text:
The thoughts of me and my dog who used to be Harvey, but is now George, who is Harvey's great-great-great-great-nephew.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Man about the house
He came in and explained that he was recently divorced and was collecting things for his house and doing it up. 'As I see you are,' he said.
I stared at him blankly for an instant. Then I realised.
Remember back in about April - just checked and it was February - when we started decorating the hall? It's painted above the wotsit but still waiting for paper below. You forget you're living under these conditions until it's pointed out to you by someone with fresh eyes.
I can't believe we've been like this since February. I need a man about the house.
The bookshop, the hairdresser and the plaque
On my way to the hairdressers I noticed a new remainders bookshop. Well, I had to just peek inside, didn't I? It turned out to be much better than the other leftovers bookshop we have, with lot of recent hardbacks at £2 or £1.50, including The Interpretation of Murder (h/b £2 and I recently bought it in p/b for £3.99) and Fly Fishing in the Yemen (h/b £2). I bought that one. And four others. And they only cost me £9. What a bargain. Look how much money I saved!
I would have told you what other books I bought but I left them in the hairdressers.
Never mind. I have to go back into town in the next couple of days to get a plaque for Harvey's memorial stone, so I can pick them up then. I was supposed to be getting the plaque before I went to the hairdressers but I was in the bookshop then. There seems to be some sort of poetic irony in that. (And I have no idea what that means but it sounds good.)
Then on the way home I was behind a sleek sports car with the numberplate LE04SPY. That made me think about whether I could get a personalised numberplate that said something like LI24 .. a three-letter word? That's it! LI2 4 GOD! Then all those nice innocent Christians would think it was my version of a fish, while everyone who knew me would know it really meant I wanted to BE God.
Actually I'd hate to be God. Think of all those requests, and decisions, and all that 'with power comes responsibility' malarkey. No, thank you. I have enough trouble running my life; the world can be someone else's problem.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Lookity, lookity!
Anyway imagine there's a photo here of a raspberry bush. If you look carefully you can just see some tiny green raspberries forming. Actually your imagination is better than my photo, which was a bit blurry.
I am very excited. There must be, oh, eight raspberries altogether. How shall I eat them? With a blob of clotted cream? Or just straight from the bush? Mmmm. Will I share them with Husband? Difficult one.
* * * * * * * *
I'm off to the hairdressers this afternoon. I was trying to wait until the last moment before going on holiday but even Younger Son has been commenting on my grey.
I am also trying the Kelloggs diet. Again. I am easily swayed by adverts; it's a good job I don't watch a lot of television. As it is I have a cupboard full of age-defying creams that I forget to use. The inventors didn't allow for memory loss in their thinking. Or perhaps they did. They can bring out a new one every week and someone will buy it because they've forgotten they have a cupboard full of ...
* * * * * * * *
What on earth is an enclosure link? Is it a bit like a winner's enclosure? Blogger keeps adding these new-fangled bits and pieces. James talks about Technorati - and stats and pings and readers.
Oh, yes, and why are these little stars appearing next to blog names in the Blogpower roll? What does it mean? Oh, it's beyond me. I'm going to the hairdressers. I need my quarterly fix of Hello magazine. Asuming I can get out of the closed-for-4-days road.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
The hair of the cat
Did you know that pulling your hair helps ease a headache? Or that a honey and banana milkshake is a good remedy for an overwrought stomach - if it doesn't make you sick first? The Irish suggest, allegedly, being buried up to your neck in sand - although it doesn't specify which way up. The trouble is, with me being a non-drinker, I'm not very sympathetic. I would tell people the best cure is to stop drinking to excess.
Or to drink pale expensive alcohol. It contains fewer toxins and you can't afford to drink so much.
(By the way, the Virgin wine service is very good. We also tried Laithwaites but Husband didn't like their wines so much.)
I have reached an age when ...
There's nothing like a good shake!
Sometimes with secret pride I sigh
Then wonder which is really mine:
Tolerance or a rubber spine?
Ogden Nash, 'Yes and No', 1938
There's a magazine that gets delivered to the church, monthly, maybe (or possibly quarterly). I flick through it. It's not usually engrossing but there's an article in the current edition about intolerance. It quotes from two books by AC Grayling. In Against All Gods, he writes, "It is time to demand of believers that they take their personal choices and preferences in these non-rational and too often dangerous matters into the private sphere, like their sexual proclivities."
But in The Meaning of Things, he argues, "An intolerant person ... wishes others to live as he thinks they ought and ... seeks to impose his practices and beliefs upon them."
I am as intolerant of intolerance as the next person. Someone who tries to dictate to me how I should live or what I should or should not do will not retain my attention nor deserve my love.
But I don't believe that is what Christianity is; it's certainly not what God is about. His 'rules' are for our good; his compassion is abundant; his forgiveness is quick.
When he says 'don't' - kill, covet, commit adultery etc - it's because people will end up getting up hurt. And above that, he says, 'Love.'
Grayling also writes, "It is time to demand ... a right to be free of proselytisation and the efforts of self-selected minority groups to impose their own choice of morality and practice on those who do not share their outlook."
I hope I don't proselytise (I just had to look that up in the dictionary and now I'm fairly sure I don't!) or try to impose my beliefs on anyone. As I've said before, we each have a choice; I can only write as it is for me.
There's a huge difference between those whose lives gently demonstrate God's love (Sean from Zac's springs to mind) and those who claim to be mouthpieces for God (fill in the name here).
To think on: the article said, "The mere fact that people distinguish between right and wrong is enough to convict them of intolerance." (Where I have written people, the article said Christians, but I think it applies to anyone.)
And now I have written far too many serious or gloomy posts of late; it's time to lighten up. I'll be back when I've planned my cocktail party ...
Told off
Monday, August 27, 2007
I knew I'd forgotten something
There are large display screens at either end of the ground and each time Gareth Jenkins, the Wales coach, was shown, he was booed. That is very unusual for a Welsh crowd. French fans regularly boo their own team when they feel they're being let down, but that's always been a Gallic thing. For our coach to cause that reaction from the crowd says much about how the Welsh public is feeling.
But with the World cup only three weeks off, it's no time to be changing coaches.
Aw, well, the competition comes round every four years; there's always 2011 to look forward to.
A sea of red
Above, the teams line up for the anthems.
We were up in one of the corners - for once the right corner! Normally tries are scored in the corner diagonally opposite and furthest away from where we are seated. Below, James Hook scores Wales's only try. He's the little red dot buried by white dots (the French, unusually, weren't playing in blue) just over the line. (Bear in mind that I was leaping up and screaming while trying to take this photo.)
Sunday, August 26, 2007
I looked at the car and at the balding, middle-aged driver in his white wrap-round sunglasses, and thought, 'Gee, I really envy your girlfriend.'
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Saturday Photohunt - Happy
Why I need a dog
P.P.S. Daughter was grumbling about lack of Harvey photos on this blog, so here's one taken a number of years ago on the Isle of Wight. Harvey says, 'Please don't tell anyone I'm with that lot.'
Friday, August 24, 2007
B-52 anyone?
Not for the sensitive
So I'm just warning anyone else who visits: I know Welshcakes does. We knew Steve was taking a sabbatical - and I was just checking to see if he'd changed his mind - but didn't think he'd hand over his blog name.
A crane by any other name
The cupboard is bare ... except for garlic
But you see I am such a poor gardener that I don't even know about hoeing: does it get rid of the weeds or are you supposed to pick them up by hand as well? Will turning them back into the ground allow them to grow again? But I suppose it is just a constant battle until one of you - probably me - gives up.
No raspberries this year either. Not unless they're very late fruiting.
* * * * * * * * * *
Have you noticed that when you do a word verification it always includes at least one of the more obscure letters? And the majority of the letters in the word are on the left side of the keyboard? Does it assume that robotic spammers are right-handed?
* * * * * * * * * *
On the radio yesterday was a report about a study that had been carried out. Apparently people with breathing difficulties who don't have to be taken too far to hospital get on better than people with breathing difficulties who do have to be taken a long way to hospital. And researchers get funding for this.
* * * * * * * * * *
Oh, yes, I nearly forgot. I was invited out yesterday by a man called Michel le Blanc with a sexy French accent. Shall I tell you any more or keep you on tenter'ooks? (Read with French accent)
* * * * * * * * *
I don't know what I'm having for tea.
I had boiled eggs for lunch. Yes, just boiled eggs, no soldiers. And raw Frosties. I still haven't been to the shop so goodness knows what delightful concoction I'll be eating this evening.
Oh, cranes, I remember.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Ain't life grand?
The Duty Front of House Manager took me into the auditorium and I started snapping away. I'd taken a few when I realised I didn't have the flash on. I took a few more ... and the batteries died. Ever the professional, I had taken spare ones in case of this very eventuality.
None of those worked either.
I told the DFoHM that I had plenty and that would be fine, thank you, and left hurriedly.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Have I mentioned that Daughter and Son-in-law are about to become proud owners of an allotment? They take it on in September and Daughter has set up a blog to record how they progress. She'd love it if you'd go and visit! (The blog that is - although you'd be welcome to visit the allotment as well as long as you take a spade and are prepared to work.)
We went to look at it last weekend. It is a very large plot that hasn't been tended for a year or so - it used to belong to Walter who grew cabbages. Husband and I are booked for a weekend in September to take our muscles and forks. I'm good at that sort of clearance gardening!
