12 Days Of ECCO: Gifts For The Golfer
It's no secret, we love golf. If you have a golf fanatic in your life, surprise them this holiday season with the ultimate in golf gear from ECCO.
We have a wide selection of styles and colors for both men and women. Fore!
12 Days Of ECCO: Holiday Handbags
This holiday season give a gift that will truly impress. The ECCO handbag collection is elegant, stylish and sophisticated.
Pick from our tree to put under yours! Shop now:
ECCO Almeria Body Bag in Warm Grey
12 Days Of ECCO: Apres Ski
It's day six of the 12 Days of ECCO and today we have winter getaways on the brain. Are you spending the holiday week skiing or snowboarding? No matter where your winter destination is, we've got the boots to keep you warm.
Which winter boot is right for you? Shop our cozy collection:
*Mountain image courtesy of KCXD.
12 Days Of ECCO: Stocking Stuffers For Him
Christmas eve is just eight days away. With that in mind, we're happy to offer four great ideas for stocking stuffers for the special men in your life.
Surprise him with an item for the ECCO's accessories collection:
12 Days Of ECCO: Cheers With Glogg
At this time of year in the United States we celebrate the holiday season by drinking eggnog. In Denmark, ECCO's home country, the winter tradition is to raise a glass of glogg.
Glogg is a Scandinavian yuletide wine mulled with orange peel and spices like clove and cardamom.
Mix a batch for your family and friends with this recipe. Cheers!
To a large pot, add:
1 750 ml. bottle medium-bodied, not-too-dry red wine
5 cinnamon sticks
1 scant tablespoon whole cloves
1 small fistful of green cardamom pods
1 large fistful of dried bitter-orange peel (fresh orange peel works fine, too)
1 chunk of peeled, fresh ginger (half grated, half sliced).
1. Bring mixture to a boil, lower heat instantly and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Strain liquid through a sieve into a bowl, tie solid ingredients in cheesecloth and return all to the pot.
3. Add 4 or 5 more bottles of wine, and let steep, preferably overnight. When reheating, never let the mixture come to a boil. (You can add brown sugar or vodka to taste.)
4. Garnish with blanched almonds and black raisins. They are delicious when fished out.


text: Kensett, Arkansas is located in White County. Kensett has a population of 1,698 and has shown -2.1% growth since 2000. Of the 690 households in Kensett, 53.1% are owned, 35.4% are rented and 12% are not currently occupied. The median age of homes in Kensett is 27 years and 24.0% of the homes have been occupied by the same residents for more than 5 years. Learn more about Kensett, Arkansas real estate at coldwellbanker.com.


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Introduction by Adam Goldstein
As we have been reporting, we will have eleven ships cruising in Europe this summer visiting 85 ports in 34 countries which provides so many opportunities to visit this fascinating region of the world. In this blog entry, I have asked Patrick Schneider, Director, Shore Excursions, to update you on some of the highlights of the tour program that will be offered for guests visiting Europe this summer. Patrick is one of the leaders in Craig Milan's Land Operations group.
Guest blog by Patrick Shneider
My primary responsibility as Director, Shore Excursions, is to oversee a team of Account Managers who identify and develop the tour programs offered worldwide on Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. I am passionate about providing our guests the opportunity to experience amazing cultures around the world, to try new things they never thought they would and to simply escape from their day to day routine. As a former Shore Excursion Manager onboard Celebrity Cruises, I spent several seasons cruising in Europe and learned to love this wildly diverse region for its culture, history, architecture, and people. In my current role, I travel to Europe periodically for onsite inspections and always find a new place to visit or a new experience to try, regardless of how many times I've been there before.
Since there are so many things to see and do in Europe I wanted to use this blog to share some of my destination and tour recommendations to help first time and returning visitors select ports and cities. While there are many options for exploring Europe during a cruise vacation, from exploring on your own to hiring a tour guide, my following recommendations highlight great tours that we offer.
Whatever you decide, the main point is to take advantage of the unique occasion to experience something different, and learn all sorts of new things!
First-time visitors to the amazing city of Rome, Italy via the port of Civitavecchia will undoubtedly want to experience the famous landmarks they've read and heard about. Rome has an atmosphere and mystique around it, which envelopes its visitors. It has such a deep and interesting history that even if you have visited the city before, you can go back and see something new. Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of Europe's most influential cities! Venues in Rome can be split into religious and secular options with some qualifying as both. The "Rome, the Eternal City" tour offers a religious overview of the city with visits to the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica and Colosseum while our "Imperial Rome" tour offers a secular perspective with stops at the Colosseum, Roman Forum and St. Peter's Basilica. Guests who are returning to this port may want to experience something outside of Rome. The "Olive Oil Tasting & Scenic Drive" is perfect for guests who would like to take in the flavors and history of Etruscan Italy and enjoy the taste of typical Italian products, all homemade in a typical farmhouse located in the beautiful countryside of Tuscania. And for the chef (or want-to-be chef), try your hand at making three types of pasta on the "Pasta Making Experience & Lunch" tour before enjoying a five-course meal with several courses of pasta. Having just returned from a trip to Italy, believe me that there is nothing like Italian pasta. Well, except fresh mozzarella or pizza or wine or homemade olive oil or….
