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McDonald's (NYSE:MCD) has been circulating the news of late for all the wrong reasons. The biggest story being the recent scandal of expired meat in China. The Chinese distributor, Shanghai Husi Foods, was claimed to be selling expired meat and chicken to McDonald's outlets in China. On the 20th of July this year, McDonald's announced that they had ended their partnership with this distributor. The move helps McDonald's protect itself from future quality issues from China and to minimize this impact on future relations with both China and global customers.
During the month of July, McDonald's delivered sales our of Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APACMEA). Sales in this region plunged 7.3%, while global sales fell by 2.5%, recording the worst global same store sales performance over the past decade. As competition for this fast food chain has increased in the US, comparable store sales figures have dropped by 3.2% in July, leading to lower market share.
On August 8th 2014, McDonald's closed down by 0.3% at $93 per share. This was a steep plunge after the share value reached $103.78 in mid-2013. The stock was also on the way to suffer from a seventh-straight weekly decline. At this point the experts believe that the stock has become undervalued, appealing, and it is an attractive price point for McDonald's, the fast-food giant operating around 35,000 restaurants in 115 countries.
McDonald's relationship with shareholders, and the math to back it up.
Over the past decade, dividends for McDonald's have been increasing at a rapid rate. It has a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 20%. This was achieved by improving the payout ratio and by raising earnings through revenue growth and margin expansion. In the fiscal year 2014, McDonald's had an operating margin of 18.6% and out of its net income 30.7% was paid as dividends to the shareholders. Whereas in the fiscal year 2013, McDonald's had an operating margin of 31.2% and 56.2% of the net income was given out as dividends.
The operating margins and the payout ratios are unlikely to go any higher than this rate therefore it is possible that the investors would no longer receive dividend growth of this nature. But this does not lead to the conclusion that investing in McDonald's stock is worthless. Instead, the stock has become more compelling for investors due to the current fall in the prices of its shares. Since late 2009, the highest dividend yield for its stock has been observed currently reaching about 3.45%.
McDonald's performance
To improve its dividend growth McDonald's will have to work on its earnings growth. This will be accomplished by a rise in revenue growth, but due to the recent store sales figures which resulted to be low it is expected that revenue growth will also be low and might even reach negative figures in the future. However, McDonald's still achieves store growth of approximately 4% annually, as it opens about 1,500 restaurant outlets every year.
McDonald's has performed inadequately in the past few years and has suffered from low market share due to increased competition both locally and in foreign markets. Innovations regarding the marketing strategies have been comparatively poor. But despite competitive pressures in the global market, McDonald's has a major brand and scale advantages that remain intact to this day.
Can McDonald's pull through?
The world's largest chain of fast food restaurants has proved itself strong enough in the past as well to tackle such problems. They have handled these situations through innovations in the menu, improvements in the food quality and promotional marketing campaigns. McDonald's has a strong-brand image and it benefits from convenient locations of its restaurant. It is also advantage by its unparalleled advertising and bargaining scale and by its organized franchise system which operates worldwide.
McDonald's has an international presence that is of significant value. The company has decided to improve its competitive focus both locally and internationally therefore experts' claim that is expected that McDonald's will recover in 2014. The company has recently made statement saying that they plan to recover the market share that they have lost due to competition and also work on regaining customer confidence especially in China and the Asian/Pacific region. Moreover, they have increased order from other existing suppliers and are in search of new meat suppliers too, so as to meet the demand.
Although this leading global food service retailer is attempting to regain its position by creating innovative menus and improving its marketing campaigns, it is still quite exposed to domestic and international competition, frail economic environment and poor consumer confidence particularly in the U.S. As McDonald's looks to drive top line growth through expansion into unsaturated markets the company will reduce its dependence on North America by diluting it's portfolio in emerging countries.
The recovery from the latest setback in China could also take a few months thereby harming international sales and possibly putting new locations on hold. These are some serious problems for the company to deal with but there is no doubt that they can be fixed. McDonald's can still develop its business in new emerging markets, developing countries, and has the capacity to expand and stabilize its dividend for shareholder satisfaction. In accordance with the current low share prices for McDonald's stock, it appears to be extremely attractive for investors.
Disclosure: The author has no positions in any stocks mentioned, and no plans to initiate any positions within the next 72 hours. The author wrote this article themselves, and it expresses their own opinions. The author is not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). The author has no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.


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EKOL - Volga - Dicle - Jackal Dual - 9mm P.A.K. Blank Gun Shooting Review
What do you think about this video?
Salvatore chinx: How loud are they regularly because the sound they make in everybody videos be low
Dijon Walker: does it sound real
jarrett dinkins: im 3 years late lol but is the volga louder then that ? or about the same sound becu=ause it sound like a cap gun
YUR_1_TRU_FLY_WHITE_GUY: Doesn't sound very real in my opinion
The Monster Gamer: Can fire pa rounds out of a pak blank gun
45frankielymen SP: i need to know if the 9mm pak 25 rd magazine will fit in other 9mm pak blank guns
GuNzRev & GuNzRTM The Official: there all loud and they got a flash its just that his camera put the noise down auto
MegaCophater: i've been keeping an eye on the site for the jakal dual gun, seems to stay out of stock now... whats going on with them?
Replica Airguns: I just shot away from anything important.
Malachi Hong: do u just shoot it at a blanket or something so there is no mishaps?
Replica Airguns: 9mm P.A.K blanks, should be about the same size as 380 though.
Myles Loud (23-Days-Later): does it take .380 blanks?
Myles Loud (23-Days-Later): does it take .380 blanks?
Myles Loud (23-Days-Later): does it take .380 blanks or 9mm?
Myles Loud (23-Days-Later): does it take 9mm .380 blanks?
Replica Airguns: Yes they are, and the EKOL and Zoraki Blanks guns we sell in our US store now are also front firing.
malthus101: Hi - are these all front venting? Thanks.
Replica Airguns: Right now we only have the ROHM blanks guns available in Canada. Have not seen an EKOL shipment make it into Canada for well over a year now. We ship using Canada Post Expedited out of BC, processing take a day or two and then shipping takes about another 5 business days to ON.
Grant Salmoral: Sorry volga double jackal :)
Grant Salmoral: hello .I'm interested in buying the ekol double jackal I live in ontario canada I'm also interested in a lot of your products actually can you tell me the best way to buy from you also what is the shipping time like and if I paid more could u do rush delivery ? Thank for your time I look forwards to your vids every and time you make them :)
EKOL - Volga - Dicle - Jackal Dual - 9mm P.A.K. Blank Gun Shooting Review 5 out of 5
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subset: commoncrawl


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Ranger Programs
Park Guide guided tours to explore the Wesleyan Chapel, where the women's rights movement had its formal beginnings leave from inside the Visitor Center at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Tours of the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House are finished for the season due to restorations that are occuring. These tours will start again in the spring of 2017.
M'Clintock Program
The M'Clintock House is open Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Call the Visitor Center at: 315-568-0024 for more information about the schedule of programs.


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...has been good. The live-in university life is treating me pretty freakin' well. It's going to be really interesting when winter break arrives.
I really haven't been doing much in terms of writing except for this newsletter on campus. It's a new thing for me, considering I'm really not a journalist at heart. Ah well, new experiences.
To readers of Through the Fire on FanFiction.net, I apologize. The latest chapter had more going wrong for it than I originally realized, so it has been put back in the works. The framework is set, but the content is not. School takes priority, and finals are nearly here.
Hang in there.


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Disclaimer: Characters from the Harry Potter series are the property of J.K. Rowling, and various publishers: including but not limited to Bloomsbury, Scholastic and Warner Brothers. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended by the writing of this story.
A/N: Hello there! Welcome into to confines of my twisted, yet wholesome mind and warped imagination! While I transgress what is known as cannon, and take a very fun route set out by the same impulses that charge my brain, I would like to wish you enjoyment from what I will try to make of this most recent of my escapades, which I like to entitle: Earth's Emissary.
In taking some ideas from several of the most amazing light and dark stories and fan fiction out there, I will endeavor to bend some of it to my will and weave a new perspective of what Harry's sixth year will be like. Giving new life to "The Power the Dark Lord Knows Not" and making what I would like to think will be an agreeable Alternate Universe of the reality we know and love as Harry Potter!