Several of the plots are completely overgrown and untended but, unless the tenants agree to give them up, they can't be handed on to the next person on the waiting list. And there is a waiting list. But to rent the allotment only costs about £20 a year so people hang on in the hope that one day they'll have time to do something with them.
I still find it hard to believe that my daughter is grown up, a good cook and now a keen gardener! (All she needs now is babies - as I have mentioned to them several times ... {it's okay, they just laugh at me!})
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
In which I meet the devil
I was christened as a baby. When I was about 10 or 11, my mum sent me to confirmation classes and I was confirmed as a member of the Church in Wales. I was brought up in that sort of background - not that my family was particularly religious: they were anything but! My mother went to church sometimes and it was my habit too. When my mum died, I turned to the church. I also tried yoga. I was looking for something.
Life went on, I got married and we moved to Southampton. I met and began to meet up with a group of Christian women. They had something i didn't have and I wanted it. I 'said the prayer', the 'I'm sorry and I want you in my life, God' prayer, and I 'became' a Christian.
Life didn't change dramatically: I don't think it does for most people. Paul (the apostle formerly known as Saul) had an unusual and dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus; other people talk of encountering God in a powerful way. That didn't happen for me.
What did happen, a few weeks after my 'conversion', was that I was assailed by doubt. Not just a little bit of doubt but a massive, throwing-it-all-at-me doubt. How could there possibly be a God? How could there be anyone big enough to be outside the universe, beyond infinity and eternity? And how or why would such a being care for me, know me by name even knowing the number of hairs on my head? It was just complete and utter nonsense that I was being taken in by. Everything that I'd always believed in one sense or another was total rubbish and utterly impossible. It wasn't God I was encountering but the devil.
These thoughts battled in my head, disturbing my nights and draining my days. I couldn't resolve it. My head felt it would burst. I remember throwing myself on the bed, crying out.
At the time I was attending on an occasional basis a church that was shared by Anglicans, Baptists and - I don't recall the other denomination - but they all took it in turns to lead the Sunday service and as far as I know everyone attended whatever denomination they were and whoever was running the service. (An example that hasn't been taken up even these years later.) Anyway, this particular Sunday the Baptist minister was preaching. He was an ex-policeman who was training and he was very down-to-earth. I spoke to him after the service and told him of my battle. He said simply, 'When I am overwhelmed by the enormity of it, I bring God down to size: I think of Jesus, the man, on the cross.'
Suddenly it all seemed simple.
If I believed that story then everything else - the minutiae - was unimportant. I could choose to believe or choose to disbelieve. I chose to believe.
That's why the contradictions don't bother me, why the errors, the factual inaccuracies, don't make an atheist of me. I have made my choice.
No-one forces us. It's simply a choice we're all offered.
The fact - as I see it - that it is accompanied with the offer of unconditional love is a bonus.
When Husband had cancer, he had to spend a week at a time in hospital having chemotherapy. One night, while Husband was away having his treatment, God held me in his hand. I couldn't have felt safer or more loved and secure if he had materialised before me.
I am a crappy Christian. I sin in thought, word and deed in spite of my best intentions. And very often my intentions aren't even good let alone best. I really hope people don't judge God by what they see in me. I am very aware of my faults, as is God. Yet if I say sorry, we can start again.
Those instances of meeting God or facing the devil so intensely haven't happened since. Sometimes I feel a very long way from God; other times I look at the sky - for it's easier to imagine Him up there somewhere - and smile and whisper, 'I love you.'
Thoughtful squared
Monday, August 20, 2007
What colo(u)r crayon are you?
|You Are a Green Crayon
Your world is colored in harmonious, peaceful, natural colors.
While some may associate green with money, you are one of the least materialistic people around.
Comfort is important to you. You like to feel as relaxed as possible - and you try to make others feel at ease.
You're very happy with who you are, and it certainly shows!
Your color wheel opposite is red. Every time you feel grounded, a red person does their best to shake you.
It's not the Angel of the North
And I'll just say, 'Way-ales!' Hallelujah, we beat Argentina 27-20. It was better than the last result but we still have a lot of work to do and not much time to do it in (the World Cup competition starts in three weeks or so). I'll be at the Millennium Stadium next Sunday to see Wales take on France (who yesterday beat England for the second time in two weeks) in a friendly. Photos of the Stadium, which is a fabulous venue, will follow.
Blogpower bloggers
You've got to admire a 19-year-old Thatcherite who wears a bow tie. Steven Bainbridge has spent the last two weeks performing at the Edinburgh Fringe for the second year running.
"I went last year with our youth theatre and we performed Shakespeare's Othello, in which I played Iago. That production got a 4* review and we packed the house nearly every day. ... (this year's) is called 45 minutes and basically explores the journey of one family who have only 45 minutes left to live."
Sadly, the final performance at the Fringe was yesterday but, no doubt, Steven will be back blogging soon to tell us all about it.
Andrew Allison drops a small but significant announcement into one of his recent posts.
"Becky and I went on holiday to Paris for a few days at the end of July and got engaged in a very plush Michelin starred restaurant."
I am a little concerned that he agrees with John Redwood (on anything) but many congratulations anyway to Andrew and Becky.
If you can remember who won an NME poll in 1965 or 1966, Richard Havers would like to hear from you. He has a photo on his blog that he thinks might be the Rockin' Berries but would welcome anyone who knows differently. He's also got a great early review of the Beatles.
I used to visit In Search of High Places regularly but, for some reason, I thought it had ceased. It hasn't. Alex, Matt and various others discuss, and disagree over, Christianity and atheism. Most of the arguments go way, way above my head but the most recent post is more on my level. Minnesota, where Alex lives, has been experiencing major storms - and he loves it.
"It seems we are all drawn to the fantastic. We'd all love to see a 'miracle' — something that just blows you away. I find myself ever drawn to this sense of awe. I love to be in the presence of great power. I like to feel small. I long to stand before something much greater than myself."
There's nothing more I need say so I'll stop.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Saturday Photohunt - Two
Friday, August 17, 2007
I want to do what the common people do
Lawks a'mercy, I don't want anything to do with those common children.
(I'm trying to think of diseases that common children might get but my brain is not co-operating. They obviously won't be as grand as the ailments posh children get, so maybe, tinypox or hiccuping-cough. Rubbish! Can you come up with better?)
Little old men
He was wearing lime green sweat pants and an olive green anorak. I bet he didn't have a wife. Why are old widowers such a pathetic sight, so much sadder-looking than old widows? I hate it when I see them in a shop buying what is obviously food for one. I think it's because they're of a generation when the woman looked after her man; and I am of a generation that is used to seeing our grandmothers, mothers even, looking after their men. To see them alone then makes them appear lost and lonely. I'm sure they are all perfectly capable of cooking and seeing to their own needs - except perhaps when it comes choosing clothes.
When I got into work, I was telling my boss about the man's trousers and anorak and I didn't need to finish my sentence: she finished it for me. 'I bet John would be like that if he didn't have Megan!' (John was one of the founders of our church and is notorious for buying his clothes in car boot sales.)
Thirty years on
In which I am officially declared a dork
Thursday, August 16, 2007
A bra changed my life ...
Until about six years ago, I was Mrs Sloppy Jim. Then - I can't remember what the spur was - was it daughter's wedding? Or was it a slow realisation that I was an old frump? Whatever it was, it kicked me into action: I visited Madame Foner's.
Now, girls, are you wearing the right size bra? It's a fact that the majority of women aren't. I certainly wasn't. I was making the mistake of buying a larger size rather than a larger cup size.
I've written here a slightly fictionalised account of my first visit; the fact wasn't that far removed from the fiction. Apart from my description of the woman fitting me: she was much nicer than the dragon in the story. But she did womanhandle me.
But I left the shop with a 'phwoar' chest.
Then I took the advice of Trinny and Suzannah and chose clothes that showed off my figure rather than hiding it. The change was amazing. Suddenly I was taking an interest and pleasure in what I was wearing. I made an effort. It was a new me. I felt good about how I looked.
And - and this is the important bit - I suddenly had confidence. Not just about how I looked but about lots of aspects of my life. Life seemed to suddenly open up for me.
Over the last 18 months I've received compliments from 20-year-olds, 50-year-olds and every age in between. It's brilliant!
Now I know that I am more than how I look, that how I look doesn't or shouldn't matter. But what I'm trying to say is that changing my appearance has changed how I feel about me. In this instance I am the most important; it's my opinion that counts. I feel good; I get complimented; I feel good. It's the opposite of a vicious circle.
I'm not this wonderfully glamorous, made-up, face-lifted woman. I am a middle-aged wife and mother with grey hairs, love handles and furrows for wrinkles. And, sometimes, when I'm slopping around the house or walking the dog, I have to avoid small children for fear of frightening them. (Fortunately Husband can't see far without his glasses and I 'misplace' them whenever possible.) But when I want to and I make the effort, I'm pretty passable.
And it all started with a bra.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Forgive us our trespasses
I looked at him. 'There 's a book in the Bible called Ezra? They haven't made a film of that one.'
I really am amazingly ignorant about matters religious. Sometimes I fear I will be found out and defrocked - or whatever the evangelical charismatic equivalent of that is - but then I remember I used to be part of a pub quiz team that included six Christians, three in positions of authority, who sometimes got the biblical questions wrong. That makes me feel better.
I know the important things. I know the things that don't come simply from reading a book.
In Zac's tonight we looked at forgiveness from the point of us forgiving others. It's rarely easy but until we do, we don't have peace. But even when we can forgive, we don't forget. But we don't have to.