Corfu, Greece is on an island and is the most westerly point of Greece. For me, Corfu is a perfect example as to why the Greek Islands are so sought after as a premier vacation destination. It is full of beautiful scenic views, and has an air of relaxation around it. Even if you just go into the town and walk around, you can feel your stress just melt away. One of the highlights of Corfu is the Achilleion Palace, built by the Empress Elizabeth 'Sissy' of Austria in 1891 and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. And one of the most beautiful spots on the island, celebrated for its unique and natural beauty, is the Bay of Paleokastritsa, known as the Capri of Greece. Both of which can be experienced on the "Achilleion Palace, Paleokastritsa & Old Town" tour. Guests looking for a more low-key experience will love the beaches of Corfu found in the "Dassia Beach Hotel Package."
Guests returning to Europe will find the country of Israel fascinating. It is hard to compare this country with any of our other destinations, when you think of the number of different cultures that have inhabited the region. What I found most surprising and interesting during my visits were all of the different phases the area has gone through – and that you can explore all of these from the ports we visit. Royal Caribbean International visits two ports in Israel to provide guests with a comprehensive experience of the country. The most popular activity from Haifa, Israel is to visit Galilee, the scene of Christ's youth where Jesus was baptized, preached and performed many of His miracles. Other popular sites include the River Jordan, the Mount of Beatitudes, the Church of Multiplication, and Nazareth, which are all visited during our "Nazareth and Galilee – Jesus Ministry" tour. Guests looking for another unique spiritual tour will enjoy learning about Kabbalah on a tour to its birthplace during "The Saffed Kabbalah Experience."
From Ashdod, Israel, the most popular destinations are Jerusalem and Bethlehem. On the "Jerusalem & Bethlehem" tour, guests will travel to Jerusalem to visit some of the most sacred sites in the world, including the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western or Wailing Wall and the Church of Holy Sepulcher. In Bethlehem, guests will visit the Church of the Nativity. Return visitors will be fascinated by The Dead Sea & Massada excursion. Here visitors can soak up the history of the moving site where Jewish zealots held Roman armies at bay for three years followed by a visit to the the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth.
Guests who are looking to take full advantage of the two days in Israel can book the "Grand Overland" tour which features Galilee and Jerusalem and many of the sacred sites I mentioned earlier, as well as lunch in a kibbutz and an overnight stay in Jerusalem with an optional tour of the Old City at night.
Guests cruising in Northern Europe will find the ancient city of St. Petersburg, Russia rich in cultural heritage and a masterpiece of architecture. I have to confess that St. Petersburg is one of my favorite European destinations. While its history is not as long as some of the cities in the Mediterranean, it is very rich and displays one of the most impressive periods of the Russian culture. It is simply fascinating to explore these venues and see how much influence and interaction this empire had with other countries. Additionally, the collection of art and artifacts found in these venues is just beautiful. As with most cities in Europe, one day is never enough to fully explore all they have to offer. With St. Petersburg, you're in luck as many of our cruise itineraries here offer two days in port. Guests can visit their fancy of palaces, cathedrals, museums and much more. On the "Hermitage & Peterhof" tour, guests will visit the Peterhof Palace which is a testament to the pomp, pageantry and extravagance of Russia's ruling class. Also on this tour is Yusupov's Palace which became known as the place of Rasputin's assassination. On the "St. Petersburg Cathedrals" tour, guests will visit St. Isaac's Cathedral which is one of the world's largest cathedrals, the Cathedral of Resurrection on Spilled Blood, which was built on the spot where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated, and St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral, which combines the Baroque style with elements of traditional Russian architecture.
Of course, no trip to St. Petersburg would be complete without a visit to the Winter Palace, which is home to the Hermitage Museum. This enormous complex is comprised of five buildings and displays one of the greatest art treasures in the world. Today, the museum contains more than 3 million exhibits, rivaling the Louvre and Prado in architectural, historical and artistic magnificence (after 10 visits to this fascinating museum, I've probably only seen 30% of its displayed contents). On the "Exclusive Hermitage Museum with Gold Room" tour, the highlight is a visit to the Golden Treasury Room which contains the famous Scythian and Greek gold, numerous royal gifts, and a collection of Western European jewelry made by the most prominent jewelers of the time. Guests looking for a perspective on today's Russia will enjoy the "Local Life Experience: Metro Ride, Kuznechny Market" tour. Or take advantage of the opportunity to visit the home of the Kremlin on the "Journey to Moscow" tour.
