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The history of the Internet's standards simply does not bear that prediction out. The industry has chosen, time and time again, to adopt freely-implementable, freely-licensed, open infrastructure standards in preference to offerings that are encumbered with restrictions. [I think this is one area where the "stockbroker's caveat" applies: "Past performance is no guide to the future" i.e. the world has changed, not necessarily for the better, since the mid-1990s. Many of the things you refer to below have their origins in work in the 1970s and 1980s - different times, different customs.] What happened to the IBM MCA architecture? The industry chose the existing, open PC architecture. [That one is easy: IBM was a sole player trying to dominate in a market where a perfectly viable alternative existed. These two conditions will apply less and less as time goes by: the big hardware (and software players) are learning to move effectively in packs (i.e. standards development consortia), at least when it suits them, and such viable alternatives simply do not always exist.] What happened to the proprietary local networking architectures? The industry chose the open, freely-implementable Ethernet. [Ethernet's history is far from open in the sense you mean - see US Patent 4,063,220 for the start of the hardware side of things.] What happened to the dozens of proprietary mail transport protocols? The industry chose the open SMTP protocol. What happened to any of hundreds of other proprietary also-ran protocols? The TCP/IP suite of protocols, openly developed and documented by the IETF, was and continues to be chosen by the industry. [I refer generally back to my first comment] The W3C's existing track record of promoting freely implementable standards does indeed deserve better than to be bypassed. This track record is currently at risk, though, as evidenced by the ongoing debate on this list. [For the reasons I gave in my earlier post, RAND does not automatically mean not freely implementable - otherwise how do ANSI, ITU-T, ISO, IEC and others still function as technical standards bodies? ANSI has allowed a form of RAND licensing since 1974 - it still lives. Interestingly, one of the lesser-known things about most IPR policies adopted by technical standards bodied like ANSI, ISO, etc. is that they still have a built-in preference for non-patented technologies such that they will only accept them in proposals/standards where deemed "essential".] The W3's own stated charter <http://www.w3.org/Consortium/Points/> says that their purposes include: "enabling new forms of human communication and opportunities to share knowledge. One of W3C's primary goals is to make these benefits available to all people, whatever their hardware, software, network infrastructure [...]" "[...] promotes interoperability by designing and promoting open (non-proprietary) computer languages and protocols [...]" If the W3C does not make a clear commitment to standards that are freely implementable by all-comers, without discriminatory barriers like licensing restrictions or royalty fees, then their position as a standards organisation for the Web is forfeit, and they will deservedly wither on the vine as other organisations, which recognise the necessity of royalty-free standards for infrastructure, take up that role. [One of the points I often make is that, outside the sphere of regular TSOs like ANSI, standards bodies have a natural tendency to multiply: technical standards, as distinct from technical regulations, are voluntary after all ... ]Received on Thursday, 25 July 2002 17:51:08 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Tuesday, 6 January 2015 21:06:48 UTC


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Hola MiGente members. I am giving away 6 copies of my book "Freestyle." If you want a copy, simply leave me a comment letting me know and MiGente will select 6 members at random. Winners will be contacted via their MG inbox so make sure to check it periodically if you enter.
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Hey MiGente,
I'm the author of the "laugh-out-loud" funny and inspirational novel FREE STYLE. I am also the writer, director and producer of the hit off-Broadway plays YO SOY LATINA! and Jose Can Speak... I am Executive Producer of the first ever ULTIMATE LATINA THEATER FESTIVAL (www.migente.com/ultimatelatinafest) which ran for the entire month of June at the Bank Street Theater in NYC. I also happen to be the President of Latino Flavored Productions Inc. a multimedia entertainment company that produces Latino-flavored entertainment.
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Precious Hands
Precious Hands works closely with artisans in Guatemala to help design, produce, market and sell their handmade goods. Precious Hands commits part of its profits to their micro-loan program, which provides long-lasting and sustainable assistance to individuals in the communities where their artisans live and work. Through the program, individuals can earn fair wages, grow their businesses, and prosper, thus improving their lives and the lives of their children.
BEHIND THE SCENES with Precious Hands
Guatemalan indigenous women face high rates of violence and discrimination. With a population of 15.08 million, Guatemala is one of the most unequal countries in the world, in which 53 percent of the population lives in poverty, and 13 percent in extreme poverty. However, Guatemala has a rich and incredibly diverse culture, passing down handicraft techniques and traditions from generation to generation. Precious Hands works closely with women artisans to help design, produce, and market beautiful handmade goods in order to lift these women out of poverty and help them build a better, more sustainable livelihood. We spoke to Precious Hand's founder, Irma, and are excited to share with you what we learned about the technique and significance behind each one-of-a-kind product.
QUESTION:What motivated you to form Precious Hands? When was it founded?
ANSWER: I started working with artisans from various places in the highlands at the age of 24 with a Guatemalan/Danish company. After 14 years of running this company, I decided to take a couple of years off to think about a business of my own, not particularly in the handmade business; but a business where I could help myself and my family and make a difference in the lives of other people. After thinking and talking with friends, it seemed that, what I had been doing for years, working with artisans in Guatemala was the best way I could help myself and others since I had gained a lot of experience and there were many people needing to work and eager to learn and make new products, at the same time that they helped themselves, their family and their community thus helping the country as a whole. In October of 2007 Precious Hands LLC was created to facilitate payments on written orders at fairs or our website and then Manos Preciosas in Antigua on May 2008 to produce and export our products.
QUESTION: Can you explain the technique behind the one-of-a-kind Huipils?
ANSWER: Guatemala is a place where indigineous people proudly wear their traditional dress called "traje", which consists of a huipil and corte (embroidered blouse and skirt, both made on a foot-loom and back-strap loom). The technique, back-strap, to make these huipils is passed from generation to generation, dating back to the ancient Mayan civilizations. Each Maya village has their own specific pattern and style and often use different weaving techniques (back-strap, foot-loom and embroidery) which holds great cultural significance and sacred meaning as well as the personality, marital, social and wealth. The huipil is a traditional, square cut blouse that is hand woven on a back-strap loom and then heavily decorated, from the neck down to mid waist, with hand embroidered designs according the village they live or come from. These huipils are 100% handmade which makes them one of a kind since you cannot find two alike in the same color or design.
QUESTION: What is the significance of the different patterns on each Huipil?
ANSWER: As written above: Each Maya village has their own specific pattern and style and often use different weaving techniques (back-strap, foot-loom and embroider) which holds great cultural significance and sacred meaning as well as the personality, marital, social and wealth.
QUESTION: How long does it take to produce one Huipil?
ANSWER: Depending on the village, it can take from one to six months.
QUESTION: What is the process for using Huipils to create the beautiful Precious Hands products?
ANSWER: We use recycled huipils which have been used between 2 to 6 years where the embroidery is still in good condition and where most of the foot loomed fabric are torn or stained from every day use. The huipils are collected by local Mayan women, from the different villages we use, to make our products and they call us when they have between 20 to 50 huipils so that we can come to pay them and pick them up. We bring them to our workshop and cut the embroidered part to the size of the purses and bags we need. Once they are cut we bring them to the houses of women to sew them in their homes, along with all the necessary materials to make the purses or bags.
QUESTION: We're so excited about the new Corte duffel bags that we carry at The Little Market. Can you explain the technique behind these beautiful products?
ANSWER: We use recycled corte, which is the Mayan women skirts. These skirts are made on a foot loom that are normally done by a male weaver since you need strength on your feet and arms to make them, since these that are normally made by 50 yards, which are then cut by four, six and eight yards to make the skirts. Once they are cut to the length desired, then you can add another piece to make it longer which is done by the women, weaving/embroidering by hand with multicolor threads with animals, flowers or geometrics designs. Mostly you will find these weaving/embroidery on the dark/blue cortes such as the ones we use; these cortes (skirts) come from the village of San Pedro Sacatepequez, Santa Maria de Jesus, Nahuala and Quetzaltenango.
QUESTION: Can you elaborate on the microloan system and other assistance provided to the artisans?
ANSWER: This program provides small loans (up to $1,000.00) to qualified applicants in the communities where these products are made. The Precious Hands Micro-Loan Program provides small loans for educational and training opportunities, investments in existing businesses or to start new businesses.
QUESTION: What is the one thing you want your audiences to know about Precious Hands and its artisans?
ANSWER: The brand that we are representing, Precious Hands, are the hands of our artisans who work every piece 100% by hand, from a bracelet to a tote bag, which are made with patience, dedication, passion and love, thus making us proud to sell each product!


