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Proj. Man Final Paper
One of the first steps that should be taken by the project management team is to develop the project management Plan. This plan can help serve as a guide for much of the project, although it also evolves as the project takes shape as it is not a static document. Regarding a Project Management Plan Amr Miqdadi wrote: "A formal, approved document that defines how the project is managed, executed, and controlled. It may be summary or detailed and may be composed of one or more subsidiary management plans and other planning documents". (Miqdadi, 2011) Using the information the project manager would be in possession of when starting the project right after it was awarded they should first identify the key stakeholders and create a stakeholder register and a communications matrix. Creating the stakeholder register and the communications matrix would help identify the key players and contact information as well as providing a readily available means to reach the said key players at any critical times without having to search for the needed contact information. This information can also be used to help create organizational charts and assist with determining chain of command within the project.
Possibly their next step would be to develop a draft of the project charter and presentation from the other information they were in possession of i.e. the Request for Proposal from Fiction Corp, submitted proposal to Fiction Corp and any additional communications since. During this meeting I would ensure that all expectations from Fiction Corp were understood and documented if not already documented and provide them with copies of contact information for the team.
Upon completion of the kickoff meeting with the stakeholders the project management team may decide to roll right into the initial meeting with the Project Team to bring them up to date. According to the project management institute in People in Projects getting buy in from the team members doing the work is often a major key to a successful project (Project Management Institute, 2001), and the initial meeting can set the stage for this. During this meeting if I had not already done so I would select my team leads. Once the teams were setup I would then provide the teams some time to brainstorm any improvements to the current plan and provide said inputs. Key milestones would be identified by the team and responsibilities assigned. A tentative schedule would be disseminated and the team contract drafted. Using all the inputs to this point the team would then create a draft of the Scope Statement. I believe this method could help with team building and assure all team members had buy in as well as seeing the "Big Picture".
Another activity during the initial team meeting will be some brainstorming on risk management and some ways to reduce risks to this project as well as some possible alternatives that may be invoked if the need to mitigate risks on budget or schedule crop up.
Acceptance of the Team Contract and Scope Statement would be very important so taking those from draft form to finished copy and acceptance would be priority. The acceptance of the scope statement by Fiction Corp is crucial for Project Scope Management, when the stakeholders buy in and abide scope creep is much more containable. Once both had been accepted the initialization phase would be complete even though the initialization process continues to occur as the project proceeds from phase to phase. With the step into the planning phase the Project Management team can start working on composing work packages and a work breakdown structure or WBS while the site survey team starts the site survey. Much of the schedule was planned when preparing the proposal in response to the Request for Proposal. Breaking the time schedule down and linking the individual tasks and work packages and assigning these to individuals will be one of the main steps in...
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Busy week! Going slowing through a fascinating survey of Genesis in OT History and I have about six blog posts swirling around in my mind. But I can't seem to get too much quality time on the computer this week.
Todd said there's a really funny song clip on KLTY that all moms will enjoy. I missed it this morning, but it will replay locally (94.9) at 7:30 on Friday morning (tomorrow). Check it out!
The CEO of the local chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters spoke at Todd's workplace yesterday. He shared some sad and frightening stats with respect to children in our midst who are suffering, and news about alarming downward trends in U.S. academic competitiveness. I'm going to try to track down the speaker and get some more information to pass along here.
I've been cold and clammy ever since I heard about the science fair log book. Someone please reassure me that this, too, will pass...
Need a trustworthy, top-notch house painter in the DFW area? Martin Tester & Sons painted the inside of our home this summer and did an incredible job. It's a wonderful Christian family business that's been painting for nearly 20 years. Martin's son, Dennis, even did a "handyman" project for us and refused to accept money. "I'd drive around helping people all day if I could," he said. Nice guys. You can call Martin at: 817/656-7203. They get busy, so you may want to plan ahead and cue up...
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Posted by Sarah Onderdonk at 8:58 PM
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subset: commoncrawl


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Man, August; what a lame blogging month.
I pulled out my old trumpet earlier this week and tootled around a bit. My range is pretty much completely gone, but it still left my lips pleasantly tingly. Nobody can kiss the way a trumpet can.
We painted two more rooms this morning, which leaves two left. Sigh.... I cannot tell if that is a sigh of relief or a sigh of despair. This project is taking FOREVER but it is entirely worth it. I will post pictures Tuesdayish, after some furniture and whatnot gets moved around.
I am reading me some Diana Wynne Jones (Chronicles of Chrestomanci) and can I just say once again how sorry I am that she's dead? This stuff is great.
In other news, I am doing something rather daring next week. I am going to dye my hair for the first time. Maybe this is a bad idea? Maybe it is a good idea but I chose a bad color? WHO KNOWS. The good thing about hair is that for most people (particularly women my age) it grows back. Anyway, you should be in complete suspense. Also you should tell me what color you would like to see my head just in case it turns out terrible* and I need to change it ASAP but am too depressed to pick out anything for myself. That is what friends are for.
*The English major inside me thinks that "terrible" should be in adverb form here but the normal person inside me is all, "NO. People don't talk like that. At least not Americans." So as a compromise we are leaving a footnote, acknowledging the difference of opinion.
Driven to Greatness
1 month ago


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Or so it seems since I have posted a Greeting Farm image :) And please excuse the crappy picture. Diem dropped this camera a while back and I have been with out a camera and at the time this was the best case scenario. But I got a new camera, and soon enough better pictures will be arriving!!
I used a MS punch, and layered different papers on top of each others for this look. I have seen it done on other cards around the blog world, and I figured I would try it out. I love how it looks, and so I figure I will do this again soon :)
My little Anya is colored with Prismas and SU markers (Typical I know!)


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Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Ten on Tuesday: random thoughts as I supervise the washing machine...
Random thought #2- I'm thinking of kicking ye olde blog to the curb. After making books and ensuring I have all these years of memories in print, it just feels like it's time for it to go. I don't make the time for it anymore. I don't like how much information I freely give away. There are so many other ways to connect with the people I started this blog for and the friends I've made through it. It's just time.
Random thought #3- Moving sucks. It just plain sucks. There are fun parts. It's exciting to see new places, but overall...Most of the time, I'm good with change. I embrace the benefits. And then there are times when I'm sobbing in the bathroom mirror at another new church while I feed my baby, smelling stench because said church doesn't have a cry room and all I can think is, "this is NOT the one and there will nevereverever be another church like Montrose!" True story.
Random thought #4- That church was not the church for us. But(!), we did find a church. This one is not like Montrose in some ways, and exactly like it in others. The preachers would be friends. This preacher is very Gospel focused, just like Dr. Fentress. I was super convicted on Sunday, as if the message was meant just for me. And that's how I know it's the one.
Random thought #5- Sundays at church, tend to mean kids are sick by Tuesday. I have never attended a church that has been an exception to that rule. Once I get my foot in the door, I may just start a cleaning committee. It's a Baptist church and everyone knows just how excited Baptists get about committees. :) I'd also like to completely take over snacks. It's always befuddled me as to why anyone would want to shove snacks into kids who have just come from breakfast and will likely eat lunch just after church. Added to that, the snacks are typically sugar laden with enough dye to send a room full of small kiddos into full spin cycle. Why do that to ourselves, the adults in charge of the lunatics??! Why do that to the kids?
Random thought #6- On a similar note, Simon has been showing signs of MSG allergy/sensitivity in the form of migraine headaches. I know people think I'm a freak about fast food or over the top about what my kids eat, but the last time Simon was grabbing his head, unable to function because it hurt so badly and I was able to pinpoint why...I was not a happy mama.
Random thought #7- Sean's first week in the OR was eye opening. He came home two days last week at 3am and was back up at 4:45. Last year was a huge time commitment, too, but he didn't have people lives in his hands. I can feel his stress. We're already adjusting and I can sense that it will get better as time goes on. Not better in the sense that it will magically become less time consuming, better in that we will adjust. I'm just ready for the end. I'm anxious for what is to come. I'm eager to plateau and settle in to a new norm. Shift work? Yes, please. On call? I'll take it. Weekends that we can actually do stuff? We're going camping!
Random thought #8- The reason Sean should never let me Craigslist: slate. I picked up a lovely "chalkboard" at a garage sale nowhere near our house. I found the garage sale on Craigslist and justified the 40 minute drive b/c the family was raising money to go get their daughter in China. I'm a sucker for adoption stories. I was shocked at people haggling at such a yard sale. Anyways, the chalkboard turned out to be a GIANT piece of slate. The lady that sold it to me sent her husband with it a few days later(as neither of us could lift it into my van), just after Sean had left for school. Oi. Thankfully, our landlord/homeowner stepped in and saved the day. Every time I walk by it(it's probably...5.5 ft wide by 4.5 tall and 100+ lbs), I giggle. :)
Random thought #9- I have reached the post-partum state of hair loss. At the same time, Jude has reached that sticky baby hand phase that just doesn't mix well. I like my hair long, it's curling great at this very moment, yet I want to take a razor to it and call it good. Luckily, a free (enough for a haircut) moment will not arise any time in the next, oh, eighteen months or so.
Random thought #10- My aunt, uncle, and a few of my cousins stopped by this morning on their way through Gem City(still not sure why it's called that...). It was fun. It felt comfortable in the way that family does. We haven't seen each other in years, but there's an undeniable bond that goes beyond our curly hair and dimples that come from the same gene pool. For the first time in my life, we live close enough to my extended family to go visit. Often!
And a totally random picture to round out the post. This was a few weeks ago. Mr. Jude is quite the little beefcake.
1 comment:
- Corey said...
I understand if you have to let the blog go. What do I have to say about it...i basically quit blogging without notice about 7 months ago LOL! Oh well
When you move to California, you all can come to our church...we have a nursery with a speaker back there so new moms can hear the sermon AND let the baby cry and nurse and whatever without sitting in a pew or having to get up and leave in the middle of the meeting. AND we also have plenty of moms to all take turns babysitting so you can actually go sit IN the sanctuary every now and then. :D See why you need to move out here?!! ;-) We do still seem to have that snack problem tho. Luckily my 2 aren't subject to it anymore.
About the MSG thing...I think my kid has an allergy to it to. Jake had that same headache thing a few months ago at my moms. Couldn't figure out how he was having such a horrible headache at 9 years old. The only conclusion I could come to was the food. My mom still has a LOT of processed food in her house and that day had made Kraft Mac-n-Cheese and had a bunch of chips and stuff. I honestly think that was it. I'm not 100% whole foods in my house, but we don't eat stuff like that anymore. He hasn't had a headache since then.


