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Stiltz Duo Home Lift
Stiltz Duo Home Lift
More than just a lift, the Stiltz Duo will enhance your life.
The Stiltz Duo Lift is a unique and innovative domestic lift that can be fitted almost anywhere in the home.
The Duo is unlike any other conventional lift available as it does not require hydraulics or need to be fixed to walls. Our lifts are powered by an intelligent electric motor drive system that is very quiet and housed, out of sight, at the top of the lift.
The Stiltz Duo Lift simply plugs straight into any normal 13-amp power socket like any other household appliance. Using Stiltz dual rail technology, the lift is a self-supporting structure so no extra weight burden is put on the home.
This means the lift can be installed in places where other home lifts will not fit. The clever design also means that installation can be completed in a fraction of the time and at a much lower cost.
Assembled in the UK, the Duo offers unrivalled flexibility in terms of placement in the home and is a safe, neat and discreet alternative to a stairlift. It can be installed in as little as one day with minimal building work and disruption. From lounge to bedroom or hallway to study, the lift requires a remarkably small space so the choice is yours.
The Duo Range
Stiltz Duo Classic – this is the original Stiltz Lift and can carry two people up to one floor in less than 30 seconds. The Duo Classic looks great and is a lift to feel good about. It includes many features as standard with additional options available.
Stiltz Duo Vista – is fitted with a clear body made from structural polycarbonate to give it a contemporary look. The Duo Vista can blend into a room's décor and allow natural light to flood in if the home lift is placed in front of or close to a window. It offers all the same features as the Classic.
Stiltz Duo Thru Car – allows users to enter and exit from both sides of the lift. This is made possible by the Stiltz unique dual rail technology. There is no other home lift of this kind on the market that is capable of having a double entry or thru car configuration. It offers all the same features as the Classic.
*Prices include all standard site preparation and installation costs
The Duo Benefits
Small Footprint
One of the smallest footprint of any lift on the market – covers just 0.62m² surface area.
Powered by a quiet electric self-contained motor – no noisy hydraulics.
Fast Installation
Lifts are made up of modular sections – standard installs take just one day.
Power Consumption
Plugs into normal 13 amp power socket – like any other household appliance.
Unique Guide System
Self-supporting structure – two parallel and vertical guides bear load of the lift.
Self Contained Drive System
Housed at the top of the lift, out of sight – no need for external power packs
The Duo Specifications
- Standard Finishes A neutral cream exterior and door with a matching beige interior lining colour.
- Half Height Door The door is interlocked and is made to match the finish of the lift.
- 2 X Remote Controls Call and send the lift remotely and also use it to move heavy or awkward items between floors.
- One Year Warranty All Stiltz Lifts carry a compehensive 12 months parts and labour warranty.
- Internal LED Downlights These are programmed to turn on once the user has entered the lift and remain on for the entire journey.
- Battery Back Up System If there is a power cut while using the lift it will descend to the lower level of the home and wait until the power comes back on.
- Full Height Light Curtain Light Curtain when fitted with half height door.
- Fold Down Seat This is a popular option selected by customers for the short trip between floors.
- Interior Grab Rail Offers increased security for the occupants of the lift.
- Full Height Door An interlocked door that replaces the half-height door and light curtain.
- Bespoke Colours & Finishes Customise your Stiltz lift by choosing different colour lift car, rails and interior lining.
- Uninterruptible Power Supply This system will allow for numerous trips both up and down whilst the main power to the lift is out.
- Interior Telephone In the very unlikely event that the lift stops while you are travelling in it, help is just a phone call away.
- Full Height Light Curtain A full-height motion sensor is situated at the entrance of our lifts (unless a full height door is chosen). If this barrier is crossed the lift will immediately stop.
- Safety Lid Plug This crucial feature plugs the aperture in the floor when the lift is in the downstairs position. It is strong enough to stand on and you can place your original flooring on top to blend in.
- Key Switch Operation This feature allows the owner to isolate the lift if the need arises. This is commonly used when going away on holiday or when the grandchildren are around.
- Top & Bottom Safety Pans Using our obstruction sensing covers, a Stiltz Lift can detect objects above or below the lift, causing it to immediately stop.
- Hold-To-Run Controls Operating a Stiltz Lift requires constant pressure to the controls. This allows the user to 'drive' the lift and feel in total control.
- Weight Limit Sensors Our Duo Lifts are limited to 170Kg, 27 stone/ 375lbs. The lift detects anything exceeding this limit and will not travel.
- Out Of Balance Sensors Sensors will detect if the lift is ever out of balance and prevent the unit from travelling.
- Fall Arrest Mechanism This patented system prevents the car from falling in the unlikely event of the steel ropes going slack.
- Emergency Stop Button This button is front and centre for the user in the event of an emergency.
- Over Speed Detection The lift uses an optical sensor to detect the speed of travel. If this increases beyond a certain speed, the sensor will stop the lift from travelling in that direction.
|Roped drum, braked gear motor drive
|Power Supply
|220 – 240v AC | 5 Amps
|Maximum Load
|170kg | 27st | 375lb (2 persons standing or 1 person sitting)
|Maximum Travel
|3.6 Metres
|Entrance Security
|Full height light curtain / motion sensor – optional full height door
|Maximum Speed
|15cm / Second
|12 months parts and labour warranty
|European Machinery Directive 2006 / 42 / EC & Australian Standard 1735 Part 15
|Rope Diameter
|6mm Galvanized steel rope
|Additional Sensors
|Out-of-balance & overload, overspeed detection and light curtain
|Lighting Type
|2 x 3w LED downlights
|Landing Call Stations
|2 Wireless remote control units – call / send facility (3 x standard aaa batteries in each)
|Typical installation takes two days
|Hold-to-run controls
|Single entry or double entry / thru-car
Call 0800 471 4719
or email us to order your free Stiltz Lifts information pack.
I am absolutely delighted with my home lift and I would recommend Stiltz and their lifts wholeheartedly.Raymond, 69
Duo Gallery
Request a Call Back
Request a Call Back


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Friday before last we loaded up Sparkles and Dazzle and Ted and headed to Bennington Lake. Ted rode Dazzle and Melissa rode Sparkles and I walked and video-ed parts of the expedition. Sparkles was a bit of a pill, but Melissa was trying to push her buttons so she could work through any attitude issues. Dazzle was awesome! The only time she got nervous was when Sparkles was being silly. She happily walked out away from Sparkles and didn't try to look back. Ted doesn't know how to ride and Dazzle took good care of him. They walked through several big scary puddles, up and down steep muddy trails and even got yelled at by pretty girls in the parking, lol. I was very pleased. If that was her "hot" and fresh she is going to be a trail-dead-head this year. Which is GOOD. Trail horses need to be relaxed and enjoying the scenery.
Yesterday, Melissa rode lunged and rode Dazzle and I video-ed. The ground was dry-ish from a horrible wind storm the last couple days and it was beautiful out! She rode her at the trot and got some of the most amazing trot she's ever gotten from Dazzle. And for the whole ride after warming up, not just a few strides. She was pushing form behind, reaching with her hind-end, extending in the front, she was on the bit almost 100% of the time. She would get super scores on a trot like that into or training, I think it could even be a 1st level trot. When we have that at the canter she'll be able to get awesome scores training and be ready to move on to the shortening and lengthening of stride for 1st level. If the weather stays nice that will be soon. Melissa will work her several days a week and they'll be able to make fast progress. It's hard when you have a snag a ride here and there when it's not a windstorm or pouring rain. Yey for spring weather, lol.
The 3 videos are on Youtube.com!
6 years ago

subset: commoncrawl


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I feel like I need to update this a bit more. And now that I can (on accounta I'm unemployed) I'm going to try my darndest. ..yeah, thats a word. Darndest.
So I got this new dashboard widget the other day that allows for easy screen captures.
AH just what I wanted! Just what I needed! And believe you me, I've used it many a times.
You never know how useful an easy screen capture is until you must take a picture of something RIGHT NOW.
In fact I'll show you what I'm a-doin while I write this blog.
(actually now its a lie, because since I wrote that sentence, I purchased some fandango tickets for Twilight)
Isn't that neat?
I think it is. What also is neat is I get to take pictures of David Tennant.
And Catherine Tate too of course.
Oh and also, this picture
And I don't know if you knew, but this is our new President. Whom I totally Love. He's a Hottie!
I dunno what this blog is about. But What I do know is I've had those pictures for a long time and I just didn't do anything with them.
Freak out about it.
Oh here's a picture for the road. (I originally spelled that "rode")


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You could try light ash blonde. ALWAYS do a strand test and an allergy test according to the kit directions before applying any new color to your entire head.
Go back
Gluten free
Sulfite freePPD free
No propylene glycol
No paraben
No ethanolamine
No heavy metals
No animal testing
EcoColors Hair Color
is in compliance
the EU
cosmetic guidelines.


