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Xiamen Municipal Library
Xiamen Municipal Library, founded in 1919, has a history of more than ninety years. The old library was located at No. 2 Gongyuan South Road , donated by Mr. Yang Yiyao, a well-respected elder reader residing in Hong Kong. The new Xiamen Municipal Library (No. 95, Xiamen Cultural Arts Center, Tiyu Road) was built and opened to the public on March 1, 2007. The new library has an area of 25,732square meters, with an open reading space of two layers (each 6,000 square meters), which adopts a "collection acquisition, borrowing, reading, retrieving and consulting" mode. Xiamen Municipal Library houses 2.503 million volumes of books, 1.474 million kinds of e-books, 102.6TB electronic resource databases, and had a special local Minnan literature collection.
Taking "open all-round , full public service, the whole society to share" as its service policy, building a socialized library as itsidea, and humanized equality, free and convenient service as its principle, Xiamen Municipal Library forms an all-round open mode in construction facilities, collection resources, reader service and so on. It provides readers service with multilevel, diversify and multiform, trying its best to satisfy readers' various information needs. Xiamen Municipal Library opens 365 days a year and its services are all free. On average, it receives 12 thousand people one day. Wireless internet is accessible in the library. It offers e-newspaper system, self-check stations, self-service copier, self-service scanner, and it also offers services such as book-borrowing reservation, book-renewing by phone, online renewal, book-return warning by text and etc. Xiamen Municipal Library sets up some self-service libraries, which makes itmore convenient for readers to obtain documentary information .In order to enrich readers' reading contents, it offers services such as reading salon, lectures, movies, story-telling session, exhibitions and all kinds of reader activities all year round. It also holds library service propagandas in communities, schools and companies to guide citizens how to use library. Since 2011, XiamenMunicipal Library holds about 1110 theme activities each year, including training, exhibitions, lectures and reading activities. Now XiamenMunicipal Library has become a comprehensive public library with high degree of openness and distinctive features of service.
Xiamen Municipal Library's goal is to share the local/regional collections and resources via network technologies and communication. As the central point, Xiamen Municipal Library will be surrounded and supported by district libraries with all the town/village libraries as its nodal points. At present, library (at city and district level ) realize general card, loan and return of books, the literature cataloging, co-construction and sharing of digital resources, readers' activities interconnection and interaction. In 2010, Xiamen Municipal Library signed astrategic cooperation agreement with National Digital Library of China, which has realized "Complete coverage of national digital library in Xiamen", and effectively improved the service ability of the digital resources in Xiamen . In recent years, Xiamen Municipal Library hasestablished 19 branch libraries and 5 outside circulation points at Gulang Island, Haicang, Xinglin, Guankou, and other places. That meansXiamen Municipal Library has preliminary formed the public library service network covering the whole city.
Xiamen Municipal Library has won good social benefits because of the service policy "open all-round , full public service, the whole society to share" and socialized management service concept. In 2016, Xiamen Municipal Library received 4.39 million readers, lent out3.93 million books, the business indicators ranked the top among national public libraries and won a lot of prizes, like the National CultureSystem Advanced Collective, National March 8th Red Flag Collective, National Women's Civilization Post, Nationa First Class Library rated by Ministry of Culture, Civilized Unit of Fujian Province, National Science Education Base, Social and Sciences PopularizationBase of Fujian Province. Xiamen Municipal Library has become the knowledge palace for public lifelong education and the center of the sharing of city's public literature, information and resources in central cities in the west coast of the strait.
Xiamen Municipal Library is located on No.95, Tiyu Road.
Xiamen Municipal Library opens all year round.


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The Stars in Our Eyes
Book Review - The Stars in Our Eyes: The Famous, the Infamous, and Why We Care Way Too Much About Them by Julie Klam
The Stars in Our Eyes: The Famous, the Infamous, and Why We Care Way Too Much About Them by Julie Klam was an entertaining read, but also insightful. It sparked several conversations with friends and family that led to lively debates about what it means to be a celebrity and whether or not we feel at all sorry for some of the cons that comes along with fame.
One of my favorite chapters was Chapter 12: On Location, in which Julie Klam discussed physical locations (such as Carrie Bradshaw's brownstone in Sex and the City...see below) as a form of celebrity. Who cares?, she asks. She even sites a specific example of tourists checking out the aforementioned brownstone and actually missed seeing human celebrities Sally Field and Mick Jagger. Had it been me (and, who knows, it might have been!) I wouldn't have cared much. In fact, I would have been more disappointed if I had missed the brownstone while being distracted by Sally Field and Mick Jagger. Later in the chapter Julie Klam speculates that "When you're photographed in a famously filmed location, you can get a brief feeling of being the celebrity." I have to disagree. I don't get the sense of being a celebrity standing in front of the house from The Truman Show (see below.)
As a bigger fan of famous locations than famous people, let me offer an alternative: famous locations are rarely a disappointment. They are often more charming, more impressive, more real in person than they were on film. Famous people, however, are often less charming, less impressive, less real than they were on film. With the exception of the two celebrities I've had the opportunity to meet in person: Meryl Davis (2014 Olympic Champion in Ice Dancing and Mirror Ball trophy winner on the 18th of Dancing with the Stars with partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy) and Justin LeBlanc (placed 3rd on the 12th season of Project Runway.) Both of these people were extremely kind and gracious enough to pose for a picture with me. Side note: I have great success meeting celebrities at art museums. I met Meryl Davis at the Met Museum in NYC and Justin LeBlanc at the St. Louis Art Museum.
A part of the book that seems to spark the most debate is whether or not celebrities have a right to privacy (or a somewhat normal life.) When you choose a career that you know will thrust you into the spotlight, do you have the right to complain or be rude when fans interrupt your lunch to say hello, ask for an autograph, or request a picture? This is the single most compelling argument for staying out of the spotlight, personally. I thoroughly enjoy being able to enjoy a glass of wine al fresco at the restaurant of my choosing and lose myself in a book. I would hate to be interrupted to pose for a picture, have a conversation with, or give an autograph to a stranger (luckily, the likelyhood of this ever happening is nil.)
So what do you think? Do celebrities have any room to complain about fans? Is there a line that shouldn't be crossed by fan or celebrity? Join the conversation on Facebook.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link. Thank you for supporting this blog and the books I recommend!

subset: commoncrawl


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Southwick- Herbert C. Pace, Jr. died peacefully at Noble Hospital March 6, 2019, with his wife Shirley at the bedside. Born November 19, 1921 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Herbert and Dorothy (Springham) Pace, he was a Technical High school graduate, and earned his BA at American International College. He spent seven years in the Navy during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Herb and his wife Shirley (Walters) married August 26, 1950 and had two children, Leslie and Jonathan. They have lived in Southwick, Massachusetts since 1958.
Herb's first job teaching was in a one room schoolhouse in Tolland, Massachusetts. He was a teacher and principal in Colebrook, Connecticut as well, before moving to Southwick for the remainder of his career. He was a guidance counselor and middle school principal. He was a lifelong learner and used his GI Bill benefits to earn two masters degrees in education. During summers he worked at the West Hartford YMCA camp (Camp Jewell) as Trips Director. Herbert was preceded in death by his parents, brother James, and sister Barbara. He is survived by his wife Shirley, daughter Leslie Modena of Nashville, Tennessee, son Jonathan Pace (Michelle) of Lake Worth, Florida, a sister, Marjorie Baker, and brother, Ralph Pace. Herb had seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. The committal service is to be held at the Agawam Veterans' Cemetery April 11, 2019 at 3 PM. Please donate in his name to Southwick Dollars for Scholars (PO Box 88, Southwick MA 01077) in lieu of flowers. Scholarships will be given to students pursuing a teaching career.
Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick, is entrusted with final arrangements.


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Looking to make some homemade instant Oatmeal Packets that you can customize and make for less than half the price of the store version? Here's the recipe!
Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets
I'm one of those people that needs breakfast right away every single morning. (Unlike my hubby who rarely wants breakfast.) I wake up a hungry bear that needs something satisfying to eat!
I love having something pre-made and ready to go, it's easy to grab while I'm working or before I need to run out the door. One easy and mostly healthy breakfast food is instant oatmeal. Pre-made in those little packages they are easy to pack for lunches or grab from the cupboard. Too bad they are so expensive and have some scaries in them. Let's take a look:
Oat(s) Whole Grain Rolled, Sugar, Natural Flavors, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Guar Gum, Oat(s) Flour, Caramel Color, Iron Reduced, Vitamin A Palmitate
Yummy, fake coloring and mysterious "natural flavors". Just what I wanted in a breakfast!
Boxed Price:
The regular price of this on Amazon per 12 count box is around $3.50.
So let's mix up some of our own!
Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets
What You Need:
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 2 teaspoons powdered milk (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon sugar (brown sugar, succant, turbinado, honey granules, ect)
- Snack-sized plastic bags or jelly jars
Tada!! Instant oatmeal! Make them in bags OR
You can make them in jelly jars.
If you'd rather, you could also just times this recipe by 5 or 10 and place the whole thing in a jar to keep at home. Just measure out a little more than 1/2 cup of mix for each bowl. When you want to make a packet just add 3/4 cup of hot water or milk and stir. You could also add dried fruit to make different flavors.
It takes about a whole 5 minutes to make a whole bunch of these. So fast but will save lots of breakfast prep-time in the future!
Homemade Price:
I paid $3.60 for 5 pounds of organic oats. There are 5 cups of oats in a pound so each 1/2 c. of oats per recipe cost me $0.07. The sugar and powdered milk are really small amounts but I will guess it costs about $0.15 for each "packet" including the oats. That makes the total $1.80 for a 12 count (which is what's in each store boughten box) or a difference of $1.70. About 50% off the cost of the store bought and I my version was even organic!
Get some great ideas on how to Make Perfect Oatmeal and add in ideas here!
Looking for more mixes that you can make quickly and easily? My book,Little House Living: The Make Your Own Guide to a Frugal, Simple, and Self Sufficient Life has over 130 recipes just like this one!
Who knew that homemade instant oatmeal packets could be so easy! What mix do you want to see me make next? Find even more make ahead breakfast ideas!