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Inspiration Hub
Heart Matters
- 2nd August 2018
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Movie Gist
- 23rd January 2018
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Volunteering for Teens Going for Gold Network is one of the best decisions I made. It's been 4 years and still counting. Thanks to our Lead Volunteer, Pelumi Obisesan for this amazing opportunity
"Teens Going for Gold Network taught me that success is having good values and being able to affect people's lives positively. Not about wealth or riches"
"The work you are doing is really laudable and should be encouraged"


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That pffffft you heard, and that faint whisp of smoke?
That's the candle being blown out on this chapter of Ryan Adams' life. Just like that, the supernova of a songwriter is gone, dissipating into the night.
At times, he wasn't a candle – he was a flame thrower, an inferno of emotion that scorched the musical landscape with his brilliant music. But, towards the end of his "final" tour, it just didn't seem to be there any more, the formerly blinding light was barely a flicker.
The last tour, from which Adams removed his name from the marquee, billing it as just The Cardinals, came through Memphis before finally coming to an end two days later in Atlanta. I couldn't have been more excited, yet this anticipation was tempered by the realization that this COULD be the end, the last chance any of us see the enigmatic musician.
I hadn't seen the band in several years, since my first live Cardinals experience in 2007 at the Germantown Performing Arts Centre. Frankly, it was a phenomenal show, probably one of my top five ever. The band came out and busted their asses for about an hour and a half. It was all acoustic, all emotion, and frankly, an amazing night. It was also one of the first, if not THE first, time I've ever been to a show without an encore. The crowd cheered for about five minutes, and then the lights came up. I was a bit shocked, but having just had my mind blown, I was okay with it. After all, we music fans aren't guaranteed an encore, but seem to have a sense of entitlement, like it's our right. But, it's not.
So, I was prepared for anything when the Cardinals came back to Memphis on March 18. Adams, dealing with Meniere's disease, is capable of so much on any given night. Electric sets, acoustic sets…who knows what you'll get. What I did know is that this was the end, having called it quits to move on to the next phase of his life. He's got a book of poetry on the shelf, and a fiction piece on the way. He just married pop princess Mandy Moore. And, after the Memphis show, he'd be loading his bus, driving to Mobile, Alabama to play, and then to Atlanta, and then off into the sunset.
The Cardinals came out to The Partridge Family's "Come On Get Happy," which retrospectively seems like Adams trying to psyche himself up for another night on stage, because really, he didn't seem to be feeling it throughout the whole show. They powered through the first few songs, and by the fourth tune, "Goodnight Rose," finally seemed to be hitting stride.
The band seemed to be in good spirits, even if Ryan himself stood off to the side by himself most of the night, in the dimmer part of the stage. After a few songs, Adams, clearly peeved with his equipment, announced that they were having trouble hearing and would be a taking a short break. He did so politely, telling the sold-out audience that he hoped we understood but they needed to fix the problem. Had Adams not spent 30 minutes during soundcheck playing the drums perhaps the musicians and engineers would have had all this stuff fine-tuned.
After about 15 minutes, the band came back on stage, played seven more songs in 35 minutes, and left without a word. Pedal steel player Jon Graboff's Facebook page was even updated to read "Leaving Memphis under the cover of night" mere hours after the show.
It's a little sad that for many of us, this is the last memory we'll have of a great band. I know that Ryan Adams shows have always had a reputation of being hit or miss, but on the last leg of the last tour, I expected more. I expect an artist to give his fans something to remember him by. A friend of mine was at three shows in the last two weeks of the tour, and proclaimed that she's "so over him," for much the same reason. Adams just didn't seem into it, which is a shame.
This could have been his chance to really blow it out. I don't expect "The Last Waltz," the end-all, be-all of final concerts. But, I expect your heart. I didn't expect the GPAC show to end without an encore, or so much as a word. But, I felt the band left it all on stage, and I was OK with it.
The 3/18 show, though – I half-expected no encore, but this time I wasn't OK with it. I don't feel that I got my fill.
Oddly enough, before the show a female fan told Adams that she "really loved" his music. His response? "Who gives a shit."
It definitely seemed, to me at least, that even the artist himself was not giving as much of a shit as he used to, which sucks. No audience member should ever leave a show of any sort feeling that the band gives anything short of their all. Everyone in any job has off-days, for certain. But to get the impression that a band just mailed it in – that sucks.
Obviously, Ryan Adams doesn't owe anything to anyone but himself. But, choosing to be a public figure, a rock and roll star, means that you will be under a microscope. And, when you take the stage, the public expects greatness, especially when you've delivered it time and again.
Hopefully, this time off stage will rejuvenate Ryan Adams. Hopefully he DOES find his way back to the stage, because when he's on, there are few better. He has the ability to turn a phrase, to spin tales and to tap emotions like very few in the last few decades. Frankly, musicians like Adams can't ever walk away completely. The guy writes a song every time he sits down on the toilet, and all that's inside him will NEED to come out somehow, be it in song, poem, or story.
So, goodbye, Mr. Adams. We hope you come back to the stage. There are some of us who need just a little bit more of you because we want you to put our emotions, how we feel in love, loss, relationships, and heartache into words.


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"When a man looks into the abyss he finds his character… And it's his character which prevents him from falling into the abyss" -Gordon Gecko
Right now the markets are overlooking an abyss. I'm sure many have noticed. And perhaps it's fueled pessimism. The question is whether or not we will fall into the abyss. If/when there's evidence we won't, there may be a good bullish entry in development.
Victor Sperandeo In his book Trader Vic discussed 2B bottom and topping pattern. There's good stuff on it here. (insert 2B or not 2B joke here)
There's always a debate on whether or not to use intraday signals, or to wait until the session closes, and whether or not to use daily or weekly signals.
Since I'm limited in time, I will stick to the more significant signals which tend to provide a bit higher confidence in their success, but provide fewer opportunities to take a trade.
Right now we have a week that potentially will close below significant levels (depending on which prior "low" you consider relevant, and which market you are looking at.) If it does, one way to plan a trade is to use this week's high as the trigger (a close above it), and this week's low as the stop.
You'd then typically target the recent high.
This signal is nothing magical, and I want to make sure you understand the psychology behind it.
The strategy works because of a few keys. The psychology is such that you can trigger a chase, following the market getting too one sided. In this case we are looking at the bullish signal, so the market gets too bearish, a breakdown signal occurs, and then we move above the session high during that signal. The tendency of the market to trend from extremes is combined with manageable entries. Basically, recent session high/low can often act as support and resistance providing a manageable entry and manageable exits. The prior low is also a significant psychological barrier which can trap a lot of people short, and the move above that session's high can trigger some chasing to cover as the short term traders covering or getting long can trigger some of the longer term technical traders who bet on a top and witness it move beyond their pain tolerance levels to the upside, causing a bit of a short squeeze.
Volume profiles can also be used to better understand the psychological breaking points, and you can modify an exit contingent upon what the volume profile looks like to fine tune the trade to the psychology of a stock or broad market…
Right now this signal is unconfirmed, but I have noticed enough pessimism for this to be a decent signal, and the volume profile supports it being a manageable entry with better likelihood of a move due to less price history in the areas above the entry and below the stop.
AN ALTERNATIVE way to trade it is to get short at some point between here and the signal and use the "buy entry" as a stop. The volume profile also suggests a fast move to the downside is possible. That supports the importance of the stop below if you buy a move above, but also allows for the reverse signal… Taking a bearish position while using the upside volume profile risk and "buy signal" to close out a bearish position. You would and target a downside move to fill the thin profile below.
How can both bearish and Bullish be right? Ultimately, only one trade will win, but the reason either trade can be profitable is the risk and reward is such that the probability of success doesn't need to be 50% to win. As long as the psychological litmus of the volume profile and tendcy of the markets to move to and from extremes exist, this trade carries with it an edge on either side.
Broad Market Signal vs Portfolio Management
I'm using the broad markets for the signal as more of an idea of how to shift portfolio allocations and position sizes. If the market is in buy signal, perhaps increase position sizes or increase risk allocation (number of positions long). If it's a sell signal, perhaps decrease position sizes or reduce risk allocation. Or perhaps if you're aggressive shift from net long to net short depending on the anticipated market direction.
Since there's fast zones above and even faster below, you could also strategically hedge using the broad markets in either direction so you aren't overexposed to one side.
Note: This is being posted 2/11, but images are from 2/10.
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This year hasn't seen the best of starts for TWT. Blogging aside, my bike has suffered from two breakdowns, both involving the derailleur, and last month my cycling plans were seriously hampered after my rear wheel was stolen. This then wasn't replaced properly by my local bike shop and caused a further problem when I was in the middle of a ride on the Isle of Wight, then another when I was visiting the Cyclopark in Gravesend. All in all, its been a very stuttering start. After February's floods, which affected the area where I live very badly, the weather hasn't improved much and has alternated between snow (in March) to perennial downpour. It seems that every time I've managed to find time for a proper ride, the weather has conspired against me.
The View Outside TWTs House in February
With Mrs TWT due to give birth next month and with a two year old running around, I'm finding less time to devote to cycling so am planning some changes to my routine. The only real time I'm getting to ride is on my way to work, so I'm looking to change where I'm based, maybe with a view towards being able to cycle all the way in. At the moment, I live 30 miles from where I work – which is fine one-way, but I'm not sure I fancy working shifts and then cycling for 60 miles. I've also applied for a further Ride 2 Work certificate so I can get that road bike I was talking about at Christmas. I've settled on a Cannondale Synapse 5 after test-riding it at Evans' Gatwick store and it was beautiful. It's slightly over the certificate value maximum of £1000, but the difference is worth it. I've never ridden a road bike before that test run and have to say that it was an awesome experience. The bike was effortlessly smooth to ride, responsive to handle and comfortable for a beginner like me. More on that when it arrives.