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About Us
Hi! I'm Heather, part intuitive, heart-centered coach who builds thriving relationships, and part savvy, left-brained strategist who builds profitable businesses.
I'm on a mission to show more entrepreneurial couples and families in business together that it is possible (and despite popular belief, quite simple) to have both the best of both worlds—happy, healthy relationships and unstoppable businesses.
If you're an:
- Entrepreneur
- The spouse of an entrepreneur
- An entrepreneurial couple
- Or the member of a family business
Then you're in the right spot.
Here, you'll find relationship and business coaching programs and services that will transform your entire life…guaranteed.
If you're looking for the right person to rescue your relationship and/or business, it's in your best interest to hire someone who…
If you're ready to rediscover the relationship you crave or rebuild the business you desire, click below to learn more about my services:
Professional Biography
Heather Powell holds a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Mrs. Powell has integrated her expertise in interpersonal dynamics and family systems with additional training in personal and executive coaching. Prior to launching Heather A. Powell, LLC/Power Couple Success, Mrs. Powell launched and operated a seven-figure behavioral health organization with her husband that employed 50 team members.


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Marissa Mayer Can Make Me "Say Anything"
Facebook chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg suggested that critics jumped on her friend Marissa Mayer's decision for ordering stay-at-home employees back to the office because she is a woman. The press has been careful not to mention the Yahoo! CEO's fetching good looks, charm, raspy (dare I say sexy) voice and appeal as so not to appear sexist. When Mayer implied that motherhood was easy, she drew the ire of working Moms across the country. The double standard continues, but beauty aside, it's a difficult, fine line to walk for female executives — in high heels or otherwise.
Now, according to a new article, Mayer is being maligned for her tough (and perhaps unrealistically high) hiring practices - causing Yahoo! to lose top talent. This one comes from within the company. According to an unnamed Yahoo employee, Mayer addressed the charges at a meeting, retorting "Why can't we just be good at hiring?" playing off the line "Why can't you be in a good mood?" from what she called one of her favorite movies, 1989's "Say Anything."
I will readily admit that if Marissa Mayer were single and unattached, I would be on the next jet to Silicon Valley to woo her like I was Yahoo's board with Apple's money. This has nothing to do with who Mayer is and what she does for a living, by the way. Forget Samsung's new iPhone killer. For me, Yahoo's CEO is the true Galaxy S4 - Smart, Successful, Strong, and Smokin'.
If circumstances were different, I'd stand outside her office window, hold a boom box over my head, and pop in a cassette of "In Your Eyes" — because I roll 80's style. Strike that. I'd probably mess up her name and call her "Melissa Meyer." Maybe instead I'd hire John Cusack to play me and have Peter Gabriel play live. (Hey, I spare no expense when it's a fantasy). But my "what If" fantasy lost steam this week, as I realized that if Mayer's this hard on employees I doubt I would have cut the mustard in her discerning blue eyes.
Mayer insists on personally reviewing every new recruit with a focus on academic credentials, whereas I graduated from "Not Harvard" University with a degree in "By the Skin of My Teeth." And I'm not sure how a tall, 50-something Italian from a working class family would go over with her Ivy League friends and traditional Midwestern family.
But by all accounts though, Mayer is happily married and I've got as much chance of winning her heart as Microsoft's Surface tablet with Windows 8 does of displacing the iPad as the top tablet. But there I go again, letting my imagination run away with me again. I suppose it's a caveat of my working from home.
Article first published as Marissa Mayer Can Make Me "Say Anything" on Technorati.


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Alec B. Francis (actor)
On this page:
Who is Alec B. Francis?
Alec B. Francis was an English actor, largely of the silent era. He appeared in 241 films between 1911 and 1934. He was born in London and died in Hollywood, California.
- also known as Alec Francis, Alec Frances, Alex Franks, Alex Francis, Alec Budd Francis, Alex B. Francis, Alexander Francis
- born on (147 years ago) in London
- nationality: United Kingdom
- profession: Actor, film director, barrister
- Marriage with Lucy Francis until
- died on (81 years ago) in Hollywood of surgical complications
- filmography:
- played Scrubby in "Outward Bound"
- "Thank You"
- played Mr. Brownlow in "Oliver Twist"
- "The Circle"
- played The Duke in "Camille"
- played Dr. Owen in "Smilin' Through"
- "The Glorious Adventure"
- "The Mississippi Gambler"
- "Mata Hari"
- "Beau Brummel"
- "His Private Secretary"
- played Dr. Redmayne in "The Terror"
- played Truble (Harpenden's Butler) in "Outcast Lady"
- played Dr. Roger Galloway in "Earthbound"
- played Professor Bertrand Dillard in "The Bishop Murder Case"
- played Father in "Saved from the Titanic"
- played Mr. Delahay in "Charley's Aunt"
- "Evangeline"
- played Huntley McMerton in "The Probation Wife"
- played Gen. Dent in "The General's Daughter"
- "The First Violin"
- played The Earl Of Bateson in "The Wishing Ring"
- played Judge Norton in "Half-A-Dollar-Bill"
- played Father Perryam in "High Steppers"
- played John Merkle in "The Auction Block"
- played Father Hillaire in "North of the Rio Grande"
- played Sir John Carleton in "Flame of the Desert"
Online dictionaries and encyclopedias with entries for Alec B. Francis (actor)
Click on a label to prioritize search results according to that topic:
Anagrams of ALEC B. FRANCIS
What do you get if you rearrange the letters?
See also the blanagrams of Alec B. Francis!
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Go to the wordplay of Alec B. Francis for some fun with words!


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...more >>
Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Duck, Salmon, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Dried Peas, Carrots, Potatoes, Canola Oil, Dried Egg, Menhaden Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Oat Fiber, Pea Fiber, Tomato Pomace, Vitamins (Choline Chloride, Ascorbic Acid (Source of Vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid), Guar Gum, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Natural Hickory Smoke Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Salt, DL-Methionine, Carrageenan, L-Tryptophan, Colostrum, Cranberries, Blueberries, Spinach, Dried Kelp, L-Lysine, Yucca Schidigera Extract.
Feeding and Mixing Guide for Puppies Puppies up to 11 weeks of age, feed as much as your puppy will eat in 3 to 4 feedings per day. Weeks 11 to 26, feed about 1 1/2 cans per 5 lbs. of body weight per day. Weeks 26 to 52, feed about 1 can per 5 lbs. of body weight per day. For combination feeding, reduce dry food by 1/2 cup* for every 6 oz. of wet food offered. For reproduction, feed to ideal body condition, which may be up to 50% more than normal adult amounts. The amounts in the table are intended as guidelines only. The food intake should be adjusted according to the age, weight and activity of your dog. It is important for your dog's health to maintain a proper body weight. Consult a veterinarian for specific weight recommendations. • Serve at room temperature. • Fresh water should be available at all times. • Any unused portion should be covered and refrigerated.
Always refer to the actual package for the most accurate information


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Convicted doctor may screen drug addicts
national August 06, 2014 01:00
By The Nation
The Probation Department is considering assigning Dr Wisut Boonyakasemsanti to screen and rehabilitate drug addicts as a social-service activity under the rules of his probation.
The former gynaecologist, jailed for killing his wife almost a decade ago, was released on Monday for good behaviour.
Department chief Kannikar Saengthong said Wisut would report himself to the Ratchadaphisek Court's probation officials within three days to lay out a probation plan for the next three years, before he could resume a normal life from September 24, 2017. Since Wisut was a doctor and had been treating inmates during his time behind bars, the department believed he could help screen drug addicts on probation for rehabilitation, she said.
Between October 2013 and this June, 18,292 convicts were released from prison on probation, while 17,757 had their prison terms reduced.


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Hi all,
Today I'm sharing with you my Design Team card
I've made for July's challenge
As always it's an Anything Goes theme
and there's bonus prizes if you use a
Scrapper's Delights image.
So on to my card
I used the image Bee.
This image also comes with a rainbow but I wanted to use it
as it was using the flower to float down like an umbrella.
Copic Colours used:
Bee - Y06 Y18
Skin - E00 E04 E11 R20
Flower petals - R81 R83 R85
Stem - YG23
I hope to see you enter the challenge


text: In Brazil most women have their nails done every week. It is R$15 for nails and toes. It is quite a treat when time permits me to go. Saturday the three of us girls went. Aunt Debbie gave Jessica a birthday present of money and this what she chose. It was fun designed nails in the style. Thank you Aunt Debbie