The thing is that when God forgives us, he does forget.
Love keeps no record of wrongs.
Jingle bells
It started with not being able to find my cars keys (they were under my washing in the laundry basket), continued with me trying to use my home security code to get into Linden (I tried 3 times, wondering why it wasn't working), before reaching a crescendo with a little voice.
"The time now is 11:18; the time now is 11:18; the time now is ..."
My boss and I were both in the office when little voice started. We looked at each other and giggled nervously. I followed the voice to its source: it appeared to be coming from my handbag. I opened it and, sure enough, my mobile phone was telling me the time.
'You must have set the alarm,' my boss said.
'I don't know how to - and anyway, why would I set it for 11:18?'
Life is just a mystery.
A bit like the Christmas decorations.
Linden is a popular dumping ground. If anyone has something they don't want they say, 'It's too good to throw away so I'll leave it at Linden - but I won't mention it to anyone.' Sofas, hi-fi units, organs: we've had to get rid of them all in the past. Today it was the turn of the Christmas decorations.
We seem to have acquired a whole boxful of decorations. They're in good condition but we've already got more than enough baubles for our tree.
So I've taken out the few I really like and the rest are going to be discarded. And if anyone comes up to me at Christmas and says, 'Where's the box of decorations I left here for safe-keeping?' I'll reply, 'They've gone to the great grotto in the sky.'
No more Mrs Nice Girl.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
On the rocks
Last week we went and I decided I might as well pay for a month because it's cheaper that way - if you go at least twice a week. Husband said, 'Are you sure you'll go twice a week?' (It's okay for him; he'll be going daily to the hotel gym.)
'Yes,' said I, definitely and determinedly. And thinking about it, stupidly.
I'm going soon. I want to time my trip so I can watch Neighbours while I'm on the treadmill. Such things are important if I am to maintain my enthusiasm and sanity.
Today's Top Tip
Never have ice with your malt whisky: it kills the aroma, an important part of your enjoyment.
Monday, August 13, 2007
More this'n'that
Should I have done that? Told you, that is, not scritched him. I mean, I could see him. Well, not really obviously. Okay, it's probably time I changed the subject.
* * * * * * * * *
Apparently Manny Shinwell, MP, tried to get whisky made available on the National Health. He failed in that so then, when he was in the House of Lords, tried to have it declared a justifiable expense. I don't think he succeeded in that either but he did live to be over 100 on his glass or several of whisky a day.
* * * * * * * * *
I was reading posts on the Blogpower site this morning. I didn't understand half of it about feeds and stats,but I have now put that little thing at the side that shows me lovely piccies of my visitors (or their dogs or logos).
I noticed I was listed as one of the people who visits: that's not strictly true. I only visit those I like. And let's face it: my posts are fairly inane and of little interest to the political bloggers so I wouldn't expect them to visit me. I appreciate it when cbi and Lord Nazh call in; I don't consider James to be a political blogger or Jock, for that matter, although both of them do cover politics amongst a wider remit.
Anyway, I will make a point of visiting others - and trying to comment if I have the slightest idea what is being spoken about. Having a left-bent in a right-tilted blogroll doesn't help.
Yesterday and today, food and drink
Today I'm researching the history of whisky for a website article I'm writing. I've done brandy, and I still have gin and tequila to go, as well as cocktail recipes. Not bad for a tee-totaller.
And I am a tee-totaller. I had another argument with someone on Friday who insisted I was a drinker. I don't know where people get this idea from!!
Man on roof
I got my camera out (I don't usually take it to church but I knew what was coming), took the photo and waited ready to capture the next thrilling instalment. Which wasn't to be.
Once again, health and safety murmurings had spoiled the show. Alun (below in red shirt) had been keen to go for it, but Nigel (below and bearded) had more sense. So instead of being lowered from the top, Neil had to scramble down inside and be dragged out on a blanket thus:
It wasn't quite the spectacle it could have been but no-one could say it was boring.
That is why I am spectacularly unsuccessful at anything in life ... except enjoying it.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
This weekend Younger Son has been to the Bulldog Bash, a music and motorbike festival, apparently run by Hell's Angels. On Thursday night The Wurzels were headlining; on Friday it was Status Quo. He wasn't impressed with the Quo: all their music sounds the same he said. D'uh, yes.
* * * * * * * * * * *
After nearly four months of working in Swansea, and mostly from home, from tomorrow, Husband starts working away all week again. We'll get used to it; we always do. It doesn't mean we enjoy it.
It's been lovely having him around.
Try again
It grows in the same estuary as the world-famous Penclawdd cockles.
(We're told they're world-famous; it could be that no-one's heard of them!)
Sunday, August 12, 2007
I went to the market and I bought ...
Saturday, August 11, 2007
I don't believe it!
'They're not advertising that on television, surely?'
First it was towels with wings, then sachets for cystitis, but last night was the end: Soften hard stools with Dulcoease.
In the words of Victor Meldrew, 'I don't believe it!'
Saturday Photohunt - Row
Friday, August 10, 2007
And the Award for Schmoozing goes to ...
This is difficult, partly because there are lots I'd like to include, and partly because lots of people have already received it.
So I'll choose:
MDM, who lives with tyrannical twins and when he isn't swimming or doing karate is platform guard on the Nighttime Express;
Gledwood, who's proving with his blog that not all junkies are purse-snatching grandmother-killing psychos;
Ageis, who is a faithful visitor, as well as a motor-biking allotment-holder;
Robyn, over in Oz, who definitely has the power of schmooze;
and ...
Shades, who posts about theatres and lighting, and fascinating places, as well as his lovely family. And who, I've just discovered, posted a lovely video especially for me last week. Thank you, Ian.
Enter the Dragon
In it I select my Best Ever Rugby XV. Now don't worry if you don't know anything about rugby, the criteria I use are slightly different from what you might expect: I go more for sexy accent or nice legs rather than playing ability, so please have a look and comment.
I'm a girl, okay? What do you expect?
A lot easier to carry
Sometimes I just feel like hitting something.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Like a banana
When he was having chemotherapy and was in hospital for a week at a time, I bought him some pyjamas. Bright yellow ones. I thought they would cheer him up. He didn't like those either.
Now he doesn't buy me clothes and I don't buy him clothes. It's simpler that way.
Aren't firemen wonderful?
And in March firefighters cut a horse out of a caravan after it had got trapped inside.
Aren't our firefighters wonderful?
Back again!
My apologies
My blogging impetus, or lack of, isn't helped by my inability to post photos. I think my puta has nineoclockitis. Every time I try to upload a photo, that little clock thing appears, ticks round to nine and then stops.
And I don't really know what's going on in the world so I can't comment on that. Ooh, I remember: the lovely Welshcakes has awarded me with the power of - now I must spell this right - schmooze. I'll pop over there now, pick up the award and be back before you can say, Hairy Maclary from Donaldson's Dairy.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Dancing on treadmills
Monday, August 06, 2007
Good grief!
I made a point of avoiding the dog food aisle but my eyes filled up when I saw - wait for it - air fresheners.
In the last year or so, the house smelled - not just old dog smells but other, even less pleasant, whiffs resulting from Harvey's 'little problem'. So I became something of a connoisseur when it came to air fresheners. And my conclusion: nothing works. (Except candles, which are an expensive way of dealing with the dilemma.)
Just last week I bought a fancy new perfume diffuser cum toilet cleanser; it's made the toilet smell like a public lavatory. The sort with the very distinctive and highly-artificial scent. The smell also lingers on the person who has just used the loo.
So I won't be buying that again.
There should be a photo here
Although why anyone would want to cycle 100 miles ...
Is anyone else having problems uploading photos to Blogger or is our newly-installed Home Hub playing up?
No-one will notice me
When out walking, if he saw a strange dog approaching - strange as in one we didn't know rather than one with five legs or fangs dripping blood - he adopted the Statue Response. He'd stand stock still, barely breathing, as close to the edge of the path or the trees as he could get, in the belief that, 'No-one will notice me like this.'
Now you know - you've seen photos of him - Harvey was a big dog, and golden. He didn't easily blend into a woody background.
Small dogs with a Napoleon complex were the biggest threat, but the worst Harvey ever did was accidentally stand on one that was running between his legs.
On three or maybe four occasions during his lifetime, he was forced to defend himself when set upon by a vicious big dog: he was well able to do that and never came off worst. But he much preferred not to have to.
On one of those occasions I had assured him that the other dog didn't pose a threat: 'don't be silly, Harvey; he's a nice friendly dog.' The look he gave me afterwards said it all. 'Well, that's shows how much you know. Next time I'll stick with my own instincts.'
We sometimes called him a big soppy coward but he wasn't that at all. He had power; it just wasn't his nature to use it.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
62 - 5
Getting on
The house is very empty today and the kitchen seems enormous without a dog bed or bowls - or latterly, lots of bits of rug - to say nothing of a great smelly, slobbery, hairy monster.
We had a card from the vet. Inside it reads:
Grieve not,
nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you ...
I loved you so -
'twas Heaven here with you.
Isla Paschal Richardson
Friday, August 03, 2007
I swallowed a fly
We've also been on lots of Harvey's favourite walks, which he hadn't been able to do for some time. I say his favourite walks but actually any walk, or the one he was on at that particular moment, was his favourite. Even up to a couple of weeks ago he got excited if he thought he was going out - even though the reality was a lot harder than he remembered.