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Queensland Ecotourism Trails are ecologically sustainable opportunities aimed at delivering environmental, social and economic benefits to Traditional Owners, regional communities and to Queensland
Driving innovation to create a strong, vibrant economic future for our state
Queen's Wharf Brisbane is a $3.6 billion Integrated Resort Development that will put Brisbane firmly on the map as a global tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.
Tourism supports one in 11 Queensland jobs. The Queensland Government is committed attracting investment, sustaining communities and continuing to grow tourism and jobs in the state through a range of funding and initiatives.
The Department of Innovation, Tourism Industry Development and the Commonwealth Games contributes to the Queensland Government's objective for the community of creating jobs and a diverse economy by focusing on leading the Advance Queensland initiative, the success of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and growing tourism in the state.
Call 13 QGOV


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Distinction between Usufruct and Fideicommissum
When a testator gives a beneficial interest in property to successive persons, it is a question of construction whether he or she intends to make the first taker owner subject to a fideicommissum in favour of the second or the second taker owner subject to a usufruct in favour of the first. The following is a basic distinction between the two concepts:
A Usufruct enables the holder (usufructuary) to use certain property belonging to someone else and to enjoy the fruits subject to the condition that the substance of the property be maintained. It may be granted for life or for a specified time or until the happening of a specific event but where granted for a specified time or until the happening of a specific event it will terminate if the usufructuary dies before such time or before such event has happened.
A Fideicommissum is whereby a benefit, usually fixed property, is bequeathed to one person (fiduciary) subject to the condition that on the occurrence of a specified event or the fulfillment of a specified condition, usually the death of the fiduciary, that the inheritance or part thereof is to pass on to another person.
Should you require any assistance with your estate planning please do not hesitate to contact our offices.


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shop premium used wedding dresses
< All Dresses premium listingORIGINAL PRICE: $2200 ASKING: $1500 Save 32%
OtherLouvre Couture – Custom One of a Kind Dress
- Label Size:
- 8
- Street Size:
- 8
OtherLouvre Couture – Custom One of a Kind Dress
- Label Size:
- 8
- Street Size:
- 8
This listing has expired.
This couture dress is brand new and never been worn. I bought this dress for my upcoming wedding in 2016. My fiance and I decided to change the venue and have a larger wedding, so I opted for a more flowing gown for the ceremony. This dress is elegant and very classy with a lot of bling to it. I have never worn it nor has it been altered in any way.
- Label Size: 8
- Street Size: 8
- Color: Ivory
- Silhouette: Aline
- Material: Embellishment
- Neckline: Strapless
- Style: Glamorous
- Condition: New
- Original Owner: Yes
- Has Original Receipt: Yes
No alterations at all. Brand new .
All Sales Final
Location: Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Will Ship to: Anywhere at Buyer Expense
Payment Methods Accepted: Other


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Web conferencing - which to choose?/
We're lucky enough to be able to have face to face meetings with many of our clients. When that's impossible there's always the phone but sometimes you need to share documents, see screens. While many of our clients prefer to host web conferences, they don't all have that capability and with more of our team at remote locations we've an internal need as well. We've used lots of the choices which gave us an advantage in our decision making. Some are just harder to use than others or don't have all the functionality we're looking for. Just some of what we need is VOIP, support for video, multiple presenters, and ease of use. There are some great sites out there with quite detailed comparisons that were a huge help.
We've not quite finalized our decision. Pretty rapidly we narrowed it down to GoToMeeting or ClickMeeting. We've used GoToMeeting before, and like it. In fairness we decided to do a 30 day free trial of ClickMeeting as we've no experience with it. We'll see what we think at the end of the trial!


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The Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce in Michigan prides itself on supporting its member companies. Several years ago, chamber leaders saw Hemlock Semiconductor, one of its largest members, ramp up investment in polycrystalline, a critical component of solar panels. Other chamber members such as Dow Corning Research and Dow Chemical were investing in solar as well.
"We reflected on how we could grow the solar business in Michigan," said Veronica Horn, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs, at the Saginaw Chamber. "But then we learned that there's more solar potential in Michigan then there is in Germany, one of the largest producers and consumers of solar power in the world."
Working hand-in-hand with Saginaw Future, the economic development agency for Saginaw County, the two organizations decided to try to increase demand for solar in Michigan by working with local governments to streamline permitting processes for companies interested in installing renewables. They launched four "Solar Ready Community" pilot projects using the streamlined permitting processes and helped develop the infrastructure necessary for local businesses to install solar panels.
The program is working: other solar supply chain companies have moved into the region and Saginaw Future has built a large clean energy manufacturing park called Great Lakes Tech Park that serves as a business accelerator for clean tech.
The Saginaw Chamber can be found online here. Saginaw Future is here.


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On Wednesday, November 29, 2017, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library invited people to "Get happy about the future of Main Library" at a happy hour-themed Town Hall meeting. More than 100 interested community members heard from the architect team of Clark Nexsen, Snøhetta and brightspot strategy - and shared feedback on what they want to see in a new Main Library.
The goal of the Town Hall was to "cast the net wide" and get the public's input on the new vision of Main Library as a "public commons." This vision was developed by the Library and MACHINE, with funding from the Knight Foundation, incorporating community input through focus groups and prototyping.
Before the start of the program, guests enjoyed refreshments and talked excitedly about the new Main Library. They were then encouraged to rank possible services and amenities from "Not Very Important" to "Very Important."
After the rankings and a short presentation from the architect team, the crowd broke into four groups to talk specifically about what they wanted in a new Main Library. The groups then shared their conclusions with the rest of the audience.
The architect team will incorporate this feedback into the space program for the new Main Library. More opportunities for community input will include a non-user survey, thematic worshops, and another Town Hall in February.
Learn more about the Future of Main Library


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Join us on Saturday April 4th for the 7th Annual Pathways Church Indoor Easter Egg Hunt. Each year an estimated 6,000 people participate in the Wisconsin's Largest Indoor Easter Egg Hunt which includes more than 30,000 eggs and over 3,000 pounds of candy. That's not all, there will also be many incredible outdoor activities such as giant inflatables, prize giveaways, refreshments, family activities and so much more. Don't miss this years incredible event! Click here for additional details.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: April 3Good Friday Service
Later Event: April 5Easter Services


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OkCupid p3 (and dating OT)
I have a date early next week!
I have a date early next week!
1) An eye-roll.
Commiserate with me.
It looks like some serious actions are being taken today against the camps. A large police and military presence are surrounding people.
I recommend Lizzo.
I am so thankful for the a cappella version at the march. Here is MILCK's official music video version.
Look for a sister march on January 21st! The Women's March website has a search feature to help you out.
Cute corgi gif because I need more corgi in my life.
Hey GT - I need your help. I decided to write a novel but have run into a problem while creating character profiles. I am looking for a free program or game online that creates realistic-looking avatars for my own use. I think I need to visualize my characters to better describe/understand them. I know over 5 years…
Super scribbles because doxxing. But WTF? The only thing on my feed right now is a post from Jezebel, and it won't load anything else. What is this shit at the bottom? Are you forcing me to make more friends, FB? Not cool. I have enough. I don't add people because I don't want to. If I add someone, it is because I…
But for real, how have I never heard of Prince Ea before?
Well hello there,
And this story sticks out to me.
You do not need to step directly into the path I am going to use while staring at me. Not when the event is over 20 ft from where I will be walking. In a very open courtyard. I recognize your power-play, making me walk around you. WHY. WHY IS THIS NECESSARY. I am just going to class...
...must carry many books. Intense books. These are for my senior seminar. I will probably love each book in its own individual way, even if they will be emotionally taxing.
I had a surprise wisdom teeth extraction yesterday. I went in with tooth pain expecting a cavity, and it turns out I have good hygiene and my teeth are in good shape (silver lining?) But those upper wisdoms, man? They were erupting downwards and causing me problems. I had my lower wisdom teeth out a few years ago…
I'm tired. I'm tired of people calling us slackers, uneducated, and incapable. I'm tired of previous generations blaming the young and doing nothing to change the problems they obviously see. Do you want to know why the media and society seem dumbed down to you?
A cousin posted this on facebook today. I wanted to spread the happiness! We Are the 15 Percent is such a lovely idea, inspired by the Cheerios ad depicting an interracial family that we all remember.
get in my pants.
I was at a favorite(?) restaurant waiting for an internet date. I was pissed and about ready to leave, because he was really late. He came in makin' a fuss, probably drunk. I was waiting behind some sort of barrier and pretty far away so he didn't see me right away. Finally he is stumbling and pretty much yelling…