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When women's weightlifting was contested as an Olympic Sport for the first time in 2000, the notion of the "athletic body" of a female athlete was turned on its proverbial head. Tara Nott (now Tara Cunningham) won the only gold medal in weightlifting for the USA. To say that her body did not conform to perceptions of a "typical" weightlifter is an understatement: this 5'1" former gymnast and soccer player could have been the new face of women's weightlifting; the tiny media darling (you know NBC loves those!) of an emerging sport. Nott and her victory received due attention, much of which was due to her deviation from the normative perceptions of a weightlifter's body. However, another "body" received even more attention: the body of Cheryl Haworth. At 5'9" and 300 lbs., Haworth represented the US in the 2000, 2004, and 2008 Olympic Games as a weightlifter in the super heavyweight category. She earned a bronze in 2000 and placed in the top 6 in 2004 and 2008. Haworth's large body and great athletic ability illustrate a notion that is generally not embraced and certainly not understood by American society: the fat female athlete.
The media was quick to adopt Cheryl Haworth as a novelty act of sorts. In detailing and glorifying her body, they reinforced the hegemonic views that the fat female athlete, especially the fat female elite athlete, is an oddity. While many believe the attention lavished on Haworth has promoted pride for "big girls," I believe it has in a way fetishized the fat female athletic body. How can one body, in society's eyes, be so "wrong" (read: obese) yet so "right" (read: Olympic athlete)? To locate this, I turn to two articles that appeared in popular media outlets at both the onset and the apparent conclusion of Haworth's Olympic weightlifting career.
Jack McCallum wrote an article profiling Haworth published in Sports Illustrated's September 11, 2000 issue titled "As Big As She Wants To Be." One can assume the title is a play on Dennis Rodman's 1997 biography Bad As I Wanna Be, as both Haworth and Rodman exhibit bodies that can be viewed as transgressive and deviant. McCallum's writing reflects the novelty that Cheryl Haworth was in the athletic world in 2000. He attempts to address the issue of her size: "It's not easy being a young woman of substantial girth in a society that worships pretzel models" (p. 162). Being a young woman of "substantial girth" in an athletic society is equally as challenging, if not more so.
It seems somewhat offensive for McCallum to write that "There are no doubt times when Haworth wishes she had a different body" (p. 162). Most athletes would wish this due to the wear and tear caused by elite level training regimen, but the assumption made in this case is that a thinner body would promise an "easier" life for Cheryl Haworth. McCallum marvels that Haworth "seems to be a well-adjusted young woman" (p. 162).
Haworth's status as an elite athlete is seemingly justified only after McCallum details additional accomplishments beyond the realm of weightlifting: clearly, holding national records in that sport isn't sufficient. Haworth has a 33-inch vertical leap. She can do splits. She can run the 40-meter-dash in under 6 seconds, keeping up with athletes half her size. The final objectification of Haworth is when her own mother tells the reporter to "'Go ahead, touch her thighs.' The touch is made; the thighs are indeed tabletop hard" (p. 162). This highlights the idea that the fat female athlete couldn't possibly be housed in a hard body. To prod Haworth as if she were a steer at a state fair is not only insulting, it also reinforces the fat female athlete as novelty; a "bearded lady" in the circus of modern athletics.
Eight years later, what has changed? In 2008, the New York Times published "Extra Powerful Role Model Will Return to Weight Lifting's Biggest Stage" written by Mike Tierney. Tierney writes that in 2000, Haworth became an "overnight sensation bearing the burden of XX-sized role model" (p. 2). Haworth is positioned as "no longer a news media novelty," which may show some progress on the acceptance of the fat female athlete (p. 2). However, she is clearly still a novelty, and Tierney labels Haworth as "a catalyst for societal change" (p. 2). Haworth's weight is still given deviant status: "She has carried her size well — visual evidence for girls that a slim shape is not essential to achieve goals" (p. 2). This discourse solidifies her weight as a hindrance, an obstacle, in leading the life of a female.
There are some positive outcomes of Cheryl Haworth's media exposure. In reports that do not even see the pages of the sport section, Haworth is noted as the "rare" fat person who is actually fit. Even though the novelty had worn off in Olympic reporting, the idea of a female who was both fat and fit was (and still is) new to the general American public. The New York Times published a 2000 article in which Haworth's body serves the purpose of opening the public's eye the fact that fat and fit are not two opposite ends of a binary. The public health implications of this idea are huge: being "overweight" does not preclude any person from becoming (or already being!) fit. As the article states, "while everyone can't become lean, becoming fit is possible for anyone willing to make the effort" (Brody, 2000, p. 7). However, eight years later, it is clear that the fat vs. fit binary still flourishes in society (for a number of reasons unrelated to actual health) and has continued excluding those who are fat from being considered fit. Those subscribing to and enforcing this binary should realize that they are feeding into, not "curing," negative health consequences amongst the fat population. Their "war on obesity" is in actuality a moral war against individuals.
There are many lenses through which Cheryl Haworth's body can be viewed. Her body is transgressive and disciplined, fat and athletic, overweight and fit, all in the same corporeal entity. Haworth's oft-quoted mantra to young girls is "It's fun to be strong." The increased approval (slow as it has been) of the muscular female form provides hope that notions of "acceptable" female athletic forms are not static. Unfortunately, at this point, regardless of how strong a female may be, it is still not "fun" to be fat. Hopefully, the fun of "being strong" will no longer be limited to girls and women who possess "athletic bodies" of a certain size or weight.
Works Cited
Brody, J. E. (2000, October 24). Personal Health; fat but fit: A myth about obesity is slowly being debunked. The New York Times, pp 7.
McCallum, J. (2000, September 11). As big as she wants to be. Sports Illustrated, 93(10), 162.
Tierney, M. (2008, May 31). Mighty role model will return to big stage. The New York Times, pp. 2.


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Alludra the Mage here helping you catch the pets you need to win the battles.
I am just crazy for wild mechanical pets! The idea that a group of renegade robots broke free to live in the wild along with their animal kin makes me smile, and of course want to run out and grab all of them that I can find. The Fluxfire Feline is no exception to this crazy rule.
Found in the peaks of Dun Morogh, or more accurately hopefully found in those peaks. I found tons of them underground in the area of the gnomish starting zone. Don't be discouraged if you can't find them there though, they are also found in the gnomish buildings all over the zone.
Also while you are there give a look out for the Irradiated Roach. This little bugger can also be difficult to find, which is odd for a radioactive cockroach. :/
Since these pets are found near the starting zones they are level 1. So get your turnip out or a comparable level pet before catching them.
Because those level 25's can one shot them way too easily!
Because those level 25's can one shot them way too easily!


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Young Chase gets Bravery Award/
City of Greater Geraldton Animal Control Team Leader, Darren Cole, and City Ranger, Archie Brown, nominated three-year-old local boy Chase, for a Bravery Award through the WA Ranger Association after the youngster suffered the trauma of a dog attack.
Chase and his mum, Kelly, were visiting a Geraldton property when the dog bit him on the face.
The injuries he received resulted in an emergency flight to Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth for emergency treatment and surgery.
Chase will require ongoing treatment for a number of years as a result of injuries received in the attack.
Mr Cole said from time to time the WA Rangers Association present a Bravery Award to children who have experienced the trauma of a dog attack.
"The purpose of this program is to help kids who have been attacked and injured by a dog," he said.
"These awards help victims get through the trauma of the attack and aim to assist in promoting a quick and full recovery."
Chase was pretty chuffed with his award, presented to him at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday (April 22), by Deputy Mayor, Cr Neil McIlwaine, and proudly showed off his medallion to the public gallery.
Chase's grandfather, Mal, praised the City's Rangers for their ongoing support throughout Chase's ordeal.
"I'd really like to thank all the rangers who helped Chase," he said, "they have been really wonderful."


text:
Friday, December 19, 2008
Burnin' Desire
Each time I envision your beauty in my mind,
Arousing my emotions deep down inside,
The erotic, sensual way you move,
Carries itself in all you do.
So proud am I that we're together,
All I've dreamt of forever and ever,
Longing for your touch and incredible kiss,
Whenever we're together, I'm in heavenly bliss,
You arouse in me such burnin' desire,
Set my heart on body totally on fire,
Hunger to be with you all day and night,
I want you and need you more each day.
Written by Bert Calderon
Posted by Bert Calderon at 6:02 PM
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text:
Earlier this year I was fortunate to visit, first, Zimbabwe in March and, then, Taiwan, in May, in both cases going with United Reformed Church colleagues. Those two situations were very different, but one thing that they shared in common and that spoke to me was a concern to discern what God is telling them, as a church, to do.
We saw some amazing projects in Zimbabwe where there is great poverty and a huge challenge from HIV/Aids. For example, we visited Highfield Uniting Presbyterian Church on a Monday morning. We met with a group of lively women who form the nucleus of the HIV/Aids project that is linked to the church. They told us how they make peanut butter and floor polish in order to sell these goods so that the small profit can sustain the work they do in support of each other and others.
The creche that also uses the church premises was in the church along with a number of other local creches as some local dignitaries were visiting for a presentation event. This meant that we were able to go and look round the room where they usually play which was set up for their return. In many ways it was not unlike a UK nursery with a hospital corner, shop corner, nature corner cafe corner and so on – except that the things with which they could play were all home-made, though creatively so. But thank goodness health and safety hasn't kicked in – as most of the things they play with would be condemned in this country.
In Taiwan we spent quite a bit of time visiting some of the indigeneous groups and seeing how the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan is working in those areas. One particularly impressive project was at Bunun where the minister, himself from the local indigeneous group, got so concerned about the migration from the area and the lack of opportunities for work that he has created a major cultural project, with local crafts made and sold, a restaurant and cafe, accommodation, a regular cultural show and a whole complex that showcases the Bunun culture and keeps it alive. And all this is done from a Chritian base and as part of the mission of the church.
Sometimes we get concerned about what we can do as a church. I understand why that happens, but I'm not sure that we should. What we need to do is to listen for what God is calling us to do – and we can be confident that God won't call us to something that is beyond our capability.