I've only talked about five of the 85 ports we're visiting this summer in Europe – if I had unlimited time and space, I could go on for hours about all there is to do in these ports (fortunately for you, that's not the case). For more details on the tours I referenced and the hundreds of other tours we're offering, you can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/ShoreEx.


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Adelaide <<AD uh layd>> is the capital and chief port of the state of South Australia. Adelaide lies on a plain on Australia's southern coast. The River Torrens flows through Adelaide. The city extends inland from the Gulf of St. Vincent, an inlet off the Indian Ocean. To the west rises a mountain range called the Adelaide Hills, which are part of the south Mount Lofty Ranges.... Read More
Archive for the Category » Australian Cities «
Alice Springs is a town in the Northern Territory of Australia. It lies on the banks of the normally dry Todd River. Alice Springs is the supply depot for cattle stations, mines, and Aboriginal settlements in the central area of Australia. The town is also a popular tourist resort. From the town, tourists travel to visit Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), Mount Connor, and Mount Olga.... Read More
Kalgoorlie is a town in Western Australia. It is the center of Australia's chief gold and nickel fields. The town is in a dry region about 370 miles (600 kilometers) east of Perth. Service industries connected with mining employ many local workers. Many people also work in gold mines and a nickel smelter near the town. A smelter melts metal ore to get the metal from it.... Read More
Perth is the state capital and business center of Western Australia. Perth lies in the southwest corner of the state, on a plain between the Indian Ocean to the west and the hills of the Darling Scarp to the east. Perth is one of Australia's largest and most beautiful cities. It has tree-lined streets and good surfing beaches. The Swan River flows through the city.... Read More
Sydney is Australia's oldest and largest city. It lies on a lovely, deep harbor on the southeastern coast. Sydney is Australia's busiest seaport and the nation's business center. It is known for its beautiful Opera House. The building has huge white concrete shells that look like billowing sails.... Read More


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Congratulations on your second term Mr President!
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Join Date: May 2009
Location: NJ
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A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, which is always followed by a dictatorship.
That is just the "tyranny of majority". It is a concept almost all proponents of classical liberalism feared. It is why America was created as a constitutional republic. Pretty much all of the founding fathers thought negatively of democracy. Too bad we have degenerated into a representative democracy.
Pure democracy is inherently evil. It is probably the worst form of government out there because it creates illusions of justice. When society or the majority accepts something it is very hard for the average human to see it is truly wrong. For example. 10 people are in a room. 6 men and 4 women. The men vote that rape should be legal. They accept it and are happy with their decision. They even rationalize its for the greater good since it makes more people happy. If on the other hand 10 people are in a room and one is the monarch the moment he starts to rape, kill or steal people will start to question his actions and rebel.
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Categories > Anime/Manga > Viewfinder > Nostalgia
Chapter 50 Reviews
When Akihito just can't figure Asami out, he grows tired of the status quo and slips away from Asami's grasp.
"I will," Takaba smiled meekly, "I'll see you tomorrow then." He turned toward the apartment only to be stopped by Gyles' voice calling out his name.
Gyles paused, admiring Takaba's slender form, then smiled back, just tell him you love him… "Goodnight."
Takaba shivered as he waited in the elevator, watching the red number count up until it hit the fourth floor, and the door slid open slowly. It was absolutely freezing outside. He could almost feel his bones and his marrow constricting and crystallizing from the still, icy air, and all he wanted was to get inside. Although… his apartment was probably just as cold since he hadn't left the heater on.
Takaba fumbled with the keys, his fingers resistant to his commands in their numb state, the tips of his flesh tingling as they touched the warm metal key, which had been hidden deep in his pocket. He finally it into the hole and turned the lock with a faint click.
The first thing he did, even before turning on the light, was rush to where he knew the temp control was and adjust it so that he wouldn't be cryogenically frozen or otherwise an ice block when he woke up (or didn't wake up) the next morning. They would probably have to get an ice pick and chisel, maybe a blow dryer, to crack and melt the layer of ice he would accumulate if he slept in the cold like this.
Then he took off his shoes and carefully arranged them near the door. Two years ago, he would have just tossed them aside, kicked them into a dusty corner. He hung the damp coat on the stand near the door and looked around into the quasi darkness, the light from the yellow street lamps filtering in through the cracks of his navy curtains, before flicking on the light.