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I bought a new cookbook and wanted to try this recipe. Baron was nice enough to help me make it and when it came time to taste we of course had to put some candles on his piece just to make it that special. I don't know what's gotten into him but the kid loves cake. He will occasionally shout out "cake, cake, cake!!!" at dinner when we don't have any and also sometimes at random moments. What can I say, he likes cake. However, when he tasted the chocolate icing on top, he did his sour face immediately and spit out the half eaten piece which then plopped to the floor allowing the dogs to enjoy.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
The Visitors
I didn't really know what to title this blog entry so I just went with above. Amy and her kids came to visit last weekend. It's always a nice break in the routine when they come down because Baron absolutely loves it. He gets so much attention from those kids that when they leave, Baron goes into meltdown mode and will constantly ask for them, but it's totally worth it.
Friday, Chad's family came over and it just so happened that CJ was going to swing by, so all the kiddos were together. It was strange not to have mom and dad there. After we had dinner, we all headed outside and the kids played some Baseball or at least tried with Baron in the way. Baron had just recently started showing an interest in the ball and bat so he was having a good time trying to hit the ball. After they left, we pulled out the tee and set that up. He really enjoyed that and we did too especially since he was able to put the ball back up on the tee without our help. He just needs to learn to hold the bat correctly and with two hands but that will come.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Chicago – Birthday Party
On Saturday, we crashed James' good friends 3 year old birthday party. It was really cute because Baron had a blast and was able to play with other kids around his age. He particularly like riding in the miniature Escalade and being able to drive it. I think he was in awe.
It was really weird, we actually let go of our parental death grip to let him go play with the other kids alone and he did fine! I know, shocker, eh?
As I mentioned in a previous post, we traveled up to Chicago to see James and Julie. It was such a good visit and was nice to be able to get away for awhile. Baron loved all the attention and still talking frequently about James, Julie and Stella. Julie is also pregnant so every now and then Baron will mention the baby in Julie's belly. It's so sweet.
Julie had talked about this small water park that would be a nice place to take Baron. Turns out it was awesome! I love these places that are thoughtful enough to think about the little kids. They had two small slides for little ones and an area that didn't get over 2ft deep. That's prefect. I am a worrier anyway when it comes to the water but when it's that shallow, I can rest a little easier. Baron loved the slides and would eventually go on his own. That was quite the shock because he's still a little afraid of the water. Actually, I think that he just doesn't like it going in his eyes. I lost count how many times he went down the yellow slide, that was by far his favorite. Sure would be nice to find something like that around here.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Oh, Stella…
Stella is a rescued Boxer from my good friends, Julie and James. She seriously is the SWEETEST.DOG.EVER.
Rob, Baron and I traveled up to hang with Julie and James in Chicago last weekend (more on that later) but we had the pleasure of meeting their new addition, Stella. I have to admit, I was a tad nervous because I didn't know how she would react to Baron but only after a few minutes, I knew that she was just a big sweetie. I couldn't help to get some shots of her. Honestly, almost all of the shots were good. That rarely happens with my dogs.
Sorry for the repetitive pictures, I couldn't help playing with different effects and just had to post them. Plus, who can resist looking at that precious face!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
We are so lucky to be just 5 mins from a nice Firework display. The show was at 9.30pm, we started packing up at 9.15 and arrived at 9.20. Found some seats in an empty car lot and as soon as we sat down, they started. Couldn't have been more perfect. Then once they were done at 10pm we were home shortly after that. Nice and easy…
Baron, again this year, thoroughly enjoyed himself. He did ask me to hold his hand at first when they started and as he gained more confidence but soon let go.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
St. Louis Air Show
Baron is total a sucker for airplanes. We often go to a park, Airplane Park, where there is a constant flow of airplanes/helicopters and Baron gets the biggest kick out of it. When I saw that the Air Show was going to be down by the Arch during the 4th of July weekend, I knew that was something that I wanted to take him to.
Surprisingly, it was really easy to park and we were able to get good seats. No too crowded but it was HOT. Of course I forgot the sunscreen (I know, horrible aren't I) so Rob and I had the chore of trying to keep the sun off Baron all when we were facing the sun to watch the planes fly by.
Baron was in complete awe. I think he sat there for the first 10 minutes with his mouth open and his head going from side to side watching them fly around the Arch. Eventually he started with the Wow's, Ohhh's and Ahhh's that eventually transitioned into "Go, Guys, Go!".
Monday, July 12, 2010
Baron helped me bake for the first time on the 4th. I needed to make some brownies for a dessert since we were having people over. He did really good until the eggs and when I handed him and showed him how to crack it on the side of the bowl he just crushed the egg in his hand completely. Took me a while to find all of the shell and get it out. I tried to show him a different way, doing most of it myself, but then we started to have a tugging war over the egg and it ended up like the first. Going to have to not show the eggs next time.
Anyway, this was the first time he actually wanted to lick the spoon and beater. I know that everyone thinks I'm nuts but every time I hand him something new he shoves it away and won't taste it. So we have to try and trick him into eating it. Some of the time it works but for the majority of the time it doesn't. So I was surprised needless to say that he grabbed the spoon and beater and went to town.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Rob and I had been looking for a nice shallow stream for Baron to throw rocks in since he absolutely loves it. Rob somehow found the best riverbed to play in. This place is located in Castlewood State Park which is conveniently located just 10 mins away from us. How nice, right? The deepest part is just a few feet deep and easily avoidable. Perfect for Baron.
It was really nice, we walked the riverbed while Baron would throw rocks in the water and splash around. As usual, when it came time to leave, Baron threw his crying fit constantly repeating that he wanted to "throw rocks in the water".


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Texas school violence forums begin Tuesday as pressure builds for special session
Forums will include varying views on school safety, gun laws, mental health issues
AUSTIN — Pressure is mounting for Gov. Greg Abbott to call a special session on school safety as the governor launches a three-day roundtable discussion Tuesday about how to better protect students after 10 Texas high schoolers and teachers were shot to death at Santa Fe High School.
Politicians from both parties called on the governor to order the Legislature into a special session to address school safety as soon as possible instead of waiting until the 2019 legislative session, tapping national momentum for attacking a decades-long rash of school shootings that are happening more often — and now, close to home.
"These school shootings are happening with increasing frequency and are senseless tragedies that we must eradicate. The time to act is now, for not only our children's safety, but for the peace of mind of all Texans by restoring their confidence in our duty to protect them," Rep. Byron Cook, a Republican from north of Waco, wrote in a letter to Abbott Monday.
"The time to act is now," Rep. Jason Villalba, a Dallas Republican, said on Twitter before sending the governor his own plea for a special session. "We have only 90 days until the 2018-2019 school year begins. I do not denigrate the power of prayer, but this is the season of action."
Democratic candidate for governor Andrew White and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Chris Turner of Grand Prairie also called on the governor to summon lawmakers back to Austin.
"While discussions to generate consensus are welcome, we believe we also have a responsibility to act immediately to prevent an increase of gun deaths and to prevent the loss of more life in Texas," said Turner, who asked the governor to consider 16 gun bills, largely punishing people for carrying guns in certain places frequented by children or making it harder for certain people with a troublesome past from buying firearms.
A spokesman for Abbott did not respond to requests for comment.
The roundtable discussions come less than a week after Dimitrios Pagourtzis, 17, opened fire in Santa Fe High School, leaving a trail of carnage in the blue-collar town 30 miles south of Houston. Pagourtzis, who was reportedly bullied, killed 10 people and injured another 13 people Friday with his father's revolver and shotgun.
It was a little more than six months ago that Abbott was offering condolences to the people of Sutherland Springs after another mass shooting. In the massacre at a church near San Antonio, 23 were killed and 20 injured during when a 26-year-old man who previously served in the Air Force went on a rampage, shooting congregants at point-blank range after months of arguing with his mother-in-law.
Abbott's roundtable discussion on school safety begins Tuesday with a 23-member cadre mostly of government officials and leaders in law enforcement, plus five school district superintendents, a high school principal and an architect. The meeting is largely closed to the public. Attendees on other days are expected to include victims from Santa Fe and Sutherland Springs, as well as gun rights activists and people involved in education.
There's so far little consensus on how to prevent school shootings.
Abbott is entertaining ideas to speed up background checks, find strategies to keep guns out of the hands of people who are dangerous, beef up security at schools and pay attention to the links between mental illness and gun violence.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a Houston Republican, said he wants to explore limiting entrances to school buildings and encouraged parents to safely store their guns. He also caught heat for contending that school violence is an outgrowth of violent video games and movies, abortion, the breakup of families and cultural devaluing of life. He has also advocated for arming teachers, which is already allowed in Texas.
Rania Mankarious, Crime Stoppers of Houston CEO, has some of her own ideas, like trying to scale up it's program that offers a free and anonymous hotline students can use to call in tips about fellow students who plan on bringing a gun to school or otherwise hurting people. The program, which also includes educating students and adults about school safety, has helped remove nearly 300 weapons from Houston-area schools before they could be used against kids, she said.
"At the end of the day, these kids are the first line of intelligence, and unfortunately the first line of defense and the first targets," she said. "We've got to stop politicizing this, we've got to stop wasting time because another school shooting will happen."
Mike Ward contributed to this report.
Andrea Zelinski covers politics for the Houston Chronicle. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook. Send her tips at email@example.com.


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VRC Pro is a free to play R/C racing simulator for enthusiasts who want unlimited resources, non-stop practice and instant racing with anyone, anywhere on the planet. Recommended by over 40 industry-leading brands and top racers like multiple champion Ronald Völker, VRC Pro delivers authentic RC action anytime! Sign up and get into the race, and take your pick of loads of tracks, cars, upgrades, and more. The only way you can get a more realistic experience than VRC Pro involves batteries. Choose your scale, choose your car, hit the track, and show your stuff.
VRC Pro Key Features
Build Your Car – Build your own RC racer from a wide array of components. You get to choose everything from the body, to the type of powerplant – electric or nitro – to the type of tires you use. Test and tune your car until you can blow the doors off the competition! You can even get accessories like carrying cases, radio cases, and more.
Pick Your Track – A huge number of real world RC tracks are reproduced here! From MHS Raceway 1 in Carrollton, Texas, to European supertracks like Rhein-Main and Heemstede 1, you'll never lack for a place to race. Realistic tracks with realistic challenges mean you'll need to be the best you can be to win.
Rankings, Events, And More – Race in a huge number of special race events, scheduled races, series, and more. Whether you choose to race electric or nitro, there's always plenty to do and people to race. Can you climb through the ranks and win it all?
Related: Action, Racing, Steam
System requirements
- CPU:Hyperthreaded Intel CPU, AMD Athlon 64 CPU
- HDD:2 GB available space
- Video:256 MB Pixel Shader 2.0 graphics card (nVidia GeForce FX 5600 or ATI Radeon X600)


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Demonstrator Model
Included features: Buckskin interior package, secondary wall color – blue, Blue Ice lighting package, Sport Performance package (lifting strakes), in tube storage, Burano steering wheel upgrade, Garmin Striker 5 CV, 6 stereo speakers, battery selector switch, chrome recessed docklights, bow filler cushion, rectangle acrylic table, 2nd bimini top, Buckskin black stripe BTT (Better Than Teak) flooring, 4 quick release bouy holders, ski tow bar, stainless steel prop & mooring cover. Trailer additional $3,695. Plus destination, prep, tt&l.


