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It is possible for almost anyone to get into property investing in the UK right now. Because I have, over many years, developed and taught a variety strategies, there will likely be one that is right for every situation.
(PRWEB) December 31, 2013
Figures published in the Daily Mail recently showed that the number of rented households in Britain has risen, in the past 10 years, from 1.9 million to 3.6 million. But rather than accept the label 'generation renter,' real estate authority Rick Otton is urging aspiring home owners to embrace innovative strategies to achieve their goals.
"There are many contributing factors for people's challenges with home ownership," said Mr Otton. "One is the inability to save for a deposit in an economic climate that sees cost of living pressures impact so much on income. Every day I see people who are juggling rent, transport, food, child care and lifestyle expenses. For most, there is no way that they can put anything aside as savings for a deposit."
Another, somewhat different, rental demographic, is that of the cashed up older person. Many of these have sold their homes and have chosen to free up the proceeds to enjoy a better lifestyle - for themselves and their families.
"This group sees little value in having all of their money tied up in their homes, and as a result having little ready cash available. They are asset-rich and cash-poor," explained Mr Otton.
"These two sectors of population see property ownership in very different ways, but for both, I can offer strategies that will see them achieve their goals, without the prospect of paying dead money in rent each month."
Mr Otton teaches strategies that eschew the traditional deposit-bank-mortgage model and instead embrace the concept of 'problem solving' - helping people who need to sell to connect with those who want to buy.
"Over the last 20 years I have built a considerable property portfolio in different countries around the world, and I do this by looking at the needs of individuals," he explained. "It is possible for almost anyone to get into property investing in the UK right now. Because I have, over many years, developed and taught a variety strategies, there will likely be one that is right for every situation."
"I am inviting those interested in getting out of the rental cycle and leaving the 'generation renter' behind, to download the Free Report at http://www.rickotton.co.uk/freereport/ - with my compliments."
Details about Rick Otton's strategies for real estate investing can be found at http://www.RickOtton.co.uk or phone enquiries can be made (in the UK) to 0207 000 1027.
About Rick Otton
Rick Otton is a property investment professional who, over the last 23 years, has introduced innovative real estate strategies to the UK, Australian and the United States. His creative 'low-risk, high-reward' approach to buying and selling houses is exemplified in his own business, We Buy Houses.
This year marks the 10 year anniversary of Mr Otton introducing his strategies to the UK, and the 5 year anniversary of his innovative 'Buy A House For A Pound' process - one that attempted to be emulated by others. His constant process of strategy refinement, and adapting to the ever-changing real estate market, continues to place him at the forefront of property investment education.
In 2012 Rick Otton published his Australian book 'How To Buy A House For A Dollar' which was named in the list of Top 10 Most Popular Finance Titles for 2013. A UK version is on the drawing board for publication in 2014.
Mr Otton freely shares insights into his non-bank-loan strategies that have allowed everyday UK men and women to beat the rental cycle and have their own homes. He coaches others on how to build profitable businesses by facilitating transactions that focus on the needs of potential buyers and motivated sellers.
Access his Free Report at http://www.rickotton.co.uk/freereport/, as are the details of early bird pricing for his next UK 3-day real estate training conference in March 2014. Phone enquiries in the UK are welcome on 0207 000 1027.


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Unless you play poker, and poker online, you probably have no idea what I'm talking about. Let me explain. If you play poker online for real money, and you win, along with winning money, you accumulate what are called "Frequent Player Points" or FPP's. The term Frequent Player Points is unique to the poker site PokerStars.com but the same concept applies to all poker sites wherever you play. -> The more you win the more FPP's you earn. And when you lose, well you just don't earn anything, and you usually get pissed off.
Not Easy to Come By
So how are they alike? First of all, FPP's aren't all that easy to come by. Just to give you an idea: winning a $10 buy in, 180 person sit-n-go tournament wins you a cash prize of $594, but you're only awarded 5 FPP's. While a $10 buy in isn't exactly high limit, it still takes some skill to play in a tourney thats 180 people deep, and you certainly aren't going to win on luck. Also, even with a sit-n-go, which tends to move pretty fast, it's still going to take 2 or 3 hours to win the thing. Even just to break even you have to place in the top 18, which still requires a fair amount of skill and time. Fortunately at a $10 buy in, the $594 first prize makes it worth playing, but you certainly aren't playing for the FPP's.
Much like blogging and comments. Anyone who has a blog knows that getting lots of comments isn't something that comes easily. And you certainly aren't going to "win" comments on luck. Comments are something that come by building your skills, understanding how to write compelling and relevant content, and with lots of practice.
They Only Retain Value When You Have Lots
Well here's the thing, FPP's don't really mean all that much. Well, not at first anyway.. They have some monetary value but its very small. In fact here is a breakdown of the monetary value that they assign to FPP's. On the low end it works out to about $1 for every 100 FPP's you accumulate, and the exchange rate gets better the more you have. Someone like me, who only has in the ballpark of 1,500 FPP's can't do much with them. I've used some to buy into other tournaments, but mostly they just sit there until I can start accumulating a significant amount. (Read: TURN PRO) However, if you're a baller like my friend Bobby, you can actually start doing something with your FPP's. Bobby has somewhere close to a million FPP's, if not over a million at this point, which means not only could he trade them in for some serious cash, but it makes him one of the top ranked players online. As you can imagine, being one of the top ranked players online does great things for your reputation and your career as a poker player.
Again, similar to blogging and blog comments. Comments on a blog are a dime a dozen when when you have very few. Anyone can start a blog and get a few comments here and there.. No one thinks anything of it. But as you start to build out your content and readership, people start to leave more and more comments. And much like FPP's, when you have a crapload of comments – it means something, and in a way they're a form of currency. Lot's of comments usually denotes good & authoritative content, which increases reputation – etc etc.
So How do You Get More?
Well, sticking to the analogy, when you play poker, you play to win. Cash. And the FPP's just come naturally. The same with blogging, you don't write a blog post to get comments. Bloggers blog for all sorts of reasons, getting comments isn't one of them. It's not why you do it, but how you do it that will bring more comments/readership/links/etc.
Now I just need to make sure this post gets a few comments right?

subset: commoncrawl


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ANCHORAGE — The snow is piled so high that drivers cannot see around corners. Homeowners are getting worried their roofs can't handle the load. And snow-removal crews are running up overtime hours.
Even by Alaska's prodigious standards, this is a remarkably snowy winter.
In one of the strangest winters across America in many years, Alaska's biggest city has already gotten more snow -- more than 74 inches -- than it normally receives in an entire winter (68 inches). And four more months of snowy weather are expected. The Anchorage snowfall record, set in the winter of 1955-56, is 132.5 inches.
"Winter wins. Snow wins. Now can we see the sun again?" Beth Bragg wrote in her Friday column in the Anchorage Daily News. "Twice already I've hired someone to shovel my roof. Both times I waited until water leaked into the house."
The robust snowfall comes after several years of low-snow winters in proudly rugged Alaska, and so it is welcome news to some.


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Prof Steve Jones considers the consequences of human rights for chimps
David Hammerstein is a Spanish Green who supports a Bill to accord rights to chimpanzees on the grounds that "their social and emotional needs are at the same level as handicapped people, small children, or the elderly and mentally impaired".Jones goes on to note the main argument of the other side is that 98 percent of the DNA of chimps and humans is identical.
That strikes me as a dangerous argument if applied in reverse and, although some of my best friends are primates, it is also entirely arbitrary. If chimps have rights, why not gorillas; if gorillas, why not monkeys; and if monkeys, why not mice or mynah birds? Certainly, all those creatures deserve respect - but where do we draw the line?
Of course where DNA is concerned, 2 percent can make a huge difference.
...the DNA responsible for powerful muscle proteins is also out of action in humans compared with chimps (to wrestle with our closest relative, whatever its rights, is always a mistake). A tea party organised by those African primates might also prove a risky experience, for they have a whole series of enzymes that detoxify poisons and allow them to eat plants that would be fatal to humans.Personally, I've always thought that chimps aren't very much like people. But there are some people who are very much like chimps.
In addition we are, compared with them, creatures of regrettably poor taste, for a whole series of DNA segments involved in gustatory experience have rusted away in Homo sapiens but survive in chimps. We smell, by the way, even worse.
It's like that old Bing Crosby chestnut says: All the monkeys aren't in a zoo. Everyday you meet quite a few.
tagged: monkey, chimpanzee, chimp, human rights, DNA, genetics, Karl Pilkington


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BTV Solo is the music production software that will teach users how to produce music quickly. Is it useful?
(PRWEB) December 17, 2013
BTV Solo is the latest music production software that reveals awesome techniques and systematic training videos that can help learners produce music. The program is created by a team that has several years of music experience. This helpful music creation software gives people the full support from many professional producers. In addition, this software helps users improve their music playing skills by upgrading features and adding new sounds. After the author released BTV Solo, they have received positive feedback from learners. Therefore, the website hynguyenblog.com decided to write an overview of this program.
A full BTV Solo overview on the site hynguyenblog.com shows that this is the effective music production software that shows music makers how to produce music quickly and successfully. Initially, this program may look like any other beat making programs that are available on the market, but people will not feel the same way after they use it. In fact, this helpful program will outshine other beat making programs on the market. Moreover, it is suitable for hobbyists of all levels, from newbie to advanced. BTV Solo comes with a modern and smooth interface that is intuitive to newcomers. The useful software offers video tutorials in case learners are not familiar with it. In other words, this awesome software has a large range of electronic sound kits, which can be used for any kind of purpose to help users in creating unique tunes or beats.
Johnson Han from the site hynguyenblog.com states that: "BTV Solo is an effective course that shows music makers how to compose music fast. The useful music creation software includes a variety of sounds, so learners can produce any style of music. Whether users are interested in Dance, R&B, Hip Hop, Pop or other genres of music, they can use this software to get the style of sounds that they are looking for. If viewers wish to start produce awesome music, they can get started with the BTV Solo program today."
If people wish to know advantages and disadvantages from BTV Solo, they could visit the website.
For those that wish to view more information about BTV Solo, get instant access to the official site.
About the website: hynguyenblog.com is the site found by Nguyen Gia Hy. The website provides people with many solutions, techniques, tips, programs and e-book about health & fitness, arts, business, and much more. People can send comments to Nguyen Gia Hy via his email.