In any case, if you didn't get that, it basically means that this story is AU. –Snickers-
Oh! And by the way, this is a sixth year story that branches out of fifth year. You'll notice, however that it will contain and parallel Half Blood Prince, taking some things from the books and ignoring others altogether.
Horcruxes, for one, have been completely thrown out the window.
Finally, to finish my ramblings I would like to express my profound thanks to my amazingly awesome Beta-Reader, Alex, who single-handedly has changed this chapter to something that actually resembles proper English. The readers of this tale are forever in your debt.
Chapter One
Unexpected Alignment
Clearer skies as the ones seen tonight over the park and surrounding streets of Little Whinging, Surrey, have not blessed the sights and visions of humans in millennia. For the skies of this world; the veils of protection that shroud its atmosphere from the universe have not found reason to do so, nor one worthy enough to view its splendor until this night— this very exceptional night.
A night which shall inspire legend and be the base of myth for centuries to come; a night where the unveiled stars, the exposed planets and the uncovered universe are laid bare before closed emerald-green eyes; eyes so thick with sadness that it is almost palpable, almost corporeal in its strength.
Eyes that belong to one Harry Potter: young wizard in training, Boy-Who-Lived, and who, if seen by anyone at this very moment, would be the perfect depiction of complete loneliness. Not because of his lack of friends, for he has many. Nor for lack of people who love him, because even he does not know them all. But because in his heart, in his soul and in his very being, he mourns for those who he has lost, and for those who he might yet lose.
And for this his soul aches, his heart bleeds— for this, his eyes shed tears of loss, tears of lost hope, tears of helplessness. But that which signifies the deepest lament, unusual in its intensity, are those tears he sheds for those he does not know and will never know, due to the darkness that taints the world; that tarnishes the sight of a night such as this with the shadows of malevolent deeds of years past and the evil prospects of the future.
Tonight, laying as he has been for the past few hours; on the grassy fields of Little Whinging's park, the sadness in his heart ebbs away when his eyes open and focus on the majesty before him; as clouds roll away from sight, leaving the firmament bared without their presence; As if some unknown blanket had been pulled back to reveal a clearer sight of the stars than he had ever seen. Tonight, as his senses begin to prickle from hearing sounds he has never heard, and sights he has never seen, he is keenly aware of his surroundings and the fact that something momentous is occurring, something that only Mother Earth knows has not happened since ancient times.
Tonight, destinies will be revealed, the past will be rehashed, and the future will be set on a new course— for this world's Emissary, this era's Ambassador has just made his first call…
- o -
The timepieces of this mortal world mark the passing of the midnight hour on the fourteenth day after the arrival of one Harry Potter at Number 4 Privet Drive. Silently entranced, after hours of watching the unveiled skies, he questions what events have occurred to allow such beauty to grace his eyes; eyes which he would call unworthy of this gift. And yet he cannot remove his gaze, and for the first time this summer, and of those summers past, he feels true happiness at the thought that maybe, just maybe, he could one day be worthy of such an experience, unlike tonight, where to his mind, he is just sneaking a peek at something that he does not deserve.
'Because', he questions himself, 'how can a murderer ever be worthy of this? How can one with such a destiny be allowed to see such magnificence?'
"You are, young one," came a barely audible whisper, startling Harry from his thoughts. "You are worthy," it reassured, as Harry quickly looked around to find the source of the sound, drawing his wand, only to discover that apart from the trees he was completely alone. Knowing that not even his guard from the Order was close to where he now lay. He remained still, vigilant.
"Who's there?" he asked in a whisper to the vast emptiness of the park, his sharp gaze flickering at any sign of movement.
For long moments nothing was heard, apart from the rustling of the leaves as the first breeze since the skies opened up brought the sounds of nature back to its awakened state. "We are," the whisper spoke from behind, as another breeze ruffled his windswept hair.
Harry quickly stood up, turning in slow circles without moving from his spot, "Who are you?" his voice filled with curiosity and caution, "What do you want?"
Again, time seemed to drag out, and the sounds were replaced by the unexplainable silence of the stars, of the moon, and for the first time that night, nervousness was made known in his brain. "We are the custodians," was the whispered answer from his left, as the leaves reminded Harry of their existence. "We mean you no harm, young one," the voice soothingly whispered, "We have come to answer the call."
Calming slightly since he heard no ill intent in the whispers, only ageless wisdom, Harry lowered his wand slightly and soothing his somewhat unsettled nerves, he asked the first thing that entered his mind, "What call?"
An amused reverberation was heard throughout the clearing in which Harry stood, sounding oddly like a breeze swaying the grass. "The world's call, young one, nature's song, the universe's breath; we came to answer."
"But who are you?" Harry asked again, now thoroughly confused. "What are you? I don't understand," he kept asking in his bewilderment, pausing a moment before inquiring, "And what does this call have to do with me?"
"It has everything to do with you, young one," was the reply as another voice joined the first in the whispered answer, coming from everywhere at once. "You have been revealed," they responded as another voice, gentle in nature, joined in, "we came to you and for you, because it is our duty, our purpose," they finished.
If Harry felt puzzled before, now he was beyond mystified, "I don't understand," he finally got out, before looking up to the sky to see if it had any answers, only to find the most particular sight. For the stars, before beautifully exposed, now sparkled all the more, as if something had been obscuring their brilliance all this time; The moon, in its crescent stage, previously dulled, now shone like a silver mirror; where the sun's influence in its display could be seen as clear as day. Finally Harry looked down again, not feeling worthy of this. "I don't understand," he repeated as he sat down on the soft grass, his eyes shining with sadness, "I don't understand," he choked out once more as a single tear leaked down his face only to reflect the sky above, exhibiting a parade of colors as it reflected the moon's silvery glow and tread a known path down his pale face.
"You will young one. That is what we are here for. To help you understand," the whispers came to answer quicker then before, giving comfort to his confused mind. It eased the pain in his wounded heart with warm words and unintelligible whispers, until he raised his head again, feeling at peace.
A peace so far denied to him this summer.
"Thank you," Harry whispered back, eyes bright, as he rested against a tree, "whoever you are, thank you," he finished and sighed. He had not expected anything like this to happen to him, it felt so strange, and yet so right. He didn't even know what was happening. All he knew was that ever since that night in the Department of Mysteries his heart had yet to find something to take comfort in, until now that is, and for that he was eternally grateful.
"You are most welcome, Harry Potter," an ethereal voice whispered to him, a beautiful sound like chimes and bells under the influence of an eternal breeze. "Tonight we are here for you, and you will be the first being to see us in ages. Just know, you are worthy, for your heart is true and wrought out of love for all things, even those that you have yet to understand. It is this, combined with all your other qualities that have made you worthy. Know that all this is for you. Only you," it finished, and as the echo of this being's voice faded, a small spark sized speck of light emerged from the oak tree many feet in front of him, shining brighter and brighter as it neared him until it was two inches in height. Although appearing to be formed from pure white light, the spark strangely did not illuminate anything around it.
It hovered for a few seconds, unmoving, just two feet in front of him, as if evaluating him. Then as if finding him truly worthy, the light began to diminish, until only a slight glow surrounded it, and Harry gasped. For in front of him, beautiful white translucent butterfly wings beating behind it, no, Her, was the most beautiful fairy, if that was indeed what he was seeing, that he had ever laid eyes on.
The being laughed, and as it did, a breeze caressed the grass around him. She smiled, her bright blue eyes sparkling with warmth. "No young one, I am no fairy, although we are distant cousins. We are Sprites, guardians of the skies, custodians of this earth, and keepers of all life." And as she finished saying this Harry noticed that he was surrounded by dozens of these tiny beings and knew that had he not been sitting down already, he would have now; for in front of him was the bodily representation of nature, emitting waves of what he could only describe as harmony and balance.
Minutes passed as he took in the sight of the different colored sparks of light from every shade of the rainbow, and finally set his eyes on the one that had last spoken, only to find another with pearly white, brilliant butterfly wings hovering besides the first; this one most definitely male. He took another look around and noticed that although the greens, blues, yellows and every other wing color repeated themselves; there were only the two white ones, the ones right in front of him.