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50s Are the New 40s
Ask, but don't get quite as much…
Fewer homes in London are let at above their asking price.
|Click to download as PDF
There's always a bit of negotiation on rents, just as with house sales, and when there is lots of demand for property the rent agreed is often above the initial asking price. But the latest data from Countrywide Lettings index shows that in Central London fewer homes are being let for above their asking price. Just 8 per cent of homes were let at above asking price, falling from 17 per cent in the same period last year. This is the lowest proportion seen in August since 2011. Greater London as a whole saw 13 per cent of homes let above asking price, 4 per cent lower than the same period last year.
Why is this? If property sales are easing one might expect there to be more demand for rental homes and hence a bigger proportion of lets over the asking price.
The answer is more supply. A combination of more supply as landlords rushed to buy property before the stamp duty surcharge came in and a change in housing market sentiment after the referendum means that supply has matched or grown faster than tenant demand.
In London and the South East the number of homes available to rent in August grew by 26 per cent and 22 per cent, respectively, compared with the same period last year. That compares with growth in tenant demand of just by 8 per cent in London and 3 per cent in the South East. Unlike the sales market where the commitment to a property is bigger, rental prices adapt very quickly to changes in market conditions and that means asking prices are finely tuned to tenant demand.
|Market Indicators


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The Signature Global Group is 21st Century Company of infrastructure and real estate development. The company was founded by a group of seasoned professionals with the aim of amalgamating the global standards and the quality of the Real Estate Industry in India. The group has profound experience of many decades in the financial service as well as in stock market. The promoters of the Signature Global Group have diversified the services of the group in order to cater the demands of the customers in a transparent manner.
The Signature Global Group has come in to the real estate sector via its subsidiaries, the Signature Global Developers Private Limited, the Signature Builders Private Limited and the Sarvpriya Securities Private Limited. Under Signature Global, brand names, these subsidiaries have plans of coming up with numerous real estate development project in the country in next few years. The Group emphasizes on core international values of responsibility and reliability and aims to bring these values in the Indian Real Estate Sector.
Government notify a Policy known as the Affordable Housing Policy 2013. This policy is made to encourage housing Projects where in apartments of predefined size are made available at predefined rates within a targeted time frame to deserving beneficiaries in urban housing market. Any project for which licence is granted under the present policy cannot be converted into a normal group housing colony under any situation and irrespective of whether or not it falls within the 20% residential sector area limit prescribed for group housing projects. Sale of apartments under this Project will be on Carpet Area basis. It means people have to pay for area only for which they actually use.
As per Affordable Housing Policy, the projects would be allowed in residential zones of notified development plans of various towns and cities. The license for such housing projects would be given on a first come first serve basis.
The maximum area for which such projects can be allowed in a development plan included 300 acres for Gurgaon, Faridabad, Panchkula, Panchkula Extension and Pinjore-Kalka, 150 acres for Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, Dharuhera, Bahadurgarh and Sohna and 75 acres for the rest of the development plans. In any residential sector not more than five per cent of the net planned area under residential zone can be allowed for projects under this policy.


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You want to get healthier so what do you do? Make some substitutes. It is that simple right? Just substitute brown sugar for the white you love so much. You'll oral and physical health will feel so much better. Well, this is not necessarily true. Dentists at Smile Care Dental say that the best way to improve your oral health is to refrain from eating all types of sugar. Yes, brown sugar may have a few more essential nutrients than white sugar, but it isn't really all that healthy.
Is Brown Sugar Nutritious?
Smile Care Dental tells us that brown sugar is the same as white sugar and is not really natural in most cases. Many producers simply mix white sugar with molasses to make brown. In some cases, it may even be real raw sugar, which is also brown, but not good for your teeth either because sugar comes from the syrup that sugar cane produces. Sugar is what is left when the water evaporates. Basically, all sugar is bad for your teeth.
Is Brown Sugar More Natural?
Brown sugar might be slightly better for your health than white sugar, but it is still sugar, and bacteria love it, so it is still not good for your teeth. Brown sugar may offer some nutrients and vitamins, the amount of the vitamins you ingest is very minute and won't give you important nutritional needs. In the eyes of bacteria, sugar is sugar and it is yummy. We all know that bacteria feed off of sugar of all types, and it is the bacteria that causes cavities. So, as far as your teeth go, even if this sugar is more natural, it causes increased oral bacteria growth, which in turn emits acid byproducts that cause plaque, gingivitis, periodontitis and the chances of getting other health problems. The solution is to avoid sugar of all types.
Calorie Content
Besides, Smile Care Dental also informed us that Brown sugar has approximately the same calories per serving as other sugars. This means it is not a good way to lower your calorie intake.
How Much is Too Much?
To keep you healthy you simply need to stop ingesting added sugars, whatever color they are, say the experts at Smile Care Dental.
Bottom Line
Smile Care Dental dentists know that it is difficult to give sugar up in its entirety. They do not ask you to eliminate it from your diet. However, you do need to minimize the quantity you ingest. And when you do indulge do so at a specific time. Prevent yourself from constant snacking or sipping of sugary beverages and foods. This is the worst thing you can do for your teeth. Remeber, if you do indulge in something sweet, be sure to brush your teeth afterward.
Dental hygiene can go a long way towards preventing the damage that sugar can do to your teeth. Visit your dentists for regular checkups to ensure that your oral health is in the best possible shape it can be.


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Umami = Great Taste
For thousands of years, scientific wisdom had it that the human tongue can detect four main "tastes": sweet, salty, sour, and bitter. In 1996, scientists proved that a fifth taste, called umami (pronounced oo-MA-mee), is also detectable by human taste receptors.
Umami is usually associated with high-protein foods such as meat, but is also present in seafood, many vegetables, wine, and even green tea. Worldwide understanding of umami is new, but food with umami has been around forever.
Chef Escoffier's Veal Stock: Full of Umami
Many culinary students know that in the 1880s, world-famous French chef Auguste Escoffier revolutionized the culinary world by creating veal stock (veal bones, water, wine, and seasonings, intensified by reduction). The stock had a deep, rich flavor unlike anything Parisians had ever tasted. This flavor was umami. <
How Umami Got Its Name
Early in the 20th century, a Japanese chemist named Kikunae Ikeda ate a bowl of soup containing seaweed and noticed that its deliciousness could not be called sweet, salty, sour, or bitter. Ikeda called the taste umami, Japanese for "delicious," conducted experiments, and discovered that the flavor was the result of a high concentration of glutamate in the seaweed. He went on to develop crystallized monosodium glutamate, which--as MSG--is still a popular flavor enhancer.
Umami Taste Receptors Help Us Survive
In 1996, American researchers discovered that the human tongue has taste receptor cells created especially to detect umami. Scientists believe that umami is what tells humans to eat and enjoy protein, which is necessary for survival.
So for chefs, culinary students, and foodies, the good news is that human beings are designed to love pizza loaded with umami-rich foods--aged cheese, cured meats, tomatoes, and mushrooms. It's beautiful thing!
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
National Public Radio
Umami Information Center
Wall Street Journal


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Mamah Bouton Borthwick was murdered in August 1914 at Taliesin, the home she shared with Frank Lloyd Wright. Since her death, as she did in life, Mamah has struggled to understand the circumstances of her relationships and how a woman's own desires can be reconciled to the larger goals of womankind and society at large. Join us for this dramatic portrayal of a dynamic figure, presented by Ellie Carlson.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: March 17Art Excursions presents "The Monuments Men"
Later Event: July 21Women of WWI