It was a rather small place, a bit dark for his taste (the old European apartments had a knack for having little to no windows), but it suited his needs well enough: a kitchen, a living room, two bedrooms and one bathroom. It was certainly more spacious than in Tokyo. He had furnished it with what little budget he had back when he first moved, adding different items one by one with time, filling in the gaps.
The process was… fulfilling. He remembered throwing out the furniture in Tokyo, how much it had ached when he watched them driven off to the landfills. Watching the empty corners of his new apartment slowly being occupied by something tangible… By fleeing from Tokyo, he had torn apart a puzzle set, and as he filled the gaps of his new residence, he was slowly starting to see the image of the puzzle, something he had forgotten long ago, piece by piece. The furnishing of his new apartment was a sort of cure, a haphazard antidote….but not quite…
Not quite…
Three black leather recliners sat around a coffee table that looked more like a huge black cube sitting in the middle of the living room. It was supposed to be "contemporary." The flat screen TV and DVD player were purchased only about a year ago; Gyles and Takaba watched a DVD together for the first time the day they were delivered.
Random photographs were hung on empty white walls, mostly ones he took himself and was unwilling to exhibit but liked. Exhibitions meant he lost them forever as they were almost always auctioned or sold off. Perhaps one day he would return to the negatives and bring to life those photos again.
As for the darkroom, anyone entering it would see most of the wall occupied with shelves and dozens and dozens of albums of negatives. He had collected his photos for months and mailed them to London before his departure, boxes of them. There were several desks and sink-like apparatus where he could wash the developed pictures. In addition, there were two metal cabinets where he stored his equipments and materials. All in all, a mundane room, just like all the rest.
The kitchen had a small table with two chairs on either side along with a medium sized fridge that was usually half empty. It was probably the most unused quarter in the apartment. He bought a three person meal set with spoons and forks just in case, but he used it so little that he often had to wash the plates before hand to make sure the food wouldn't be set on dusty plates. The pantry was empty save for a box of cereals past its expiration date but hadn't even been opened yet.
His bedroom was just as scantily clad. The bed was a decent, comfortable size for two people if neither moved too much during sleep. Like his curtains, it came with a dark navy color theme to it. Navy sheets, navy comforter, navy pillowcase, etc. etc. The work desk where his laptop and external hard drives were stacked was positioned against a wall, near the window where sunlight could illuminate the surface. It had several drawers beneath it, and the bottom most drawer had a false bottom.
It was in that secret compartment that Takaba kept proof of his past existence: his real passport, his real identification card, two pictures, one with his family, another with his two best friends. His friends… I wonder if they remember me even… His parents didn't know where he was either. If he died now, woke up cold and lifeless the next morning, would he be buried in Japan or be cremated here, an unclaimed body diminished to ashes. His secret would be revealed then, wouldn't it?
And the gun.
Next to the desk, there was a bookshelf containing books on… photography. Not much surprise there. There was a night stand to one side of the bed with a lamp that was fitted with a light bulb needing to be replaced; he had bought the wrong watt two weeks ago and it was just too dim.
His closet was half empty, a reflection of his inner state. His general style and taste hadn't changed much over the course of two years. If anything, they were even more casual and geared toward comfort and movement; his travels had taught him that. He still wore his t-shirts, his vintage jeans, and his hooded sweatshirts with pouches where he hid his hands. And most of the time, his feet were clad with a pair of running shoes or something along those lines. Comfort and movement.
But with the first chance he got, he had thrown out all of his old clothes he had brought over from Japan. Dumped them into a large cardboard box, sealed it with masking tape, and out the door they went. It had nothing to do with physical capability. He could physically still wear them.
It was the smell. The scent. The aroma.
The fragrance.
It was like incense, a drug that induced and triggered memories and images he would rather forget. They did say that olfactory memory was the strongest and most enduring of all, didn't they?
There were two sets of suits in the closet, one black and the other dark grey. He had bought them for random occasions and still considered them a waste of money. Putting on these suits, these formal attires only reminded him of him. The cuff links. The buttons. The tie.
The tie especially. Takaba could envision those strong, forceful hands, those expert hands snaking through the silky texture. Working their way past the collar. Tearing apart buttons. Brushing against his stomach. Down. Down. Past the belt, past th-
Shut up.
Takaba lowered himself onto the mattress, settling in motionlessly into the plush comforter. He hadn't been on his bed for almost a week, and it was just… nice to feel the same texture beneath his fingers. But on the other hand, what he had dreaded was true.
There was no heat in this bed.
Just him.
And him alone.
