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Allen's Journal
Friday, March 17, 2017
Response to "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas"
The society is somewhat of one would call a Utopia. No crime, no hate among each other, enough food for everyone who lives there. However, it isn't, because a Utopia means a perfect city where everyone is treated equally. Yet they have a young child in a basement, starving, weak, and possibly dying. All for what one ask? All so the people above, in the city can live a happy life and have everything they need, so the city of Omelas can run properly. They're using the kid as a scapegoat. The visitor describing the place says, "If the child were brought up into the sunlight out of that vile place, if it were cleaned and fed and comforted, that would be a good thing, indeed; but if it were done, in that day and hour all the prosperity and beauty and delight of Omelas would wither and be destroyed." The citizens of Omelas all know the poor kid is down in the cellar, some cry, some become enraged, and some don't even have a reaction. This is because they all know that without the kid, the great city of Omelas would be nothing. I see the kid as a symbol of the selfishness of man. The kid is kept in the basement, mistreated as if he/she were nothing but an animal, just to keep the city of Omelas running. Just like many big corporations force kids or young adults to work with no pay and nearly no food just to keep the company running and gain money. This is essentially how the world is run, on the suffering of others, young and old. Without their suffering, we wouldn't have the clothes we do, or the shoes we put on every morning, or even our food every night at the dinner table. Just like the city of Omelas know that the kid is suffering for them, we know there are people suffering for us. The people who walk away are people who can't take it anymore, who can't stand knowing that they are living the perfect life, while a poor kid is suffering. The people who walk away from Omelas, are in real life the ones.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Response to Graham Hill´s talk
In this short TED talk by Graham Hill on happiness, he states that less stuff equals more happiness. He begins by asking the audience to think about a time they were happy in a small space with very little things. He lists several things such as staying in a hotel room or motel room. He then begins explaining how audience about how much space Americans have now than we use to and suggests that less space and less stuff equals a smaller footprint to save money. He then talks about his own project called "Life Edited" where he went from a 600 square foot apartment to a 400 square foot apartment and how he saved money. Graham Hill got everything he wanted and needed by editing his life to less stuff and less space. He's happier with the small space he has rather than living in a big house. He finishes by saying the box isn't important and he doesn't even need it anymore.
At first I wasn't sure what he was trying to say when saying that less is more and how one feels no different when in a big space or small one while having the same material possessions. The main point of his talk is to show people that there's no point in having a big house if one is just as happy if they were to live in a small one. Just like the example of staying in a hotel room. It reminds people of home because it has all the material possessions and such the only difference is it is smaller. There is no need for so much space or many material possessions because in the end you'll be equally happy. He began with saying he had everything he needed in the box and ended the same way, he even explained how he had nothing but a small bed built into the wall and 400 square feet. It isn't always about how much you have or what you have, but about living life simple and letting happiness come to you.
At first I wasn't sure what he was trying to say when saying that less is more and how one feels no different when in a big space or small one while having the same material possessions. The main point of his talk is to show people that there's no point in having a big house if one is just as happy if they were to live in a small one. Just like the example of staying in a hotel room. It reminds people of home because it has all the material possessions and such the only difference is it is smaller. There is no need for so much space or many material possessions because in the end you'll be equally happy. He began with saying he had everything he needed in the box and ended the same way, he even explained how he had nothing but a small bed built into the wall and 400 square feet. It isn't always about how much you have or what you have, but about living life simple and letting happiness come to you.
Friday, February 3, 2017
"Synthetic or Real Happiness?"
Dan Gilbert's main argument is about why humans are truly happy. Gilbert states that the human brain has nearly tripled in mass because addition of or growth of the prefrontal cortex over the past hundred thousands of years. The prefrontal cortex or lobe helps humans experience simulations or imagination. Gilbert also claims that since our mine has grown we can now sense two forms of happiness which are synthetic and real happiness. Synthetic happiness is when you make the best out of something to make yourself happy. Unlike real happiness which naturally comes form things that you like or are interested in doing. You don't try to make your self happy it just comes to you naturally. People that usually are synthetically happy have either never been naturally happy or have had something happen to them that they try to change in their mind and make it seem happy. It is not always a good thing because there is certain limits to where you can change something to make it seem good, eventually leading people to be depressed and unhappy. There is times where synthetic happiness is good but overdoing it can lead to problems. Which is why people should do things they find interesting while forgetting about pursuing happiness and instead letting it come to them. I found Dan Gilbert's Ted talk interesting because this is the first time hearing about synthetic happiness and realized that I have done it before. I realized that I have synthetic happiness and real happiness. The good thing however is that I usually am happy because I do things I love, rather then being synthetically happy like most people are. Synthetic happiness just makes you happy for that exact moment unlike real happiness in which you remember it long after the moment has happened.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
The main things that make me happy are my family, friends and soccer. I always find joy when I am with my family because they make me laugh and always find a way to make me smile. Whenever I hang out with my friends it's like I'm with another family. They're always making jokes and talking about the good times we've had in the past. Soccer is what truly makes me happy. Every time I go shoot or actually play all my worries and stuff go away. I love soccer and play with everything I got. Sometimes we don't win but I am always happy to play and be part of a team. It feels great to play such an amazing sport. It truly makes me happy. I believe happiness is essential in anyone's life. It's a feeling that sometimes you can't explain but it makes you smile and feel great inside. People need happiness in their life, whether it comes from family or friends, being happy is key to being great in life. When choosing a career it is best to do what makes you happy. If you get a job you dislike then you won't do your job right. However, if you love your job the better you do it and the more you will enjoy it. There is certain factors that take away from that but overall everyone finds happiness in even the worst situations. Everyone has had some feeling of happiness. Happiness is one of many things that is needed in life to live the life they always wanted. No matter what social class, race, or religion anyone can be happy. As long as someone does the things they love, happiness will be there along the way. Just how playing soccer is something I love, and it makes me happy.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Grit is important because it can help people get far in life. Grit is the the amount of passion and perseverance a person has. Grit is the power that someone has in them to continue to do something that they love doing. One person that demonstrates this is my dad. He loves doing construction and never gives up and always finishes the job. He always gets the job done and sometimes even does 3-4 people jobs all by himself. One great athlete who has shown grit is Cristiano Ronaldo. He was diagnosed with a racing heart condition. Everyone was certain he would never be able to play football (soccer) again. Even with this obstacle in his way he believed and knew he could one day play professionally. His passion for the game and the power to perservere through everything he was put through shows the amount of Grit he has. Lionel Messi is also a footballer who had a growth hormone deficiency but instead of closing himself in because of that he set high goals for himself. Eventually he got to his goals later on in his life. This show growth mindset because both Messi and Ronaldo set high goals for themselves knowing there was going to be challenges ahead of them. They perservered through them and which is why growth mindset is important when it comes to grit.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
My life as a reader
Reading isn't really my thing, it's good to do when there is nothing else to do but I don't enjoy it much. The only books that catch my interest a lot are sci-fi, suspense and mystery books. I began reading at the age of 4 and have been reading at a college grade level since 7th grade. When I was in 5th and 6th grade my favorite book series was the Hardy Boys. It was about two brothers who solved cases in their community and areas around it. The suspense in it was great but unfortunately i didn't get to finish reading all the books. One favorite book of mine is To Kill a Mocking bird. The plot of it is great. Another book that I liked was Of Mice and Men, and the story is at times happy but then just downright sad. The book I am currently reading is Frankenstein and so far it is very interesting. The story starts of with letters being sent by the one of the characters to his sister. Overall it great so far and I recommend it. Another book I highly recommend is Shutter Island. It is very suspenseful and has a major plot twist that will leave you mind blown. Reading is something that helps me waste time but it isn't something I love doing. I do recommend however reading as it is good for the brain and learning new words.
Stepping out of my comfort zone
Stepping out of my comfort zone is something I do not normally do unless it is something that somewhat interests me. One time I stepped out of my comfort zone was when I got a pet snake. Now I know that sounds crazy but I've always wanted to have one even though I was slightly afraid of snakes. By getting one I stepped out of my comfort zone and eventually was not afraid anymore. What was interesting about snakes for me was how powerful and smart they were. I was at the time afraid however. A few months pass and my uncle gets a pet snake which is where I get my first experience with holding and feeling a snake. It felt pretty good stepping out of my comfort zone. A few more months passed and I got my first pet snake. It was a small Southern Rubber Boa. The people who owned it before me did not treat it well and it had become wild. This was a problem for me since I didn't know how to properly hold them if they got violent. Although over a course of time I tamed it by holding it as much as possible. This was the second time in only a few months were I stepped out of my comfort zone because I usually don't like doing things without the help of someone who actually knows what they're doing. However I stepped out of my comfort zone once more. I had to feed my snake small mice and this is the first time I would ever see it. I wasn't very fond of seeing an animal being eaten right in front of me but I saw it and it fascinated me. Over the course of 6 months I stepped out of my comfort zone three times and I enjoyed it. Stepping out of your comfort zone isn't always a bad thing, and can sometimes even make you feel better about yourself.
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Some B.C. tech companies hope to benefit from the cloud of fear over doable adjustments to U.S. visas for skilled international staff as they await Canada's new streamlined process for permits to come into effect. From drones to wearables, clever advertising and marketing to area manufacturing, listed here are the 'must-apply' tech hubs of 2016. Whenever you look at the map of Dublin you may actually see how the whole metropolis is dotted with giants like Google, expertise hubs helping the following massive things in tech and begin-ups on their way to success.
Simply over one in three (33.7%) of London's tech corporations said that it has been more durable to develop their business for the reason that EU referendum result. On Saturday evening, Google cofounder Sergey Brin was at San Francisco Worldwide Airport with crowds of protesters.
En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspensión están hechos de goma (una liga química que envuelve un semi-polímero). Notice the acknowledgement that the COMPANY maintains an investment stake in firms. In the meantime, as Zapier observes, even those that can more or less afford San Francisco now could dread the thought of making an attempt to afford a family or a mortgage.
In total, fifty eight corporations, together with Airbnb, Dropbox, Lyft, Square and Wikimedia, signed on. Many of the similar companies joined the same transient in February in opposition to the first version of Trump's ban. Shark Tank star and tech investor Chris Sacca promised to match up to $50,000 worth of donations to the ACLU.
These entrepreneurs search not solely the same benefits — accessibility, local expertise, established tech sectors— as bigger firms, but also the unique ties the Atlanta startup ecosystem has with Israel. The tech sector must be ready and keen to work with coverage makers on points like tech visa reform, STEM skills and regulation in order help the government fulfil its promise of a worldwide, outward wanting Britain.