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'At The Movies' gets two new hosts - A.O. Scott and Michael Phillips
After a one year run with new hosts, 'At the Movies' on Wednesday named a new pair of film critics to replace them as co-host its long running program.
Disney's daytime television unit is letting two of its guest film critics for the weekly half hour program take over permanently, giving them the head jobs in the new season to A.O. (Tony) Scott of The New York Times and Michael Phillips of The Chicago Tribune.
They are regarded by millions of people as authorities in film criticism and will take the series back to its roots of one-on-one film debate that was established when the show first began with Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel, said Brian Frons, president, Daytime, Disney-ABC Television Group.
The new pair replaces Ben Lyons, who had been a film critic at E! Entertainment and Ben Mankiewicz, who had hosted Turner Classic Movies and radio show The Young Turks.
Scott, who has been a film critic at the The New York times for nearly 10 years, said the show stands for the idea that there is a place on television for vigorous argument and independent thinking about movies.
Phillips has been a film critic at The Chicago Tribune since 2006, with previous positions at other publications including the Los Angeles Times and San Diego Union Tribune.
I can't wait to mix it up with Tony, Phillips said, referring to his co-host.
Both new hosts paid tribute to the show's long history, which starts its 24th season in September under Disney ownership.
Below is a brief synopsis from Disney-ABC Domestic Television about the show's history:
The show first began in 1975 at WTTW in Chicago when Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel hosted the local movie review show, Sneak Previews. In 1978, the show moved to PBS and was syndicated shortly thereafter by Tribune Syndication and was renamed At the Movies. In 1986, Disney-ABC Domestic Television (then known as Buena Vista Television) acquired the show, calling it Siskel & Ebert & the Movies.
Upon Gene Siskel's passing in 1999, the show retained the Siskel & Ebert title until the following fall when it became Roger Ebert & the Movies. In July 2000, Richard Roeper was named Ebert's new co-host and the show was retitled, Ebert & Roeper and the Movies. The show was renamed Ebert & Roeper in 2001 and subsequently was modified to At the Movies with Ebert & Roeper and then to At the Movies. Ebert and Roeper bid farewell to the series in 2008. Ben Lyons and Ben Mankewicz were named co-hosts in July 2008.


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CORESTATE Invests EUR 125m in Retail Properties in Germany
CORESTATE Capital Holding S.A. announces the acquisition of 18 single and well located retail properties in prime locations in pedestrian zones of German mid-sized cities such as Göttingen, Kaiserslautern, Lörrach or Lüneburg.
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After going from 7-14 to 16-8 last season, Oak Harbor girls basketball is hoping to take the next step and establish themselves with the elite teams in Northwest Ohio.
Thus far, Oak Harbor is off to a good start, currently holding a 4-1 record with a 2-0 mark in the Sandusky Bay Conference.
Led by sophomore forward Andrea Cecil, who burst onto the scene last year and was instrumental in leading the Rockets to an upset win over Perkins in the sectional tournament, Oak Harbor has been dominant in its four victories, outscoring opponents by an average of 55.8 to 41.3 points per game.
Cecil, who stands 5-foot-11, is averaging an even 20 points this year, highlighted by her 30-point performance in the team's opening-season road win over Rossford. Her versatile game, which allows her to handle the ball, move the ball up and down the court as well as shoot from the perimeter and play in the post, is the reason defenses have such a difficult time guarding her.
|Oak Harbor sophomore forward
Andrea Cecil. (Press photo by
Russ Lytle)
Cecil, who plays AAU ball during the offseason, feels more comfortable playing varsity ball with a year of experience to fall back on.
"It's incredible," she said of the difference between her freshman and sophomore years. "I feel like I belong. Last year, in the beginning, I was timid."
Cecil hasn't done it alone. Freshman guard Emma Barney, a second-team All-Ohio selection in soccer, is second on the team in scoring (13.6), followed by freshman forward Maddy Rathbun, who is averaging nine points.
Joining the three of them in the starting lineup is senior guard Amanda Hetrick and senior post Coral Petersen. Athena Eli (4.4 points), Olivia Rollins, Brandy Lochotzki and Emma Bergman are the primary reserves off the bench. Nikki Weis, who started in the post for the Rockets last season, has dealt with constant injuries to her knees and has seen limited action so far in 2013.
A number of these players have had to step up and replace some of the lost production from last year's seniors. Four key seniors from last year, Abbie Gezo, Maria Boers, Makayla Carpenter and Erin Bryant, graduated. Gezo and Boers were the club's top-two scorers and Carpenter was the starting point guard.
"Emma has replaced some of the scoring and Maddy has done a nice job in the post," Cecil said. "And Amanda is doing a good job playing the role of point guard."
Besides having several capable scorers, the Rockets have four players in Barney, Hetrick, Cecil and Eli that are capable of running the point. That versatility allows Oak Harbor to utilize their players' talents in a variety of ways.
Second-year coach Tom Kontak, known to many in the area for his success as the former coach of both the basketball and softball teams at Genoa, expects his players to play with passion. He also motivates his players to start each game with high intensity and energy by setting a goal for them to be the first team to score eight points.
Cecil says the players understand how vital that is to gaining a mental edge on their opponents.
"Getting to eight points first sets the tone," Cecil said. "And we know that if we're not whole-heartedly (invested) in the game, someone else can come in (and replace you)."
This season, Kontak, who was the Alan Miller Jeweler's All-Press Coach of the Year last year, has added a new element to his practices by bringing in local fitness instructor Tyson Smith to work on speed and conditioning with the girls. Smith, who owns a home-based fitness system called Fully Committed 5150, has been instrumental in helping to improve the team's stamina and endurance, something that can prove to be critical in the final minutes of a game.
"Last year we didn't do the conditioning thing," Cecil said. "It kicks our butts, and it really helps us. We're in better shape than our opponents (this year)."
Cecil also credits the coaches with helping to run an offseason program that keeps the girls in shape and helps them to develop a rapport with each other. Kontak, who is 107-52 (.637) in his last seven years as a head coach, built a program at Genoa that won two league titles, not to mention a successful softball program that came just short of winning a state title in 2006. He says that building a strong foundation within the program is the key to sustaining success.
"It's nice knowing who you're going to be playing with," Cecil said, "and getting used to playing with each other. That makes it easier when the season starts."


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Thirty Something?
Yep, 30 - 3.0. That's what Paul is! (Now you know)
We celebrated Paul's somewhat dreaded, (but turned out happy) 30th birthday a week and a half ago (yep, I am way late on this post, let alone any recent post. After two or three attempted posts on the birthday boy - I had dug out sweet pics of him from his study abroad - hippy lovin', longer hair than he has now, rock climb every chance he got, live off one outfit and two pairs of underwear while seeing the world days in Italy ..... then the pics kept freaking out on me when I would go to post them, and then the computer went crazy on me .........) anyhow, now I am finally posting on the birthday boy). We went camping and rock climbing for Paul's birthday. This first pic is of Paul's old rock climbing days, but I thought it was pretty cool (we'll pretend he didn't help me pick it out). The 2nd and 3rd pics show our birthday camping/climbing adventure! And then there is Paul pushing Taya on a swing during a lunch picnic where Taya and I went to meet him during his work day. Paul is such a playful and loving dad. Taya loves him so much, and so do I :) ... aawwww...
Then there is a picture of Paul working outside of our garage, painting baseboards that he is going to install in our bedrooms/bathrooms soon. In addition to installing our bamboo floors, smooth texturing our walls and ceilings, making Taya's crib, taking charge of home organization (yes, I know, I am the closet/storage designer & I don't do it? .. a little sad), installing ceiling fans, and lots of other home improvement tasks, Paul has cut, routed, painted and installed all of our baseboards. I am really grateful for his huge initiative, talents, and work ethic. It's too bad for him I don't quite match up to him in these areas.
Besides Paul's talents, hard work and handy-man-ness, I LOVE watching him play with Taya - it's a good thing one of us can loosen up around her - (don't know if I'll say this next time he's flipping her around or feeding her chips or ice cream) ... I love Paul's athenticity and down-to-earth sense, and his sense of humor. I appreciate Paul's friendliness and ability to make people feel comfortable. I wish the post would have allowed me to post some of the old pics that I wanted to like crazy faced pics of Paul from a crazy face picture session of his family.
You are thirty Paul! It's exciting! Older and wiser (we'll see ;)!
Happy Birthday Paul!! (Who says you can't celebrate all month?)
So guess who Paul is told he looks like? ..........
This picture from our overnight camping trip turned out kinda funny/interesting. I was trying to get a pic of Taya and me by the campfire when Paul walked up and his head lamp happened to shine a lot of light on us. Don't we look like we're in some dramatic play or something? The wind was blowing too (I promise I didn't bring a fan for effects).