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I cleaned out the grooves so I had clean glue surface, and prepared the inlay – a figured maple.
Using a corked caul with plastic to prevent sticking to it, I glued in the maple. But once the inlay was in, I had squeeze out that even with tape down, is giving me some extra work. Example – some of the squeeze out was pressed by the caul into the bare wood in a very, very thin layer. This won't just "pop" of the way a bit thicker layer would from the stained surface. It's thin enough that it's in the pores of the wood.
Also, in trying to flush the inlay I have already marred the stained surface in several places.
Next – try to figure out how best to proceed…
Realizing I have another table top that has no shellac sealer, no stain, and no inlay glued in yet. I may try Norm's approach on the that one.
But solving the first (and larger, main) table top will dictate how to apply the finish on the second and on both bases to make sure the finish matches.
-- There are many tempting parking places on the road to success


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For twenty people connected to First Congregational Church, the answer will be "I helped people!" They are participants in our mission work trip for Habitat for Humanity, travelling to Pine Grove, West Virginia for the week, helping to build houses there. There were large work groups from here that went to the Back Bay Mission in Biloxi in 2010 (adults) and 2011 (youth and adults). Over the years there have been several Habitat mission groups, more recently to work with Tompkins-Cortland Habitat for Humanity in 2012 and 2013.
Habitat is one of the country's most impressive, long-running self-development and community-building programs. Quoting the material, "Habitat for Humanity's goal is that all God's children have a decent place in which to live. Habitat is working toward eliminating poverty housing one house at a time. At the heart of this ministry are volunteers, who give of their time and energy and sweat in order to make a difference in the lives of others. While volunteers build houses, they also build something just as important, hope. May this summer's work camp be one small part of bringing hope to those who are in need of a simple, decent place in which to live."
Habitat grew out of Koinonia Farm in Americus, GA in the 1970s under the leadership of Millard and Linda Fuller. Its goal is to provide decent, safe housing, and it works from a Christian perspective. One of its more famous features is the "build," with hundreds of volunteers scrambling to construct a new, simple home or to renovate an existing structure under the supervision of professional builders. Families are chosen carefully, offered ethical mortgages, and expected to invest their own "sweat equity" into their own and others' houses. Habitat also salvages materials from homes and renovations and uses those materials in Habitat builds and sells them at their "ReStores." There is a ReStore nearby in Corning you can support.
While Habitat is most known for their on-site "stick-built" homes, Habitat in Corning and Painted Post have a different process. Volunteers in the Southern Tier construct "Houses in a Box." During the winter they fabricate panelized homes that can be trucked to a site and assembled very quickly. It is a technique used elsewhere in the world but not as much around here. However, work can continue all year in a large warehouse in Painted Post. That "factory" is a popular service project for college students in the area during the school year. Little did I know when I was interim in Corning working with congregation members devoted to Habitat who were supervising many Cornell and Ithaca College students that I would end up on this end of their commute to build a better world!
So, here's this week's encouragement: surround the twenty souls with strong backs and arms and giving hearts as they are commissioned at the beginning of worship on Sunday, July 5, on their way to West Virginia. And I mean "at the beginning of worship!" Shortly after the call to worship we will have the commissioning litany, and then they will really walk out of the sanctuary and into the parking lot and get in the vans and start their pilgrimage to WV. It's a long trip, and they need to get on the road right away! But we truly want to bless them on their way. What did you do this weekend? Let's see them off with our best wishes and our prayers…. See you Sunday!
In Christ,
Texts for Sunday
From the Epistles 2 Corinthians 12:2-10
From the Gospels Mark 6:1-13


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Erin: I am a student at the University of Florida graduating with a mechanical engineering degree this December, but this summer I am actually interning in Santa Rosa, CA with Keysight technologies while running my company, Sci Chic. Growing up I have always loved science and making things. I constructed massive Rube Goldberg machines around my parents' house, sewed my Halloween costumes, and built big LEGO towers. I rented stacks of Bill Nye DVDs from the library. When it came to finally selecting my major in college I gravitated toward the degree that teaches you problem solving and how to create new things, mechanical engineering. On top of that, I grew up in Florida surrounded by the space program and loving watching shuttle launches out in my front yard.
Kate: Do you have any (other) creative outlets? How do they influence/affect your main work (if at all)?
Erin: I am an engineer with a heart full of art. I am the weird engineer that likes to write. I love sewing, fashion and costume design. I use 3D printing as a creative outlets. All of this has led me really focus on science communication in addition to my degree. I love combining all of my interests in new ways. I truly believe science is creative, fun and fashionable and I am on a mission to show that.
I have made everything from galaxy themed dresses to Ms. Frizzle costumes. I have written for the New York Times and Business in Greater Gainesville. If someone gives me a chance to make things I jump on that opportunity.
Kate: What's your biggest challenge?
Erin: Figuring out which route to take next! I graduate this December and I am tossing around a lot of options of the next path for me to take. I love entrepreneurship and science writing and am going to at least pursue them part time upon graduation, but I am also debating going in full force as a science communicator or going into industry or a grad school program I love. I am definitely applying to the MIT Media Lab upon graduation as they have an absolutely amazing program that I think really fits my personality and love of creation. Balancing all of these different things isn't easy and can be draining at times, but it is a true labor of love.
Erin: The best compliment I have ever received is that I am a really genuine person. After going to a conference with a friend, the friend told me tons of people came up to them later and told them they loved my genuine and real passion for what I am doing. It meant so much to me that this really came across and people could see how much I care about encouraging women in STEM and showing the creativity in STEAM.
Kate: Did you have any defining moments that galvanized your understanding of and/or commitment to feminism? How does it inform/inspire your work?
Erin: When I was leaving one of my previous jobs on the last day, one guy told me, "You are such a great engineer. Now don't become a mom and ruin all that." I wish I could say I had a great response, but I didn't. I just nodded my head and walked away. It really shocked me that someone would say that. As I thought about it later on and wished I had stood up for myself at the moment, it made me want to prepare for a situation like that in the future. Comments like that can't be ignored and it has sparked my motivation even more to encourage more women and diversity in STEM.
Kate: What are the best ways to support other women?
Erin: Reach behind you and pull others up with you. Do not be afraid to extend a hand. Help without the expectation of getting something in return, and the returns will come in ways that you never expected.
Kate: What is your advice to aspiring badasses?
Erin: Whatever it is that you love and are good at can be shaped into a career. You would be surprised. Talk to anyone and everyone you can. Learn about them and their passions. Then stay connected. You never know what person you meet could be the key to your future or will give you a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Erin Winick is a mechanical engineering student at the University of Florida and the founder of Sci Chic, a company that creates science and engineering-inspired jewelry using 3D printing. Erin is a passionate advocate for women in STEM and entrepreneurship and an active member of the Society of Women Engineers. Erin has interned at Keysight Technologies, John Deere, Solar Turbines and Bracken Engineering and published on 3D printing outreach. In her free time she enjoys making, especially sewing and costume design, hiking, and singing along to Hamilton and Something Rotten cast albums.
website // twitter // instagram // snapchat // scichic.com
Want more Badass Ladies?
Check out more profiles, or follow and boost from any of these accounts:
Check out more profiles, or follow and boost from any of these accounts:


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What to bring on this hike?1. Snacks and lunch;2. Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts;3. A bottle of sports drink with salt content;4. Comfortable sport shoes (hiking boots are strongly suggested).Level of difficulty for this hike: Level 3 (Moderate hikes)The level of these hikes are moderate and suitable for most people. The hiking time is usually 3-4 hours and the hikes usually include some more steep trails. They tend to 6-12 kilometers in length and approximately 500-1000 meters in elevation. However Level 3 hikes aren't tough and most people can make it without trouble as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness and are in good shape.For whom are Level 3 hikes suitable? Level 3 hikes are suitable for people who are fit and healthy. It is better to have a bit of prior hiking experiences.What is included on this hike? 1. Air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver;2. English-speaking hiking tour guide;3. Entrance fees; 4. Unlimited bottled water;5. Chinese home-made lunch.What is excluded on this hike? 1. Travel insurance;2. Cable car, chairlift, toboggan (slide way) or any other additional local facilities;3. Personal expenses.Customize this hike and make a private reservation:In addition to our regular weekly hikes, we also offer private tours. You can customize a private hike for you, your family or your friends exclusively. Just tell us what you want and we will organize a hike for you, with places, guides, transport, food, and accommodation all taken care of. You can make a private reservation on the private tour page.Pricing for a private tour:
Group size
Cost (per person)
5001. A private tour is more flexible. Both extra distance and less distance are available.2. Discounts are available for larger groups.3. Prices are quoted in Chinese dollars.Notes:1. There are risks involved in outdoor activities. Please read our Risk Acknowledgment and Waiver and inform yourself before participating.Other information about this hike:Reviews of this HikeInformation about Qiangzilu Great WallGreat Wall Facts