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I have often wondered if this time of my life is a 'phase' or a 'season'. Often strangers and friends have said to me that perhaps it's just a phase I have to go through and then things will go back to how they were. It's all fine and dandy to have such a spiritual high in life and then return to what is normal. I'm re-reading the Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis and have run across a passage in it that illustrates such a quandary I find myself in repeatedly.
"A direct attack on his faith..persuading him that 'his religious phase ' is just going to die away like all his previous phases? The mere word 'phase' will likely do the trick. You keep him well fed on hazy ideas of Progress and Development and the Historical Point of View, I trust, and give him lots of modern biographies to read? The people in them are always emerging from Phases, aren't they?"
There was one distinct time I remember while in Africa and after I just found the school near the border of Kenya and Uganda. I had just spend about 4 weeks in Kenya and not all of it was a blessing like most think will happen when serving God. Often we never see the blessings that come from our labor but we have faith some good will come out of our strife. My health was poor and my spirits were low but I was hopeful God would still follow through on his promise to show me the widows and orphans he kept speaking of to me. It was an amazing story of how I found the school and if you care to read it again you can follow this link, Coincidences lead to truth.
But it was that very night after being blessed by God that the devil or evil one, however you want to label that unnerving feeling, decided to slither on it and put doubts in my head. He used some other foreigners visiting the area to put the word 'phase' into my heart. One lady said to me, 'maybe it's all a phase in your life and you can go back to graphic design, but it's great your doing what your doing'. Just like that the familiar doubt creeped back in and I went to bed crying and with a tight chest full of doubt and fear.
Maybe I am crazy!
Maybe I did go too far in all this hope and faith crap and now I am stuck in the middle of Africa with no one to bail me out. Literally alone in a jungle sleeping in a tent with the realization of how stupid all of this was. Since something like this happened before I tried to repeat words in my head, 'No it isn't a phase and that I experienced too many coincidences to not see them as miracles and guidance from God'. I like proof and God did give me proof that day and so I pushed back the evil thoughts of doubt and phases to eventually fall asleep in the pitch-black darkness of the night.
You see it's right when we learn something new or get closer to affirmation that God exists and that our purpose in life is simple. The evil will creep in and stomp on those hopes the instant we find answers to that small voice in our hearts. In Africa it is a full frontal attack on people because they don't have all the comforts of modern civilization to lull them into a 'normal' life of ease. I never want to return to thinking that 'religion is all very well up to a point'. Neither do I want to fall into the habit of thinking my religion is better than other religions when life comes down to Love and Compassion! Not taking what is given to us at face value in the bible and questioning it all and reading it and willingly asking God to explain it to me with any method he chooses. If it's by throwing me in a third world country with only faith than I'll do it because that is living…that is truly seeing faith in action…and it is about bring 'flavor' to the world we live in and not mediocrity. Likewise God can use people in modern life to make a difference in those around them even if its by living vicariously through those God says, 'Go', to.
Too often depression and sadness blinds our sight. It's easier to concentrate on doom and gloom than seeing they joy around us. Yesterday I asked for a blessing and to expand my territory. Those of you who know from past posts that is a prayer I use cautiously. It seems whenever I use it I am blessed that very day, but only when I truly ask with a heart seeking it.
My days are blurred between what is employment and what is a vacation in this journey of mine. Too often I refuse to accept a break out of guilt of did I do enough to deserve it. Running a tiny non-profit just getting off its feet is frustrating and time consuming but without set hours I can't tell which hours are for work and what is free time. Did I accomplish enough today to allow for fun tomorrow? Through my eyes I see little progress and insurmountable odds against me.
If I step back and list what God has done and what I have done I see progress. However, the progress wasn't by my doing. The benefit concert coming up was my cousin's idea after picking her brain. Or was it God using her? Next, were the 2 bands I found led to me by God or my own effort? Anyone can argue this in either direction but I can say I have no experience organizing this type of event and yet it's happening. God saw to it that I was put with the right people who also have faith and the skills needed. Relieving me of the heavy burden.
Perhaps life is about sharing what God can do to others through a actual actions. If so then I have another example of God working his agenda through me.
I prayed for a chance to sail out to buck island while on st Croix and he arranged one for me yesterday. Once on the sailboat I sat quietly since I knew few of the people going. As we sailed off one of the ladies on the boat started talking to me and I found out she used to be an executive director for a non profit and was in charge of grants and fundraising. Early this month I have been praying for people with fundraising skills and those with a passion for helping others. He answered it through a leisurely boat ride on crystal blue water one afternoon. So was I working or enjoying free time? Will this new connection lead to more support for Healing Eyes? I have no clue as I'm not in control …God is and I'm just hanging on for the ride.
I only pray now for strength to withstand the waves of doubt and grief as the journey becomes more perilous in my eyes but clearer through His.
In a month I'll be heading to Africa again. This time, however, I have no road map and no fellow ministry to rely on. Just a series of events leading up to the trip that have compiled a huge portfolio in God's favor.
I'm ever a skeptic and always questioning but I still can believe in something I can't see because it has worked out for the good so far. Why would it stop working now?:)
The island is my home for two weeks again. Strange being back here after Africa and experiencing so much while there. This land feels calm and peaceful compared to Africa. I remember when I first came to the island I was scared and unsure of the differences I saw. It seemed dangerous and forboding. Now it seems tame compared to Africa
There always is perspective on places once your eyes are opened to more.
The Whoa benefit concert is still on for September 19th in Michigan and I have awesome volunteers working on it as I sit here. Wondering why I'm here and what God will do this time. Already he introduced me to a couple who has a sailboat at the airport. Already he has provided a car for my travels. And above all that he has blessed me kids that missed me and beg to see me. How insane is that! A few years ago I would never spend a day with kids! I was in the misery of fighting cancer with my husband and watching him starve each day. His bones whitheree away and his soul threatened to be swallowed by the pit. Those last months were hard on us both and many regrets were made but even now God loves and has meaning for me. So crazy to think I couldn't stand God most of my adult life and now I am living solely on Him.
I do hope others will start to take up there cross with me and see the pain we hide ourselves from. So much need out there and so little time. Lives are short! And so much flavor to be added to those we meet each day through our own testimonies and search for meaning in our strife.
Join me. Join Us at Healing Eyes to do what we need to do. Stand up and Do something for the powerless and distraught. There voices are muffled by the evil around us that we can't see. Lulled into our comforts of life and blinded by our own pain. Oh what beauty can be lived if we each take a moment to see the person next to us and ask..How are you really?
If your in Michigan sept 19 at 6pm come hear music and hear more of our passion. Bid on some awesome items for auction and make a difference in the Flavor of the world around us.
Join our Facebook page too and stay up to date on events and auctions. Post your Whoa Selfie today too.
This is insane and beyond possible. But I believe it IS POSSIBLE! When was the last time you BELIEVED in something when no one else did? When did you wave your hands in the air and beg for others to be excited like you? When did you see a vision and no on else did until it was proven to be possible?
When did you have to do something uncomfortable but found the strength to pull it off?
Now I like facts and sound instant gratification with proven results. Holding a benefit concert with unknown possibilities should be nerve racking BUT I know it's going to work out because it already is. What?
I have a venue and I have a team of volunteers ready to pull it off. Need more proof that this is more than a whim and a lame fundraiser? Ok! I've collected several silent auction items all by walking into businesses and asking even though it made me extremely uncomfortable and scared. Sometimes we have to STEP out on a ledge and jump to see what happens…and Sometimes when we do it may just surprise us all.
So! Keep on believing and Keep on dreaming because I've seen it happen too many times where things just FALL into place. Although everything around us may crumble and life gets smashed on the rocks by the waves of grief and loss we still can find those calm moments where a bit of Hope shines through.
Why does this Whoa Benefit Concert matter? Because we all need to show support when others are beaten down and cast aside and because it's time to Support Healing Eyes and move this Project 6'16 forward in a BIG way. So come on out September 19th and experience a MIRACLE and hear some good music. You may even catch a bit of the PASSION behind this mission of a little widow and some little orphans far far away.
The cover charge is a DONATION of $8-$10 and we do hope you can help change some lives by participating in the launch of Project 6'16!
When you make the decision to go to church there are a lot of things that deter you from following through. I don't know about you but I know I couldn't stand going to church for many many years when I was married. Few factors played a role in this fear of churches though. One being it feels like when you first walk in everyone stares at you and is judging you on your appearance and your morals. They don't know you and you don't know them but in your head you can feel the judgment piercing your thoughts. You may go there with some built up pain over life and events and feel as if anything you have done is far worse than what any of these other church goers have done, again judgment sinks in.
Second, you know you'll listen to a sermon about something that may or may not cause you to cry. Which means others will now stare at you some more as you feel more and more isolated from those around you. Then not only do you feel judged but then you are judging others because you are thinking they must be better than you because they go to church all the time. And why aren't they crying if you are crying, their has to be something wrong with you then.
Maybe no on else thinks like this?
I am starting my day today with hope. Ironic as saying that just now reminded me of the baby we lost that was named Hope and how Andy's last words was he was going to take care of her in heaven. The past can never truly escape us but we can choose to live in the Now and let go of past pain and guilt, otherwise, life will be rather morbid and angry.
I start today with Hope. Hope for the benefit concert. Hope for little Billah in Uganda. Hope for Healing Eyes. Hope that somehow I'll get some shampoo as my hotel size samples has exhausted itself.
If you fear churches but still want to come to the benefit concert than trust me when I say there will be no boring sermon and no judging stares. It's a building full of people who have the same curiosity over life very far way and what we all should have a desire to do, helping orphans and widows who have reached the end of their hope in a series of unfortunate events.
Can't make it on Sept 19th because your out of state? You still can support Healing Eyes by donating $8 for an absentee ticket. that is about 28,600 shillings in Uganda and would pay for one night lodging in October when I return to those orphans and widows in a distant land.
Don't judge an event by it's cover and never doubt that when God says DO something that he won't follow through.
What do you think of when you hear Benefit Concert or orphans in Africa? Lots of cliche's I bet and also completely over done publicity on needing to help the starving in Africa. I know it's real and I also found photos of kids starving and all the hopelessness there too overwhelming to even think I could do something. Well that was 3 years ago back when life seemed simpler. But life can still be SIMPLE, really! If we just take a moment to view one child who captures our hearts and then connect with a few more as we open our hearts to more we can see how plausible it is to help the helpless. Orphans are supposed to be cared for and widows should step out and take charge. Through our weakness God can shine through and do all the work.
Case in point..
Tonight I met with some awesome people about the benefit concert. Never met them before and was going on a leap of faith it would turn out beneficial and that it was the right direction for Healing Eyes. I even ordered the post card mailers with there address on it for the venue before meeting them. Leap of Faith here we go.
What happened?
Well I was shown again how small I am in the grand scheme of things and that God already had it covered. I sat back and listened to this group of professionals plan out each part of the event, down to permits and parking and even filling holes in the grass. I just had to share my passion and my story as to why I am doing all of this and sit back and let God do what he had already laid ahead of me. Silly Sarah…worrying about how impossible a concert would be. It's all taken care of and is definitely a GO!
If you want to see miracles than just come on by Sept 19th from 6-8pm and hear some good music and listen to me share my passion again for what we found in Africa to sink our teeth into as a non-profit. It really is amazing and so not me behind it all.
I'm just a little widow who gave it all up to find my first love again after my life was taken away…finding it amidst one small girl by a waterfall and hundreds of orphans luring me back home.
Go To Whoa a Benefit Concert to order your ticket and sit front row to a miracle in the making
If life is a series of events than who can say each moment is supposed to be happy and free? If hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life then should we always HOPE for more? Can we hope for more than we feel worthy of and why does every step forward feel more impossible than the previous?
You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid…
Is the bible a nice 'story' or a test of our faith? For too long I have played it safe on this blog and have censored my constant questions in my head. It may seem I have it all figured out and my faith is strong but I am reminded daily how I forget easily what faith is. Right now I am censoring my own thoughts so I don't jinx somehow the results of success. If i begin to doubt myself than others will and then the whole thing falls apart. Power of Attraction!
Are the most successful people always confident in themselves and only ATTRACT success?
Do photos of sad kids ATTRACT hope or despair? I have a longing that Healing Eyes won't crumble and that it will grow stronger. Longing to help the neglected and forgotten. Longing to see hope return to these little EYES.
…longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
September 19 6-8pm join Healing Eyes for it's first Annual Whoa Benefit Concert. Location: 1100 Henze Road
Comstock Park, MI. Discounted tickets now for $8 or suggested donation of $10 ($25 family) at the door.
Click the photo above to donate today
Check out the T-Shirt Ordering Page
There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
Tears drying on their face.
No Bravery
Houses burnt beyond repair.
The smell of death is in the air.
A woman weeping in despair says,
No Bravery
There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
But no one asks the question why….
Those lyrics are from the song by James Blunt called 'No Bravery'. I have seen children with arms in the air and tears stained on there faces. There faces lit up with hope! There faces beaten down by despair.
There ARE children standing here with outstretched arms waiting for someone to do something when they can not.
If not us than Who? There is another song called 'Do Something' by Matthew West. Why doesn't God do something? He said I did, I CREATED You!
Can you help me, a nobody sitting in a one bedroom apartment with doubts and fears like you? I want to find at least 20 people to give $20 each so I can go back to Africa in October with the school fees for little Billah and William in hand. So I can go to Billah's mother and say she doesn't have to be afraid anymore because her youngest child will stay in school, get the needed supplies, and have the prayers of hundreds of people back in the United States. That William will be able to go to boarding school and improve his self confidence in school and not be lost amidst the hundred of other faces in the poor village school. With these 2 kids we can Do Something and begin a transformation in there lives and the other little lives yet to be found on my travels.
Share $20 and I will show YOU what Doing Something can really do!
Healing Eyes, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization based in Western Michigan. If you would like to partner with Healing Eyes on a one time or monthly basis, please make your checks payable to Healing Eyes, Inc. and mail them to 4160 Blue Heron Dr SE, Apt 302, Kentwood, MI 49512.
Thank you. If you don't have a PayPal Account Don't Worry it's not required look to the bottom left side after clicking the Donate button, where it says "Don't have a PayPal Account".


