text:
Buffett bashes investing 'casino game'
The famed investor says the shift from sound investments to outright trading is muddling the long-term market.
Don't let all of that hanging out with Jay-Z fool you: Warren Buffett can get as curmudgeonly as any other less well-off 82-year-old out there.
The Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A) head doesn't refrain from grabbing the ear of the nearest news outlet when something's troubling him, and last week it was all those hedge fund kids on Wall Street focusing on trading rather than investing. During a perfectly cordial lunch with New York Times columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin in midtown Manhattan, Buffett bemoaned the state of a market so liquid that he was able to pick up a 10% stake in IBM in six to eight months.
"The idea that people look at their holdings in such a way that that kind of volume exists means that to a great extent, it's a casino game," Buffett told Sorkin.
The last time Buffett decided he felt strongly about something, he used the Times' op-ed page the Monday after Thanksgiving to shout down anti-tax activist Grover Norquist and call for increased, multi-pronged taxes on the wealthy. He also suggested that newly re-elected President Barack Obama's "Buffett Rule" for taxing the rich wasn't nearly as strong as he'd like for a rule with his name on it.
This time, it's Sorkin's own fault for getting Buffett's blood up. Buffett only swung into town from Omaha to talk up "Tap Dancing to Work," a new book about his life by Carol Loomis of Fortune magazine, and to do a spot about it on "The Daily Show." That book already had him feeling a bit nostalgic, but being so close to the action again got him thinking about old-school hedge fund investors like Tiger Management founder Julian Robertson and how far today's crop of profit-chasing, fee-bleeding, quick-flipping hedgies has fallen from that ideal.
"They're not as good as the old ones generally. The field has gotten swamped, so there's so much money playing and people have been able to raise money by just saying 'hedge fund,'" he said. "That was not the case earlier on; you really had to have some performance for some time before people would put money with you. It's a marketing thing."
No, hedge fund guy at the Stone Street Tavern ordering your third Bronx Is Burning bourbon cocktail of the evening, Buffett doesn't know who you are. If your name isn't Seth Klarman, the low-key value investor who runs Boston's Baupost Group, he hasn't heard of you and doesn't care how much you've made. If he did, would he admire you for sweet private equity moves? His answer: "No."
That's not to say he wasn't a whole lot like those young hedge fund folks at one point. The managers shorting stocks now and betting against company shares are using part of a Buffett strategy that he employed while running a hedge-fund-like private partnership in the early '70s. Why did he stop? Because he and his longtime friend and Berkshire vice chairman Charlie Munger have since found easier ways to make money.
"The whole thing about 'longs' is, if you know you're right, you can just keep buying, and the lower it goes, the better you like it, and you can't do that with shorts," he told Sorkin.
That's right. Not only doesn't he not care that you're making loads of expendable cash, but he thinks you're doing it wrong. While we're sure most brokers and traders will get over the disappointment and use a couple of spare hundreds to wipe away their tears, Buffett's larger point is that there's still a lot of game to be played by these folks. It's not the state of hedge fund managers and their bank accounts now, but where they and the pension funds that employ them will stand when they've seen as much as Buffett has.
Maybe Buffett would build a fund as big and as fast as some of his modern contemporaries if he started again today, but right now he's armed with a bit of information the new class of hedge fund investor still doesn't grasp: "Money starts getting self-defeating at a point, too."
More from Money Now
The top 1% pay 34% of the total income taxes. The bottom 50% pay 3% , the bottom 75% pay 12%. But you dumb dems think you're the ones carrying the load.
Grow dependency , grow the democrat base. Welfare has a been a complete failure on the war on poverty but its been a boom to the democrat base.
Warren Buffet (The Oracle of Omaha) publicly says what needs to be done. He says the rich need to pay more, he says he pays a lower tax than his secretary, he tells about the tax loop-holes he uses and if the government doesn't close them he wil continue to use them, he even once said that the price ofhis stock was overvalued and wasn't worth buying (what other CEO could get away with doing that), he even once went to get change for a quarter when public calls were a dime because he didn't want to waste the other fifteen cents. Warren Buffet is TELLING the lawmakers what needs to be done but all the politicians are worried about are their jobs, fundraising for their next re-election run and not angering their constituents. The problems the politicians create through non-action are passed down to the next generation to be dealt with after they are comfortably retired with their spoils of war (politics).
Mabye a few more facts would help us all. How about each new bill comes with an expected cost to the tax payer with it. It could come with 2 numbers. The first would be with the current tax system and the second would be with the proposed increase. My guess most people would start learning that these new programs are too expensive no matter what the tax structure is.
Buffett has played by the rules he paid for via lobbists so I guess it's fair under those rules but as for the We the Peoples rules he cheated the people so the people should be very mad at this guy and when the collapse hits should be found and tried by the people...just saying...you think that is why many rich people are leaving the United States.
Mr. Buffett is a hypocrite. First, if he thinks his taxes should be higher he should be writing a check at the end of the year to the US Treasury to help pay down the debt. The check should be for what he considers his "fair share." Second, and it's somehwat related to the first, he gives his money to various organizations rather than the government. He is acknowledging the fact that he can better invest in worthwhile causes better than what the government does with money.
It's time Mr' Buffett stop talking and starts wrting those checks for his "fair share" to the US Treausry if he thinks he's not paying enough.
Anyone that thinks Obama, or Warren Buffet has some kind of altruistic approach to fiscal/tax policy is in denial. Just today another 159 pages of explanation for taxing earning on financial gains to fund Obmacare was released. Keep warching your IRA and 401K statements, then tell me how the mddlr class is being spared this costly burden. Also, the $500 billion cuts in medicare is for establishing the 13 new govt agencies to administer healthcare-not for healthcare. It is estimated these agencies will have 113,000 new government employees. Who will pay for that? Thats aside from the thousands of additional IRS required to enforce the mandates With their tax accountants and lawyers, the 2% will not pay for this.
Copyright © 2014 Microsoft. All rights reserved.
Fundamental company data and historical chart data provided by Morningstar Inc. Real-time index quotes and delayed quotes supplied by Morningstar Inc. Quotes delayed by up to 15 minutes, except where indicated otherwise. Fund summary, fund performance and dividend data provided by Morningstar Inc. Analyst recommendations provided by Zacks Investment Research. StockScouter data provided by Verus Analytics. IPO data provided by Hoover's Inc. Index membership data provided by Morningstar Inc.
[BRIEFING.COM] The major averages have not wasted any time in rebounding from their opening lows. The S&P 500, which started with an eight-point loss, has already recovered all but two points help from influential sectors like energy (+0.4%), financials (+0.1%), and technology (+0.1%).
On the flip side, consumer discretionary (-0.1%), industrials (-0.3%), and health care (-0.4%) remain weak.
The performance of the six sectors is likely to influence the direction of the ... More
More Market News
New study finds members of this global elite are stashing an average $600 million each in cash -- 10 times more than a year ago.
- Shared
- Commented
- Viewed
- Video: Easy DIY smoked meats at home
A charcuterie master shares his process for cold-smoking meat at home.
- Jetpacks about to go mainstream
- Weird things covered by home insurance
- Bing: 70 percent of adults report 'digital eye strain'


