text: The RMU electronics is really starting to take form. There is not much left to solder now. What you can see on the picture is a FPGA at the top-left corner. It will handle all the communication between the ground station an the FFUs while the FFUs are mounted inside the rocket. You can also see seven coils distributed over the board. Two of them are for filtering the 28 V power that is supplied to the MUSCAT experiment. The rest of the coils belongs to step down converters. Four of those are 4.2 V and will be used to charge each FFU while mounted inside the rocket. The fifth is a 5 V regulator that together with a few linear regulators will power the FPGA, sensors and the camera control circuits.


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Change a cat's life today Become a Cats Protection Sponsor.
The Derby and District Branch charity shop has reopened after its makeover and is now looking absolutely splendid as you can see by the photos. Do call in if you are in the area and pick yourself up a bargain.
The shop is situated at 31 Wardwick, Derby (opposite the Central Library) and the opening hours are 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday. We are now advertising for more volunteers due to the longer opening hours. If you, or anyone you know, would be interested in joining us, please get in touch either on by ringing the Cat-line on 01332 206956 or emailing us at firstname.lastname@example.com shop has a lovely fresh feel with large format photos of some stunning cats so it really does make you feel that you are supporting a cat charity when you are in store.

subset: commoncrawl


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We're either doing it, or not doing it. Talking about it, or not talking about it. Thinking about it, or not thinking about it. It's a topic of discussion amongst the young and old and yet, more often than not, a lot of us struggle with actually having enough energy throughout the day to enjoy intimacy & sex with our partners or, dare I say, with ourselves. There are many factors that need to be considered when thinking about our drive for sex, but for now let's look at how adding superfoods into your diet can up your libido and zest for life.
Maca Root
Known as 'Nature's Viagra', Maca is renowned for increasing sex drive and fertility. Maca is a simple, natural and nutritionally rich superfood found in Peru. Traditionally it's used as a folk remedy to increase stamina, energy, sexual function and libido. The benefits of Maca are endless, but some of the main ones to keep in mind are: enhancement of libido (sex drive), stimulates fertility, increases testosterone levels (keep in mind women with higher levels of testosterone often have a higher sex drive), helps fight against erectile dysfunctions and impotency, increases vaginal lubrication…let's face it, it's a WIN WIN with Maca. Mix it into yoghurt, smoothies, baking, raw chocolate & salad dressings, or take Maca capsules.
Goji Berries
Goji Berries are known as a strong sexual tonic. Goji berries increase testosterone levels, improve overall stamina, mood and wellbeing, all of which are vital for an optimum sex life. Chuck them in salads, on your cereal, smoothies or sprinkled on yoghurt.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen has every vitamin, mineral, amino acid, antioxidant and other trace element known to man. In Chinese Medicine, pollen is considered an energy and nutritive tonic with cultures from all over the world using it for a number of different reasons. Some of the main ways it can benefit you sexually are:
Improves endurance and vitality
Potent aphrodisiac,
Improves fertility
Boosts libido
Enhances sexual pleasure.
Sprinkle over your cereal, yoghurt, smoothies, ice-cream, or simply consume a teaspoon a day!
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain Zinc, which is important in testosterone production in men and helps sustain sexual desire in women. They are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are the precursors of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that play a key role in sexual desire and sexual health. Word on the street is that chucking a few pumpkin seeds into your diet will enhance potency, sex drive and fertility.
Originally published on Vavven


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Block Paving in Cramlington
Block paving in Cramlington is one of the most popular materials for drives and paths. It is affordable, long-lasting and can be laid in countless patterns, colours, styles and finishes. It is also easily maintained, and in cases of stains and damage, individual blocks changed out.
We use high quality paving blocks as standard from the best manufactures such as Marshalls, Stonemarket, Brett, Hanson, Bradstone and Natural Stone Paving. These products are created to the highest industry standards and will look spectacular for years.
Northern Surfaces install blocks, or paving sets, and have the inventiveness to ensure that you have a driveway, patio or path that is the envy of your whole neighbourhood.
Advantages of Block Paving in Cramlington
Block Paving in Cramington is becoming more popular each day. They are a superb alternative to concrete or asphalt driveways, but why exactly are people opting for block paving? Do you know the benefits?
- Block paving is a versatile paving option, it is adaptable to a range of different areas and sites.
- You can choose from a multitude of patterned designs and colours to suit the exterior of your property. A stylish design will certainly be a fine investment since it will add value to your home.
- Block paving is low maintenance and any broken blocks or damage to the paving is easily repaired.
- Block paving is so durable and hard wearing that it's now widely used in airports, docks and heavy manufacturing sites.
A Variety of Block Paving Designs
Block paving in Cramlington is an attractive and tasteful choice of paving, with many different colours and designs available to complement your exterior. One of the most common paving designs is the Herringbone pattern, which utilises an interlocking design that sets blocks at 45 or 90 degree angles to the perpendicular. A variety of other patterns are readily available, including Basketweave, Stretcherbond and Marshals Tegula random paving. Some patterns are better suited to paths, while others are great for driveways.


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Product Filter
Diwali Sparklers
Celebrate the 5 Day Festival of Lights with Diwali Sparklers! ViP Sparklers offers the most popular Diwali Sparklers on sale. Celebrate new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness! We offer free shipping on all Diwali Sparklers in honor of the Hindu New Year. Happy Diwali from ViP Sparklers!
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- dessert ideas
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- sparklers
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- VIP Bottle Service Sparklers
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- wedding cake candles
- wedding cake sparklers


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One of my favorite things to do in New York in the Spring is the Cherry blossom festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. It's literally such a fun experience to picnic underneath the massive cherry blossom trees. Ever since that day, I have always loved using cherry blossoms as a wild accessory to spruce up my clients homes.
Today, I want to encourage you, with a little bit of inspiration, to go grab some bundles of cherry blossoms for your home. Using them to give height to any vignette will add instant style.
This set of two vases with cherry blossoms brings such impact to the fireplace of one of my favorite clients NYC apartment. This creates a dramatic focal point to a small space.
I fell so in love with this photo of the gorgeous cherry blossoms against a dark black wall. Swoon.
Fill an empty corner with some cherry blossoms for an interesting moment and a dash of color.
A bundle like this can give an entryway some major style points.
How beautiful is this front door? I would love to add a tree to my home.
images: katie scott | christine dovey | Ryan Korban | design decor | House Beautiful


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Duration: 6 days/ 5 nights
Tour Destination: Saigon - Mytho - Cai Rang - Cantho - Cu Chi tunnels - Cao Dai Temples - Saigon
( The best Vietnam tours at Lvptravel.com for tourists )
Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package Fully Itinerary:
Day 1 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Saigon Arrival (Dinner)
After landing at Tan San Nhat Airport. Our driver and local English speaking tour guide will pick you up and transfer to your hotel. Free time in hotel, relax. Overnight at your proposed hotel in Ho chi minh city. We advice you should take a walk to Bui Vien street, De Tham Street in the Center N01 District in HCM
( The best Ho Chi Minh city tours at Lvptravel.com )
Day 2 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Saigon City Tour (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Breakfast at the hotel. Start your sightseeing tour at the Reunification Palace, which was the residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of the war in April 1975. Then visit some impressive French colonial structures including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Central Post Office. Explore Chinatown and Thien Hau and Quan Am pagodas. After seeing the Emperor Jade Pagoda and the War Remnants Museum, end your tour at Ben Thanh market where anything and everything is for sale. Dinner on guest's account. Overnight at your chosen hotel in HCMC. ( The best Ho Chi Minh city hotels at Lvptravel )
Day 3 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Saigon - My tho - Can Tho (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
8:00 AM Pick up at your hotel in HCMC. Depart for My tho. Take a leisurely boat ride through the Bao Dinh natural canal which is bordered by rows of traditional stilt houses and fruit plantations. Visit the My Tho wholesale fruit market. Proceed to Tortoise island. Lunch served in the heart of the orchard. Enjoy a boat ride through the Tan Thach natural canal in Ben Tre, cruising under the shadows of the water coconut trees. Visit a family business which epitomizes the idyllic rural lifestyle. After trekking through the fruit plantation on Thoi Son island, enjoy a rowing boat ride along the creeks before returning to My Tho by motor boats. Continue moving to Can Tho. Have a dinner at local restaurant. Overnight at your booked hotel in Can Tho.
( The best Cantho tours at Lvptravel.com for you )
Day 4 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Can tho - Saigon (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
After breakfast, take the morning boat trip to visit the Cai Rang floating market which is at its busiest at this time of day. Keep cruising through the small channels system and visit a rice noodle making village. Break for lunch on the way back to Ho Chi Minh City.
( The best Indochina tours you can refer )
Day 5 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Saigon - Cuchi - Cao Dai Temples(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Breakfast at the hotel. Drive in west direction to Tay Ninh, headquarters of Cao Dai region. On arrival, attend to the fantastic mid-day temple service when followers fill the hall wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. On the way back, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network of tunnels constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the struggle for independence. The tunnels contained hospitals, accommodation, etc. and were used as a military base for the Vietcong during the American war. Return to HCMC. Having dinner at local restaurant. Overnight at your chosen hotel in HCMC.
( The best Mekong delta tours at Lvptravel )
Day 6 - Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta Tour Package: Saigon
Having breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for departure. We can arrange additional customized trips for you if the above itinerary does not match your expectations.
Book this tour or customize your itinerary