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If your goal is to quickly find an apartment somewhere in Alamo Heights, you will find all of the best information on apartment rental websites. The information is categorized in columns, along with search functions, making it easy for you to find what you need. If you need a three bedroom two bath apartment, one that is priced at around $1500 a month, you can do this search and easily find several in that price range. It also makes it easy to get special deals that may not be available to the general public. By getting a rental through these websites, you can also take advantage of special offers that they will give you just for signing up through their website because they will earn a commission.
How To Locate These Websites Online
Locating websites that offer apartment rentals is very simple to accomplish. You could find yourself in a situation where you have too many listings to choose from. You can simply organize that information into a column, place the least expensive rentals at the top, narrow your list so that you can ultimately choose one of them. The special deals that you may get include a free month rent or discounts on the rent for several months. They may even waive your last month rent requirement, or give you a special bonus such as a prepaid credit card worth hundreds of dollars.
Making The Right Choice For Your Apartment
Many of us are often motivated to go with that which is the lowest price, even though it may not be in the best neighborhood. You need to consider where it is located when choosing an apartment to live in, something that you may be able to do if you are not on an extremely tight budget. If you can save a couple hundred dollars a month, yet you will be quite a distance from work, you could pay more because of the cost of gas. All of these factors need to be considered as you are selecting apartments in Alamo Heights San-Antonio that are currently available.
After you have had a chance to look at the many different apartments in Alamo Heights San-Antonio, you should be able to rent one within the next few days. It won't be long until you are living at an apartment that you love, centrally located, and large enough for you and your family.


text: Hi There – My name is Olwen and I create unique websites for small business owners. I understand how confusing it can be when you first decide you need a website. How do you go about doing that? What should you expect? How do you get started? You don't have a lot of extra money to throw around so you want to spend it wisely but you don't have enough information to be sure you are doing that. I started this Blog because I had a lot of questions from people in the same position as you. My goal is to help you learn what you need to know without having to take a course in computer jargon and double-speak. I believe that an informed decision is a better decision. I am always happy to answer your questions so ask away!


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Accessible holiday accommodations in Czech Republic
Varied locations such as Hradec Kralove, Giant Mountains, Carlsbad or Trebon – The Czech Republic makes a holiday as easy as possible when you choose an accessible and barrier free holiday with us, whether you want close access to amenities or a specious living space. Equipped for disabled people in many places, the country also establishes itself as a destination for people with disabilities. Landscapes from a picture book and the warm hospitality of the locals, make the travelers happy to come back. Anyone who has ever discovered the beauty of the Czech Republic usually returns. There is accommodation for wheelchair access and low beds and sides, and also accommodation for those who just would rather not have stairs to deal with on their holiday.
No compromises when you book a holiday in Czech Republic
Lying in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic is a country steeped in history. It's been populated for thousands of years and is a land dotted with castles, medieval towns, beautiful mountains, ancient ruins, and world-class wineries. When you book a barrier free holiday in Prague you can choose whether you want to stay near a bustling city or whether you want an accessible holiday home in the Czech countryside. Food in Prague is relatively cheap – which means whether you want to eat in your own holiday home or go out to eat is not a problem.
Go ahead and check out our partner


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How can one possibly sum up the beauty, goodness and splendor of Capri in one measly blog post? It's simply not possible. But nonetheless, I have to do my best to tell the story.
I had been looking forward to Capri more than any other stop on my Mediterranean Cruise. The pictures I'd seen were incredible, and I couldn't wait to experience it for myself. And at the top of my list of things to see was the Blue Grotto- supposedly one of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations on the island.
The second we stepped off the ferry I was in love with Capri. The rugged coastline, the cobalt blue waters, and everything else around me was breathtaking. I immediately inquired about the tours of the Blue Grotto. Much to my disappointment, there was over a 3 hour wait (and that didn't include the boat ride there or back). There was no way we would have time to tour it. We hadn't eaten lunch. We wanted to take a boat tour of the island and to see the panoramic views in Anacapri. We simply didn't have time to do everything, so we opted to do all the other things on our list and shake off the fact that the Blue Grotto wouldn't be one of them. I was disappointed, but then again it was pretty hard to stay disappointed about anything for long when you're somewhere so beautiful.
We hopped on another boat to tour the rest of the island. We bounced over wave after wave, watching the beautiful scenery passing by. We sailed under I Faraglioni, through various grottos, and alongside ostentatious yachts. Every sight outdid the one before. It was all spectacular.
After the boat ride we took an open air cab up to Anacapri, which was equally the most beautiful and terrifying ride of my life. I've been afraid in cabs in all sorts of cities. New York seems bad until you're in Spain. Spain seems bad until you're in Rome. And this cab just made every other cab ride in the world child's play.
If it were even possible, Anacapri outdid any view we had already seen. Not only could we see the sparkling coastline below, but flowers were growing on vines up the stucco walls and giant lemons hung heavily on the branches of lemon tress (and you could smell the pungent citrus every time the breeze would pick up). Just when I thought it couldn't get anymore beautiful, we rode the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro. I sincerely am lacking words to sufficiently capture the beauty we saw around us. All I can say is that I've never seen anything like it in my entire life.
After soaking up every ounce of the magnificent view, we did as our boat captain instructed and cabbed from Anacapri to Al Capri for lunch. I've eaten lots of delicious food in my life. And I've seen some pretty spectacular views. But the Neapolitan style pizza on the cliff overlooking the isle of Capri hands-down beats any other meal and any other view that I've ever experienced. No comparison. They both take the cake. So needless to say, I really went for it. I had a caprese salad (again, the best I've ever had). I ate an entire pizza. I had 2 glasses of crisp, dry, local white wine. And I washed it all down with a shot of limoncello.
At this point I was definitely buzzed and I was loving life. More than I know how to express in words here. I didn't think it was possible for life to get any better than it was in that very moment.
After lunch we cabbed back to the bottom of the island again. Suddenly, a local tour guide approached me and was selling private tours to the Blue Grotto. We had to be on the ferryboat that was leaving in just over an hour. "I heard there was a 3 hour wait today" I questioned him. "No wait with me bella" he coaxed me. "I give you private tour. No line for you. 35 Euro- I take you now" I didn't even blink. "Let's go" I told him.
We started following him and my brother pulled my arm. "Whitney, we have to be ON THE BOAT in an hour. As in it's leaving then. If we mess this up and miss our cruise, that's a couple thousand dollar mistake."
He was probably right. Maybe if I hadn't had 2 glasses of wine and 2 shots of limoncello (I took another one at a gift shop before the tour guide approached me) I would have used my common sense. But I've also learned this year that God loves to come through when we least expect it and show off for us. And for whatever reason, I knew that this was the case in this particular moment.
"We'll be fine" I told him. Still, he didn't let up so easily. "I don't have any more Euro, Whitney." I handed the man my credit card. "Max- we are in Capri for less than a full day. We have a chance to go inside the Blue Grotto when we didn't think we would. Can you guarantee we'll be back here again? If so, I'll play by the rules. But I can't. So forgive me if I sound reckless or irresponsible, but I'm swiping my credit card. I'll pay for both of us. Hell, I'll pay for our flights to Barcelona if we miss the boat. But we're going to the Blue Grotto"
A few minutes later we were in a tiny, inflatable boat (which I'm pretty sure could pop from a simple safety pin) going at least 55mph. We bounced over every wave as I got splashed over and over. My white dress was getting dirt all over it from the floor I was sitting on. But I didn't care. I had vino and limoncello pumping through my blood and was moments away from the Blue Grotto.
A few minutes later we were surrounded by boats. It was chaos. Row boats. Motor boats. Yachts. Everything. We buzzed around the cove until a row boat pulled up to our side and we jumped in and paddled towards the entrance.
For the 3 or 4 minutes that we sat inside the Blue Grotto, life stood still. It was reveling in a moment that I didn't think was going to happen. It was sitting in awe of the sparkling blue waters that were shining brightly, lighting up a dark cave. It was literally a miracle happening before my eyes. Not just the natural wonder of bright, beautiful light illuminating the darkness, but the fact that I was there against all the odds that had been stacked against me.
I've come to believe that God lives for moments like this. Moments we didn't see coming where he get's to show off for us. And he reminds us that these are the days. I can't guarantee what next year, next month or even next week will hold. Hell, I don't even know what I'm having for breakfast tomorrow. But I can believe confidently that there is so much magnificence constantly unfolding around me. And he's got it all under control.
This was a moment where I got something that I really wanted. But it didn't happen according to my plan. This isn't the first time this has happened to me recently. And quite frankly, I wish circumstances back home could be as posh. Because even downgrading about 10 levels from this would still put me in Naples eating heavenly pizza. But that's certainly not the case. Either way, that day in Capri gave me a beautiful reminder to take back with me when I'm feeling stuck or discouraged. It reminded me that you're usually not going to get what you want in the context that you have in mind. But God loves to come through in the 11th hour. He loves to give you the desire of your heart, and then some, all when you don't expect it. And the adventure he takes you on along the way leads you to see some other incredible things that you never would have otherwise.
Had I gone to the Blue Grotto on my own agenda, I would have planned carefully, and it would have required me to shave off time that I spent in Anacapri at the magnificent viewpoint. Or eating one of the best meals of my life at Al Capri. But instead, I got to experience all the above. How lucky am I?
These are the days. The ones where we have the chance to experience glory. The adventure we're on isn't necessarily the one that we would have planned. But I truly believe that it's one that will ultimately reveal more beauty, more splendor, and more joy than we could have ever schemed ourselves. So be ready for adventure. Jump at the opportunity to go where God leads you. And expect a lot of magnificence along the way.