subset: commoncrawl


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From ash rise the phoenixes
Our guest Ulrike just left yesterday for New York to try her luck in catching the first plane back to Amsterdam. She stayed with us earlier for the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology and was supposed to have left a few days ago. She didn't know she would be stuck for four days in Toronto due to Iceland's volcanic eruption. Before she left she jokingly said that she would have an extraordinary memory of Toronto because of the artwork she kept thinking of and eventually bought from our artshop seemed to have predicted the volcanic ash disruption. The artwork is an etching of two phoenixes flying, now easily depicted as phoenixes rising.
Ulrike fell in love with "phoenixes rising" when she had breakfast in our gallery artshop in the first day of her stay. During the next five days of neurology meeting she kept coming back to look at it. I know that Phoenix is referred as the mythical bird Fenghuang in China, but when I googled, I further learned that Simurgh (Phoenix) originates in Persian mythology, is equivalent also to Firebird in Russia, Bennu in Egypt, Adarna in the Philippines and Garuda in India.
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David Didau has just posted an interesting article on teaching for independence. I wonder if David realizes that this is just what we do in design & technology. The Nuffield D&T Project saw this in terms of two sorts of related task. The major task was called a capability task which involves pupils designing and making a product that meets the needs of a particular user or group of users. Such tasks are very challenging and take several weeks at two lessons a week to complete. If such tasks are not to be daunting and lead to failure it's important that pupils have the opportunity to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills that are likely to be useful in tackling the capability task. This learning opportunity is provided by resource tasks. By introducing the capability task as an initial activity and then exploring with pupils the learning they need to be successful through resource tasks pupils are prepared to tackle a capability task independently. The role of the teacher changes as she/he moves from teaching resource tasks to teaching a capability task. In the former the teacher is almost in the role of instructor, in the latter in the role of consultant or guide with the emphasis on helping the pupil use what they have learned. As pupils tackle the resource tasks there are two key questions – a) what have you learned and b) how might this be useful when you are tackling the capability task. Of course there are opportunities to encourage independence in resource task learning but a requirement to demand it with appropriate support in capability task learning. In the capability task pupils both develop capability which requires independence and reveal the extent of their capability i.e what they can do with what they have learned. There's lot's more about this in the Nuffield Teacher Guide on this site as well as lots of capability tasks and resource tasks.
Teaching for Independence – inspired by David Didau