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text:
2018-06-24 发布 2018-07-24 截止
- 职位描述
- 公司介绍
[ 展开 ]
Hotel Introduction
Hotel Introduction
ShuangDa International hotel was officially opened on January 21, 2017.It is a boutique business sea view hotel which invested by Hainan ShuangDa Group who mainly engages in the investment, operation and management of many high grade star hotels. The hotel is located in the center of Sanya city, leaning close to the Chinese Egret National Nature Reserve and the Sanya River where there are lots of mangrove trees. When you choose the ShuangDa International Hotel, it means that you are in Sanya's Central Business District, surrounded by numerous shops, a variety of food and services. For example: Sanya River, Walking Street, Municipal Government, Administrative Services Centre, Land Bureau, Planning Bureau, shopping center like JinRunYangGuang and BaiJiaHui supermarket, and entertainment places such as FanErSai KTV, food street and bars etc.
The hotel building is overall with glass surfaces,situated on Hexi Road, across from the beautiful Sanya River. The fashionable style of the building echoes theenchanting landscape. It is very relaxing to enjoy the river view while watching yellow Chinese Egrets playing freely in the Mangrove trees. You can catch a good sight of LuHuiTou Mountain from a long distance while listening to a touching love story of the ancestors of Li Minority. You can also look up to the NanShan Temple's GuanYin over the sea who blesses and saves us. Standing by the windows you can totally enjoy the magnificent visual landscape with city view, river view, mountain view and sea view.
It is only 30 minutes from hotel to Phoenix Airport, 15 minutes to Sanya railway station, and only 5 minutes from to Sanya bus station, which is very convenient and easy to access to every local sightseeing.
The hotel has 228 guestrooms, ranging size from 80 to 128 square meters with noble style of interior decoration and well-selected famous brand bed covers, unique spring-mattress can provide you the most comfortable sleeping environment. You can completely enjoy the charming landscape through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows at a 180-degree flat angle, embracing the sea view, river view and city view. You can also enjoy the gorgeous city neon and feel the attractions and romantics of Sanya.
LiangTang Chinese Restaurant operates healthy Cantonese Cuisine by its unsophisticated and innovative food with flourishing, thriving and mild flavour, which earns it a good reputation worldwide. Meanwhile it offers HaiNan food so you can taste unique southern delicacies as well. GuangZhou Morning Tea provides traditional flavor of southern part of China. Hotel lobby bar provides freshly ground coffee with aroma flavor, and a variety of books. There is Gym, kids clubs, outdoor pool, Chess and Mahjong room, and multi-recreation room for guests do body exercises and experience all kinds of modern entertainments. The multi-function hall and conference room can meet the catering needs of wedding service and success of the company event with high-tech media technology. It provides perfect conference and banquet experience by the use of large LED lighting with fashionable and elegant environment.
We will exceed the expectation of all our guests by providing them luxurious service and a truly memorable experience. No matter which place you are in the hotel, you will get warm and professional service. We offer customers a comfortable, exquisite and fashionable business and travel space with unique design style, considerate and swift service.
Enjoy Sanya river view, listen to sea waves, and be acquainted with each other in ShuangDa International Hotel!
- 所属行业:酒店业
- 企业性质:私营.民营企业
- 人数规模:100-499人
- 联 系 人:闫女士
- 联系电话:
- 手机号码:
- 企业地址:三亚河西路91号
- 前台接待(若干名)(Guest Services Agent 薪资:面议 海南三亚文华东方酒店
- 总机房接线员 薪资:面议 金茂三亚亚龙湾丽思卡尔顿酒店The Ritz-Carlton Sanya,Yalong Bay
- 前台接待 薪资:2千-3千 三亚明申高尔夫度假酒店
- 前台接待员 薪资:2千-3千 三亚天通建国酒店
- 前台接待 薪资:面议 三亚鹿回头国宾馆
- 热门职位
- 热门地区


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Marks & Spencer Group PLC Thursday said it had hired Chris Taylor from rival Wm. Morrison Supermarkets PLC (MRWSY) for a senior role, nearly a year after Marc Bolland left Morrisons to join M&S as chief executive.
Taylor, who was leading Morrison's push into the convenience store segment, will join Marks & Spencer May 3 as director of simply food, franchise and hospitality, replacing Neil Hyslop who is moving to a newly created role as director of space planning and development.
The move is a blow to Morrison, the smallest of the big four U.K. supermarkets that lags its rivals in the online, non-food and convenience sectors, three of the growth areas targeted by Chief Executive Dalton Philips.
Last month, updating its strategic plan outlined in November, Morrison said it had made its first foray into the online food market with the acquisition of a 10% stake in U.S Internet grocery group FreshDirect and fleshed out plans to trial a convenience store format as it tries to gain ground in the highly competitive U.K. grocery market.
"We're delighted to confirm that Christopher Taylor is joining Marks & Spencer as director of simply food, franchise and hospitality. Christopher joins us on May 3 and we're looking forward to welcoming him to the team," said Marks & Spencer.
Marks & Spencer earlier this week defied a recent spate of downbeat retail news to report fourth-quarter sales ahead of expectations, news that sent shares in the U.K. bellwether up 6% Wednesday.
The company said it maintained broadly flat U.K. same-store sales in the 13 weeks ended April 2, trumping not only market expectations for a decline of 2.5% but also the performance of its peers. M&S reported same-store sales in its core U.K. market rose 0.1% in the month from a year earlier, with strength in food offsetting weak sales of general merchandise.
CEO Bolland said that consumer confidence, while low, had remained stable in the past two months. However, he emphasized that the company expects the coming year to be extremely challenging.
A Morrison spokesman couldn't comment immediately on Taylor's departure.
Source : Wall Street Journal


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I believe in perseverance.
The starting horn blew and the race began. My dad and I were running in the Camp Pendleton Mud Run– a challenging 6.2 mile race with obstacles including mud pits, walls, deep lakes, steep hills, and a rugged terrain. Moreover, my father and I were competing in the more difficult category of combat boots and military fatigues. "This race is life in a nutshell," my dad told me. "The boots represent the constant burdens we carry throughout life; the obstacles symbolize struggles we face. Overall, retain a positive attitude and persevere." Often throughout the race, I felt like walking or just quitting altogether. But with my dad's words still fresh in my mind, I persevered and won first place in my age division. I understood if I applied this race to my life, I could persevere through anything.
I recalled those words when I faced a real obstacle in my life. In the middle of my cross-country season, I developed a pain in my right hip. After useless icing and stretching, my coach advised me to see the doctor. So I visited the doctor, chiropractor, and physical therapist, but my hip pain remained. My coach explained my options: either quit the season, or continue by practicing in swimming pools and only participating in races. I chose to persevere knowing I could and probably would only increase the severity of my injury. One night while observing me swim, my dad explained how proud he was of me. His words expressed the sincerity of his emotion. How clearly he conveyed his feelings of pride to me. He immediately filled me with a renewed desire to persevere and determination to succeed.
However, my racing performance rapidly declined because obviously swimming
cannot compensate for the more strenuous running workouts. During each race I observed one teammate finish before me that usually finished behind me. Finally at the last race, the California State Championships in Fresno, I finished last behind the other six varsity boys on the team. Yet on the brink of tears, my dad greeted me at the finishing line and proudly congratulated me. I had encountered obstacles that threatened my athletic future, and I had beaten them. I laid aside my personal discomforts and persevered for the team. Because of this trial, I developed a tough perseverance that I truly believe in and apply throughout my daily life.
If you enjoyed this essay, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to This I Believe, Inc.


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Summer is just around the corner and with it comes the beginning of the summer camp season.
Of course, it isn't just summer camp. There are a variety of programs in which children and teens can participate, from reading programs to swim lessons and even reduced prices for public transportation.
Camp is far and away the most popular. Registration has already started for the 2017 summer camps at Lee County Parks & Recreation, which runs from June 5 to July 28.
These camps draw thousands of youngsters throughout Lee County to programs, outings and activities at traditional, teen and specialty camps.
Each year, the spots at the major locations, Wa-Ke Hatchee, Lakes Regional Park and Estero Recreation Center, fill up well before school is out. North Fort Myers is fast becoming one of those major locations as the new rec center has created a new buzz.
Last year, all 90 spots for all six weeks of traditional camp sold out. This year, North Fort Myers will have 120 slots. And according to Lisa Weaver, who runs the rec center, most of those slots have been filled.
"Last year we had a waiting list and had to turn people away. We have spaces available, but they are limited," Weaver said. "Last year's teen camp was capped at 40 and we usually had 35 or so. That will also fill up as we get closer."
Weaver said parents tend to wait until the last minute to sign up, though she added that is not recommended.
If you plan to register for camp at one of the four major recreation centers, you need to obtain a facility membership first, which is a one-time $10 lifetime fee for individuals and $25 for families.
Camp is $75 per week, which includes lunch, a snack and field trips. They do at least three big trips, as well as several smaller trips to the pool, library and other places.
There is usually a theme each week, and all the trips and guest speakers, are part of that theme, Weaver said.
Parents interested in swimming lessons also can register now. Those lessons and other summer aquatics programs are available at the county's four year-round community pools located in Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Pine Island and San Carlos Park.
The classes are divided up by groups according to age and ability every morning from 8 to 10 a.m., with special classes on Saturday and Sunday as well as Tuesday and Thursday evening in the month of June.
There is also a very popular Junior Guard program with one-week sessions from June 26 to 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 10 to 12, and for ages 13 to 15 from July 10 to 14, at the same times.
To register visit your nearest community pool or online at www.LeeParks.org.
Just because school is out doesn't mean you have to stop reading. Beginning May 22, children and teens may sign up for the summer reading program at Lee County Public Libraries and select a free book, while supplies last.
Planned activities at the libraries include story time, magic and juggling and puppet shows, as well as crafts and games. Age-appropriate programs also are available for infants to adults.
The programs help children and teens stay mentally active while having fun. The summer reading program is designed to help foster literacy skills and develop a love of reading.
The North Fort Myers Library is expected to have a full slate of programs even with the new library expected to begin construction later in the year.
Event schedules are available in the libraries, or at www.leelibrary.net/calendar. All events are free, but tickets or advanced registration is required.
For more information, visit a library, go to www.leelibrary.net/summer-reading-program or call 479-INFO.
To enjoy all these programs, you need a way to get there, and not everyone has a car and not everyone wants to ride their bike in the heat and rain.
This summer, and all year round, students are eligible to ride LeeTran for half price with a LeeTran student ID.
Bring your school ID to Rosa Parks Transportation Center, 2250 Widman Way, Fort Myers, and for just $1 receive your LeeTran Student ID card. This card allows you to ride all Fixed Route buses for just 75 cents and the Beach Trolley for 35 cents.
Later this summer, join LeeTran for Summer Bus Bash and scavenger hunt fun. Students will be eligible to win prizes for visiting select locations throughout Lee County that are accessible by bus.
In June, visit www.RideLeeTran.com for more information or call LEE-TRAN.