And those… wretched… awful… neon stars on the ceiling. One of them had fallen off while he was gone, near the pillow.
Did you miss me? He picked it up and held over him.
He lay down completely, his back against the bed, an arm over his eyes. Gyles had literally forbidden him to go home alone (upon hearing that Takaba almost got hit by a taxi), giving him two choices. Either he took Takaba home or Takaba would wait to go home with him.
Takaba didn't really want to make Gyles leave the gallery and opted to stay. People didn't realize that they were whispering with the photographer right behind their back. It was a cunning little advantage, and he had been able to pick up a handful of good constructive criticism.
Though he had to admit, some of the comments he had heard had really… hurt. Words like "immature" or "ambiguous" felt like stakes going through the back of his hand, severing the ligament of his index finger that pressed down on the shutter release button. He would have to live with such criticisms however… critiquing was something that every artist had to go through, whether it was music or art or literature, and that was the life he had chosen.
And he had other things on his mind: Mr. Carthen's offer. Gyles had recognized something in Takaba; he had realized that his lover wasn't meant to be sedentary, that if his life in London wasn't fast paced enough, it would drive Akihito insane. He would end up hunting for thrills and danger like before. If Gyles was willing to make amends, to sacrifice six months for the sake of his lover's recovery, then Takaba should at least be understanding and grateful enough to accept Gyles' plans… shouldn't he? It was probably safer, as Mr. Carthen had said, to be touring Europe than war torn zones where he woke up every other day to the sound of explosions.
But he didn't want to leave.
You're growing complacent, Akihito…
Takaba buried his nose into the pillow and inhaled a lungful of Gyles' cologne.
So what if I'm content…but…
Was he losing Asami? Was that private chamber he had reserved for his previous…lover…being taken over by Gyles' overwhelming presence?
And so what if it is…
He propped up his head with his right elbow, letting the injured arm rest against his body. It had begun to heal fairly well, except for a thin puckered line of scab. Another scar to add to his collection. Gyles wasn't too happy about it though. Ironically, the man blamed himself for it.
If Takaba hadn't been so previously preoccupied, and even if he was, Gyles was still the perfect lover that anyone have could asked for. He had unlimited patience for his troubled lover.
How do you put up with me…
Even he grew of his very self sometimes. For someone else to stand beside him with such devotion…
Gentle and forgiving, passionate and compassionate, Takaba couldn't help but melt into Gyles' embrace.
…What should I do…
Gyles watched the Takaba disappear into the complex and waited, waited for the light of the living room to flicker on before finally driving away.
It was necessary.
A little less than a year ago, the boy passed out in the elevator, only to be discovered half frozen at four in the morning by a trio of girls returning from a night of clubbing. They had to call the landlord who recognized the young Asian tenant as his and called a random number from Takaba's cellphone after taking him to the hospital. That number was none other Gyles.
The doctor wasn't quite sure how to diagnose his patient and ran blood tests, CAT scans, ECG to name a few but eventually gave up and called it "exhaustion," which was probably closer to the truth than any of the modern, conventional diseases that pharmaceutical companies liked to make up to boost their profit. Gyles' sister-in-law could testify to that.
The doctor called Takaba "slightly underweight" and "malnourished," asking rather obvious questions like "has he ever been diagnosed with clinical depression prior to the incident?" or "did he experience any trauma in the past few years?" All in all, he showed little genuine concern for Takaba.
The bloody hypocrite.
Gyles was rather anxious to take him home and away from all the medical hodge-podge; anyone with a good eye in their right mind could tell the constant surveillance was doing him more harm than good. And the hospital food… He still felt rather guilty about it, but the night he brought Takaba back to the apartment (Takaba's apartment), they ended up having sex together, giving Takaba little time to recover. He didn't really seem to mind and only teased Gyles for his "healthy maleness."
Gyles grinned at himself, the car stopping at another red light. Healthy maleness…pft, what was he thinking…
Then the cellphone went off.
A bit late to be getting calls…
"Gyles Tennison. Who am I speaking to?"
"Mr. Tennison," the voice had a slightly foreign accent that he couldn't quite put his finger on… "Are you the head of the central London gallery?"
"Yes…" who is this? "I am."
"Perfect. I'm calling on behalf of an anonymous collector."
Anonymous collector…right…
"Does this have to do with the exhibition?"
"It does in fact. The collector wants to purchase the-"
"I'm afraid that's out of the question." Better to cut them off before they got any ideas in their heads.
"Pardon me?"
"The photographs were either sold to private galleries priors to the public exhibition or have been contracted with the auction house already." There was no lie in that "Except for one."
"May I ask which photograph was withdrawn from the auction?"
"'Nostalgia,' the photographer personally requested that it be withheld and only exhibited."