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Chapter 43: Confirmation Bias! Get it while it's hot!
If you're just joining Biotech Legacy: Long Fall, you can find all of the preceding chapters right here at the Oktopod Blog.
The previous novel, Biotech Legacy: Stars Rain Down, is currently available exclusively through Amazon.
Meanwhile, behind the facade of a mountain…
Chapter 43
Confirmation Bias
It wasn't a helicopter that came for Daniel Grey this time, but a jet. The dark green vulture moaned through the air like a sickly animal, propelled by four large engines that hung from the wings like overripe fruit.
Daniel sat in a sling specially designed to hold him during transit. In a strange way, it felt like his own personal throne, where he could rest and reflect on his most recent fuck-ups; total failures like this mission provided more than enough to mull over during the long trip. Of course, some of it hadn't been in his control, but much of it was. The parts that mattered were, and he'd fucked them up beyond all recognition.
His original objective was to assess and destroy the Ultra Unit belonging to their unholy neighbors to the south, but then that blue son-of-a-bitch showed up. Donovan's Ultra. The sole virtue of Donovan's uselessness to this point had been his commitment to keeping his dick out of places where it didn't belong, but good things never did last.
As for the armor from the Arkangel Compact… Daniel always expected they'd realize the error of their ways, overthrow the alien filth, and return to the flock. But they'd clearly cast their lot with the sinners now, and Daniel finally knew they were well and truly lost.
A young tech with a grease caked face walked up to him. She said, "Evening, Orion. Anything I can do to make you more comfortable?"
A few of the nerve endings inside his shoulder were alight with fire, but he waved her off and she marched away. He wanted to feel the sting of his defeat, lest he forget. Second Revelation had taught him to appreciate the value of remembrance, especially of those things he'd prefer never to think about again.
He was back at Cheyenne Mountain after an hour. The night was dark and pummeled by blustery rainfall, and Daniel's mostly broken sensors picked up little outside the jet. If there were landing lights, he couldn't see them.
The transport set down in a hurry, skids lurching in the gravel, and the ramp came down immediately. Daniel pushed himself up with his one remaining arm, then walked out into the storm, swaying as he went like a forest troll.
He didn't feel the rain. He could hear it dashing against his armor and running down in smooth sheets, but it was just sensor data. He never imagined he'd miss one stupid feeling so much.
He didn't take many steps out onto the landing pad before a small yellow flatbed arrived. It stopped in front of him and the drivers patiently waited for him.
He climbed onto the back and it took off at a good clip into the base, while Daniel sat there sullenly wondering how he'd picked up the nasty habit of leaving limbs on the battlefield. The Battle of the Ark took a leg and a half from him; he callously dropped an arm while facing Samson; and now he'd lost a newer, vastly more expensive arm while confronting demons and race traitors.
The truck delivered him to the secured chamber where Project Orion had taken shape. It was a laboratory and garage that had been his home for the past weeks, and he supposed he liked it about as much as any barracks he'd spent time in.
This return was a little unusual, though. All of the top brass were in attendance, including Colonel Galili and Major Reyes, as well as others Daniel didn't know by name.
He hopped off the truck and it sped away while the heavy bay doors closed. He stepped up to a milling group of bureaucrats and flag officers, and rendered the best salute he could manage with his off arm.
Galili returned the salute and said, "At ease, Grey. Doctor Zakuani, get the mission data downloaded."
The doctor rushed to comply. He was a black man with a slight frame and intense eyes; his lab coat hung loose from his shoulders like it was draped over a chairback.
Doctor Zakuani attached a cable to Daniel's back, and his readout confirmed the file transfer. It only took a few seconds to move a terabyte worth of recordings, then the doctor jogged to his workstation and began to sort through it all.
Major Reyes looked at Daniel with eyes like flecks of quartz. He said, "Tell us what we need to know, Lieutenant."
The man cut right to the chase. Daniel respected that. "I arrived at the objective site at approximately 1945 hours UTC, and engaged an unknown enemy equipped with alien tech. I quickly confirmed his status as an Ultra Unit, and evidence suggests he belongs to Donovan's fleet.
"In short order, the battle was joined by two more Ultra Units, one belonging to the Western Oikeya, and the other to the Arkangel Compact. The fight continued until 1956 hours, when the unknown vessel arrived."
Memories of that moment flashed in Daniel's mind, the twinkling star that descended from the heavens on silver wings. His decorum crumbled. "Then an angel appeared to us, sirs."
"Come again?" Galili said.
"An angel flew down from the ship. I mean, I'd swear to God it was human, but like one right out of His workshop. It spoke with the most beautiful voice… this creature, sir, it was like nothing I've ever seen before. It was… perfect. And it struck the Oikeyan Ultra down, then fucking anointed us its emissaries."
A murmur shot through the officers, and when it passed, Daniel thought he could see confusion and hope in their eyes. That seemed to reflect his feelings all too well.
"What was its message?"
"Well…" Daniel said, thinking back over the scene. "It spoke some language I've never heard, but Donovan's Ultra was able to communicate with it. What he told me might be bullshit…"
"Mr. Grey," Major Reyes said flatly.
"He said it was the Nefrem prince. It's gone to war against its kind, and it wants us to join it… apparently, it's not prepared to take no for an answer, though. I'm to bring our answer by tomorrow."
"How do you think it would react," Reyes asked, "if we told it to go fuck itself?"
Daniel held his tongue for a moment. "From what I've seen, Major… it would kill us all."
The officers talked among themselves while Daniel beat away on a problem: why had Donovan hidden this about his boogie men? He ranted on about the monsters from the stars, but he never once mentioned they were human… let alone such perfect humans.
In the past, he'd thought Donovan was an incompetent and misguided coward. Now, he realized the truth was even darker… Donovan was a damned liar.
"We need to ally with the prince," Daniel said.
Eyes turned on him, angry but inquisitive.
"It's Second Revelation," he said, and Major Reyes rolled his eyes.
Daniel began to recite scripture: "The Adversary will beset the Earth with his demon armies who will rake the cowardly with their horrible claws, and seduce the avaricious to taste of their poisoned fruit. Only the pure and brave will have strength to oppose them. We the faithful must choose ourselves, and for our righteousness and piety, the Lord will send his angels to walk among us and fight by our side. Thus shall we stand victorious and walk the road to life everlasting in the savior's warm embrace."
Stunned silence greeted him.
Doctor Zakuani finished the passage. "For the universe is our eternal dominion… and the Lord's only son, our immortal king."
Major Reyes looked to be chewing on a mouthful of nuts and bolts. He'd never been a true believer, and casual heresy ran rampant in his wing of the organization. He stroked his beard tensely and said, "Your dog is foaming at the mouth, Galili."
"You will address me," Daniel growled through a slashed speaker.
Reyes barked, "I'll address whoever I damn well please, soldier!"
Daniel's voice came slow and powerful. "How can you hope to win without the Lord's love in your heart?" he asked. "If it isn't faith, what drives you, Major?"
"I have faith, you fucking idiot. But I've also got enough wits about me not to fall for every crackpot full of bullshit that comes spewing in my direction. This insanity needs to stop."
Daniel Grey realized that deep down inside, he agreed. The insanity was weakening the Union and leaving them ripe for attack; it needed to stop immediately.
He sweapt across the room so quickly that no human could have reacted in time. He gripped the major's head in his hand, lifted him off the ground, and crushed the feeble brain inside his skull.
Screams erupted from the other officers, and Daniel saw it only as craven faithlessness. If they had felt God's touch as he had, they would understand that all strength arose from His will alone… and they'd know that once embraced, no force could defeat them.
These empty suits weren't brave enough to spit in the face of demons, nor proud enough to march in the company of angels. The duty fell to him to cull them from the crusade.
The slender doctor stood unmoved by Daniel's brutality.
When Daniel was finished, he stopped and allowed the fresh blood to wash off his non-stick armor. It pooled under his mechanical feet, and washed down the single, central drain.
Next will be Chapter 44: To Live and Wander, either later tonight or sometime tomorrow.
Copyright 2013. All rights (currently) reserved.