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The study of IR confronts the fundamental aspects of the human condition in all its manifest urgency. From the 'high politics' of a G8 summit to the implementation of an irrigation scheme in a developing economy, politics, power, and conflict demand our serious attention.
At Webster Thailand, the primary objective of the IR program is to equip students interested in the vital field of International Relations and world politics with vital skills, which are transferable beyond the learning environment provided by the university.
Professional Opportunities
A degree in International Relations gives the student an edge in a world labor market that demands flexibility, adaptability, and critical thinking skills. Webster's International Relations program offers a diverse curriculum that combines tradition and innovation. The department is loyal to the concept of a traditional liberal arts education, and at the same time believes that a student's academic program should be a preparation for a productive professional career. A degree in international relations is ideal for careers in commerce, journalism, business, education, public affairs, diplomacy, or law school and other graduate studies.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Be able to demonstrate knowledge of key subfields and theories of International Relations as a discipline.
- Be able to identify major actors and institutions of international relations and to know their functions.
- Be able to analyze international issues from perspectives other than their own.
- Be able to display familiarity with foreign cultures and languages.
Program taught in:
- English
See 9 more programs offered by Webster University Thailand Campus »


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Choose your location
Sat / Aug 24
20s / 30s / 40s / Ambient / Bar / Brunch
Party Earth Review Right in the heart of trendy Saint Germain is Café Mabillon, a swanky spot whose claim to fame is that it's open twenty-three hours a day. And that's no small claim – in a city where it's hard to have late lunches and midnight dinners, Mabillon smartly accommodates the diverse work and party patterns of its wide range of ... more
164 Boulevard Saint-Germain
75006 Paris
20s / 90s Music / Ambient / Blouses
Party Earth Review A lively sports-themed joint in the popular nighttime area of Saint-Michel, The Great Canadian Pub is where homesick Canucks go for native comfort food, frosty Moosehead, and TVs tuned to lots of hockey. By day, the outdoor seating area provides a picturesque place for passing tourists to enjoy a burger and a pint near ... more
25 Quai Grands Augustins
75006 Paris
20s / Bar / Birthday Parties / Fun
Party Earth Review Combining board games, drawing, and trivia with a selection of tasty cocktails – all named after cartoon characters – Le Zéro de Conduite ("Zero for Conduct") is a quirky bar that doesn't take anything very seriously. Not even drinking, seeing as patrons have to "sip" ... more
14 Rue Jacob
75006 Paris


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Address:805 Jim Thorpe BlvdPrague, OK 74864Map & Directions
Website: http://www.cocaa.org
Services: The Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency provides many services and programs to eligible individuals who are homeless, low-income, elderly or disabled.
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 8 AM - 5 PM
Address:206 E 2nd StWewoka, OK 74884Map & Directions
Website: http://www.okdhs.org
Services: Two programs are available to assist with heating and cooling expense LIHEAP - Low Income Heating Assistance Program, will provide assistance for a heating bill and is available annually from Dec 1 until funds are exhausted ECAP - Electric Cooling Assistance Program, will provide assistance for a electric bill and is available annually from March 15 until funds are exhausted Both programs have income guidelines for eligibility, but ECAP also requires a cut-off notice from the electric company.
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 7 AM - 5 PM
Address:315 E Broadway AveSeminole, OK 74868Map & Directions
Address:2020 E 1st StChandler, OK 74834Map & Directions
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 7:30 AM - 5 PM
Address:200 E 9th StShawnee, OK 74801Map & Directions
Website: http://www.uss.salvationarmy.org
Services: The Salvation Army offers assistance in a variety of fields; such as older adult ministries, corrections, day care, education, emergency assistance, food, housing, substance abuse, youth, among others. However, the availability of these services varies from one location to another To find the nearest location and services available, please use the web site www.uss.salvationarmy.org
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 9 AM - 4 PM
Address:1400 N Kennedy AveShawnee, OK 74801Map & Directions
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Address:801 Kingsberry RdHoldenville, OK 74848Map & Directions
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 7 AM - 5 PM
Address:5005 N Wood DrOkmulgee, OK 74447Map & Directions
Address:12 W Burnham AveSapulpa, OK 74066Map & Directions
Website: http://www.sapulpacommunitycare.org
Services: Sapulpa Community Care is a helping organization founded in 1991 by area churches and civic groups. Provides basic needs services for families with infants and children ages 0-5 including: prescriptions and medical supplies, food and clothing assistance, utility and rental assistance and housing.
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Address:10 N Mounds StSapulpa, OK 74066Map & Directions
Website: http://www.okdhs.org/okdhslocal/creek/
Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 8 AM - 5 PM


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Housing is one of the most significant issues of local concern in West Sussex. It also presents a real challenge.
On the one hand, there is a very strong view, which I share, about the need to protect the countryside, preserve the character of our villages and prevent suburban sprawl.
Recent proposals for major developments - an eco-town at Ford and large-scale building at Adversane and to the west of Burgess Hill - were met with vocal local protests.
On the other hand, I remain concerned about the difficulty that young people have in getting their foot onto the property ladder and the change in the character of our villages when young people are forced to leave.
Many of us are agreed about the need for affordable housing for local people. The difficult question is how to accommodate it sustainably.
The previous Government's central housing targets weren't the answer. West Sussex was told to accommodate 74,000 new houses, equivalent to increasing the population of the county by a quarter, a number which was unrealistic and unsustainable.
This Government has proposed an entirely new approach. We will scrap national housing targets and give local communities a greater say by drawing up their own neighbourhood plan.
Regrettably, through judicial review, a developer successfully opposed the immediate abolition of the housing targets. The Localism Bill will override this by removing the targets, but until this becomes law, it appears that some developers are using the opportunity to sneak in speculative applications.
I'm particularly concerned by the proposals, for instance, to build 114 new houses in Pulborough and 51 new homes in Hurstpierpoint.
Quite apart from the impact on the environment, inappropriate development raises real questions about the adequacy of infrastructure such as water and transport links. The village school in Hurstpierpoint, for instance, is already over-subscribed.
We cannot say no to any new housing. What we can do is ensure that it is at an appropriate scale, affordable, sustainable and so far as possible built on the basis of local determination.
The Saxon Weald affordable housing development in Amberley, which I visited last year, is a good example of a successful scheme promoted with local consent.
I am unable to interfere in planning decisions for the very reason that these are local decisions, not ones for Parliament. They should be taken responsibly by local communities, not imposed from on high.