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Is it just me, or is the full moon in this newly downloaded image header actually flashing on and off, like a neon sign? Just to be on the safe sign, let me say that I found this image here. Not mine.
After a long day of church + loads and loads of laundry, mopping, sweeping, and cleaning... I have just made a pot of coffee and settled down in front of the computer, pursuant to putting off the kindergarten quilt project. Just for another hour or two... I suppose I'm also procrastinating on the Good Friday project, though I'm meeting with a dancer this week and that might kick-start things again. I am most certainly avoiding the Olympics, what's left of them.
In the interest of maintaining some sort of Lenten discipline, I took a break at around 2pm to find ten minutes of "quiet time." Having found it in bed, under the duvet, it was almost inevitable that I should fall asleep. But before the nap set in, I thought a little about church this morning -- about the quiet time we had after the sermon, during which all 80 or so people sat in near silence and I suppose relaxed into the space of the moment:
the sound of a newly-baptized infant burbling to itself, and kids playing upstairs in the nursery. Traffic occasionally rumbling past the front doors, and something else -- breath, I suppose. The silence of 80 people listening to silence is different in character from the sound of that same crowd listening to a sermon. We hear each other. And listening was the theme of the sermon (one that I had a tough time following today, and might try to catch again online, here. Apparently I wasn't listening very well.) At that time, during worship, I found myself thinking of the silence of Quakers -- the listening that is only broken when someone is genuinely moved by the Spirit, to speak or sing, or declaim. It's a reminder of collectivity, and I was really moved by it this morning -- church is my job, and I often forget how to relax into worship, on account of that. So the silence really was golden this morning.
80 people breathing together really is something. It's intimate, and I hunger for intimacy. Though perhaps not more than the next person. Are we aware of it? The effect of all our hurrying and freneticism is isolation. As someone said to me recently, just having time to do nothing if one chooses can result in a thawing -- of those layers of isolation, perhaps. 80 people breathing quietly together, and doing nothing else, free to think what they choose -- perhaps we thaw a little there too. Like when one holds hands with strangers for a few moments, to pray -- for just a few seconds, we're aware of each other in a new way. Maybe that's how we touched God today.
Day 17.


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Tell me again why we should reward the financial sector banksters again?
"The U.S. financial sectors that would be at the greatest risk would be those with business models that depend at least partially on short-term funding. These include banks, funds, finance companies, exchanges and clearinghouses, broker-dealers, and life insurers." <- not sure about you, but these people are not doing me any favors lately..
via S&P special report examines potential effects of US debt debate | Reuters.


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1 pkg (8 oz. ; 250 g) Cream cheese (light), softened to room temperature
1 container (1 L) Whipped topping (light), thawed in fridge
1/2 c. Sugar
24 Tart shells (frozen or homemade)
2-3 c. Wild blueberries
Several hours before tart assembly, wash the blueberries, lightly pat dry with paper towel and then air-dry as much as possible.
Bake tart shells as instructed on the box or your recipe until the edges are slightly brown. Set aside and allow to cool.
Using an electric beater, cream together the cream cheese and sugar.
Beat in the whipped topping until just blended.
To assemble the tarts, you have 2 options:
- Fold the washed blueberries into the cream cheese filling and divide them into the tart shells.
- Cover the bottom of the tart with berries. Drop a large spoonful of cream cheese filling on the blueberries. Place more blueberries on top of the filling. (This works best with wild blueberries because they are smaller.)
My comments:
When I saw the wild blueberries at a local farmer's market a few weeks ago, I knew I had to have them. But they were too expensive to justify a random, spontaneous purchase. Then I had the brilliant idea to serve them at my son's birthday party. Remember this delicious concoction I did awhile ago? I thought the fresh wild blueberries would go perfectly with that light, fluffy and yet creamy filling.
These blueberry tarts were delicious. I whipped up the creamy filling the night before and prepared the blueberries and the tart shells the morning of the party. It took 2 pairs of hands to finish 24 tarts in only 5 min. This dessert works really well when you have limited space in the fridge because the only thing that needed to be kept cool was the filling. Furthermore, not chilling the tart shells after they have been baked kept the shells from turning soft.
What I love about wild blueberries is that they are sweet and flavourful, unlike those steroid blueberries you find at the grocery stores. I could have done this with the steroid blueberries but trust me, if you can get your hands on the wild stuff, do it. It's worth every penny.
I came across this blueberry tart with icewine glaze last week while planning the menu for the birthday party. The glaze looked easy enough to do and I was tempted. But I realized it would've been over-ambitious to do the glaze with everything else going on. Maybe next time I'll actually try the ricotta cheese filling and introduce another variation of cheese filling dessert into my repertoire. :)


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My mind is going in a lot of different directions today!
First, one of my good friends Whitney of Savannah Notions fame, had her sweet baby girl this morning - six weeks early! Emma Claire and mama are doing well - what a blessing. I can't wait to meet this little girl and love all over her! So congrats to Whitney and Kyle... they are going to be wonderful parents.
On a completely different note, Chad and I stopped by our house last night after work. Last week I was complaining because it didn't look like they had done anything all week. Well they made up for it this week! The shutters are on the house, all the trim work is completed (moldings, baseboards, door frames, window frames, etc.), the interior doors are in, our stairs are in (along with our balusters), the wooden beams are in the master bedroom, they completed the wooden shelving in the master closet and pantry), etc. It looks like a real house now (just not painted).
I didn't have time to take pictures last night, but I will this weekend and will post them on Monday! Next week they are doing all the tile work - so that's another big step. The weeks are just flying by, and we are beyond excited to move in!
I don't know about you guys, but I sure am excited for the weekend! I'm hoping to get some baby time in (with Emma Claire and my other love child, sweet baby Annabelle), Chad and I are volunteering with our church group at the Raleigh Rescue Mission, and then maybe measuring windows are the house for blinds --- and life doesn't get more exciting than that!
Hope you guys all have a great weekend!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Friday Friday Friday!
Posted by Caroline at Friday, February 19, 2010
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06/30/15 Clean is community!
Adren Washington cleans Seattle streets every night.
"They make a mess, we clean it up," he said.
But after Super Bowl Sunday, he predicted, Wednesday night would be different.
"I knew once they came home, there was going to be a big party," he said.
People who came to the biggest party in Seattle history - estimates range somewhere around 700,000 people - brought their Hawks pride and they brought their trash.
"The floats went. Police followed that. And we had a recycle truck, a garbage truck and 10 people running the route," said Kevin Kelly / CleanScapes Spokesperson.
The day clean-up crew alone picked up more than one ton of garbage and recyclables.
The crowds were so thick, the day shift had to call off their work for several hours. Now Washington begins the night shift.
"This is another part of the 12th Man," said Washington.
And the 12th Man's trash is telling. They drink a lot of coffee. They refuel with both expensive coconut water and McDonald's hamburgers. They love Skittles - and they love the Seahawks.
"We're just happy to be a part of this special day," said Kelly.
Read full story at King5.com


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Audio and communications firm Jabra recently previewed in the country the Evolve 75, a follow-up to the company's wireless series.
The Evolve 75 is specifically designed for the modern workplace, hence the unique combination of features like Active Noise Cancellation and a "do not disturb" light. It is also armed with high-definition voice for crystal clear phone calls and a feature that lets users connect the Bluetooth headset to PC and smartphone simultaneously.
"The premise behind the open plan office is to foster collaboration and improve communication among employees," said Wayne Lee, product management and alliances manager for APAC at Jabra. "The Jabra Evolve 75 provides businesses with an alternative solution to support an open office philosophy that's conductive to better performance."
With a wireless range of 100 feet for laptops and 33 feet for smartphones, the headset allows flexibility and freedom to move, enabling workers to multi-task without the noise and interruptions.
A discreet mic pole also makes the Evolve 75 compatible with Open Office and Outdoor requirements for Skype for Business, and can be tapped to Jabra Direct, a free cloud-based software that manages the headset.
Here's a rundown of Jabra Evolve 75 key features:
No word on pricing and availability yet.


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Last week the brothers of Beta Theta Pi came to the aid of their cook after a stranger attempted to assault her and she cried out for help. The assailant, Troy Watson, came to the Beta Theta Pi house claiming he was there to do work on the house, and then pulled the victim into a bathroom before she could confirm his story. The fraternity brothers rushed to the scene to hold Watson down until the police came.
The Beta Theta Pi brothers' behavior in coming to the aid of their cook is an excellent example of being active bystanders. The brothers' actions saved a woman from an attack and illustrated the collective responsibility we have towards one another to step in to prevent violence. If you're interested in learning more about how to be an active bystander and preventing sexual assault or relationship violence check out the following training dates for One Act:
Tuesday, February 8 (5-9 pm)
Thursday, February 17 (5-9 pm)
Wednesday, February 23 (5-9 pm)
Email Leah Josephson at firstname.lastname@example.com to sign up for One Act trainings or email@example.com to find out about becoming involved as a peer educator or committee member.
The brothers of Beta Theta Pi show us that we can all play a role in preventing sexual and physical assault and that we have the responsibility to one another to do so.