"We are the Elders of our kind," the male sprite talked for the first time, almost like he could read his thoughts, his voice as smooth as the waters that flow down the mountains, his tone holding the importance of unchallenged waves hitting the coastline. "I am known as Adrastos, and this is Anthea, my life companion. We are the leaders of our kind; we oversee the skies, the earth and the waters along with the beings that reside within them. We are here answering your call Harry Potter, and we do so not only willingly, but with all of our hearts, young Legatus."
And as Harry was going to voice his confusion the one called Anthea spoke, "We know that this is strange for you, young one, but you must understand that you were born for this, know that we Sprites, caretakers of this world, are here for you, Harry Potter. We will answer your questions; we will clear your confusion," she paused for a moment, and tilted her head to the side, "that is, if you allow us?"
Harry returned her warm gaze, and was barely able to withhold his reaction to the sincerity he saw there, and for that he was even more grateful, because it was the lack of knowledge as much as anything else that made last year a disaster, that made it a nightmare. So with nothing else to say, he simply nodded at her and relaxed further as the Sprites settled around him; in the branches of the tree he was leaning against and the ground around him, while others still hovered; Adrastos and Anthea, for their part, settled on one of his overlarge jean-short covered knees.
After all were settled, and Harry started to wonder what his Aunt and Uncle would think of his late night, not to mention his guard, Adrastos chuckled lightly, drawing his attention, "do not fret, young Legatus, tonight is a special night. Tonight, you need not worry."
"Why do you call me that?" Harry asked impulsively.
"That, young one," Anthea answered, "will be explained in due time."
"First of all," Adrastos began, "you need to know our purpose to understand yours. We Sprites are what is known in legend as the spirits of nature, we care for the trees and the earth, as we care for the creatures that live within, and around them; we care for and watch the waters and air along with the fish that swims in one and the birds that flies in the other; we oversee the currents, we protect that which cannot protect itself, and we maintain order where there would be chaos."
"And what does this have to do with me?" Harry asked, a bit lost.
"Everything, young one," answered Anthea in her ethereal voice, looking up at him from her position in his knee, whispering to his soul. "For all of the hundreds of years that our lives last, it has yet to be long enough to see an Emissary walk this Earth. You see Harry Potter, every few thousand years or so, when the world is in discord, when its inhabitants are all in conflict, one spirit is selected; one being who is capable of leading and understanding the plight and plague that all societies of this world are going through. A spirit noble, caring and pure hearted enough to achieve harmony within this entire planet, amongst all of its inhabitants," she stated, locking her eyes with his. "You Harry Potter are this being. You, young Legatus, are the Emissary. You are to be the Ambassador of this world, and thus we answer your call, we the custodians of this planet come to your aid, and we shall help you in any way that we can."
Harry sat there, stunned speechless, his mind swirling with this information, and although he could sense the sincerity of her words and feel the atmosphere resonate with its truth, he could still not understand them. Finally, after moments of dizzying thoughts, his eyes refocused behind his round rimmed spectacles and he asked the first question that came to mind, "But how?" he stuttered. "What about Voldemort?"
Adrastos looked at him with compassion and understanding. "Young Emissary," he started smoothly, "the self proclaimed Dark Lord Voldemort is but the existing embodiment of a quintessential reality that has brought this world to its current state. Because of him and those like him, muggles fear a nameless foe and wizards run from their long forgotten responsibilities, looking at magic as something other than the gift it truly is."
"What do you mean responsibilities?" Harry interrupted.
"That is easy, young one," Adrastos replied, "Wizards have step by step forgotten their place in this world. They think that the gift of magic makes them better; when truly, they are just like any other creature in this planet, equal in its own right, with its role in the delicate equilibrium of this world's existence. Magic has other uses long lost that are not for their own interests, but for nature's well being, and unless that is remembered soon, chaos will reign, and the scales that balance this world will tip over."
"And then our world will start loosing its life, little by little, it will be drained and finally perish, along with those who still live within it" Anthea said in a sorrowful tone.
Adrastos grasped her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, and looked back up to Harry who was now wearing a horrified expression. "Do not worry, young one," he said as he correctly read the distress on Harry's face, "this will not happen for hundreds of years more, but know that you are the turning point, and that you are able to restore balance at your own pace."
"How?" Harry whispered brokenly, as he realized what more was expected of him, not only with Voldemort but also with this new development.
Seeing the despair that was blossoming in Harry's emerald green eyes, Anthea flew to the air and hovered just in front of his face, a fierce look on her perfect features. "Listen to me, Emissary," her whispered voice becoming steely, as her lithe body glowed brighterand her cheeks flushed, "and listen well," she said, as the wind picked up around him and the trees joined in the cacophonous orchestra of sounds; the sky above shone even brighter as if supporting her every word. "You were chosen only months after your conception because of the purity of your own soul and the resonance of your own heart! Before the prophecy that you think rules your life was even spoken…" She looked intently at him, as this shocked him. He felt as if he had been slapped by reality.
If this was true, then maybe he did have a choice.
"You were to be the Emissary of this world, and as this night grows later you are starting to feel it, you are starting to hear your call, the universe's breath, and this world's song. You were chosen for your own merits, not because of what others think of you, or what you think of yourself!"
And indeed Harry did feel a slight connection, a small pull that showed him the life around him. Could it be true? 'But was this not another thing that ruled his life?'
"No, young one," Adrastos answered his thoughts; "everyone has a purpose in their existence. The difference is that you have found yours sooner then most. A prophecy is made as a prediction of certain events, it does not rule your actions, and it does not rule your life. A prophecy is only a glimpse to what could happen, a road that destiny and fate see fit to uncover. You were chosen as the Emissary before the prophecy was uttered; and as it is only an Emissary that can vanquish evil such as Voldemort, thus the prophecy is just a statement of what the universe already knows."
Feeling a bit more relaxed now that he was starting to understand, Harry looked down at Anthea and Adrastos, who had settled down on his knee again and asked, "Why can I be the only one to defeat Voldemort? Do you know what this power that he knows not is? How can I be a killer?"
Anthea laughed softly, a soothing sound to his ears. "You will understand in the near future, young Emissary, but worry not, you will comprehend soon enough, and we are here to help you in this task. But the alignment is at hand, the call is growing louder, we must bestow our blessing and bond our race and our people to you, so you can fulfill your purpose and so you can fulfill your duty. Come, Emissary, the skies are open to your eyes." She and Adrastos took flight along with all the other sprites. "Come Harry Potter, your future awaits you," she finished backing away from him and gesturing to follow.
And Harry followed, still curious of his fate, but comforted by the thought that he was not as alone as he had imagined himself to be: that there could be a way to defeat Voldemort, and that maybe there was a future for him after all. It was this last thought above all others that gave him hope, and as we all know hope is but the first step to victory.
Step by step, with the other Sprites surrounding him while Anthea and Adrastos led the way, Harry walked to the middle of the park, trusting his senses and his instincts, knowing on some unknown level that no evil could come from beings such as these, in nights as the one unveiled before him. With new purpose at hand, a new destiny to follow and a promise made by his heart and backed by his own spirit, his steps were made more confident and the Sprites fluttered their butterfly-like wings harder, circling him with an otherworldly pattern of light. Before he knew what was happening, the scenery changed and Harry Potter disappeared from Little Whinging, Surrey, to the complete confusion of the Order.
- o -
The sparse trees, open fields and playgrounds of Little Whinging Park were replaced by a thick forest so old it could be tasted in the air; where the plants themselves seemed alive and ageless, wise beings that have witnessed the birth of this world and the evolution of all its creatures.
Harry walked slowly, trying to absorb everything that he could as the Sprites now hovered peacefully around, almost in some strange formation that only they could recognize with Anthea and Adrastos in the lead. By his calculations it was at least three in the morning, and yet he felt completely awake.
After some five minutes of walking, the Sprites once again started to rotate around him, but this time he felt a sort of acceptance radiating from them, some kind of warm embrace. When he took his next step it seemed as if the trees were moving, opening up a hidden barrier of nature that lead to a small clearing in which the exposed sky was clearly visible; and in the center of this clearing hovered yet another white winged Sprite.