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What to expect
Cycle beside the blue waters of the Danube River as it passes through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Sleeping on a traditional riverboat, you'll cruise to new stretches of river overnight, waking up to some of the Danube's most striking scenery and spectacular cities, including the musical landmarks of Vienna, the cobbled streets of Bratislava, and the romantic buildings of Budapest. Look forward to untouched forests, dramatic river bends and pristine islands, stopping off in idyllic villages and cosy taverns along the way.
As you tour through Austria's UNESCO listed Wachau region, you'll pass castles and palaces embedded in a landscape of rolling vineyards and rugged peaks – overlooking the river, Melk Abbey is one of the most breathtaking monuments here and the grand dome of the basilica in Esztergom is a highlight before you cruise back to Germany.
Alternatively, travel on the MS Carissima which has a slightly different itinerary.
At a glance
- Spectacular city tours in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest
- Green riverbanks, rolling vineyards and idyllic villages
- Breathtaking castles and stunning palaces in the Wachau region
- Relaxed cycling along easy terrain that's ideal for occasional cyclists
The Trip
Day 1:
Arrive in Passau – Engelhartszell
Make your way to the river-town of Passau, which sits at the crossroads of three rivers. Check in to your cabin from 4.00pm, Normandie customers take an evening cruise around 7pm to Engelhartszell in Upper Austria (for 2019 departures Arlene II customers remain in Passau for the night). Enjoy a drink at your welcome meeting.
Day 2:
Engelhartszell (or Obernzell) - Brandstatt – Bratislava (or Devin) & Great Loop
29 miles (46 km) or 25 miles (40 km)
Normandie customers tour through the romantic fluvial landscapes of the Danube's Great Loop – one of the river's most beautiful sections and home to idyllic villages and cosy taverns. Normandie customers rejoin the boat at the charming village of Brandstatt and cruise through the night to Bratislava.
For 2019 departures, customers on the Arlene II boat will leave Passau in the early morning to cruise to Obernzell have the following itinerary today: Passau – Obernzell (by boat) - Great Loop – Aschach – Devin (40km)
Day 3:
34 miles (54 km)
Arrive in Bratislava around noon and cycle via Hainburg to the imposing Imperial Palace of Hof, with its beautifully terraced gardens, and on to Devin, before returning to Bratislava. Discover Bratislava's small alleyways during an evening tour on foot. Sail to Budapest during the night.
Customers on the Arlene II will arrive in Devin in the morning and cycle from Devin to Bratislava (54 km).
Day 4:
Free day in Budapest or cycle to Szentendre
0/25 miles (0/40 km)
Awake to a fantastic view of the Danube and spend a day exploring Budapest, pedalling past riverside palaces. Join a choice of optional tours or explore by yourself, visiting the market hall, restored old town and stunning churches. Alternatively, ride to the galleries and pretty houses of Szentendre, a modest cycle out of the city. Sail to Visegrad during the night.
Day 5:
Danube Bend & Visegrad – Esztergom
16/37 miles (25/60 km)
Cruise through the picturesque, slightly hilly landscape of the Danube Bend, also known as the Hungarian Wachau. Arrive at the castle town of Visegrad and choose either a shorter or longer cycle, with an optional detour to Szentendre Island and the Baroque village of Vác. Experience the basilica at Esztergom before sailing to Vienna overnight.
Day 6:
Vienna - Nussdorf / Korneuburg
Take a bike or bus tour of Vienna and experience the famous architecture of the Hofburg Palace, St Stephen's Cathedral, Ringstrasse boulevard and colourful Hundertwasser house. Enjoy an optional evening concert or operetta in the Hofburg, State Opera House. Sail on to Rossatz or Durnstein in the Wachau during the night (Krems for Arlene II 2019 departures)
Day 7:
Wachau - Rossatz - Melk – Pöchlarn or Emmersdorf
26/32 miles (42/52 km) or 22 miles (35 km)
Tour through a region of soft hills, idyllic villages, apricot trees and wine terraces, passing fortresses and monasteries. Visit the blue church tower of Dürnstein and try wine tasting in Spitz (optional). Continue on to the small village of Pöchlarn and re-join your boat (Arlene II customers join at Emmersdorf - 22 miles /35 km). In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner on board, before sailing back to Passau.
Day 8:
Depart from Passau
Arrive in Passau around late morning or noon after a last look at the "Great Loop" arrive at approximately 10am, ready to disembark at approximately 10.30 am (11.00 for Arlene II 2020 departures) . We recommend arranging connecting trips from noon onwards (12.30 for Arlene II 2020 departures). .
Please Note: The captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to changes in water levels and local conditions.
MS Normandie
The MS Normandie is a comfortable, spacious boat with a panoramic salon and bar on the upper deck and restaurant on the main deck. On deck there are deck chairs and ordinary chairs and tables, perfect for relaxing and watching the scenery float past and chatting to fellow cyclists. There are 49 twin-bedded cabins, all with single beds (one of which can be folded against the wall to maximise space during the day) and two single cabins. All have shower, wc, hairdryer, TV, safe, air-conditioning and a picture window. Cabin windows on the upper deck can be opened. *Guests in rear upper deck cabins will hear engine and generator noise when the boat is moving.
MS Arlene II
The Ms Arlene II is being refurbished for 2019 departures. The restaurant is on the main deck and the saloon/bar with panoramic windows is on the upper deck. The large partly shaded sun deck is a great place to relax on a deck chair and enjoy the scenery. The upper deck has 8 suites (15m2) with a twin bed, a small sitting area and panoramic floor to ceiling windows. . There are 16 upper deck twin cabins (10m2), six rear twin upper deck cabins (you will hear engine and generator noise when the boat is moving) and two upper deck single cabins (8m2) – both the twin and single cabins have windows that open . On the main deck there are 24 twin cabins with a ventilation window that partially opens. All the cabins are en-suite with a shower, hair dryer, TV, safe and air-conditioning.
Dates & Prices
Please click on a departure date for price options at a glance - 2020 departures
Price includes
- 7 nights accommodation: MS Normandie or MS Arlene II with en-suite and air-conditioning
- Board basis: Full board including breakfast, packed lunch (for cyclists) or light lunch on board (non-cyclists) and three course dinner
- Services of an English speaking on-board guide with daily briefings of the bike tours
- Maps and route information plus daily briefings (GPS tracks available on request)
- Welcome meeting with drink
- Local contact number for assistance
- Daily cabin cleaning
- Mooring fees
- Coffee in the afternoon
- Daily live music
Price excludes
- Flights and transfers
- Cycle helmets
- Bike hire
- Transfers to/from the docking in Passau
- Entrance fees and excursions
Child Reductions
- Child up to 12 years sharing with one full paying passenger - 20%
Bike Hire
Bike hire
Pannier per bike and a handlebar bag and lock per cabin all included at no extra cost when you hire a bike.
With pannier
News, Reviews & FAQs
Simply click on a question to reveal the answers
Will the itinerary ever change?
For Boat & Bike tours the boat will generally keep to the advertised itinerary, however the captain may have to adapt the itinerary due to the river or sea conditions.
How much space will I have in my cabin?
There is limited space in the cabins, so pack light and take a soft suitcase.
What are the average temperatures for this tour?
Can I stay on the boat during the day and not cycle?
Yes, you can relax on the boat or explore when you arrive at each destination instead of cycling.
Can the boat cater for special dietary requirements?
Please advise us of any special requirements at time of booking and we will notify the boat operator in advance. Understandably, kitchen galley space is limited and it may not be possible to provide specialist products (eg. Gluten free). We suggest you bring a few items with you and, in some cases, these can be provided at a supplement.
Will I be cycling with other people?
Although there is no organised group, self-guided guests regularly find they come across their fellow passengers along the route during the day and may even get together to form their own cycling groups.
What does my on-board Tour Leader do?
Your on-board Tour Leader provides daily briefings ahead of the next day's ride. These are always beneficial, including information on the local area, main sights, and tips on good places to stop en route.
Can I book by myself?
Absolutely! Boat & Bike tours are very sociable and a good choice for single travellers wishing to mix with other guests and share your common interest of cycling.
Customer reviews
What other customers have said
Been on this tour? Add your review!
Great fun holiday.Joel Lanyon, UK, July 2019
This is a well-organised trip, with a good combination of healthy exercise in the fresh air and sightseeing in places we were unfamiliar with - here the guided tours were a useful way of getting a quick idea of a place, better than wandering around on your own. The bicycles were good but I couldn't handle the braking system. The cabins were well planned and comfortable. The food was excellent - I am sure that the problem with the goulash was a one-off.Jessica Tyrrell , UK, October 2018