Holly and I have been exploring the woods. For the last eighteen months or so, council workmen have been clearing the undergrowth, particularly of the rogue rhododendrons that threatened to overwhelm the native woodland. Where there were narrow footpaths, now there are JCB-wide tracks and industrial-size shredders. It used to be that you could have put me down anywhere in the woods and I'd have had a good idea where I was but now all the familiar features have disappeared; it's very discombobulating.
Still we enjoyed ourselves although Holly now thinks her name is Harv-Holly.
Oh, yes, and I swallowed a fly. But I've no intention of following in the steps of the old lady.


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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Please, take your time and read this to the end, it will really profit you, guaranteed!
How to start participating?So, you decided to participate in MMM. How to do that? It is simple! Just go directly with this points.
- Register on the website. Click on this link to take you to the website.
- Enter the Personal Office (PO).
- There will be two big buttons: "Provide Help" and "Get Help".
- If you want to put your money, so click "Provide Help" and point the sum of money, you would like to put in the System. The minimal sum is 1000 NAIRA.
- You will get in the same moment Mavro (i.e. 1000 Mavro) in your PO, and they begin to grow with the rates of 30% per month.
(Mavro is only the currency inside the system.)
By the way You get mavro, but you cannot sell them, they will be under the status "Unconfirmed", because You didn't transfer your money, you just decided to do that.
- Then you will get the order with bank details of a man that you must transfer the money.
The order will also have the contact details of that man, so you can talk with him if you wish and make sure, that he is real and alive man, same as You are.
There is no central account in MMM, to collect all the money of participants (and from where they could be stolen easily). All the money transfers are made directly between participants.
It means that everything is quite clear and honest. MMM plays just a role as some kind of a dispatch, which connect the participants.
- Transfer the money to that participant. He confirms the receive, and after that Your Mavro become "confirmed". That's it! Now You can sell them at any moment, fully or in parts.
- If you want to sell your Mavro, click "Get Help" and point the sum.
Another participant will get the order and he will transfer money to You, provide help. Same as You did it before. But don't forget to confirm your money receive, after You get the money to Your bank account. (Not before! Beware of fraudsters!) Or the sender couldn't confirm his mavro.
- You can take a look of PO and all this buttons "Provide Help" and "Get help" in the DEMO.
- You can read detailed rules of system on the page "What is MMM".
Listen up now!. Every person who will register in MMM through my referral link (Click here to Register), in the period from September 26 up to October 1 will be awarded 1000 Mavro-Naira as a gift. No need even to provide help to receive this gift: a person just needs to sign up in the Community during this period and add his/her bank account details in the Personal Office. After a while the amount of 1000 Mavro-NGN will be automatically awarded to his/her PO account.
The purpose of the offer is to give each registered person an opportunity to get help from another MMM member instantly after registration, and make sure that MMM works and people really help each other here.
Good Luck! Long Live MMM!
MMM is not a bank, MMM does not collect your money, MMM is not an online business, HYIP, investment or MLM program. MMM is a community where people help each other. MMM gives you a technical platform which helps millions of participants worldwide to connect those who NEED help to those who are ready to PROVIDE help, for FREE. All transferred funds to another participant are your help given by your own good will to another one, absolutely gratis. If you are completely confident and certain in your actions and make your mind to participate, we kindly ask you to study carefully all warnings and instructions first. In cases of any matter regarding the topic Our online consultants are ready to help and answer all of your questions.
MMM is a community of people providing each other financial help on the principle of gratuitousness, reciprocity and benevolence.
In MMM you don't have to make contracts or pledge your property. In MMM there are no lenders and no debtors. Everything is very simple: one participant asks for help — another one helps.
The only thing that MMM demands from its participants is to be honest and kind to each other. You ask for financial help when you need it, you give financial help when you are able to do it.
VERY IMPORTANT!How does it work technically? You declare the willingness to give help (click in your Personal Office (hereinafter PO) "Provide Help"), after which your account will be rewarded with mavro (internal "currency"/scores of the System). Mavros will start growing from the moment of offering the contribution at the rate of 30% per month. (Calculation of reward occurs twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 00:00 GMT.) This sum in Mavro shows how much you can request for yourself.
There is no сentral account, where all the System money flows to (and where it can be easily stolen from :-)). All the money is only on the banking accounts of the participants themselves! On a lot of thousand and million private accounts. Participants transfer to each other directly, without intermediaries! (What are they for? :-)) In fact, MMM only regulates the process — nothing more.
So the System completely belongs to people. No kidding! It is a real mutual aid fund where ordinary people help each other.
There is no сentral account, where all the System money flows to (and where it can be easily stolen from :-)). All the money is only on the banking accounts of the participants themselves! On a lot of thousand and million private accounts. Participants transfer to each other directly, without intermediaries! (What are they for? :-)) In fact, MMM only regulates the process — nothing more.
So the System completely belongs to people. No kidding! It is a real mutual aid fund where ordinary people help each other.
Say you have announced willingness to assist with $ 100. You will be rewarded in your PO with 100 mavro. And they will immediately start growing! A month later, these 100 will become 130 mavro. Accordingly, you will be able to request assistance for $ 130.
Request for providing help comes to you in your personal office. If you do not do it within 48 hours, you will be removed from the system. (For all eternity. :-))
In cases of any matter regarding the topic our online consultants are ready to help and answer all your questions.
Please note that the use of the words 30% a month cannot be considered as a yield or interest rate since the funds were given away, we are not earning anything anywhere (we are a mutual-aid fund).
How to register and provide help in MMM Step-By-Step
1. Click here on this link to Register In MMM . – It will take you to mmm main website
2. When you are at the displayed website, click the button "Registration" at the top right-hand side of the website.
3. A form will appear on the website, fill the form with your details as follows:
i. Name:- Type in your full name. Let it be the same name you use in your bank account.
ii. E-mail:- Type in a good email address you always open.
iii. Mobil phone no:- Put your phone number starting with+234 e.g. +2348030123456.
iv. Password:- Type in the password of your choice (make sure to write it down somewhere safe).
v. Confirm Password:- Retype the password above.
vi. Invite:- This place will be filled in for you automatically. So let it be as it is, if it is blank or empty, type in the email address or referral name of the person who introduces you to the program. If you don't know it, call him/her and ask for it. Return that favor. In this case, you will see this email address automatically imputed for you, but if it is blank or empty, type in this email address: firstname.lastname@example.com
vii. Your guider's email:- Leave it empty.
viii. Your guider's phone number:- Leave it empty.
ix. How did you learn about us?:- It will be included automatically with "from friends". If it is empty, click on the scroll down button and select "from friends".
x. Picture Code:- Type in those picture words you see below. Type it in correctly, if you don't understand that one, click on "refresh" and another one will appear. Type it in correctly.
xi. Tick the small box to confirm you have read the warning.
xii. Then click on "Register in mmm".
1. Open the website – www.nigeria-mmm.net
2. Click on the button "Login to mmm". A new page will open.
3. Type in the CAPTCHA correctly and click on Login. Make sure the number is up to seven digits number.
4. If you type in the digits correctly, a new page will open and you will type in your email address which you use in the registration earlier and then type in your password also and click on the "Login button". A new page will open which is your dashboard or PO or personal office. It is from here you can do all you want to do and also see your progress report and other information.
Now you are going to add your bank account details.
1. Click on "Accounts" at the top of the page. A new page will open.
2. Click on "Add". A page will open which you can add your bank account details.
a. Account name – Type in your bank account name.
b. Bank identifier code – Skip these, Leave it blank.
c. Bank name – Type in your bank name in full e.g. Ecobank Nigeria PLC
d. Beneficiary name – Type in your name in full
e. Account number – Type in your bank account number.
f. Branch name – Leave it empty
g. Sort code – Leave it empty
h. Click on the "save" button. You have now added your bank account details.
Now you are going to make your first donation which is to "provide help". From
N 20,000 up-ward you get a bonus of $20.
From N 19,000 down to N1, 000 you don't get a bonus, but your 30% interest still stands. Let's begin:
1. Click on "Dashboard". A new page will open. You will see two big buttons which are "Provide help" and "Get help".
2. Click on "Provide help".
3. In the new page that just pop-up, tick the box and click "next".
4. Where you see currency you want to provide assistance in, "Nigerian Naira (NGN)" has already been selected for you, leave it at that.
5. In "select a bank for transferring the assistance to other participants, select "Other Bank" by ticking the round small button, and click next.
6. In the new page that pop-up type in the amount you want to Provide help with and click on the "Select" button besides it.
7. In the next box below, type in the same amount you want to Provide help with again, and click next. Another page opens.
8. "Confirm the authenticity of data entered" by typing in the code below into the space provided besides it.
9. If you typed it in correctly, you will receive the attention that reads "your request was added. Please wait for it to be added". Click "OK".
10. You have now concluded. A new page will open and you will see a green box below, direct and place your mouse (not click, don't click) on the green box and an information will pop-up, read it and wait patiently with your money ready. You will be matched with another participant who you will Provide Help to soon. When that time comes, a mail and a text will be sent to inform you. You must provide the help within two days.CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW TO "PROVIDE HELP", WITH PICTURES.YOU NEED TO SEE IT.
Now use this opportunity and go through your dashboard or PO or personal office (the all refer to the same thing) and get yourself familiar with everything there.