text:
- Home
- About
- This Issue
- Subscribe
- Blogs
- Archive
- Print
- Mandala for 2014
- Mandala for 2013
- Mandala for 2012
- Mandala for 2011
- Mandala for 2010
- Mandala for 2009
- Mandala for 2008
- Mandala for 2007
- Mandala for 2006
- Mandala for 2005
- Mandala for 2004
- Mandala for 2003
- Mandala for 2002
- Mandala for 2001
- Mandala for 2000
- Older Archives
- eZine
- Mandala eZine December 2011
- Mandala eZine August 2011
- Mandala eZine May 2011
- Mandala eZine February 2011
- Mandala eZine December 2010
- Mandala eZine August 2010
- Mandala eZine May 2010
- Mandala eZine February 2010
- Mandala eZine December 2009
- Mandala eZine August 2009
- Mandala eZine May 2009
- Mandala eZine February 2009
- Mandala eZine December 2008
- Print
- Advertise
Western Monks and Nuns: Taking Care of Our Own Reality
Lama Yeshe gave advice to his 100 monks and nuns in Dharamsala, India in 1982, at the first Enlightened Experience Celebration. Nalanda, the first IMI monastery outside the East, was established in France later that year. Here is an excerpt.
We are very fortunate in that we are trying to live purely according to Lord Buddha's vinaya rules. Very rarely does anyone do this, and it should give us reason to be happy and proud to be among the few who do.
Before going on, I'd like to mention why I have called our FPMT Sangha organization the International Mahayana Institute. Some people have questioned my doing so, but the name has significance: our monks and nuns come from all over the world, so we are truly an international body; we follow the Mahayana Buddhist tradition; and since we are an educational phenomenon, I think it appropriate to designate this organization an institute.
Some people question the necessity of forming an organization. Why not simply go to the mountains and lead ascetic lives like Milarepa did? I can answer that with another question: without organization, how could we have held this Dharma festival? Even two people living together need to be organized. You can't reject organization; it is necessary in every aspect of life.
Also, I felt that, according to the vinaya rules, it was my responsibility to create this institute. Its members began by studying the lam-rim teachings. From this they gained an understanding of the nature of samsara and understood that the best way to practice Dharma was to develop renunciation. Based on this experience they were enthusiastic to be ordained and I gave them permission.
Now, it's very easy for me to ordain someone. "Blah, blah, blah," and it's all over in an hour. But ordaining someone is not simply a one hour job. Lord Buddha said that you have to take care of the Sangha you ordain. So I asked myself, "How can I take care of my Western Sangha?" I'm a simple Himalayan monk who has no worldly experience and has never even managed a Tibetan monastery. The most I ever did as a student was to serve and cook for my teacher. What were my qualifications for taking care of a hundred Western monks and nuns?
Thus, I came to the conclusion that if I were to create a Sangha community organization, its members would help each other. We need some security. When Westerners become Tibetan monks and nuns they become outcasts, accepted by neither Tibetan society nor the West. We voluntarily put ourselves into this situation; it is up to us to create our own new reality. Therefore, in 1974, I formed the International Mahayana Institute, with about twenty members. Since that time we have added about five or ten a year.
Originally we were based at Kopan Monastery, near Kathmandu, and were quite successful in studying philosophy, learning certain rituals and developing a unique monastic life. However, after some time, the Nepalese government changed the visa rules and it became too expensive for most of the monks and nuns to stay there. Anyway, they were Westerners, not Nepalis, so it would have been ridiculous for them to think of spending the rest of their lives in Nepal. I mean, it was wonderful that they had renounced the comfort of this life, but we had to find another place. Unfortunately, it took us a long time to do so. The West is not easy; you need a lot of money to get things done.
Finally, a devoted student offered us a place in France, and Nalanda Monastery came into being. I am so happy about this. We now have the opportunity of living a monastic life and taking care of each other in the West.
Even though we have developed a certain degree of renunciation, we still have our problems; we're not yet arhats or buddhas. We need to take care of each other emotionally. It is difficult for lay people to understand why Sangha get emotionally upset: "They've renounced samsara, what are they crying for?" Monks and nuns understand. Yesterday you were okay; today you're crying a bit; tomorrow it will have cleared up. Monks and nuns know how to be warm to one another.
There's a big difference between lay people and the ordained; different lifestyles, different ways of thinking, different responsibilities. Also, new monks and nuns can't appreciate how hard the older ones worked to get the means of living and to create retreat and teaching facilities. At the beginning there were just a few, and those who had some income shared it with others. I saw this myself and it made me very happy. As the numbers grew, there wasn't enough to go round, but still, we did the best we could. Now there's a bit of a split between the haves and the have nots, but I hope that once we get Nalanda Monastery properly established, everybody will share and help each other.
So this is how I feel. I have a vision of what needs to be done, but I cannot do it alone. I cannot cook every meal, sew every robe. You people need to get organized, work together, help each other. This is very, very necessary. Monks and nuns need to be properly educated; without getting organized, this will not be possible.
This is a short history of the FPMT Sangha organization and how Nalanda Monastery came into being.
There are no comments so far
Leave a Comment
- Mandala for 2014
- Mandala for 2013
- Mandala for 2012
- Mandala for 2011
- Mandala for 2010
- Mandala for 2009
- Mandala for 2008
- Mandala for 2007
- Mandala for 2006
- Mandala for 2005
- Mandala for 2004
- Mandala for 2003
- Mandala for 2002
- Mandala for 2001
- Mandala for 2000
- Older Archives
- Mandala for 1999
- Mandala for 1998
- Mandala for 1997
- Mandala for 1996
- January
- March
- May
- July
- September
- The Benefits of Being Monks and Nuns
- "Seeking joy and freedom from sufferingis the birthright of all beings"
- Geshe Tashi Tsering
- Home Truths: September-October 1996
- Buddhist Monks and Nuns: A Community of White Crows
- Ordination, Who? Me?
- With Vows, You Don't Do The Ordinary
- Western Monks and Nuns: Taking Care of Our Own Reality
- IMI Communities: Nalanda is Reborn
- The Passing Scene: September-October 1996
- Chenrezig Nuns: Harmoniously Growing
- Taiwanese Sangha
- A Monastery to Last until Maitreya Comes
- Italian Monks and Nuns in 'Precarious Equilibrium'
- Tibetan Geshe Offers Money to Help Western Sangha
- Lama Osel's News
- A Longing to Change
- November
- Mandala for 1995
- Mandala for 1992
- Mandala for 1990
- Mandala for 1989
- Mandala for 1988
- Mandala for 1987
- Mandala for 1984
- Mandala for 1983
Subscribe to our Feed
Tag cloud
Contact Us
Mandala Publications
1632 SE 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97214-4702
Office Telephone: (503) 808-1588
Toll free [US only]: (866) 808-3302
Fax: (503) 232-0557
About Mandala Publications
Mandala Publications is the official publication of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), an international charitable organization founded by two Tibetan Buddhist masters, Lama Thubten Yeshe (1935-1984) and Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche. FPMT is a vibrant international community, with a network of 160 affiliate centers, projects and services, and members in more than 30 countries.
Mandala print magazine is published in January, April, July and October. Mandala is available via the Friends of FPMT program.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Lil Jon
Watch 'Turn Down for Hutt,' the 'Turn Down for What' Parody We Always Needed
These are the drops you're looking for.
Lil Jon Says 'Bend Ova' Lyrics Come from Watching YouTube, Wants to Host Game Shows
Bouncing yoga balls isn't Jon's only interest. He also admitted his plans are to get more time on TV.
Watch the '50 Shades of Grey' Trailer: the 'Turn Down for What' Edition
Beyonce may be the unexpected star of the first, but…
Stormtroopers Dancing To Turn Down For What!? [VIDEO]
Day officially MADE!
The Lonely Island SNL Digital Short: 'WHEN WILL THE BASS DROP?'
Is Andy Samburg the best EDM DJ ever?
Pitbull, Ludacris Stop By for Remix of 'Turn Down for What': Listen
Rapper Lil Jon's reinvention as an EDM kingpin rolls on, as his DJ Snake's party anthem "Turn Down for What," on which the rapper is widely featured, has been given the remix treatment for the third time, this time featuring appearances from Ludacris and the seemingly ubiquitous Pitbull.
DJ Snake/Lil Jon's 'Turn Down For What' Music Video Is The Weirdest Thing Ever
DJ Snake and Lil Jon dropped the music video for their single 'Turn Down For What' last week, and it could possibly be the strangest thing we've ever seen.
New Music From Canada (And It's Actually Pretty Good)
(Sorry, this song is so new I couldn't find a picture of the artist so I instead chose to make a broad generalization about the country of Canada by putting a totally unrelated hockey photo […]
Will Lil Jon Join Celebrity Apprentice?
TMZ is reporting that rapper/producer Lil Jon is in the cast of Donald Trump's upcoming "Celebrity Apprentice."


text:
Home » Opinion » Editorials
Gatsas' timely reminder: City teacher benefits are the issue
A tight budget this year led to teacher layoffs and increased class sizes. Some upset parents have demanded that the city override the tax-and-spending cap so more money can be raised and spent on hiring teachers. But a great deal of this frustration is based on the myth that the school budget was cut. It was not.
Total city school spending, including money taken from expendable trusts, is up by $1.6 million over last year. General fund spending on pay and benefits is $2.8 million higher than last year.
Also, student enrollment has declined for the past four years. As we noted last summer, since the 2007-08 school year, enrollment has fallen by 4.7 percent and the teaching staff has fallen by 6.6 percent. Yet we are spending millions more on city schools. What are we spending it on? Teacher compensation.
An overly generous contract with the Manchester Education Association guaranteed teacher pay raises of 2.5 percent a year every year since 2010. And the contract's health benefits are way out of line with the private sector. Teachers enjoy $5 copays and no deductibles. They contribute only 7 percent to their health insurance premiums. The private-sector average is 32 percent.
On Wednesday Gatsas renewed his call for teacher compensation concessions. (The teachers' contract expires this summer.) Most city departments, including police and fire, have agreed to benefits concessions that saved money and allowed the city to avoid some layoffs. The city was able to hire new police officers with the savings in that department.
"If we could implement the same split on health care in the school system that we have in other city departments, we could save 16 percent of the school budget," Gatsas said in his annual State of the City address on Wednesday. "That's enough to hire 80 more teachers and reduce class size."
The mayor should make clear that he is open to discussing spending more on city schools - after the Manchester Education Association has agreed to a new contract that includes reasonable benefits and realistic pay adjustments. That has to come first.
- Surprise, surprise: Obamacare funds abortions - 56
- Casino gambles: Hopes dashed all over - 6
- USNH's raw deal: Part deux - 2
- Every vote counts: Here is the proof - 5
- Burning rubber: And public dollars - 0
- Hassan was right: 'Bullying' bill goes too far - 12
- Strategery: A war by any other name - 28
- Freeh dumb: Favoritism in Vt.? - 6
- Public be damned: Litchfield latest example - 2
Trashed lunches: Brownies, broccoli and bucksREADER COMMENTS: 6
- Scots spurn independence, vote to stay in the United Kingdom - 0
- Roger Brown's First and 10: Answers forthcoming - 0
- NHMS chief Gappens is on board with the Chase changes - 0
- Another View -- Ben Rose: How NH's John Stark helped defeat the British at Saratoga - 0
- Celebrating Claremont: A 250th birthday party - 0
- Hampstead's Suess ready for Whelen Modified race - 0
- College Football: Big Green kick off season vs. Cent. Connecticut - 0
- Son says shooting of mom during DEA raid was a mistake - 11
- Londonderry Rotary to host forum next week - 0
Manchester police release photos of men they believe robbed mother, daughters at local Holiday InnREADER COMMENTS: 0
Supporters eager for Hillary's return to NH
Manchester family heartbroken after finding lost kitten was adopted from shelter, family refuses to return it


text:
Adult Female Harris Hawk
Immature Female Gyrsaker Hybrid
Immature Goshawk
Gyrperegrine Hybrid
Harris Hawk
Harris Hawks are quite intelligent compared to other birds of prey. The male has an average weight of 735 gms (634-877) and the females 1,047 gms (913-1,203). Harris Hawks are also able to hunt in pairs. Harris hawks are found from southern USA to Argentina in South America.
Peregrine Falcon
Also called DUCK HAWK (Falco peregrinus), bird of prey of the family Falconidae, which occurs worldwide. Adult peregrines are bluish gray above with underparts white to yellowish with black barring. They are strong and fast. They fly high and dive at tremendous speeds, and killing by impact. The prey includes ducks and shorebirds. There is close to twenty sub species of peregrines world wide. The Peales Peregrine is the largest.
Hybrid Falcons
Due to the advanced techniques of artificial insemination, designer falcons and hawks are being produced by breeders. One of the first hybrids falcons was produced by John Lejeune of Agasiz (
). This particular falcon was a Gyrfalcon crossed with a Prairie falcon known to falconers as a Gyrairie. Presently there is no limit to the crosses of the falconidae. Perhaps the most popular is the GyrPeregrine. This falcon is known to some as the super falcon, combining the level flight speed and size of the Gyrfalcon and the stooping powers of the Peregrine. This hybrid has a huge following in the North American falconry community due mainly to the Middle East's lust for the larger powerful female. Thus the smaller tiercel or male hybrid has become a by-product of breeding females for the Arabs. Depending on the sub-species of peregrine the male hybrids range from 24oz. 32oz. the average is around 27oz. Female Gyrperegrine's weigh between 34oz. to 48oz. flying weights.
Contact us for an estimate
. We are located in Greater Vancouver area in western Canada.
Immature Male Gyrfalcon
Immature Harris x Halans Redtail Hybrid Hawk
75% Gyrsaker