text:
This week's readings pushed a variety of buttons in my head. While some of the comments and passages about women's treatment at the time disturbed me, my attention focused on the adaptation and modernization of society to these new technologies (telegraph and telephone). It feels like the Internet is running parallel to the attitudes that Americans faced during the early periods of the telegraph and telephone. While there are individuals praising the new technology, there are the ones claiming it could bring the downfall of society. How similar do you think modern society treats the Internet, or has society already reached the point where the Internet has become domesticated?
While Czitrom and Carey primarily talk about the technology, culture and influence of the telegraph, Fischer and Martin's focus on the telephone and gender grabbed my attention more firmly. Fischer went so far as to suggest both the automobile and telephone were "technologies of sociability" and were shaped this way by women of the time. Might any of these ideas apply to current media like the Internet or computers? Does much of a gender divide exist today that could shape such technologies anyways?
Also, Martin talks about how companies attempted to advertise specific uses of the telephone, but society didn't really care and created its own uses for the technology (e.g. telephone advertisements and women). What might McLuhan say about this situation? What if women did not change the telephone for what they wanted it to be? Would the telephone still have developed into a social technology? Would computers and the Internet gone down a similar path if people only used them for what companies deemed acceptable and natural?
Finally, Carey ended his piece with a really interesting note on the "frontiers" of commercial activity. Carey mentions how it took awhile to finally tackle the sabbath after space and time, but they accomplished their goal. After that victory, they focused their attention to "night as a frontier." It almost seems as if modern society is still pursuing night as a commercial frontier that continues to change. Doesn't it seem as if our modern culture is still figuring out how properly commercialize the night frontier?