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4 Steps To Get A Fast Cash Loans With No Credit Check
If you find yourself in a financial emergency then you will need a way to get cash to cover it. If you are reading this then chances are high that you probably have a low credit score and getting money the traditional way is probably out of the question. So with that in mind let's look at the steps you can take to get a loan that will not require a credit check.
What You Will Need
- Employment for at least the last 90 days
- Checking account that is at least 90 days old
- Personal identification
cash loans without a bank account, cash loans for unemployed, cash loans now,
Step #1 - Apply Online
Apply online using a fast cash loan company. Once you apply for money you will have to wait at least 24 hours before the money will be deposited into your bank account. A representative from the loan company may need to call you if they need any additional information.
Step #2 - Decide On The Amount
When you apply for a fast cash loans with no credit check you may borrow as little as $300 or up to $1,500.
Step #3 - Determine The Repayment Period
Most of these type of loans have to be repaid in one pay period. You will find companies that allow you to spread out your payments from 90 to 180 days. Before you apply find out when the loan company wants their money to be repaid. The money is usually taken out of the checking account that they deposited the money into.
Step #4 - Be Aware Of The Contract
Make sure you understand what you are agreeing to in the contract. These type of loans can come with some hefty interest rates so understand fully what you are entering into. The biggest question is, "Will you be able to pay the money you borrowed plus interest back on the promised date without issue?"
Once you repay the money you can reapply for another loan. There is no limit on how many loans with no credit check you can apply for. The loan companies know that individuals have emergencies and need cash immediately. The good thing about getting a loan is that no collateral is needed. The company that is lending you the money is confident because they know that they will get their money back since you have a checking account.
You can use fast cash loans with no credit check to resolve any financial emergency that you have. The fast cash loan company will not ask why you need the money. As long as you agree to repay the money back the company doesn't care how you spend it.
You can begin the process of receiving a fast cash loan by applying online. The process will only take a few minutes. In 24 hours or less the money will be deposited into your account. If you happen to run into a problem while applying online you can contact a representative who will be able to answer your questions. You can also check out the frequently asked questions page.
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Welcome to the Book Blast for Spring Break by LC KanonSpring Break vacation is fun for most college kids but it turns out to be horror for the girls in this book. Find out how their Spring Break trip has gone wild and enter to win a $100 Amazon gift card from the author!
Spring Break
An all-expenses paid trip to Cancun for spring break? It wasn't exactly a hard sell for Leigh, Eva, Gia and Joy, frenemies from Arizona Southern University. But all is not well in the land of silver or lead. Soon after arriving, Leigh and the girls stumble upon some cartel carnage—a bloodbath of debauchery that makes even their wildest desert party seem tame.
Instead of doing the proper thing, like contacting the authorities, the girls go down the rabbit hole in this tale of lies, bloodshed and other dangerous acts. It's all fun and games until they make the acquaintance of Guero, a cartel kingpin who is none too pleased with their newfound lust for blood money.
These perky coeds aren't on campus anymore, and after Guero lets them know just how serious he is, they make a run for the border no one will ever forget.
Buy on Amazon
Follow LC Kanon
Website * Twitter * Facebook * Author Page on Amazon:
One lucky winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card!
Giveaway ends 11/4. Open worldwide. Please enter via the Rafflecopter below. Click here if you have trouble loading the widget. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow the Tour
Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for prize fulfillment.


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Jumat, 20 Januari 2017
Daftar Ucapan Selamat Pernikahan Lengkap
Ucapan Selamat Pernikahan Lengkap - Then maybe leadership just suits you fine. Some people believe that great leaders are made, not born. Yes, it may be true that some people are born with natural talents. However, without practice, without drive, without enthusiasm, and without experience, there can be no true development in leadership. You must also remember that good leaders are continually working and studying to improve their natural skills. This takes a commitment to constantly improve in whatever endeavor a person chooses. First of all, lets define leadership. To be a leader, one must be able to influence others to accomplish a goal, or an objective. He contributes to the organization and cohesion of a group. Contrary to what Ucapan Selamat Pernikahan most people believe, leadership is not about power. It is not about harassing people or driving them using fear. It is about encouraging others towards the goal of the organization. It is putting everyone on the same page and helping them see the big picture of the organization. You must be a leader not a boss. First of all, you have to get people to follow you. How is this accomplished? People follow others when they see a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going. Remember that bumper sticker? The one that says, dont follow me, Im lost too? The same holds true for leadership. If you yourself do not know where youre headed to, chances are people will not follow you at all. You yourself must know the vision of the organization. Having a clear sense of hierarchy, knowing who the bosses are, who to talk to, the organizations goals and objectives, and how the organization works is the only way to show others you know what you are doing. Being a leader is not about what you make others do. Its about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of what youre subordinates must be. Studies have shown that one other Ucapan Selamat Pernikahan bases of good leadership is the trust and confidence your subordinates have of you. If they trust you they will go through hell and high water for you and for the organization. Trust and confidence is built on good relationships, trustworthiness, and high ethics. The way you deal with your people, and the relationships you build will lay the foundation for the strength of your group. The stronger your relationship, the stronger their trust and confidence is in your capabilities. Once you have their trust and confidence, you may now proceed to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake. Communication is a very important key to good leadership. Without this you can not be a good leader. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly imparted to other people. Also, you can not be a good leader and unless you have good judgment. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and actively seek out a solution. It is this judgment that your subordinates will come to rely upon. Therefore, good decisionmaking is vital to the success of your organization. Leaders are not doitall heroes. You should not claim to know everything, and you should not rely upon your skills alone. You should recognize and take advantage of the skills and talents your subordinates have. Only when you come to this realization will you be able to work as one cohesive unit. Remember being a leader takes a Ucapan Selamat Pernikahan good deal of work and time. It is not learned overnight. Remember, also, that it is not about just you. It is about you and the people around you. So, do you have the drive and the desire to serve required of leaders? Do you have the desire to work cooperatively with other people? Then start now.
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Menya Musashi Samurai Ramen - Isetan Eat Paradise
2nd Floor, Isetan Eat Paradise
Isetan Bandar Utama City Centre
Opens 11am onwards
Isetan Bandar Utama City Centre
Opens 11am onwards
Went to this ramen restaurant at 1u Isetan. A bit different with the usual ramen shop. Once you get in, you gotta order and pay first before you get your seat.
I dont really remember the whole menu. Basically they just serve pork belly ramen. you can choose soup or dry. For soup you have 3 types of soup. and choose your portion with how many pork belly. For dry you can only choose portion.
How you eat :D
U can add more if u need
I had the spicy one, with one pork belly and egg
The egg is AWESOME
Dry one. they put the sauce seperately. See the pork? Awwww !


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From the BLURB:
One night in the rain, Ethan Wate opened his eyes and fell in love with Lena Duchannes. His life would never be the same.
Lena is a Caster and her family is locked in a supernatural civil war: full of darkness and demons. On her sixteenth birthday Lena made a terrifying choice, which now haunts her day and night.
And as her seventeenth birthday approaches Lena and Ethan face even greater danger. A Caster and a Mortal can never truly be together.
Ethan's next heartbeat could be his last.
It is their curse now . . .
'Beautiful Darkness' is the second book in Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl's young adult paranormal series 'Caster Chronicles'.
'Darkness' picks up where 'Beautiful Creatures' left off. Caster-girl, Lena Duchannes, was caught in the middle of a civil war between light and dark. Her beloved uncle, Macon Ravenwood, was on the side of light. While her witch mother, Sarafine, was trying to convince her estranged daughter to choose the darkness. . . Lena always thought that her seventeenth birthday would be black and white; a battle between good and evil that was preordained and set in stone. Lena never expected to have a choice. . . nor did she expect her uncle to die trying to save her or that being a light Caster would mean her and her human boyfriend, Ethan Wate, couldn't be together. Turns out, fate is a fickle friend.
I loved first book 'Beautiful Creatures' and the follow-up is just as superb.
The 'Caster Chronicles' is epic and paranormal, with the crux of the story being Lena and Ethan's impossible romance. Lena is a Caster witch, and Ethan is the human boy who loves her. It's a quite simple story, until you throw in a power-play for Lena's soul and the prejudicial town backdrop.
The series is set in the Deep South middle-of-nowhere town Gatlin County. A main focus of the series is Lena's Caster family as they live amidst Gatlin's small-minded and prejudicial townsfolk. 'Beautiful Creatures' focused on Lena's upcoming seventeenth birthday and her dilemma between dark and light, exacerbated by high school clique politics. By contrast, 'Beautiful Darkness' is a more introverted book. Yes, the town prejudice is still there and fiery as ever. But Garcia and Stohl have written more focus on the characters inner turmoils, as opposed to the outside pressures of town bigotry. When 'Darkness' begins, Lena is in a bad mental state. Her uncle is dead; the man who was her surrogate mother, father and dear friend, and Lena is weighted down by guilt for his sacrifice. Ethan is just as weighted by Lena's depression – he loves her and wants to help, but Lena's bleak mentality is a barrier that not even Ethan can breach.
Lena wasn't coming out of it. She wasn't coming back to herself or to me. If anything, she was drifting farther away from me than anyone else. More and more, I couldn't reach her, not on the inside, not with Kelting or kissing or any of the other complicated or uncomplicated ways we used to touch. now when I took her hand, all I could feel was the chill.At the same time, Lena still has a choice between light and dark. . . and as each day passes and her mentality grows bleaker, Lena seems more and more determined to succumb to the darkness. And encouraging Lena's dark side is her Siren cousin, Ridley, and a mysterious Caster Incubus called John Breed.
'Beautiful Creatures' was a wonderful first book. It was a grandiose battle between good and evil, melding past and present with an overarching story of defeating fate. 'Beautiful Darkness' is still about the grand battle between light and dark, but I really loved the introspection of this second book. Garcia and Stohl have written Lena's sink into depression with such tenderness and finesse. And it's not just Lena's darkening perceptions that made for thoughtful reading; rather it was Ethan's coping with her mental state. I think this is a subject a lot of younger readers can relate to – both the feelings of despair, but also being a friend to someone who is suffering from depression. Garcia and Stohl never lose their characters amidst the extravagant paranormal plots; the book kept coming back to these two very relatable teenage characters and their struggles.
Then there's the fact that Lena and Ethan are struggling to maintain their romance. Lena is tempted by dark Caster John Breed. While Ethan is making connections with Liv, an English student temping at the Caster library. This is another very human problem that balances the paranormal extravagance beautifully;
. . .All I know is that it shouldn't be so hard. Loving someone shouldn't be so hard.But for all of the emotional turmoil in the book, there is still heavy emphasis on the paranormal side of things. I don't want to give too much away, but in 'Darkness' Garcia and Stohl throw curve-balls left right and centre. Plot twists concerning Macon Ravenwood and Ethan's mother. Ethan's role in the Caster society. And how committed Ridley is to the dark side. . . and amidst all of these grandiose supernatural storylines is Lena, still choosing between light and dark, turning her green eyes gold;
Lena shook her head, watching as he wrote. "No. I don't belong there anymore. I would've ended up hurting them. I hurt everyone who loves me."Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl have a beautiful series premise with the 'Caster Chronicles'. Their books are about the decisions between good and evil, the light and dark within us and not letting fate dictate one's life. And amidst all these paranormal premises is a supernatural girl, in love with a human boy. I love this series, two books deep and I am completely hooked. I can't wait for book #3, due out Fall 2011.