text:
LAS VEGAS -- The former doctor found guilty of murder, patient neglect and other criminal charges will likely spend the rest of his life in prison.
Dipak Desai was sentenced Thursday to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 18 years. He was sentenced on several charges, including second degree murder.
Desai was at the center of the largest hepatitis C outbreak in Las Vegas history. He and a nurse, Ronald Lakeman, at the Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada were found guilty of re-using vials of medicine on multiple patients during colonoscopy procedures – causing the hepatitis outbreak which affected hundreds of patients and claimed the lives of two of Desai's former patients. The murder charge was for the death of Rodolfo Meana in April 2012. A second patient, Michael Washington, died in August 2013. The district attorney could pursue an additional murder charge in that case.
Clark County District Court Judge Valerie Adair said there was an abundance of evidence that Desai had disregard for his patients. She also said a fair sentence must take into account there was more than one victim.
Lakeman was sentenced to 20 years with the possibility of parole after eight years. He had been acquitted on some of the charges, including the murder charge.


text:
Midnightfoxsinger asked me to make this rebloggable.
So here goes:malisteen Asks:My fancast for Cass is actress & martial artist Yanin "Jeeja" Vismitananda. She kind of cemented that position in my mind with her starring role in the 2008 film "Chocolate", where she played an autistic & mostly mute girl who learned to fight from watching kung fu movies and saves her mother from a loan shark by beating up the mobsters who owe her money. She kicked all kinds of ass.daggerpen Said:
… holy
I, uh
… sorry, Kitty, but fancast accepted like woah.
Yeeeesss this is the best fancast now and forever. Chocolate is as close to a Cass movie as we'll probably ever get.


text:
Glooo validates marketing activities, identifies visitors to websites, and analyses website performance.
The Glooo solution features easy to understand reports which include key website data that can be used to improve visitor engagement, in the business development, and marketing processes.
In addition we can help you with online promotions, internet marketing, and basic SEO. Above all, as a Glooo customer you have access to a dedicated team of website professionals for the design, development, analytical reporting, website management, industry updating, hosting, and ongoing support of your website.
All Glooo customers benefit from a continual improvement process, based on customer feedback and our own expertise, ensuring that Glooo managed websites stay ahead of the competition.


text:
Hello Friends!
It's has been a little while. What have we been doing?
Recording a tonne of new songs – 2 of which are near completion. We'll be taking these songs on a little road trip to Los Angeles, in October!!
This will be for the benefit of a few gigs, a few meetings and team bonding. We're ever so excited and we're able to go after the last few months in Melbourne treating us so well and receiving love from all angles. So, thank you!
LA is taking shape over the next few weeks, but so far we'll be playing.
- October 13 – Club Moscow (Boarders), Hollywood, 18+
- October 14 – Kibitz Room (West Hollywood), 21+
- October 22 – The Key Club (West Hollywood), 21+
We'll of course bring you more dates as they come to hand. Most of the time we are not playing you will find us consuming truck loads of burritos across LA.
Before we go, we have two shows in Melbourne (one Northside and one Southside):
- Thursday 16 September: Ding Dong Lounge, w/ Ross de chene Hurricanes & JSB's.
- Thursday 23 September: Revolver Upstairs, w/ Skybombers.


text:
Oh and its wrapped!
Li: only if it has rice black beans seasoned chicken corn salsa and queso in it
xt04: GOOD DAY
- 3 years ago
- 23
- 3 years ago
"In a relationship, its always the one who's the most broken that gets to decide how things will turn out. The control was better in my hands. You can't really be trusted to manage anything, including your own heart."
— Vanity
- 3 years ago
- 4