"Greetings, Emissary," the female Sprite said, as the elders reached the center and he was within hearing range. "Welcome to Nature's Center, our home, and greetings to you too, mother, father," she finished with a hug to each Anthea and Adrastos, which they returned, before turning to him.
"This, young one, is our daughter Asherah, she will be the next leader of our people, when our time draws to a close in a few hundred years," Adrastos spoke.
Harry nodded to her and swept his eyes around the clearing, watching, as the other sprites sat in the tree branches around the clearings border, joining many others of their kind. His head filled with many more questions and he wondered why they had brought him here while he became entranced with their movements.
"Love, young one," spoke Anthea, startling him out of his thoughts.
"What?" he asked, once again confused as he set his eyes on the two elders and the now giggling Asherah.
"Love," she stated simply, while he gave her a blank look, to which she explained, "Love is the power of creation, the energy that governs all life, all things. Love is why you were brought here, for when this world was created, these were the first trees that grew; thus this place is where love is found in a much greater concentration than in any other part of the planet."
"You see, young one," Adrastos continued, "not only were you chosen for your pure heart, but because of the vast amounts of love that reside there; for even after all that you've been through you keep giving without complaint. Where the prophecy states that Voldemort marked you as his equal, you are equal in that you are his perfect opposite."
"How?" Harry asked, now completely entranced with the explanation. He felt as though his shoulders were now lighter because someone else knew the contents of the prophecy, and what's more, they actually understood it.
"Simple, Emissary," Anthea said. "Where you represent creation, he represents destruction; where his heart withered and blackened with the experiences of his childhood; yours grew and blossomed, shining brighter every day."
"Where he hates," Adrastos continued, "you love. And that simple reason brings about endless scenarios. Now, because here is where love thrives and where it's maintained in its truest form, here is where our race can bond itself to you, so you may begin your path."
"What do you mean, bond?" Harry asked, wanting to know as much as he could.
For this question, the previously silent Asherah hovered forward and answered; her whispered voice sweet and soft like a blooming rose, "You, Harry Potter, are an Emissary; an Ambassador for this world, a source of balance. And for that you must understand the needs and lifestyles of all the intelligent and conscious beings under your care: all those creatures that can reason and are not governed by instinct, so that you may be able to bring this equilibrium to existence. Because of this you establish a bond with them, an exchange if you will, to help you understand their place in this world."
"Wait a minute," Harry interrupted, a horrified look on his face, "you mean that I have to bond with every living creature?" His voice squeaked on the last few words.
Adrastos chuckled, amused, "No Legatus, not every living creature or being, just those that have a direct impact in this worlds existence. You're already both human and wizard, since they are one and the same, simply with different tasks, responsibilities and abilities. However there are also the Centaurs, Merpeople, Werewolves, Vampires…" he trailed off after he saw the look that was now upon Harry's face.
"What?" he whispered, his eyes impossibly wide.
Againthe sprites laughed lightly, "Don't worry yourself, young Emissary, we answered your first call since it was specifically to us, although it was unconsciously done because of your state of mind; after we bond with you, you will gain a new perspective that comes with our enhanced intuition," answered Adrastos.
"What do you mean, when I gain your enhanced intuition?" Harry asked them, his curiosity overriding his muddled brain.
"You see, Emissary," came Asherah's whispered voice, "when we bond ourselves to you, you will become one of us, in a manner of speaking. You will gain our abilities, our speech, and our instincts, so that you may better understand us; and as you bond with each of the other beings, your body, mind and soul will create a balance between all and from that initial stability, where you are its center, the delicate equilibrium of life will be restored and spread throughout this world," she finished calmly.
Harry just looked at them, finally understanding a part of what was expected of him, "You want me to rule the world?" he blurted out before he could stop himself.
"Oh no, young Emissary," smiled Anthea.
"Please, call me Harry, just Harry," he told them, a bit relieved that he had thought wrongly.
"If you so wish, Harry," Anthea continued, smiling still, "you will not rule, you will oversee. You will not command, you will be followed. Just as we are the custodians of nature, so you will be the custodian of life and its balance in this world. Where we could only see, you can do; where we have only been able to watch as the equilibrium of this world was slowly lost, you can fix it. You will know when that balance is threatened, and how to achieve it again, at whatever pace you decide. You, Harry, are an Emissary, an Ambassador, you are the Legatus, and you will succeed, we know it," she finished fervently, looking him straight in the eye.
He thought about it, and nodded, determination flashing in his green eyes, "I'll try my best," he whispered, "I will," he repeated more ardently.
"We know you will do your best, young Emissary. Even if this is new to you, you'll soon understand our point of view. Now come here, for the hour is upon us, the alignment is almost complete and the bond must be made. Any other questions you have will be answered later, young Harry," spoke Adrastos.
As he walked the remaining steps to the center of the small clearing, Harry looked up, and saw what the elder Sprites had been talking about; what appeared to be two comets were in view and they were closing in to form a circular structure around the crescent moon along with stars from different constellations. It was breathtaking.
Asherah hovered beside him looking up as well, her white butterfly wings beating slowly, "It's an Unexpected Alignment," she explained, "since we are the keepers of nature for this planet, we are the first ones that need to bond with you so that the foundations are set, and thus the balance can be reached faster and at your convenience. As your heart ached, and you cried your sadness and loneliness to the world, we felt it," she paused as he glanced in her direction before looking up at the moon again, "we suffered with you," she continued, "and that was our call, that was what told us that the Chosen Emissary was ready, because nothing can influence our emotions, that is, nothing but the true Legatus. And so this planet, Earth, felt you for the first time, your sadness, and your readiness to accept your destiny, and it allowed you to see your surroundings without the veil of protection that until tonight had covered us."
Harry watched as the two comets neared their positions, closer and closer to the ring of stars that would surround the moon as it reached its own position. He remained silent, somehow knowing that Asherah would continue explaining.
"And thus, the Universe saw our sleeping planet open herself up to one individual, you, and sensed your inclination to fulfill your task. Making it known that we have its approval by creating an Unexpected Alignment, so that you may be in tune not only with what is within our planet but what is outside it. So that when you achieve the complete balance of this world you can bond with the rest of the Universe and as a result the universe may gain balance as well."
"That's a bit complicated," Harry muttered, still watching the mesmerizing sight of the Universe moving, realizing something for the first time that night. 'This is for me.' And his heart warmed at the thought, and his eyes shined because this was for him, because he was worthy. Not a freak, not abnormal, not a waste of space, as his Uncle professed. He was accepted, however unique he would end up being and he knew that he would soon feel whole, that he would fulfill his purpose and would succeed in gaining harmony, even as Voldemort's shadow darkened his path.
- o -
At one minute prior to four a.m. Harry stood in the center of the clearing, looking at the moon which was at an almost perfect forty-five degrees from his position, and watched as, second by second it approached the center in the perfectly circular formation of stars.
He looked on, anticipation on his face, as the comets that would take places on the northeastern and southwestern positions of the moon almost reached alignment. It looked glorious; a one in several hundred lifetimes' chance, and it was for him, for just Harry.
Finally, when the last ten seconds commenced their countdown, as one, the young sprites from each color of the spectrum and a representative from each force of nature took flight and formed a perfect circle around Harry, with their future leader, Asherah, in front of him. They explained that to bond themselves as a group to him it must be with the youth of their community, since they represented their future as such.
When four o'clock arrived, as the silvery crescent moon slid into place between the perfectly aligned constellations and correctly positioned comets, time seemed to stretch as warmth spread throughout Harry's body. His green eyes remained fixed on the Unexpected Alignment, while the Sprites, shining brightly in a cocoon of colored light, circled him at ever increasing speeds; their passage causing the air to spiral whilst no sound was made by anything within the forest.
Soon the second passed, the perfect alignment was broken; the moon and comets kept their own trajectories. But still, consciously, Harry knew that there was more out there as the skies once again closed themselves up, leaving behind the dull winking of starlight that had shone so brilliantly before. The opaque quality of moonlight returned, whereas, for a few short hours, it had rivaled the sun.