When you are matched, you will be sent an email and a text message informing you. The name, account number, phone number, etc. of the person you will send the money to or provide help to, will be sent to you. So call the person and make sure he/she is real. So make sure your money is ready and available. If after two days you can't provide the help you are blocked and remove from the program, because here, honesty is the priority. When you have provided help, after one month you can also get help yourself. You can get help in the amount of both your capital, interest and bonus if you have any. Check below for bonus details.
How to get your referral link which you can use to introduce people to the program
For every one you introduce you get a bonus of 10% of the amount they provide help with. So your money continues to increase. Let's begin:
1. Click on "My page". In the drop-down box, click on "my page" again. A page will open that is divided into two parts. One side is "My Page" and the other is "Your Data"
2. Direct your mouse to the "Your data" side and click on the "Referrer" Link. It will open and you will see the name of the person that introduces you to the program. To see and get your own referral link, click on the button "show my referral link". You will see your own referral link. Copy it out or save it and always use it to register people. Share it on Facebook, Twitter, blog etc. and invite people to register in MMM through your referral link.
How to use your referral link: Open your browser in your computer, laptop or phone, type or copy and paste your referral link in the url (web address) box and click enter on your computer. The MMM main site will open, click on "Register" and then proceed with the registration of your new invite.
How to use your referral link: Open your browser in your computer, laptop or phone, type or copy and paste your referral link in the url (web address) box and click enter on your computer. The MMM main site will open, click on "Register" and then proceed with the registration of your new invite.
On the other "My page" side by the left, you can fill in some information you have that is not already there if you wish and click "save" button at the bottom. Let's begin:
1. Click on the data you want to fill, a space or a box will show, type in what you want to edit or update. When you are through with everything, click the save button.
2. Be careful not to do mistakes. Don't change or edit things there too often.
1. Open the website: www.nigeria-mmm.net .
2. Login with your email address and password.
3. Click the "Get Help" button.
4. State the amount you need.
5. You will be matched with someone who will provide you the money. You can call him/her to inform them too.
6. When you have received the money, you must show appreciation, (so that other people will know), by sending the "Letter of Happiness", within two days.
1. You get a feeling of satisfaction because you are able to provide a helping hand financially to someone that needs financial assistance.
2. An assurance of getting helps financially in a space of two days maximally, of both your capital and accrues interest, as you desire. You can withdraw all or part of your money, after a period of one month or you can leave it for several months to accrue more interest. Check out the "Happiness Calculator" to see for yourself.
3. You get an interest of 30% on whatever amount you "Provide Help" with.
4. If you so desire to invite people to register in the program, you get a bonus of 10% of whatever amount they provide help with. By this alone, you can make good money by just inviting people to the program.
5. You increase your money through several avenues for bonuses.
6. Your money works for you instead of lying idle in the bank. This is a great idea of a passive income.
7. This is not a MLM business. It is not a must you must invite someone. But would you rather see a good thing and keep it all to yourself? There is love in sharing a good thing you have found, isn't it? That is why we spread the news and invite other people to participate in the program.
8. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.
9. It encourages savings. Savings is the bedrock of wealth, prosperity and success.
9. It encourages savings. Savings is the bedrock of wealth, prosperity and success.
But not everyone, only those who have contributed their own money as well. (Otherwise the System will be pulled apart. For bonuses. They will keep registering endlessly. :-))
1) $20 — if you have contributed from $50 to $499. Frozen for two weeks. If you take it out earlier — you will lose twenty.
2) $50 — if you have contributed from $500 to $2'999. Frozen for a month.
3) $100 — $3'000 and above. Also frozen for a month.
Once again about "freezing". Bear in mind that if you take your money out earlier, you'll lose registration bonus. Only the bonus! But the contribution with all the accrued interest will be paid.
Each participant is allowed to have only one account.
Referral bonus
You get 10% from all deposits of the participant you invited. Inviting new members into the Community is your additional contribution to its development. But nobody force the members of the Community to invite new participants.But at the same time, understanding that the MMM network can't exist without development and participants' encouragement in the form of referral bonuses motivate many people to take an active position.
Guiders of MMM Community can create their own multi-level structures and get a bonus from each donation of every participant in their structures. This is a multi-level bonus, thus a guider can have his own leader whose rank is higher. Guider's bonus depends on his level in the Community:
For example, if you are Ronald's guider, Ronald is Maricel's guider and Maricel is Joseph's, you will get 5% from Ronald's donation, 3% from Maricel's donation and 1% from Joseph's. If someone will be under Joseph, you will get from him 0.5% and so on.
Guider's bonuses are credited in the same way as referral, but only from new money deposited and will be available to withdraw after confirmation of your help provided.
For example, if you are Ronald's guider, Ronald is Maricel's guider and Maricel is Joseph's, you will get 5% from Ronald's donation, 3% from Maricel's donation and 1% from Joseph's. If someone will be under Joseph, you will get from him 0.5% and so on.
Guider's bonuses are credited in the same way as referral, but only from new money deposited and will be available to withdraw after confirmation of your help provided.
Bonus for the video in a "Letter of happiness" is +10%, +5% or +1% of the amount of received help.
After receiving help you have to send a "Letter of happiness". If you attach a video to it, you will get a bonus. The bonus is credited for each "Letter of happiness".
Bonus for your video story of providing help is +1% or +0.5% of the amount of the help provided.
In addition, you can record a video about providing help and get a bonus 1% or 0.5% of the amount of provided help. The size of the bonus depends on the fact if you show your face in the video or not.
After receiving help you have to send a "Letter of happiness". If you attach a video to it, you will get a bonus. The bonus is credited for each "Letter of happiness".
- 10% of the amount of help received — you will get for super quality video. It should be professional-looking: quality recording and editing. Record an interesting story in which you are the main character. Tell us how you will spend (spent) the money, what impact MMM ideology had on your life, how the Community changes your life, and invite other people to participate in MMM. The plot must be interesting and creative. The minimum resolution is 640x480. The minimum video duration is 1 min 30 sec.
- 5% of received help for the video where you show your face and your voice is heard clearly. Tell about your emotions from the participation in MMM and invite other people to join the Community!
- 1% of received help for the video where you don't show your face. You need to demonstrate your Personal Office and a photo of your bank accounts statement or an electronic statement from internet banking as a proof of receiving help.
Bonus for your video story of providing help is +1% or +0.5% of the amount of the help provided.
In addition, you can record a video about providing help and get a bonus 1% or 0.5% of the amount of provided help. The size of the bonus depends on the fact if you show your face in the video or not.
So for this kind of participants who have no internet (or just for the lazy ones :-)), institution of Trustees and Trustors has been created. (Any caprice, as they say! :-))
Any participant of MMM can entrust his/her guider the PO managing, assigning the leader as his/her Trustee. Provide complete access to PO and let him/her get into all these details. The participant just calls and gives assignments: "Take out this sum of money for me!" and so on.
How does it work?
The first option. The guider registers the participant and states that he/she is his Trustee. (If, let's say, the participant has no internet or does not know anything about computers).
The second option. The participant indicates in PO himself/herself that he/she makes the guider his/her Trustee (and provides him complete access to the PO — he is tired of bothering with all this! :-)). Of course, at any moment the participant can change his mind and refuse of Trustee's service.In order to protect from abuses from the Trustee's, the most important operations (change of account information for cash-out, creation of application for cash-out, confirmation of getting money) — only through confirmation code! I.e. at the Trustee's attempt to make such operation, a confirmation code will be asked. It is sent by sms to the Trustor. The Trustee gets in touch with the Trustor, explains the details and then the Trustor tells the confirmation code. (If he/she wants. :-)) Only in this way! :-))
Besides, when creating applications and assignments for cash-in the Trustor will also get the corresponding sms. Other than that, in the case of the assignment to send money, the recipient's account information will be indicated in the sms. (For the guider not to say: "Send it to me!" We know that! :-))
What else? The Trustee can go into PO of the Trustor right from his/her PO and then the same way can come back easily into his/her personal PO. I.e. managing of trustee's PO is extremely easy.
We can change the world!
and elevate your financial status today!
...Restoring hope to humanity.
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We have never set a bar to measure wealth in deciding who we will serve. If you need financial advice, we will gladly meet with you to do all possible to determine the best path forward for you. Whether you are younger or older in your time of life, our mission remains the same. We will always strive to provide solutions which serve your best interests. You know your needs better than anyone. We develop a logical, orchestrated plan which meets those needs.
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|By Admin1 (admin) (pool-151-196-12-124.balt.east.verizon.net - 22.214.171.124) on Tuesday, May 01, 2007 - 11:08 am: Edit Post
"Solve that immediately," is what President Arroyo wants her police chief to accomplish regarding the grisly murder of US Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said those were the exact words of Mrs. Arroyo to Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Calderon upon her arrival Saturday afternoon from Hainan Island in China where she keynoted the 6th Boao Forum for Asia. "That's the urgent order of the President to the authorities," Ermita said.
"Solve that immediately," is what President Arroyo wants her police chief to accomplish regarding the grisly murder of US Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell
GMA to PNP: Solve Campbell slay case immediately
By Paolo Romero
The Philippine Star 04/23/2007
U.S. Peace Corps Director Ronald A. Tschetter, who is in the Philippines to assist the search for Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell, speaks with Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at the presidential palace in Manila April 18, 2007. Campbell was feared murdered in the Philippines after her body was found in a shallow grave in a remote, mountainous area on Wednesday, the police said. REUTERS/Cheryl Ravel (PHILIPPINES)
"Solve that immediately," is what President Arroyo wants her police chief to accomplish regarding the grisly murder of US Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said those were the exact words of Mrs. Arroyo to Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Calderon upon her arrival Saturday afternoon from Hainan Island in China where she keynoted the 6th Boao Forum for Asia.