text:
En Español
Em Português
Other Languages
For decades people have relied on Robert Samuelson to give a confused rendering of economic reality in the pages of the Washington Post. He came through again today in his warnings about an explosion of part-time work.
The centerpiece of Samuelson's concern is a reported, "whopping — 1,115,000 — increase in part-time jobs offset by the 708,000 loss in full-time jobs." Yes, that sounds pretty worrying. The number of full-time jobs is plunging.
The reason that you are hearing this concern raised by Robert Samuelson and not by any of the economists or analysts who commented on the June jobs report is that the latter group understands the volatility of the data in the household survey from which the numbers on part-time work is obtained. It is not uncommon to see sharp month-to-month movements in part-time or full-time work. This is why economists generally ignore the month to month changes in these numbers in the household survey and rely instead on longer period changes, like year over year comparisons.
If Robert Samuelson had written this piece last month, before the release of the June data, he could have been decrying the disappearance of part-time work, since the economy had lost 318,000 part-time jobs in the prior two months. No one can believe that we really saw a sharp drop in part-time in April and May, only to be reversed by a huge surge in June. These numbers are simply errors in the survey. This is why no one raised the monthly movements.
There is an interesting story if we look at the year over year numbers. These numbers do show an increase in the number of part-time work, but all on the voluntary side. Voluntary part-time employment increased by 840,000 from June of 2013 to June of 2014. At the same time involuntary part-time employment fell by 650,000, leaving a net gain of 190,000. Since this was accompanied by a year over year change in total employment of 2,146,000 jobs, it implies a gain in full-time employment of 1,956,000 jobs. Are you scared?
There is actually a story (a good one in my view) of increased part-time work. Many people would prefer to work part-time. They have young children or ill family members they would like to spend time with. Or, they may be older workers who would like to partially retire. Before the passage of the Affordable Care Act these people might have worked full-time because this was the only way they could get health care insurance. However now that they can get insurance on the exchanges, they have the option to work part-time. I don't see the problem with this.
Samuelson does raise the issue that employers are cutting workers hours to less than 30 to avoid the employer sanctions that apply to firms who have more than 50 full-time employees but don't provide health care insurance. The imposition of these sanctions has been delayed, but Helene Jorgensen and I looked at the evidence that such hours reductions were happening in the first half of 2013 when employers thought the sanctions would apply to them. (The Obama administration announced the delay of the sanctions in early July of 2013.) There was none.
Wonkblog let down its readers badly in a piece on Sovaldi, the hepatitis C drug that Gilead Sciences is marketing in the United States at the price of $84,000 per treatment. While the post is headlined with the question in the title, it never makes the obvious point that the drug really doesn't "cost" $84,000.
This is the price that Gilead Sciences charges. It is able to get away with charging the price because the government gave it a patent monopoly, which means that any competitors would be arrested. In India, where the government ruled that the drug did not deserve a patent (it is a combination drug, not a new chemical compound) the generic version is sold for less than $1,000. "How do you pay for a drug that costs $1,000?" is a much simpler question to answer.
Of course if we did not give drug companies patent monopolies we would need an alternative mechanism for financing research, but such alternatives do exist as people know who have heard of the National Institutes of Health, which get $30 billion a year from the government. (The Defense Department provides another example of how research and development can be paid for upfront, rather than recovered through patent monopolies.)
If the research was financed up front we would not have to deal with Wonkblog's $84,000 question. We also wouldn't be giving drug companies an incredible incentive to lie, cheat, and steal in order to maximize the sale of a product on which they have a mark-up in the neighborhood of 10,000 percent.
Note: Typos corrected, thanks to Robert Salzberg.
Feel informed? That's the information you would have gotten from reading the NYT article on the debate over a new transportation bill. In case you cared, this comes to about 1.8 percent of projected federal spending over the next four years or about $240 per person per year. But hey, everyone knows how much $302 billion over the next four years is.
The NYT had a piece on the release of new data showing China's economy was 7.5 percent larger in the second quarter of 2014 than a year ago. While the piece noted that this is a healthy pace, even for China, it told readers:
"Three of the four cylinders of the Chinese economy — exports, private sector construction and retail sales — are sputtering."
It then went on to explain that the government sector is filling the gap with large-scale lending. Readers were then warned that this pattern cannot continue because China would reach the limits of its borrowing capacity.
"Some economists inside and outside the government say China has a choice: slow down lending and accept steady declines in economic growth each year, or continue heavy lending and risk a sharp drop in economic growth someday when the financial system begins to teeter. But nobody knows when that might happen."
If that sounds very scary then it's worth reading through to the last paragraph:
"Retail sales are growing strongly, up 12.4 percent in June from a year earlier, according to the government figures released Wednesday, nearly matching a pace of 12.5 percent in May."
As the article explains, real wages for factory workers are rising at more than an 8.0 percent annual rate. If that pace of real wage growth continues, the country should not have to worry about a lack of demand in the years ahead.
We all know how hard it is to get by on a $5 million a year salary in New York City. Therefore readers should not feel bad about subsidizing the $5.6 million paycheck for Herbert Pardes, the former CEO of New York-Presbyterian Hospital and now the executive vice-chairman of its board of trustees.
The NYT had an interesting piece on Dr. Pardes salary as well as the pay of other top executives at large hospitals. However the piece erred in presenting the issue of these large paychecks as a question of social justice versus market outcomes. As a top executive of a tax exempt institution, Dr. Pardes is being subsidized by taxpayers. If we assume that most of the money that he is soliciting for the hospital is coming from people in the top tax bracket, then taxpayers are paying roughly 40 percent of the money that Dr. Pardes is able to collect. If taxpayers were not providing this subsidy it is likely that he would be raising considerably less money for the hospital, which would make his market value considerably lower.
There is an argument that the public may want to subsidize the provision of health care by New York-Presbyterian Hospital. It is not clear what the argument would be that school teachers and firefighters should be subsidizing the paycheck of a hospital executive earning more than $5 million (16,800 months worth of food stamp benefits) a year.
Economics just flies out the window when the business interests want to get a trade deal passed. The NYT gave us more evidence of this fact in an article on the state of negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).
The article tells us that the TTIP appears to be facing troubles because of the opposition of environmental and consumer groups and the recent spying scandal in Germany. This opposition is presented as sort of tragic given the need for a deal:
"From the European side, new impetus for freer trade came on Monday in the form of new industrial production data indicating that the eurozone's incipient economic recovery might have taken a step backward."
You've got to love this one. Europe just got new data showing that industrial production was weak last month, therefore it needs to push ahead with a trade agreement, that in the most optimistic scenario will not be signed before the end of the year. It will then be phased in over the next decade. Yeah, that's a good way of addressing weak economic data from May.
What's more striking is the mix of a discussion of real trade issues with regulatory issues that business interests are using to obstruct progress on trade. The starting point of the piece is how current trade rules cause Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner to take apart cargo vans in Europe so that they can be shipped to the United States to be reassembled. Of course this is a pointless source of inefficiency and waste. The vans could be sold more cheaply to consumers if they could be shipped as is, without the needless dis-assembly and reassembly. Eliminating the rules that lead to this practice is a great story how an agreement can lead to economic gains.
But the piece goes on to tell us that the negotiators are interested in much more than eliminating trade barriers. According to the article, they want to take away Europeans' right to set their own health, safety, and pollution standards. The article tells readers that the working proposal is that if a product meets standards in either the U.S. or Europe then it can be sold in both places.
This means, for example, that Europeans would have to give up plans to impose energy efficiency requirements on cars or other products, if the U.S. Congress didn't agree to the same standards. Given that a large segment of the Congress claims not to believe in global warming, it is understandable that Europeans would not be inclined to accept this position. The same would apply to regulations of food, drugs, and other consumer products.
The article doesn't mention this fact, but much of the focus of the deal will be on increasing forms of protectionism, specifically copyright and patent protection. These policies will raise prices and slow growth. Also, if the concern was in reducing barriers that raise prices, items like the protectionism that makes doctors' pay twice as high in the United States as in Europe would be front and center. But of course reducing barriers that protect the earnings of highly paid professionals is never on the agenda in trade negotiations.
As a practical matter, if the agenda of TTIP were simply removing actual trade barriers, like the ones that provide the backdrop for this piece, the deal could probably be concluded and approved fairly quickly. However, these trade barriers are a small portion of the TTIP agenda. The weakening of consumer, safety, and enviromental regulations to make them more friendly to corporations is the main point of TTIP. Powerful business interests are happy to hold the real but modest economic gains from freer trade hostage in order to advance their regulatory agenda.
Wow, the pundit class is really worried about the Export-Import Bank reauthorization. Today's big shot comes from NYT columnist Joe Nocera.
Nocera is honest enough to acknowledge that big companies like Boeing and Caterpillar are the main recipients of support. The Export-Import bank supporters have been pushing the line that most loans go to small businesses. This is of course true, but most of the money goes to the Boeings and Caterpillars, and serious people care about the money, not the number of loans going out the bank's door.
Nocera's twist is that real beneficiaries are the customers of the big companies, not the companies:
"First, customers of these big companies get the bulk of the Ex-Im Bank's assistance. ...
"Second, most of the arguments made against the Ex-Im Bank revolve around its help to the big companies, not the small ones. For instance, it is argued that big companies have their own means of helping customers finance deals. That's true, but it's the customers, not the companies, that are pushing for export credit guarantees. A Boeing source told me that it is hearing from customers and potential customers about the fate of the Ex-Im Bank. 'It's a big deal,' my source said, especially in places like Africa, where conventional financing for aircraft is hard to come by."
Okay, this one should get be worth a big burst of laughter from a comedy show laugh track. Imagine that, a "Boeing source" told a New York Times columnist that the Export-Import Bank is really about helping the companies customers. Yeah, how could anyone question that. (This is like when companies oppose pollution regulations because they are worried about their workers' jobs.)
The story here is not very complicated for believers in economics. If there were no subsidies from the Bank, Boeing would have to accept somewhat lower profits on its deals. It would likely make up some, but not all, of the value of the Bank's subsidy. This means that the customers would be looking at slightly higher prices. Life's tough. (Let's get a list of the customers and see if they rank higher than veterans or inner city kids as beneficiaries of the taxpayers largesse.)
In some cases, the higher price will mean that Boeing will lose the deal to a competitor. That's known as capitalism, it happens all the time.
It speaks volumes that at the same time the establishment pundits are getting hysterical over the dire consequences of not reauthorizing the Ex-Im Bank, the WTO issued a ruling against the U.S. over tariffs against Chinese and Indian steel imports. This ruling is likely to cost more U.S. jobs than the shutting of the Ex-Im Bank, but odds are none of the pundits will speak against it. Draw your own conclusions.
Of course the real free trade position is to lower the value of the dollar against other countries' currencies. That is how a trade deficit is supposed to be corrected in a world of floating exchange rates, like the one we are supposed to have. However the dollar does not fall to bring our deficit into balance because many countries, most notably China, buy up hundreds of billions of dollars to keep the dollar over-valued. The over-valued dollar makes our exports expensive (like taking away the subsidy from the Ex-Im Bank) and makes imports cheaper to people in the United States, crowding out domestically produced goods.
In an economy suffering from secular stagnation, we have no market mechanism to replace the $500 billion dollars in demand (3 percent of GDP) lost to the trade deficit. Adding in a multiplier effect, this deficit costs us around $750 billion in annual output or around 6 million jobs. Unlike the Ex-Im Bank, there is real money and real jobs at stake with the value of the dollar. It would be great for Joe Nocera to write about that.
Some folks might think that a newspapers job is to convey information to its readers: not the Washington Post. At least when it comes to budget reporting the Post firmly believes in the frat boy ritual of throwing out really big numbers that will be almost meaningless to virtually all of its readers.
It gave us one such ritualistic piece on Saturday that discussed new budget projections from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Among other things the piece told readers:
"The White House said Friday that the federal budget deficit will fall to $583 billion this year, the smallest deficit of President Obama's tenure and the first to dip below $600 billion since the Great Recession took hold in 2008. ...
"The White House predicts that the nation's finances will deteriorate markedly over the next decade, with deficits rising nearly $600 billion above previous projections. ...
"When Obama took office in 2009, the economy was in free fall and the budget deficit was soaring toward $1.4 trillion, the first of four consecutive trillion-dollar deficits that drove the national debt to the highest level as a percentage of the economy since the end of World War II. ...
"Democrats hailed Friday's White House deficit forecast, which came on the same day as a Treasury Department announcement that the government recorded a surplus of $71 billion for the month of June. ....
"Republicans, meanwhile, noted that the long-term outlook remains gloomy, with the national debt forecast to rise to more than $25 trillion by 2024 if Obama's policies are enacted.
"On Friday, the debt stood at $17.6 trillion."
Feel well informed? The amazing part of this story is that the reporter did not even herself have to wade through the long arduous process of dividing the numbers by GDP to make them somewhat meaningful to readers. This information was actually contained in the blogpost by OMB director Brian Deese to which the piece links.
She could have told readers that the new projections show a deficit of 3.4 percent of GDP for fiscal 2014, which is projected to fall to 3.0 percent of GDP in 2015. The size of the deficit is projected to continue to fall, hitting 2.1 percent of GDP in 2024.
While the Post piece implies that the debt situation is bad news ("remains gloomy) by just giving dollar numbers without any context, in fact it is projected to edge down slightly. The ratio of total debt (including money owed to the Social Security trust fund) to GDP is currently just over 100 percent. The latest OMB numbers project the debt to GDP ratio falls to 94.1 percent of GDP in 2024. In short, for deficit hawks the reality is the opposite of what the Post article asserts.
In addition to its frat boy use of numbers, it is also worth elaborating slightly on the pieces reference to "painful but historic spending cuts." The budget cuts were painful to millions of people who were denied work since the government was reducing demand in a badly depressed economy, therefore leaving more people without jobs. They were also painful to tens of millions of workers who were unable to secure a share of the gains from economic growth in higher wages because the weak labor market left them with little bargaining power.
The cuts probably were not painful to most business owners or highly paid professionals. The former have seen profits hit a record share of GDP, likely in part due to the fact that wages are low. The latter have benefited from being able to hire cheap help, since workers have few choices in a labor market that has been kept weak by budget cuts.
It is worth noting that the burden of the debt is measured by the amount of debt service, not the size of the debt. The latest OMB reports a net interest burden in 2024 of 3.0 percent of GDP. This is slightly less than its early 1990s levels. Thanks to Robert Salzberg for reminding me about this point.
Note: Type corrected, thanks to Rodrigo.
In a Wonkblog post Matt O'Brien discusses central bank efforts to deal with bubbles. His starting point is the decision by the central bank in Sweden to begin raising interest rates in 2010, ostensibly to head off the development of a bubble there.
There are two points worth noting here. First, it is difficult to imagine what the central bankers were drinking in Sweden when they decided to start shooting at bubbles. A bubble that threatens the economy is a bubble that moves the economy. If there is a bubble in Uber stock or the price of hops, there is little consequence to the economy when the bubbles burst.
The crashes of the stock bubble and the housing bubble led to recessions because these bubbles were driving the economy. This was easy to see in the data in both cases. In the first case, the investment share of GDP hit the highest level in more than two decades as people were able to raise billions in IPOs for utterly nonsense dot.coms. Consumption surged to then record shares of income as the stock wealth effect caused spending to surge. This boost to the economy disappeared when the bubble burst.
There was a similar story with the housing bubble. Residential construction hit a record share of GDP, roughly 50 percent above its average over the prior two decades. Consumption surged to an even higher share of income, driven by the housing wealth effect. And, when this bubble burst we got the Great Recession.
There were no obvious distortions in the Swedish economy when its central bank started shooting at bubbles. Its savings rate was relatively high and the country had a huge trade surplus (as opposed to deficits in bubble driven economies like the U.S. and Spain). The bubbles that really matter are not hard to see. Economists like to pretend otherwise since almost all of them missed the last one, but that reflects the competence of economists, not the inherent difficulty in recognizing bubbles.
The other point is that central banks do have many tools other than interest rates to attack bubbles. My favorite is talk.
I know it doesn't sound sophisticated and it's not terribly mathematical, but I suspect it would have a very large impact on the housing market if Janet Yellen were to say that she thought house prices were over-valued and that the Fed would be prepared to take steps to bring prices in line with fundamentals. Note that I am referring to an explicit warning backed up by Fed research, not a mumbled "irrational exuberance" subsequently qualified by incoherent gibberish. I would certainly take such a warning seriously if I was thinking of buying a house.
I know this view is dismissed by economists, but it's hard to see the downside of trying this path. The worst I've heard is that this could damage the Fed's credibility if house prices didn't fall. Given that we have lost many trillions of dollars of output and millions of people have seen their lives ruined from the collapse of the housing bubble and the ensuing recession, the risk of the Fed's credibility seems a small price to pay in such circumstances.
Floyd Norris had an interesting piece noting the incongruity between the relatively strong job growth we saw in the first half of 2014 and the near zero or possibly negative GDP growth for the period. (First quarter growth was -2.9 percent, second quarter growth will be positive, but quite possibly less than 2.9 percent.) While it is easy to explain the drop in first quarter GDP as an anomaly driven by falling inventories and bad weather, it is still difficult to reconcile with a rate of job growth of 230,000 a month.
At least part of this story is likely due to quirks in the data. One prominent quirk that has been overlooked has been the pattern of health care spending. Much has been made of the fact that spending on health care services fell in the first quarter, something we have not seen since the 1960s. While this drop is striking, it is somewhat less so when we look at the fourth quarter data.
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reports that nominal spending on health care services rose at a 7.6 percent annual rate in the fourth quarter of 2013. This is almost twice the average pace for the prior two years. (I use nominal since I think "real" spending is of questionable meaning in health care. If we are given more of a drug that has no beneficial effect or have more unnecessary tests or procedures, real spending will increase. If better research ends this spending, it appears as a reduction in real spending even if this might be associated with better health.)
Taken on their face, the BEA numbers show a big surge in health care spending in the fourth quarter followed by an almost unprecedented reduction in spending in the first quarter. We could believe that this accurately describes what happened in the economy, or alternatively we can believe that the fourth quarter number overstated the actual increase in spending. I would lean toward the latter view. The data are never perfect and by definition, any overstatement in spending growth in one quarter leads to an understatement of growth in the next quarter.
Anyhow, that's my story on health care spending. But the GDP growth data and the jobs data are still seriously out of line.
Dean Baker is co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research in Washington, D.C. He is the author of several books, his latest being The End of Loser Liberalism: Making Markets Progressive. Read more about Dean. Archives
Home | Research Topics | Jobs/Internships | Contact | Log-in
1611 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20009 | 202-293-5380 ***This site best viewed using Mozilla Firefox***