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You can't protect yourself against threats you can't see. Decrypt traffic to reveal encrypted threats so the firewall can protect your network against them.
Palo Alto Networks firewalls can decrypt and inspect traffic to provide visibility into threats and to control protocols, certificate verification, and failure handling. Decryption can enforce policies on encrypted traffic so that the firewall handles encrypted traffic according to your configured security settings. Decrypt traffic to prevent malicious encrypted content from entering your network and sensitive content from leaving your network concealed as encrypted traffic. Enabling decryption can include preparing the keys and certificates required for decryption, creating decryption profiles and policies, and configuring decryption port mirroring.
- Decryption Overview
- Decryption Concepts
- Prepare to Deploy Decryption
- Define Traffic to Decrypt
- Configure SSL Forward Proxy
- Configure SSL Inbound Inspection
- Configure SSH Proxy
- Configure Server Certificate Verification for Undecrypted Traffic
- Decryption Exclusions
- Enable Users to Opt Out of SSL Decryption
- Temporarily Disable SSL Decryption
- Configure Decryption Port Mirroring
- Verify Decryption
- Decryption Broker
- Activate Free Licenses for Decryption Features
Related Documentation
Decryption Concepts
Learn about outbound and inbound SSL decryption, SSH Proxy decryption, Decryption Mirroring, and the keys and certificates that make decryption possible. ...
Create a Decryption Policy Rule
Decryption policy rules granularly define the traffic to decrypt or not to decrypt based on the source, destination, service (application port), and URL Category. ...
Decryption Overview
Decryption Overview The Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Secure Shell (SSH) encryption protocols secure traffic between two entities, such as a web server and a ...
Create a Decryption Profile
Attach Decryption profiles to Decryption policy rules to control the protocol versions, algorithms, verification checks, and session checks the firewall accepts for the traffic defined ...
Configure SSL Inbound Inspection
SSL Inbound Inspection decryption enables the firewall to see potential threats in inbound encrypted traffic destined for your servers and apply security protections against those ...
SSL Forward Proxy
SSL Forward Proxy decryption decrypts outbound traffic so the firewall can protect against threats in the encrypted traffic by proxying the connection between the client ...
Deploy SSL Decryption Using Best Practices
Following SSL Decryption deployment best practices help to ensure a smooth, prioritized rollout and that you decrypt the traffic you need to decrypt to safeguard ...
How to Decrypt Data Center Traffic
Use SSL Decryption to inspect all encrypted network traffic and make hidden threats visible. ...
Policies > Decryption
Policies > Decryption You can configure the firewall to decrypt traffic for visibility, control, and granular security. Decryption policies can apply to Secure Sockets Layer ...


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- Home
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Product Description
Comp-Tac Infidel IWB Carry Holster
We produce products for the most popular make and model pistols, S&W, Glock, Springfield, H&K, Sig Sauer and many more. Please select your pistol from the Make and Model drop down!
The Infidel is an all-Kydex Inside the waistband holster with a modular mounting design. Designed to be worn behind the hip, this holster allows the user to change mounting options to fit their desired needs.
The Infidel all-Kydex body provides a rigid material that is custom fit to each firearm and maintains its shape even with the pistol un-holstered. The smooth, low friction surface allows for a fast draw and easy one-handed re-holstering of the firearm. The all-Kydex body will not bend or stretch over time and is impervious to sweat and solvents.
The Infidel Belt Clip is a Nylon clip that slides quickly and easily over the belt. The holster can be ordered with a 1.5" or 1.75" clip.
Additional Mounting Options Available:
These mounts are listed under Holster Parts and Hardware.
- Infidel Belt Loops are top grain cow hide leather that provides additional security by wrapping around your belt and snapping closed. The belt loops may be combined with the Infidel CTAC strut for additional support.
- The Infidel CTAC Strut is a Standard Clip and leather tab that can be mounted to the rear of the holster, to provid two points of attachment for extra stability. Comp-Tac recommends that the strut be used with either the Belt Clip or Belt loops. This option helps to distribute the weight of larger guns for more comfort. Sold separately under Holster Parts and hardware.
- The Infidel Shirt Tucker Strut allows you to use your Infidel as a tuckable holster. The strut is a rear-mounted attachment that places the weight of the gun forward of the clip. Infidel Belt Clips and Infidel Belt Loops are not needed when using the shirt tucker strut. It is designed to be used alone. Sold separately under Holster Parts and hardware.


text: Handel's ability at writing concerti and instrumental sonatas leaves us a lot to admire. In The Unknown Handel, Jed Wentz and company bring to us a collection of Handel's "concerti" for winds (HWV 399, 404, 288, 287, 339, 390b). There's some "arranging" going on, and not all of the pieces are known specifically as "concerti," but what remains are some solidly-wrought pieces. It wouldn't be surprising that the transverse flute plays a major role in this CD. The performances all take on quick tempi in the fast movements; none of the slow ones linger for too long, either. I am not impressed with the sound quality, overall, it sounds "compressed." I purchased this from Amazon's MP3 store; who knows, that could be a part of the problem. Headphones adds something to the listening experience. Yet, the musicians here are in top-form. I therefore recommend this release if you've liked any of this composer's "Concerti Grossi" for strings (op. 3, op. 6), but want to try something for the color of wind instruments. You no doubt may recognize a few of the tracks (HWV 287 is built upon an organ concerto), but my guess is that many of the tracks are indeed new to you, too. Interestingly, they include one of Telemann's Concerti a Quattro. Since I didn't buy the recording with liner notes, I am not sure why, but it's a nice little folly away from all the other Handel.


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The Canfield Day and Night is our first watch built with an aperture which displays the rising and setting of the sun and moon. This function, displayed on the dial of the watch, is powered by the GMT movement which turns a disc 360 degrees once every 24 hours to present stunning graphics of the sun and the moon. Built using a top loaded case construction, The Canfield's refined minute track and slim, diamond-cut hands are distinctly visible in the sophisticated open dial viewing area. The white mother of pearl dial is set in a polished PVD gold case with coin edge detail, wire lugs, and swing lug construction. A slim blush leather strap with a vintage square polished PVD gold buckle completes the look. No, we certainly don't think it's too much to ask for the sun and the moon.
|Stainless steel with PVD Gold plating, and double-domed sapphire crystal.
|Mother of Pearl dial with Super-LumiNova hands.
|Hours, minutes, seconds, and day/night function.
|Argonite 515 quartz movement with Swiss and other imported parts.
|Watch Strap
|Blush Essex strap hand sewn in the United States from premium leather.
|Size Guide
|Click here to view and print.
|Case Back Plate
|Signature Iconic Caseback Plate with Laser-Etched Serial Number
|Case Size
|Case Thickness
|Argonite 515
|Movement Type
|Dial Color Detail
|White Mother of Pearl
|Band Material
|Leather Strap
|Strap Length
|110mm x 65mm
|Strap Width
|Strap Color Detail
|Blush Essex
|Case Material
|Stainless Steel
|Case Plating
|PVD Gold
|Case Finish
|Top Ring Plating
|PVD Gold
|Top Ring Finish
|Crown Plating
|PVD Gold
|Crown Finish
|Crown Construction
|Buckle Size
|Buckle Plating
|PVD Gold
|Depth Rating
|Double-domed Sapphire
|Battery Life
|EOL Technology
|Click here to view warranty information on page 18
We believe that products should be made well and built to last. That's why we're proud to offer watches that are made to last a lifetime or longer. To back up that claim, we have an unmatched quality standard: every Shinola watch is guaranteed for life under the terms and conditions of our warranty.
We're able to offer this guarantee because we source only the best available watch components from around the globe and rigorously examine our watches at each step of production to ensure every timepiece shipped from our factory operates with flawless precision. After all, there's a certain satisfaction in knowing your Shinola timepiece can be passed down to the next generation, and our limited lifetime warranty ensures it will be.
For more information about The Shinola Guarantee, please visit Watch Repair.
The high-accuracy quartz movement—hand-assembled in Detroit —drives the hours, minutes, seconds, calendar aperture and day/night functions with precision. It is built in Detroit with Swiss and other imported parts.
A polished PVD gold case with coin edge detail featuring a classic pumpkin crown and sapphire crystal. Sapphire is second only to the diamond in hardness and much more durable than mineral glass when it comes to protecting from scratches, so your watch will only become more beautiful with time.
A white mother of pearl dial featuring a stunning day and night aperture sets this watch apart from any other in our collection. Other features include a refined minute track and slim, diamond-cut hands for a truly sophisticated look.
Soft and sweet, this slim blush strap in Essex leather fastens with a vintage round-edge square buckle to complete the look. The strap is removable and customizable with the purchase of an additional strap.
Built from strong cherry wood, every Shinola watch box is designed to last for generations.