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Slammy Awards
Tonight is the three-hour WWE Slammy Awards, the annual award show that celebrates the stand-out talents and events of the year.
Sometimes the winners are obvious, other times they appear to serve a greater purpose. Here's my personal winners in some categories the WWE has, others, well, I made up...
Diva of the Year: Michelle McCool. It's the Peyton Manning effect-- ever since she left, the Divas division has been hurting. Sure, Beth and Natalya are trying, but everything around them just seems to be dead of spirit.
OMG Moment: Kharma announcing she was pregnant. After watching wrestling as long as I have and simply picking up rumors here and there, it's easy to predict the scenarios the writers will present to us. Unfortunately for the Divas, this moment wasn't scripted, and it shocked me. Her speech moved me. And, I cannot wait for her return.The Fast Forward Award: Mark Henry. Not only is Mark Henry the "World's Strongest Man," but he is also the world's most boring man. Let's put it this way, if I don't start Smackdown late so I can fast forward through his segments, I usually find myself asleep on the couch with Henry being the last thing I remember...
Best Storyline: CM Punk v. WWE. CM Punk's contract was up, and coincidentally, he was scheduled to battle for the WWE Championship on his last day. On his way out, he, um, criticized the McMahons in the most extreme monologue ever. Of course, he won, and did his best to rub it in the face of the WWE on Twitter and even ComicCon. He eventually made a deal to come back, just in time to main event at SummerSlam. It was the Summer of Punk, and the summer that made events that happened outside of the ring, especially Twitter, just as important as what happens in the ring.
Superstar of the Year: Zack Ryder. This man went from obscurity to viral over the year, building his own name and character. He could have waited for creative to have something for him, simultaneously waiting for the "future endeavor" line. Instead, he posted videos, in a Long Island stereotype (a much better play on the Jersey Shore personalities than the literal, although humorous, representations on TNA) It was a long climb, but he is finally getting major amounts of airtime on both Raw and Smackdown.What award would you give?


text: The Twilleys of Stamford design and yarn collection is at the forefront of modern elegant style while using the finest of pure natural fibres and materials in its yarns such as silk, Alpaca, fine Merino wool, pure organic cotton and natural bamboo. Part of Thomas B. Ramsden and Company, a family business that has a proud history stretching back over 120 years. Originally founded in Bradford and Wakefield the company is now based in Guiseley on the north side of Leeds.