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Tuesday, May 4, 2010
New Posted Resources 05/04/2010
Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.
Posted by Steven Anderson at 7:30 AM
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50 Awesome Ways to Use Skype in the Classroom
Podcasting for Educators - home
Along with my good friend and literacy expert Shaelynn Farnsworth , we examine what authentic learning means and what these classrooms tr...


text: StellarNet Inc. announced its celebration of a 20-year milestone in the spectroscopy industry. Over the past two decades, it has pioneered innovations such as the world's first miniature concave grating based spectrometer and a completely portable LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) system, the company said. In addition, it has diversified its product offerings with systems such as a full chemometric software package that works with its spectrometers in real time. The company has added Titan Electro-Optics as its distributor in China, with offices in Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai. For more information, visit: www.stellarnet.us


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Supplements to improve health of skin and your confidence
All sorts of skin disorders can affect our confidence including acne, stretch marks and cellulite.
The skin is a connective tissue and requires a healthy blood supply and nutrients to maintain its health. Many people can use supplements to improve the health of their connective tissue.
Amino Acids are the building blocks of collagen and elastin. There fore the diet must include amino acids in substantial amounts to maintain and repair this connective tissue. Most people get enough via their normal diet but many people have problems digesting proteins and supplementation with beatine hcl may improve protein digestion. Minerals are essential cofactors in the production of collagen and elastin and are missing in many modern diets. Therefore a complete mineral supplementation is recommended
The supplement I have used that greatly improved the health of my skin is Vitamin C. Whilst found in many foods especially fruits it is water soluble and cannot be stored by the body. Along with amino acids proline and lysine vitamin c is used to make procollagen. Procollagen is the used to make all the different types of collagen found in the body. Type I collagen is found in the skin.
Cod Liver Oil is highly beneficial to improve health of the skin. As well as including essential fatty acids missing from most people's modern diet cod liver oil is a wonderful source of vitamin A and E and D which are absouletly essential for the skin. The fatty acids will also moisturise the skin and reduce skin inflammation. Cod liver oil as many health benefits.
Gotu kola is a herb that as been shown in scientific trials to improve health of skin. It increases the production of collagen, stimulates blood circulation to skin and is an antioxidant.
MSM is an organic source of sulphur. MSM makes cells more permeable to allow nutrients and water to flow easily across cells and toxins out of cells. Without adequate levels of MSM healthy tissue maintenance is disrupted symptoms include wrinkles, joint problems, scar tissue. MSM prevents prevents unwanted physical and chemical bonding of collagen that is responsible for aging skin. Sulphur is needed by the body to produce collagen. MSM is usually found in natural food sources via the sulphur diet. However heavy farming and poor diet have reduced amounts found naturally in foods.
Not only will MSM maintain skin it encourages the repair of damaged skin cells that are seen in wrinkles and stretch marks.
Learn more about the subject at http://how-to-treat-scars.co.uk/
MSM can be applied directly to the skin to repair damaged skin cells and encourage growth of new skin cells.
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input 'search anything.js ' in omnibox, will fail to seach
nikaone last edited by Gwen-Dragon
the string will be interpreted as an url, then fail to query DNS.
iAN CooG last edited by
works for me in 1.9.804.3 snapshot, which vivaldi version are you using?
Gwen-Dragon Moderator last edited by Gwen-Dragon
Can't confirm your problem with 1.8 Stable and 1.9 Snapshot on Win 10x64.
Which search engine do you have configured?
luetage last edited by
Can confirm. Inputting exactly "anything.js" will try to open a webpage on newest snapshot.
dLeon last edited by
Is this "Omnibox" actually "Quick Command"?
iAN CooG last edited by
@luetage said in input 'search anything.js ' in omnibox, will fail to seach:
well but that's is a valid site name
g anything.js
to make it search for it instead of trying it as site
IcePanther last edited by IcePanther
Well, .js is not a valid TLD; only experienced users having set their own local DNS resolution, or intranet users with a peculiar network administrator, with such a TLD would correctly see this as a website.
I myself encountered such a behavior several times, and was mildly annoyed at it ; though I, as a power user, know why the URL "looks like" (technically, IS a valid URL, as you pointed out) a website if simply parsed, I still am used to the navigator defaulting to search in this use case.
Maybe (it would require an option in the settings, though) URL search could be restricted to valid TLDs for the average/typical user ? Otherwise default to search with default engine.
Or (better?), enable (again, with optional setting to enable/disable such behavior ?) to default on "search with default search engine", when DNS resolution fails, like other browsers do (Firefox, Edge, Chrome...) ?
I don't know if this is possible, given I don't know what level of interaction Chromium permits (i.e. if Vivaldi developers can set a handler on DNS failure)
Edit : I would include a TLD list from Wikipedia, but the forum software does not let me, flags my post as spam when I include it ?
Edit 2 : This only applies when exactly inputting (except quotes) "anything.js" in the URL bar, "search anything.js" correctly searches it literally
Gwen-Dragon Moderator last edited by
@luetage But entering only anything.js was not the poster's problem!
Yes, and xxxxxx.xy will try to resolve as a domain, too – that is OK as it is a valid domain part. Independantly from non-existance of such domain.
nikaone last edited by
I forgot that, version is 1.8.770.54 (Stable channel) 32bit/win.
I was trying to search 'vue.js' in the location/url bar, the search engine things were not touched. I just installed it.
Gwen-Dragon Moderator last edited by
Yes, IANA list shows .js is not a official TLD.


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Keynote by Sue Langley at the Mind & Its Potential Conference.
What is emotional intelligence? And how can you tap into your brain's ability to be more emotionally intelligent?
Sue Langley spoke at the Mind & Its Potential Conference in Sydney in 2012 about how emotions work in the brain and what you need to know to be more intelligent about emotions at home and at work.
For more insights download Sue's free white paper on Emotional Intelligence at Work.


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Kilimanjaro Equipment Guide
What equipment do I need to climb Kilimanjaro?
Having the correct clothing & personal equipment will make your Kilimanjaro climb more enjoyable and comfortable and ultimately increase your chance of a successful summit.
We are fully aware that with all the different information and Kilimanjaro equipment lists out there, acquiring the correct gear can become very confusing and frustrating. To help you through this aspect of your planning, we would advise you read through our Kilimanjaro Equipment guide.
It is based on our first hand experience and will walk you through the essentials and "good to have`s" for your trek.
We would hate for any of our climbers to be in a predicament of having forgotten something and so to help you organise your gear and avoiding this situation, download the KCC Kilimanjaro Equipment Check List and tick off each item as your preparation unfolds.


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Wednesday, January 13, 2010
5S1 - Warriors' Gate 1
From the outset, you can see at least three similarities between The Mind Robber and Warriors' Gate. In both stories, the TARDIS behaves oddly, much of the action takes place in a white, featureless void, and thirdly, and most importantly, everything is really, really weird. Actually, things don't get too weird in Episode One, as everything that seems bizarre (time dams, time sensitive lions) is explained shortly afterwards. Things only seem weird, but they're not weird for weird's sake.
Biroc can traverse time lines willy nilly and appears in the TARDIS in both his own timeline and that of The Doctor's. The same seems to be the case with the TARDIS crew, who couldn't be more disjointed. It's like The Doctor and Romana are in their own timeline, while Adric and K-9 are in an entirely different timeline on the other side of the console room. Neither side interacts much, and no one talks to Adric, who flips a coin, presses a button, then stares at the scanner screen for the rest of the episode. Having said that, this just might be Matthew Waterhouse's best work on the series yet.
The best thing about this episode, though? Having a director, namely Paul Joyce, that actually gives a damn in wanting to put out the best possible show he can. The opening shot, a slow, tracking shot throughout the entire Privateer spaceship before ending up in the bridge, is inspired. It's an echo of the first shot of Season 18 in that it's somewhat superfluous, but puts an immediate stamp on the story and shows that it will be unlike anything seen in Doctor Who to date.
Posted by Steven at 1:32 PM
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The DREAM Project The DREAM Project
Here's a sample of our volunteer opportunities:VIEW AS
Mission Statement
The Dominican Republic Education And Mentoring (DREAM) Project is a US 501c3 nonprofit organization believes that quality, early and continuing education is the most effective way to break the cycle of poverty and change destinies. Our mission is to run inclusive, sustainable education programs for children and youth in the Dominican Republic that can be replicated throughout impoverished global communities.
We fulfill our Mission by: Building classrooms, computer labs, libraries, science labs, and sport recreation areas; Providing Dominican and international volunteers to teach in classrooms, libraries, and laboratories; Organizing and operating summer camps, youth groups, preschools, and teacher training facilities; Securing books, school supplies, and educational materials for the classrooms; Working in partnership with the Dominican Government, the United Nations, the U.S. Peace Corps, non-governmental organizations, universities, and high schools throughout the world. We are sustained through the generous contribution of time, talent, funds, materials and supplies from individuals, foundations, and businesses.