After watching the sky's beautiful display die down, Harry's attention was brought down to earth once more as a wall of multicolor light erupted around him, mixing until only a pure cylinder of white light could be seen. An overwhelming feeling of belonging washed over him, until he neither heard, nor saw, nor felt any more. Harrydrifted into the most peaceful sleep he'd ever had while being lowered by the Sprites to a comfortable position in the soft grass, unaware of the changes slowly making themselves known in both his body and mind…
To be continued…


text:
Fried Chicken with Whole Baby Vegetables
|Tomato puree
|1 Tablespoon
|Ginger pulp
|1 Teaspoon (Or Paste)
|Garlic pulp
|1 Teaspoon (Or Paste)
|Chili powder
|1 1⁄2 Teaspoon
|Mango powder
|2 Teaspoon
|Ground coriander
|2 Teaspoon
|1 Teaspoon
|Ground cumin
|1 Teaspoon
|Boneless skinless chicken breasts
|10 Ounce, cut into small cubes (300 Grams)
|2 Tablespoon
|Corn oil
|1⁄2 Pint (For Deep Frying, 300 Milliliter)
|For fried vegetables
|Corn oil
|4 Tablespoon
|Onion seeds
|1⁄4 Teaspoon
|Curry leaves
|Coriander seeds
|1⁄2 Teaspoon, crushed, in a pestle and mortar
|Cumin seeds
|1⁄2 Teaspoon
|Black peppercorns
|6 , crushed
|Crushed red chilies
|1 Teaspoon
|Baby courgettes
|Baby onions
|Frozen green beans
|4 Ounce, Defrosted (125 Grams)
|Chopped fresh coriander
|1 Tablespoon
|Cherry tomatoes
|Lemon wedges
|4 (To Garnish:)
1. In a small bowl, mix together the tomato puree, ginger, garlic, chilli powder, mango powder, ground coriander, salt and cumin.
2. With your hands, rub the spice mixture on to the chicken pieces. Sprinkle with the cornflour and toss to coat thoroughly.
3. Heat the corn oil for deep-frying in a karahi or deep frying pan and fry the chicken pieces, a few at a time, for 7-10 minutes. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Set aside.
4. To cook the vegetables, heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a deep frying pan and fry the onion seeds, curry leaves, crushed coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns and red chillies for about 1 minute, then add the baby courgettes, baby onions and green beans and stir-fry for 1 1/2-2 minutes until the baby onions have browned slightly.
5. Add the cooked chicken pieces, fresh coriander and cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with lemon wedges and more fresh coriander, if wished.
Recipe Summary
Rate It
Nutrition Rank
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: Complete recipe
Calories 1786 Calories from Fat 858
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 97 g149.7%
Saturated Fat 9 g44.8%
Trans Fat 0.4 g
Cholesterol 165.1 mg55%
Sodium 2616.4 mg109%
Total Carbohydrates 153 g51.1%
Dietary Fiber 46.2 g184.6%
Sugars 55.9 g
Protein 102 g203.7%
Vitamin A 318.2% Vitamin C 834.3%
Calcium 67.1% Iron 107%
*Based on a 2000 Calorie diet


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Top Stop Snoring Solutions
Key Features
- Very Effective Mouthpiece
- Material is BPA & Latex Free
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Other Stop Snoring Products
SnoreZip is an all-natural homoeopathic spray to stop snoring quickly and effectively. It is sprayed under the tongue thrice daily for best results. It is highly recommended for use to achieve better sleep and snore free life. It's safe and worth a try.
ZQuiet is an effective, fast and easy-to-use dentist-designed device to kick snoring out while you are asleep. It eliminates snoring by stabilizing the jaw in its forward position. The device is present in 2 forms that easily fit both men and women of different mouth sizes. It promotes healthy sleep and a free snoring atmosphere to you and those around you.
Good Morning Snore Solution
Good Morning Snore Solution is the mouthpiece that is well designed to help snorers stop snoring while sleeping. It enables you to breathe easily and will not obstruct your airway at all. It is a flexible mouthpiece and can easily fit any snorer who uses it. It has zero negative effects. Wear it every night and eradicate snoring problems effectively and quickly. Use Good Morning Snore Solution as the best snoring solution to you.
The ZYPPAH Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece Device is the best and real solution to your snoring. It is FDA-cleared, uses boil-and-bite process, is easily moulded, effective and safe to use. It is the most popular hybrid-oral snoring product that really cures snoring fully.
The VitalSleep is classified as a mandibular advancement device or MAD. It really is made to hold your lower-jaw in a forward position to keep your airway open while sleeping. Use it regular while sleeping to remove snoring faster and can sleep much better. It will transform your life drastically as you'll be free of snoring once again.
My Snoring Solution
My Snoring Solution is the world's leading jaw supporter for fighting snoring. It is strongly recommended as a must have snoring product. My Snoring Solution chin strap allows you breathe more easily by keeping your airway open and unobstructed. It works as it claims to eliminate snoring quickly. It is safe and easy to use. Buy My Snoring Solution as the only snoring solution to you.
SnoreLess Pillow
The SnoreLess Pillow works in reducing your nightly snoring ritual. It is made to keep your head tilted back slightly, angling the neck preventing the soft tissues from obstructing the airway. It gives better sleep than regular pillows. It is really great to use while you sleep to reduce snoring. Snore less by using SnoreLess Pillow.
SnoreRX mouthpiece is made of a medical-grade material that is non-irritating and durable in nature. It has no latex, BPA or acrylics in it. It uses a boil-and-bite process to maintain the custom fit. The upper and lower trays of SnoreRx are cushioned creating a gentle feel on the teeth. The mouthpiece contains airflow holes called V-Flow by SnoreRx.
Snore Guard
Snore Guard is an anti-snoring mouthpiece that promises to work the instant you begin using it. It is an effective jaw retaining device that entails profession fitting over your teeth to cease snoring while sleeping. You need a dentist to really fit it in. It really solves your snoring issues and enhances better life and sleep permanently.
Pure Sleep is a self-moulded, prescription mouthpiece being popularly marketed today as an anti snoring product. It is FDA-cleared and is safe to use. It also is a Mandibular Advancement Device that uses boil-and-bite method.
SnoreDoc is a mandibular advancement device. It functions by holding the lower jaw in slightly a forward position even though you sleep. It opens you airway and thus removing the tissue vibrations that causes snoring. It is highly effective in treating snoring and anti snoring. It has a breathing hole that suits best for mouth breather.
The aveoTSD is a simple yet effective and non invasive stop snoring device. It is a prescription medication to easily solve your snoring problems. It is scientifically proven to work greatly. It repositions the tongue in forward position to stop snoring. Use AveoTSD to fight snoring completely.
SnoreMate is a stop snoring mouthpiece, also referred to as a Mandibular Advancement Device. It gently holds your lower jaw in a forward position whilst you are sleeping. It opens up the airway in your throat and slows down the rushing air. Thus it causes the snoring to be eliminated.
SnoreMend snoring mouthpiece is a computer device that is worn at night to hold the low jaw slightly forward to stop snoring. It doesn't lock the jaw. SnoreMender allows you to breathe normally and closes naturally while sleeping. It is soft and flexible to use.
The Remedy For A Relaxed And Healthy Sleep
Being diagnosed with sleep apnea may not be the best news for you to hear but then there are changes that you certainly need to get used to. The most common and rather effective treatment for sleep apnea is CPAP where the patient may need to wear a mask covering his nose or both the nose and mouth. The mask generally helps maintain a constant air pressure as you breathe and is vital for keeping the breathing pores open by ensuring a continuous supply of oxygen.
This prevents breathlessness or short pauses in breathing as you sleep which is a common occurrence in sleep apnea. However, putting on a mask can be uncomfortable for a lot of patients and it may generally take some time till he/she gets accustomed to wearing it on a regular basis.The same type of mask may not be preferred by every individual and you may have to try out a number of them to finally choose the one most convenient for you. Keeping this in view, CPAP mask suppliers nowadays have started manufacturing different types of masks suitable for use with various face shapes and sizes. Some of them also come with extra features for providing the best sleeping therapy.