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Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Ode to San Antonio
I've decided one of my favorite cities is San Antonio, Texas. In fact, I'm in the land of the Alamo as I write this. It's one of those places I like to return to again and again and think I'd like to live at some point. So, I thought today I'd give you a list of the top eight reasons why I like San Antonio, then invite you all to share the name of a favorite town or city and some of the reasons it draws you back again and again. You never know, you might convince one or more of the traveling Banditas to visit it too.
8. It's warm. Sure, it's really hot in the summer, but it's so nice here during times of the year when I'm bundled in layers of fleece at home.
7. Live oaks. I'd love to have some of these gnarly, cool trees in my yard.
6. Taco Cabana. I like Taco Bell fine, but Taco Cabana is several steps above for Mexican fast food.
5. History. The Alamo and the Mission Trail allow you to visit several old Spanish missionsl. It's an aspect of American history that I wasn't exposed to a lot, and I find it fascinating. That's the archway to San Jose Mission (circa 1720) to the right.
4. Day trips. There are lots of fun places to go on day trips from San Antonio. I've been through parts of the lovely Texas Hill Country before. Yesterday, I got to visit cute, historic and artsy Gruene (pronounced Green), home to The Gristmill River Restaurant, housed in an 1870s cotton gin on the Guadalupe River, and Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas. Gruene claims it's been "gently resisting change since 1872," and the town is on the National Register of Historic Places.
3. Biscuits and gravy at the Guenther House. Oh. My. God. These are the best biscuits I've ever put in my mouth, and I have to go there for breakfast every time I'm in San Antonio.
2. The Riverwalk. This is what makes the city's downtown so unique. Visiting the shops and eating in a restaurant overlooking the Riverwalk are musts for any first-timers (or returning visitors) to San Antonio.
1. Visiting my friend Mary. Tonight, she and I had a joint book signing at a local Barnes & Noble, a fun event at which we both sold several books. Yay! Our roads to publication have been so similar, we are so similar. It seemed only fitting that we would have a signing together since both of our debuts have firefighter characters and were released the same week.
So now it's your turn. What is one of your favorite towns or cities? Why do you like it so much? Do you revisit favorite restaurants, sites, etc., each time you visit, or do you try to explore new aspects of the locale? Or a mixture of both? Go ahead, convince me and the other Banditas that it's one of the best places in the world to visit.
Happy travels!
58 comments:
- jo robertson said...
Great post, Trish. My two favorite towns in all the world lie on opposite coasts -- San Francisco and Washington DC. In both there are so many things to see and do. Plus each has an atmosphere of excitement about it.
San Francisco, of course, has lovely weather nearly year round. Washington is especially lovely during the Cherry Blossom Season, plus it's rife with chill-producing history.
- October 15, 2008 at 12:55 AM
- jo robertson said...
Whooooopt! He's mine, all mine, I tell you! I think I might take the chook out for lunch with Aunty Cindy tomorrow. What do you say, AC?
- October 15, 2008 at 12:55 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Jo, I like both of those cities too. I really fell in love with this San Fran area this summer when I was there for RWA. I've been to D.C. several times, but never during the cherry blossoms. I know they're lovely though.
- October 15, 2008 at 12:58 AM
- Natalie Hatch said...
I love Melbournes quirky little alley ways that are crammed full of cafes and exclusive shops. (though I don't like the weather)
I love Brisbane for the weather and the good restaurants/factory seconds shops that are around.
Congrats on the chook Jo, he's probably tired from the spin class, go easy on him.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:05 AM
- flchen1 said...
Hi, Trish! Haven't visited San Antonio, but have always wanted to! Now I've got more reasons :)
I do love SF, too--it's a great city! Cities I'd love to visit again include New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Beijing. Most of them are very pedestrian friendly (Beijing was slightly less than the others, at least when we last were there--it's probably changed a TON since then) and have great food :)
Congrats on the GR, Jo! Enjoy lunch! ;)
- October 15, 2008 at 1:12 AM
- Jane said...
Congrats on the GR, Jo.
Great pics, Trish. I love San Francisco, too. It's such a beautiful and fun city. Las Vegas, Chicago and Hong Kong are also some of my favorite destinations. Each offers great food and shopping.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:19 AM
- Tawny said...
Ooooh I love that picture of you and Mary!! That is so amazingly awesome that you were able to do a signing together :-)
Lessee... fave town. Las Vegas. Fun, bright, exciting. I love it there. There is always stuff to do, always things to see and I don't even gamble.
ROFL and congrats, Jo. Treat that bird well, I think he was spinning today and might be a little sore.
- October 15, 2008 at 2:01 AM
- Keira Soleore said...
Trish, I love your travel posts. I'm going to be back later in the day with more detail on the questions you asked. I was up hoping to nab Mr. GR, but Jo got in ahead of me. Good snatch there, Jo. G'nite all. Will be back early afternoon.
- October 15, 2008 at 2:04 AM
- Anna Campbell said...
Congratulations, Jo! I hope the GR minds his manners if you're taking him out in public. Tell AC to take her crop to keep him in line!
Keira, sleep tight!
Trish, what a lovely post. San Antonio sounds great. I saw a couple of the old missions when I was in SF this year - Carmel and Sonoma. They're amazingly atmospheric, aren't they? Ran out of time so missed out on the one in SF itself. Would love to do some more travelling in the States and your posts always inspire me.
Favorite cities? Oh, man, so many! I love Sydney and Melbourne. They're so different. Sydney is bright and fast-moving and Melbourne has this wonderful European touch with its cafes and culture. I love Venice and Rome. I love Cordoba and Granada. A couple of places in France - Bayeux, Dinan and Sarlat although I think all would count as towns rather than cities. Vienna for the music. Salzburg because it's just so darn beautiful, not to mention full of kitsch Mozart souvenirs. London. New York. Edinburgh. Glasgow. York - perhaps I should call that Old York! Bath. Wells. Cambridge. Oh, dear, I'm getting itchy feet putting this list together!
- October 15, 2008 at 2:11 AM
- jo robertson said...
Natalie, Melbourne sounds lovely.
We'll take it easy on the rooster, maybe treat him to a nice pina colada!
- October 15, 2008 at 2:39 AM
- limecello said...
I've always wanted to go to San Antonio... I like DC a lot. And Boston. And NYC. And... Taipei. :P
I seem to have a thing for big cities. Oh and Chicago.
I'm going to Seattle for the first time in about a month, so hopefully I'll have some time to play tourist :D
- October 15, 2008 at 2:44 AM
- Helen said...
Congrats Jo
I love the sound of San Antonio Trish I would love to go there.
I too like Melbourne although I have only been there once a long time ago I have also visited Adelaide the city of churches beautiful city great shops and of course lovely churches and yes Brisbane is also very nice, but a place I love to visit often is Katoomba in the Blue Mountains here in NSW it has the most wonderful bush walks and The Three Sisters a group of mountains I would recomend a visit there if ever anyone comes to NSW it is only about an hours drive from my place.
Have Fun
- October 15, 2008 at 5:04 AM
- Annie West said...
Lovely post. I remember years ago watching an old, old movie about the Alamo. That's all I know about the place!
Fave place? Impossible. Sorry, just to many and it varies depending on my mood. Right now I'm looking forward to Sydney in a couple of weeks. Am catching up with Anna C to do a library talk together but so much more. Like a Monet exhibition and of course the harbour. You can't go past Sydney Harbour. Especially as I have plans for a beaut lunch on the edge of the water.
Otherwise? Istanbul - great sights, people, shopping and cherry juice, and wonderful food. The Blue Mtns of Australia - spectacular, especially in spring or autumn. Salzburg (I'll be there this Christmas and I'm going on a sleigh ride, need I say more?). Bath, Rhodes, Venice, Canberra, Edinburgh and lots of little towns in Germany. Is that enough to be going on with?
- October 15, 2008 at 5:06 AM
- MaryF said...
Wow, you were busy after I went to bed ;)
I loved being able to have the booksigning with you!!!
My favorite city - New York, baby!
- October 15, 2008 at 6:29 AM
- Terry Odell said...
We just got back from Washington State (pictures on my blog!) and I LOVE the Pacific northwest. I'm SO sick of Florida. We're hoping to retire to that part of the country -- eventually. Meanwhile, I'm still running the a/c.
- October 15, 2008 at 8:43 AM
- Louisa Cornell said...
Great snatch of the GR, Jo! He will love lunching with you and Aunty Cindy, but I agree with La Campbell - AC needs to bring the crop!
Trish, San Antonio sounds beautiful. Definitely going on the list of places to see.
Annie, I so envy you your trip to Salzburg, especially at Christmas. Be sure to visit the Cristkind Markt in the square. Lots of stalls with all sorts of handcrafts - many by artisans that have passed their skills on from generation to generation. Salzburg is definitely one of my favorite places in the world! The history, the music, the food and the quaintness of the old city.
Amsterdam is a favorite too. So many museums and small out of the way things to see - the Rembrandt House, the Anne Frank House, the Holocaust museum, the opera house, the opera costume museum, the Van Gogh museum, the canals and THE CHOCOLATE!
Of course I love London, Bath and Edinburgh for the history and the atmosphere.
In the States it would have to be New Orleans, cher! St. Louis Cathedral, the Audubon Zoo, the Aquarium, the Riverwalk Mall, the beautiful homes in the Garden District and the French Quarter and of course Bourbon Street. A Po-Boy at Poor Richards! YUM The music, the history, the voodoo shops - cant beat it.
Savannah ! The gorgeous homes, the history (pirates central, ladies) the cafes on the riverfront. The atmosphere, the slow life-style, and again THE FOOD!
Hmm. I sense a theme here. Do I eat to travel or travel to eat!
San Francisco became one of my favorites after this summer. The weather was gorgeous, the city was beautiful and you couldn't beat the company - all those romance writers and I got to meet the Banditas!!
- October 15, 2008 at 9:34 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Natalie, both Melbourne and Brisbane sound great. Of course, for someone who hasn't been to Australia, it all sounds wonderfully exotic.
flchen1, I've only been to San Fran and NYC on your list and have enjoyed them both times I've been. Don't think I could live in NYC, being used to more open space, but it's fun to visit. San Fran -- I could live there, particularly Marin County. Only problem is how much moolah it takes to live there.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:04 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Jane, I've only been "to" Chicago once. Been through it a few times. But when we went, I really enjoyed the Field Museum, which is all we had time to see. Of course, I have to visit there when it's warm, because it's dreadfully cold in the winter.
Tawny, the signing was great fun. I really enjoyed Mary's book, so it's easy to pimp it. :) Las Vegas is getting a lot of love on the lists of favorite cities, so I need to get there one of these days.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:13 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Anna, wow, you're quite the world traveler. All those places sound wonderful. I didn't get to see the California missions this summer, but I do love the ones here in San Antonio. They're so much older than any historic buildings we have at home. I love the stories behind them, the culture, the "feel" as you walk through them.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:15 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
limecello, I think you'll like Seattle. My sister used to live in Tacoma, so we went into Seattle once when I visited. Tacoma is also nice as well -- the refurbished downtown, the waterfront, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.
Boston is one of those cities I've not been to yet but would like to visit because of the history. I love visiting places rich in U.S. history.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:18 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Helen, Australia sounds wonderful. I have a friend who lives in or near Adelaide. The whole area sounds lovely.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:21 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Annie, your list sounds fabulous as well. And your upcoming Christmas trip sounds magical.
Yeah, the Alamo is what people equate with San Antonio. True, it is really neat to visit, but it's usually very crowded. It's actually one of five missions that are included in San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (aka the Mission Trail). The others include San Jose, San Juan Capistrano, Concepcion, and Espada -- all constructed between 1718 (the Alamo) and 1731 (Espada). You can see them at:
- October 15, 2008 at 10:26 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Oh, look, hostess with the mostest Mary posted this morning while I was still sleeping. :) We'll have to tour NYC together the next time RWA is there.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:27 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Louisa, another one who has been to lots of world destinations. Very cool.
I want to visit Savannah. I hear nothing but wonderful things about it. And you'll notice that my post had lots of references to restaurants. :)
- October 15, 2008 at 10:32 AM
- Maria said...
Hi Trish! I'm lucky - my job has taken me around the world and I've been to some amazing places - Bali, Singapore, Hong Kong, London, Switzerland, France, Germany, all around the United States. And each place I visit I say - oh, I'd love to live here. I remember being in Bolder, Colorado for a shoot and I called my husband to say I think we should live here - there's no humidity and I'm having perfect hair days here.
I LOVE Chicago - such a great city - but way to bloody cold in the winter.
But wherever I travel, I'm always glad to come back to New York. There really is NO other city in the world like it.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:36 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Maria, how funny about the good hair days in Boulder! I wanted to go back to San Francisco because I could breath well there. As soon as I got back home from there, my allergies attacked with a vengeance again. I like the salt air and being on the coast so all the pollen gets blown away.
- October 15, 2008 at 10:47 AM
- flchen1 said...
Yep, Trish, I don't think I could actually live in those big cities, but they definitely are very fun to visit! I've decided that I'm not a big-city kind of gal...
- October 15, 2008 at 10:50 AM
- Annie Solomon said...
Man, oh, man, you bandits are SO intimidating. Hong Kong? Istanbul? Sheesh. I was going to say Montauk, which is on the eastern tip of Long Island. Love, love, love the beach. Fresh clams. Fried oysters. Salt water. I also like Long Beach Island and Cape Cod. But how can that compare with the exotica of Sydney or Melbourne? I've seen your aussie beaches and they look wonderful. One day...
Have fun, Trish! Good luck with the signing. Safe trip home.
- October 15, 2008 at 12:04 PM
- Donna MacMeans said...
Hi Trish - I've never been to San Antonio, but always wanted to visit. Thanks for giving me a taste.
I have too many favorite cities to pick one. They're all so unique - and the best thing - there's fans of romance in each one (grin). Here's my partial list of US cities(it keeps expanding). I've only really been to London - which I loved - on the international scene. Hopefully, I'll have the chance to do more traveling in that regard. New York, San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, Washington DC, Savannah, Boston, Maui (not a city, but the island is not much bigger than a city) and anywhere along a beach (grin).
- October 15, 2008 at 12:50 PM
- Trish Milburn said...
Annie, Montauk sounds lovely and like a nice, peaceful vacation spot. I love the beach too.
Donna, your list sounds great too. Maui -- I'm sure it's absolutely gorgeous.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:09 PM
- Anna Campbell said...
Annie, I had to laugh. From where I'm sitting, Montauk sounds MUCH more exotic than either Sydney or Melbourne! I really would love to do some more travelling in the States!
- October 15, 2008 at 1:32 PM
- Minna said...
My favorite towns and cities are
Helsinki -I have been there many times. There's always plenty to see and do. And easy to get to Estonia and Sweden by boat and to Russia by train.
Savonlinna -great place at summer, even if you don't care about opera or ballet festivals.
Turku -old capital of Finland.
And there's one thing in common with all these places: castles.
Joensuu -again, great place at summer. There's always something going on on the market place and you can get there both Karelian pasties and some great Vietnamise food. And as Kiihtelysvaara is now part of Joensuu and the centre of the town is really in the middle of the forest now: there's mushroom festival in august.
Stocholm -castle, old town, Asian museum...
Vancouver -China town, Science Centre...
Toronto -Finnish shop, museums, worlds biggest bookstore.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:44 PM
- Anna Sugden said...
Great post, Trish. How fab that you and Mary (waving hi to Mary!) could do a signing together.
Loved San Antonio when we visited a few years back. Had such a fab time there.
Other favourite cities in the US - Charleston and Denver. And, of course, DC and NY.
Boulder is great, Maria - our friend's triplets run a fab restaurant in Boulder called Trilogy. And I'm with Louisa on Amsterdam - love it!
Sorry folks - hate Paris.
I enjoyed SF this summer too.
Naturally, London and Cambridge rank very highly too *g*.
Would love to go to Oz and check out various cities there.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:51 PM
- Trish Milburn said...
Minna, all those places and things you mention sound wonderful. I know next to nothing about the history of Scandinavia since that wasn't something covered in our history classes.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:57 PM
- Trish Milburn said...
Anna S., I want to explore Denver sometime. I've been through there a few times on the train, but never left the Amtrak station.
- October 15, 2008 at 1:58 PM
- Deb Marlowe said...
Hi Trish! Your trip sounds like fun!
I love the riverwalk in San Antonio. It's so pretty and always busy.
My faves have to be London and Bath, though. Bath is the only place I've thought "I could live here." There's just something special about the light and the atmosphere.
- October 15, 2008 at 2:38 PM
- Anna Campbell said...
Anna, I hate Paris too! I have a good friend who has a theory that people who love Rome (and I do) hate Paris and vice versa. So far, I'm yet to find that she's wrong. Hey, I forgot Copenhagen which is a blast of a city!
Deb, isn't Bath beautiful? All that beautiful golden stone and the way the river winds through the middle. Sigh.
- October 15, 2008 at 4:07 PM
- Trish Milburn said...
Deb, one of my good friends adores Bath.
To the two Annas -- I'm curious. Why do you hate Paris? And why would a person who hates Paris like Rome and vice versa. I find that fascinating.
- October 15, 2008 at 4:23 PM
- Anna Campbell said...
Well, to be fair to Paris, I was there poor and wasn't staying anywhere nice but that didn't stop me liking other places I went. I think part of it is that whole mystique about Paris being romantic and wonderful and beautiful is so pervasive. When I was there, it was dirty and covered in doggy dunnits. There's a lot there to see so I'm not sorry I went. Rome on the other hand is so vibrant and full of life. There's an energy in the air that just crackles. Hmm, not sure I've conveyed the difference between the two adequately. Perhaps VA can weigh in!
- October 15, 2008 at 4:27 PM
- beverley said...
Yesterday it was discipline about losing weight, now today I hear about biscuits and gravy!! I'm about to start that new diet I was just motivated to start. You are killing me!!! LOL.
- October 15, 2008 at 4:31 PM
- sarah said...
I love Taco Cabana... but have you tried Rosa's Tortilla Factory?
- October 15, 2008 at 4:35 PM
- Keira Soleore said...
Fo, your words proved prophetic indeed. Miss Wee slept tight, and so, of course, did I. Hooray.
My favorite state (oops it's like a laaaarge city, no?) is Hawaii. You're never far away from the sight of the ocean, even 10,000 feet up on a mountain. The sound of the waves, the warm sun, the blue skies, the mai tais, the wonderfully fragrant flowers (my favorite flower is the plumeria), the smiles and laid-back attitude, the mai tais, the dances that resemble ocean waves, the strumming of the guitar accompanied by the crackling of a wood bonfire, the sheer beauty and diversity of the forests, the mai tais.... and I could go on and on and...
- October 15, 2008 at 4:52 PM
- Keira Soleore said...
I loved Paris. Yes, it was dirty. No, I didn't see the romance. Yes, there was dog doo everywhere. No, I didn't see anything ooh la la about it.
What I loved about the city were the people. The friendliest, most wonderful people I've met anywhere. My French is less than atrocious and yet, people were beyond gracious from the green-grocer to the Internet cafe owner to a stranger in a metro station who stopped to help us figure our way to Versailles.
- October 15, 2008 at 4:56 PM
- MaryF said...
Hi, Anna!
Sarah, tell me more of this Rosa's Tortilla Factory! I've not heard of it. Another place we wanted to take Trish was the Blue Star Brewery - awesome food and beer and atmosphere. So little time.....
- October 15, 2008 at 5:25 PM
- Nancy said...
Trish, what a cool post! I've heard San Antonio is terrific.
My favorite city is London, but I haven't been there in years. I love the availability of tea and scones and clotted cream and pub food and historic sites and museums and books I can't find at home. The Tube is so much easier to use, to me, than the NYC subway, though a friend forced me to learn that many years ago.
My second favorite city would be New York. It has wonderful museums and restaurants. Once you figure out the subway, getting around is fairly easy. We're actually going there this weekend. The dh is doing some research, so the boy and I are tagging along to do some shopping, visit friends, and see some exhibits.
Jo, congrats on the GR. Make him work very hard. *g* Despite Natalie's spin class, he's probably scheming.
We honeymooned in San Francisco, which was beautiful. I've had a chance to visit Seattle a couple of times, and it was wonderful. The Science Fiction museum is there, amid the gorgeous scenery. It was 95 degrees at home, and I needed a jacket in Seattle.
I'd love to see Australia--buy my own Tim-Tam's, right?--though that looks to be even more distant a possibility than returning to London, which is fairly remote.
- October 15, 2008 at 6:11 PM
Trish, I've always wanted to visit the Alamo, you Americans record your history so well. If I'd have known you and Mary were book signing, it might have made provoked the journey. More notice next time please; there is nothing like bringing something home with a meaning locked away from everyone else. I'm fascinated by journeys and want someone to explain how Davy Crockett got to San Antonio.
Still the truth is, San Antonio would be a crowded place for me. I was going to say Rabbit Flat is the place I'd recommend for you guys to visit. But then I commenced to worry about trinkets for the relatives. --- No, I've decided you need to visit Lambert's Centre, the relatives would understand and when they see your photo standing beside the flagpole it will become a 'must do' for them. But you will still always be the first. ----- An explanation; Lambert's Centre is the centre of the landmass of Australia. It's the only place in Australia where it (Australia) can be lifted on a string and not spill everyone's coffee. I have no idea why they erected a flagpole on the spot. (It's a replica of the one on the National Parliament Building. Anyway it's the place to go and be seen. --- Your in luck, I recently took my, 87 year old, father there. His (happy snap) photo is still fresh. ----- http://eahare.com/centre --- Nothing like open space to charge the batteries (if you're wired like me). ---- Eric
- October 15, 2008 at 8:29 PM
- Joan said...
Very quickly because in <12 hours I go back to the DDJ!
I loved San Antonio the year I visited. The Riverwalk is so beautiful and peaceful in places. We went to an old Victorian house and had lunch outside. That was my first trip to a Seaworld too and the Alamo (Memorable...as in "Don't Forget :0)
Oh, and that's where I saw Queen Elizbeth!
Other faves are NYC, Charleston, New Orleans, San Fran and Doolin Co. Clare (Not a city but man, could I live there!)
- October 15, 2008 at 8:58 PM
- Louisa Cornell said...
Trish, funny that you mention you could breathe in San Francisco! Me too! I was wonderful and I slept so soundly too.
Vienna is another magical city, very Old World and magical. I went to a Faschings Ball there in a gorgeous palace of a home - my first grand ball and it was unforgettable!
Houston is great too. Had some of the BEST TexMex food EVER at a place called the Cadillac Bar and Grill - looks like a dump, but MAN CAN THEY COOK!
Oh and anyone going to Amsterdam, check out the Museum of Sex (Yes, there is a museum dedicated to the history of .... sex!)
- October 15, 2008 at 9:22 PM
- Louisa Cornell said...
Trish, funny that you mention you could breathe in San Francisco! Me too! I was wonderful and I slept so soundly too.
Vienna is another magical city, very Old World and magical. I went to a Faschings Ball there in a gorgeous palace of a home - my first grand ball and it was unforgettable!
Houston is great too. Had some of the BEST TexMex food EVER at a place called the Cadillac Bar and Grill - looks like a dump, but MAN CAN THEY COOK!
Oh and anyone going to Amsterdam, check out the Museum of Sex (Yes, there is a museum dedicated to the history of .... sex!)
- October 15, 2008 at 9:23 PM
- Loucinda McGary aka Aunty Cindy said...
Sorry to be late to the party, but Jo-Mama and I did indeed meet at Chevy's. That green tinge around the GR's beak is guacamole. The naughty chook sneaked in a margarita AND a pina colada in spite of me threatening with the crop!
I LURVE San Antonia too! The Riverwalk is WONDERFUL, and was built during the Great Depression by the WPA. Talk about being ahead of its time.
IMO, New Orleans has the most "European feel" of any city in the US. San Francisco is another of my very favorite places. Actually Sydney reminded me a lot of SF, as did Lisbon Portugal... huge, lovely bay, incredible bridges, slightly hilly terrain.
Helen, I went to Katoomba in the Blue Mtns. when I was in Oz and it was the HIGHLIGHT of my trip! Though I also enjoyed Brisbane the day I spent there. They have a great multi-level shopping mall with interesting sculptures.
LURVED Salzburg, LURVED York, LURVED Istanbul (and I'm going back there in a few weeks), LURVED Bangkok...
I could go on but the DH is calling me to dinner. Hope you all had a great day!
- October 15, 2008 at 9:34 PM
- Caren Crane said...
Jo, I hope you enjoyed the GR!
Trish, although we lived in TX for a year, I never got to San Antonio. I think I would love it there! Your descriptions made me long to go. Especially to Guenther House for the biscuits and gravy. *g*
- October 15, 2008 at 10:03 PM
- Trish Milburn said...
Hey, everyone. Checking in late after being away from the computer for a few hours -- had to speak to the San Antonio RWA chapter tonight, then came back to watch the last of the presidential debates.
Anna C., interesting observations about Paris vs. Rome. It makes one think that the French have done a remarkable job at marketing, doesn't it?
- October 16, 2008 at 12:26 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Beverley, sorry to taunt you with the biscuits and gravy. I always feel like I need a big time diet when I come home from San Antonio. Or any vacation, for that matter.
Sarah, I haven't heard of Rosa's. Will have to put that on my list for next time since I'm heading home tomorrow. I haven't had even Taco Cabana this time, so will need to find some before I leave Texas tomorrow. Did have some Freddy's Frozen Custard on the way back from the meeting tonight though. :)
- October 16, 2008 at 12:29 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Keira, you make Hawaii sound like the paradise it's billed to be. I bet it's a wonderful (if expensive) place to live. It's almost believable one couldn't be stressed there.
Nancy, oh, I'm going to have to put the science fiction museum on my list of things to see when I go back to Washington, along with the small town of Forks, the setting of Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series.
And San Antonio is wonderful. Remember, in a few years, RWA will have our national conference here, right on the Riverwalk. Can't wait!
- October 16, 2008 at 12:33 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Eric, we have one of those markers at the geographic center of the U.S. too. It's in Lebanon, Kansas.
- October 16, 2008 at 12:36 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Joan, I'd love to visit most anyplace in Ireland, I think.
Louisa, I ate at one of those dive, hole-in-the-wall places in Austin, Texas, once. Looked like a dump, but it was yummy. Don't remember the name though. And I've heard of that museum in Amsterdam.
- October 16, 2008 at 12:39 AM
- Trish Milburn said...
Cindy, I'm not surprised you've been to so many fascinating places. You're such a world traveler!
Well, Caren, Texas is a big place, so I can kind of understand not seeing it all while you lived here. It would take a long time.
- October 16, 2008 at 12:43 AM
Wow, thanks Trish. I'll visit yours, whne I'm next on that side of the lake. These things are important (for some reason). Just going by the photo. I think ours is more impressive. --- Eric
- October 16, 2008 at 2:21 AM