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Deliver this gift hamper from Park Avenue containing 1 Park Avenue Deo Talc 100 gms, 1 shaving Brush, 1 Razor, 1 Shaving cream 70 gms, 1 Park Avenue Luxury Soap 125 gms,1 Park Avenue After Shave 50 ml and 1 Park Avenue Deodorant 150 ml along with one travel pouch.
Price - Rs. 1345
Delivery Time: 2-3 Working Days Depending on Locations
Make It Extra Special With Below Listed Add-On


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Hello! You've found one of our posts featuring select real estate listings in the Southwest Michigan area; more specifically homes for sale in Berrien County, Cass County, and Van Buren County. One lake house and at least two school-friendly locations guaranteed. Click the addresses to see the listings.
Looking for our Home Page?
Here are today's listings:
Berrien Springs
205 W Hamilton Street, Berrien Springs MI 49103
This charming 3 bed + 1 full bath home sits on a wooded lot in a location convenient to downtown Berrien Springs. Home features many updates including remodeled bathroom, replacement windows, roof reshingled in 2014, the addition of the third bedroom off of the dining area, new flooring in all above grade rooms, newer gas hot water heater, new patio door and light fixtures, fresh interior and exterior paint. Home includes all kitchen appliances. Back patio area is fenced and there is a storage shed in the back yard.
Home is in Berrien County and the Berrien Springs school district, and is less than 5 minutes from Sylvester Elementary School, Mars Elementary School, Berrien Springs Middle School, Berrien Springs High School, and the Discovery Academy.
You can contact Berrien Property about this home at 269-695-9595, or click the links to browse through more homes for sale in Berrien Springs, Michigan, or more homes for sale in Berrien County MI.
71217 Five Points Road, Edwardsburg MI 49112
An ideal home for horse lovers! This 3 bed + 1 full bath ranch is situated on a 10.02 acre lot including 7 fenced acres and 3 acres of woods. Home has a back covered patio, a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Property includes a 36 x 34 pole barn with a 12 x 12 horse stall + electric and water. Convenient to both Indiana and Michigan, just 1/4 of a mile from the state line.
Home is in Cass County and the Edwardsburg school district, and is within 8 minutes of Eagle Lake Elementary School, and within 15 minutes of Edwardsburg Primary School, Edwardsburg Intermediate School, Edwardsburg Middle School, and Edwardsburg High School.
You can reach Berrien Property about this home at 269-695-9595, or search for more homes for sale in Edwardsburg, Michigan, or more homes for sale in Cass County MI.
Lake House of the Day
Lake Michigan
46350 Blue Star Highway, Coloma MI 49038
228 feet of Lake Michigan beach frontage awaits the buyer of this 4 bed + 2 full bath, 2 story home on nearly 6 acres. Home features custom wood detailing throughout, hardwood floors, a breathtaking double sided stone fireplace, spacious bedrooms, soaring main level ceilings, and phenomenal views from nearly every room. Enjoy those views from the house, or get out there and enjoy the sandy beach, just steps away on a very low bluff.
Located in Van Buren County, about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours from Chicago! Give Berrien Property a call today at 269-695-9595 so we can help make this your very own beach getaway.
If you'd like to keep shopping around, we have a few more links that might come in handy. You can check out more homes for sale in Van Buren County MI, more Lake Michigan homes for sale, or more Waterfront Homes in Southwest Michigan.
We also have pages of Lakefront Berrien County Homes, Lakefront Cass County Homes, and Lakefront Van Buren County Homes. You can modify the parameters of any saved search to help narrow down the results.
And you can always head back to our Home Page or our Advanced Search Page to get started on finding that perfect piece of Southwestern Michigan real estate.


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Hong Kong Disappoints With Official Bitcoin Warning
There was much hope that Hong Kong will not turn against Bitcoin as China, and more recently Taiwan, did. But that may have been more delusional rather than optimistic. Hong Kong seems to have followed suit by issuing an official warning against investing in Bitcoin. It may have just been a warning and not an outright ban, but if history is anything to go by then this may be the start of an anti-Bitcoin drive.
Waning Asian Sentiment
It has been a tumultuous month for Bitcoiners in Southeast Asia. China is the leader in the Asian Bitcoin scene with its large number of users and ability for the Bitcoin community to almost instantly influence prices of the cryptocurrency. When Chinese sentiment turned against Bitcoin in early December 2013, Bitcoin prices plummeted and halved within days of the Chinese ban on banks and third party payment gateways.
Once the dust settled, Asian Bitcoiners pinned their hopes on Taiwan and Hong Kong. These two island nations are commercial hubs in southeast Asia although not entirely independent of China. By the end of December 2013, both Taiwan and Hong Kong were somewhat silent about the Bitcoin issue and this was hoped to be a sign of a permissive rather than prohibitory stance on the cryptocurrency.
The excitement of Bitcoiners in China and surrounds was palpable. Bitcoin prices rose again. Bitcoin ATM manufacturer Robocoin announced that it was sending its machines off to Taiwan and Hong Kong, further opening up the Asian market. However, Taiwan suddenly turned against Bitcoin which was not entirely unexpected. It issued an official warning at the start of the new year and recently stated that it would not approve Bitcoin ATM's in the country.
Hong Kong was the final glimmer of hope – but it seems this may have been premature.
Yes To ATMs But Now A Warning
First Hong Kong said that it will not oppose Bitcoin ATMs. Authorities there viewed it as a vending machine rather than an automated bank teller as traditional ATMs are seen. This was good news for Robocoin and local Bitcoiners. The optimism extended beyond Hong Kong's borders as the island nation is popular in Asia for its business-friendly environment.
However, Bitcoiners may now have something to worry about. Today, Hong Kong's Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Caejer Chan Ka-keung, issued an official warning to the public stressing that the prices of Bitcoin are largely based on speculation and can fluctuate drastically. This is not an unusual warning from a government official and has been heard across the globe from different nations.
What is significant though is that these official warnings tend to signal something more sinister in time, especially in southeast Asia. China has set the modus operandi or sorts. First come warnings. Then come restrictions on financial services providers. And the screws tighten further just short of an outright ban on the cryptocurrency. The restrictions alone practically shut down Bitcoin trading in some countries and discourages newcomers to the cryptocurrency scene.
So is Hong Kong going to follow suit to its counterparts like China and more recently Taiwan? It may be too early to say but there is no doubt many Bitcoiners who are now nervous. As the noose tightens, it may be time for Bitcoiners in China and surrounds to look further south to nations like Singapore. The tiny country not only stated that it will not interfere with Bitcoin in the country but has even announced ways in which it will tax the system – an otherwise positive stance from a government.


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Seven Useful Lawn Care Tips
Tweet Top Tips to Save Money on Landscaping As any homeowner knows, landscaping can cost much more than one might initially expect. You can save money and have a beautifully landscaped home by doing more yourself and with these tips: 1. Hire a consultant – Hiring a landscape designer can be an …+ read more
Should Landlords be Friends with their Tenants?
Tweet Most of us like to be liked by everyone. We try to please those who are around us. But if you are a landlord, you have to put the business first as being to kind or friendly may not be to your benefit. Your three most important goal should be: Finding good tenants …+ read more
Four Reasons to Sell an Investment Home Now!
Tweet Are you thinking about selling? Best to consider these factors and avoid the following traps. 1. Profit has been maximised: When a property has reached maximum value, there is little value in holding onto it for longer. Do not wait until the market is turning downward. Then all you are doing is …+ read more
Denver Building Permits Can Protect You!
Tweet Residential Improvement Reminder from City of Denver When work is done without permits, it comes to light at the time a property is sold, refinanced or when a contractor or neighbor notices a problem and reports it to the City. This applies to many of the metro area suburbs too! FHA appraisers may …+ read more
Renting vs Buying in Westminster Colorado
Tweet Renters have been happy to sidestep the drama homeowners have suffered in the roller-coaster housing market. But they are now facing the downside of the real estate market's correction. With apartment and rental housing construction halved in recent years and a wave of former homeowners competing for apartment space with "echo boomers" and other renters, …+ read more
How to Find a Tenant for Your Rentals
Tweet Do to the increasing popularity of the internet and social media, there are new and cost effective ways to advertize your rental. You can always go to sites like forrentbyowner.com, craigslist.com or postlets.com. Another alternative is to put it up on Facebook and see if any of your friends know someone who will …+ read more
Six Areas of Your Home that need Attention NOW!
Tweet It is that time of year again. Maybe the snow and chilly weather caught you by surprise, so see what you can do to help prevent any unexpected repair bills. Here are some ideas from my inspector at Amerispec. See if any of these are ones you might have overlooked. A little time …+ read more
6 Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them
Tweet 1. Wrong Price. If you want to sell your home faster, price it right in the beginning. Overpriced homes appeal to fewer people and can even scare them away. Most neighborhoods have more homes to sell than buyers so they choose the best priced homes first. 2. Over Improving. It is …+ read more