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(Distributed 07/11/08) When parents read aloud to their children, everyone wins, according to LSU AgCenter family development professor Dr. Rebecca White.
(Distributed 07/11/08) High heat and humidity during preseason football practice pose a significant danger for heat illnesses and heat stroke. Athletes need adequate fluids for their best performance, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/11/08) The emotional days of watching your young child board the big yellow school bus for the first day of school may be long gone, but now you're watching your young adult embark on an even bigger adventure – going to college.
(Distributed 07/11/08) The first and most important teachers children have are their parents. It is especially important for parents to read to their baby from birth, according to LSU AgCenter family development professor Dr. Rebecca White.
(Distributed 07/11/08) With the start of school comes the reality of homework. To start the year off right, help students make the most of their study time with a productive study spaces, advises LSU AgCenter 4-H youth development expert Dr. Janet Fox.
(Distributed 07/11/08) If your son or daughter will be a junior or senior in high school this fall, you'll likely start talking about college. You also may be thinking how expensive college is, since cost is a concern for most families, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Gloria Nye.
(Distributed 07/11/08) While older children are preparing to start school in the fall, younger children are eager to learn new things, too. Shopping for back-to-school items is a good time to start teaching your preschooler about spending and saving money, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Gloria Nye.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Although most parents tell their children that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, many kids don't listen. Surveys show that as many as 48 percent of girls and 32 percent of boys do not eat breakfast every day.
(Distributed 07/30/08) Trans fats are in the news. And like saturated fat and dietary cholesterol, they raise low-density lipoprotein – LDL or "bad" – cholesterol levels in our bodies, which increase the risk of coronary heart disease, says Beth Reames, LSU AgCenter nutritionist. "Coronary heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States today," Reames said.
(Distributed 07/11/08) More than 224,000 young people in Louisiana and 7 million across the country have found a home in 4-H. The new school year offers the opportunity to join the most popular youth group in the nation, according to the LSU AgCenter's Dr. Mark Tassin, director of the Louisiana 4-H Youth Development Program.
(Distributed 07/11/08) A bad attitude about school can hinder a child's future. Parents and caregivers can either help or undermine the importance of doing well, according to LSU AgCenter family life professor Dr. Karen Overstreet.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Many of you already may have talked to your soon-to-be college freshmen about the importance of avoiding drugs, but have you talked to them about the importance of avoiding debt?
(Distributed 07/11/08) Whether you're going back to school as a student or a teacher, be extra careful in packing your take-along lunch if it sits a long time between the time you make it and eat it.
(Distributed 07/11/08) The start of school is not the end of the hurricane season. Another three months remain for the season to end on November 30.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Before the age of school uniforms, my daughter's middle school girlfriends were wearing a designer brand of jeans. Not wanting to be different, my daughter wanted five pairs of those jeans so she could wear a different pair to school each day.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Most children have not learned enough to be financially independent and successful by the time they enter college. Yet, many teenagers are offered credit cards before they even graduate from high school.
(Distributed 07/25/08) Hot summer weather signals the importance of getting enough fluids to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related illnesses – especially for senior citizens. Older people are at high risk for developing heat-related illness at this time, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Is your child ready for preschool? In Louisiana a child must turn 4 years old by September 30 to be eligible for preschool services. Preschool in Louisiana is not mandatory; it's an option.
(Distributed 07/11/08) Snacks should be an important part of a child's daily food intake. Because children are growing and active, they may need to eat more than three times a day, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.


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WWE Monday night Raw 19th November 2018 results and highlights..!!
Segment (1) :- Baron Corbin addresses Survivor Series..!!
So guyz.. This week's Monday night raw was the first raw episode after 2018 Survivor Series ppv. This week's Monday night raw episode was kicked-off by Baron Corbin where he addressed the victory of Raw brand over smackdown. After his promo Stephanie McMahon came and she made some promises after that Brawn Strowman also came, he demanded a match from Stephanie McMahon against Baron Corbin. Stephanie McMahon conformed Brawn Strowman's demand, she booked a match between both the superstars at TLC ppv. But she also put some stipulations in this match which was that if Brawn Strowman wins then we will get the opportunity to fight against Brock Lesnar for the universal championship at 2019 Royal Rumble ppv. And the another stipulation in this match was that if Baron Corbin looses then he will be no more active general manager of Monday night raw. After that Stephanie McMahon also conformed a match between Brawn Strowman, Finn Balor and Elias vs Bobby Lashley, Drew Mclntyre and Baron Corbin. This match started right after this segment.
Match (1) :- Brawn Strowman, Finn Balor and Elias vs Bobby Lashley, Drew Mclntyre and Baron Corbin..!!
This match was the 6 man tag team (elimination) match. Here at the end of this match Brawn Strowman was about to pin Baron Corbin but suddenly Drew Mclntyre came and hit a chair shot on Brawn Strowman and this match was won by the team of Brawn Strowman via disqualification. But after the match Baron Corbin's team brutally attacked on Brawn Strowman and made Brawn Strowman injured.
Segment (2) :- Seth Rollins calls out Dean Ambrose..!!
Here in this segment Seth Rollins addressed the success of the Shield and he also addressed the heel turn Dean Ambrose. After that he calls out Dean Ambrose, but Dean doesn't appear so far. After that Seth Rollins went backstage and started finding Dean Ambrose. We had also seen many times in between the shoe Seth Rollins finding Dean Ambrose aggressively.
Match (2) :- Sasha Banks and Bayley vs Tamina and Nia Jacks..!!
Here in this match Tamina and Nia Jacks defeated Sasha Banks and Bayley via pinfall.
Match (3) :- The Lucha house party vs The Revivals..!!
Here in this match The Lucha house party had defeated the Revivals via pinfall.
Segment (3) :- Ronda Rowsey addressed Survivor Series 2018 ppv..!!
Here in this segment Ronda Rousey revealed that if she will not defend her women's championship tonight then she doesn't deserve this title. After that Baron Corbin came and he conveyed Ronda Rousey. But however he booked a match between Ronda Rousey and Micky James for the women's championship. And in this match Ronda Rousey doesn't face difficulties and she easily retained her women's championship against Micky James.
Match (4) :- Bobby Roode and Chad Gable vs The Authors of Pain (AOP)..!!
Here in this match Bobby Roode and Chad Gable had made a huge victory on their names by defeating authors of pain (AOP) via roll-up pin.
Match (5) :- Natalya vs Rooby Riott..!!
Here in this match we had also seen the involvement of Riott Squad but still here Natalya defeated Rooby Riott.
Segment (4) {main event} :- Dean Ambrose addressed Seth Rollins..!!
Here in this segment Dean Ambrose came in the middle of the ring, he again spoke a lot about Seth Rollins. After that Seth Rollins also came and brutally attacked on Dean Ambrose. And at the end, Dean Ambrose hit a low blow on Seth Rollins.
This was all about this week's Monday night raw episode. I hope you guyz liked this week's Monday night raw episode.
That's it. Thanks for reading..!


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text: What an amazing year! As we look back at 2015, our timeline is filled with memories of our wonderful brides and their weddings! What an exciting 12 months and we couldn't help but share some of our favorites moments that Arden Photography has captured. I'm not sure how we will top this in 2016 but we're looking forward to another spectacular journey with our awesome brides, families, vendors and supporters. We would like to thank everyone that had a special role in helping us make this year a huge success. Cheers to 2015 and before you know it, in the blink of an eye; we'll be looking back at 2016! Happy New Year to everyone!


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Introduction -
For the most part, I forget what it's like to be mainstream about life, death, afterlife, spirit, past lives, channelling…
I forget that most people are so afraid of death, or of what might happen after death, that they hold their breath and try to pretend that death won't happen. They don't want to think about it, much less understand it, and would never consider making friends with it.
Our culture has certainly done a number on the fear of death and the afterlife. It equates death with the final failure, using phrases like "lost the battle", "taken from us", and "final resting place".
It's as though living is winning and dying is losing, as though when we're alive we're working hard, and when we die we simply rest, no longer participating with people and everything else on the Earth.
Where did that nonsense come from?
Church and state, power and control of the masses, and repeated myth.
I humbly thank you for choosing to read this book. I realize I'm asking you to profoundly stretch, to expand and reshape your belief system, to bring a grander viewpoint into it all. I'm pushing evolved consciousness here. Spiritual, energetic intelligence. Non-fear, at the very least.
I also realize I've personally had a lot more exposure to death than the average person, having lost my mother-figure (the grandmother who emotionally raised me) when I was eighteen, my brother, my three sisters, my father, my mother, and now my only child.
With each of those losses, the need to understand why increased exponentially. How could it not? If I hadn't had the need to ask and know why, I would probably be reaching for whatever form of mind-and-emotion-numbing medication I could get my hands on. But as I've often said, "meditate or medicate".
So in a deep, meditative state, I ask my most expansive version of self why my family members chose to live and die in that particular way and at that particular time.
The answers soothe my nervous system, stretch my spiritual awareness, lock in place some valuable insights, and change the way I see life and death. They change the way I live. And all for the better.
As a transpersonal psychotherapist who conducted tens of thousands of past life regressions over decades, I asked the very same questions whenever I did inner journeying work with a client. Whether in a past life regression or a channelling session, the questions and answers became the source of deeper understanding, acceptance, forgiveness, and peace. It's where the great revelations came from, and where the tears of truth flowed.
We are complex beings, no doubt about it, and asking why is our favourite question. Our inquisitive self asks, "Why do we do this? Why don't we do that? Why can't we stop this? Why can't we start that? Why did that happen?" The list is endless.
Most people get stuck when they think they have to get quiet and go inside themselves to access the answers to their "why's".
When they are in their greatest fear or pain, asking why by themselves can often be more painful or fearful. I understand that. I am forever in gratitude to Cheryl and Sage (I will introduce them later in the book) for their access and availability during my times at the bottom of the emotional ocean.
As an expert in consciousness studies, an inveterate explorer of the inner realms, I know that asking our thinking brain "why" is not the best approach to take if we really want the most satisfying and complete understanding.
The answers to the biggest, most emotional "why's" aren't on the surface of our thinking brain. To access those answers, we need a gentler approach. We need to neutralize the emotions in order to get underneath and find out what's really triggering them. The emotions are just the tip of the iceberg.
The gentle approach is called deep meditation and expanded soul connection. It's the process of inter-dimensionally expanding to our multidimensional self.
Asking "why" in that state yields the experiences and expansive answers we really need to satisfy those very human "why's".
Being a compassionate guide for others in my work means I help them access the most expansive states of consciousness where the answers are understood, whether the "why's" are about death, birth, marriage, divorce, addiction, abandonment, purpose, or anything else.
Together, my clients and I create the next level of freedom and joy so they can form more intimate, soul-enriched relationships with themselves and others.
To that end, I believed in the greater reality more than anyone I knew. I worked in it, lived my life based on it, took it to my core. It was my operating system for life. But only when my son Connor transitioned, did I get to the next level of living in this greater reality.
The veil is really very, very thin. Anyone who has physically incarnated on the planet is energetically connected to the people they love, and to the Earth, indefinitely. Yet it is through the contrast of love and loss that humans can become aligned with their souls, and therefore enlightened.
I was not only privileged to have the purest soul-to-soul relationship in this lifetime, but I was also able to spend twenty-two years with my spiritual guide, Connor, while he was in physical form.
Our immortal spiritual self is more real than anything we perceive in this physical realm. Death doesn't stop love. It doesn't take away relationship. Connor is free and blissful. He radiates serenity, compassion, and wisdom. He is in the love, and death is no match for love.
I feel enriched by loving Connor, instead of feeling deprived by the loss of his form.
Because Connor was so connected to those qualities when he was in physical form and I became so used to communing with him, the communication signal, since his transition, is not a lot different. He's much more than the personality he once was, so in many ways he is still Connor. He's simply been upgraded - expanded - to Connor 2.0.
Now, in our choice of separate realms on either side of the veil we are still together, and soul-to-soul love is still the meaning and purpose.