text:
For months I wanted to start a blog, but didn't quite know when to start it or what to say. I ended up finding inspiration when I was laid off in early May and wrote my first post, When your best isn't enough. It wasn't long after that post that I was Back in the saddle and Not slowing down one iota. I did the usual things like Meetings, Twitter resume, and job postings... and had a bit of fun with a site called CardsofChange.com.
Then I started looking for ways to get my resume out in the public eye in a different way, so I posted bits and pieces of my resume here, here, here, and here. I didn't even post the entire resume before I wanted to tell you a bit about Changing things up, comfort zones, and being thankful, as well as how Inspiration comes from everywhere.
I've encouraged people to Have some fun during your job hunt and I did just that--I continued to have fun with the folks at CardsofChange.com. I never did hear back from the BBC reporter after my reply to him, but all the same, I had fun dreaming that I might be part of a short feature on the BBC. Maybe I was and didn't even know it--note to self...check with Cards of Change.
During this time, I've also written about how important it is to Pay attention and how I jokingly--yet seriously--say I'm a connector. You do need to pay attention to what's going on around you and you do need to do your part and connect people who need and ask for help. Please believe me when I say that paying it forward is a good thing. It just is.
I had a bit of fun saying My name is Tracy and I'm a Microsoft Graduate. Some say survivor, I chose graduate for a most positive and humorous spin. TomAYto, tomAHto...it's all the same--I'm a survivor, too.
So why am I recapping the writings of the last couple of months? In a nutshell, all this work of connecting, thanking, meeting, paying attention, having fun, and more has come together. In a couple of weeks, I'll be starting a new adventure and I'm super excited. I'll be working with a talented group of people and I can't wait to be a part of it. In fact, I just added my start date to the Days Until countdown clock app on my iPhone! 20 days...tick, tock, tick, tock.
I know, I know...quit with the cloak and dagger and just tell us where you're heading. It's not cloak and dagger; I'm like a good movie trailer that keeps you wanting more and makes you say "I have to see that!" So like a good trailer [roll on-the-edge-of-your-seat-nail-biting music, please]: Coming August 3, 2009
I'm also compelled to give my Oscar acceptance speech before the movie has even been released. LOL Seriously though, there have been so many people who have helped me along the way. To all of you, there aren't words enough to express my deepest and heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for all your kinds words and support. Thank you.