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Some common John Deere mower repairs are cleaning or replacing fuel lines, replacing spark plugs, replacing worn belts- and sharpening or cleaning mower blades. These four repairs fix numerous issues.
If the plugged fuel lines have been replaced and the mower still starts poorly or runs sluggishly, it might also be necessary to replace the fuel filter. Loose wires can also need to be reattached and fuses can burn out and need replaced.
John Deere mowers can also have trouble if not completely broken in or if broken in improperly. In this case and if the mower is new, John Deere recommends repeating the break-in process or adding 5 hours to the mower's break-in time before looking at things to repair.


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I just arrived in Montreal with my rat pack. I am excited to give my first TEDx talk @ McGill University regarding my expeditions. The best part about tomorrow is that my talk is at the Marche Bonsecours which is right on the Saint Lawrence River!
I will follow up post talk.


text: I have owned a LEAF for 3 years now and am considering upgrading to the Model S. I have a few concerns/questions I was hoping to get some feedback on. 1) Real world range. As some might be aware, the initial number Nissan gave on the LEAF was 100 miles per charge. That was later reduced to 73. In my experience there are 3 main things that bring this number down even further: Highway driving (ala 65-70 mph.. which I believe is a realistic speed). Winter/cold. I live in Chicago. Last year in particular was brutal, but it is common to have temperatures in 0-30 degree range (Fahrenheit) for multiple months here. Use of climate control (heat) during winter. This is a double whammy. The LEAF heating guzzles the battery. When the above is taken into consideration, the "actual" range can drop by another ~50% depending on what you are doing. So how does the Model S behave? Is range more in line with what is advertised? Does the climate control have a similar severe impact? I did come across this calculator here: http://www.teslamotors.com/goelectric#range (very cool btw). However there is a big "legal" disclaimer down below saying that the "calculators are provided for illustrations purposes only.." LOL. 2) Once the car is started and the heating activated, how long does it take for the actual heat to come out of the vents? Very poor with the LEAF. In my experience 5-10 minutes before any meaningful heat is coming from vents which makes shorter winter drives pretty miserable. To be clear, I am not talking about having the entire cabin warm or reach a certain temperature…just for warm/hot air to start coming out of the vents. 3) Can I use my existing indoor garage charger (Schneider Electric EVLink EV2430WS 240V/30A) with the Model S? This comes with its own cable that is permanently hanging on the wall (attached to the unit). My understanding is that the port on the Model S is different. Would I need an adaptor? Charge speed? Pros/cons? 4) Yearly battery degradation? What will the capacity/range be in 3-5 years? What will be my choices at that time? I am a newbie here and my apologies if some of these questions may have been raised before. Thanks in advance!


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Mass Audubon Society - Stony Brook Mass Audubon Society - Stony Brook
Here's a sample of our volunteer opportunities:VIEW AS
Mission Statement
The mission of the Massachusetts Audubon Society is to preserve the natural world through conservation and education.
Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary is cooperatively managed by the Massachusetts Audubon Society and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management. The sanctuary encompasses 241 acres of forest, field, and wetland habitats each offering exciting opportujnities for nature exploration. The 2 miles of trails on the sanctuary include a scenic boardwalk across a pond and marsh. Indoors, the visitor center contains displays on various natural history topics, program space, and a gift shop with nature oriented items.
This information
Might be out of date
Do you work for this organization?
Request administrator status and update its information!