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Beach Lovers Pendant, ceramic pendant, nature lovers pendant, ceramic jewellery
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Handmade from creamy white porcelain, this beautiful ceramic statement necklace is a part of my signature LEAVES collection.
The characteristics of it are leaves in all sorts of bright colours and shapes. This fine necklace is perfect for adding something unique and vibrant to your beach and Summer outfits.
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The Lost Quilter
Jennifer Chiaverini
Publisher:Simon & Schuster
Master Quilter Sylvia Bergstrom Compson treasures an antique quilt called by three names — Birds in the Air, after its pattern; the Runaway Quilt, after the woman who sewed it; and the Elm Creek Quilt, after the place to which its maker longed to return. That quilter was Joanna, a fugitive slave who traveled by the Underground Railroad to reach safe haven in 1859 at Elm Creek Farm.Though Joanna's freedom proved short-lived — she was forcibly returned by slave catchers to Josiah Chester's plantation in Virginia — she left the Bergstrom family a most precious gift, her son. Hans and Anneke Bergstrom, along with maiden aunt Gerda, raised the boy as their own, and the secret of his identity died with their generation. Now it falls to Sylvia — drawing upon Gerda's diary and Joanna's quilt — to connect Joanna's past to present-day Elm Creek Manor.Just as Joanna could not have foreseen that, generations later, her quilt would become the subject of so much speculation and wonder, Sylvia and her friends never could have imagined the events Joanna witnessed in her lifetime. Punished for her escape by being sold off to her master's brother in Edisto Island, South Carolina, Joanna grieves over the loss of her son and resolves to run again, to reunite with him someday in the free North. Farther south than she has ever been, she nevertheless finds allies, friends, and even love in the slave quarter of Oak Grove, a cotton plantation where her skill with needle and thread soon becomes highly prized.Through hardship and deprivation, Joanna dreams of freedom and returning to Elm Creek Farm. Determined to remember each landmark on the route north, Joanna pieces a quilt of scraps left over from the household sewing, concealing clues within the meticulous stitches. Later, in service as a seamstress to the new bride of a Confederate officer, Joanna moves on to Charleston, where secrets she keeps will affect the fate of a nation, and her abilities and courage enable her to aid the country and the people she loves most.The knowledge that scraps can be pieced and sewn into simple lines — beautiful both in and of themselves and also for what they represent and what they can accomplish — carries Joanna through dark days. Sustaining herself and her family through ingenuity and art during the Civil War and into Reconstruction, Joanna leaves behind a remarkable artistic legacy that, at last, allows Sylvia to discover the fate of the long-lost quilter.
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There have only been three things circulating the news for the last 24 hours: Trump, Trump, and Trump.
But what's happened?
Comey happened. From President Trump firing him, to the revelation that Trump asked Comey to shut down the F.B.I. investigation into Michael Flynn to the push for Comey to testify about what he knows, things are going downhill fast for the White House.
"We need to see the memo, (…) We need to have Comey come in and testify." – Republican Senator Marco Rubio
In fact, things are going south so fast that the GOP is panicking. Politico reports that Hill Republicans have started looking at a president Pence option, and are wondering if Trump will last the year. Many are also extremely unhappy with the White House's lack of damage control and are worried about how the constant creation of new scandals will hurt their legislative agenda, which has pretty much stalled as Republicans are busy trying to deal with the chaos that has gripped Washington.
One White House official described the current situation by saying, "we are kind of helpless."
According to a report by the New York Times of a memo written by James Comey himself, Trump asked Comey to "let things go" surrounding the federal investigation into Michael Flynn. This is seen to be a direct attempt by Trump to influence the investigation into the ties between his campaign and the Russian Government.
Even discussions regarding impeachment have risen. Although the GOP isn't quite ready yet to abandon their president, sources have documented that some GOP members of Congress, such as Rep. Justin Amash (Mich.), support the idea of impeachment if the Comey allegations are true.
House Oversight Chairman Jason Chaffetz has also asked Comey to come forward with his alleged memos against Trump, which is an idea already currently supported by Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan. With the increased need for Comey to testify publicly, everything is up in the air.
Another recent addition to the ongoing story that is Trump and Russia is the absence of media involvement into meetings between Trump, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russias Ambassador to the U.S. Sergey Kislyak. Representative Barbara Comstock of Virgina states that "we need to have immediate classified briefings on what occurred at this meeting [between Trump and Putin] so that Congress can at least know as much as Russian leaders and know the impact on our national security, our allies, and our men and women protecting our country."This story will continue to surround the White House as Putin is now supposedly releasing records of the controversial meeting.
Whatever is happening in Washington is sure to spill over. With foreign policy issues, such as the looming tensions with North Korea and the 9- day trip Trump's is taking to "Saudi Arabia, Israel, Belgium, Italy and the Vatican" coming up on Friday, also up in the air, anything can happen.
But what's going to happen the next four years? Who knows. If the current political climate stays the same, the House and Senate might respond to the impeachment claims. With the countless amounts of scandals already surrounding just the first few months of his administration, interesting events are sure to happen.


text: The attacks on Christians and on the Church in America are increasing day by day. Pray for those who are in the midst of this war for truth and freedom. It is amazing how many Americans today seem ready to roll over and accept the loss of our freedoms. Surely, it's time to stand up for America.


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North Melbourne, November 2014
Viv looking super cool in her grey nikes and blue hair (but also unable to open her eyes). This was when I was in Melbourne after we'd had an amazing breakfast at this cool little place in North Melbourne called Auction Rooms.
March 14, 2015
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Thursday, November 5, 2009
thank you Valley of the Sun JCC preschool!
It was a beautiful day in Scottsdale!
fabrications2B hopes everyone is enjoying their new fabulous items and gifts! many of your custom orders will be available at upcoming shows.
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George Mavroudis - "Under African Skies"
Photographic Exhibition titled "Under African Skies" by George Mavroudis
Opening night: Friday, 7 April at 7:30pm
The opening will be officiated by the First Lady, Mrs Andri Anastasiadou.
All proceeds will be donated to the "Theotokos Foundation"
Opening hours
Saturday: 10:00 - 13:00 & 16:30 - 18:30
Sunday: 10:00 - 13:00
George Mavroudis, professional safari guide, photographer and naturalist is a third generation Tanzanian, born in Dar Es Salaam. Educated in Tanzania, the United Kingdom and Cyprus, his enthusiasm for "the bush" was evident at an early age. His earliest and fondest memories are of family trips into the wildernesses of Tanzania, be it a remote corner of Serengeti National Park, or the idyllic islands and marine reserves of coastal Tanzania.
After completing his secondary & military education in Cyprus, George spent time in Zimbabwe, working in conservation based positions, gaining further exposure to the bush and as well, the wildlife & environmental issues faced by sub-Saharan Africa.
George returned to East Africa and began his guiding career with Abercrombie & Kent, as well as Ker & Downey Tanzania, establishing his name in the industry. In 1992, he went on to start George Mavroudis Safaris. His steadfast belief that the quality of guiding is the single most important factor in the guest experience has led to his success as a top safari operator in East Africa and for this, George was recognized in Travel & Leisure's 2008 annual publication as offering one of the "100 Greatest Trips of 2008". He has also had the pleasure of facilitating and participating in several films and documentaries, notably the I-Max production "Africa, The Serengeti" and "Rivers of Life". He has been fortunate in his career to have worked in conjunction with some of his personal heroes in conservation, namely Jane Goodall and Tony Fitzjohn, among others.
George's passion for photography developed early in life. While most of his photographs highlight his appreciation for the biodiversity of East Africa, his close relationship to the people and tribes of the area are also evident in his work. Throughout his career, George has enjoyed capturing the beauty, traditions and cultural intricacies inherent to the area through film. His favorite subjects, are the Wahadzabe hunter-gatherers of Northern Tanzania, the Samburu of Northern Kenya and the various Ethiopian groups, in their traditional and often religious regalia.
When George is not on safari, he enjoys spending time with his three children, whom are all currently pursuing their education and careers in the United States. He is an avid reader and antique book collector and most enjoys the works of Robert Ruark and Lawrence Durrell. When possible, he also enjoys horseback riding and spending holidays with family in Cyprus. In 1995, George became the Consul to Cyprus in Tanzania and he still enjoys this important role within the Cypriot community.
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Media Bottle 2000ml
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- Item #: 2 liter media
GL45 thread size fits all of the 45mm bottle top vacuum filters that we carry. Chemically resistant and graduated for easy dispensing and storage! Furnished with one-piece, polypropylene, plug seal, and linerless cap. Clear polypropylene, drip-free pouring rings. Autoclavable to 121C.
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Our photo shoot has been featured today in Brenda's Wedding Blog. and thanks so much to Brenda for including it. http://ht.ly/hQ4XS
Last December I was approached by a lovely bride for a winter backyard wedding. First thoughts were, it's cold, but then as I glanced out the window, I thought of all the wonderful winter themes we see each day…twigs and bark with that amazing finish, the little birds that chirp each morning, even in a cold and snowy winter day, and the moss colored greens, purples and deep copper tones in the backyard.
Please visit Brenda's Blog and take a peek at our design. We want to thank so much all the designers and wedding vendors who participated in our shoot: Sun* Kissed Bridal, P.S. I Love Soap Company, Elle-Brides, and M. Blanchard Designs in Etsy. Styling and florals by EightTreeStreet, with the most gorgeous photography by Teresa Wood Photography.