text:
News for the Hospitality Executive
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The TownePlace Suites Ann Arbor's warm lobby and friendly "hello" signage welcomes guests to the check-in area. Guests and staff interact using a floor-to-ceiling TowneMap® that helps guests settle into the local area by featuring great places to eat, popular night spots, recreation areas, shopping and services, such as dry cleaners and local car wash outlets.
With a complimentary continental breakfast every morning in the lobby area, as well as 24-hour complimentary On UsSM coffee service, guests who want a quick snack can also select food and beverage items from the 24-hour access In a Pinch® Market.
Ideal for travelers who need accommodations for a week or more, this property offers studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, as well as separate living/working and sleeping areas. Guests can work and relax on their terms in brightly-colored modern suites that feature full kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, adjustable work spaces with built-in shelves and lighting, a large flat screen television, as well as luxurious new bedding. Each room also features the HomeOfficeSM, designed to provide guests with plenty of storage and flexible space to spread out and make it their own.
Other hotel amenities include an exercise room open 24 hours per day, an indoor pool and whirlpool spa, free wireless Internet throughout the hotel and on-site business services, including copying, faxing and printing. The TownePlace Suites Ann Arbor is pet-friendly (fees may apply) and also provides laundry facilities for guests' convenience.
About TownePlace Suites
TownePlace Suites is an all-suite, extended-stay hotel brand in the moderate price range. Ranked #1 for mid-price extended stays by Business Travel News' Hotel Chain Survey in 2011 and 2012, TownePlace Suites is the only brand to rank at the top of its tier for two years in a row. Ideal for travelers who need accommodations for a week or more, TownePlace Suites offer studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and separate living/working and sleeping areas. Launched in 1997, the brand currently has more than 200 locations in the United States and Canada. TownePlace Suites participates in the award-winning Marriott Rewards frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, contact the TownePlace Suites Ann Arbor directly at 734-327-5900, call the TownePlace Suites toll-free number at 800-257-3000 or visit www.towneplacesuites.com
Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.
Jessica Stadd
Marriott International
Jaime Quayle
General Manager
TownePlace Suites Ann Arbor
|Also See:
Lodging and Marriott Celebrate the Opening of the TownePlace Suites
Denver Airport at Gateway Park in Colorado; The First TownePlace Suites
to Open as Part of Marriott's LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environment) Volume Program / September 2012
June Opening Scheduled for the 100-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott
in Midland, Texas, Owned and Managed by Texas Western Hospitality /
June 2012
|The 99-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott Denver Airport/Fitzsimons to Open in Colorado / April 2012
Suites Celebrates Growth with Designation of its 200th Hotel with the
91-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Monroe, Louisiana; Managed by
InterMountain Management / February 2012
99-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott to Open in Bridgeport, West
Virginia in Early March 2012; Owned and Managed by Baywood Hotels /
February 2012
64-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott Opens in Vincennes, Indiana;
Owned by First Street Development and Managed by American Hospitality
/ December 2011
International Opens the 124-suite TownePlace Suites Tucson Williams
Centre in Arizona, Owned by Apple REIT 9 and Managed by Texas Western
Hospitality / October 2011
International Appoints New TownePlace Suites Leadership Team /
September 2011
95-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott Opens in Gonzales, Louisiana,
Managed by Avalon Hotel Group / August 2011
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Opens in Williamsport, Pennsylvania,
Owned by George Tsunis - Chartwell Church Street and Operated by
Chartwell Hotels, LLC. / July 2011
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Opens in Elko, Nevada, Owned by Ruby
Vista Lodging Associates, Managed by Zions Hospitality Management
Services / June 2011
International to Open 89-suite Extended Stay TownePlace Suites by
Marriott in Fort Wayne Indiana / March 2011
Adds Second LEED Pre-Certified Brand with Groundbreaking for TownePlace
Suites Frederick / March 2011


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Activists spend lots of time developing materials for candidates who never see or hear a word about it. Imagine what would happen if these folks actually got the memo.
While in Denver, I attended a panel hosted by the Women's Media Center and Women's ENews boasting a stellar assortment of women Congressional leaders. If only this had been a mandatory session for every candidate for public office.
Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT) kicked things off by talking about inequality in pay and benefits: Women over a lifetime losing an average of two million dollars; one fifth of women lacking health insurance; nearly half in jobs with no retirement plan. Rep. DeLauro has been spearheading bills like the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would allow women to file for damages without a cap, and end salary secrecy. She also fights for the Fair Pay Restoration Act, to undo the Supreme Court decision that said pay discrimination complaints have to be filed within 180 days of the first act of inequality – even if the woman involved had no idea she was being paid less than male co-workers for the same job.
"Men and women in Congress get equal pay," Rep. DeLauro said. "We need this for every woman."
In addition, Rep. DeLauro has been leading the fight in the House for a new minimum standard of paid sick days.
Cong. Carolyn Maloney (NY) talked about her new book, "Rumors of Our Progress Have Been Greatly Exaggerated: Why Women's Lives Aren't Getting Any Easier--And How We Can Make Real Progress For Ourselves and Our Daughters." She described her outrage when the 9/11 victims compensation planned to award the families of women a third less than the families of their male co-workers based on expected lifetime earnings. Maloney and others got this changed.
Yes, it matters who sits in the halls of Congress.
Facts about domestic violence and sexual assault in the military came from Rep. Loretta Sanchez (CA), the ranking woman on the Armed Services Committee and vice-chair of the Homeland Security Committee. Angered by a Department of Defense that issued 18 reports over 15 years on sexual assault issues but took no action, Rep. Sanchez helped push through a change in the Uniform Code of Military Justice to make it easier for women to bring complaints. She described the military lawyers who insisted that procedures didn't need to change.
"Obviously, you've never been raped," she told them. Now Rep. Sanchez wants any officer on a promotion list to be evaluated on how he's treated issues of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Rep. Gwen Moore (WI) talked about her efforts to improve the lives of women living in poverty. She was able to ensure that women on TANF who have to deal with domestic violence are not subjected to time limits on benefits. Rep. Moore also led the fight to make sure that every penny of child support goes directly to women.
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL) won change allowing women facing deportation who've been victims of domestic violence to file separately for relief. "Being terrorized in your own home is one of the worst kind of terrorisms," she said. She urged U.S. feminists to see ourselves as part of an international sisterhood.
Rep. Schakowsky also highlighted Bush's proposed Conscience Clause, which would allow pharmacists not to fill a prescription if their beliefs oppose birth control. "This is not just about abortion," she said. "This administration is after controlling our lives."
The last speaker was Rep. Lois Capps, co-chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues, which numbered 75 until the untimely death of Rep. Stephanie Tubbs-Jones. A former school nurse, she represents the district where a transgendered youth was murdered. Rep. Capps has fought to help pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and repeal of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell provision.
I attended this panel with a friend whose wife is considering running for Congress. "This panel was transformative for me," he said. Until that moment, he'd been ambivalent, fearing Congress would be too alien and hostile for the work she wants to do. Seeing these vibrant women, so clearly connected to each other, opened his eyes to the kind of support and co-champions his wife would be among.
"I hope she plunges in," he said.
Friday, August 29, 2008
They Got the Memo
Posted by Ellen Bravo at 7:21 AM
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text:
Sarcoma Alliance has announced the selection of Alison Olig to the position of Executive Director. Prior to accepting her new position with the non-profit organization, Ms. Olig had served on the Board of Directors and was a member of the Executive Committee. Arthur Beckert, Executive Director for the past ten years, is assisting with the transition leading up to his retirement in January, 2014.
"After an extensive search involving candidates from around the country, we couldn't be more pleased to have Alison on board as Executive Director. She has already made a tremendous impact as a Sarcoma Alliance board member and we are confident she will bring the same energy, intelligence and compassion to her new role as Executive Director," said James Johnston, President of the Alliance.
Ms. Olig herself was diagnosed with sarcoma at the age of thirteen. "Through my experience with sarcoma, I developed a deep understanding of the physical, mental and social ramifications of the disease and its treatment, both to patients and caregivers," said Ms. Olig.
Sarcoma Alliance is the only national organization with the sole mission of providing information, guidance, and support for people affected by sarcoma - a set of rare connective tissue cancers. The Alliance also offers grants for patients seeking second medical opinions.
For more information about Sarcoma Alliance, please visit sarcomaalliance.org or call 415.381.7236