"That's the urgent order of the President to the authorities," Ermita said.
Mrs. Arroyo issued the order as authorities got a clearer picture of what caused the death of Campbell.
Police also yesterday identified the suspect as Juan Dontugan, 25, a woodcarver. He was the one reportedly seen by a 13-year-old boy carrying Campbell's backpack at about the same time she disappeared.
Police said the suspect was 5'7" in height, medium-built, fair complexioned, and with straight hair.
Although a resident of Batad, Dontugan was reportedly staying with his grandfather Apo Bugyaw in barangay Cruz in La Trinidad, Benguet at the time of the murder.
It was not clear if he was the same suspect described earlier as the husband of a vendor who sold a bottle of softdrink to Campbell before she made her way to Batad.
At Malacañang, Ermita said Mrs. Arroyo, upon her arrival, immediately sought an update on the case from him and Calderon.
He said Mrs. Arroyo stated that she wanted swift justice for Campbell as well as an assurance that the Philippines would remain a safe place for US Peace Corps members and other foreigners involved in voluntary civic works.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said local authorities have been directed to come up with some procedures to ensure the protection of foreign workers, especially those in remote municipalities.
"I'm sure that we have lessons learned as a result of this incident and the necessary measures to protect volunteers would be undertaken by local authorities," he said.
US Peace Corps Director Ron Tschetter last week met with the President at the Palace on the same day soldiers found Campbell's body in a dry creek, partially covered with soil, gravel and grass.
In Lagawe, Ifugao, Gov. Glenn Prudenciano said the indigenous people of Banaue were incapable of committing "such a dastardly deed" as the murder of Campbell.
"I know our indigenous people in Banaue, the intrepid Ifugaos are not like that and I don't believe any of them could have done such a dastardly deed, if the cause of her death was indeed foul play," Prudenciano said.
"As of now, officials are toying with the angles of foul play or accident," Prudenciano added.
Initial evidence showed Campbell was bludgeoned to death. Police said the principal suspect, who is at large, is the husband of a woman who sold a bottle of Coke to Campbell before she disappeared.
Prudenciano admitted Campbell's grisly death would affect tourism in the mountain enclave, but stressed the damage would not be serious.
Owners of hotels, restaurants, and other establishments in Banaue have expressed fears of an economic backlash in the wake of Campbell's death.
"Yes, undoubtedly there will be an effect, but not as big as the report may suggest, as it is only an isolated incident," Prudenciano said.
In fact, he said, there is no need to beef up the police force in the Banaue rice terraces and that new tourism guidelines like banning solo treks would be enough to prevent future attacks on tourists.
"What could be ascertained is that Miss Campbell had gone out by herself to Batad (village)," he said.
"So we are implementing these new guidelines for visitors to the Banaue rice terraces to prevent any repeat of the incident and as added security to the hikers against accident or foul play along the way," Prudenciano said.
The body of the 40-year-old Campbell was discovered half buried in a creek in Batad bolstering beliefs of foul play.
She was last seen on Easter Sunday on April 8 on a tricycle on her way to Batad for a trekking expedition to Banaue rice terraces.
Her disappearance came to light when she missed her appointments in Manila. A masseuse Campbell contracted before her trip to Batad said the Peace Corps volunteer did not show up at her rented hut.
Links to Related Topics (Tags):
Headlines: April, 2007; Peace Corps Philippines; Directory of Philippines RPCVs; Messages and Announcements for Philippines RPCVs; Safety and Security of Volunteers; Journalism; Crime; Murder
When this story was posted in May 2007, this was on the front page of PCOL:
Read the stories and leave your comments.
Peace Corps Online The Independent News Forum serving Returned Peace Corps Volunteers
PCOL serves half million
PCOL's readership for April exceeded 525,000 visitors - a 50% increase over last year. This year also saw the advent of a new web site: Peace Corps News that together with the Peace Corps Library and History of the Peace Corps serve 17,000 RPCVs, Staff, and Friends of the Peace Corps every day. Thanks for making PCOL your source of news for the Peace Corps community. Read more.
Suspect confesses in murder of PCV
Search parties in the Philippines discovered the body of Peace Corps Volunteer Julia Campbell near Barangay Batad, Banaue town on April 17. Director Tschetter expressed his sorrow at learning the news. "Julia was a proud member of the Peace Corps family, and she contributed greatly to the lives of Filipino citizens in Donsol, Sorsogon, where she served," he said. Latest: Suspect Juan Duntugan admits to killing Campbell. Leave your thoughts and condolences .
Warren Wiggins: Architect of the Peace Corps
Warren Wiggins, who died at 84 on April 13, became one of the architects of the Peace Corps in 1961 when his paper, "A Towering Task," landed in the lap of Sargent Shriver, just as Shriver was trying to figure out how to turn the Peace Corps into a working federal department. Shriver was electrified by the treatise, which urged the agency to act boldly. Read Mr. Wiggins' obituary and biography, take an opportunity to read the original document that shaped the Peace Corps' mission, and read John Coyne's special issue commemorating "A Towering Task."
March 14, 2007: This Month's Top Stories
Evacuated PCVs attend Festival on the Niger in Mali 23 Feb
Tom Bissell tells the story of how Vietnam came home 13 Mar
Mike Honda cites Japan's Sex Slavery 8 Mar
Donna Shalala co-chairs presidential commission 7 Mar
Sixth Anniversary of Disappearance of PCV Walter Poirier 6 Mar
Sam Farr was de-selected during Peace Corps Training 6 Mar
Elaine Jones would be good fit for NAACP President 6 Mar
Pat Waak re-elected chairwoman of Colorado Dems 5 Mar
Astronaut Mae Jemison was PC Medical Officer 4 Mar
Guy Consolmagno blends faith and science 3 Mar
Doyle Turns Down Federal Abstinence Money 3 Mar
Owen Cylke writes: Taxi in the Rain 2 Mar
Jody Olsen receives "Founder's Day" Award 2 Mar
Chris Dodd introduces PCV Empowerment Act 1 Mar
Michael O'Hanlon writes: Iraq Deserves One More Chance 1 Mar
An Excerpt from Jan Worth's Night Blind 28 Feb
David Harde sentenced for Medical Marijuana 28 Feb
Oscar winner Helen Mirren congratulated by RPCV husband 26 Feb
RPCVs distribute mosquito nets 25 Feb
Peter McPherson new Chairman of Dow Jones 21 Feb
Arabic speakers under-utilized in Homeland Security 9 Feb
Dr. J. Michael Taylor co- founded Konbit Sante 4 Feb
February 23, 2007: This Month's Top Stories
Hill announces Draft Accord in North Korea Nuclear Talks 12 Feb
Dodd builds connections in New Hampshire 19 Feb
PCVs accused of counterinsurgency activities 19 Feb
Harris Wofford declares support for Obama 18 Feb
Tschetter becomes the first Director to visit Malawi 16 Feb
New Fellows Program at Yale University 15 Feb
Sidney Slover helps start donut production in Honduras 16 Feb
Kevin O'Donnell's Daughter and Granddaughter are PCVs 14 Feb
Joe Krueger helps restore Liberia's timber industry 14 Feb
Peace Corps Hippies 13 Feb
Maryland RPCVs to screen "American Idealist" on March 3 9 Feb
Aaron Kase writes: Moon over Africa 8 Feb
Margaret Krome writes: 'Rogue nations' aren't only threat 8 Feb
Shays says he would Support McCain 8 Feb
A Mistrial for Lieut. Watada 8 Feb
Chris Matthews drops the F-bomb 8 Feb
RPCVs - Believe it or not 07 Feb
White House requests $334 Million for Peace Corps 5 Feb
Carol Bellamy writes: We need an Earth Corps 3 Feb
First Group of PCVs arrive in Cambodia 2 Feb
Mae Jemison wears red for charity 2 Feb
Dear Miss Lonelyhearts 30 Jan
The Peace Corps Library
The Peace Corps Library is now available online with over 40,000 index entries in 500 categories. Looking for a Returned Volunteer? Check our RPCV Directory or leave a message on our Bulletin Board. New: Sign up to receive our free Monthly Magazine by email, research the History of the Peace Corps, or sign up for a daily news summary of Peace Corps stories. FAQ: Visit our FAQ for more information about PCOL.
Chris Dodd's Vision for the Peace Corps
Senator Chris Dodd (RPCV Dominican Republic) spoke at the ceremony for this year's Shriver Award and elaborated on issues he raised at Ron Tschetter's hearings. Dodd plans to introduce legislation that may include: setting aside a portion of Peace Corps' budget as seed money for demonstration projects and third goal activities (after adjusting the annual budget upward to accommodate the added expense), more volunteer input into Peace Corps operations, removing medical, healthcare and tax impediments that discourage older volunteers, providing more transparency in the medical screening and appeals process, a more comprehensive health safety net for recently-returned volunteers, and authorizing volunteers to accept, under certain circumstances, private donations to support their development projects. He plans to circulate draft legislation for review to members of the Peace Corps community and welcomes RPCV comments.
He served with honor
One year ago, Staff Sgt. Robert J. Paul (RPCV Kenya) carried on an ongoing dialog on this website on the military and the peace corps and his role as a member of a Civil Affairs Team in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have just received a report that Sargeant Paul has been killed by a car bomb in Kabul. Words cannot express our feeling of loss for this tremendous injury to the entire RPCV community. Most of us didn't know him personally but we knew him from his words. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. He was one of ours and he served with honor.