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today marks the beginning of our "christmas break" and it's exciting that we have
some down time to be together and shop for family and just relax.
i really enjoy blogging (mostly reading) and find so many women who are just so dang crafty.
it inspires me to try new things and not be afraid to just run with an idea.
i really want to use this break to
a. learn how to use a sewing machine (i vaguely know, but need to be taught again)
b. run/ exercise even more than i am now.
c. cook outside of the box
d. spend time with the Lord
i think these next few weeks could be pretty great!
the biggest loser is so stinkin great.
we watched the finale tonight and i gasped, cried, screamed and oh my gosh'ed about 50 times.
it's incredible the transformations these people go through.
jan 5. season 9!
ps. i think clean sheets may be one of my very favorite things.


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Kvamme Travel can organize the perfect vacation for families of any size. Wherever you choose to go, we'll make the arrangements so your family can spend more time having fun.
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Spend some quality time with your family on an exciting getaway and leave the details to us.


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Tuesday, December 14, 2010
chiseled luxe
Spied these stunning gems on Daily Candy and then went to the site better late than never .
I've really never been a fan of diamonds or gold, but over the past few years, I have started wearing gold. It looks better, richer with my Scottish complexion and slightly dark auburn hair.
These are so bewitching in their sort of rawness, but seemingly architectural beauty. I'm a fan of straight edges, spikes, old world with a modern bent. Who would have thought that that I would succumb so quickly to diamonds? This artist & jeweler has some other drool worthy pieces, but I'll take these.
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Saint John Neumann studied in Bohemia. He desired to become a foreign missionary in the United States. His wish came true and in 1836 he was ordained a Roman Catholic priest and bore the hardship of serving the population in the Niagara region for four years building churches and schools. Children loved him.
In 1840 he became a Redemptorist and 10 years later he was consecrated the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia.
His diocese covered a large geographical area and he travelled it by foot, horseback, canal boat, railroad and stage coach.
He was fluent in eight languages and had a hunger to save souls.
He was instrumental in the establishment of parochial schools in America and helped his flock by inviting several religious orders to work in his diocese. He founded a group of the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis.
His earthly trial lasted 48 years and died worn out working for the salvation of souls. He was declared "venerated" during the pontificate of Benedict XV, declared "blessed" in 1963 and canonized a saint in 1977.
Prayer For The Intercession of Saint John Neumann
Saint John Neumann, pray that we may know and love the Eucharist as you did.
Give strength and courage to the Vicar of Christ.
Protect our bishops, priests and religious.
May all peoples be zealous for the kingdom of God.
Enlighten the minds of people who seek truth.
May your prayers comfort the souls of our departed brethren.
Saint John Neumann, pray that we may live and die in the state of grace.
Dear Jesus, Thank You for the graces You bestowed upon Saint John Neumann. Amen.


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This limited Edition version of the Genesis is made to order and ships in 3 weeks.
The biggest innovation in this new version is that the battery is now mounted in the downtube of the frame.
This new design allows for a better balanced bike and increased protection of the battery from the elements.
The battery is equipped with Samsung cells that add up to 14.25Ah of energy.
This higher capacity battery is necessary for the more powerful 600w motor.
The braking system has also been upgraded to SRAM DB1 Hydraulic Disc Brakes and the RockShox XC28 provides more robust suspension.
The Genesis has evolved into a comfortable commuter with better performance and power.
An "Industry Best" 2 Year front to back parts manufacturer's warranty with no pro-rating comes standard.
Speed: 20 mph*
Distance between charges: 25 – 30 Miles*
+ Frame: 6061 Aluminum Alloy + Frame Finish: Polar White Gloss + Components Finish: Black & White + Fork: RockShox XC32 120mm + Headset: CNC Machined Sealed + Stem: Promax Alloy 40° 25.4 + Handlebar: Promax Cruiser 610mm + SeatPost: Promax Alloy 27.2 x 350 + Seat Clamp: Promax CNC Machined 31.8 + Saddle: Velo 6202 Plush 275 x 203 + Power Application:Variable 1/2 Twist Throttle + Grips: Kraton w/ Alloy Lock Rings + Shifter: SRAM X7 - 8 Speed + Derailleur/Gear: SRAM X7 + Cassette/Freewheel: SRAM PG-850 11-32T + Crankset: Truvativ E400 42T + Chain: KMC X8.93 + Bottom Bracket: Truvativ Power Spline + Pedals: HTI A120SS Sealed + Brake Calipers: SRAM DB1 Hydraulic Disc + Brake Rotors: SRAM Centerline 180mm + Tires: Conti Town & Country 2.1 + Rims: SC J32M Triple Box 36H + Spokes: 18/8 Stainless Steel 12G + Hub: Aluminum 12G Sealed + Battery Volt/Amps: Samsung 18650-29E 50 Cell + Motor: PTech 36V 600W Geared + Charger: Modiary 41V 2A + Charge Cycles: 1000 @ 41V + Weight w/ Battery: 54 LBS
* Rider Weight, Rider Input and Terrain Contingent
The Genesis R v5 is built to order - so they take 7 - 10 days to build and prepare for shipping.


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Score: 46
Indonesia has prioritized food sovereignty in its National Medium-Term Development Plan. Food security and malnourishment significantly improved between 2009 and 2015.
Despite improvement, progress is at risk of regressing if challenges, such as the potential for climate-related hazards, are not addressed. Strengthening its ability to adapt to the consequences of natural disasters, deforestation, and climate change will be crucial to avoiding temporary food insecurity.
Score Details
Areas for Improvement
There are concrete goals policy makers can work towards to improve food security in Indonesia:
- Indonesia's relatively low ease of doing business deters investment that could add to growth in the agriculture sector, increasing food security
- Indonesia has a very high rate of mobile phone use, therefore efforts to reduce poverty and improve agricultural productivity should focus on maximizing access to affordable technology


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Friday, June 17, 2011
Need Of Pressurized Walls?
For those who want to save money in their apartment rental, here's a video I found that could help you especially if you're planning to install a pressurized walls in your apartment.
Posted by Wall2Wall at 6:15 PM No comments:
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This word was the theme of today's yoga class. During class I would reflect back on this word and its significance and relevance to my everyday life. Amber, my instructor for the day, made some amazing points concerning how the North American attitude is that of a more "independent" lifestyle. In fact, I would argue, we pride ourselves on our independence. However, I think it is central to the health of a nation or a planet for that matter, to ingrain in ourselves that our actions effect everyone around us. We don't live in a bubble, we are a part of a community, and it is vital that we all do our part to ensure we leave our communities in good health for future generations.
To live interdependently expresses our connection to every human and non-human animal around us. We must not simply see animals as means to fulfill our independent lives full of greed and gluttony. Animals and people should be working together, sharing our community, making our earth healthier for our children and our children's children.
Days can come and go so fast to the point when a year flies by in what feels like minutes. If we set an intention of interdependence, we can guarantee that we will work together, instead of against our community. The results will be amazing.
When we support the slaughter and suffering of innocent animals, we are choosing an independent, selfish life, that not only destroys the environment and ecosystems, but proclaims to the world a refusal too work together in harmony with the earth.
Think about it.
Interdependence is and ought to be as much the ideal of man as self-sufficiency. Man is a social being. Without interrelation with society he cannot realize his oneness with the universe or suppress his egotism. His social interdependence enables him to test his faith and to prove himself on the touchstone of reality.