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Friday, 29 October 2010
Volkswagen Van Gets Olympic Champion On The Road To 2012
Bryony is Britain's number one female windsurfer and second in the RS:X world rankings. She has recently won silver in the 2010 World Cup Series and a proven medal winner over the last four years at the Weymouth World Cup event, which as the 2012 Olympic venue means she will be sailing on her home waters!
'This is the perfect vehicle for my lifestyle and an extremely valuable tool in my bid for gold in 2012. The Transporter is great to drive, really comfortable over the long distances I have to travel, and has plenty of space to carry all my equipment – plus it looks cool,' said Bryony.
The Volkswagen Transporter has evolved during its 60 years of production to become the most popular and iconic vans used by surfers and windsurfers, and in the tradition of surfer vans, Bryony's has been customised with a roof spoiler, alloy wheels, tinted glass and bespoke, colourful graphics featuring her sport.
Her van is also fitted with a towbar, as she often needs to tow equipment, including a rib, and as it is a Kombi, it also has the added versatility of a second row of seats which fold forward to create a longer load length when needed.
David George, Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said: 'We are delighted to be able to support Bryony as she strives to achieve her target of gold in 2012. Bryony is a great ambassador because she's so passionate about our brand, and just like many of our customers, uses the van to carry the tools of her trade.'
Video: Two Wheeled Van Driving
Friday, 22 October 2010
The Evolution of Van Man
by Elena Price
To mark the launch of the new version of the iconic Transporter van earlier this year, and celebrate how it has evolved during five generations and 60 years of production, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has commissioned research to take an in depth look at how the modern van driver's interests and habits have evolved during this time.
The research sheds light on the stereotype of the modern van driver, sometimes known as 'white van man', and shows that today's van drivers are now fitter, better read, healthier and more tech savvy than ever before. The study also found that an increasing number (over a third) are women.
Key to the research was how van drivers are perceived and how they perceive themselves. Over 53 per cent of the public feel that van drivers suffer from outdated and outmoded stereotypes of the 80s and 90s 'white van driver'.
Over 65 per cent of the van drivers questioned take some form of frequent exercise, with over a third exercising more than three times a week. Keeping fit and healthy is also not a premise of just young van drivers with a large proportion (70 per cent) of van drivers over 55 exercising regularly. Staying healthy doesn't just mean exercise either, as diet is important for the modern van driver with over 40 per cent passing on a pasty or packet of crisps in favour of an apple or a salad whilst on the road.
Whilst keeping fit is important to the modern van driver, a healthy and active mind is now also important. Over a third (37 per cent) regularly support the arts, enjoying great films, plays, and exhibitions - maybe even an opera or two.
Today's van drivers are also keen to stay abreast of current affairs with over 80 per cent of respondents following the news agenda, with Scottish drivers being the biggest newshounds at 91 per cent. Whilst the modern driver is a great fan of traditional media, social online sites now play an increasingly important role in their lives – with over 60 per cent using a social network and nearly 20 per cent regularly tweeting .
Technology plays an integral part in both a van driver's home and professional life with 72 per cent owning a laptop so they can now take their office on the road with them, while 57 per cent own a Smartphone or iPhone, and over half have already embraced HD TV.
David George, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles commented:
'Our research looked to challenge some of the more outdated perceptions of modern van drivers and it certainly has. Van drivers, much like the iconic Volkswagen vans over the last 60 years, have most certainly kept up with the times.'
The research also looked at how 'van proud' modern drivers were with over a third taking pride in their vehicles and regularly cleaning them. Indeed younger drivers are the proudest with 62 per cent regularly taking to the chamois and polish to keep the dirt away, whilst across the country those in the East Midlands are the most proud of their van's appearance.
Looking at van drivers across the country:
The fittest van drivers by region:
1. South West
2. North West
3. Scotland, Northern Ireland and Greater London
4. West Midlands
5. East of England
The biggest news fans
1. Scotland
2. North East
3. South East
4. West Midlands and South West
5. Yorkshireand North West
The most 'van proud' drivers
1. East Midlands
2. West Midlands
3. Greater London
4. South East and Scotland
5. North East
Friday, 15 October 2010
Automotive Markets Show Improvement in September
Brian Johnson, an analyst at BarclayCapital said on Monday that an upturn in those sales at retailers would be coupled with lower sales to those who buy in bulk, such as car hire and van rental companies. However this would be a positive nod to automotive manufactures as individual sales yield a much higher profit margin then fleet sales to larger firms or companies that deal in car and van rental, leasing, or other fields.
"We continue to expect sales to remain around current levels for the remainder of 2010," he wrote, adding that he is sticking with his forecast of 12 million in sales for next year.
September sales numbers were predicted to be in the area of 11.7 million cars, vans, and trucks, a small but still increased margin from 11.5 million in the August period.
Brian Johnson went on to say "This would make September the best retail month in two years except for August of 2009, which was artificially boosted by the government's Cash for Clunkers rebates. The numbers will be far higher than last September, which was a depressed month because Cash for Clunkers drew out buyers who would have otherwise waited until September."
Across the nation this week is when the automakers report their figures for the month and on a year to year ratio. These results show that although sales are down the average price of of vehicles per is on the rise which means a higher profit. It seems although less people are buying those who are value paying the price for a quality reliable car van or truck.
The general consensus over low sales volumes is that consumers are still shaken in the economy, and employment, debt, and financial security are still issues. They believe that there are a large number of people that are stepping back and waiting for prices to fall before buying.However, automotive manufactures are now reducing their overheads and still profiting even with a lower sales volume. Those waiting for lower prices might be waiting a long time.
Van News Roundup
30 Van's I'd Be Tempted to Get Into
30 Vans with crazy paint jobs including the Scooby Doo themed one below.
Mobil 1 Announces Britain's Best and Worst Roads.
""The Mobil 1 Mission was a grueling test, travelling a long distance across a variety of terrain. But there were some real adrenaline-fuelled highlights. I experienced some phenomenal drives through scenery I didn't even realise we had in this country.""
Tyre safety campaign receives Highways Agency backing
"Organised by TyreSafe, tyre safety month will educate drivers about the importance and simplicity of checking tyre tread depth. With the Highways Agency's endorsement, campaign materials will be distributed across the UK"
Thursday, 7 October 2010
Video: World's Most Amazing Limos.
Also Includes: Ferrari F40, F360 Lamborghini Diablo, Countach,
VW Passat, Beetle, Porcshe Cayenne,
BMW 760Li, Hummer H2, The worlds longest Limo at 100 FEET!
Friday, 1 October 2010
Who Let The White Van Man Out?
A recent survey has shown that people are least likely to let out from junctions those driving a white van. Why is it that people in commercial vehicles are our least favorite road users? Is a man driving a used van less deserving of the 'after you' hand wave? Perhaps it is because we assume that these people are being paid to drive rather than spending their leisure time trying to get somewhere?
Those driving Lorries, BMWs, Land Rovers and sports cars were also near the bottom of the list. Those most likely to get let out were Peugeot 207 and Vauxhall Astra drivers and good looking drivers in any vehicle. I wonder if good looking women in white vans get let out at junctions?
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Saturday, 25 September 2010
Driving a 100 Tonne Logging Truck
Thursday, 23 September 2010
Strong sales for Volkswagen across the board, and more for the future says CEO
Its not hard to see why Winterkorn is so optimistic about VWC's future. A record of the first half of this year shows that Volkswagen sold well over 4 million vehicles across the periods of January to July. It only adds to the steam of good news previously attributed to its European divisions. Already the largest European automaker, their performance output rose again by 13 percent for the first half of the year. While in the month of July alone, Volkswagen had sold over 570,000 cars and vans worldwide.
"After a very successful first six months we got off to a good start in the second half of the year. Over the coming months we will continue on our growth path with our model range and will perform better than the competition. However, this will be a challenge, given an operating environment that is again becoming difficult. Now that incentive programs have come to an end, the global automotive market is expected to decline in the second half of the year. There will not be a return to the high pre-crisis levels this year," - Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler
Sales figures for VWC were most significant in the Asia & Pacific regions, with a reported growth rate of 42 percent percent totalling 1.23 million vehicles. China, did well with its own substantial growth of 42 percent. However, pales in comparison to India, with an increase of 121%. The home European markets were no slouch either, with figures totalling 2 million vehicles sold, maintaining its already strong holding with a rise of 2.2 percent. In the Western Europe regions there were gains of 18.4 percent to 1.15 million vehicles. However the home German market remain very low key due to the diminishing returns of the cash for clunkers schemes that took place last year.
The models which preformed the best for VWC were the various people carrying cars/vans as well as Volkswagen's more commercial oriented vehicles. The core brands went on to sell 2.6 million passenger cars and vans during the first half of the year (January to July), at an increase of 14 percent. Demand in China for the already popular models such as the Lavida, Passat Lingyu, Jetta and New Bora only increased as well.
Tuesday, 21 September 2010
Video: The Biggest Truck in the World
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
Volkswagen Provides British Gas with a New Fleet
"Our on-going strategic relationship with Volkswagen is very important to our business. It enables us to provide our engineers with safe and reliable vehicles, which meet highest quality standards and offer excellent value in terms of whole life costs."
-Colin Marriott, General Manager for British Gas fleet
The vehicles Volkswagen are supplying are not the normal vans for sale. For improved safety the vans are fitted with speed limiters and racking to help control any load if the vehicle has to brake heavily. In addition, the new livery includes high visibility chevrons on the rear doors. Externally, the vans still feature the iconic British Gas flame, but the new livery is also designed to have more space to communicate information and features to keep customers, and potential customers, informed.
The replacement of their existing fleet is part of British Gas' modernization plans. The new vans feature the pale blue that British Gas now use in their branding, replacing the dark blue many associate with the brand.
"We are pleased to see that the quality, durability and cost effective running costs of Volkswagen vans have passed the formidable British Gas acceptance criteria, and above all, proud to have our vans delivering such great service to British Gas and its customers."
-Simon Elliott, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
Thursday, 2 September 2010
Video: Yeti Concept Truck
Master fabricator Rex Bailey used the Samson™ CNC machine to build the "Yeti" (the abominable snowman), a monster truck that drives through snow more than 3 feet deep. The 76-inch tractor tires, Unimog portal axles, and modified Dodge 3500 Cummins diesel truck are all joined together by custom-designed plates that Rex made with the machine.
Thursday, 26 August 2010
Volkswagen Unveils New Race Touareg 3
The Race Touareg 2 has now been replaced by the Race Touareg 3 (who thought that one up?). The new version has had a number of improvements which VW believe will stand them in good stead to win in 2011.
Beneath the bodywork the twin-turbocharged 2.5-litre TDI engine has been optimised to allow greater economy while still producing 300 PS and 442 lbs ft of torque. It has also been revised to cope with the severe altitude changes incurred on the Dakar with the vehicle climbing to heights of over 15,000 feet above sea level. The Race Touareg 3 can now adapt to these conditions, meaning the performance doesn't suffer despite the thinner air encountered at such altitudes.
In order to maintain these speeds in extreme off-road conditions the Race Touareg 3 needs to be able to withstand the rigours passing over sand dunes, through deep mud, and across gravel and broken tarmac roads. As a result the Race Touareg 3 is based on a high-strength steel spaceframe chassis with a pair of springs and damper units fitted to every corner in order to protect the vehicle against severe impacts. A set of specially developed BF Goodrich 235/85 R16 tyres provide the grip while a pair of wheels and tyres are carried by the vehicle at all times.
Volkswagen have also launched their new Amarok pick up which was the Official Support Vehicle of this year's Dakar rally. The Amarok will join Volkswagen's range of vans and used vans later in the year.
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- The New Volkswagen Phaeton is coming to US! (inautonews.com)
- Volkswagen Launches New Van Maintainance Scheme (Muddy's Van News)
- Volkswagen Race Touareg 3 teased, confirmed and under development (autoblog.com)
300mpg Electric Car Built by School Kids
Monday, 16 August 2010
Video: How Not To Drive
Perhaps the driver of the van thought he was staring in The Fast and the Furious or maybe he was suffering from a bouffee delirant. Either way I don't believe that it was a woman driver as the title says - women just aren't that daft.
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Monitor Your Fleet with Smart Cameras
Many fleets already using tracking software to keep tracks on where their vans have been but is this enough? What happens if you have a crash and the blame is unfairly attributed to you? Smart Witness sell vehicle CCTV systems which can record the movements of your fleet at all times.
The camera is backed up by an on-board GPS system which records the vehicle's location as well as the speed and direction of travel. The video below shows the results, note the speed and location in yellow text at the bottom of the image.
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
Volkswagen Launches New Van Maintainance Scheme
"We're launching this fixed price servicing programme as an extension of the Service Promise we introduced last year, allowing customers of older Volkswagens to enjoy the same standards of aftersales care as owners of newer cars. When we asked customers what they wanted, transparent servicing costs were top of the list. We're confident that by introducing these and offering service and maintenance by Volkswagen experts with the latest training who have instant access to the right tools and technology, there will be no reason for owners of older vehicles to look outside the network for aftersales care." - Stephen Butt Head of Customer Services, Volkswagen.
Volkswagen cars or vans aged between three and ten years, with an engine up to and including 2.0 litres in capacity will now cost £30 to MOT, while minor services are priced at flat rate of £119. Other services will fall into one of three categories:
- Maintenance covers major issues such as air conditioning services, replacement of brake pads, and a cambelt change.
- Convenience includes a courtesy lift, collect and deliver service or a loan car while the service is taking place.
- Car Care for small dents, chips or alloy wheel refurbishment, enabling a professional repair to the vehicle.
Full details of the new fixed price servicing scheme can be found here or by visiting your local participating Volkswagen Van Retailer.
Tuesday, 3 August 2010
Van News Round Up
Tata Motors Registeres 41% Growth In July 2010
India's largest commercial vehicle maker, Tata Motors registered a growth of 41% selling 67,799 vehicles in July 2010
Gentex strikes SmartBeam deal with Volkswagen
Gentex Corporation has announced that its SmartBeam high-beam assist system is now available on nine Volkswagen models...
Mercedes-Benz Vario undergoes a facelift
The Mercedes-Benz Vario is undergoing a facelift and is set to receive a new drivetrain...
Thursday, 22 July 2010
The Driverless Van Travelling from Italy to China
A team of Italian engineers have designed two driverless vans which are so advanced that they are capable of driving on public roads. The team are from VisLab who create artificial vision and intelligent systems at the University of Parma. They have set out on a journey from Italy to China to prove the road worthiness of their robotic vehicles.
The team are expecting to experience problems during the 8,000 mile trip stating ""We will definitely need some help by humans. It is not possible to have 100 percent driverless. This is why I call it a test, not a demonstration." There is no need to worry though, there will be operatives in the drivers seats of the vehicles ready to take over in the event of any technical issues. Each driverless van will follow a traditional human controlled van in convoy.
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- Driverless Vans Traveling from Italy to China (neatorama.com)
The Worst Van Advert Ever?
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
Kent Police Get Stuck Rescuing Man from Security Van
The man in question became trapped in his secure van after accidentally setting off the van's security system designed to protect it from potential armed robbers. As if that wasn't embarrassing enough there was a crowd of eyewitnesses:
"At first we didn't realise what had happened, the alarm on the van was shouting out 'this van is under attack, please call the police, please call the police'. Me and a colleague just thought it was a malfunction, but then I could see the van moving and knew someone was inside."
Things took a turn for the worse once the local police turned up. Two officers managed to get themselves trapped inside the van also without even freeing the driver much to the amusement of the crowd and fellow police officers:
"One managed to find a way into the escape hatch and got inside to see if the guard was OK, but then shut the hatch and got stuck himself. His colleague then somehow managed to get to the front of the van to try and free the pair, but she got stuck in the driver's seat as the doors would not open.
Then lots of coppers turned up and started laughing, but after about 15 minutes one of them had managed to get through to the security company and I believe some sort of pass code was activated to disable the alarm and all were then able to get out. The guard was fine and the police left laughing their heads off."
The fact that nobody managed to free themselves until the security company had provided the pass code goes to show just how secure these vans are. The police are probably just glad that they got trapped inside with the driver and not with an armed robber!
Amazing Solar/Wind Powered Van
Friday, 25 June 2010
World Cup Fever Strikes Volkswagen Van Centres
Image via WikipediaDuring the World Cup we expect to see countless cars with England flags attached on the roads showing their support for the national team. What are less common are cars and vans which are completely decorated. You may however of spotted some VW vans on the road with complete bumper to bumper designs in red and white.
With World Cup fever gripping the country, Volkswagen Van Centres are joining in with appropriately themed liveries for some of their display and demonstrator vans. In order to show their support for the England team several vans have been customized using the traditional red and white colours of the flag of St George.
Robinsons Van Centre in Norwich has turned a white Volkswagen Transporter van into a mobile England flag with a red cross on the bonnet and sides to replicate the St George cross, plus the England 'three lions' shield.
On a bigger scale, Abridge Van Centre in Essex has given Volkswagen's biggest van, the Crafter, an even more striking makeover with an England flag and images of some of the players. This seems to have really captured the attentions of the locals due to it's attention-grabbing design.
'The Crafter is really eye-catching and people actually stop and point at it when you drive down the street,' said Wendy Williamson, Brand Manager, Abridge Volkswagen Van Centre. 'It's amazing how many people are asking to drive it, and we're sure somebody will want to buy it as it is,' she continued.
'These vans show our Van Centres are creative and on the ball. We hope the England team will be as clever and successful on Sunday,' said David George, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Hopefully the England team will put in such a good performance on Sunday to defeat the German team. If not and we go out on penalties the fact that Volkswagen is a German brand may be remembered by those who were so keen to buy the fully decorated Crafter van!
Video of the Week: Joystick Controlled Van
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
Volkswagen SA Celebrate the World Cup
Volkswagen South Africa's 6000 employees have been getting involved in the world cup which is the first to be played on African soil. The staff are lucky enough to be able to watch games as they happen:
"Volkswagen of South Africa is making the World Cup accessible to all its employees by installing big screen TV's in all the production areas so staff can watch the South African games. A further 6 000 South African National Team t-shirts and 7 000 vuvuzelas have been handed over to staff with 1,636 soccer tickets up for grabs as employee incentive programmes and lucky draws."
I can only imagine what effect the constant buzz of the vuvuzelas is having on productivity. The VW South Africa staff need to keep their head in the game as they are required to produce 600 VW vans and cars a day. The plant is doing well providing vehicles for South Africa and beyond, if you've ever been to SA you will have seen plenty of vans for hire and sale.
Volkswagen South Africa has arranged four roadshows for staff at their Uitenhage plant in the run up to the world cup. The events, which took place at lunch time in order to keep productivity at a maximum, featured Diski Dancers(Diski meaning football. The dancer performed moves based on football maneuvers such as the "sandwich", the "shuffle", the "heada" and the "shoe-shine".
Tuesday, 1 June 2010
Monday, 24 May 2010
Transit Van Tops Most Stolen List
"The rise in thefts of vans demonstrates their potential value in terms of spare parts, scrap metal and the prospect of stealing extra 'booty' within the contents of the van. Often, these stolen vehicles are dismantled quickly, so our advice to vehicle owners is to ensure that their security is as tight as possible." - Detective Chief Inspector Mark Hooper."
The only other van to feature on the list was the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter which shows that commercial vehicles require tough security features. Commercial vans are like kinder eggs to thieves hence the prevalence of sticks stating 'no tools are left in this vehicle overnight' etc.
The list in full:
1. Ford Transit
2. Ford Fiesta
3. Vauxhall Astra
4. Volkswagen Golf
5. Vauxhall Corsa
6. Ford Focus
7. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
8. Ford Mondeo
9. Ford Escort
10. Vauxhall Vectra
So if you drive a commercial van remember to make sure your van is secure at all times. Empty the contents whenever possible and don't advertise to thieves by leaving the doors open unnecessarily. When looking at vans for sale consider the security measures in place to prevent your van from becoming a statistic.
Minivans In Japan
Monday, 10 May 2010
Van Art by Kevin Cyr
Kevin Cyr painted the vans in a simple style which gives them the look of miniatures or zoological studies. Their plain, single colour backgrounds show them divorced from reality although their customized paint schemes show that they are anything but.
Cyr seems to have a preoccupation with vehicles - his other work includes paintings of lorries and campervans. He even creates die-cast miniature vans with an amazing eye for detail. Cyr says that he sees beauty in vans which to others may look unkempt:
In a culture in which people are easily lured by the appeal of status-enhancing symbols, I find beauty in derelict cars and unkempt landscapes. I have always been interested in painting vehicles and scenes that have defined the evolution of the American landscape.
Cyr has exhibited around the world and his work has been featured in numerous magazines. He has paintings of vans for sale with 20x200.com who specialize in affordable art in editions of 200. See more of his work at his site kevincyr.net.
Van Racing Video
Wednesday, 5 May 2010
The EU Considers Manditory Speed Limiters for all Vans
The report is part of a larger dialogue on the practicalities of introducing mandatory fuel efficiency standards for all vans for sale. This comes two years after the introduction of such standards for new cars. the report is expected to recommend reducing emissions to 150 grams of carbon dioxide per km by 2020 despite the European Commission recommending a limit of 135g.
The proposed changes have received some criticism here in the UK despite a national speed limit of 70 mph. The EU report states:
"These vehicles are almost exclusively used for commercial purposes and do not need to exceed 120 km per hour. The technology is available to do this; it is a cheap and effective way of immediately lowering emissions and many commercial organisations retro-fit them to their vehicles."
British politician Chris Davies believes that limiting the speed of vans is a good idea but doesn't go far enough: ""Vans are a tool for business and commerce, and we should be trying to reduce the costs for business," he said. "If we don't do better, we will leave business less efficient."
Vans And The Places Where They Were
For more information and to see all the images visit Joe Steven's page at Arlo artists.
Friday, 30 April 2010
Post Election Environmental Legislation Expected to Boost Electric Van Sales
Labour has previously proposed tax breaks for electric vehicle fleets in order to encourage the transition to electric vehicles where possible. There are of course many obstacles to going electric for a lot of van users such as the reduced mileage and lack of topping up points. Those who cannot update to an electric fleet until these issues are worked out will be looking towards vehicles with lower emissions and low running costs.
Boris Johnson has warned of his plans to charge vehicles with excessive emissions which wish to enter the congestion zone in central London. This plan was designed to encourage those still running older commercial vehicles to upgrade to new vans or even new fleets. This move is also being welcomed by van manufacturers as it is expected to speed up people's plans to upgrade to newer vehicles.
Bizzare Volkswagen Beetle/Camper combo
The great thing about this set up as opposed to using a traditional tow bar is that the range of movement is expanded. The driver is able drive freely without worrying about jackknifing the trailer. It hard to explain but it all makes sense if you see a video of the trailer in action.
Friday, 23 April 2010
Volkswagen extend hire and leasing finance offers on Vans
We still offer traditional hire purchase and lease purchase finance, but more and more customers prefer the convenience and affordability of contract van hire and finance lease as it helps to improve their cash flow, manage their budgets and instead of having to sell the vehicle at the end of the term they can simply hand it back and start a new agreement for a new vehicle. -Simon Elliott of VWC
All vehicles purchased are eligible for free insurance for seven days and nights from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Insurance. Volkswagen Van Centres also offer fixed-cost maintenance packages to suit individual requirements. More information available at the Volkswagen Vans site.
Drag Racing Plumbers Van
Monday, 12 April 2010
Van Sales Increase for 3rd Successive Month
New van registrations have been growing month on month since the beginning of the year with 34,691 registered in March. Whilst this is clearly a good sign the commercial vehicles industry is still not back where it once was. The first quarter of 2010 has seen 192,917 registrations which is a decrease of 22.4% on last years figure.
Those trading new or used vans, or operating van hire services will no doubt be feeling positive about the statistics. Whilst there is a long way still to go it is heartening to see things moving in the right direction. As the economy begins to recover the demand for vans is set to rise. Increased production will also be a positive step for the commercial vehicles industry.
What the industry needs now is continued, constant growth. The best way to return to previous levels is slowly, this will reduce the risk of supply outgrowing demand. Hopefully in three months time I will be able to report on six months of continued growth!
Video: Extreme Motorhome Racing
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Duck Survives Journey from Belgium to England in Van Grille
500 miles later Paul stopped at a service station on the M1 to further inspect the damage and was surprised to see the body of the duck inside the grille. Assuming the duck was as dead as a dead duck he used a screwdriver to open up the grille and get the body out. Just when he was about to go and buy some plum sauce he noticed that the duck was actually breathing.
"All of a sudden I saw this green head behind the radiator. I couldn't believe it. My first thought was 'Oh dear, it's dead, what am I going to do here?' because it wasn't moving. When its feathers moved I put it down to the wind, but then I saw it was breathing. I couldn't believe it."
Plucky, as he was later named, only suffered from a broken wing and a bleeding beak. He is now recovering at the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals hospital in Leeds. Let this be a lesson to you - next time you hire a van in London make sure it doesn't have a Belgian duck wedged in it anywhere.
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Commercial Vans Likely to Dominate Electric Vehicle Market
The limitations of the current crop of electric vehicles have so far prevented them from being widely used in the commercial sector. so far they are less reliable and harder to run than the traditional vans for sale. Improvements are expected as the technology advances over the coming years and this is likely to have a big effect on popularity. With this in mind Frost & Sullivan see the commercial sector leading the way and accounting for well over half of all new electric vehicle sales.
Proposed tax breaks for electric vans may make those operating traditional vans consider investing in new fleets. Buses are also prime candidates to be replaced: their repetitive routes mean that charging could be less of an issue. Bus routes tend to begin and end at the bus station which means that they can be charged on a day-to-day bases unlike long haul trucks and lorries.
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
How Not to Drive a Van Part #256
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Volkswagen Lauches Free iPhone App
The new Polo is part of VW's BlueMotion range which aim to be highly fuel efficient in order to be more environmentally friendly and cheaper to run. This explains why the aim of the new game is to drive as fuel efficiently as possible. It might not sound terribly exciting but it is at least different, there are hundreds of driving games and as far as I know only one focuses on fuel efficiency.
"Fishlabs [who designed the game] has implemented the concept of fuel economy not only creatively, but also in an entertaining fashion, it shows that fuel economy can also be virtual fun." - Cornelia Lenz of Volkswagen.
As mentioned earlier, this is the 4th game VW have created although they have yet to create a game featuring their vans. I would like to see a game which allowed you to customize a classic old split screen van or at least something showing all of their vans for sale. Then again maybe I'm just a van nerd!
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
Is This The Van Of The Future?
Aside from debate about what might power the van of the future it is clear that it will need to fit a lot of features into a small space. Improvements in product design and materials will allow us to build lighter, more economical van which still feature everything plus the kitchen sink.
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
Van Registrations Remain Low
A total of 13,099 new commercial vehicles were registered in January down 34.5% year on year. These figures will come as no surprise to most in the new or used vans markets, although they are by no means totally bad news. It is hoped that the worst January since 1992 will encourage the Government to offer more support for van sales companies and those who rely upon them.
Paul Everitt of the SMMT is cautiously optimistic:
"New van and truck registrations continue to reflect a weak economic recovery and businesses reluctant to commit to new investment. These are the lowest January truck registrations since 1992, leaving most truck makers very disappointed at the slow start to the year. It is extremely important that government uses the upcoming Budget to encourage new investment in capital goods and help re-build business confidence."
Top Gear Man With a Van challenge
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Campervans to be banned in New Zealand?
The board thinks that 'freedom campers' should be banned if they are not willing to clean up after themselves. They have "voted unanimously to draft a letter to their Department of Conservation superiors calling for the Government to ban campervans." It has also been suggested that companies offering van hire should be made legally responsible for the actions of their customers.
This seems outrageous to me, if the campervan contains a bin it is up to those driving it to use it. Why should van hire be banned rather than action taken against those who litter?
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Mercedes-Benz To Lauch Electric Van
Mercedes announced their plans this week in San Sebastian says that they will make up to 2000 of the electric vehicles. They will have the same load carrying capabilities as the non-electric Vito although they will require recharging every 130 km. This makes the van ideal for urban use but not long distances.
Thursday, 4 February 2010
Rat Look Vans
You might not be familiar with the term 'rat look' when it comes to describing vans and cars but you will have seen them on your travels. A Rat van will look deliberately distressed and at first sight may appear to be falling apart. If you were offered one of these by a van hire company you would think they were winding you up but these vans can actually be worth a lot of money.
It is normally classic older vans and cars which people choose to customize in this way in order to emphasize their age. Despite their appearances these vehicles are normally in great working order and normally a lot cleaner inside than out! The amount of time that goes into making a van look old and decrepit can be surprising. In fact the owners of these vans will have spent a lot of time and money on the look of their vehicles in order to cultivate this look.
Some car owners will rust one panel section which I always think looks a bit daft. If you are going to reject the idea that cars should look shinny and new then you might as well go all the way and have a car which gets complaints from the neighbours!
Monday, 1 February 2010
Crazy Van Jump
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Is the Worst Over for Van Sales?
Sales of used vans and new vans were badly hit by the recession as personal and business spending was greatly reduced. Most businesses kept outgoings to a minimum in order to secure jobs so increasing fleet size or investing in new vans wasn't an option. It is now hoped that sales of new vehicles will increase. This would most likely lead to an increase in used vans sales also.
Sales across Europe dropped by almost a third in 2009 although this eased towards the end of the year. The government's 'bangers for cash' scheme was criticized for focusing on private vehicles rather than supporting the commercial vehicles industry. Despite this sales have improved as spending has increased with December of 2009 only seeing a drop in sales of about 10% compared to 2008.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
How Not To Drive Your Van in the Snow!
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
VW to bring SmallCars to the European Market
"Europe is shifting to compact and small cars due to rising petrol costs as well as concerns of climate change. Suzuki has the expertise to make small cars, Volkswagen does not. The German company has the expertise in environment friendly technology and has invested large sums. Combining the two will reduce cost of making new cars. Volkswagen, which has a stronger dealership network in Europe compared to Suzuki, could source small cars from India and sell them under its own brand name,"
R C Bhargava, Chairman of Suzuki
Between them Volkswagen and Suzuki are aiming to create the first small car with widespread appeal. The Mercedes Smart Car is the most common small car in the UK thus far but Volkswagen hope to be able to provide something even more popular. It is not yet clear what will be produced but given recent events it can be assumed that a more environmentally friendly car is likely to emerge.
The Suzuki-Volkswagen collaboration is also expected to target the Indian market. Suzuki currently sell 20% of their vehicles to India where the small car market is booming. India is developing at such a pace that car and van manufacturers are seeing it as a vital market with thousands of potential new customers.
"VW's presence in the Indian market is fairly at a nascent stage, while Maruti (Suzuki) has over 25 years of experience. When you develop new cars, you need to tune them to the needs of the local market. Suzuki will bring about a number of such intangible resources that can greatly benefit VW operations in India,"
Abdul Majeed, auto head, PricewaterhouseCoopers