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Diamonds in Rhythm. A delicately sparkling diamond solitaire appears to float in the centre of this feminine sterling silver pendant, whilst a subtle surround of diamonds adds extra allure. Shimmering diamonds which follow your every move.
- Birthstone
- April
- Brand
- Diamonds in Rhythm
- Diamond
- 0.1 carat
- Material
- Silver
- Necklace style
- Pendant
- Stone setting
- Illusion
- Stone type
- Diamond
- Height
- 1.4 cm
- Length
- 45.7 cm
- Width
- 0.8 cm
Delivery & Returns
At H.Samuel we offer a range of delivery options to suit you:
- Free Standard Delivery available on orders of £49 or more
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- Free Click & Collect to over 300 H.Samuel stores in the UK
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Returns policy: you can return items to us by post or in store within 30 days for a full refund or exchange.*
*We cannot refund or exchange pierced jewellery, e.g. earrings, if they have been removed from the original sealed packaging due to hygiene reasons.
For our full returns policy click here.
Help Centre
For assistance with your purchase, visit our help centre for advice & tips so you can buy confidently with H.Samuel.


text:
I tried my hand at growing Basil this year and it's been quite a success. Here's a quick and yummy recipe for homemade basil pesto.
Here's what you need:
(Sorry about the quality of this photo. Lighting in my kitchen isn't the best).
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parm or Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts (I will warn you pine nuts run around $6.99 for the bag pictured)
- 3 medium size garlic cloves; or if you cheat like me, about a tablespoon of pre-minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Combine basil and pine nuts; pulse a few times in food processor. Add garlic, pulse a few more times.
2. Slowly add olive oil in constant stream while processor is on. Scrape down sides while stopped with rubber spat.
3. Add grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Add sun-dried tomatos for a different taste.
NOTE: if you do NOT plan on using all your pesto in one sitting, you have about 1 week to use it until it goes bad. If you want to make some for later, don't add the cheese. Take an ice-cube tray (or for me an ice-shot glass tray) and line with ceran wrap. Take a spoonful of the mix and spoon into the ice-cube tray. Cover and freeze. Once they have taken shape, you can take them out and put them in a Zip Loc bag and put back in the freezer. They last quite a bit longer in there. To use, simply drop however many "cubes" you want into a pan, add your grated cheese, and you're done! Enjoy!
about done with caprese salads and pesto right now. Any other recipes that I should try with fresh Basil?


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Indian Railways must make some key changes before it becomes attractive to FDI
Two years ago a group under Sam Pitroda, appointed by railways, showed that modernising is doable in a span of a few years. It requires a sharp focus on how less than half of existing tracks bear about 80% of traffic. This modernisation project would encompass tracks, bridges and signals, thereby simultaneously improving safety standards.
Gowda's challenge would be to raise resources for a modernisation project. It is important that he forcefully communicates that the prevailing tendency to use railways' profit from freight to provide passengers' subsidies does not eventually help society — in an indirect way, this actually prevents creation of jobs. For instance, China's freight rates are just 58% of India's and that makes it tough for Indian industry to successfully compete and create jobs at home. Gowda hopes to usher FDI into creating infrastructure for railways. This makes sense. But unless the organisation manages its finances better and takes hard-headed decisions on modernisation, it is unlikely to attract money from outside.
Category: Indian Railways


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Harry Reid's Crazy-Bitch Nemesis
Even if you just marginally follow politics, you have probably heard of Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in Nevada, Sharron Angle. The crazy-bitch running against Majority leader, Harry Reid.
For those that are oblivious to what is happening in the world, she is the women who has advocated multiple times that people should resort to "Second Amendment remedies" if things don't turn out how they want it to. Like you know, if she doesn't get elected.
Here is a Sharron Angle quote of the first time she mentioned the use of these types of remedies…
You know, our Founding Fathers, they put that Second Amendment in there for a good reason and that was for the people to protect themselves against a tyrannical government. And in fact Thomas Jefferson said it's good for a country to have a revolution every 20 years.
I hope that's not where we're going, but, you know, if this Congress keeps going the way it is, people are really looking toward those Second Amendment remedies and saying my goodness what can we do to turn this country around? I'll tell you the first thing we need to do is take Harry Reid out. -Sharron Angle
Did she just propose to shoot Harry Reid? Oh, I'm sorry.. she said "take Harry Reid out", I'm sure she just meant out of office… right. That is strange to me, considering the context she was speaking. Seems to me this was just clever rhetoric, making her statement a bit more subtle and a little less incriminating.
Sharron Angle is one of the Tea DoucheBaggers favorite candidates running for office. Which, in my opinion, is prime evidence for how fucking crazy the Tea Party folk are (or at least most of them). Yes, I am aware that some of you Tea Baggers are just disgruntled unemployed members of society venting your anger at our current economical downturn, and are not necessarily out of your minds, just going through some phase (like emo-goth teenagers). But I think it is safe to say, most of the tea baggers are out of their fucking minds.
If this situation isn't as shocking to you as it is to me, then you are either ignorant or you aren't seeing this for what it really is. This is a crazy-bitch advocating violence if things don't go the way the minority wants it to go. AND SHE IS A VIABLE CANDIDATE FOR PUBLIC OFFICE. I don't know what exactly disqualifies someone from running, but this seems like it should be on the list. What is ironic is that Tea Party members say things like 'we want our country back' and 'we're trying to protect the constitution & the republic', etc. etc. Yet, supporting a candidate who proposes shooting people, er I mean using "second amendment remedies" when and if a genuine, honest election does not go the way you hoped, does not seem very constitutional to me. In fact, I'm pretty sure that it is destructive to our ol' U.S. Constitutional Republic.
What is scary is that it is possible that this women will be elected as a United States Senator; if not from fear, from the indifference of those that choose to smoke pot and watch cartoons instead of staying informed while the crazy Teabaggers gain power. We'd like to think that the Tea Party movement is just some silly nonsensical group. But….
Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large numbers.
For those that dislike politics: Yeah, I understand. Politics can get really frustrating and sometimes even bland, but you live in a democratic republic. You are required to pay attention to what goes on; you are apart of this. In fact, it is downright irresponsible if you don't. When the masses don't give a genuine shit and refuse to put in some effort to get involved with politics, people like Sharron Angle get into office.


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JustData - University Wide Course
Short Syllabus
Big Data is all around us – facebook users, records on citizens, the network of neurons in the brain, routes of migrants, impact of publications. The Data itself is neither good or evil, however, it can be used for either purposes. The availability and analysis of big data opens up enormous opportunities for research, but is not without serious dangers. The course explores the amazing potential and the dark side of Big Data.
By the end of the course, students will have a clear understanding of the Social Justice aspects of Big Data, including its dark side, like collecting and misusing data, and many good practices.
To get credit, a 4-6 pages long case study should be written on a topic chosen by the student. Consultation on Academic Writing and on the Topic is provided.


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Basketball road game cheering help needed thanks
I have a confession to make: In all my years as a Michigan fan and in my time as a student, I have never once attended a mens basketball game. In my defense, I only had enough cash for 2 sports' season tickets, and since I attended school in the Amaker era it was a no brainer to go with Football and Hockey. Tomorrow night, I am attending my first Michigan hoops game, when the team visits Northwestern. Are there any fan cheers that occur at road games?
Basically, I am looking for help from current Maize Ragers with any tips or specifics on current cheers used by our fans for hoops, since I only know the hockey specific cheers (and I doubt I'll be able to use the C-Ya chant all that often at a hoops game). Are there any things we do at home games that also happen on the road? If so, what are those cheers? I'd like to know so I can join in on them if/when they occur. Hopefully I'll be able to make it up to Ann Arbor this year for a home game so I can put your shared knowledge to use there as well. Thanks in advance for the help!