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more fun!!!
more ballet on benches (renae, me and sean) at rita's water ice.
so, my roommate just got a viola and is learning how to play. well, tonight we had a fire drill but we didn't think we had to go outside for it, so this thing is blaring like crazy and kristy is attempting to play the viola and all i could think about was the titanic. when the ship is sinking and the band is playing. it cracked me up.
me and meg at jose's going away party.
hahahahaaa..... this is me in my 'sporty wear' on top of a chair in the library with at least two drinks right in front of me, by the no eating and drinking sign (above renae's head). great times.
ha.... this was when renae and sean couldn't get their balance. and i was just having a good ol' time.... i don't actually know what i was doing though.
and this is me and sean.... and jose's hand coming from the side there.
we saw a movie ('21') after this... and it was boring. but we had fun before and after. yay for friends. yay for real, good friends and real, good times.
love you, guys!!!
<3 jess
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
more, more, more!!!
Posted by Jecca Andrew at 11:01 PM
2 comments:
- amandawhatshername said...
jessica, i am so jealous of your fun. don't ever graduate. it's not worth it. :)
- April 10, 2008 at 12:02 PM
- jess said...
awe, mandi. i don't think i have to worry about graduating any time soon... ha! i actually have to have a meeting with my advisor to discuss that very subject.
love you, mandi!
<3 jecca
- April 10, 2008 at 12:07 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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« All Events
An event every day that begins at 7:30pm, repeating until August 2, 2017
Great Family Fun This original melodrama, written by Paul Higbee, first appeared at The Matthews in 1976 and became a summer theater staple for locals and visitors alike throughout the 80s and 90s.
In a cooperative joint effort between The Matthews and the BHSU theater department, "The Phantom of The Matthews Opera House" is coming back to The Matthews' stage for the month of July 2015. It will be performed every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday night at 7:30, starting after July 4th weekend and running the rest of the month.
LEARN MORE about play
LEARN MORE about play


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We need for our two social-news site:
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- Jquery Features (most features we have it, you must optimized it only)
You will find a Screenshot attached. You can get also actuel css/html/js files.
I would like to see a small mockup, bevor I awarding.
15 freelancer đang chào giá trung bình $625 cho công việc này
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How to Use Foundation on Filipino Women?
If you've lived in the Philippines or have studied the country's culture to some extent, you may be familiar with the rampant colonial mentality that even the natives are aware of. It's no surprise...
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How to Wear Flattering Lip Makeup for Filipino Women?
While there are no hard and fast makeup rules written in stone, there are guidelines that help enhance your natural beauty instead of working against it. If you are of Filipino heritage, you may ha...
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What Is Good Makeup Foundation for Women Over 40?
Makeup can get tricky as you age. Mature skin, which is less supple than younger skin, takes foundation differently, so changing formulas as your skin ages is necessary. Find the right formula by i...
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How to Find the Right Foundation Shade for African American Women?
Finding the right foundation shade is sometimes a challenge for African American women. This article provides some steps for finding the foundation shade that compliments the many hues of African ...
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What is the difference between liquid foundation, mouse foundation and matte foundation?
Liquid foundation is just that: foundation in liquid form.Mousse foundation is just that: foundation in mousse form.And matte foundation is just that: foundation with a matte finish.The form is all...
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text: 14331 Heron Marsh DR, Cypress, TX 77429 By Jason Gracey May 20, 2013 Home for Sale Home for Sale 14331 Heron Marsh DR Cypress TX 77429 Home for Sale Cy-Fair ISD Home for Sale Cypress Point Home for Sale Cypress TX Home for Sale NW Houston Jason Gracey | RE/MAX VINTAGE | (281) 376-2755 14331 Heron Marsh Dr, Cypress, TX 3BR/2.5BA Single Family offered at $163,000 Year Built 1999 Sq Footage 2,643 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2.5 Floors 2 Parking 2 Garage – Attached Lot Size 5,924 sq ft description Super Clean and Move-in Ready home in the CY-Fair ISD. Just a 5-Min drive to HWY 290, walk to the neighborhood elementary. 2-Story Foyer shows off the Mission style stair rails. Warm wood laminate floors in Foyer, Living Room, Dining Room, and Den create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Zoned AC/CH for energy saving comfort. Curl up in front of the cozy gas-log fireplace in the Den on blustery evenings. The Island Kitchen has plenty of counter space with a tiled backsplash and pantry. Relax in the Master Suite spa tub at days end. Cozy secondary bedrooms with chair rails, custom paint and ceiling fans. Loft can become a 4th bedroom. Chill out under the ceiling fans on covered back patio in a favorite chair. Large back yard for activities with a nice mix of sun and shade. see additional photos below property features – Fireplace – Cable-ready – Ceiling fans – Fenced yard – Jetted tub – Lawn – Patio additional photos Inviting landscaped entrance 2-Story Foyer, Mission style stair rails Wood laminate floors in Formal Living Room Plenty of natural light in Living Room Gather around the table in Formal Dining Room Large Pantry in Island Kitchen Master Suite has ceiling fans Another view of Master Suite Double sinks in Master Bath Relax in Master Suite spa tub Cozy secondary bedroom with chair rail and ceiling fan Chair rail and custom paint Loft can become 4th Bedroom or a Game Room Wood laminate and cozy gas log fireplace in Den Chill out under ceiling fans View of back of home Mature trees give a nice mix of sun and shade in backyard Contact info: Jason Gracey RE/MAX VINTAGE (281) 376-2755 Posted: May 19, 2013 29.969112 -95.697169 Advertisements Share this:FacebookRedditPrintEmailTwitterLike this:Like Loading... Related


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For a couple of different reasons I came to think of this one particular episode where Monica and Phoebe have read a feminist book about how women let men steal their "wind".
Some classic lines in these two great scenes. (embedding has been disabled for these so you have to click the links to watch them on youtube)
And now I think I'm going to start working on those windkeeper skills a bit.


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While the time may be a little strange, you've practically got to look to previous Xperia Z1, the Xperia Z2 is a range topping cell phone in its unique right and it heralds the up coming technology for Sony.
It creates on its predecessors with an enhanced display screen, improved power under the cover and a slightly more lightweight chassis.There's no concern that the Xperia Z2 will be proceeding head to head with the Samsung Galaxy S5, HTC One M8 and Nokia Lumia 930 this season - and with that in head it's got its perform cut out.
Sony's had some problems having the Xperia Z2 into shops, lacking its original early April launch and thus offering an higher hand to the HTC and Samsung, even though products are trickling through.
It bears the complex price label you'd anticipate from a flagship device, with the SIM free Xperia Z2 establishing you back at minimum £545 (around $600, AU$900).
That places the Sony Xperia Z2 quite much on par with its primary competitors, so if you're seeking for a strategy to choose between them pricing isn't a point that'll guide you make up your mind.
You'd be challenging pressed to tell the Z1 and the Z2 separated, as they seem almost the same with the exact same steel and glass style offering a durable and premium, if not a small commercial, finish.
The slabs of glass on the front and rear of the Xperia Z2 may add a level of class to the handset, but they're also a magnet for fingerprints and dust.
I was continuously wiping the Sony Xperia Z2 to clear the streaks off the display screen, but within moments they developed up again. This got rather irritating after a while, and with precisely the same thing taking place round the back I sensed like I was battling a losing challenge.
On a beneficial note the Xperia Z2's body seems to be far more strong than that of the Z1 and Z1 Compact, which were identified to scratch and scuff amazingly easily creating the handsets appear bruised and battered.
Around the front Sony proceeds its pattern of sizable bezels above and below the screen, increasing the length of the Xperia Z2 creating it taller than its predecessor as well as the One M8 and Galaxy S5.
The steel and glass body doesn't provide a big amount of traction, and the smooth angular style means it's not the comfiest device to hold for expanded period of times.
Sony has been far more delicate with its placement likened to HTC, with small deviations in style at the top and bottom part of the Xperia Z2's body revealing slim speaker grills.
Switch the Xperia Z2 to landscape for a video marathon or video gaming time and you'll right away benefit from the new loudspeaker spot. The Xperia Z1 had its loudspeaker location on its base which was very easily protected when held in landscape.
The volume level rocker is located just below, once again in an easy to reach location, while in the direction of the base of the device you'll find the devoted shutter key which gives a shortcut to the digital camera app as well as a way to snap photos underwater.
There have previously been reviews of the Xperia Z2 declining to maintain the water out, but throughout my dunking time with the device I didn't experience any leakage. Just keep in mind to close those flaps tightly!
Anybody looking to update from the original Xperia Z though will be delighted to see an revealed headphone jack port up top, continuous the traditions from the Z1.
Round the rear the Xperia Z2 doesn't look that much various than the front, with the modest 20.7MP camera lens and individual LED flash the only spots on the glass protected surface.
The Sony Xperia Z2 doesn't do anything at all unrealistic in terms of design, and it's still another dark piece of glass - but it is a nicely built, high quality, practical and waterproof product which definitely trumps the style of the Galaxy S5.