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Event Details 9/21/2019
7:00am – 10 Mile Trail Run starts
7:10am – 5 Mile Trail Run starts
7:20am – 3 Mile Trail Run starts
8:00am – Cut off to begin 2nd Lap on 10 Mile Trail Run
9:00am – Junior Category Mountain Bike starts
9:10am – Novice Category Mountain Bike starts
9:30am – Trail Run Awards
10:00am – Sport Category Mountain Bike starts
10:05am – Expert Category Mountain Bike starts
11:35am – Mountain Bike Awards
Event Map
MTB Course Maps
coming soon
RUN Course Map
coming soon
Want to participate in more than one event? During registration: select a category, fill out your information, then click "I want to register another person", select your second category, fill out your information again, and then use the offer code DOUBLETROUBLE for 10% off!
Trail Run
GET THOSE RUNNING SHOES DIRTY AND RACE ON THE BEST OFF ROAD TRAILS IN MIAMI!!! We will have a 5 Mile and a 10 Mile (2 laps) to choose from. The course will feature dirt, sand, wood bridges and limestone to run over. The 10 Mile race will begin 7:00am shortly followed by the 5 Mile race at 7:10am, finishing with the 3 Mile race at 7:20am.
Participant Supplies
- Custom Race BIB Number
- Timing Chip
- Custom Event Shirt
- Unique Wooden Finisher's Medal
- Dirty Shoes
Checklist of items to bring
- Running shoes
- Hat or visor
- Lightweight running clothes
- Sunscreen
*Aid stations with cups of water will be placed approximately every 2 miles
We look forward to seeing you on the trails!
10 Miles | 5 Miles | 3 Miles
Awards: Top 3 Male/Female, Top 3 Age Groups
Age Groups
- 14 and under
- 15-19
- 20-29
- 30-39
- 40-49
- 50-59
- 60 +
No refunds, transfers to another race, nor transferring of bibs to other runners.
*10 Mile Cutoff Time for starting the second lap is 8:00am
Mobile-Friendly Registration
Mountain Bike
TAKE YOUR HARDTAIL OR FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE FOR A RIDE TO THE TALLEST POINT IN MIAMI!!! We will have several categories and distances for riders of all levels and ages. The course will feature climbing, switch backs, fast downhills, beautiful ocean views, and the highest point in Miami. Mountain Bike races will begin at 9:00am.
Participant Supplies
- Custom Bike Plate Number
- Timing Chip
- Custom Event Shirt
- Unique Wooden Finisher's Medal
- Dirty Bike
Checklist of items to bring
- Mountain Bike (Hardtail or Full Suspension) (Rentals available)
- Helmet (Mandatory)
- Bike Shoes
- Cycling Clothes with sleeves
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
We look forward to seeing you on the trails!
- Expert – 20 Miles
- Sport – 15 Miles
- Novice – 10 Miles
- Junior (ages 12 – 17) – 5 Miles
- Awards: Top 3 Male/Female per Category, Top 3 Age Group
- Age Groups:
- 18 – 29
- 30 – 39
- 40 – 49
- 50 +
No refunds, transfers to another race, nor transferring of bibs to other cyclists.
Mobile-Friendly Registration


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In the Total Divas episode 'Orlando Strong," while Trinity makes an emotional visit to Pulse Nightclub after the mass shooting in October, Nikki and Brie argue over Bryan's depression. (Nikki thinks Brie is "sweeping" it under the rug). On a much lighter note, Lana hangs out with Nattie. Correction: Lana drives Nattie nuts. Nattie says all she does is talk, "I didn't even get to work out," Nattie complains to her mother who comes over for a visit.
[Check out the WWE Lana Action Figure]
Lana convinces Nattie's father Jim Neidhart (a former shot put champion) to show her how to shot put. They go outside and in the street, Nattie's father shows her some techniques. Lana seems to catch on quickly until, during one attempt, she releases the shot put and throws it at a car, shattering the windshield. Total Divas airs Wednesdays at 8pm on E!


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A person's emotions often significantly impact his or her behavior and performance in the real world. As such, understanding emotions is a key component of effective communication and understanding between individuals.
We are pleased to announce IBM Watson Emotion Analysis – a new beta function that detects joy, anger, disgust, sadness, and fear in text. IBM Watson Emotion Analysis is the latest function to join the IBM Watson AlchemyLanguage service on the Watson Developer Cloud.
What emotions does Emotion Analysis detect?
Joy: Joy or happiness has shades of enjoyment, satisfaction, and pleasure. There is a sense of well-being, inner peace, love, safety, and contentment. Â
Fear: Fear is a response to impending danger. It is a survival mechanism that is a reaction to some type of negative stimulus. It may be a mild caution or an extreme phobia.
Sadness: Sadness indicates a feeling of loss and disadvantage. When a person can be observed to be quiet, less energetic, and withdrawn, it may be inferred that sadness exists.
Disgust: Disgust is an emotional response of revulsion to something considered offensive or unpleasant. It is a sensation that refers to something revolting.
Anger: Anger is evoked due to injustice, conflict, humiliation, negligence, or betrayal. If anger is active, the individual attacks the target, verbally or physically. If anger is passive, the person silently sulks and feels tension and hostility.
How Can My Business Use Emotion Analysis?
Identifying emotions programmatically can be useful in a variety of applications, including the following:
- Product Feedback and Campaign Effectiveness: Monitor the emotional reaction of your target audience for your products, campaigns, and other marketing communications.Â
- Customer Satisfaction: Analyze customer surveys, emails, chats, and reviews to determine the emotional pulse of your customers.Â
- Contact-center Management, Automated agents, and Robots: Detect emotions in chats or other conversations and adapt to provide an appropriate response. For instance, direct a customer to a human agent if intense anger is detected.
How does it work?
We have developed an ensemble framework to infer emotions from a given text. Currently, our model works on English language text. To derive emotion scores from text, we use a stacked generalization-based ensemble framework. Stacked generalization is a general method of using a high-level model to combine lower-level models to achieve greater predictive accuracy. In the proposed ensemble framework, each lower-level model differs in terms of feature extraction processes and methods of classification. Each lower-level model first tokenizes the text and extracts features from tokens using n-grams (unigrams, bigrams, and trigrams), punctuation, emoticons, curse words, greeting words (such as hello, hi, and thanks), and sentiment polarity. After that, we apply them to the state-of-the-art machine learning-based models. Such models are trained using a variety of supervised machine learning approaches on a variety of datasets consisting of emotional statements that have been annotated by humans.
We report emotion scores for each given text in terms of the percentage of each emotion category: anger, disgust, fear, joy, and sadness. See the following example.
Given text: "the day I was told that I had been accepted as a student of economics."
Output emotion: [anger: 0.045, disgust: 0.023, joy: 0.93, fear: 0.035, sadness: 0.07]. Based on this, we can infer that this text expresses joy with 93% confidence.
How Accurate is Emotion Analysis?
We have conducted experiments on three datasets to determine the accuracy of our emotion estimation approach. We report the most frequently used metric, Macro-average F1 score, to report the performance. On sentence datasets, such as SemEval and ISEAR, our results show that the average performance of our ensemble model (macro-average F1 score is around 41% and 68%, respectively) is statistically better than the top reported accuracy by the state-of-the-art models (whose Macro-average F1 scores are around 37% and 63%, respectively). Similarly, on our Twitter dataset, based on the ground truth of human coders, our model performs significantly better than baselines (30% macro-average F1 score vs. 25% by the state-of-art models).
This is the current state of our work at the time of releasing this beta. We are continuously improving our models and look forward to releasing enhanced models in the future.The beta API is currently available for English text input. More details about this service, the science behind it, how to use the APIs, and example applications are available in the documentation. You can also try out the service at this demo link.
About the author:
Jalal Mahmud is a Research Staff Member at IBM Almaden Research Center and currently manages the Personality Analytics research group under IBM Watson Innovation. Dr. Mahmud joined IBM in Oct, 2008. His research interests include Computational User Modeling, Intelligent User Interface, Web Analytics, Social Media Analysis, Machine Learning and Data Mining. Dr. Mahmud earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the Department of Computer Science, from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. He received a MS degree in Computer Science from the same department in 2006 and B.SC in Computer Science and Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). He has extensively published papers in top rated conferences and journals. He received best paper nominations in top conferences such as WWW 2006, WWW 2007, IUI 2012, IUI 2013 and IUI 2014. Dr. Mahmud is an IBM Master Inventor. He has 22 issued patents, filed 16 other patents, and received 9th in the Platau Invention Achievement Award. He is also a member of IBM Academy of Technology.