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Okay so, about 8 months back I came across the above mentioned band, I love the fuck out of these guys, They're a Progressive band that to this day I've yet to find one of there full albums, I'd definitely recommend to anyone who reads this to check these guys out. http://thetitancourageous.bandcamp.com/track/love-in-the-asylum
On the right side of the page there is a taskbar labeled "Discography" just clicked either one of the pictures to pull up a song. It's great stuff!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Titan Courageous
4 comments:
Hi i followed you could you please do the same and follow me back .. we can help each other by supporting one another (:ReplyDelete
Hey there, sounds like a good idea, will do that :-DReplyDelete
Thought I'd stop by, spread some love, and see what's going on in here :-)
Son, I am NOT disappoint! Checking in to show some love ;)ReplyDelete
liked it ... good luck with your blog! 10x for followingReplyDelete
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text:
I was baking one day, everyday actually, but it was this one day that pulled me back in time, back to the early 80's.
I adore the 80's! It was the time of many embarrassing episodes of my life and my sister's. We were forced to wear knee length skirts with our blouses tucked in. The skirts and blouses were made by our Mak who displayed us as her models parading her many creations whenever we went visiting. She was quite an avid seamstress and the bulk of our wardrobe originated from her very own line of creativity from her Singer sewing machine. We were never embarrased to be clad in her clothing experiments, well not until we realized that we were growing too tembam for all the dresses and skirts she made. My sis had it worst. She hated to tuck in her blouses as she was getting a lil bit too pudgy for them, (laughs) and she was already in std 6. I was in form 4 and I still had my blouse tucked in and we even had pictures to prove all our claims! which shall never make it to this space of course!
Other than being dressed in our mum's line of clothing, we were all well fed with her cooking too. She was a wonderful cook, still is, and the food that was served on our formica dining table was always interestingly concocted. She would try to clone dishes we sampled from restaurants or gerai outside which most of the time came out a success. And because of this it was always difficult to take both my parents out to dinner as my Ayah would say "...ini, mak pun boleh buat" or "...rugi je bayar mahal2, mak buat lagi sedap!" My Ayah compliments my mother in this way, and he is not a man of many words but when he leaves remarks such as these, my Mak would just float up high.
Apart from cooking we were occasionally surprised by mak's baking skills. She seldom bakes except for trays and trays of cookies when Hari Raya approaches. The only cakes I could remember from those days were the yellow cakes, rectangular ones with drizzles of chocolate glaze on. It was a simple cake but the aroma that filled the air transformed the simplicity into magic and that pulled me here to write this entry. I am constantly searching for that perfect yellow cake and that was when I remembered the cake my mak used to bake when we were little kids. I called her right away to ask for the recipe but she didn't have it. All she could recall was the rough measurements in ounces! I desperately wanted to recapture that special aroma and this time in my own kitchen as a grown up who bakes for a living. I whipped up the batter in seconds and into my oven they went only to emerge later with that similar aroma of yesteryears. Olfactory has taken effect and I felt like that tembam little girl again. I hurriedly fetched some cocoa powder, icing sugar and milk powder and did the glaze my sis's way. She loved to have the cake with the chocolate glaze, the type of icing she fancies on everything edible! Quietly I poured the glaze on the little cakes and there I was sitting on my kitchen stool alone, sinking my teeth into the soft warm yellow cake with chocolate icing all over my mouth. After losing the thrid cake in my tummy, only then my kids realized of the cupcakes existence and they rushed in with a bowl each collecting their shares.
I would like to share with you the yellow cake recipe here. It might not be the best cake you have ever sampled, but it was certainly the best one, for all four of us sibblings. One that would always remain special simply for its presence on our formica dining table, all cut and divided equally amongst the adik beradik in order to avoid my Nyah having more than his shares.
Ps. The best thing about this recipe is, the cakes don't pull away from the paper cups.
Mak's Yellow Cake
4 large eggs
8 ounces butter
8 ounces sugar,(please reduce the amount to 6 ounces)
8 ounces flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Beat butter and sugar till fluffy. Pour in the eggs one by one and beat well. Sift flour and baking powder and spoon the mixture into the wet batter. Fold everthing well. Bake at 175 celcius till skewer comes out clean.
Chocolate Glaze
This is not an accurate measurement, please use a lot of discretions.
6 Tablespoon of icing sugar
1 Tablespoon of Imported cocoa powder,
1 Tablespoon of powder milk
1 Tablespoon of boiling water.
Mix everything together until it forms a thick paste. Pour onto the warm cake and leave to cool.
Through The Barricades
Mother doesnt know where love has gone
She says it must be youth
That keeps us feeeling strong
See it in her face, thats turned to ice
And when she smiles she shows
The lines of sacrifice
And now I know what theyre saying
When the sun begins to fade
And we made our love on wasteland
And through the barricades
Father made my history
He fought for what he thought
Would set us somehow free
He tought me what to say in school
I learned off by heart
But now thats torn in two
And now I know what theyre saying
In the music of the parade
We made our love on wasteland
And through the barricades
Born on different sides of life
We feel the same
And feel all of this strife
So come to me when Im asleep
Well cross the line
And dance upon the street
And now I know what theyre saying
When the drums begin to fade
We made our love on wasteland
And through the barricades
Oh, turn around and Ill be there
Theres a scar through my heart
But Ill bare it again
I thought? we were the human race
But we were just another border-line-case
And the stars reach down and tell us
That theres always one escape
I dont know where love has gone
And in this trouble land
Desperation keep us strong
Fridays child is full of soul
With nothing left to lose
Theres everything to go
And now I know what theyre are saying
Its a terrible beauty weve made
So we make our love on? wasteland
And through the barricades
Now I know what theyre are saying
As hearts go to their graves
We made our love on? wasteland
And through the barricades.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The Little Things We Grew Up On
I was baking one day, everyday actually, but it was this one day that pulled me back in time, back to the early 80's.
Posted by Wiz at 11:01 PM
4 treats:
- mº¿ºsh, brecht & nora said...
Hi Wiz, thx for sharing the recepi on your blog. I think others would want to protect it as their family secret recepi, but not u my friend = ) I am glad tho! Big hugs and good luck with the week ahead. I am down & out with a bad tummy upset, perhaps its gastric or food poisoning or even both, but i am on medication and resting....
- February 25, 2008 at 5:28 PM
- Salina said...
You have inherited both her creativity and culinary skills wiz! i have to agree with your father i've tasted and sampled dishes from many restaurants world wide since i was 17 and i still feel that my mum's cooking is the best! Her curry crab is one to die for and most importantly all her dishes are cooked with love! Thanks for sharing the recipe!
And you know Wiz your children too now give the same compliment to you..mama masak lagi sedap! Remember the incident when adnin and iman asked you for money and later you found out that they used the money to buy your cupcakes! That's the biggest compliment ever for a mother!
- February 25, 2008 at 6:49 PM
- Wiz said...
Mush - I have been wanting to write to you, but I always need to rush out or in or up or down or all of the above (laughs). Thanks Mush for constantly keeping my spirits high. I owe you one big cake!
Salina - Salina, thanks for dropping by despite the new working schedule you have to abide to. Nothing like home cooked meals and those who we serve them to. My kids are just being naive I guess in terms of their tastebuds. They haven't tasted other people's food hence their belief in Mum's cooking is the best.
- February 25, 2008 at 7:02 PM
- anasalwa said...
We all have those embarassing moments when we were young. Now, that we are grown up (have we?:)))we wondered why was it it became a big deal then?
How is your running? Hope you have improved.
I would like to suggest you to get Stu Milltelman's book, Slow Burn, because I think I never read an excellet book about running as his.
And of course, nobody can cook better than our Mak.
- February 25, 2008 at 7:28 PM


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FOR TODAY, December 27th
Outside my window... we awoke to a dusting of feather light snow, nearly just a heavy frost, and the sunny skies have already melted most of it. Just a hint of what's in store in the coming weeks, but it tempted me to bundle the kids and go for a walk nonetheless.
I am thinking... about the year ahead. Over the years, I've worked to simplify my life and create more time and space for family. I'm feeling the pull to simplify further, to decrease the daily running and increase my daily investment in my home, my God, and his plans for my family. Today, I am reflecting and praying about what changes are necessary.
I am thankful... for a lazy morning at home after several days of celebrating with extended family. Noah and Miriam are getting along beautifully for the time being, a huge blessing while Big Sister is with her dad and not here to provide some added entertainment.
From the learning rooms... Our oldest has been learning all sorts of life lessons this year, namely the value of practicing and learning things that don't come easily to her. I haven't taught this lesson well thus far, partly because school has come fairly easily in the past few years. Working hard for something difficult is a vital lesson to learn, and I'll continue to work to instill that value in her.
We gave Noah his first chapter book for Christmas: Magic Tree House. I was a little leery of starting him on higher level reading too early, but he read chapter one with me last night and finished confident and not at all frustrated.
Miriam's Santa gift this year was a LeapPad Explorer, a perfect item for her weekly car rides to and from ballet class. True to herself, she progresses at her own pace. It's not always the one I'm comfortable with or the one that I'd choose for her, but I've learned (and I'm still learning) to escort her and cheer her on rather than try to push.
In the kitchen... there are plans for easy winter meals- the kind that simmer or roast all day and come in bowls with cornbread on the side- vegetable soup, chili, and pot roast. Winter dinners are some of my favorites. The house smells good all afternoon, and the kitchen is a bit cozier than the rest of the year.
I am creating... my 2012 family calendar. It seems full of weekly demands, but they are activities that each of my children look forward to and always attend excitedly.
I am reading... an awesome read for parents of boys (of all ages). It full of clear explanations and practical, bible-based advice. Like all books, I'm reading it as advice and not scripture, but I've gotten many nuggets from this book, and I really wish I'd read it when my son was younger.
I am looking forward to... finding out if I'm getting a niece or a nephew at the end of this week! I've been praying for a healthy ultrasound for my sister and brother-in-law first and foremost, but I'm getting excited about being able to start some projects for the little guy/gal.
I am hearing... the sounds of a big brother teaching a little sister to play Super Mario Bros beside me. I'm sure it'll turn into a squabble over turns soon enough, but that's life around here. We revel in the goodness while it lasts!
Around the house... I've sorted and cleared the kitchen and game cabinet to make room for Christmas gifts. It left me wanting to sort and clear out every nook and cranny of our home, but I think I'll work on laundry and wait until I'm more sane to decide what items we need and what can be donated.
I am pondering... Gift-giving. Every year, I leave Christmas feeling like gift exchanges are frivolity and not as much a genuine giving. It seems to me that we need to be giving gifts of time and talent rather than tossing $30 toward a cashier for a gift that we hope our family members will like. I can think of gifts of time I could have given to each person on my gift list this year, and I think they may have been happier with that than anything I could have wrapped and placed under a tree. Something to think about for next year, but it's also something I could be doing all year long.
One of my favorite things... I got for Christmas was the bracelet my oldest gave me. For weeks before Christmas, she was excited about her choice. When I opened it, I realized just how grown up she is becoming. I loved it because it was obvious that she hadn't thought of herself while choosing it. She'd carefully chosen something that had elements of her mamma's favorite things, an ability that she struggled with in past years.
A few plans for the rest of the week: a few store exchanges for my oldest whose feet are, apparently, nearly as big as my own. Both the house slippers and rain boots she received for Christmas were too small, and I thought I may have been purchasing too large! We're hoping to catch up with friends who we didn't see often enough this fall, but mostly, I plan to camp out at home and play with the kids!
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...