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Kazakhstan climber Maxut Zhumayev has raised serious doubts as to whether Christian Stangl made the summit of K2. When Stangl returned to base camp at K2, there was much lively discussion amongst the other climbers about whether Christian Stangl did in fact make the summit. Ultimately though, Maxut said that none of the climbers there actually believed that he did make the summit of K2.
The following points were made by Maxut to explain his reasoning as to why he does not think Stangl made the summit of K2.
- Climbers at base camp were shocked to see how healthy Stangl seemed after coming back from the summit. He seemed energetic and not feeling the effects of the climb. He seemed to want to get back to Skardu as quick as possible
- The weather was not as good as Stangl said on summit day. Maxut said that it was a cloudy day, not a clear day as Stangl reported. The picture that Stangl showed of him on the summit was of a fairly clear day with only some cloud.
- Climbing was difficult on any route. There were avalanches and some of the rope had been torn to shreds others have reported.
- Some of Stangl's bivouac gear was left under rocks a little away from the Abruzzi Spur. This included tent with poles, rusty ice pick, 370 page book, and food remains. Maxut asks as to why was it hidden under rocks?
- George Dijmarescu was at advance camp on the day and night that Christian Stangl was supposedly coming down K2. Every once in a while through the night he went outside his tent to see what the conditions were like. At no point did he see a headlamp of a climber coming down the Abruzzi Spur.
- All of the advanced camps 1, 2 and 3 on the Abruzzi Spur had no evidence that anyone had been there and used them at all. George Dijmarescu went up there and saw no evidence at all else to suggest that anyone had actually been there or come through there. The tents were exactly as they had been before and looked like they had not been used by anyone in recent days.
- George Dijmarescu was not even aware that Stangl had made the summit and returned to base camp till he came back down to base camp himself. He had seen no evidence that anyone had been on the mountain at the same time as him, or in the very recent period that Stangl was climbing. This is despite the likelihood that Stangl took the same route there and back.
- And lastly, Maxut said that none of the climbers at base camp believed that Stangl made the summit of K2. The story from Stangl just didn't add up in their estimation.
Certainly this raises further discussion on what Stangl said and the counter claim by Maxut on these points.
As for Stangl looking remarkably healthy after coming back down K2, it could be said that he trains extremely hard and this training enables him to climb faster and with more strength than what would be thought possible. But would he look as energetic after coming down K2. He told the press he was exhausted. This is not the picture that Maxut paints of him when he came down.
Stangl did say that he took a slightly different route because the ropes were too slippery on the descent. He said he used his GPS to keep him on a route to make it back down. Is it possible that he went so far away from the normal route down the Abruzzi Spur that George Dijmarescu failed to spot his headlamp? Surely he had a headlamp to go down in darkness. He said that he climbed till about 12 midnight that night and then fell asleep for an unknown time under a rocky alcove. This means that he climbed far down the mountain for between 4 to 5 hours with a headlamp on. Is it possible cloud cover could have concealed Stangl from the view of Dijmarescu?
As for why Stangl's bivouac gear was hidden under rocks not far from the Abruzzi Spur really opens up speculation. The impression is that he did not take a bivouac tent up with him. He did say on the way back he slept under a rocky alcove. This would indicate that no tent was taken up. So why was it hidden under rocks? And when did Maxut discover all of the bivouac gear? He was in no doubt though it was Stangl's gear. Stangl has said that he had no tent with him when he made the summit.
The conditions of the day vary markedly between Maxut and Stangl's account. Stangl said visibility was reduced at times, but his summit picture is of a fairly clear day. Maxut is implying this was not the case and it was not sunny like in the picture. Of course these stories can vary because of the conditions at base camp and 3000m above could be totally different with lower cloud cover than the summit. But what if Maxut is right?
Stangl never said that he used any of the camps on the way up or down. He in fact said he only slept once in a rocky alcove and didn't use the camps. But there was no evidence that he went anywhere near any of the camps, according to Maxut. Stangl claimed that his GPS allowed him to take a slightly different route. How far was Stangl's route away from the camps or did the new snow conceal his movements?
As for the summit photo there already has been analysis of it on this site. It appears to show the summit and the surrounding mountains. Chogolisa can be seen in the background and the glaciers below K2. This seems broadly to be in line as one would expect for a summit picture from K2. But there were at least 2 areas of concern about the photo.
A reader made a Google Earth screen shot of what it would look like from the summit of K2 looking towards Chogolisa here.
In the initial analysis of the summit photo it was noted that there was a line down the left hand side of the photo that could be not explained. Photos normally do not have a line down the side, so it needed an unusual explanation. A possible explanation given by this site was that the hardware failed slightly, maybe the electronic shutter and produced a line to the left. Or maybe the software failed slightly when converting it to a jpeg. Normally one would never expect this to happen, but if the photo is authentic then an explanation like that would have to explain the line that is several pixels wide.
A more sinister explanation for the line on the left of the photo is that it has been digitally altered in Photoshop 7.0 and it has been a sloppy effort to concealing what has occurred. In that view point, the picture was created in layers. Several pictures could have been put together to create the one on the summit. Thus the picture would be faked to make it look like he was on the summit. The details on the left of the picture would have been added in a layer to make it look like the mountains were in the background to Stangl.
If it has been manipulated then the 'smoking gun' of the photo would be the lines on the left hand side. Sometimes when people use Photoshop it's the little details that they overlook when correcting the photos. And sometimes those trails are left on the photo that has been processed. Thus if it turns out Stangl did not make the summit those lines could be a 'smoking gun' and shows sloppiness when the photo was put together.
Also the EXIF information from the photo was missing. This is the information that shows the date taken, shutter speed, aperture and lots of other camera information. The only useful information in the EXIF is the date which showed when it was digitally created in Photoshop 7.0 which was the 13th of August.
A key to knowing whether Stangl made the summit or not of K2 will be hearing from George Dijmarescu on the K2 2101 expedition. He has been writing for Everestnews. The last report that he sent said that," When you will hear the entire story, you will laugh." It was not easy to see what he was referring to but it certainly occurred that he might be talking about the Stangl summit of K2 …. We will see whenever he updates what he was talking about there. It will be interesting to see whether he verifies all that has been written by Maxut.
Since a climber at K2 has raised serious doubts that Stangl made the summit, and claims all of the other climbers do not think he made the summit, then it will open discussion on what really happened. The problem with going alone to the summit is that he must provide all of the evidence. But GPS readings that he claims to have taken and further photos that have not been saved in Photoshop with the EXIF information would help the case that he in fact made the summit. There may be a case for not giving the summit to Stangl until better evidence is produced.
Source: Kazpatriot (in Russian)
Source: Everestnews 2010 K2 expedition
Picture of Christian Stangl's bivouac equipment that had been hidden under rocks (Source: Kazpatriot)


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Too many managers unintentionally kill innovation by relying heavily on carrots and sticks to motivate employees. When it comes to creativity, there's good pressure and there's bad. For example, avoid applying extreme time constraints. Competitive pressure with coworkers can also be a killer. Instead, use positive pressure in the form of a challenging assignment that's tough but that the team has the skills to solve. If you give people an important problem that no one else has been able to crack, it can supercharge motivation and creativity.
Adapted from "What Doesn't Motivate Creativity Can Kill It" by Teresa Amabile and Steve Kramer.
To post to this group, send email to firstname.lastname@example.com


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- Published: 19 June 2017 19 June 2017
Winter days are usually less windy, but a new analysis shows turbines work harder on the coldest days, when power demand is highest. A new study shows that on the very coldest days turbines often produce more power than the average winter day.
The team, which involved scientists from the Met Office Hadley Centre, Imperial College London and the University of Reading, found that during high demand (cold) days, capacity from turbines decreased by an average of a third. However, during the highest five percent of energy demand days, one third had above-average wind power, due to more of these days having strong easterly winds. The research suggests that a spread of turbines around Great Britain would make the most of the varied wind patterns associated with the coldest days – maximising power supply during high demand conditions. Results also suggest that during high demand periods offshore wind power provides a more secure supply compared to onshore, as offshore wind is sustained at higher levels.