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Join us at the 2nd Annual L.A. Beer and Food Festival on Saturday, January 27! Tickets include unlimited tastings of over 100 independent beers plus complimentary bites from local food partners! Tix available: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/la-beer-food-festival-2018-tickets-41576281778
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: January 14Donde Esta La Playa
Later Event: February 15Four Corners


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Hi guys, we have Avylinn Winter visiting today with the tour for her new release Toxic, we have a note from Avylinn, a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Avylinn Winter
When true love is a lie and pleasure turns to pain.
Adam Webb spent most of his teenage years in love with his best friend, Gabriel Connor, only to be thrown out of their shared apartment when he finally found the courage to reveal his feelings.
Seven months later, Adam's effort to save their lost friendship finds him more than he ever asked for. After all, being thrown out has to be better than thrown into a wall. However, Adam isn't ready to give up. Trapped and isolated in a dangerous relationship, he falls deeper and deeper into Gabriel's world.
Despite Adam's attempts to push them away, his friends are determined to help, but the man who fights hardest is Cameron McCain, Adam's photography teacher—a man who treasures what Gabriel does not.
They say love should conquer all. But when passion breeds fear and love turns toxic, will Adam make the right choice?
Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of domestic violence and dubious consent.
Avylinn Winter!
Toxic is the second novel in the Treacherous Chemistry series, following characters introduced in Volatile. However, it can be read as a stand-alone. It's a story about love, but also about the dangers of loving what you shouldn't.
I wrote this story as an attempt to understand why we sometimes fail to recognize what's bad for us, but most of all I wrote it for Adam, and all the Adams out there across the world. I wanted to give him strength, resilience and hope in a situation far too many has to navigate.
Toxic is by no means a light read, and it would be unfair of me to label it as such. I've been known to play with readers' emotions, and Toxic is no exception. And, although it is a story about love, some will likely say this novel contains elements of general fiction. However, as long as you know what you're up against, Toxic will hopefully give you something to remember and something to ponder.
You will get to meet Dante and Chris again, but also make a new acquaintance in Cameron. If nothing else, these three will undoubtedly make you smile when you most need it. I promise.
Toxic has been posted on Wattpad as a draft, which is the reason you see ratings before the release date. It collected over a million reads on the site before I took it down for publication, which gave me some confidence that Adam's story was worth telling despite the toll it took on me.
I hope you'll let sweet Adam tell you his story because it's an important one.
"Did I hurt you?" he asked as his clothed chest left my back.
I closed my eyes, struggling to keep myself from voicing the pain screaming its way through my body.
"No," I lied. Next time would be different. Next time, my heart would beat with pleasure.
He shuffled behind me, steps taken on the cold floor, first away then closer again. A soft gasp left my lips when he pulled my pants into place, leaving me to fasten them on my own. The brief moment of distance was enough to make me uncertain—abandoned with confusion.
Turning despite the throbbing in my lower back, I watched him wipe drops of sweat off his forehead. Both of us were stalling, not sure where we were headed or how to get there. This wasn't what I had expected. Had he been lying all these months?
As if he knew what went on in my head, he placed his hand on my cheek—a rare, loving gesture that instantly soothed the agony. I leaned into the touch and palmed his chest, savoring his warmth through the thin shirt.
"I… I'm scared, Gabe."
Afraid of what he felt, or what he didn't feel. Afraid of memories that would keep us apart.
He smiled, brushing my cheek with his thumb. "You don't have to be."
"Then I won't."
A brief silence followed, careful and questioning. I waited for him to say something, but perhaps he had as much trouble as I did with forming words. There wasn't much to say unless I wanted to spark a discussion that would urge me to stay and talk until dawn. We had months of catching up to do and plenty of issues to broach. Where did we go from here? What did it even mean? I wasn't sure.
"Are we…?" I began, but words continued to evade me. Perhaps it was best that way.
"Are we what?"
I moved a hesitant finger between us, pointing first at him, then me. "Us. What does this mean?"
He grasped my hand and stole it away from his chest. "Isn't it a bit too early to ask?"
Heat crept along my cheeks. He was right, of course.
I let my gaze wander, afraid to look directly into his warm, brown eyes. A clock on the far wall ticked with assured regularity. "I actually have to go." If I waited much longer, I would be late for dinner at my parents'. I also wanted to lick my wounds. It was difficult to keep the pain from showing.
"I won't keep you."
I knew what he meant, but the words had crappy timing. I bent down to pick up what was left of my shirt and closed my hands around the collar to stop them from shaking.
"Okay. Enjoy your Christmas." There wasn't much else to say.
I moved toward the door, turning to find that he'd followed me. He tipped my chin with his index finger and placed a soft kiss on my sensitive lips. It was enough to infuse me with hope and warmth all over again.
While we stood there in silence, I clasped the handle, trying to ready myself to leave.
He kissed me one last time. "No one can know."
The words caught me off guard, but I understood. It was logical—perhaps even expected.
Gabriel had thrown me out for harboring feelings toward him. He had made a statement that day, and going back on his word, without much thought, would affect his life too much. His position as a prominent player of the football team didn't help, either. He couldn't risk his scholarship. Right?
It was rational, in a strange kind of way.
Gabriel closed the door behind me. The click seemed to echo with loneliness, but I decided to wave it off. With one hand on the wall to support me, I struggled through the corridor—each painful step taking me farther away from a situation that felt far from finished. I wanted to smile, but somehow, I just couldn't.
As I slumped down on the bed inside my room, I almost thanked him for the pain inflicted. Without it, I doubted if I would have believed what had transpired between us. The jump from being thrown out to being wrapped in his embrace was too wide, too high. Impossible even.
My fingers trembled as I felt the bruises where he'd held me too hard. I winced but smoothed out my expression as soon as I got myself together, forcing myself to breathe and relax. Forget the pain. I repeated the thought like a mantra. It worked until I moved again. My jeans chafed against thin lines drawn by short nails on bare skin, but this time, instead of wincing, the slight ache made me smile—an odd sort of smile, but still a careful tug at the corner of my lips. I carried the evidence of passion, and it was enough to warm me from inside.
He wants me.
Pride Publishing | Amazon US | Amazon UK
About Avylinn!
Raised in one of the cold corners of the world, Avylinn spends her days either wrapped up in a blanket or basking in the precious sunlight. When she can't choose herself, she's holed up in an office working with climate research that has little to do with the worlds and characters she creates in her vivid dreams.
Always the emotional one, she has found her outlet in writing, voicing thoughts, emotions and fears through her characters that feel very much alive to her. And, what began as a hobby soon took more and more time in her life until she realized that she had left her old life behind and entered a new one where her emotions turned into a super power—ready to launch at her poor readers.
She recharges with the help of coffee, cinnamon buns, popcorn and occasionally a healthier alternative.
Social media links
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Wattpad