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The Fourth Godhead
Reads: 252 | Likes: 0 | Shelves: 0 | Comments: 2
Short Story by: Victor Darnell Hadnot
Copyright (c) Victor Darnell Hadnot
"At midnight, in the month of June, I stand beneath the mystic moon, an opiate vapour, dewy, dim, exhales from out her golden rim." Edger Allen Poe
They always acted like they were better than the rest of us. But. I didn't see it that way. You go to work and you do all the right things. But in the end, who will mourn for you when you are gone? I was lonely. Very lonely. I had tried all the dating ways and nothing seemed to be a right fit. Oh. There was the occasional good date. A lovely woman who was much like myself. By that I mean, she too was lonely. In the big city, with all it's complicated business dealings and such, it was easy to lose sight of what was really important. I mean, does anyone really need a hundred million globals to be happy? Oh. Don't get me wrong. I like money just like the next person. I just don't worship it. Yeah. A lot of people, in fact, most people, worship money. It is one of the great anti-Christ. They'd do anything for it. Sell their only soul to have it. And for what? If you really think about it, all it is, is ink on paper. I mean, really? They print an image of the beast, on paper, and for that, people will rob you and kill you and make you homeless and all sorts of crap. I mean, what the freak? But. I'm not that much more evolved. No. I have enough sense to know that without it, my life would be very miserable. Still. Rich people die just like poor people. In the end, you trade one kingdom for another. So. Who am I and what do I do? My name is Rosco, I'm a musician. And yes, I do okay. So. You are asking, aren't there all sorts of pretty women, hanging around? Yes. But. One day, I awoke from what was a meaningless night of sex, and realized, the woman I was with, was like me, all she wanted was a meaningless night of sex. So. What does one do? Because in the end, I wanted a wife that basically was perfectly matched with my personality. Wasn't going to find that anywhere. The divorce rate had jumped to three out of four. Man, those odds were not very good. That was when a friend told me about a unique service. It was expensive, but, the results were guaranteed. For the price of a very expensive aircar, I could get a perfectly matched wife. What was the catch? She wasn't real. They did all sorts of psychological testing on me. An extensive background was done as well. They ended up telling me about myself. Things that I didn't know. Then the day finally came. I remember sitting at the bar with a friend, a bass player, we were good friends, I think it was my third drink and I was starting to feel it. Then she came into the bar. This was an upscale bar, basically, the well to do used it as a hangout. I don't know what it was, I just got a feeling, and then, I looked around and there she was. She was beautiful, but, in all the ways that I liked a woman to be beautiful. I kind of watched her for a moment, trying not to stare, she had long flowing black hair. A perfectly rectangular face. Big brown eyes, with a slightly Asian feature. Her skin was dark and smooth. Her lips full and well featured. Her body was a perfect pear shape, not over the top, just the right amount of hips. Long legs like an athlete. I kind of listened to her voice as she spoke with some people around her, specially when she ordered a drink at the bar. She had managed to work her way right next to me, when she ordered. I was for once, speechless.
But, I managed: "Hi..." I wasn't even sure if I said that.
Her eyes fixed on mine, and for a brief moment, we looked into each other's eyes and it was like looking into forever. The sounds around me seemed to just vanish, the lights, faded, and for just one moment, all I saw was her.
"Hi." she responded, waited for her drink and then went and found a table.
"Well? Are you going to just stand there or are you going to get after her? Before someone else hits on her." Frankie told me, her hand gesturing to all the other guys taking notice of her.
"I don't know what it is, Frankie. I mean, she made me weak in the knees for just a moment. That's just like crazy, right?" I told her.
"The two of you were staring at each other for the longest. Neither of you said a thing. I think she is seriously into you." Frankie told me. Frankie and I played a game when we were together. She'd be my wing woman and I'd be her wing man. We were good friends, like brother and sister, we'd known each other since childhood. I mean, we loved each other, there was no doubt, but, our love was in a different kind of way. I'm not sure why? And then, there was the fact that we were the principles of our musical band. Maybe that had something to do with it, I'm not sure.
I watched as one guy after another tried to hit on her, but, whatever she was telling them, they all were sent away. Finally, I felt Frankie give me a nudge. I got up the courage to go over to her. "I don't want you to think that I am hitting on you or anything, but, would you like some company?" That was the best I could do.
She smiled. "Took you long enough, Rosco. I was beginning to think that they got it all wrong. I'm Anaka."
"They? I don't understand?" I didn't, but, I sat down anyway. So far so good, she wasn't asking me to leave.
Anaka tilted her head. "I'm here. It's me."
Then it hit me. Oh my God. I had paid for the service, all that money, But. I thought they were going to deliver some awkward something or another. Not like Anaka. I finally said: "Are you trying to tell me that you are who I ordered? From the service?"
"Well. If you don't like me. Or. There is something about me that you want changed, you can still make changes. So long as we have not made love." She told me, her voice sounded like that of an angel, so lyrical and sweet.
"What do you mean?"
"If you are attracted to me and we end up making love, that is it. I am, who I am, there can be no changes."
"Forgive me for asking. But. Are you a robot?" I whispered the question.
Anaka laughed slightly. "Oh. I'm much more than that, Rosco. You are a very nice man and you are also a very lonely man. Just like the people at this bar. Look at them, they are talking and laughing, but, deep inside, what compels them to go out to a place like this?"
"I don't know. I was with my friend other there, Frankie." I motioned to Frenkie, who smiled and waved back.
"She is pretty. Why haven't the two of you hooked up? You are fiends. You both are lonely?"
"Wow. Wait. Frankie and I are just best friends. Our relationship is complicated. We are like kinfolk."
"Still. The way that she looks at you. She's in love with you."
I looked back at Frankie. Some guy was hitting on her. "Are you serious? I mean, we love each other, but, not in that kind of way. We care about each other, deeply. Like I said, family."
Anaka leaned forward. "Then she is family to me. Now."
"You really are from the service, aren't you?" I had been expecting something very different to happen. "I mean, it is okay and all. But. I guess I was expecting things to happen differently."
"Why? What did you think I was going to do? Come in a big wooden box?"
"What? No. That would be stupid. No. I expected. Actually, yeah."
"Touch my hand."
"Hold my hand." I did as she asked. She was warm and soft. Her hands felt really nice. "Do I feel like something cheap?"
"No. You feel really nice, actually. I'm sorry. I'm being an ass. Here you are, being hit on by all these guys in this bar, and all I can do is ask questions."
"There isn't anybody else in this bar for me except you."
"You were programmed to say that?"
Anaka raised an eyebrow. "Now you are being an ass."
I leaned back. "You are right. You are more than what I had expected. I mean, I always wanted a perfect woman. Someone to help me through the tough times, by just being there for me. I mean, I think that is all I really want. To know that she is never going to leave me. Even if I get sick and stuff. I mean, I know that what I am saying is stupid, but, I just want to know that, that woman, is really going to be there, for me and not someone else."
"Ah. Will I cheat on you?"
"Well. Look at you. You are gorgeous. You can have any man in this building. I mean, they all must be scratching their heads, trying to figure out why you haven't sent me packing by now, like you did the others."
"Hmm. First of all. You have not been hitting on me. You've been doing the opposite. Trying to make me reject you. So. You might go packing, all on your own."
"What happens if I do?"
"You didn't like me? I go back to where I came from and it is all over. It doesn't happen often, but, upon occasion, it does happen. The person, man or woman, after meeting one of us, decides that what they thought was a perfect mate, wasn't what they wanted at all."
"Yeah. Perfection. Who knows what that is, right."
"It means different things to different people. In your case, the physical was an after thought, you wanted a deep relationship. Someone who can talk to you at the same level of intimacy. I'm not just talking sex. I'm talking about feelings that you have, that you are not even aware of. But. You wanted someone who would not run away, if you decided to reveal your real self."
"And you are that person?"
"You are talking to me. And you have just met me. There must be something about me that you feel comfortable with."
"But. You said that I might walk?"
"You will. There is a 87% chance that you are not ready for this. It happens. People pay for the service, lots of money. And then they find out that there is something else missing in their lives."
"Like what?"
"Oh. God, maybe. They are looking for a religious expression. They already have people who love them. That is not the problem. They are looking for a relationship with God. And that is something that no one can pay for. No matter how rich you are."
"Man, they did a good job on you. You did your homework, I'll give you that."
"Ah. I was just made that way. Like I said. If you reject me. You'll never see me again. I'll walk out that door and that will be it."
"What do you mean it?"
"I mean. My life would have been this short, brief moment. In which, I got to meet you, talk to you, share some time with you. But. In the end, you wanted or needed something else."
"So. If I decide that you are too much for me. Because, that is what it will turn out to be, not that you are not enough. But. Like you said, maybe I just made a mistake. They will kill you? You won't exist anymore?"
"Technically, I am only three days old. That is how long I've been activated. So. I've lived three days. And this is the first day that I have met you, Rosco. So. Things are kind of new for me."
"Yet. You handle yourself so well?"
"Well. I'm not a child. I don't need that type of development. I come to you, ready to hit the road. But. That doesn't mean that I don't have a lot about life to learn. I was suppose to spend a lifetime with you, we were suppose to make each other happy. Don't I make you happy, Rosco?"
"Well. Yeah. You are wonderful. Beyond wonderful, Anaka. It's just that you seem so perfect. I mean, not just your physical looks, you seem to be able to tolerate me very well. And I am hard to tolerate. Just ask Frankie."
"Yes. She tolerates you well. I observed that."
"I guess she does."
"So. What would you like to do?"
"What am I suppose to do? What would you like me to do?"
"At this point. That is a question that only you can answer. Like I told you, if at any point in time, we end up making love. Then, I am yours and you are mine. I will love you and help you in anyway that I can. I will never cheat on you. A concern that you obviously have about relationships. I don't care if you are sick or well. I already love you. I can't help myself. You wanted a perfect companion. Well. Here I am."
"Yes." But. I found myself glancing over at Frankie, she had managed to dust off that guy that was hitting on her and was just at the bar, sitting alone by herself.
"What is it?"
"Frankie. She is alone, over there. We came in here together."
"Invite her over. I'd love to meet her."
I motioned Frankie over. She seemed happy I did and came over quickly. She took a seat and motioned the waiter for more drinks. "Hi. I'm Frankie. I play the bass guitar in our band."
"Yes. It is nice to meet you, Frankie. Rosco has been talking about you, non-stop." Anaka told her.