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Tips For Carpet Cleaning
Some carpets are rather pricey. The prices vary according to the type of carpet textile. As a result, if an individual desires to maintain the carpet for a very long time, it is very considerable to take appropriate treatment of it. To completely clean the carpetings, it is a should to seek the solutions of expert carpeting cleaners on a routine basis. Besides having the carpet expertly cleansed, owners need to additionally deal with a couple of activity to maintain the carpet tidy each day. Dirty carpets could absolutely be the source of wellness related troubles of member of the family.
The effect of not keeping the carpets wonderful and also tidy is that the carpets life will certainly lower. This is generally as a result of the wear, carpet cleaning boise id and tear of dust elements on the carpets fibers. This can merely ultimately cause setting you back property owners far more in the long term since carpetings should be replaced a lot more regularly. This write-up supplies a few wonderful suggestions on maintaining the carpetings properly cleaned.
The first thing you need to do is to vacuum the carpet often. Cleaning up the carpet using a vacuum ought to be done when a week. Regular vacuuming extends the lifespan of the carpeting by avoiding the accumulation of dirt particles. Little carpets require low upkeep. On the various other hand, larger carpetings require more care. The frequency of vacuuming the carpeting even relies upon the size and type of it. Property owners need to typically think of a vacuum schedule to act as a tip.
Home owners have to be very cautious in treating carpeting stains. Prior to an individual attempts to clean up the tarnish, it is a good idea to very first consult with specialist carpet cleaning experts. Asking a specialist is a clever decision in order to avoid more harm to the carpeting. No one needs to make use of hefty cleansing products on carpets given that these products may have harsh chemicals which can cause more harm. Do never make use of high heat to eliminate a tarnish for the reason that making use of heat improperly could set the discolor permanently by coloring the materials of the carpet. Rubbing a stain could commonly create the spill to be taken in deeper right into the carpet. Quickly, merely after any sort of spill the most effective activity to do is simply carefully blot the area with a tidy towel. You may additionally utilize warm water in addition to a wet towel to look after new spills. Better act promptly. The more rapid you could reach the problem spot, the minimal it will come to be a longer term problem.
Many of us have an improper viewpoint that carpeting ventilating powders are helpful to carpetings. It really can do much more troubles compared to good. These type of powders also contain hazardous chemicals that are hazardous to health and wellness when breathed in. Additionally, deodorising powders are not water soluble. Right after the carpeting is expertly cleansed, the powders are visiting be apparent once the carpet has actually dried out. This could only make the carpet show up dirty and may also cause white stains. The wonderful point to do is to request for the aid of professional carpet cleaning business to get rid of bad odor along with unsightly discolorations.
It is a normal thing that people choose more affordable valued products rather than the highly-priced ones. However, virtually all of the cost-effective carpetings on the market source carpet fibers to break down much more effortlessly. Wear and tear will additionally occur regularly. It is better to spend for a high quality carpeting given that by doing so it will merely assist in saving your bucks in the long-term. Superior quality carpet suggests a lot longer carpeting life-span.
It must additionally be a routine to continuously place a doormat by the doorway as well as to have slippers for visitors. Home sandals are an excellent way to maintain footwears and filth far from carpets.
For carpeting cleansing issues, the ideal alternative is to ask for the guidance of professional carpet cleaners. Their several years of knowledge in cleaning up the carpetings make them the top authority in taking care of discolorations, smells, damages, as well as the like. These people absolutely have actually developed reliable methods for carpet cleansing.
3 Usual Carpet Cleaning Questions
When it comes to doing points around the home, carpeting cleansing has to do with the last point any of us genuinely delight in doing. But the reality is, maintaining your carpetings looking clean as well as fresh is one of the very best points you could do for your house. That said, below are 3 of the more common concerns that individuals ask relating to carpeting cleaning.
1. Just how Often Should My Carpets Be Cleansed?
This is a concern almost everybody has at some point and also time. Is there a set routine regarding when you should clean your carpeting? There is nothing etched in rock so to speak, the professionals do say that utilizing a cleansing machine or having them properly washed when a year is pretty much standard.
I would concur with that, but it might not hold true in all instances. If you have a family members like we do with youngsters coming in as well as out all the time, and so on, after that when a year isn't really going to cut it. You would certainly require to bump it as much as two times a year. It really relies on the traffic your floors obtain.
One other quick note to state right here is that although you feel your carpets are not filthy due to the fact that you can not see it, doesn't imply it is real. Pollens, pet hair as well as dander, allergen and also various other dust could swiftly go right down right into the fibers without you seeing it. Therefore alone it is a great idea to cleanse them when a year.
2. Which Is A lot better ... Leasing Or Acquiring A Carpet Cleansing Machine?
This is a wonderful inquiry. There are obviously benefits and drawbacks with either option. Leasing is more affordable than buying, as well as it could be a wonderful choice for a one-off cleaning. Like if you are relocating out of your rental as well as should clean the carpets, or a few other circumstance where you just have to use the rental a couple of times at most.
Acquiring a device is the better long-term option for the majority of everyone. Forking over $25-$35 for a leasing, plus the prices for detergents, can conveniently get expensive after a year or 2. You can purchase an equipment that does just as great of a job for the cost you'll pay over that duration of time.
The other big advantage is that you can utilize anytime you should. When you rent you will certainly need to use it appropriate then and there, which could be rather an inconvenience at times. It is for these factors, as well as several others, that I would usually advise purchasing to be the very best path to go.
Exactly how Do I Discover A Specialist Carpet Cleansing Company?
This might look like a rather evident concern to answer, yet discovering the finest carpet washing company could be a little bit greater than just opening the telephone directory and also employing the first one that shows up on the page.
The fact is, you should put in the time to obtain a minimum of 3-5 quotes from different business. Rates as well as solutions offered will vary, as well as it might save you a couple of hundred dollars. The very best method is to have the company come out and also offer you an in home price quote. It's totally free, or a minimum of it should be, and it gets you the chance to ask questions and also know exactly what to anticipate from the firm if you recruit them. You avoid misunderstandings about who is visiting relocate the furnishings out of the way, or whether a certain discolor in your carpeting will certainly come up when they wash it, and so on.


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'Weder weder lang'
>> Sunday, April 9, 2017
March Fianza
"What goes around, comes around." We saw how things happened in the past – the minority in congress filing cases against the administration and the latter filing impeachment cases against those they believed brought hardship to the Filipino people. Now, it's the shoe on the other foot. Others call it "karma".
More than a month since her arrest and detention at the PNP custodial center, Sen. Leila De Lima apparently has accepted the fact that she is now in jail due to her past actions that she claimed were "official."
The previous position of the number one critic of President Duterte as Commission on Human Rights chair during President GMA, later becoming secretary of justice under PNoy apparently led her to a vulnerable situation today.
Although to her friends, De Lima's detention now is simply political harassment because she continues to maintain President Duterte's alleged involvement in the Davao Death Squad in 2009. This has not been proven.
It has been reported in the news that De Lima claimed she has been getting personal attacks from the President even while she was arrested for alleged involvement in three illegal drug cases.
She was arrested along with her former aide who was charged for soliciting millions of pesos and motor vehicles from convicted millionaire drug lord Peter Co to finance her candidacy in 2016.
But for the opposite camp not necessarily aligned with President Duterte, they welcome the detention of De Lima. One man's misery is another man's happiness.
Today, we find De Lima detained a few feet away from the cells of Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Bong Revilla whom she successfully sent to jail when she was DOJ secretary. As for Sen. Enrile, he was allowed to post bail for humanitarian reasons.
The former secretary who was overall head of the DOJ denied charges that she received money from drug lords, instead she claimed that President Duterte was abusing his power over her.
On the other hand, critics say that the former DOJ secretary should now get a dose of her own medicine – and feel what it is like to be persecuted. De Lima sent President GMA to a hospital jail to the extent of disobeying a restraining order by the Supreme Court from arresting her at the airport.
In one news report the senator complained of "very foul" treatment from President Duterte that pressed former first gentleman Mike Arroyo to comment on Facebook that De Lima's act of not allowing GMA to leave the airport for treatment abroad was a violation of her human rights. Willfully disobeying the SC TRO was "very foul" too, Mike Arroyo wrote.
Even former chief justice Renato Corona was not spared from the actions of De Lima who was part of the executive machinery headed by PNoy who was then immune from suit.
Forgetting the past, blind supporters sympathize with the senator. They feel bad for her but overlooked her spiteful attacks against GMA, the senators, and the chief justice. Even Sen. Ping Lacson could have landed in jail if he did not elude arrest. But life is "weder weder lang."


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LINNAEUS! I should've known...
wind is whipping outside right now, mixing with the rain and producing a nasty little concoction of danger!. Not safe for driving. if it was a little more forgiving, we could've gone to Chili's. maybe i might have gotten that... what did I get again? beside the point. it would've at least broken up this monotony (did she go out? yeah she went off the deck). i haven't left the house in two days, and i was planning on breaking that up, but still i'm here, passing more hours idly in front of a computer. staring... song's in the works. still need to get going on those lyrics though. also need to finish up you look like a freemason by the end of vacation. should also get on that chemistry homework you've somehow managed to put off. buffers. who needs 'em, right? determine the pH from the molarity, 5% rule... or whatever. it's been so long that you don't even know what the problems are like. (ha, ma. grammy said that american idol's on tonight, they're eliminating 4 people...) you also said you'd study for your APs, you dirty slacker. find the definite integral, the kitchen cabinet, thermodynamic properties, calligative properties, kris allen. generic mainstream pap raging on my television screen. rage, rage against the dying of the light. the dying of mainstream music.
was that... dylan thomas? or some other irish poet. DO NOT GO GENTLE INTO THAT GOOD NIGHT. huck finn. american literature. should i finish learning about the adventures of huckleberry finn or should i just sparknote the shit out of it? i know that nothing much happens. Huck probably saves Jim, Jim probably finds freedom. The duke and the dauphin. Looy the sixteenth. Shet de do'.
*cough! cough! cough!* take some decongestant, as much as the last dose didn't work. (yeah. i think it was the right choice. well obviously other people did too.) i never make eye contact with her when i try talking to her. (SEE L.A!. i really want to... *muffled voices*) i should really work on that, it's my mother for fuck's sake. you don't pay attention to your own mother when she's talking to you? avert your gaze. make eye contact. talk. communicate. it's what you were born to do. you're only gonna be in this house for so much longer, get your head out of the clouds and make conversation. not just with your mom who's been desperately trying to talk to you, who's lonely at the moment because she's not on the phone and we're the only two people in the house, who's not watching american idol like she usually does. she just wants to talk. look up now. stop typing. now.


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Ride On digest
The week's top bike news from around the world, brought to you every Friday.
Local news
Buses return to Swanston Street
Melbourne riders have been angered to find tourist buses illegally parking on Swanston Street. The buses were originally banned from the key bike route, which is used by almost 5,000 riders a day, after a rider fell into the path of a bus and died in 2008.
Adelaide parking fees on the rise
The South Australian government has proposed a new parking tax that could see the cost of parking in the CBD rise as much as $6 a day. The Government claims they hope the fee hike would encourage more people to ride, walk or take public transport to the city centre.
Victorian State budget for bikes
New Victorian Premier Denis Napthine and new Treasurer Michael O'Brien will be having a tough time getting this year's State Budget ready so soon after taking the reins, so to help them out, Bicycle Network has completed the bike budget for them. Check out the details.
Veteran victim of bike theft
ACT World War II veteran Les Cook wants to know if you've seen his bike. The white Giant mountain bike with a list of modifications "as long as your arm," which the 90-year-old uses as his primary mode of transport, was taken from outside a friend's house in Curtin. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Woden Police Station on (02) 6256 7777.
International news
Scotland considers new road law
Already in place in most European countries, the "strict liability" road law deems the least vulnerable road user responsible for an accident unless they can prove otherwise.
Olympic legend hangs up his cleats
After winning six Olympic gold medals and 11 world titles, Britain's most celebrated Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy has announced his retirement, explaining: "I've got every last inch of energy and effort out of me".
Chicago turns green
The Windy City plans to revamp its industrialised image by creating 800 new parks, recreation areas and green spaces, which will include many recreational bike trails, over the next five years.
Younger adults less healthy than their parents
A new study from the Netherlands involving over 6,000 participants has found that younger adults today are less healthy than their parents were at their age, with younger generations reporting higher rates of obesity and high blood pressure as well as a greater risk of diabetes in men.
Piano on a bike
We'd love to take this San Francisco resident's job!
The City Exposed: Piano Bike from San Francisco Chronicle on Vimeo.
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.