A few of the most popularly used sleep apnea masks are mentioned below:
1. Full Face Masks:
Full face masks are those that cover both the nose and the mouth while breathing. The masks are available with either side straps or complete headgear for tight fastening to the head and face. While the mask itself is responsible for supplying air pressure, the straps or head gear are used to hold the mask in place. Moreover, full face masks prevent any loss of air pressure due to their compact fit and hence provide additional comfort while sleeping. This mask is most suitable if you suffer from nasal congestion.
2. Nasal Masks:
The nasal masks unlike the full face ones, cover only your nose and are triangular shaped mimicking the shape of your nose. The common models consist of a four point headgear or side straps for holding the mask in place. These masks may be made of different materials like silicone, gel or cloth. They are also enhanced with features like cushions or pads around the nose and the forehead to ensure extra comfort for the user. They are apt for users who move around a lot in their sleep.
3. Nasal Pillows Masks:
As the name suggests, these masks use a soft pillow which is used to seal the base of the nostrils leaving the mouth open. The pillow itself is held in place by side straps or headgear. The nasal pillows masks are most suitable for those users who feel claustrophobic and don't like too much weight and extra material on their faces. Besides these basic varieties, many new variants of masks are widely available these days like the oral masks, hybrid masks, pediatric masks etc. Discussing your needs with a doctor or mask supplier may help you choose the best one.
Facts About Snoring
Do you snore? You might; however, some snorers usually do not notice their own snoring. According to reports, an estimated one billion people in the world today suffer with a snoring problem. So, there is a good chance you might be one of them.
What is snoring? It occurs when there is a blockage in your nasal or airway passage while you are sleeping. Therefore, you make loud, unpleasant noises. Most people who suffer from a snoring problem do not seem to be overly concerned about the problem.
However, medical experts suggest that this is not wise. Snoring contributes to sleeping problems. It can also cause jaw problems. And, for some people a snoring problem can lead to a more serious health issue known as sleep apnea.
More men snore than women. And, men also start to snore earlier than women. According to research, some men start snoring by their early thirties. The main reason for the difference is that men have larger necks making it more likely for them to snore.
Also, more men tend to be obese, which is also a leading cause of snoring. Interestingly, when men were questioned about their snoring, they stated that they didn't feel they had a problem and they also considered their wives to be light sleepers.
If you are a woman that snores, there is a good chance that you might be heavier and shorter than the women that do not snore. The reason being is that most women snore through their noses. Men, on the other hand, tend to snore through their mouths.
Most women are more likely to talk to a doctor about a snoring problem than a male is. Or, if they do not talk to a doctor, they will at least seek for a way to treat the problem.
Almost all people who snore are deep sleepers. They sleep comfortably which is why they are often not aware they have a problem. So, if the people who love you have been telling you frequently that you have a problem, it may be time to listen.
It is extremely important that you breathe properly when you sleep. You need to take the proper steps to make sure you are getting the airflow needed while sleeping. For most people, this usually means simple lifestyle changes or using an anti-snore device. Look into your options today and start making the nighttime quieter for everyone around you.
How to Prevent Snoring
I'll never forget this road trip I took with my dad. We had planned to spend the weekend helping my aunt fix up her house. However, we had to wait until the workday ended on Friday night to leave town so we did not make it to my aunt's house until the early hours of the morning. It was so late that we did not want to disrupt anyone, so we just crashed on the family room couches.
I remember being completely exhausted. My dad fell asleep right away. And, just as I was about to drift off into a deep sleep I was awoken by the sound of my dad's snoring. It was so loud I could not believe it. I tried to wake my dad but he was in too deep of a sleep. So, then I tried putting a pillow over my head. That did not work. I was so desperate to get rid of the noise I even pulled out my iPhone headphones to try to get rid of the sound. Unfortunately, I could still hear the snoring.
The next day when we got up I was exhausted because I received no sleep. My dad seemed fine. He had slept all night and snored as well. I immediately asked my mom how she dealt with it. She told me that she had just learned to live with it. And, if it got too bad, she nudged my dad indicating to him that he needed to roll over. Chances are you may have a similar story. However, you could be the one on the other end of the story suffering from a snoring problem. Too often, people do not realize how serious snoring is. They let it continue and do nothing to try and prevent it. However, the more you continue to snore, the worse the condition could continue can get.
Preventing snoring may be easier than you think. Often it involves lifestyle changes. For many people it can be related to a health issue. Drinking alcohol or using sleeping aids close to bedtime can cause snoring. Also, smokers are at a higher risk to suffer from snoring than those who do not smoke. Additionally, if you are overweight, you may have excess weight along your throat muscles causing your airway to collapse when you sleep.
There are other things you can do to help with your snoring as well. For some people it is as simple as making an effort to sleep on your side. Also, a good trick is to elevate your head while sleeping so the air can get in. If those do not work, you can always try anti-snoring aids. There are a variety of them on the market today and a lot of them are successful at minimizing snoring.
Tips to Stop Snoring
One of the biggest health risks for Americans is our lack of sleep. For whatever reason, most people do not get the amount of sleep they need. According to health experts, this is not good. Sleep is vital for our survival and our overall wellness. Therefore, we should take every step to ensure that we are getting the best and most efficient nights of sleep possible.
One problem that hinders a lot of people's ability to sleep effectively is snoring. According to studies, 40 percent of men and 25 percent of women suffer from snoring. And, about one-third of people between the ages of 55 to 84 suffer with a snoring problem as well.
Although many people suffer from it, few people seem to be aware of the serious medical consequences that can come from snoring. It is important to eliminate the problem if you have one. In doing so, you will sleep better and be more healthy.
Here are some tips to help you in your efforts:
- Sleep On Your Side. Most people snore when they are lying on their back. Also, when you sleep on your stomach, you put unnecessary stress on your neck.
- Lose Weight. When you have more weight on your body than normal, you most likely have more weight around your neck area. This puts pressure on the airway, which causes it to partially collapse when you breathe while sleeping.
- Avoid Alcohol and Tranquilizers. Alcohol and sleeping pills relax the muscles in your throat and jaw. This makes a person more likely to snore. Also, these substances are known to contribute to the problem of sleep apnea.
- Get Your Allergies Treated. Respiratory problems are often linked to snoring. When you suffer from allergies, you tend to breathe through your mouth while you sleep. If you take an antihistamine before bedtime, it may help.
- Buy a Mouth Guard. You can get this from your dentist or doctor. It will help you to stop snoring by holding your teeth together. It also prevents your lower jaw muscles from becoming too lazy.
- Stop Smoking. Smoking will damage your respiratory system and hurt your breathing.
- Keep a Regular Schedule. Make sure that you sleep enough and that you sleep on routine. Go to bed the same time everyday and wake up the same time everyday.
- See a Doctor if You Are Pregnant and Snoring. Sometimes women snore when they are pregnant because they gain weight and their hormones change. However, you need to make sure your baby is getting the oxygen it needs.
- Elevate Your Head. When you raise your head at night, you take pressure off your airway. This makes it easier for you to breathe.
- You can put blocks under your bedposts or buy more pillows.
Most Effective Snoring Aids
Imagine this scary scenario – You are a month from getting married and your fiancé has decided that she just cannot put up with your snoring any longer. She says she is tired of waking up in the middle of the night from your loud snoring. Everyday she is exhausted because she did not get enough sleep the night before. The problem has become so bad that now she wants out of the relationship. She has decided that no matter how much she loves you she just cannot live like this. She needs her sleep.
Although part of us wants to feel sorry for the poor guy in the story, if you have ever been around someone who snores, than you might be able to empathize with the girl. It is difficult being woken up every night by that ridiculously loud sound, especially if you are a light sleeper. And, chances are, because you love the person you have already tried sleeping through it, putting a pillow over your head, and even earplugs. However, nothing is working. So, it might be time for the guy to time some anti-snoring aids. These aids may be his only hope for saving the wedding.
Anti-snoring aids work to try and keep the airways open while a person sleeps so that they breathe better and do not make loud snoring noises. There are a lot of over the counter aids on the market today. However, the following are ones that people have particularly found to be helpful: * There is a specific pillow that works as an anti-snoring device. It is meant to keep your head in a specific position so that your airways stay open.