"Very well, it was pleasure, Mr. Tennison." The voice was replaced with the familiar busy tone.
That was quick…and a bit strange…
He frequently received calls from "anonymous buyers." His lover's enigma as a photographer seemed to attract a lot of those. Gyles personally felt a bit reprehensive toward these mystery buyers although he had yet to have any serious experience with any; most of them came out in the end.
When will you come out to the world, Sei?
After the meeting with the TIMES representative, Takaba had come out a bit shaken, if not disturbed, and Gyles was starting to have second thoughts about the proposal. Takaba was probably feeling obliged to accept since Gyles had been the one to arrange it for him in the first place. That wasn't at all what he had intended though; he wanted Takaba to have choice and to choose his own path. Gyles only wanted to be the catalyst for a change that had to occur because Takaba couldn't hide from the world forever.
His "name" was already growing in the genre of fine arts photography and photojournalism. The lot of photos that Takaba had taken in Iraq revealed a certain daredevil attitude that the political and news magazines jumped at. It was a phenomenon rather, like a hidden cult movie that garnered acclaim beneath the table. There was a clean list of private collectors that reserved many of his photographs, and auctions usually started at five hundred pounds if not more, a price that usually went to the older photographs. It could be owed it to some degree the fact that Takaba developed only one, a practice that was gaining him a kind of… infamy and perhaps a tinge of notoriety.
Gyles never told Takaba that he was frequently bombarded with calls, mails, both physical and electronic, or even personal visits, usually after exhibits or auctions, with people demanding to meet the photographer, adamant on unearthing Takaba's identity. There were articles as to who the "question mark man/woman" could be, quote a photographic journal.
If he told Takaba just to what extent he was bearing the grunt of the masquerade, Takaba would probably climb up to the top of the Eiffel tower and declare himself to the world. Well, maybe not to that extreme… but he would certainly either completely plunge himself into a market where his name would be required for publishing means (i.e. magazines, journals) or drop the initials and pick up his name, neither of which Gyles wished for his lover. There was simply too much talent and gift in Takaba to just throw him to the dogs like that.
Gyles swiped his entrance card over the scanner and waited for the gate to the underground parking lot to open. He had purchased the top floor of the flat years ago, much to his parents' dismay; they wanted him to inherit the family residence, a large estate in the countryside.
Whether or not he liked it, he was probably the family black sheep. His younger brother was a lawyer, who moved to Germany with his wife and took up a job as a contract reviewer for a company; the older sister went on to become a doctor, graduating from Cambridge and now head of research in some California facility. Gyles grew up for the most part like his siblings, educated in the "elite" way, polo, horseback riding, golf, tennis, sent to Harrow school, an experience he didn't always enjoy but his competitive nature kept him in the top percent, a part of him that most people didn't quite seem to catch. He graduated from there, rather reluctantly but still with high academic recognition and against his parents' wishes took up university in the US where he pursued a degree in law, obtained it, and somehow (this still amazed him) managed to squeeze in an economics degree.
He worked a year and a half for a firm in London and found that… he wasn't quite fond of the job, a farfetched understatement. Just in time, a colleague from Harrow had inherited a long standing art gallery from his recently deceased grandmother and was having trouble double managing it with his career as an engineer at BP, being sent to the actual sites, sometimes stranded in petroleum oil rigs in the middle of the ocean for months. He called it "stranded" despite the fact that those oil rigs were gigantic and even had supermarkets on them and practically functioned as a community.
Regardless, he asked Gyles to share the management, making him the other proprietor of the gallery. When he died in an accident at a rig site, a storm had blown over and three people from the floating rig had drowned, the friend among the victims. The friend had a half-sister, but she had a particularly bad relationship with her late half-brother and made the ultimately unwise choice of refusing to quote "touch anything that foul man ever dealt with" unquote. Once Gyles had full control over the management, he made some drastic adjustments and the profit nearly doubled. The half-sister came back one time and tried to file lawsuit for "manipulating the economic status of the gallery" or something along those lines, but the court rebuffed her ridiculously outrageous claims. Gyles was still working part time at the company as an advisor from time to time and hence reaping the benefit of the stock shares, but most of his time was devoted to the management of the gallery.
God that feels like so long ago…
The car's vibrating stopped as he turned off the engine and pulled other the key, his chain jiggling then settling quietly into his palm. He grew tired of sitting in the cramped compartment and eventually made his way out, the car honking twice behind him as he locked it from the key chain attached to his keys, the echoes of the honks resonating in the basement, maneuvering around the concrete and steel columns.