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At the start of each week, we publish the problems that will feature in this Saturday's Dear Jeremy advice column in the Guardian Work supplement, so readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy's own insights.
Here are this week's dilemmas – what are your thoughts?
Problem one: I am offered early retirement settlement, but the pension is not high so I'll have to find extra work. Should I take the offer?
I have been offered an early retirement settlement from my work place as I will be 55 this year. However, as I work part-time, the work pension isn't that high and I would need to find additional work to supplement, which isn't easy at this time. It is unlikely this offer will be given in the future, so it is a "one off". As my birthday falls just outside of 31 March, it appears I wouldn't be able to request my pension at the age of 60 and would not be able to take it until I was 66 years of age [because of the government's plans to speed up equalisation in the state pension age for men and women]. It is very tempting to have a guaranteed set amount of money for the rest of my life but if I can't find additional work, finances will be difficult (though not impossible). I would be grateful for any advice on my situation.
Problem two: I am a retired teacher, looking for paid or voluntary work. What are my chances?
I'm 61 and retired just over a year ago after teaching for 25 years in inner London, the last 12 years as a head of department. After going on a couple of trips which I'd promised myself, I started to look for part-time work, possibly working for a charity or in the public sector. I have applied for four jobs so far and not been shortlisted.
I have good people skills, am good at admin, report writing, training and am very well organised. I am still very active and quite dynamic and would like to carry on working, though not in the classroom. I have been told that "the trouble with teachers is they are generalists not specialists".
I have been doing a few hours voluntary work occasionally but I need something to get my teeth into as I feel under-stimulated and quite bored. I would prefer some kind of paid work, if possible, as I still have a mortgage to pay off but I would consider voluntary work that might lead to paid work.
What are your thoughts?
• For Jeremy's and readers' advice on a work issue, send a brief email to firstname.lastname@example.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or reply personally


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I know many people who are excited about the 2nd-gen iPhone and its possible use of 3-G internet. I also know some who are worried about the battery consumption of the 3-G.
New evidence has been acquired that Apple will put a 3-G switch in the network preferences. Users would have the option to enable/disable 3-G and Edge.


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Ford Finishes Strong on Last Mission From CNO
By: Cmdr. Joseph Shuler, Commanding Officer of USS Ford (FFG 54)
Greetings from the Pacific Northwest!
I have the pleasure of being the 17th and final commanding officer onboard USS Ford. Throughout my time on the ship we've had many accomplishments and participated in a plethora of high-level exercises and deployments.
I've been extremely impressed with the Ford's ability to carry out the Chief of Naval Operations' (CNO) three tenets of warfighting first, operating forward and being ready during all facets of the ship's life—whether underway or inport.
Over the past 28 years, Ford has proven to be a mighty warship ready to face many challenges. As the 48th ship of the Oliver Hazard Perry class of guided-missile frigates, Ford's primary missions have included in-depth anti-air, anti-surface and anti-subsurface protection of military and merchant shipping for continuous use of sea lanes of communication for the U.S. and her allies.
Throughout the years, Ford crews have been able to sustain a level of excellence that's helped the ship show a global presence over 12 deployments to various operating areas such as the Persian Gulf, Southeast Asia and South America. Ford was one of four frigates to earn the combat action ribbon during the Gulf War and was the only non-Aegis ship performing carrier escort duties.
As CNO Greenert has expressed, "Our forward presence will build on and strengthen our partnerships and alliances where sea lanes, resources and vital U.S. interests intersect."
Whether participating in drug interdiction operations in U.S. Fourth Fleet (South American operating area), or foreign relations or anti-piracy operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet (Southeast Asia); Ford and the Perry-class Frigates have proven time and time again to be a key component in Navy's forward operating abilities.
I'm happy for our ship to be ending on a high note while participating in a special exercise tasked by the CNO. Upon our return from this final operation, my crew will make the necessary preparations for decommissioning, while also working on growing as Sailors in order to be prepared for their next fleet assignments.
The frigates have provided a great deal to the Navy and for that I am sad to see them go. Although our ship will be decommissioned in October, the spirit of the Ford will live on in all the Sailors who served on her.
3 CommentsLeave a Comment
Troll / Jul 27 2013 2:24 pm
Definatly glad my first command was the ford in the last seven short months ive had the time of my life going through a mess of new life experiences no ship after this will feel gove me that feeling of a family like the ford has
Tom Heidel / Jul 27 2013 8:23 pm
I am honored to be part of the history of the USS Ford as a plank owner. I also feel honored to have served with my shipmates and proud of those that followed us on the USS Ford. We all made a difference and are tied by a common bond that can never be diminished or taken away. I thank all of you.
FC1 Tom Heidel


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|Bloating & HIV
Jul 26, 2012
Bloatng and signifcant weight gain. I am male, age 47, 5'-11", 175lbs now up to 200lbs, bloating, distended abdomen, HIV Positive 1998, now on Complera, 12 years undetectible, 400-600 CD4, NEVER Aids. Test done: bloodwork OK, stool samples OK, NO h-pyloria, abdomen ultrasound (1 small gallstone in gallbladder), X-ray NO blockage, Pancreas blood OK, scheduled in Nucear Medician in AM for Gastric Emptying Test, scheduled Tuesday, Aug 31 with HIV practitioner. Weeks of testing. Frustrated. Bloated. All extra 25 lbs seems to be abdomen. Look like I'm a pregnant woman, or carrying a bowling ball under my shirt. Help.
Response from Dr. Henry
Might be worth getting an adbominal CT scan to assess amount and location of intraabdominal fat and to look for other pathology. Time with HIV, low CD4 counts, genetics, HIV medications, and life style can all contribute to increaed abdominal fat problems. Complera is perceived to be relatively fat friendly for most persons though moderate to long term data is completely lacking since rilpivirine is only recently available. Cant tell from your note whether addominal distention has been long standing and progressive and what your past HIV treatement history has been (some of older HIV drug more linked to abdominal fat gain). Hormone and nutrition/exericse/lifestyle assessment also recommended. KH
TRUVADA: Bloating/Belly Fat/Fatigue
I am diagnosed with an ear and respiratory infection and have hiv.
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Joey (Yes, the same Joey from Friends) runs through the double doors of the Sainsbury's in Hayes where Daniel works.
"What is this beer??" He shouts, looking at the stacks of boxes with a reduced sign hanging on top of it. He picks up the sign and chucks it to the floor before walking off on a rant. Excuse me, I hear a authorative man talk to Joey.
"Aw crap," I think before turning to see who was reprimanding him. A man leans over the customer service counter, arm outstretched to try and grab the attention of Joey who turns the corner. The man's arm drops. I recognise him instantly, even though he is facing awa from me. The way his hair was set in a messy disarray, leading down to a thin tail at the nape of his neck. He turns towards to me, his face disgruntled. My heart misses a beat, and theres a slight pang in my stomach. Longing and anger coarses through me at the same time racing eachother. My desire to go to him wins. I take a step towards to him. His gae is towards the floor, shaking his head, eyebrows pulled together. Suddenly, someone grabs my arms.
"Where's Joey??" Sarah's eyes widen, searching. "C'mon," she pulls me in the opposite direction, away from Daniel, snatching a last glance of him. Who knows when I would see him again.
We're leaving Sainsburys, the guys that Sarah came with need to be somewhere, and are heading to the car as soon as Joey returns. I know I only have a few moments left, so I quickly glance at the counter hoping that he's still there. I'm used to being let down, and I'm not surprised that he's not there. I take a deep breath, trying to collect myself before anyoe noticed my momentary dejection. Someone must have decided that we were waiting for Joey at the car, because he hadn't come back, but everyone was walking out of the store now towards the car park. One last glance -
And there he was. sitting down at the back of the desk. His head was bent over something. He must have been writing something out, and the cashier at the till had blocked my view of him earlier. "I'll be right back" I say to Sarah, walking towards him. I walk to the desk, and he gets up, inspecting the piece of paper. Satsified he sets in front of someone, and he looks up directly at me. I can't read the expression on his face. He walks along the customer service desk, settling down on a chair on the side out of the way of the customers, with a lower table. I sit on it.
"Hey :), it's been a while"
I can't remember the conversation that we had. But I remember the unspoken so clearly. A person gets in his little corner he settled in, so he gets up and leans on the counter, and I position myself closer to him, sliding along the counter. Suddenly I realise our faces are much closer to eachother, his eyes are searching mine and mine his. We both know that this is either the last or first time we see eachother. I want to kiss him so badly, and my gaze moves to the curves of his lips. The way it dips in the middle. I see him lean forward, and I look away from his lips to his whole face. There's resolution on his face. I can't believe that he wants the same thing as I do, but he kisses me. Soft and first, but for me it's not enough. We have such little time. His hands fingers trace along my arm, and over my shoulder, tingles following his touch. He hand settles on the nape of my neck. My stomach does somersalts over and over. I do't know how it got there, but my hands areo n the side of his face. It's more urgent now, more passionate. I remember his scent being all around me. We finally break away, eventhough my desire for him has not even satisfied, if anything its been heightened. I inhale breathing that scent all around me, trying to hoard every little thing, every little memory for later. It's his eyes I look to, wanting to remember them to most.
I wake up - and I realise I haven't wanted anyone that much for so long now. I had almost forgotten what that was like. And What it felt like to be wanted just as much.