text:
melbourne afternoontea food tea accidentalthievery oops terriblecustomer cafe
Show More Likes
Had some afternoon #tea today. Walked off without paying. #accidentalthievery | #oops #afternoontea #cafe #food #terriblecustomer #melbourne
In my defence I did go back.
Haha good to hear @taniabraukamper! The amount of times I have done that too! I think I get too comfortable after I eat and forget it needs to be paid for lol. But only happened twice! :p
It's so easily done isn't it @seyi_rania 😉
Connect your Instagram account or comment on Facebook
Editor of Fashionising.com. Loves words, takes pictures, travels a lot. Is an accidental tornado of disaster.
Followgram is the most complete web interface to enjoy your Instagram photos. This site uses the API of Instagram but is not certified by Instagram.
Followgram.me v.1.2 (beta) © 2012 IQUII - All rights reserved
Recommended by Instagramers and Instagramers Italia
instagram web viewer
instagram business
Fill the form below to request more information about advertise your business on Followgram.


text:
Review the latest World CAT boat articles, including colour photos, detailed mechanical, safety, comfort, fuel economy, emissions, and luxury information on every World CAT boat for sale, all designed to make it easier for you to choose your next World CAT boat .
Find new and used World CAT boats for sale locally, in your state or anywhere within Australia. Search through our comprehensive range of new and used World CAT boat models to find the new or used World CAT model you are looking for, or keep and up to date with all the latest World CAT boating and marine news and reviews.
Your next World CAT boat purchase could be located in your nearest capital city, including Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, or elsewhere in Australia, boatpoint.com.au has your next World CAT boat located conveniently.
No results were returned.
Connect with us on Facebook.
© carsales.com Limited 1999-2014.


text:
Yeah, yeah, yeah -- we all love and adore our husbands and all that jazz, but I think it's safe to say that most of us would be lying if we said we hadn't ever fantasized about being with a certain celebrity instead. It's totally okay to have celeb crushes, right? Aren't there even husbands and wives who have lists of famous people who they have a hall pass to hook up with if ever given the opportunity? Well, judging from a new poll, it looks as though there are plenty of women who aren't afraid to admit that they've dreamt about doing the dirty with a certain hunky Twilight star.
Because a whopping 64 percent of women said that if they had the choice, they would trade their husbands for Robert Pattinson. Can you blame them? Who wouldn't want to jump all over someone that mysterious and sexy, not to mention the whole vampire thing he's got going on. (C'mon -- you know you think Sparkles is hot.)
Of course, there were some other pretty decent choices for fantasy husbands on the iVillage list too -- including Matt Damon, Ryan Gosling, Ryan Reynolds, Jason Segel, and Jason Momoa.
But honestly, if given those five choices along with Robert Pattinson, I'd probably go for Edward Cullen too. But as far as I'm concerned, there are a few other incredibly desirable Hollywood hunks out there who would've given Rob even stiffer competition had they been part of the poll.
Ben Affleck. With all due respect to my own husband, I'd seriously consider leaving him in a hot minute for Ben Affleck. How dreamy was he in Armageddon? I just can't resist that dude for whatever reason. But I'd only consider it if he gets rid of the fur ball that's currently on top of his head and shaves off his entire beard. I'm not into scruff.
Justin Timberlake. How in the heck did Justin get left out of that poll? He's super hot, plus he can sing and dance like nobody's business. You know what they say about guys who are good dancers. (Wink, wink.) I wouldn't think twice about hooking up with him, would you?
Bradley Cooper. Oh, Bradley. What woman in her right mind wouldn't want to be the gal to make you fall head over heels in love and settle down? Plenty of us would love to jet off to Vegas with you and suffer through a hangover after a night out on the town. It would totally be worth it.
What celebrity would you hypothetically consider leaving your husband for?
Image via Splash
I'm sorry, but I've never seen Robert Pattinson's appeal. I don't find him that good looking. I think my husband is WAY hotter than him. ;-)
Actual adult women were polled? Really? I mean, yes, he's attractive and all....but really?
No thanks, KStew can have him.
Now, if you offer up a free night with Johnny Depp, I'll be at the front of the line. :o)
JOHNNY DEPP! what is wrong with women these days? they wouldnt know a hot guy if one bit them in the ass. I would never leave my husband for johnny depp even if givin the chance anyway because for 1 my husband doesnt fantisize about any woman celebrities(believe me he has found something wrong with everyone I suggested that I thought was pretty) and 2 me and my husband have so much in common and we arent just husband and wife, hes my best friend, I dont think I could have a bond like that with anyone else
I think he is hot as Jacob Jankowski in Water for Elephants, but the funky hair and pasty pale 'woe is me' vampire thing doesnt do it for me.
Hell yes I would leave my husband (sorry Freddie)...


text:
Photo: MSF staff measures a child's height and weight, seeking to determine his level of nutrition. South Sudan 2012 © John Stanmyer/VII Photo
Eyewitnesses to an EmergencyReport from South Sudan
Though it hasn't gotten much attention, an immense refugee emergency continues to unfold in South Sudan. In the young country's Unity and Upper Nile states, roughly 170,000 Sudanese refugees are living in camps that were, for much of the summer, sprawling, muddy tracts of hardship and sickness. The refugees had escaped state-sponsored aerial bombardments in their homelands, but MSF's epidemiological teams documented mortality rates in some of the camps well above, and in some cases double, the World Health Organization's emergency threshold for refugee situations.
MSF, which had been working among the refugees in Yida, in Unity state, and in Upper Nile state's Maban County, rapidly scaled up its response, adding scores of international and national staff , taking on tasks—drilling boreholes for water, for instance—normally outside its purview, and working around huge logistical challenges posed by both South Sudan's war-torn history and the onset of the rainy season.
"It was the most challenging ten weeks of my life. It's a tragedy, and it was devastating to be there. We saw such high mortality, so many people dying. But also, being there and seeing MSF's ability to respond quickly and make changes—to really bring about an improvement in the health and lives of the people in Yida—was really incredible. It was an honor to be there," says MSF nurse John Johnson.
This whole region is a vast wetland of the Nile – beautiful in a way, but a terrible place for a refugee camp.
South Sudan: "What We Are Facing Is An Extremely Serious Situation"
About 100,000 refugees fleeing the fighting in the Sudanese state of Blue Nile have taken refuge in Maban County in South Sudan. In the camp of Batil, home to 34,000 people, malnutrition is increasing. More than 1,000 children have been admitted to Doctors Without Borders' nutritional programs, and the number continues to rise as the humanitarian response struggles to keep up with the needs.
Photo:A child is examined for symptoms of malnutrition at Jamam refugee camp in Upper Nile State.
South Sudan 2012 © Robin Meldrum/MSF
Follow on Twitter
Scaffold theme by Mike Harding.