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IMPERFECT LOVE Kindle World, a fabulous new series featuring strong alpha heroes who get knocked sideways when they suddenly begin noticing the heroine in a whole new light. In partnership with Kendall Ryan & these amazing bestselling authors: Kelly Elliott, Adriana Locke, Mandi Beck, T. Gephart, Kim Karr, Cora Kenborn, Magan Vernon & Natasha Madison. Sexy, laugh-out-loud funny, and sweet at times, this series is all about exploring romance tropes like friends to lovers, fake fiancé, arranged marriage, surprise pregnancy, budding office romances, and more, that all share one fabulous thing in common--they end in a happily ever after.
JOIN THE GROUP FOR ALL THE NEWS: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1071142436331446/
FAMED by Magan Vernon:
On the heels of Mary James leaked sex tape - totally a fake one to make her boyfriend jealous she might add- she needs some PR help if she ever wants her acting career to end up in a fiery hell like her love life. Chris Garcia has been working his way up from mail room clerk to junior associate at Tate & Cane and now to get to the next rung of the corporate ladder he has to take on the firm's toughest client: Mary James. With a little help from a nosey Aunt Rosita and Mama Garcia, the two decide the best way to move forward is simple: a fake relationship. But what happens when something fake gets to be too real and FAME gets involved?
One-Night Stand-In - T. Gephart
Sarah Madison loved working at Tate & Cane Enterprises. While she looked and, for the most part, acted conservatively—she was a gladiator in the boardroom. The fast-paced, energetic work environment not only fed her need for corporate blood but also allowed her to work for one of her role models, Olivia Cane—living proof a woman really can have it all. And after months of paying her dues, she was finally offered the promotion she'd been vying for. Which was great, except for the fact she had to share the position with a new guy they brought in especially for the role. Kyle Drake was smart, experienced, and probably just as good, if not better, in negotiations. And if she wasn't careful, prove he could do the job without her. Add in good-looking and an incredibly sexy smooth talker, and everyone in the office either wanted to be him or sleep with him. Which Sarah could have totally ignored if he hadn't been the stranger she'd married in Vegas during a fake ceremony six months earlier. He was supposed to be her one-night stand, a stand-in for a ceremony that wasn't even legally binding. They were never even going to see each other again. Hell, she apparently hadn't even known his real last name at the time. It was the only time she'd ever done something completely reckless and spontaneous. It figured that one time would come back and bite her where it hurt.
Becoming the new Marketing Manager at Tate and Cane was a game changer. I was hell bent on proving I deserved this job, and that it wasn't my cousin Sterling Quinn who had helped me score the new job title. Him being one of the CEO's best friend—didn't help the rumors. Well screw that. Ten years of sweat and hard work was the reason I was sitting in a large corner office with a killer Manhattan view. More focused than I'd ever been, it was time to take the bull by the horns. And God help the person who stood in in my way. ******** Things I left behind in Seattle, Washington: A promising career at a top marking firm, the past I was desperate to escape, and obviously my sense of direction. It was because of all of those reasons I was standing in the middle of New York City lost and cursing at my phone. If I didn't get to Tate and Cane soon, I wouldn't only be late, but also blow the chance to make the good impression on my new boss, Mason Quinn. And I needed that more than anything. One wrong turn, an unfortunate collision, and an expensive suit drenched in my soy chia tea latte was not how I wanted to start my first day. Then there was the other little problem I had. The drop dead gorgeous man whose suit I'd ruined was my new boss. And boy did he look pissed.
I was rich, single, and connected, which meant a steady diet of beautiful women wherever I went. I really did think I had the perfect life. Until I went and married a supermodel I'd just met, and everything changed. Of course there were choices. But the word annulment meant giving her up, and I never give up anything. Still, I was a bachelor at heart, and having a wife, well, I didn't really know what to do with that. After only forty-eight hours of marriage, I had already gone and screwed everything up. Now I have thirty days to prove to my new wife that I'm husband material. There's only one problem—I don't even know what husband material means. However, I'm certain that won't stop me from excelling at it. My wife tells me it isn't going to be easy. That I have numerous issues to overcome. First, there's my jealousy. It needs to be tamed. Did I flip over the fact that her latest picture was causing men around the world to do dirty things all over the covers she graced? Hell, yes. I couldn't help myself though. When her photo went viral, my caveman instincts kicked in, and I demanded she quit her job and stay home—barefoot and pregnant in my kitchen. I can work on that, right? Then there's my mother. I need to convince her that my new wife is not the money hungry floozy she called her. Did my mother actually call her that? Yes. I can't help it that my mother wants me to get rid of my new wife. The problem is what my mother wants, she always gets one way or another. Still, turning my mother's opinion around can't be that hard, can it? There are many other issues, but according to my new wife, those are minor compared to the biggest one—she says I will never be able to accept being tied down. Don't worry—I got this one. I intend to prove to her in no uncertain terms that being tied up, down, or horizontal is just what this Upper East Sider needs.
Battle of the Sexes Adriana Locke
Carver Jones' partner at Jones + Gallum had to step down for medical reasons. He's absolutely devastated. He swears. Just ignore his cheeky grin, okay? When word reaches his fancy corner office that Gallum is replacing himself with his daughter, Amity, Carver is ecstatic. For real this time. Jones squashes men in the business industry flat. A woman? Pfst. He'll be completely in charge in no time, doing whatever he wants. He's so ready for this. But is he ready to fight the hardest fight of his life? No, not the one to maintain control of his company. The one to keep control of his heart. The battle may begin in the boardroom, but the war will definitely be won in the bedroom. May the best sex win.
My thoughts:
If you've read Hitched (like I have), it was nice to see an appearance from Noah Tate and Olivia Cane in this cute office romance/friends to lovers tale. Amity and Carver's story was made even more compelling because of their complicated history and the competition that they were both suddenly forced in to. While the blurb might imply that Carver is a bit of a sexist, I didn't find that to be the case at all (which was a relief). As we delve in to their blossoming and evolving relationship, I continually found myself wondering how the unique situation they were in was going to come to a head, and am very happy to say that I was actually really surprised (and pleased) by the resolution. They got the best HEA possible for them. Battle of the Sexes gets 3.75 wine glasses from me.
UNSUPERVISED by Cora Kenborn Niall
A non-existent love life, unstable paycheck, and a six-year-old who'd rather hit boys than books sound more like a cry for help than a dating profile. On paper, it would seem like I need a life coach, but I've managed to get a decent grip on the single-dad thing. My love life, on the other hand, is an entirely different story. With my sexy Irish accent, I should have women of all ages losing their minds, but I seem to attract only a certain type—crazy. The last thing I want is a new relationship, but I need a date for my company's charity function. A chance meeting with a tall, leggy blonde who looks like she could use a night out is the perfect solution. Beautiful, sane, and she has a kid? We have a winner. I didn't count on Laken being unforgettable. Unlike all the other fake women I've met in this city, she's real. And if there's one thing I value more than anything, it's honesty. Laken I didn't bust my ass in college to be a nanny. Unfortunately, a 4.0 GPA and sucking up to the owner's sister did nothing to secure a coveted Tate & Cane Enterprises internship. I'm not proud of being a nanny-for-hire to get my foot in the door, but my wealthy socialite employer has the ears of company executives. Swallowing my pride, I do what I need to—until an afternoon at the park changes everything. I don't mean to let him think Preston is my kid, but he just assumes. This isn't me. I'm not a liar. Although his panty-melting accent does unspeakable things to me, I should set the record straight. There's only one problem. Niall is a freelance photographer for Tate & Cane and invites me to a company event as his plus-one. He's my "in." If I can hold on to this charade long enough, I can get the job and the man of my dreams. I'm winging this completely unsupervised. Game on.
TWISTED by Mandi Beck
Three friends walk into a bar . . . One walks out the fake girlfriend of a hot, bearded Scotsman. Fannin McGuire is up for promotion at Tate and Cane Enterprises, but first she has to make it through her stepsister's wedding. To Fannin's ex. Yep. Her ex-fiancé is about to be her new brother-in-law. One big happy family. And lucky her, she also gets to work with him. While Fannin is putting all of her energy into her career, her ex is putting all of his energy into making her life hell. Just when Fannin is sure she'll be attending the wedding without a plus one, in walks Jasper James to save the day. He's the bartender at the Iron Flask, the account she's trying to land, and everything she didn't know she needed or wanted. Before Fannin knows what's happening, Jasper is playing knight in shining armor and she likes it. And him. A lot. With his smooth Scottish accent, ridiculously good looks, and that beard? She doesn't stand a chance. Jasper isn't in the habit of rescuing anyone. But when Fannin is confronted by her ex about her lack of a date for his upcoming nuptials, Jasper can't help but step in. Her wild hair, violet eyes, and killer legs have him doing a few things he normally wouldn't. Never mind that he shouldn't be getting involved with the woman in charge of making the bar a global success. Their fake relationship becomes more real than either thought it would. Now they're at the mercy of their feelings when truths are twisted, and the lies don't taste as smooth as the whisky.
CHEEKY by Natasha Madison
Bradley Fitch has it all. A suave job, a gigantic trust fund, and an accent that makes panties drop faster than the speed of light. His new life in New York City is fast-paced and furious, but it's nothing a little getaway can't cure. What says party and unwind like Las Vegas? Nothing. Plus, whatever happens there has to stay there. When his best friend bails, he finds himself sitting on the plane next to his best friend's sister. She's off-limits—proverbial caution tape wrapped around her body. Of course, she's also totally ball busting gorgeous. Lexi Quinn fell in love with Bradley at eight years old and then vowed to kill him at eight and a half. What was supposed to be a romantic week away is turning into a nightmare. Her ex is actually married, her luggage is lost, and her reservation is cancelled. And she's sitting next to the man she swore to hate forever One week. No strings attached. What is the worst that could happen? It's all fun and games till this British bad boy gives new meaning to BBC and becomes a little bit too cheeky.
This was my first Natasha Madison book but it most definitely won't be my last (which is good since I have Something So Right, Tempt the Boss, and Pieces of Heaven in my library but haven't read them yet)! I love the "best friend's sibling" trope and this one was done so well. It was so fun and cute and sexy and I just loved Bradley and Lexi - their history made the connection so much more than insta love and insta lust. He was so generous and attentive and she was so bold and open and I just LOVED them! And I love how they handled the big reveal to her brother, as well as how well they communicated when they hit a bump in the road (I'm a big fan of people talking their ish out and moving on/getting over it for the greater good - love). I will definitely be rereading this beauty - it gets five out of five wine glasses from me, no question!
My thoughts:
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 2 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine. She lives in Texas with her husband and two sons. Subscribe to Newletter Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page