text:
Hope you've had a great week ... we've all been busy creating, designing - and have a great mix of goodies new in my Scrapbookgraphics store this week - all on special for a limited time:
All products are on special for a few days only!!
PHOTO EMPHASIS TEMPLATES VOLs 05 and 06: Do you have large photo's which totally deserve to be the main attraction on your pages and projects ... then this is the pack for you. Set of 4 layered 12x12 inch .PSD and .TIF files as separate downloads for your preference (or both). Lots of additional layered extra's to enhance the beauty of your photographic masterpieces. Use just as they are, flip them, rotate them, add layers - do your own thing and have fun with them.
DISPLAY POCKETS #2: My first pocket pack proved really popular, so here's a second set to get you creating. Created with much love and attention to detail, they are very realistic! - here's what you get: 9 pocket combinations as separate .PNG files and 9 pocket combinations as layered .PSD files - these include masks all ready for you to clip your papers and photo's and empty pockets for you to fill up to your hearts content - think of all those little treasures you collection on a Summer vacation, or the flowers, leaves and bugs collected in your own backyard; trinkets and treasures from a much loved hobby/collection ... the list is endless. Have fun filling these babies with all manner of goodies, including stuff for your Project 365/6 and Project 52 - think out of the box! Display pockets come with their own realistic shadows. Sizes range from (almost) 12x12", 8x8" and 6x6"
NIBBLED, CHEWED & SPAT OUT TEMPLATES: Funky layered templates in .PSD format, these are a great way to add layers with a difference to your pages and projects. It's like they've been attacked with a hole punch and the punched out pieces remain scattered on the page. Instructions for use included in the download. You can turn the shadows off and do your own thing, or use just as they are … clip them to your favourite papers and/photo's.
Need a little inspiration ... take a peek at these fabulous CT pages this week (and a few from me)