"Really?" Frankie looked at me like something was wrong with me. "Are you telling me that all you can talk about is little old me, when you have her in front of you? Half the guys in this place are ready to throw you out the door, just to have a shot at her."
"Frankie, meet, Anaka, Anaka, Frankie." So much for the formal introductions. "Yeah, well, you are my best friend, Frankie. You looked so lonely over there, by yourself."
Frankie said, "Anaka, you'll have to forgive my friend. He's had a bit too much to drink. Earlier, he couldn't keep his eyes off you, now, he's acting like a fool." To me she said: "Go. Get out of here, she seems perfect for you. I get it now. Be happy, Rosco. I want that for you."
I didn't know what to say. Here was my best friend. A pretty woman by her own rights. Talented. Whom I'd known forever, giving me permission to just go and be happy. Then It dawned on me. It wasn't that I didn't want happiness and love. I wanted happiness and love for my best friend, too. I asked, "Are you going to be okay?"
"Me? Come on. You know me, Rosco." Frankie replied.
"Yes. I do know you. I think that is the whole point. We've known each other for, like, forever. In all that time, have we ever even looked at one another, you know, like that?" I finally said.
Frankie frowned. "What are you saying, Rosco? You are like my brother. You know that, we were practically raised together. Best friends for life, remember?"
I looked at Anaka. "Frankie is my best friend, Anaka. I love her, you may not know that, Frankie, but, I guess it is something that needed to be said."
"Look. I get it," Frankie said. "Anaka is gorgeous and intelligent and just plain old drop dead beautiful. So. You feel a little like you need to be pinched, to see if you are not dreaming. I get it."
"Yeah, but..."
Frankie countered. "Don't be a fool, Rosco. You have a chance to be happy. I mean, really happy. Anaka, you are beautiful. I've been watching you, how you handled all those guys who were hitting on you. You got rid of them, with some classy moves. And all this time, this knucklehead has been trying his hardest to ditch you, yes, it is obvious to everyone here in the bar. And still, you sit here, Anaka. It says something about you, who you are."
"It is not that, Frankie. If I reject Anaka, they are going to kill her. She's only been alive for a few days. I can't let that happen to her."
Anaka said, "It's not about me, Rosco. This is your moment to decide. I'm here for you and will always be here for you. And I like you, Frankie. Rosco is lucky to have such an smart and lovely friend."
"Oh. Well. There you have it, Rosco. She says all the right things. You can't have it any better than that. I mean, Anaka is the perfect woman for you. I can see that."
I just glanced off. "Yes she is. Yes you are, Anaka. But. I was expecting something different."
"Different? What are you talking about, Rosco?" Frankie asked. "You got to be mental or something. You don't throw away love, Rosco. Not when it is right in front of you. You hang onto it and keep it safe. Love is too elusive. If you are one of the lucky ones, to have found it, or it has found you, in this case. Keep it. Because it might never come aback around. Believe me, honey, I know..."
"I know what you are saying. It's just that I was looking over at you and you seemed to be vulnerable. That guy trying to hit on you and stuff. For a second, I was frightened for you, that you might go off with the guy. What type of life are we living, Frankie? I mean, what type of freaking crap is that?" I told her.
"Look. It's not that I don't love you, Rosco. I mean, I love jamming with you. To me, there is no other person in the world that plays jazz guitar like you do. And because we have been jamming together for so long, it is like we can read each other's minds. I understand all of that, but, this is different. You have a chance to find real happiness. You'll always have me. I'm your friend and I love you so much. I love you enough to want to see you happy. To me, that is when you really love someone. When you want them to be happy at all cost. And if you are happy, I'm happy." Frankie confessed.
"I've been in other relationships before. I don't know why this one would be any different." I spoke out. "I guess I just want something good for you. I don't want you to feel left out, I know the right guy will come, and you'll find the love that you deserve." It was then that I realized that Anaka was gone. She had slipped away.
"How in the hell? Man, she is quiet, too? Go after her before something bad happens to her." Frankie urged.
I ran out of the bar. Like I had said, it was in an upscale part of time. So. I was less worried about someone doing something to her than, what she had told me, about her not being wanted. Why was I rejecting her, anyway? She was beautiful. So what if she was manufactured just for me? I found her, just standing under a lamp post. She was sobbing.
"What happened? One moment you were there. And the next, gone?' I asked her.
Tears flowed from her lovely eyes. "I don't want to die, Rosco."
Man was I an ass or what? "You are not going to die, Anaka. I'm not rejecting you. Frankie and I go through stuff like that. We've been doing that kind of thing all our lives. Like I said. We've been friends forever. So. You have to imagine, that on more than just one occasion, we actually thought about becoming more."
"Is that what that was? It seemed so real. Like the two of you were going to hookup or something. I mean, if you don't want me or need me, that is okay. But. I don't want to die. I just got here. There is so much to want to experience. Learn." She had calmed down some. Then she placed her head on my shoulders. "What am I going to do?"
"You? We? We are going to get off the street and go to my place." I told her.
"Oh. I'm not going to take advantage of you. Don't worry. I'm not like that. I was raised better than that, though, you might not notice, because of the bar scene and all."
"What is wrong with the bar scene?"
"Oh. Nothing. Lots of people meet there. It's just not church or something like that."
And so it was that after staying at my place for about a week, we went to church. Most of the elders of the church were surprised to see me there. I hadn't been in church in a long time. But. Anaka wanted to go there with me. Was she actually good for me? Mostly everyone was taken by Anaka's charm and drop dead good looks. The men patted me on the shoulder and gave me their nods. The women, mother figures to me, smiled and told Anaka to make an honest man of me. Back in my apartment, we got dressed into something casual and light. She started to make something to eat. I helped as well as I could, I really wasn't that good in the kitchen. She started to make a list of the things that she was going to need, in order to make better meals. I truly hadn't realized that I wanted a woman that was a good cook and deeply religious. I mean, I always assumed that the emptiness I felt, was from not having enough sex. But. Anaka and I hadn't had sex yet, still, she possessed qualities that I longed for. Was this all part of the programmin?. The service? One moment. As Anaka was preparing the meal. I just got a good look at her. Her silky hair all pulled back. She wore something old of mine, because I hadn't gotten around to shopping with her. The truth of the matter was that I hated shopping, unless it was new musical equipment. Then, you couldn't keep me from it. The way her breasts stood out, under the clothes she wore. Her obviously outstanding body, those perfectly rounder hips. Anaka sensed my attention to her, she smiled and then came over to me, kissing me on the mouth. Then she went back to doing what she had been doing.
"Maybe you and Frankie can go shopping? You know, get some new things for yourself." I finally uttered my thoughts.
"Oh. That would be great. I'll give her a call. That is if you don't mind?"
"No. By all means. I want you and Frankie to be friends." That was when she passed by me carrying a plate of food. She brushed up against my body. I felt her's. Something inside me just melted.
"Do you want to make love before we eat?" No sooner did I say it, that I realized that I was suppose to just be thinking it.
She came over to me with her warm smile, wrapped her arms around me and kissed me again. "Oh, yes. That would be very nice." We made love in the bedroom. It had to be the most intense experience, of love making, I'd ever had. We were so compatible, with our likes and dislikes, or our adventurous sides. As we proceeded, she wrapped her arms around me, then whispered in my ear: "Now. I am yours and you are mine."
It was then, that I remembered what she had told me when we first met. My God. I had done it. I had let the relationship move to the next level. She placed her warms hands on my face and looked me in the eyes. "Is everything okay?" I asked. I don't know why I asked, it seemed just fine.
Anaka kissed me on the lips. "You have no idea, my darling."
After our lovemaking, I call it that, because it was far more spiritual than just casual sex. We took a shower and settled in to the meal. I noticed that there was something different about Anaka. She seemed more confident with me. To be honest, I seemed more relaxed around her.
What had just happened?
"You are such a good cook, Anaka. You could open your own restaurant and head it as the chief chef." I thought I was just paying her a compliment.
"You know. You are right. That would make us a two income family. I think I'll do it."
I looked at her for a moment. "Just like that? You think you'll do it? I was paying you a compliment. I didn't mean that you have to get out and work. Not. If you don't want to."
"I do. We both are in good health. There is no reason why I couldn't contribute. Besides, I have expensive taste when it comes to clothes and food." She just shot me a smile and that was that.
Apparently, Anaka had connections, with whomever was behind the service, that brought her to me. She explained that it was a one time thing. That those at the service understood the challenges of building a couple's relationship. Careers and other things, was part of the package. In the months that followed, she managed to open a dinner club. Fashioned after the old speakeasies, it was really cool. I'd put the word out whenever I was gigging. My friends discovered what I found out early. That my fiancee was a great cook. Hmm. When did I start to consider Anaka my fiancee? But. It had happened. The engagement ring on her finger spoke volumes. Because it was a nightclub of sorts, my band hosted and gigged there all the time. The truth of the matter was that Anaka was really good for me. She'd listen to me, and I'd listen to her. We took our love seriously, not for granted. I thought that was so important, that a couple not think that they were together, bound by some invisible thing, but, that they worked on making the relationship better. Was that a lot of work? Anaka seemed up to the task. And me? After the first year of us being together, I had problems remembering what life was like without her. It was like we could read one another so well. One night after the club had closed. The band was up on stage going over some new musical ideas. I joined her in her office.
"Quite a swinging night. How is everything?"
Anaka looked up from the computer. "Oh. The club is doing well. You guys keep on playing that jazz and I'll keep on doing my thing, as well."
I sensed something. "What's wrong, Anaka? Is the club really doing okay?"
"Darling, trust me. We are operating deep in the black."
"Then. What's wrong?"
"Actually. There is nothing wrong."
"Okay. Then what? Just tell me."
"Are you happy? I mean, do we make each other happy?"
"Are you kidding? I was half the person I am today. If we lost all this, but, I hope that we don't, because it feels good to have a permanent place to gig at. Anyway, so long as we are okay, I can go on."
"That's how I feel."
"Then what is the problem?"
"I'm pregnant."
I just sat there for a long moment. I didn't know what to say. I actually thought that because she was from the service, that she couldn't get pregnant. "You are?"
The happiness and smile on her face could not be mistaken. "Yes. We are going to have a baby."
"Are you sure? Because I thought..."
"You thought that I was just a machine? Just some toy? Something that if you are rich enough to afford, you can have me?" She seemed disappointed, and I didn't blame her.