Genji stood at attention behind Asami, who was looking out into the same London scene, except darker, and in Asami's opinion, grimmer. He could still see the snow, but it looked jaundiced, bathed in the yellow glare of the street lamps. The edifices that had looked so aesthetic were now jagged blobs of rectangles and geometric shapes with eerie silhouettes.
He held a glass of scotch in his hands, his second glass. Not that it really mattered to Asami with his tolerance.
"Did you find out who the gallery owner was?"
"Yes, sir."
"Gyles Tennison, a lawyer."
"You contacted him, correct?"
"Yes, sir."
"Unfortunately, the photographs have either been purchased or are already scheduled for auction. All except one, sir."
Asami's muscles, which had been so carefully arranged, suddenly tensed.
"Which one?" The intensity.
"Which one's not being sold?" Voice was edged with a blade, a rough, jagged, serrated blade. Like the teeth of a saw. It was…intriguing. The edge was different. Not icy and razor like, but hot and jagged, crooked.
"Mr. Tennison called it 'Nostalgia,' sir."
Glass shattered on the marble floor, barbed and jagged shards of crystal thrown down like die, scattering light on the warped marble. It was as if the amber liquid had detonated in Asami's hands, as now it pooled and spread like a quiet stain, marking its territory with converging pools of liquor.
Genji winced, the shrill sound piercing his ears; he had been with Asami for a year and a half now, and this was probably the only time Asami had let something other than his cool, frigid exterior show. He couldn't understand why his boss was obsessing over a photography exhibit. He had seen some of them, and admittedly they were extraordinary even to the untrained eye, but they didn't seem like something that would leave Asami-sama so pressed.
"Tell him I'm willing to pay a hundred thousand pounds for the last picture on the condition that the photographer deliver the work. Leave my name out of this, is that understood?"
"Yes, sir."
Asami was silent for a moment, his back still turned to Genji. "Now get out."
Genji bowed slightly as he hurried out. He was more than glad to; the atmosphere was asphyxiating him. He had heard a quiet rumor among the subordinates that Asami had lost a lover two or three years ago, someone that he became emotionally involved with. It was hard to believe, Asami letting himself be carried away like that.
So Akihito…it is you, isn't it…
He felt a bit of... hope and pride that Akihito had withheld the photograph. It meant…it meant that he still had a chance with the boy. It meant that Akihito was unwilling to let go of a memory of his past lover, that it was held too many connotations, nuances, to hold a monetary value. The photograph transcended that. Because it was Asami.
And because he was Akihito.
Have I gotten anywhere…
He glanced down at the pool of amber at his feet. It had stopped spreading.
Gyles was in the living room, catching up on a bit of news when his cellphone went off again. It wasn't Takaba.
What now…
"Gyles Tennison, who am I speaking to?"
"Mr. Tennison, I'm terribly sorry to call you at this late hour, but we talked about two hours about the exhibition."
"I've already went over this. This is non-negotiable."
"It's about the last photograph."
Nostalgia…"Which isn't for sale."
"The collector is willing to offer a hundred thousand on the condition that the photographer delivers the photograph."
What?! "Are you really referring to 'Nostalgia'?"
"Yes, of course."
Why would anyone offer so much on the first request… "I'm afraid for the safety and privacy of the photographer-"
"Mr. Tennison, the collector has assured that the safety and privacy of the photographer will be completely respected. He simply wishes to speak with the artist who took the photographs."
"I'll have to discuss this with the photographer directly regarding this matter."
"Very well, we will contact you tomorrow afternoon then."
"I'll be expecting."
It was clear that the other party wasn't willing to give out any names. Gyles closed the phone and held it in his hand. I was inexplicable that anyone should offer such a huge sum of money for one photograph. This wasn't something from the fifties or earlier; modern photography rarely exceeded four digits, five at best. Something ominous was rising, he could feel it from the base of his cut.
Takaba sat quietly in the back of the taxi. It was the only way to get to the gallery at three o'clock in the morning for him. To be honest, he was exhausted, trying to call sleep that didn't and wouldn't come, and the pills. He couldn't bring himself to take them after a week without. So for about five hours, he looked up at the stars on his ceiling doing absolutely nothing except thinking. About everything and nothing all at once. He thought about Tokyo, his past life. Then about London, his current façade. And went back. And forth. And back. And forth. Until he felt he'd rip his hair and finally got dressed again and headed out alone into the night, bumping into the same trio of girls that discovered him about a year ago, passed out in the elevator.
His apartment was a bit of a walk from the nearest metro station, which was closed for night maintenance anyway, so he had had to walk to a nearby area where there were pubs and bars open. That was about half an hour of walking in the snow, which had his hair nearly wet and his clothes damp.