- Also, look for devices that keep your nasal airways from getting blocked. The most common are made out of a type of plaster. You stick the just below the bridge of your nose. Additionally, there is another device called a clip that you can place into your nose. It will keep your nasal passage wide and allow air to flow in.
- Another type of device is the jaw support mouthpiece. It keeps your jaw in place so it does not move around during the night.
- The jaw strap is a little bit different than a mouthpiece. It works the same to help people who are mouth breathers, however, it is more comfortable for most people than the mouthpiece.
Try one of the Anti-Snoring aids today. You might find it helpful in curing your snoring problems!
Anti-Snoring Devices Overview
Snoring is an inconvenience that needs to be dealt with. First of all, it is not fun when you make loud noises while you sleep. People often make fun of you. Secondly, your breathing is obviously not optimal while you are sleeping. That cannot be good. And, when you snore, it tends to disrupt your sleep and the sleep of others. Studies have shown that an efficient night of sleep is important to our health.
So, if you snore, not only are you irritating others, but you are also prohibiting your body from optimal health. To help improve sleeping and eliminate snoring, many people turn to anti-snoring devices.
Here are some tips to help you find the right device.
- Read the information on the packaging. Not all products are doctor recommended or approved. However, if a doctor backs the product, than you have more assurance that the product is one that you can trust. Most likely, the product will be more effective than other products on the market.
- Check into the safety warnings. Are any listed on the packaging? If not, ask yourself if you think the product is safe to use? Remember, while you are asleep you will not be able to assess the safety of a product. So make sure to investigate it before you use it. No product should cause additional problems.
- Does the product seem comfortable? Some product designs and materials are uncomfortable for the user. While you are sleeping you do not want to wake up because the device you are using to correct your snoring is causing you pain. Comfort will be key.
- How much does it cost? Is the cost worth it? Most anti-snore devices are affordable, yet some can be expensive. Before you make a big purchase on a device look into the alternatives. There may be a device on the market that is cheaper and will do the same exact thing.
- Does the product come with a guarantee or a warranty? If it does this is a good sign that you are buying a good product that people believe in. Chances are the anti-snore device will work for you or the warranty offer would not be on the table.
Consider all these tips and then choose the best anti-snore device for your needs. Hopefully it will help eliminate your snoring and allow you to rest more peacefully at night!
Is There a Cure For Snoring?
According to research, one out of every four people today suffer from a snoring problem. Usually you think that just men suffer from snoring, however, many women have problems with snoring. It is a frustrating problem to deal with. It gets in the way of a proper sleep and it can often affect the sleep of other people.
We snore at night because the soft tissues of our throat relax and fall into the airway while we are sleeping. When the area is relaxed there is sometimes an excessive vibration of the uvula and the soft palate of the throat. Thus, a loud noise is made resulting in snoring. Many people have tried to treat problems associated with snoring, however nothing seems to really cure the problem. Too often, those who suffer with snoring seem to have to live with the problem.
Today, however there is a new treatment called Somnoplasty. This treatment was developed to specifically address the problem that causes the excessive vibration of the soft palette and uvula during sleep. The treatment is very advanced and one of a kind as far as technology for snoring is concerned. It works to reduce habitual snoring. And, it uses low-power, low-temperature radio frequency energy to create finely controlled clotting lesions beneath the lining of the soft palate and the uvula. The lesions are eventually absorbed over several months. This helps the palate to become stronger and stiffer and it decreases the tissue volume. In time, the problem that causes snoring should be resolved.
The treatment of Somnoplasty is performed under local anesthesia. It is a basic outpatient procedure and it only takes 30 minutes. The great thing about the treatment is it is practically painless. There is little if no recovery involved. The only side effect may be some swelling of the back of the throat. At first, your snoring may increase, but after that, it will begin to decrease.
If you are considering this treatment it is important that you talk with your doctor. They will know more about the procedure and can give you detailed information of exactly how it works. They will also be able to inform you of what to expect. Somnoplasty is a great thing for those that suffer with snoring, so if you are one of them, do not wait too long to speak with a doctor today. It could be the best solution to cure your snoring and help you start to get the rest you need.
Stop Snoring Treatments
There are many times in life when we have a problem and we do everything to try to solve it except the few things that would actually generate results. A lot of women do this when it comes to weight loss. They want to lose weight. So, they exercise extensively. Sometimes, they do crazy diets that they can only manage for a few weeks. They are willing to do almost everything to look thin except eat right. The truth is, eating a healthy diet is the best way for anyone to look her best. And, as you are reading this you are probably nodding your head. So, think for a moment about the number of people out there with snoring problems.
People with snoring problems sleep every night with this problem. Often they wake up others. Most of the time, their sleep is not optimal. And, when it comes to solving their snoring problems, the first thing most snoring sufferers do is seek over the counter remedies. While it is great that these remedies are available, most doctors will tell you that they do not cure snoring. However, instead of seeking the help of a doctor to deal with their snoring problems, some people purchase every snoring remedy on the market. Recently, I read about a sufferer who purchased a silver ring that was supposed to cure his snoring trouble. For those of you out there who suffer from snoring, stop messing around with things that will not work and listen to the counsel that comes from doctors.
They have the following advice:
- Eat better and lose weight. This will do wonders for your snoring.
- If possible, avoid tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and antihistamines before bed.
- Do not consume alcohol, heavy meals, or snacks at least four hours before bed.
- Make sure that your sleeping pattern is routine. You should go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday.
- Sleep on your side, not your back.
- Try tilting the head of your bed up four inches. (If you don't have an adjustable bed, try a few extra pillows to help prop you up)
If none of these tips work, then consider talking to your doctor about your snoring problems. There are certain medical treatments available for snoring. And, you never know, your snoring problem could be more serious than you were aware of. It is always wise to talk to a professional. That way, you can know all of the facts and hopefully overcome your snoring problem.
Which Snoring Remedies Work Best?
Anytime you have a health issue, you're always looking for a way to treat it or deal with it. When it comes to snoring a lot of people seem to just live with it. However, snoring can often get in the way of our health. It disrupts our sleep and the sleep of those around us. And, it is extremely important and vital that we get a proper sleep.
So, we must take the time to figure out how to deal with the problem at hand. And, earplugs are not the solution. Instead, look into remedies. There may be ones out there that actually clear up the blocked airway that is causing you to snore in the first place. However, before you go out and buy your snoring remedy, you need to know which ones will work the best.
Pureline Scoreclipse Nasal Clip
The nasal clips put pressure on the septum. This pressure is supposed to increase circulation in the nose and help the opening of the nasal passage to help cut down on snoring. They are very easy to use and work great. However, for some people, they hurt to wear.
Generic Boxing Mouthpiece
These are basic dental devices that help snorers keep their jaw in the same position while they sleep at night. Although the mouthpiece does work to keep your jaw in place, they look weird. And, according to some users they do not help with snoring that much. However, your snoring may not be related to your jaw. It just depends.
Breathe Right Strips
You put nasal strips across the bridge of your nose. They are supposed to open the nasal passage and make it easier for you to breathe through your nose. For most people, regardless of how effective them may be, it makes you feel like you are breathing better. The downside is they are expensive because you go through one a night. And, the strips tend to leave marks on your face the next day.
Marjoram oil/Electric Aromatherapy Diffuser
Marjoram oil is used as a soothing aid and a respiratory aid. It is nice because you do not have to put anything on your face it just coats the room in a thick air. However, it is not proven to be effective one way or another.
Anti Snore Therapeutic Ring
This ring goes on the left-hand pinky. It is supposed to stimulate the heart meridian and give energy to the upper jiao. Although it sounds nice, it does not work.
How Do I Stop Snoring?
Snoring is a common problem. However, it is annoying and one that most people would like to get rid of. Instead of purchasing earplugs, consider trying to solve the problem related to your snoring. First, you will need to determine which type of snoring you have by performing a simple test. Then, you will be able to determine the correct remedy.
Nose Test
To perform the nose test, look in the mirror and press one nostril closed, leaving the other open. Then, with your mouth closed, breathe in through your nostril. If the nostril seems to collapse try to keep it open with the clean end of a matchstick. If this makes your breathing easier, than it is possible that nasal dilators may solve your snoring problem. Also, do not forget to test both nostrils.