Meet Ron Tschetter - Our Next Director
Read our story about Ron Tschetter's confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that was carried on C-Span. It was very different from the Vasquez hearings in 2001, very cut and dried with low attendance by the public. Among the highlights, Tschetter intends to make recruitment of baby boomers a priority, there are 20 countries under consideration for future programs, Senator Dodd intends to re-introduce his third goal Peace Corps legislation this session, Tschetter is a great admirer of Senator Coleman's quest for accountability, Dodd thinks management at PC may not put volunteers first, Dodd wants Tschetter to look into problems in medical selection, and Tschetter is not a blogger and knows little about the internet or guidelines for volunteer blogs. Read our recap of the hearings as well as Senator Coleman's statement and Tschetter's statement.
Peace Corps' Screening and Medical Clearance
The purpose of Peace Corps' screening and medical clearance process is to ensure safe accommodation for applicants and minimize undue risk exposure for volunteers to allow PCVS to complete their service without compromising their entry health status. To further these goals, PCOL has obtained a copy of the Peace Corps Screening Guidelines Manual through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and has posted it in the "Peace Corps Library." Applicants and Medical Professionals (especially those who have already served as volunteers) are urged to review the guidelines and leave their comments and suggestions. Then read the story of one RPCV's journey through medical screening and his suggestions for changes to the process.
The Peace Corps is "fashionable" again
The LA Times says that "the Peace Corps is booming again and "It's hard to know exactly what's behind the resurgence." PCOL Comment: Since the founding of the Peace Corps 45 years ago, Americans have answered Kennedy's call: "Ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man." Over 182,000 have served. Another 200,000 have applied and been unable to serve because of lack of Congressional funding. The Peace Corps has never gone out of fashion. It's Congress that hasn't been keeping pace.
PCOL readership increases 100%
Monthly readership on "Peace Corps Online" has increased in the past twelve months to 350,000 visitors - over eleven thousand every day - a 100% increase since this time last year. Thanks again, RPCVs and Friends of the Peace Corps, for making PCOL your source of information for the Peace Corps community. And thanks for supporting the Peace Corps Library and History of the Peace Corps. Stay tuned, the best is yet to come.
History of the Peace Corps
PCOL is proud to announce that Phase One of the "History of the Peace Corps" is now available online. This installment includes over 5,000 pages of primary source documents from the archives of the Peace Corps including every issue of "Peace Corps News," "Peace Corps Times," "Peace Corps Volunteer," "Action Update," and every annual report of the Peace Corps to Congress since 1961. "Ask Not" is an ongoing project. Read how you can help.


text:
There's no shortage of extraordinary applicants at Notre Dame.
Over 20,371 students applied for the 2,070 places in the first-year class of 2018.
As we evaluate applications, we admit students who excel within the context of our highly competitive applicant pool. We are proud of the students we enroll, and we understand that we can't admit every incredible student who applies.
Here's what we're looking for:
Academic performance in high school
There's no minimum grade point average or class rank required, but know this: You're up against the best and the brightest in the world. The more rigorous your course selection, the better your grades, and the higher your class rank, the more competitive your application will be.
High school academic requirements
The University requires the completion of the following high school courses in order to be considered for admission. A unit is the credit for a year of satisfactory work in an accredited secondary school. The two language units required should be in the same language.
For students intending to enter the College of Arts and Letters or the Mendoza College of Business, excluding the Arts and Letters Pre-Health program, Neuroscience and Behavior, and the combined Arts-Engineering program, the required 16 units must be distributed as follows:
- 4 units of English
- 3 units of Mathematics - Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry (4 units preferred)
- 2 units of Foreign Language (3-4 units preferred)
- 2 units of Science (4 units preferred)
- 2 units of History/Social Science (3-4 units preferred)
- 3 units of additional History/Social Science, Science, Foreign Language, Mathematics, and English courses
For students intending to enter the College of Science, the College of Engineering, the School of Architecture, the Arts and Letters Pre-Health program, Neuroscience and Behavior, or the combined Arts and Engineering program, the distribution must be:
- 4 units of English
- 4 units of Mathematics - Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Advanced Mathematics (e.g. Pre-calculus, Calculus)
- 2 units of Foreign Language (3-4 units preferred)
- 2 units of Science - Chemistry and Physics (4 units preferred)
- 2 units of History/Social Science (3-4 units preferred)
- 2 units of additional History/Social Science, Science, Foreign Language, Mathematics, and English courses
Although we require at least 16 academic units for admission, our most competitive applicants will have four units in each major academic area and in the most rigorous level their high school offers. We do include algebra and/or foreign language courses completed during eighth grade in our count of admissions requirements. For example, if you earned credit for one full-year introductory French course as an eighth grader, then completed French II in ninth grade, both credits will be counted.
International Academic Guidelines
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Students earning the IB Diploma program are asked to submit their predicted IB marks. In general, students that apply for Notre Dame are enrolled in three higher-level IB courses and three lower-level IB courses.
British Curriculum
Students enrolled in the British curriculum are asked to submit the results of their GCSEs or IGCSEs, as well as their AS levels, and predicted A levels. A student who has completed the GCSEs has already met the course requirement outlined above. After completing their GCSEs, a typical student applying to Notre Dame is enrolled in three A-Level courses.
Standardized tests
Either the SAT or the ACT is required for application to the University of Notre Dame.
If you submit multiple scores, we will superscore the tests for our evaluation. This means we will consider the highest composite score and highest scores on each section, regardless of test date. Note that we do not require the writing portion of the ACT or the SAT.
For first-year applicants seeking fall 2019 enrollment, the final acceptable testing dates for the SAT are:
Restrictive Early Action: November 3, 2018 (must be received by November 30, 2018)
Regular Decision: December 1, 2018 (must be received by January 19, 2019)
For first-year applicants seeking fall 2019 enrollment, the final acceptable testing dates for the ACT are:
Restrictive Early Action: October 27, 2018 (must be received by November 30, 2018)
Regular Decision: February 9, 2019 (must be received by February 28, 2019)
SAT Subject Tests, AP tests, and IB tests are not required and are only used in the application process if scores enhance an application. They may also be used for credit and placement in the First Year of Studies.
Home-schooled applicants
In addition to our standard application requirements, three SAT Subject Tests, one each in History, Foreign Language, and Science, are recommended for home-schooled applicants. Students may choose the exams they wish to take within these subject areas. If a home-schooled student has an AP exam in one of these subject areas, it can substitute for the SAT Subject Test.
If you have any questions about applying as a home-schooled student, feel free to call the Admissions Office at (574) 631-7505.
Extracurricular activities? More like passions.
World-class pianists. Well-rounded senior class leaders. Dedicated artists. Our most competitive applicants are more than just students—they are creative intellectuals, passionate people with multiple interests. Above all else, they are involved—in the classroom, in the community, and in the relentless pursuit of truth.
Letter(s) of evaluation
We require one letter of evaluation from every applicant. You may choose any high school teacher to write your letter, as long as he or she has taught you in a core academic subject area (math, science, English, social science, or foreign language) and knows you well. Your guidance counselor may also complete a counselor evaluation. The counselor evaluation is recommended but not required.
Essay: Reflect, have fun, show us who you really are.
The Essay portion of both the application and the Notre Dame Writing Supplement gives our Admissions Committee the opportunity to get to know you.
Your essays are the most enjoyable part of the application reading process. Why? Because we learn about important decisions you've made, adventures you've survived, lessons you've learned, family traditions you've experienced, challenges you've faced, embarrassing moments you've overcome.
We do not offer an interview as part of the admissions process, so it is through your essays that we are able to hear your voice, learn your sense of humor, empathize with your struggles. We get to know the real you, beyond lists of courses, numbers, and activities.


text:
Year: 1988
Director: Kazuyoshi Katayama
Runtime: 71 min.
Country: Japan
Genre: Anime, Cartoon, Fantasy, Criminal
Actors: Masako Katsuk, Yosisaga Sakaguchi, Toshiko Sawada, Toshio Furukawa, Mayumi Sho, Nobuo Iwamoto, Kumiko Takizawa
By the beginning of 2100 mankind has been almost completely destroyed because of the protracted series of global wars, covering all countries. At this time it was created a huge metropolis, which became the center of a new world. The city's name is very symbolic - Olympus. The main part of the population - this is a new race of Bioroidy apparently they are not distinguished from ordinary citizens, but in fact, this new generation of cloned humans. But this neighborhood is not satisfied with ordinary people who are faced with the superiority everywhere Bioroidy having a developed intellect. Against this background, developing the story of the main characters of the cartoon Appleseed Bariariusa soldiers and his partner Dunant. At Olympus they came by the will of a happy event for the heroes grateful. But when they realize how much is actually due to the appearance of a new race is rotten prosperous city, they decide to join the local rebels to regain power in the hands of true masters of this planet. With the help of this site you can download Appurushido free movie in HD quality.


text:
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text:
Crafty WoodCutouts
I am very excited to announce that I will be joining up with Crafty WoodCutouts team! Haven't heard of Crafty WoodCutouts? Well, it is a small, but rapidly growing wood craft supply company out of Provo, Utah. I can't tell you enough wonderful things about them! I absolutely love their unfinished wood products that allow you to create the perfect craft of your design choosing with ease! If you are a fan of Mod Podging, painting or making all things pretty, then you have to go check them out! The quality of their products is simply amazing!!! Fantastic customer service and outstanding attention to detail! Not to mention, Megan is probably one of the nicest people I have ever talked to on the phone. :) And their prices… WOW! If you haven't heard enough yet, and you still haven't opened another window in your browser to go look, DO IT NOW!!!