"You can drop me off here." He told the taxi driver, who glanced back and pulled up in front of the gallery. The only person there was the night guard, a young fellow a few years younger than Takaba. From the outside though, the gallery looked dark and abandoned.
"Are you sure? Didn't you want to go a bit further to the-"
"No, no. This is fine." Then he added, "I'm exactly where I want to be." The driver shrugged as Takaba counted the money and handed it to him, "This is a bit too much, young man."
"Keep the change, it's late out," Takaba ducked out into the cold and closed the door. He pulled his coat tighter around him, puffs of air escaping his lips as he went around the side of the gallery through the side door, where the sentinel wouldn't spot him come in.
He had the keys of course. It was among the four keys he had: his apartment key, the mailbox key, Gyles' apartment key, and the gallery side door key. It was broad and flat with odd, rectangular shaped teeth. He slid the key in where the key pad lit up, added for security reasons with codes that even the sentinel didn't know. With his hand trembling from the cold, Takaba managed to type in the four digit number and the lock clicked, inviting him.
The back hallway leading into Gyles' office was empty and desolate, Takaba being extremely careful so that the wet, rubber soles of his shoes wouldn't make squeaky noises against the slick floor. This was the first time he had been here at night, and the mood was entirely different. Shadows were still and dead, the ventilation hummed with a different timbre. The hushed voices of people no longer echoed back and forth from the high ceiling. The lighting on the photographs was no longer lit, and every image was blurred into the darkness, lit only by the faint moonlight that crept in from the spaced out sky lights on the ceiling. When the clouds passed over the moon, then even that meager source of light was destroyed, leaving Takaba treading softly in the black labyrinth hall to where 'Nostalgia' was, and it didn't take long to find.
He knew exactly where it was.
The floor and the wall felt raw and frigid even through the layers of clothes as he sat down quietly, leaning back so that he could face the photograph. In the quasi darkness, Asami was even farther away. His back was broader and his stance more domineering, militant almost. He stood, undaunted by the world around him.
If I went back now, Asami…would you take me again…
The soft light cast on the photograph went black again, and Takaba fell asleep, holding his knees to his chest, gazing up at the photographer a lover that won't look back.
The night guard had seen Takaba come out of the taxi and walk around to the side entrance. He knew there was no malevolence in him, coming out at three in the morning to the gallery. He didn't really know who the man was, but on the few occasions that he saw him, it was with Mr. Tennison, his employer, and there was a silent acknowledgement between the two, a sense of trust that ran deep beyond the superficial. Indeed, the young Asian man was striking, his body, his face, the air about him was graceful and somehow crude at the same time.
He had had suspicions as to what kind of relationship the two had and his questions were cleared up one evening when he was checking in for his night shift. He had been wanting to ask Mr. Tennison something and was heading into the office when he heard some noise from office. Curious, he peeked through the slightly open crack to see the two lost in a kiss, their lips locked in passion, lost to the world around them. He forgot then what he wanted to asked and slipped out, never uttering a word of it to anyone.
So when he saw his employer's lover walk around to the side door, he thought better of it and stayed where he was. The man obviously had a reason for being there, and if he went through the side door instead of simply asking the guard to open it, then he probably wanted privacy in the moment.
He waited then, for the man to come out and leave, but no one did. He waited for twenty minutes, then thirty, then forty, forty-five, fifty, fifty-five, and an hour. It was probably cold inside the exhibition hall, and the night guard was going worried.
Sure enough, there he was, crouched against a wall, asleep, bathed in the little bit of sunlight.
Do I wake him up or what?
He knew Mr. Tennison's phone number though. Better call the man. Tell him his lover's sleeping in the gallery.
At four in the morning, Gyles' phone went of again, drawing him out from less than peaceful slumber. He groaned, flipping on the lamp, which temporarily blinded him, then grabbed the phone. If it was that collector again…
"What…" his voice was a dry croak, dragging on lethargically.
"Mr. Tennison, this is the night guard at the gallery and-"
Gyles bolted up, suddenly called to attention.
"Is there a problem?"
"Do you know that young Asian man who visits the gallery frequently?"
Oh God…Sei…
"I do."
"He's here, Mr. Tennison."
Jesus Christ…
"I'll be there in half an hour. How is he?" Gyles stood up, heading towards the closet in his boxers. He yanked a nearly folded pair of jeans from the shelves and shook it open.
"He's sleeping, sir."
"Don't wake him up. Just wait."
"Yes, sir." He closed the phone and slid up the jeans the rest of the way, zipping it up and buttoning the end. His car keys were also on the night stand; he shoved it into his pocket along with the cellphone and took the jacket that had been hung over the back of a chair.
Sei…what now…


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