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MOSCOW, March 3 (Itar-Tass) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Vyacheslav Zaitsev on the 75th anniversary, the Kremlin website said on Saturday.
A bright and talented artist and a daring innovator, Zaitsev has done much for the development of modern applied art and broke the habitual notions of design and fashion, the telegramme noted.
With his great work capacity and devotion to the work and of course the impeccable sense of style, he has earned worldwide recognition and unquestioned authority among professionals. Every fashion show of the couturier becomes a significant event and a festival of creative work, talent and beauty, the president noted.
Putin wished Zaitsev inspiration, successes, good health and all the best.
The People's Artist of the Russian Federation marked his 75th anniversary with a gala night in the State Central Concert Hall "Rossiya" in Moscow on Saturday. The show "75 Years of Joy of Life" was a kind of a creative report of the master to his admirers. In the programme were a gala show, in which he presented some works from his fashion collections reflecting the master's creative way from 1985 to 2013. For many of them, he received state awards and prizes of other countries.
After the graduate from the Textile Institute presented his first models of clothes, the world recognized him as Soviet "Dior", ranking him among the world's leading couturiers. The foreign public admired his works.
Zaitsev is a member of the Russian Academy of Arts, People's Artist of Russia, Doctor of Arts and a professor. He was awarded state prizes and a presidential prize.


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A suspect in a Novato murder conspiracy case lost his bid Wednesday to have evidence suppressed at the upcoming trial.
Deandre Blay's lawyers argued that police violated his constitutional rights when they took his cell phone on Sept. 17, 2008, and analyzed it without a warrant. The phone was seized from Blay after he ran from police who cruised into his neighborhood in San Francisco.
At the time, Blay was a person of interest in the murder of Tong Van Le four days earlier in Novato. Information derived from the phone apparently helped authorities build their murder case.
In a pre-trial hearing Wednesday afternoon before Judge Terrence Boren, one of Blay's defense attorneys, Carl Gonser, said the confiscation of the phone violated Blay's Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable search and seizure, and that any information derived from it was inadmissible.
The prosecution argued that because Blay was on juvenile probation, and thus subject to random searches, police had the right to take the phone and examine it. Boren agreed.
"It was not unreasonable for the officers to seize it," Boren said.
Outside court, Gonser and co-counsel Tracy Barrett and District Attorney Ed Berberian declined to comment on what evidence was found on the phone. Much of the material in the case remains under seal.
With Boren's ruling Wednesday, the case moves ahead to other defense motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the indictments. Hearings resume Nov. 1, with the jury trial set to begin Feb. 22.
Blay and five other San Francisco residents were indicted last year in the death of Le, who was gunned down in 2008 at his home in the Hamilton area of Novato. Authorities said Le, 44, was murdered to prevent his testimony against Blay's brother, Larry Blay, in a robbery at Le's liquor store in San Francisco.
Deandre Blay, 19, Larry Blay, 20, Sean Washington, 24, Kevin Abram, 19, and C. Autis Johnson III, 19, have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, forcibly preventing or dissuading a witness from testifying, and conspiracy to prevent or dissuade a witness.
Johnson's mother, 35-year-old Anchulita Uribe, has pleaded not guilty to being an accessory after the fact. Authorities said Uribe, the only defendant who is free on bail, tried to find and discard the murder weapon.
The suspects live in a Bernal Heights public housing complex near Le's liquor store.
Contact Gary Klien via e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com