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MADISON — Officials from the former Madison Paper Industries will appear before the Maine State Board of Property Tax Review on Thursday in an effort to try to recover about $1 million in property taxes the mill says it was charged unduly but has already paid to the town.
The mill closed in 2016, laying off about 215 people, and shortly afterward asked the town of Madison for an abatement on its 2016 taxes.
On Thursday, the state board will hear an appeal from the former mill that was filed after the town rejected that request, saying it already had reduced Madison Paper's tax burden significantly in 2014 and 2015.
The mill was assessed at $72 million in 2016 — down from $229 million in 2013 — and the town asked it to pay about $1.5 million in taxes.
Madison Paper made the payment but has argued the valuation was too high for a facility that stopped operating in May 2016.
It sought to have the property assessment brought down to $25 million, which would have required a payment of about $520,000 in property taxes.
In a separate case, the mill's current owner, Somerset Acquisitions, also has filed appeals with the state board for its 2017 and 2018 taxes. No dates for a hearing have been set yet in those cases, Madison Town Manager Tim Curtis said.
"In both cases we felt the values were ridiculously low," Curtis said of both the Somerset Acquisitions appeals and the appeal by Madison Paper that will be heard this week.
However, Jonathan Block, an attorney for Madison Paper, said the company had conducted an independent appraisal that showed the value of the mill and its hydropower assets were worth less than half of what the town valued them at as of April 1, 2016.
This week's hearing, which will include testimony from both Madison Paper and the town, could last up to four days. If Madison Paper is successful in its appeal, the town could owe over $1 million for the taxes and interest, Curtis said, and would have to look at whether to borrow from a line of credit or dip into undesignated funds to pay back the taxes.
"The onus is on the taxpayer to prove our assessment is completely way off," Curtis said. "If they can't prove that, then we win; and if they do, then they win."
Rachel Ohm — 612-2368
Twitter: @rachel_ohm
Send questions/comments to the editors.
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Blueberries and potatoes, naturally, but are yellow field peas also a viable crop for Maine?
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EA has announced its first paid DLC for Star Wars: Battlefront called Outer Rim. The new expansion will come with two new playable heroes, a brand new mode called Extraction, new Star Card and weapons, and new maps set on Sullust and Tatoouine.
RELATED: Star Wars: Battlefront Review
EA detailed the new mode called Extraction:
Rebel forces have entered some of the most dangerous places in the Outer Rim in order to extract a valuable shipment of resources. Now they must bring the shipment to their transport ship before time runs out. The Empire has arrived to stop them from reaching the extraction point.
The new heroes are Greedo and Nien Nunb, in case you have no idea who they are, take a look at the picture to put a face to the name.
The new Star Cards and weapons were also highlighted
- Relby V-10 rifle
- DT-12 blaster pistol
- Scatter Gun (Star Card)
- Dioxis Grenade (Star Card)
- Adrenaline Stim (Star Card)
As for the maps, EA did not shed any light on them, but the screenshots show that Sullust will take you to the smelting area where the fate of Anakin Skywalker was sealed. As for the new map on Tatooine, it seems to be centred around Jabba's throne room.
No release date has been revealed for Battlefront Outer Rim, but expect the DLC to drop in March. If you own the Season Pass, then you will get the DLC for free, if not, get ready to fork out some cash for it


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Fri, Oct 20, 8:30am by Staff Writer
Week 7 of the 2017 NFL season is already upon us, with week 6 proving to be a brutal week for injuries.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a broken collarbone on Monday morning when his team lost a division game at Minnesota.
Elsewhere, the Chiefs undefeated start to the season came to an end, beaten by familiar foes the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have won their past three matches against the Chiefs.
The Philadelphia Eagles roared to the top of the NFC, with a win at Carolina on Thursday Night Football and look the most impressive team on both sides of the ball in that conference at the moment.
Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders
Friday, 20 October 2017, 11.25am at Oakland Coliseum, Oakland
After a nail-biting 17-16 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday, this is a must-win game for the Raiders, who will fall to 2-5 with a loss on Thursday Night Football.
They welcome division rival Kansas City to Oakland, with the Chiefs looking to stop their losing streak at one game.
Kansas City has dominated this series in recent times, winning five straight matches.
Kansas City has covered the handicap in 11 of its past 14 visits to Oakland, as well as the past six against the AFC West.
Despite a broken bone in his back, Raiders quarterback Derek Carr this week insisted it wouldn't hamper the Raiders game plan.
Against the Chargers, Carr did appear limited and often threw short yardage passes as opposed to anything down the field.
The NFL is unpredictable and despite a four game slide and statistics point to a Chiefs victory, a short week and the Raiders desperation to keep their season alive makes them an enticing handicap option at home.
Best bet: Oakland Raiders to cover +3.0 at $1.94 at Sportsbet
Carolina Panthers at Chicago Bears
Monday, 23 October 2017, 4am at Soldier Field, Chicago
After a tough loss to the Philadelphia Eagles at home on Thursday Night Football, the Carolina Panthers will be eager to bounce back on the road at Chicago.
The Panthers cling to a slim one game lead over the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons in a competitive NFC South division.
In their past four meetings since 2010, the Bears have had Carolina's number, winning three of those games.
The Panthers are 4-0-0 on the handicap after a loss, meanwhile Chicago are 4-0 on the handicap in their last four home games against a team with a winning road record such as Carolina.
Bears rookie quarterback Mitch Trubisky was outstanding last weekend in the Bears' 27-24 overtime win against the Baltimore Ravens.
A highlight of Chicago's game plan this year has been their rushing, with Jordan Howard running for 167 yards on 36 carries last time out.
By contrast, the Panthers love to throw the ball with quarterback Cam Newton.
This match will go down to the wire, but Carolina seem the more steady of the two teams in this matchup.
Best bet: Carolina Panthers to win at $1.59 at Sportsbet
Atlanta Falcons versus New England Patriots
Monday, 23 October 2017, 11.30am at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro
Sunday Night Football in week 7 sees a rematch of the epic 2016 Super Bowl between the Atlanta Falcons and the New England Patriots.
On that night, it was superstar Tom Brady who electrified the Falcons, who choked away the largest second-half lead in Super Bowl history to lose in overtime.
Both of these teams have been out of sorts thus far in 2017.
The Patriots defense has been horrendous, while the Falcons have not been able to get their offense going as consistently as they have in seasons past.
Giving away a 17-0 lead last weekend at home to the Miami Dolphins will irk coach Dan Quinn.
Conversely, Bill Belichick would have been less than satisfied with the Patriots scrappy 7-point win over the New York Jets.
Tom Brady is 4-0 in his regular-season career against Atlanta, completing 67.2 per cent of his passes for nearly 1,200 yards, nine touchdowns and one interception.
In a rare Super Bowl rematch the following season, the Patriots should be able to handle an inconsistent Falcons team at home.
The price offered on a New England win at home is outrageous, given they have arguably the best ever quarterback on their team.
Best bet: New England to win at $1.57 at Sportsbet
Online gambling is growing in New Zealand, but critics say new government ideas for the regulation of gambling websites focus on what…
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text: Tom Petty was one of the biggest songwriters of his generation, comparable to Reed, Springsteen and Dylan. He passed away on Monday, and I wanted to celebrate his career by doing an RIP show to cover the life and times he saw over his 40+ years as a musician. As always, go out and buy some albums, but if you don't think you're familiar with Tom Petty, let me show you just how mistaken you are. These songs are the fabric of generations, and we will not see his like again any time soon.


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Atlas Concorde porcelain stoneware stone-effect floor tiles stand out in an original residential project in Lyon, adding a natural look and style to numerous outdoor surfaces. The innovative living projects of Villa Lyon and Villa Particulier feature a simple design, in which clear and clean lines create an elegant and contemporary style.
During the design phase the Sunrock stone-effect collection of porcelain stoneware surfaces was chosen, a project that includes five different stone looks used in architecture, actualised in a series with high-end aesthetics and design functionality. The exceptionally natural appeal of the surfaces, the result of accurate aesthetic research, results in an advanced ceramic product where each stone has a different appearance recalling the original material.
The textured surface provides stylistic continuity to the residential project, with applications that run from the interior to the ample outdoor spaces. Sunrock Travertino White's textured version ensures a great look and excellent technical properties. At the French villa the textured outdoor flooring wraps around the pool area, including the border areas that come into contact with the water. The textured porcelain stoneware has made it possible to design elegant walkways, stairs and outdoor shower area with practical and safe surfaces. The outdoor design is adorned with dynamic Brick and Mosaic decorations, which complete the Sunrock stone-effect porcelain stoneware project. The play of geometric forms in different sizes, and the natural light stone effect of the surfaces provide a strong identity and stylistic continuity to this residential project combining natural and contemporary appeal.
Credit photo E.Saillet