text:
The graceful graduated blue of this soft-cup bra and panty is a new way to ombré. The elongated triangle bra dips to a low plunge and is crafted from superfine floral lace — very pretty if the straps happen to peek out of a tank or sweater. Soft-cup construction with wide elastic band under the bust for a bit of support. Scalloped lace trim. Adjustable straps. Hook-and-eye closure. Coordinating low-rise panty is lace with a center-back seam for comfort. Polyamide/elastane. By Cosabella. Italy.
A laid-back linen cardigan is the perfect topper to slip on as the temps start to dip, and the deep, sunset-inspired palette seconds that emotion. We love the open silhouette, which takes to sleeveless dresses or jeans with equal ease. A wide band of ribs at the hem adds a hint of sportiness. Long sleeves. Hits below the hip. 100% Italian linen. By Eileen Fisher. Imported.
A prim chiffon collar lends schoolgirl charm to this polished tee — whether you choose solid shades or go for a pop of dots at the collar. Complete with vented cuffs and a single-button closure at the back of the neck, it's a proper topper when tucked into a pencil skirt — or go a bit more relaxed with retro chinos. 3/4 sleeves. Hip length. Cotton/rayon/spandex body with poly chiffon collar and cuffs. Imported.
This open-front cardigan takes inspiration from a gorgeously graphic Aztec pattern. We kept the colors on the quiet side to go with pretty much everything, and we sourced a substantial wool blend with a hint of (slightly shaggy) alpaca, so you could conceivably wear the cardigan as outerwear. Long sleeves. Drapes longer in the front, low-hip length in back. Acrylic/wool/viscose/alpaca. Imported.
Strategic diagonal seaming gives this figure-sculpting skirt an artful, lean line — rather like a modern bandage skirt. Body conscious without being too overt about it, the slim silhouette looks especially modern balanced by a boxy sweater. In all black or a bold, multidirectional stripe that's totally trending. Slim fitting. Elastic waist. Above-knee length. Midweight cotton/modal/spandex. Imported.
A little bit boho, a little bit rock 'n roll. Our kaleidoscopic silk top has a flattering V-neckline that makes a great backdrop for necklaces of any length. The empire waist features a contrast band in front and elastic in back for a feminine, flattering fit. Short dolman sleeves. Tunic length. Silk crêpe de Chine. Imported.
We're fans of faille, the micro-ribbed fabric that gives our vintage-inspired dress great texture and structure. It's a very put-together look whether you go with always-chic black or statement-making red. The fit-and-flare silhouette features ladylike details, including darts at the bust and a bit of elastic at the gathered skirt. An exposed metal zipper in back adds a little zing. Sleeveless. On-seam pockets. Above-knee length. Cotton/poly/spandex. Imported. Runs large. If you are on the smaller end of the size equivalent, please size down.
One of our best-selling silhouettes is new for the season with spot-on polka dots and an improved (less voluminous) fit. The fit-and-flare style skims the bodice, then gathers just below the waist, ready to twirl through days and dinners with a decidedly retro-inspired charm. Scoop neck. Cap sleeves. Above-knee length. Lined skirt. Cotton/rayon/spandex. Imported.
Paintbrush stripes transform a tank with a feminine, rounded hem. Knit from lightweight, textural linen, it's artistic on its own — or layered under a jacket. Sleeveless. Low-hip length. 100% organic linen; we recommend a tank or camisole beneath. By Eileen Fisher. Imported.
A luxurious version of the ubiquitous lounge trend, these silk pants are refined yet still laid back. We dig the pleats at the drawstring waist and the slouchy silhouette. In a nice neutral, perfect to pair with all kinds of nubby naturals. Side-seam pockets. Banded at the cuffs, to blouse a bit or not, as the spirit moves you. 100% silk. By Eileen Fisher. Imported. Inseam: 29 3/4"
Two approaches to texture: we knit a shimmering satin yarn with a cotton tape yarn that looks hand painted. An artistic layer to wear over a tank or under a jacket. Each one is unique. Pair it with jeans, shorts, or ponte knit pants for an artisitic layer. Hits high at the hip. Cotton/viscose; Bluesign® certified. By Eileen Fisher. USA.
Crafted from organic linen with a waxed coating for a little sheen and structure, the moto silhouette shifts into chic gear. With color-blocking at the sleeves and pockets, the jacket is a casual natural with denim or dresses. Asymmetrical closure looks great zipped up or draped open. Long sleeves with snaps at the cuffs. Hip length. 100% linen. By Eileen Fisher. Imported.