Kleerway Nasal Strips
Breathe Right Nasal Strips
Next. Close your mouth. Try breathing in through your nose. If you are struggling to breathe, you might have nasal stuffiness from allergies.
Mouth Breathing Test
Now, open your mouth and make a noise with your noise like you are snoring. Then, close your mouth and try to make the exact same noise. If you can only make the snoring noise when your mouth is open then you are considered a mouth breather.
Snore Calm Chin-Up Strips
Somni Snore Guard
Tongue Test
Finally, stick out your tongue. Then, place your teeth over it. Now, try to see if you can make the snoring noise. You may be a tongue base snore is the snoring noise is reduced when your tongue is in the forward position. To deal with this problem you probably need a Mandibular Advancement Device.
Tomed Somno Guard AP
MAD Comparison Table
These simple tests can be helpful in determining what kind of snorer you are. The treatments listed are approved by leading doctors, so you can trust them to help you overcome your snoring problems. No one should have to suffer with snoring if there are treatments available. A night without snoring will definitely help you and your partner sleep better and more comfortably. And, treating the issue now will prevent your breathing problems from getting worse. Your health is important. Take the time to ensure that you solve your snoring problems and treat them effectively. You will be so glad that you did.
The Science Behind Snoring
Many people today snore. It can be a nuisance that disrupts your sleep and the sleep of anyone around you. Do you ever wonder what causes you to snore? Snoring happens when the flow of air from your mouth or nose to your lungs makes the tissues of the airway vibrate. Most of the time this is caused by some sort of blockage or obstruction is the nose, mouth, or throat, but the cause usually varies from case to case.
The following are possible causes of snoring:
- You might have enlarged tissues in the nose, mouth or throat. If your child snores, their tonsils may be enlarged.
- It is possible that your nasal passage is blocked. This makes it more difficult to inhale. It also affects the tissues in the throat that pulls together when you are breathing. If your nasal passage is blacked you may suffer from upper respiratory infections, allergy, or nasal polyps.
- For some, you may experience a loss of muscle tone in the throat, which makes it easier for the tissue to collage. Many times this is a result of aging or a lack of fitness.
- Drinking alcohol has been known to cause snoring. It can depress the part of the brain that regulates our breathing. In effect, our tongue and throat muscles become overly relaxed and they tend to black air movement.
- It has also been proven that obesity contributes to snoring. This is because fat in the throat makes the airway smaller.
- If you take medicines to help you relax or increase your drowsiness (allergies, depression, or anxiety) they might contribute to your snoring.
Ideally, when you are sleep, you want to be able to inhale and exhale properly. Unfortunately, someone who suffers from a snoring problem cannot experience this. When they inhale during their sleep, the air enters the mouth or nose and passes across an area referred to as the soft palette (the back of the roof of the mouth). Then it goes to the lungs. There is an area called the uvula that is collapsible. This is located where our tongue and upper throat meet our soft palette. If the uvula collapses, our airway becomes narrow and blocked. Thus, our airflow is disturbed and we are unable to breathe properly. Snoring then results. The narrower your airway is, the louder you snore. Certain factors do increase your risk for snoring. And, if the problem gets worse, it could progress towards sleep apnea, a more serious condition.
Snoring Treatment
Depending on the type of snoring problem you are encountering, there is a snoring surgery for the same; today snoring surgery is believed to be the best way to resolve snoring permanently. Snoring surgery is an easy procedure, which does not take long and is usually successful.
The most common snoring surgery is that of widening the nasal passages so that the air can flow freely. Snoring surgeries are usually performed under total anesthesia and the patient does not feel any pain during or after the procedure. You may have a couple of bruises after the snoring surgery depending on if you have a sensitive skin or not but you will definitely have no more snoring for the rest of your life.
Even if many of us are scared of surgery, the doctors suggest it to be the best way to stop snoring permanently. By having this surgery you will present your partner with a good night's sleep and peace of mind.
Being deprived of sleep can cause different types of side effects such as irritability and no focus capabilities, which can endanger you if you are driving or dealing with dangerous sharp objects. As well, sleeplessness can cause some loss of appetite and even bring on depression.
Therefore, take the step today and approach your doctor for your snoring problem. Relieve yourself but more so those who hear you snoring at night and who will be thankful you chose the snoring surgery.


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Listen to free music by Eastmountainsouth
Blip.fm is internet radio made social. It's easy to search for, play, and discover free music recommended by real people. Join today to create your own free station.
himynameisally rip eastmountainsouth... miss you.
Aug 27, 2012 at 8:22 pm via YouTube | AMAZON | ITUNES
Kioni EastMountainSouth – "Ghost" - Live
May 29, 2012 at 7:49 pm via YouTube | AMAZON | ITUNES
zamfir EastMountainSouth – Rain Come Down
Dec 7, 2011 at 8:45 am via YouTube | AMAZON | ITUNES
Coffeenuts ►GN◄ ~ So Are You To Me
himynameisally lyrics are an excerpt of an abe lincoln speech #hipsterhistory x
Eastmountainsouth – Hard Times| play
ericsvonk [Eastmountainsouth – You Dance ]
KokkinoKritis884fm Eastmountainsouth
iMickeyD they broke up when one of them had a baby, @backtoback i assumed it was the female ☉.◎ they might be back together tho.. ;)))
Jun 7, 2011 at 10:00 am • reply to backtoback | AMAZON | ITUNES
backtoback new to me too... RB @iMickeyD: "thanks sweetie, I had to call the radio station to find out who it was.. rb@backtoback: "BTW super song (reblip)
iMickeyD thanks sweetie, I had to call the radio station to find out who it was.. rb@backtoback: "BTW super song RB @iMickeyD: "" (reblip)
backtoback BTW super song RB @iMickeyD: " (reblip)
iMickeyD but of course! nice of you to ask;) rb@backtoback: "yes I do ...do you? Hey Mickey RB @iMickeyD: "Eastmountainsouth – You Dance"" (reblip)
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Medicaid Waivers: Wrong Cure for High Drug Prices
The Health Care Financing Administration (the agency that runs Medicare and Medicaid) can waive some federal requirements for Medicaid eligibility to allow states to experiment with new ways of delive…
Canada: A Health Care System on the Edge
Patients are lined up in the hallway, stretcher after stretcher. There are so few chairs that anxious relatives stand by the gurneys for hours. A woman with a migraine sits with her hands pressed to h…
Myths about Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
For more than 50 years, America has relied on employers as the primary source of health insurance coverage. For the most part, this has been a successful approach, providing coverage in 1998 to 155 mi…
Comparing Prescription Drug Proposals: Bush v. Gore
The two major presidential candidates, Vice President Al Gore and Texas Governor George W. Bush, are offering competing proposals to deal with the gap in prescription drug coverage.
Defined Contribution Health Insurance
Many employers are concluding that it is time to rethink the way they provide health insurance benefits for their employees.
Reimporting Prescription Drugs
Physicians and patients in the United States have better access to innovative treatments than do those in any other developed country. And the U.S. has become the world leader in biotechnology, includ…
Five Myths about the Uninsured in America
Policy analysts and health care advocates often lament the plight of those Americans who lack health insurance. Yet most overlook the reasons why people do not have health insurance. If income were th…
Uninsured in the Lone Star State
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Miss ya hope you are feeling better! ...I got a new Gackt avi! *drool*
hi, thanks for the comment and umm..... nice avartar.... :()
Thanks a lot i like ur's too. Hotty!!!!!!!!!!!!
nice picture... btw I dont have my email address or yahoo anymore so I can't chat sorries! Hope you are doing well!


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Joshua Cooper and Laurence Chandler formed Rochambeau in 2007, fusing their similar vision of men's fashion and shared inspiration that drives them. Mythologically speaking, bodies of water have always symbolized passage to the afterlife, departed spirits, and the mysteries of death. The collections play off this dark flip side. The palette is composed largely of neutral tones while also containing punches of bright coral and pink, again to convey the contrast between historical and modern symbolism of bodies of water.
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