"Anaka, it isn't like that."
Just then, the other woman in my life came in. Frankie sensed the tension. "Wow. I haven't felt that between the two of you, like ever. What's wrong?"
"Anaka is pregnant. We are going to have a baby."
Frankie's face lit up and she ran over and gave Anaka a big hug. "Oh, girl friend, you are going to have to let me be there for you. In times like this, the last thing you need, is to be isolated. You need your friends. I'm going to tell the others." And she ran on off to do so.
"Wow. That was nice of her." I finally said.
"My problem is this. While I'd love to have this baby with you. If it is something that you don't want to do, you need to tell me now."
"What? Oh no. I don't believe in abortion. Not unless the mother's health is at risk. But. I do respect your rights, as a woman. But. Anaka, don't misread my actions. I'm just in shock. I hadn't planned on this, but, this is wonderful news." I smiled at her and then went over and kissed her. "I love you."
"I love you, too."
Sometime later, when we were alone. Planning on getting a new house, nothing fancy, but, bigger, because of the baby that was coming. I asked her: "How can a machine have a baby? Don't get mad at me, I just want to know. I mean, it's been bothering me. I don't understand the process."
"I'm not a machine, Rosco. Haven't you figured that out by now? You wanted a wife that would love you and be your life long companion. I wanted a husband that would love me and be my life long companion. The service provided us both with that." She simply explained.
"You are not a robot? You are real? You are a real woman. How stupid could I be? Of course you are. All this time, I thought they were going to make some kind of android or something, but, they just found you, you and I were perfectly matched." I slapped my forehead.
"I'm a real woman. But. I'm not human." She studied my face for a reaction.
"What? What do you mean, that you are not human?"
"Not in the sense that you'd understand it. You need to understand what the service really is."
"Alright. What is the service?"
"Imagine that you could pick the perfect person to be your mate? If you are a woman, the perfect man, if you are a man, the perfect woman. Well, that is what the service does. They match you at the DNA level, with your perfect soul mate. The problem is, that in most people's case, their soul mate, might not be born yet, or lived centuries ago." She stopped, allowing for me to process what she was telling me.
"What do you mean that you are not human?"
"Suppose, you had a soul mate, but, that soul mate was from another place in time? Suppose that she, was so lonely and lost, that she engaged a service, much like the one that you engaged, to find her a perfect mate?"
"Are you telling me that I'm your perfect mate?"
"What I'm trying to tell you, as delicately as I can, is that, it is you, who are my perfect man, darling. You can't begin to understand, what it was like, when I first laid eyes on you. There was no way I was going to ever not be with you. I fell in love with you at the first moment we met. I might have loved you before that, for all I know."
"How is that possible? Are you telling me that the service is some kind of super advanced dating service? Some mystic matchmaking deal?"
"All I can tell you, is that I come from a different time and place. We are not just physically matched, we've been spiritually mated. Our souls are perfectly matched for each other."
"So. I couldn't just get up right now and walk out on you?"
"Oh. You could. So. Could I. But. We crossed that bridge a long time ago."
It hit me then. "When we first made love. You whispered something in my ear. We can't be without one another, can we?"
"It'll hurt too much. It actually pains me just to be talking about us not being in one another's life. Don't you see, Rosco, you are my wish come true and I am yours."
"But. When we first met, you said, that if I rejected you, that you would be killed."
"I told you the truth. When we made love, we sealed the bond. I decide to be the one to be brought through time, to be with you. It was my decision. The process is very complicated, but, it is a one way ticket. I couldn't go back. Going back would erase me from all time."
"You mean, you would just not exist anymore?"
"I would never have existed. That is how the process works. So. The service has to be super sure that the match, is 100%. And we are."
"I suppose I should have asked these questions a long time ago. But..."
"We've been enjoying each other's company so much, that it didn't seem important? I know."
"Why is it that you know more about the process than I do?"
"Well. Because I'm the one who took the chance and crossed over time and space, to meet you. And I am glad that I did. Also, I'm the one who initiate the service first."
"Wait a minute. You traveled from the future into the past? You gave up your life in the future to be with me, in the past?"
"I gave up nothing. Where I come from, happiness and love are the only things that matter. Not money. Not position. Not status. We are all equal. Genuinely so."
"Here I was thinking that I had everything under control, and all the time, it was you who was controlling me?"
"Love is that we both have control over each other. And that we both don't control one another. There is no control, Rosco. Only love. And. Now. This wonderful child growing inside of me. The product of two people's desire to be loved."
"So. You are not a robot?"
Anaka smiled and shook her pretty hear. She kissed me and went into the kitchen, "No, darling, I'm just not completely human, either. People where I come from, are a mixture of things, some biological, some mechanical, mostly artificial."
"You are artificial? What does that mean?"
"It means that my cells look and act just like yours do. But. They are not actually like yours. So. In a sense, I am both manufactured and natural, because my physiology is artificial."
"So. In the future, robots are born?"
"Some are. Some are not. I'm a synthetic human, right down to the cellular level."
"But. The doctor's haven't said anything, about your pregnancy? Seems that they'd notice things."
"Not in this time. The technology hasn't been invented yet. You'd have to know what to look for, otherwise, I seem as human as you. I wanted you to know this, because our baby is going to be a hybrid."
"I'm guessing that is not going to be a problem?"
Anaka kissed me reassuringly. "I love you, Rosco."
"I love you, too. I guess that some people just go with the flow. Maybe that is what I should do from now on. This isn't just about me anymore, I see what you have been trying to tell me, this is truly an us, relationship. We both want to be here. You are smarter and stronger than what I first thought. I'll never underestimate that part of you again. Just one question?"
"What is that?"
"Were you really going to go back to the service, on the day that we met, when you walked out of the bar? Knowing what you've told me tonight?"
"No. I walked out, hoping that you'd come after me. And you did. That is all that matters."
"A time traveling matchmaking service? You can be matched with anyone in time, who has, or will ever live? This is wild."
"I know."
"Frankie is going to freak out when I tell her."
"She already knows."
"She does? You told her?"
"Frankie is the one who helped set us up. She's been helping me for some time now. We had a good girl's talk, and I told her as much as I told you. She just wants you to be happy. She really is your best friend."
"Well then? What does that make you?" I asked Anaka, my hands rested on her waist.
She kissed me again. "That makes me your wife and you my husband."
In all the strange things that happened to me, meeting Anaka was the most blessed. We were finally married a few months later. At the end of the term, Anaka gave birth to a little baby girl. She was just perfect, like her mother. Sometimes, when I reflected on everything, it was a series of things, that happened both in my time and in Anaka's. She had to want me as much as I wanted her. Two people, never having met one another, somehow, reaching across the vast expanses of space and time, coming from very different backgrounds, very different times, to come together. When our daughter got older, her mother and I would recall and tell the story of how one man and one woman, looking for love, were willing to take the ultimate chance, and reach out from beyond all reason and reality, to discover that love had found away.
© Copyright 2018 Victor Darnell Hadnot. All rights reserved.
Add Your Comments:
The story of Rosco and Anaka was fun, specially the initial confusion of whether or not she was an android.
What I am still wondering is the title... "The Fourth Godhead"... sounds like there are four deities.
I think one of those would be Money, which in a way has the universal power to control humanity. The second would be whatever godhead humanity worships in this world... the third and fourth are still not clear though. I am guessing a third one could be that time travel service from another dimension...
I also do not get how this is Christian Science Fiction. On a closer observation could be because of references to the religious references. Unless there is a hidden agenda to this (is there? o_O) like subliminally converting others to Christianity like many Booksians are trying with their stories.
The message of equality among humans was very good and fair. The story had themes of what do you call a human, and what it means to be human. I liked this, when I read in the summary "Christian" I rolled my eyes and expected something preachy and was initially discouraged.
Another theme I liked you pointed out was "perfection" and what is means to different people.
Sounds like Comporellon sort of stuff.
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YG will replace Travis Scott on the newly announced leg of the "DAMN." tour.
Kendrick Lamar has added 15 new dates to the North America edition of his "DAMN." tour. The tour now extends from mid July to early September. Travis Scott and D.R.A.M. will open for Kendrick on the first leg, which was announced in April. YG and D.R.A.M. will open for Kendrick on the second leg, which begins on August 11th at Anaheim's Honda Center.
See the full slate of dates below.
Wednesday, July 12, 2017
Phoenix AZ
Gila River Arena
Friday, July 14, 2017
Dallas TX
American Airlines Center
Saturday, July 15, 2017
Houston TX
Toyota Center
Monday, July 17, 2017
Duluth GA
Infinite Energy Arena
Wednesday, July 19, 2017
Philadelphia PA
Wells Fargo Center
Thursday, July 20, 2017
Brooklyn NY
Barclays Center
Friday, July 21, 2017
Washington DC
Verizon Center
Saturday, July 22, 2017
Boston MA
TD Garden
Sunday, July 23, 2017
Brooklyn NY
Barclays Center
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Toronto ON
Air Canada Centre
Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Auburn Hills MI
The Palace of Auburn Hills
Thursday, July 27, 2017
Chicago IL
United Center
Saturday, July 29, 2017
Denver CO
Pepsi Center
Tuesday, August 01, 2017
Seattle WA
Tacoma Dome
Wednesday, August 02, 2017
Vancouver BC
Rogers Arena
Friday, August 04, 2017
Oakland CA
Oracle Arena
Saturday, August 05, 2017
Las Vegas NV
T-Mobile Arena
Sunday, August 06, 2017
Los Angeles CA
STAPLES Center
Tuesday, August 08, 2017
Los Angeles CA
STAPLES Center
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Los Angeles CA
STAPLES Center
Friday, August 11, 2017
Anaheim CA
Honda Center
Saturday, August 12, 2017
San Jose CA
SAP Center
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Sacramento CA
Golden 1 Center
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Kansas City MO
Sprint Center
Friday, August 18, 2017
Lincoln NE
Pinnacle Bank Arena
Saturday, August 19, 2017
St. Paul MN
Xcel Energy Center
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Chicago IL
United Center
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Columbus OH
Schottenstein Center
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Toronto ON
Air Canada Centre
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Montreal QC
Bell Centre
Friday, August 25, 2017
Newark NJ
Prudential Center
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Charlotte NC
Spectrum Center
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Nashville TN
Bridgestone Arena
Friday, September 1, 2017
Tampa FL
Amalie Arena
Saturday, September 2, 2017
Miami FL
American Airlines Arena