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Gaels suffer second straight defeat; RMC thumped in Ottawa
By CLAUDE SCILLEY
For all but 72 seconds Saturday night, the Queen's Golden Gaels were more than a match for the McGill Redmen.
Unfortunately for the Gaels, what happened in those 72 seconds cost them the hockey game.
A three-goal outburst in the early moments of the second period propelled the Redmen to a 4-3 Ontario University Athletics hockey victory over the Gaels at the Memorial Centre.
It was the second loss in as many nights for the No. 7-ranked Gaels, who entered the weekend without a regulation-time defeat in their first 17 games. With the win, McGill, the sixth-ranked team in Canada, climbed into a first-place tie with Queen's in the OUA's East division.
The Gaels had just killed a two-man disadvantage and they were still a man short when McGill's David Rose scored the first goal of the game at 1:07 of the second period. Fifty seconds after that Carl Gelinas scored on a breakaway and the Gaels were in the midst of a collective meltdown. They left Max LeSieur alone at the side of the net and allowed him to get the puck for an easy goal just 22 seconds after that.
"If you let the referee and the emotions get to and (you fail to keep) your head in it for a minute, that team can capitalize and we let that happen," Gibson said.
The Gaels were enamored of neither of the penalties that left the Gaels two men short late in the first period. The subsequent lapses that led to the breakaway and the open man by the side of the net were disturbingly uncharacteristic of the way Queen's has played this year.
Gibson called time out at that point.
"I was just as bad," the coach said. "You can't let a referee get under your skin. I should have done a better job of calming the guys down on the bench in the first three minutes of the second (period). I maybe should have called a timeout after the second goal but I let it go one more and it might have cost us."
While he gathered his players he implored them to remember that 37 minutes remained to be played in the hockey game.
"I told them let's keep our mouths shut and let's go to work," he said.
Get to work the Gaels did. Tyler Moore scored on a rebound just over two minutes later and Jordan Coccimiglio beat McGill goalkeeper Jacob Gervais-Chouinard with a shot off a two-on-one break before the period was 11 minutes old.
McGill answered, however, with its second power-play goal of the night, by Samuel Carrier, just 61 seconds after Coccimiglio's goal.
Down 4-2 going into the third period, the Gaels killed two more penalties before Braeden Corbeth scored his third goal of the year on a slap shot from the top of the right faceoff circle to cut the Queen's deficit to one. A splendid play by Chris Van Laren set it up, as rather than dump the puck into the McGill zone for a line change, Van Laren carred it into the corner, held it until the fresh line got into the Redmen zone, and then passed to the onrushing Corbeth.
A little less than nine minutes remained to be played but the Gaels couldn't get the equalizer, despite pulling goaltender Kevin Bailie for an extra skater during the final minute of play.
"I'm proud of the guys," Gibson said. "I liked the way we played in the third period. We were a shot away.
"We let it get away for three minutes but other than that I thought we were pretty good tonight."
It was a decidedly better effort, Gibson said, than the one put forth by his team in a 4-1 loss to No. 9-ranked Carleton Friday night, the Gaels' first regulation-time defeat this year.
"Last night I did not like us at all," he said. "Tonight we competed. We were in awe last night. We weren't moving our feet. We just sat back and we allowed Carleton to skate through us. We're a fast team when we want to be and I think we proved that tonight.
"I liked us a lot better tonight. (Playing two nationally ranked teams) is a good benchmark and after this weekend I think we're right there."
The Gaels resume play with two games in Montreal next weekend, Friday night at McGill and Saturday afternoon at Concordia.
• • •
Perhaps basking in the glow of their first victory of the season Friday night, the Royal Military College Paladins gave up four goals in the first 15 minutes of their game in Ottawa on their way to being beaten 7-1 by the Carleton Ravens.
RMC got its only goal from Aidan Orbinski in the game's 51st minute.
Carleton got two goals apiece from Joey West and Michael McNamee. Jason Seed had three assists for the Ravens, 13-5-1 and winners of seven of their last eight games.
Carleton outshot the visitors 51-17.
On Thursday RMC travels to Oshawa to play Ontario Tech.


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I am the angel of romantic love. I assist those who are hungering for a romantic partnership or romance and passion in their lives. I also assist in rekindling romance in existing relationships.
When you open the door to your heart, romance will come to you. Fill your being with love, excitement and playfulness as this will lift your vibration to attract romance and love into your life. Express yourself romantically towards your partner and be candid about your feelings and intentions. Don't hold back for I am with you to help you release your feelings, intentions and emotions. When you become openly loving to your partner the flow of romance will return to you.
I will always give you guidance for romance when you call on me. My guidance may seem unrelated to romance as I may encourage you to join a gym, enrol in other activities where you will meet others or even guide you to contact or speak to someone. Please follow my lead. I will create a strong warm feeling in your heart as though I am giving you a hug of affection. This is my trademark. The more you follow my guidance the quicker romance will come to you.
Love, love, love to everyone!


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|Not sure what this little pose was all about - but I'm glad I snapped it!
|Hannah and Rosalie have been friends since we moved in over 3 years ago.
|All 3 of the girls together! I'm so thankful for sweet friends and neighbors!
|The girls were so sweet pouring their "tea" and spreading frosting on their cookies. They were also super careful with the very fancy tea set! We will definitely have to do this again soon!


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Saturday 30th March 2013 - Road Trip Cheshire England to Torrevieja Rojales Spain. We left Cheshire to arrive at Folkestone to board the train bound for France. We have used the channel tunnel many times before and still find it amazing that we can drive onto a train in the UK and approximately 35minutes later drive off in France !
Crossing the Midi Pyrynees you can be as high as 3700 ft. above sea level. It was quite late in the evening when we reached the highest point and so we were unable to take advantage of the beautiful scenery this area has to share. It was dark cold and snowing as we drove through the clouds.
Sunday 31st March 2013 - after a good rest and some strong black coffee with chocolate croissants we were back on the road. First stop was to fuel up the car and walk the dog. Service station car parks often give up good views of small birds that, quite rightly, associate these places with free food. We recorded 5 Black Redstart & 15White Wagtail. The ever present "Pyrenean Car Park" Sparrows were plentiful along with a few Chaffinch.
Travelling along the E15 Autopista Del Mediterra magpies were abundant (many in pairs) and we were lucky enough to see 5 Black Kite - 3 individual birds and one pair displaying.
The temperature is rising and it is now 15 degrees - time for the Oakleys to get an airing ! The weather has been so cold in the UK during March that we were beginning to think we would never feel the sun again ! Although behind the glass in the car it seems warm, there is still quite a strong wind.
HAPPY EASTER to everyone reading our blog and hope you all remembered to SPRING your clocks forward. Spring what a lovely word -simply saying it lifts your mood and conjures up images of nesting birds and early chicks, wild flowers popping up from nowhere and the odd pint or two in your favourite beer garden !
Our first butterfly of the trip floated across the front of our car - a small white - at the Viaduc des Pox toll booth and the temperature is still rising.
ESPANA - 10.58am So far so good, no hold ups or incidents encountered and it is just over 24 hrs since we left home (24 hrs and 7 minutes to be exact)
Blue skies, jumper off, window down and shades on - 4 weeks of this to look forward to -can life get any better !!
Between the Spanish border and Tarragona the temperature has risen to a comfortable 22 degrees. Birds recorded on this leg of the journey included Buzzard (5), Jay, Stock Dove, Serin, Kestrel (pr) and Swallow (2).
Next leg is Tarragona to Valencia - birds added Black Kite, Serin and Sardinian Warbler.
The last leg of the Journey is now underway it's 17.00 and the temperature is still 21 degrees. The roads are a little busier but still nowhere near the traffic that is on our roads in the UK. We are about 2hrs away from the villa now and are starting to see the impressive Hoopoe that are common here.
As a comparison exercise we have been working out the cost of the fuel and the toll roads in France and Spain. We are travelling in a Ford Focus 1L Eco Drive. From door to door the total mileage is 1975km. In total we have spent £80 (in the Uk) and €160 on fuel and €135 on the toll roads. Just a few statics for those of you who might like to work out the cost of driving against flying.
We drive because Scruffy comes with us but even if we didn't have her I think we would still drive. If there is two of you to share the driving, like we do, in 30 hours you can be at our villa in Torrevieja with no waiting at airports for hours before your flight, that's if you are lucky and there is no delay. No paying for tissues and virtually anything else they can charge you for on budget airlines, just for the privilege of being "sardined" next to someone you don't know, but will soon be sharing your DNA with, as he is sat so close to you - Just quiet well constructed roads, beautiful scenery and good coffee at any of the many picnic stops that are provided along the route.
Weigh it up -a few hours longer to get there for about the same financial outlay (depending on how many people are travelling in the car, could even be cheaper ) include the cost of the Channel Tunnel AGAINST being stuck in an airport at some ungodly hour waiting to board a plane with seats so small an average person can just about fit in them, Aeroplane food and clouds to look at if you have paid for a window seat - NO BRAINER in my eyes.
Well that's all for today, we are in need of a shower, something to eat a couple of 'El Grande Guinness' for me and a glass of wine for Trace, along with a good night's sleep ready for a full days birding tomorrow.
Sent from my iPad


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It's been 14 years since EastEnders heartthrob Beppe di Marco left Walford, but he finally hit our screens again today (July 7).
Sadly, Beppe hasn't made a surprise return to the BBC soap. Instead, Michael Greco appeared on Loose Women to promote his latest project, Exposure The Musical.
His appearance still managed to send fans into a frenzy, with many commenting on how good he looks.
Although Greco doesn't look like he has aged a bit, he does sound rather different - later explaining to the panel that he had to undergo vocal surgery similar to singer Adele's.
Click play on the clip above to see him also discussing his surprising career change after leaving EastEnders in 2002.
Want up-to-the-minute soaps news and gossip on your social feeds? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Soaps Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @soapscoop Twitter account.
Digital Spy Soap Scoop video - hit play below for all the gossip on Kylie's Coronation Street exit, Whitney's possible pregnancy in EastEnders, Lawrence's breakdown in Emmerdale and Tony's big decision in Hollyoaks.