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How Much You Need To Expect You'll Pay For A Good online chatSuggestion: One way to communicate Anything you love is by exhibiting your husband or wife how you want to the touch you. Masturbating before a spouse is both equally scorching and useful! Should your spouse can look at just how you stroke your penis/rub your clitoris or utilize a sex toy, she or he can touch you in comparable strategies.
Sexual boundaries: What are the sexual actions or fantasies You're not ready to investigate? Are there destinations on your body that you don't wish to be touched?
D. concluded And that i didn't. After which as we were chilling on the mattress, I begun tearing up all over again. Plainly, I had been within an psychological mood. And D. just hugged me until I manufactured a joke regarding how he should really in all probability dump me now since I used to be definitely turning into that Female
Having said that, each both you and your spouse will understand that it might be a possibility to see flaws in one another, and that vulnerability also makes doing exercises alongside one another a extremely intimate act. If you need to give this a consider to you personally intend to make it as hot as you can, test heading for any swim alongside one another at a local pool. Problem one another to view who can swim the speediest from one particular aspect of the pool to the other.
Getting a lot more vocal is a great way to usher yourselves in to the present moment. You could share the belongings you're having fun with, one example is, "wow, this posture is hitting all the best spots for me.
A method both you and your boyfriend can exercise remaining additional existing with each other is usually to Engage in a little match known as halt-and-go. Each and every time you really feel your boyfriend drifting off, Carefully say "end." You each have to immediately end whichever you have been performing and target trying to connect with each other.
Every time we do it, your cock becomes the core of my entire body. The way in which I breath and embrace the globe completely is determined by vibrations of your penis.
As you can see, the first group of dirty talk examples have been all about turning your guy on in the moment to make sure that sexual intercourse is hotter, whilst the 2nd team is centered on building sexual stress using your gentleman to keep him thinking about you and pondering what you have prepared for him.
A few of these recommendations may lead to intercourse. If that's not what you would like, say so! You should not be scared to talk up.
Remember that specified positions tend to be more conducive to intimacy than Other people. It's tough to truly feel extremely connected to your husband or wife once you're bent in excess of the mattress in doggystyle!
Using a substantial repertoire of dirty phrases you news can use on your male is vital if want to help keep matters fascinating in the Bed room (and out of doors the bedroom) — It truly is scientifically verified that soiled talk will work to improve sexual satisfaction.
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You can even do even more intimate functions, like brushing or braiding their hair. This action gives you the perfect time to talk also, or you are able to just enjoy this stress-free activity in silence.
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Friday, November 14, 2008
More Chicago Pics
Ok, I have to narrow down the rest of my chicago pics cause I don't want to do a 3rd blog on the trip lest I bore you all to death! So here's some more...
Pic #1: For some odd reason there are all these HUGE colorful rockets all around this area called "boys town"...hmm, I wonder if they're some sort of symbol. Either way Erin and I thought It was a great place to stop & get a game plan for the rest of the morning. What do you think Erin, pretty comfy huh?
Pic #2: We discovered this quaint little leather shop (giggle,giggle) while out shopping with Erin. We SO almost went in to get something for darren but I decided on an alabaster soap dish instead.
Pic #3: Coots adorable apt. where she was living in (I hope I got this right) the Wicker Park area of Chicago.
Pic #4: Me & Coot bein girly!
Pic #5: Darren & I out for a Sushi dinner with Coot & Eric.
Unfortunately, I didn't get a whole lot of pics from my trip. Ya know, I lug the damn camera around all the time, you'd think I'd bust it out more often! Anyway, I wish I had a pic of Erin's cute apt she was living in at the time. But since she's moved since anyway I guess the point is moot! Keep an eye out for my upcoming blogs, I hope to have them up in the next few weeks; Traverse City trip, family bday party, halloween & maybe even my first thanksgiving dinner, even though I have no pics of it.
Love ya,
1 comment:
- On the move said...
Isn't Chicago a great city!!
- November 16, 2008 at 8:08 AM
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Today, I was shopping for some much needed lady jeans. I am always stealing Joseph's man jeans, and I think his generosity was running out as the holes in his shared jeans were growing.
While at J.C. Penny's, I picked up a few pair to try on with most of my hopes placed on the top pair in the stack. These jeans were advertised as "The Original Flattering Jeans."
This was going to be just the jeans I was looking for. I envisioned them telling me things like..."You look so good," "You are so smart," "You are the best driver ever," and so on. So, I tried them on last, fully prepared for the ensuing flattery.
Instead of flattery, this is what these jeans said to me: "Girl, you better put me back on the rack and go get my big sister. You ain't gonna be busting my seams trying to fit THAT in HERE."
I didn't even try with the big sister. I was afraid she would be as jaded and as honest as the little sis.
Thankfully, I was able to get me a lieing pair of Lee's jeans. If they had anything unpleasant to say, they kept it to themselves.
Whoever invented "relaxed fit," you are a genius.


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�2.10 200g
"Ingredients: Sodium Bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Rhassoul Mud, Perfume, Honey (Mel), Aloe Vera Extract (Aloe barbadensis), Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus dulcis), Bergamot Oil (Citrus bergamia), Gardenia Extract (Gardenia jasminoides)
A little honey of a bath treat. Contains, of course, lots of honey that moisturises and heals the skin; and soothing aloe vera and rhassoul mud to deep cleanse and balance. You will recognise the smell from the ultra-mouth-watering Honey I Washed the Kids soap and Ma Bar Bubble Bar Slice. If you like the warm smell of honey mixed with caramelised sugar then you have to have one of these for your bath."
no bath tonight. pah. will just have to smell.


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Eminent Thinker and Artist Mr JINAN KB was at MIDAS from 1st to 2nd Feb to lecture students and staff at MIDAS on "Rethink" workshop. This booster workshop is the beginning of a series of events lined up by MIDAS for the year 2013.
Visit :http://www.midas.ac.in/
Educational institutes in Marg Swarnabhoomi :http://www.margswarnabhoomi.com/education-overview.php
Source: jafferkhan. blog post


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Having made the decision to change our estate agent, I've been doing a bit of house refurbishment, just to keep my hand in.
This has consisted of adding a few bits and pieces upstairs, a lovely new(ish) rug, some nautical touches in one of the 'children's rooms' and just this morning some new curtains in two of the bedrooms.
I haven't hung new curtains for quite some time and had quite forgotten what a palaver they are. First of all, they required ironing for about two hours. This is because they have a special thermal backing which apparently can only tolerate a very cool iron, which is, of course, useless for removing creases.
Eventually I had to throw caution to the winds and gradually, by teeny tiny increments, increase the heat, fervently hoping that the creases would iron out before it got to the point where the fabric would melt, blister, or go on fire.
Thankfully I avoided disaster (more by luck than judgement) but the result wasn't absolutely perfect. However having spent a full 30 minutes ironing each relatively small curtain I no longer cared and came to the conclusion that corrugated curtains are the way to go..
Then, micro nanoseconds before pulling up the cords on the curtain heading tape I remembered to knot both ends just in time to prevent pulling them all the way out.
That would have been a tad annoying......
Then I had to work out where to put the curtain hooks, which I did by a process of trial and error.
And swearing.
There was a modicum of swearing.
Then I had to hang them, balanced precariously on the end of a chest of drawers, trying to reach a point mere millimetres beyond my outstretched fingers.
Then I had to hold them in place at one end with one hand, while I pulled up the cords to get the right width with my other hand, while simultaneously trying to get the heading tape even with my other hand.....
A bit more swearing happened at that point.
When I finally stepped back to survey the results of my labours, perspiring lightly and panting heavily, the effect was less than edifying.
I expect that over the next 24 hours the remainder of the most entrenched creases will fall out and the curtains will be falling in soft natural folds after they 'settle in'. At that point I will make final adjustments and tie off the cords in their permanent position. Thankfully I don't need to shorten them, which I thought I might have to do.
So now all we need is a deluge of house viewings, courtesy of our mega-enthusiastic new estate agents, when people will be bowled over by the improvements we've made and vie with each other to put in cash offers just a smidgen below the asking price.
Authentic miniature Victorian and Edwardian doll's dolls, toys, games and playthings for the discerning doll's house child. Designed and handcrafted by professional artisan Sandra Morris
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
It's curtains for me........
Posted by Sandra Morris at Wednesday, December 05, 2012
2 comments:
- Irene said...
Ha! Increasing the heat gradually is something I would do and I hope you remembered to plump your cushions!
- 5 December 2012 at 19:23
- Sandra Morris said...
My cushions are plumped to within an inch of their lives.
However I've made a real mess in the workroom AND the dining room so I must get cleared up before the weekend. Hence the impetus to get the shop out of the 'bits' stage!
- 5 December 2012 at 20:07
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