Here are a couple of pieces I made using their wood cutouts:
When the wood cutouts come to you, they will be UNFINISHED and look a little something like this:
The sky is the limit from there! Your creativity and craftiness will guide you the rest of the way. "Hold up Dawn," you say. "I ain't got no craftiness or creativity. But I still want something pretty." No need to worry my friend! Crafty WoodCutouts can help. They have a blog right on their website with fantastic tutorials and pictures to guide you every step of the way. Still stumped? I'm always here to help too! I can either help you with ordering products, or help you with creating the craft you invision.
So what are you waiting for! Go check it out! They have something for just about everyone, every holiday and celebration. And tell them Dawn set y'all from way down yonder in Louisiana! :)
See you again soon! Until then... I'm off to The Craftcation Conference in sunny Ventura, California!
Have a happy and safe Easter everyone!
Moss LUCKY Letters
Ahh, I just love this time of year! Spring is in the air, so many holidays but so little time to craft! The story of my life recently. I have been up to my ears in projects for customers and teaching craft classes that I haven't had a moment of time to craft for myself. Well today I said the heck with the household chores. It's time for a little proCRAFTination! The dishes and the laundry… eh, they can wait. This lady needs to craft!
Let me start by saying I am a proud Irish girl!!! In my family, being Irish is celebrated year round, not just the month of March. Some of my greatest memories as a child are with my mother's side of family, (McManus, just a wee bit Irish huh?) and the millions of cousins running around to the sound Peter Yates Irish Folk music playing in the background. With all these happy memories floating around in my head, I just had to make something to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
So I got to work and gathered the supplies I needed:
3D letters, Spanish moss, forest green acrylic paint, paint brush, some accessories, scissors and a hot glue gun.
Paint your letters and let them dry.
Hot glue the moss to the letters. Trim and shape moss to your desired look.
Glue down your accessories for the finishing touches.
And there you have it! Wasn't that easy?
So glad I decided to do a little proCRAFTination today! But as you all know there is always laundry and dishes to be done. Boo. Especially in a house full of boys. Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone! Until next time!
What a Great Week!
What an amazing week it has been! I feel so blessed! Oh my goodness! My Burlap and Pearls project was featured over at Craftionary and at Create, Craft, Love. Oh, and it has been repinned on Pinterest over 2,000 times!!! Ok, ok, ok…, I know I am just a start up blogger and this isn't really a big deal in the great big world of blogging… but this is a HUGE accomplishment for me, and a girl has to start somewhere! I feel like I'm on top of the world!
Ha, ha, ha... so not quite.... but you get the idea!
In other exciting news, I am going to be offering craft classes out of my home. I love crafting and I miss teaching so much…, it was a no brainer to put the two together! My first class is next weekend!
This is the first project we will be making in the adult class:
I loved a project that I saw by Angie over at Burton Avenue.
I was inspired to teach a class based on her design.
I will also be offer a kid's craft class as well.
This is what we will be making on February 23 for that class:
Many new and exciting opportunities are happening for this lady and I am just so darn excited I can barely contain myself!
Craftcation is coming up! Are you going? I AM!!! Haven't heard about it?
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text: High quality multi-adjustable foot peg assembly. No-play double-ball bearing gear and brake lever. Adjustable foot length. Variable peg position. Ergonomic shape. Ultralight. Foot peg assembly for rider only - no pillion passenger! Easy to switch to reverse pattern gear change (up for first gear) for use on the race track - the parts are included! TüV parts approval certificate


text:
My name is Brian Beaumont, and I'm not famous. If I were, I'd most certainly be posting socially for the people who are interested in the one who is Beaumont. Everybody would know about the restaurants Beaumont dines at, the people Beaumont shakes hands with, and they could all read Beaumont's opinion on Toronto drivers and the ravages of salt spread out during winter in this city.
Reading the comments would give them insight into the workings of Beaumont, who Beaumont is, what Beaumont thinks, and they would slowly gain perspective on my direction in this life(of Brian) and the exciting events that lie on the horizon for this one person named Beaumont. Even more insidious, posting back to Beaumont's comments would give the followers of Beaumont a sense of engagement making them even more loyal.
This loyalty would add strength to the Beaumont brand.
So, why are large organizations not benefiting from social media to the same extent as individuals?
If I'm to be a case example, when I read existing media from larger organizations, I do not feel engaged. Instead, I feel like I'm being advertised to. I feel like the communication is a one-way street.
So, as a follower of others, what DOES engage me?
In my free time I'm also very interested in space flight. And sure, I can read every press release, watch every video, and pore over every design schematic from the 1960's. But it feels very distant and cold when compared to the postings of an individual who can offer me the granularity I need to feel directly engaged with the subject matter.
For me, what a famous person had for dinner is akin to the inclination angle of a space launch or "specific impulse" of a proposed rocket engine. We'll only get that information long after the fact, if at all.
Space flight is only one example. It applies to all larger organizations.
Today, an individual who is interested in any company's products or services must wait until the marketing communications of the company reveals them. Consumers currently have no way of becoming involved with design elements of a product or service until it is launched; they have nothing to anticipate, nothing to look forward to. On the flip-side, organizations have no way to benefit from the informal consumer input that is being freely offered by their target demographic.
If loyal brand followers don't feel a part of the process, your organization may quickly lose their loyalty to a competitor. Social integration with your consumers is fast becoming essential; those organizations who adapt quickly will see competitive benefit.
Why is this so difficult for large organizations?
The person with authority to write on behalf of the organization is rarely ever the same person who actually holds the relevant information. Big news gets out, eventually, but the milestones along the way are fruitlessly washed away forever. The communication between those two individuals is disjointed, slow, and error-prone. There has to be a better channel.
This "Content Owner" doesn't and, quite often, shouldn't, have privileges of posting on the company's behalf. There has been no way to control and manage the dissemination of potentially confidential information, libel, or malicious posts by disgruntled staffers. It should be expected that the very same brilliant scientist who can tell the world about 'specific impulse' may well also hold personal opinions that will sink your entire company. There has to be a safeguard.
Collaborative Social CMS platforms, such as CastTHAT, provide this channel and safeguard. The basic premise is to provide an approval workflow between the content and the authority that enables better, faster, and more direct communication.
Additionally, it enables large organizations to extract the latent value from their social intellectual property. Managed information is readily accessible and can be syndicated easily.
For example, information can be used internally such as in a sales enablement source and then reinforced seamlessly through a periodic communication, such as an internal electronic newsletter. Suddenly, your sales teams know everything there is to know: When is it available? What is the value proposition?And where is the relevant collateral?
Externally, that very same information, once approved by management and legal, can then immediately be sent externally to various social media outlets, blog sites, RSS feeds, and external electronic newsletters. Since the information is already warehoused, this can all happen in minutes with the click of a mouse.
Imagine a manufacturing company launching a new product. With CastTHAT, multiple individuals can submit information about that product such as part drawings, specifications, and photographs. And then, that information will remain housed within the content management system for active use within any and all internal and external media.
CastTHAT's minimally-invasive architecture allows an administrator to log in to a wealth of information. Review it, adjust it if needed, and approve it for distribution while still maintaining the integrity of the original content.
Through all this, the original story has only been written once. There is zero duplication of labor, and minimized opportunity for reproduction errors. And, maintaining authorship means that correspondence with the knowledge holder is still possible.
This trend towards social media is not a fad. Organizations, large and small, that embrace it will have a distinct advantage holding existing consumers, and attracting new ones. Social CMS platforms enable organizations to tap into this vast social resource. Imagine the state of your organization if each individual within it became just a little famous!


text:
Neil Redfearn insists his Leeds United players remain firmly focused on their football, despite talks that Formula One giants Red Bull are looking to invest into the club.
Current majority stakeholder, Massimo Cellino has denied claims that he is ready to sell, but it is understood that meetings took place last Thursday between the club and representatives of the energy drinks.
It is just the latest of many off-the-field stories to come out of Elland Road in the last few weeks following the dismissal of Darko Milanic, who saw his 32-day reign as Leeds manager end at the start of November.
But his replacement Redfearn, who welcomes his former club Charlton Athletic tomorrow, is adamant that him and his players are not getting distracted.
"To be honest, it is what it is," Redfearn told the Yorkshire Evening Post. "But from the playing point of view, it is about what we do, day to day, on the training ground and how we work.
- Redfearn agrees to be Leeds United manager
- Leeds United sack Darko Milanic after six games
- Darko Milanic claims he could make Leeds return
"Nothing has changed at Thorp Arch (Leeds United training ground). Nothing has changed in the fact that on Tuesday and on Saturday, we have got a game."
The 49-year-old, who's on a 12 month contract with the option of a further 12 months, says talks regarding the introduction of a number two are still ongoing and will be sorted 'in due course'.
Huddersfield Town assistant-manager Steve Thompson has recently been linked with the post. Thompson and Redfearn used to play together at Bolton Wanderers in their early days.
The Leeds manager has also confirmed on-loan Brazilian midfielder Adryan could feature tomorrow after missing the 3-1 weekend defeat against Cardiff with a groin strain, but Billy Sharp and Rudolph Austin have been ruled out.


text:
Last updated 20030107 by editors
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