text:
Hosting The Spouse's Boss - Advise please?
- cayjohan Dec 18, 2007 02:01 PM
After the end-of-year holidays cease, and the winter doldrums set in, I know the perennial question of hosting my Hub's boss and wife for dinner will come up. Other circumstances have intervened, thankfully, in the past, but this year has a few extra twists and I think I will have to do it, for reasons related to work politics and marital harmony.
I have never hosted a two-couple dinner with the Boss being an element, and am feeling like a newly-wed Laura Petrie ("Oooooh, ROB...!!). Am looking for some sage advice from those who have quaked in their boots and gritted their teeth and gone on. And survived.
My most salient questions (I'm sure I'll think of more later):
- How to deal with a Boss who has extremely non-chowish tastes (per reportage), especially since my Hub (gotta love him) has lauded my cooking to the Boss. Problem: I cook fairly chowish AND ethnic AND, well, with seasonings. How have you managed this?
- How to manage the alcohol consumption (of both Boss and Hub). Cheeriness and conviviality, yes, but intoxication, no. How have you managed this?
- How one deals with the fact that one's setting is "not like other settings;" to wit, we are a household of artists, both trained and untrained (Hmmm...sounds weirdly icky), and our home is not exactly decorated in a Dinner With The Boss fashion. Does one dumb down the more creative home in case it doesn't loo "right," whatever right is? How have you managed this?
- Finally, are any of my paranoid (I admit I am) worries even warranted? Can one be as one is with one's friends: welcoming, convivial, feeling accepted simply by opening one's home and being oneself, or is there a complicated recipe of political maneuvering and host choreography that I did not line up for when they handed out this knowledge?
I would appreciate success stories as well as cautionary tales. Really. Either that, or send tickets for me to be far, far away...
Thank you!
I haven't had to entertain "the boss" in many years (being divorced and all) but I'd concentrate on getting the best quality ingredients, and make the best damn roast chicken (or beef tenderloin), the best potatoes au gratin, and the best (simple) roast veggies ever. Make a terrific chocolate layer cake, some crudites (using the best produce you can find) and a great dip and call it a day. Sometimes you just have to go with the flow and stiffle the your chowish instincts.
As for the alcohol consumption, you have to be a responsible hostess and cut them off. Lock the liquor cabinet or say you just didn't buy enough. Don't worry about your home, if it doesn't look right to Mr. Boss that isn't your problem. (Unless of course, you have *questionable* items on display, and I'm thinking of "The Birdcage" movie that was on the other night!)
Edit: Relax, and have a great time!
re: rednails
Yes. Roast chicken is the first thing I thought of when Cay said boss is "non-chowish." With any dinner where you're hoping to impress someone, or nervous for some reason, it's always best to go with a dish that you could make in your sleep. Now is not the time to try new recipes that you're not sure about. It could turn out great, but the stress involved isn't worth it.
As to the other issues, e.g., how the house is decorated, etc., don't be crazy. It's your house. They're your guests. They don't like it, they don't have to come back.
I can't imagine alcohol consumption being a big problem if you're dealing with normal people. Is there some reason you (addressed to OP) are worried about this? Just pace things and hope that your guests follow your lead.
re: rednails
I love "The Birdcage"! If you serve soup, make sure there aren't questionable poses depicted at the bottom of the soup bowl!
Have you considered making soup? Even non-chowish tastes will enjoy a beautiful, hearty bowl of soup, esp. this time of year. I think rednails hit on the head with her suggestion of traditional dishes with the best ingredients possible.
As for your home, don't change a thing, but make sure it's clean. I think, if anything, cleanliness would be noticed more than decor. Of course, the aforementioned questionable items notwithstanding!
Hi Cay,
Repeat after me... "Your husband's boss is JUST a PERSON". I have been on both ends of the situation (both as the wife of the boss and as the underling) and I do think you are worrying too much!
(- How to deal with a Boss who has extremely non-chowish tastes?)
Stick to the basics and put all sauces on the side. make something like chicken or beef...maybe your husband knows of something he does like...what does he bring/eat for lunch??
( How to manage the alcohol consumption (of both Boss and Hub). Cheeriness and conviviality, yes, but intoxication, no. How have you managed this?)
They're both adults, no? This should be a non-issue. I was recently invited to a girls night out with the women that work for my husband, obviously I had a couple glasses of wine but certaintly wasn't knocking back shots :-)
However, if there is someone in the scenario with a true drinking problem, I would not advise cutting off the boss, this would only make him uncomfortable.
(- How one deals with the fact that one's setting is "not like other settings;" to wit, we are a household of artists, both trained and untrained (Hmmm...sounds weirdly icky), and our home is not exactly decorated in a Dinner With The Boss fashion.)
I would dim the lights and light some candles, if you have a fireplace, use it. Your place will end up looking cozy and maybe bohemian??
(- Finally, are any of my paranoid (I admit I am) worries even warranted? Can one be as one is with one's friends: welcoming, convivial, feeling accepted simply by opening one's home and being oneself, or is there a complicated recipe of political maneuvering and host choreography that I did not line up for when they handed out this knowledge?)
Again, he is just a person, relax and have fun!
re: SweetPea914
All very well said. And if for some reason the alcohol consumption gets out of hand and it's time for him to go home (hopefully this doesn't happen before dinner), turn up the lights, serve coffee, etc.
re: MMRuth
RE: Alcohol - make sure you have snacks/apps while the pre-dinner cocktails are flowing to soak up libations.
The answers you've received, pot roast or roasted chicken, should be right. You probably want something without a rigid timetable. Some $12 to $15 bottles of wine and some beer would be sensible. If the Boss has too much to drink, Mrs. Boss will probably be on him. If your DH gets too much too drink, well, it's his Boss, so why would he. You probably need to stay straight. The best thing you can do is be mannerly.
I really don't want you to serve chicken to the boss unless he is no-meat-eater. I would do a beef burgundy (make the day before to marry flavors) with pasta or noodles, a lovely green salad and crusty bread plus red wine.
If you are worried about alcohol consumption, have a short cocktail hour, your dinner is hearty and have a dessert and COFFEE.
re: rednails
I'm not sure about that. But even if some remains, it would not be enough to create any physical or mental impairment.
re: rednails
Are you talking about serving food to an alcoholic? I'm talking about possible dishes for the OP to serve to Mr. & Mrs. Boss. This thread has taken a real drift...
re: rednails
Even when I was pregnant, and given a crazy list of things not to eat, beef burgundy, chicken marsala, and even penne a la VODKA were all deemed ok by my Dr. If we were talking about true alcoholics, then maybe a dish with alcohol might be an issue. But I think a dish with cooked alcohol should be fine in these circumstances.
re: rednails
I've always wondered about the alcohol cooking off issue. My only point of reference is a very good friend from London who comes to stay with me for a few weeks a couple of time a year. He's been very active in AA for more than fifteen years now. When I first started cooking for him on a regular basis, I asked him about putting white wine in mussels muniere, for instance, and he told me to go ahead, that the alcohol cooks out and only the flavor remains. And this is from a man who will ask me to taste his dessert for him to see if it has any alcohol in it.
re: JoanN
Here is an article from Chow that disputes that.
re: danhole
Thanks for pointing that out to me. Both the article and the comments and links were very interesting. I don't know whether or not my friend knows that, or if it would change his mind if he did. I guess he must go by the assumption that if he can't taste it, it's not a problem for him.
Laurie Colwin's Home Cooking books have wonderful stories about entertaining under less than ideal conditions, by the way, in case you need more moral support!
Re: your "homey, artsy" decor. I know how you feel about that, too. Just make sure it's clean and clutter free - (hide toys, everyday stuff) in the back room. Not only to impress your company, but to alleviate your own self consciousness about your space. Suddenly, when I have guests, the cat's play toys or two day old newspaper suddenly stick out more than before.
Make sure Mr & Mrs Boss have a place to put their coats, and you're set.
The art of home entertaining is kind of SADLY dying, so I'm sure anything you do with warm hospitality will be great.
Have Mr. & Mrs Boss had you over to THEIR home in all the years your hub has worked for him? If not, The Bosses shouldn't be too picky. Is Mrs. Boss bringing wine? Or, are you in charge of it all? If she asks with sincerity, I would make her feel important by letting her choose the wine. Plus, it alleviates you of having to decide what to buy. One less thing for you to stress out about - and you can tell a lot about people by what wine they would bring.
Beef is the best choice. It is a "power" food, and Mr. Boss will surely enjoy it. And, chocolate cake is a great idea. Since it is post-holiday season, stay away from pie.
re: stellamystar
Just out of curiosity, why is chocolate cake a great idea and stay away from pie?
re: yayadave
Because many people eat pie around the holidays, so it would be nice to have something else.
re: stellamystar
OK thanks. I just didn't get it.
I say let the boss, and your husband consume as much alcohol as they wish. You are not their mother, and they are both over 21 I imagine.
As for a menu item, a nice prime rib, roast beef, or roasted pork should do the trick.
Cay! Get a grip! Drink some ice water and calm down. A rib roast, or tenderloin will do well. Forget the chowish ethnic dishes, but do keep the seasonings. Unless he has some type of ulcer or something, flavor isn't going to kill him, unless it's too spicy, so avoid that!
Alcohol? Do you know his habits? Is he a wine or liquor drinker? If it's wine, pour for your guests and yourself but nurse yours for a long time. Same with mixed drinks.
As far as your home - it's YOUR home! Do not be ashamed. I'm sure your DH isn't going to be fired for your decor. To each his own. Our house is a very eclectic mixture of things, art, sculptures, knick knacks, photos, etc. and people always enjoy the atmosphere, even if they live in a "Dinner with the Boss" house ;-)
You are freaking over nothing. Be who you are and that is the best you can be! One time, many years ago, my DH was in a play and the choreographer was a well know broadway master. He had even choreographed the original Broadway West Side Story! So my hubby makes friends with him and tells me that he is bringing him over for supper the next night. Poor guy, living in a hotel room while working on this play, and all that. Well, I am 19, a newlywed, small apartment, no money for a feast, and not into chow type things back then. I freak out, scrounge around and figure I can make a pot of chili (it was in winter) and have some stuff on the side. No wine, beer, liquor, just iced tea. Cleaned up best as I could, and shook in my boots waiting their arrival. It turned out to be one of the loveliest evenings ever! He was charmed by the unpretentious nature of the whole thing, grateful for a home cooked meal and totally awed with the chili. We had tea with dinner and coffee and ice cream afterwards, and listened to some music in the background. But he made us feel like we were the best hosts in the world and we remained friends for a long time afterwards even though he was in NY and we weren't. So, if I could succeed at 19 you will far surpass me!
re: danhole
Mrs Hole, what a great story!
And I agree fully: Cay, its your party. Relax. I'm sure other CHers who have read your posts agree that you're an intellegent, resourceful, and thoughtful person who cooks well and appreciates good food.
The only thing you need to put away is any really obviously potentially offensive art, like Robert Mapplethorpe prints or giant phallus sculptures from Thailand where they worship the penis. I wouldn't leave the video Lesbian Spank 5 and its ilk within eyesight either. But those things are obvious. The rest, you leave. It's you and if they don't like your style, that's fine, they don't have to return again and it relieves you of future hostess duties. But people like seeing different places instead of the same-old cookie cutter type furnishings, even if it's not how they'd do up their own place. Gives them something to look at and talk about.
Place out coffee table books that can make good conversation starters in case there is a lull.
Don't bother with a full bar and don't put too much alcohol out, visibly at once. Just serve what they bring you or whatever you normally serve. If it looks like there is TONS more, people tend to drink more. Make it look like there's a lot more food than booze and people will eat more and drink less. It's a visual trick.
Cook as much ahead as you can so that all you basically have to do is reheat. And turn up the heat, but not too much. People hate going to someone's house when it's dreadful cold. We all have heat bills but for goodness' sake, turn up the heat when guests are coming, it's one day.
As to the non-chowish people, make it easy on yourself. Buy some of those frozen snackies that non-chow people (and some chowers) love like those little pinwheels and pizza rolls and junk like that, fill in with stuff you enjoy. Then there's plenty of choices.
re: rockandroller1
RAR1- haha, your first paragraph truly made me lol. For a few years my roomate was an older man who happened to be gay. he had some "questionable" art on the walls of the living room. Every so often someone would come over and I would totally for get about the art. It was always a "bridcage" like moment!
Regarding the advice to "turn up the heat". I actually open windows/turn down the heat when guests are coming because our place always tends to get warm depending on how much you're using he stove. Maybe that's a NY city thing since we don't have the ventilation and windows that a house does?? Also I tend to do this when there are more than just a few people coming over. Obviously you should do whatever you need to to make sure your guests are comfortable.
re: SweetPea914
It does depend, I was generalizing based on my midwest experience. My place is an apartment and does tend to get too warm for most people. Which works for us, because we definitely like it way, way hotter than most. When we have people over, we always cool the place down as much as possible so it will be more "normal" for people. But everyone I know here has a house, and they are always FREEZING in the winter when I visit. I sympathize, I understand heating costs are astronomical (part of why I live in an apartment, with free heat), I'm just saying when someone is coming to visit, try to make it a normal comfortable temp. Just last week I went to someone's house for a short, small meeting and everyone left their coats on as we sat around the table. That's a sign that it's too cold, hello. :)
re: rockandroller1
No, No - I live in KC - I have been to many folks houses where I am like - is the heat even ON?? So, I just drink more wine hoping to warm up!
re: rockandroller1
Yes you and I do the same thing. I do understand though. My in-laws live in a drafty old farmhouse in Massachusettes and never turn the heat on and I am often cold when others are warm. My husband will turn it up when they're not looking!
re: mexivilla
With the added benefit of looking impressive yet being the easiest, least time consuming entree ever.
a long long time ago there was a commercial on tv with someone (florence henderson?) repeating a very old saying.... "always treat your family like company, and your company like family." I think it was the first time I ever heard my mom agree with anything anyone said in a tv commercial.
A dinner for four in your home is about as intimate an event as you are likely to have with your spouse's boss and their spouse. Make it comfortable for you, and your comfort will telegraph to them.
One thing I forgot to suggest is just ask hubby if there are any allergy issues w/Mr/Mrs Boss. Or call them yourself, and ask. Or at the very least, find out what they DON'T like/CAN'T eat. I'd rather not take the chance that anything I'd serve wouldn't go over very well. Many, many years ago, I had a friend and her boyfriend over for dinner, and I made quiche (well, it was the 70s!) and she didn't eat cheese....she was gracious about it, but ate a lot of salad. I learned my lesson that night the hard way.
re: rednails
This happened one of the first times I had a girlfriend over for dinner. I fixed chicken piccata, one of my favorites. She came in and I told her what we were having and she said, "Is there any way to pick the chicken out of it?" (obviously she'd never eaten it) She ended up eating plain pasta and salad, not very exciting.
re: rockandroller1
I know this issue has been dealt with on other threads but it should help the OP here.
If I'm having a small group over, and I'm doing a plated meal, I always ask (if I don't already know) my guests' dislikes/issues. If I'm hosting a large group, then it's a buffet, I make sure I have lots of choices, and everybody had to fend for themself.
Wow! Pardon the Paris Hilton voice, but I have to say that this is *like* the cheapest therapy *evvvvverrrrr.*
Okay, OP here. As I said I would probably have a few more questions, and I'll get to them. First I'd like to thank you posters who said a few things I needed/wanted to hear:
- as to the quirky decor, loved the comments on "The Birdcage" (one of my all-time favorite movies). Despite our not having the odd phallic sculpture on any given table, we still see through different eyes when hosting more staid personalities (in-laws still haven't forgiven a toy display one year...don't ask, but it wasn't dirty, just political). Check on that. We're good, I'll relax, and let the theme for decor be "creative, but that's just us" and relax (sipping the ice water...)
- as to the food - I so appreciate the jogging of the thought process toward beef. I know from reports that the Boss's favorite food is a cheeseburger. Roast beef and au gratin potatoes is a perfect suggestion, one I would not have thought of in my muddled angst. From there it's easier with sides. No allergies, so not an issue. I'll keep it simple and delicious. Check.
- As to the ambient temperature. Thank you all for alerting me. As "une femme du certain age," I typically keep my house cool. Thanks for the head's up on this. It never occurred to me before. Check.
Now, a clarification: as to alcohol, my concern is not about alcoholism, either chronic or situational. More about work politics. The Hub and Mr. Boss have been professional friends for more than 15 years (predating me....and I have met neither Boss or Mrs. Boss), and have had their share of carousing, of which I have heard. Since the new-world-order in the relationship involves Hub being the heir apparent to Mr. Boss and in line for a significant promotion in the wake of a merger, I wish to mitigate any fallback on the part of Hub and Boss to carousing-days tippling, leading to the inevitable "here's another thing that pisses me off" statements that so frequently occur in such instances. It's not what I serve in the wineglasses or as apperitifs, not whether there's wine in the beef gravy, but the Miss Manners element of how to politely manage the drinking of, most specifically, an individual in charge of one host's future. Is there a really polite way to cut the Boss off? If you've found it, tell me about it. (Hub has been warned, but as you know, these things can take on lives of their own, especially when one doesn't want to diss the Boss.) And no, I have no evidence that this guy is a sloppy drunk; just likes the looseness, and the looseness of others. Therein lies the maneuvering I must do.
Preprandial snacks will abound, as well as post, and coffee will flow prior to "quitting time" as some have suggested. I've hosted many, but never a dinner as "loaded" as this one.
(Sipping ice water again.)
Thanks you all so much for your responses. Still a little wigged out, but that's sometimes a static state for me. I'd love to hear more.
As a frequest guest of former and current Bosses' wives, I can tell you that you needn't worry about the decor. Just keep the bathrooms clean and stocked with TP and clean towels. That is about all my Bosses' wives have ever done in preparation. Perhaps they never felt obligated to impress me, but I did hear that at least one of the them used to worry when I was coming to dinner. Artist's tastes and decor, with the exception of things that might offend, such as nudes, should be fine. You are unique and should be proud of it. Every home doesn't need to look like a cookie cutter was used to decorate.
Some have been neater than others, and if they all didn't live in magnificent houses, you wouldn't have guessed for the world that this was the Wife of the Boss who did the cooking. One was a Cordon Bleu chef -- no competing there. Her house was kept the messiest, but she could cook. One other couldn't even boil rice and managed to try her weirdest new recipes on me, which were sometimes virtually inedible. One, I could swear, was made of plastic. Even the food seemed to be made of plastic. None had homes that looked like "Boss's" homes in terms of their content. I tell you this so that you don't remain so fearful of what happens when the shoe is on the other foot. They are human too. Just don't worry about the house and be yourself.
As for the food -- try chicken. Or a roast. Or a ham. Everyone eats these things unless they don't eat pork. Spice it as you like. Choose potatoes or rice and some kind of vegetables. Maybe a salad with a simple dressing. Some kind of cake for dessert, or bread pudding, and you may want to remember to start with some kind of appetizer. Cheese and crackers are simple enough for the least CH among us. Keep it really, really simple, but elegant in a CH way.
Serve wine. Beer consumption is harder to control. If you have to serve beer, your DH needs to keep a lid on his consumption in order to keep a lid on the Boss's. Just don't worry so much.