text:
For various reasons I couldn't get out to run this weekend (kids birthday party & sick hubby), but today I couldn't put it off any longer. The weather is fantastic - about 14 degrees and sunny (much better than the weekend was!). This meant that I had to get my sunglasses on, which worried me that they would irritate me.... Oh, and I couldn't fin my normal earphones, so I had to use some "over" ear, not "in" ear.... also worried me they would slip etc.
1 false start getting out of the house (locked up, front door key attached to double knotted shoe lace), need to pee again. Undo shoes, unlock house, do the business, redo everything. Ready?! Yup, let's go.
I made sure my walk was brisk enough to get my blood going, trying to avoid those lead legs we all know and hate. Started to jog at 5 mins and found a nice pace. As I ran a route I have done before I had a mix of... "oh I used to only get to here before it was time to turn around" and "ouch my shins", "you mad woman", "oooooo that hill in the blackforest is lovely", "oh look I can also see the Vosges from here too", "owww, ewhhh", "ahh the maize hasn't grown much", "huh!?, did she just say I've done 15 minutes already!?!?"....
Then the 20 minutes were up and I was disappointed because I had fuel in my legs still!!! (must be the weetabix I ate earlier). So I kept going until it was the end of the 5 mnutes walking time
So by my calculations and with the help of Google maps, I ran about 3.5km in 25 minutes and that is approx. 8.5km/h. Considering I couldn't have done this 5 weeks ago I am WELL chuffed and so excited I might just cry (runners high perhaps ).
If you are reading this and wondering if you can do this, you can, and let us all support you!
& If you are reading this as someone who is already on your journey from the couch to wherever it takes you; thank you ALL for your support and encouragement & good luck with your quest! It helps to have so many people who understand and who are egging each other on.