text:
Luxury Custom Jewellery
Welcome to Daniel Prince, specialists in fine bespoke luxury jewellery, where unrivalled craftsmanship and a passion for diamonds and gemstones result in elegant jewellery of unsurpassed quality.
Years of training, skill and patience enable us to create amazingly fine settings, each one showing to perfection the beauty and vitality of the stones, which epitomise the flawless craftsmanship at Daniel Prince of London.
Our custom jewellery design and manufacturing service focuses on Diamond Engagement Rings, Fitted Wedding Rings, Bespoke Eternity rings and other unique luxury jewellery such as pendants, bespoke cufflinks and diamond necklaces.
Old world craftsmanship and service is combined with fresh, innovative design to create luxury jewellery suited to the discerning buyer who values the high quality, skill and artistry of Fine English craftsmanship. Where everything is meticulously handmade using traditional jewellery making techniques, which result in a breathtaking quality usually associated with the Famous London Jewellers of Bond Street and Paris such as Van Cleef & Arpels, David Morris, Boucheron and Cartier.
Unique & Meticulous attention to detail, The Complete Bespoke Service
Prince diamondLearn essential information that you should know before choosing a diamond for your engagement ring. Bespoke Halo Style RingsInspired by beautiful Tiffany Style Rings including Tiffany Soleste, Tiffany Legacy and Embrace style settings. Custom Wedding RingsDaniel Prince can design and create unique or shaped wedding rings to fit around your existing engagement ring
Unique Handmade Luxury Jewellery
Direct from the Workshop
Unique engagement ring designs tailored for you
-Observer Feb 2007
Translate your requirements into reality
Our unique custom jewellery design service is innovative and highly personalised, teamed with an astute ability to translate your individual requirements into reality. We source only the the finest natural coloured diamonds and gemstones that are painstakingly handpicked for optimal beauty and cut to maximise brilliance and fire rather than weight. Coupled with unsurpassed Traditional English Craftsmanship to achieve the same technical perfection that you expect from a high-end Bond Street jeweller.
Bench Made custom jewellery takes exceptional levels of skill and patience, a reassuring mark of the superior and enduring quality that sets Daniel Prince jewellery apart in a world of cheap imports and mass production. Our experienced master craftsman ensure that our superior quality workmanship, attention to detail, and bold innovative designs are flawlessly executed. If you are serious about protecting your investment and want a custom mounting handmade exclusively for you and your stone, contact us for a free no obligation consultation today.


text:
Ray Brown
(Rhyl Blue)
Gender: Male
City: Clwyd
Country: United Kingdom
About Ray
Ex Kirkdale Buck. Living in Kinmel Bay near Rhyl now. .
First Game
Saw my first game against PNE in the boys pen, unfortunately we lost 0-4. Jimmy O'Neill in goal, Peter Farrell was captain
Favourite Everton Moment
Andy Johnson's humiliation of Pepe Rainer for THAT famous third goal
Favourite All Time Player
Dave Hickson. Boyhood Hero
Favourite Current Player
Leighton Baines. Pure Class
Favourite Manager
Howard Kendall. Most successful Everton manager ever, let's hope Davey can surpass his records
Favourite Game
FA Cup Final 1966 v Sheff. Wed.
Favourite Goal
Graeme Sharp v RS
Favourite Kit


text:
Items In Cart
Total $0.00
- 7-Keto
- Acai
- Acidophilus
- Amino Acids
- Antioxidants
- Astaxanthin
- B Vitamins
- Bone Formulas
- C Vitamins
- Calcium
- Carnitine
- Chia Seeds
- Chlorella
- Coconut Oil
- Coenzyme Q10
- Collagen
- Colostrum
- Cranberry
- Creatine
- D Vitamins
- Enzymes
- Epicor
- Fiber
- Fish Oil
- Glucosamine
- Homeopathy
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Krill Oil
- Meal Replacements
- Multiminerals
- Multivitamins
- Mushrooms
- Omega 3-6-9
- Probiotics
- Propolis
- Pycnogenol
- Red Yeast Rice
- 21st Century Health
- California Gold Nutrition
- Carlson Labs
- Country Life
- Doctor's Best
- Enzymatic Therapy
- Enzymedica
- Garden of Life
- Healthy Origins
- iHerb Brands
- Jarrow Formulas
- Life Extension
- Madre Labs
- California Extracts
- Doctor's Best
- Eclectic Institute
- Frontier Natural Products
- Himalaya Herbals
- Jarrow Formulas
- Life Extension
- Aromatherapy Oils
- Bath & Shower
- Beauty Formulas
- Collagen Type I & III
- Conditioner
- Cosmetics, Makeup
- Creams, Lotions & Serums
- Deodorant
- Facial Care
- Gift Bags, Travel Kits
- Hair & Scalp
- Hair Coloring
- Hair, Nail & Skin
- Hand Sanitizer
- Lip Care
- Lip Stick, Gloss, Liner
- Madre Labs, Bath & Beauty
- Massage Oil
- Men's Personal Care
- Mouthwash
- Neem Oil
- Oral, Dental Care
- Personal Hygiene
- Shampoo
- Shaving
- Silica (Silicon)
- Skin Health
- Acure Organics
- Alba Botanica
- AnneMarie Borlind
- Aubrey Organics
- Avalon Organics
- Aveeno
- Derma E
- Desert Essence
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids
- Alpha Lipoic Acid Skin
- Azelaic Acid
- CoQ10 Skin
- Creams & Serums, Day
- Creams & Serums, Eye
- Creams & Serums, Night
- DMAE Skin
- Formulas, Acne
- Formulas, Psoriasis
- Glycolic Acid
- Green Tea Skin
- Hand Lotions
- Hyaluronic Acid Skin
Customer Reviews
Great Healing OIl
3 people found the following review helpful
Posted by Reviewer2135925 on Apr 08, 2010
Purchased at iHerb
This is the most incredible healing oil for pain, sore muscles etc. incredible! I would highly recommend this oil to anyone who has aches and pains or has been hurt. The sooner you apply it the better. Should be in every medicine chest. I personally and many of my clients all have had the best results!! Love it. Robin McBride
wonderful product
3 people found the following review helpful
Posted by Reviewer1363436 on Apr 14, 2011
Purchased at iHerb
This was purchased based mostly on its excellent reviews. Dermatitis on my legs would drive me to distraction with itching and pain. Prescription creams seemed to make it worse so I tried this because of the info regarding skin conditions. It is all true!! This is a wonderful oil - relieves the pain and itching. Very soothing and healing. My legs are in better condition than they have been for months and I have only been using this oil for about 3 weeks. The first bottle of oil worked so well that I came back and bought 12 bottles. I will continue to use this product.
A miracle
2 people found the following review helpful
Posted by Reviewer2679118 on Nov 13, 2011
Purchased at iHerb
This oil with its natural arnica properties has been healing my post-surgery scars. This is my second bottle and love the results.
The smell is divine
2 people found the following review helpful
Posted by Reviewer1605433 on Dec 31, 2010
Purchased at iHerb
Have not needed to use it for anything yet, but applying it as a massage oil felt very soothing and it smells gorgeous!! An update: My son had a bruised face and it helped reduce the swelling quickly, and then my dog puled a muscle and it really helped him when I rubbed it on twice a day.
Wonderful oil
Posted by Reviewer3020816 on Sep 19, 2012
Purchased at iHerb
Order two because I so enjoyed my first bottle. Highly recommend...love the smell.