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- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR813172061.533.5 there's another one, Smith has been chasing the ball outside off several times, risky gamble playing so far away from his body, this time he connects, but it is only an edge, and a simple catch for Kamran Akmal 22/2541010125.002.1 massive wicket, Hafeez has a stellar record against left-handers, and he gets Gayle on the first ball he bowls to him, Gayle stretches forward to play the ball, he plays down the wrong line and misses the ball outside off, his back leg is out of the crease, the keeper takes the bails off and there will be no Gaylestorm today 10/131293422106.8910.1 a quicker one from Afridi, Simmons goes for the cut though there isn't too much width, did that hit the bat? Kamran Akmal doesn't think so, he's appealing for an lbw, the umpire is unmoved, neither has Simmons initially, the ball has dribbled away to the off side, the batsmen decide to try pinching a single, direct hit and Simmons is caught short, that lbw shout looked good as well, maybe just hit outside off 61/320182911111.1110.4 Afridi is doing it for Pakistan here, second key wicket in the over, both set batsmen dismissed, Samuels goes for the cut, bottom edges it on to the stumps 67/446263724176.9219.1 Bravo goes for a big swipe, loses his balance and can only bottom edge the ball onto his leg, the ball drops near the stumps, Bravo is on the floor, Sammy wants the single, Bravo decides to take on Kamran Akmal though he has lost his bat, Akmal hits direct, the end of the Bravo show, Tanvir was actually asking Kamran to not throw there 152/6510100050.0013.5 Ramdin decides enough of the singles and goes for the big hit, he went for the sweep, connects well but not well enough to clear deep midwicket, not sure Ramdin was the man who should have been trying to clear the ropes, a role pretty much everyone else in the side looks better suited for 81/5not out42202852210.00not out00400-Extras9 (lb 4, w 5)TOTAL166/6 (20 Overs, RR: 8.3)Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Chris Gayle, 2.1 ov), 2-22 (Dwayne Smith, 3.5 ov), 3-61 (Lendl Simmons, 10.1 ov), 4-67 (Marlon Samuels, 10.4 ov), 5-81 (Denesh Ramdin, 13.5 ov), 6-152 (Dwayne Bravo, 19.1 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ 0s 4s 6s WD NB Mohammad Hafeez 2 0 15 1 7.50 8 3 0 0 0 Sohail Tanvir 4 0 27 1 6.75 14 3 1 1 0 Zulfiqar Babar 4 0 27 1 6.75 13 3 1 2 0 Shahid Afridi 4 0 23 1 5.75 11 0 1 0 0 Umar Gul 2 0 29 0 14.50 4 1 3 1 0 Saeed Ajmal 4 0 41 0 10.25 9 3 3 1 0
- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR011000.000.1 what a start for West Indies! a swinging yorker from Santokie, and the centurion from the previous game is gone for a golden duck, superb delivery from Santokie, he may not have the pace but he got this one to curl in the air, too much for Shehzad, it swung from around off towards middle, that was hitting low on middle stump, the bat came down really late, this match is swiftly unravelling for Pakistan 0/1038000.001.3 Badree strikes, Bravo is dancing at extra cover after taking a simple catch, those dance moves aren't as simple though, Akmal watched two accurate deliveries from Badree, decided he had to go after the next, flat bats it to extra cover, easy for Bravo, both Pakistan openers gone for ducks 1/21932440059.3710.3 and now Hafeez is gone, looking for the big hit that Pakistan need with alarming regularity from now on, top edges it and that swirls to Gayle at extra cover 37/515110020.003.6 the Badree googly has done it, is that the game? the big wicket of Umar Akmal, who after playing a series of dot balls, charged out for a big shot, he missed, the ball snuck between bat and pad, Ramdin collects and the stumps are flashing, Pakistan are 9 for 3 in the fourth over 9/32670033.335.3 Malik's slender fanbase is going to get thinner still as he's failed again, misses the ball outside off after coming way down the track, easy for Ramdin, Badree has his third, Pakistan are 13 for 4, that looked poor from Malik, he was backing away so far from leg, that Badree pushed it wide of off, Malik had no chance of reaching it 13/41822241181.8111.3 there's the wicket, not an innings Maqsood is going to look back fondly on, he has been all at sea today, his misery ends after he skips down the track, only to miss the ball and give Ramdin another stumping, Maqsood went for a massive heave, got nowhere near the ball 42/618122102150.0015.5 full ball outside off, Afridi walked down the track, Narine fired that full and wide of off, once again a Pakistan batsman shows his hand too early, Narine sent it so wide that Afridi couldn't reach it, Ramdin gets another stumping 75/814121411116.6615.2 there's the wicket for Narine, a quicker one from him, Tanvir plays that favourite slog of his to midwicket, ends up as a low catch there, Pakistan have lost their seventh 74/747120057.1417.5 West Indies are through, Pakistan's record of always making the semi-finals in the World T20 is over, Pakistan have been bowled out for the same number of runs West Indies scored in their final five overs, the end comes as Gul top edges a slog to deep midwicket, West Indies are dancing in joy, waving the flag with their supporters 82/101350033.3316.5 full ball hitting low on the base of the stumps, Pakistan are nine down, one wicket away from a proper hammering 78/9not out3450075.00Extras2 (w 2)TOTAL82 all out (17.5 Overs, RR: 4.59)Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Ahmed Shehzad, 0.1 ov), 2-1 (Kamran Akmal, 1.3 ov), 3-9 (Umar Akmal, 3.6 ov), 4-13 (Shoaib Malik, 5.3 ov), 5-37 (Mohammad Hafeez, 10.3 ov), 6-42 (Sohaib Maqsood, 11.3 ov), 7-74 (Sohail Tanvir, 15.2 ov), 8-75 (Shahid Afridi, 15.5 ov), 9-78 (Saeed Ajmal, 16.5 ov), 10-82 (Umar Gul, 17.5 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ 0s 4s 6s WD NB K Santokie 2.5 0 9 2 3.17 11 0 0 2 0 S Badree 4 0 10 3 2.50 14 0 0 0 0 MN Samuels 3 0 21 0 7.00 8 0 2 0 0 AD Russell 3 0 15 2 5.00 7 1 0 0 0 SP Narine 4 0 16 3 4.00 14 0 1 0 0 DR Smith 1 0 11 0 11.00 3 1 1 0 0
Match Details
Player Of The Match
Match number
Hours of play (local time)
Match days
TV Umpires
Reserve Umpire
Match Referee
Match Notes
- Powerplay: Overs 0.1 - 6.0 (Mandatory - 39 runs, 2 wickets)
- West Indies: 50 runs in 7.5 overs (47 balls), Extras 2
- West Indies: 100 runs in 16.3 overs (99 balls), Extras 8
- 6th Wicket: 50 runs in 27 balls (DJ Bravo 32, DJG Sammy 18, Ex 4)
- West Indies: 150 runs in 18.6 overs (114 balls), Extras 9
- Innings Break: West Indies - 166/6 in 20.0 overs (DJG Sammy 42, AD Russell 0)
- Powerplay: Overs 0.1 - 6.0 (Mandatory - 13 runs, 4 wickets)
- Pakistan: 50 runs in 12.3 overs (75 balls), Extras 2
Match CoverageAll Match News
Hafeez apologises for Pakistan performance
Mohammad Hafeez was asked about his future as T20 captain, his position at No. 3 and the continued selection of Kamran Akmal and Shoaib Malik after his side failed to make the semi-finals of World T20
West Indies' best win, worst scores in the Powerplays
Stats highlights from West Indies' win against Pakistan at Mirpur, World T20, Group 2
Prankistan on All Fools' Day
Tweet report for the World T20 game between Pakistan and West Indies
The Afridi-Gul synchronised double slide
Plays of the day for the World T20 match between Pakistan and West Indies in Mirpur
West Indies bring back their fear factor
The ultimate entertainers, West Indies now have the batting power to match the threat their fast bowlers brought in the 1980s
Number of stumpings in this match, by both wicketkeepers together, equals the most in a T20I
Powerplay low
Runs scored off the Powerplay by Pakistan, equals the lowest by a Full Member in T20Is
No. of boundaries Pakistan hit during the first six overs, the fifth such instance in T20Is
Ducks for both openers
This was only the eighth time both openers from a team have been dismissed for ducks, in 794 T20 international innings
Sizzling Sammy
That is Darren Sammy's strike rate in this tournament. He has 101 runs in four innings and has been out only once
A new high
Runs scored off Saeed Ajmal's fourth over - his most expensive in T20Is
Runs scored off Umar Gul's second over, his second most expensive in T20Is
Too many dots
West Indies did not score off those many deliveries during the Powerplay. They ran only four singles in the first six overs
When Gayle fails ...
That's West Indies' average score when Chris Gayle gets dismissed in single digits (15 innings)
Gayle v Hafeez
No. of runs Chris Gayle has scored off six deliveries from Mohammad Hafeez. He has been dismissed three times
Poor in Powerplay
Dwayne Smith's strike-rate in the first six overs of this World T20 (before today) - 48 off 62 balls


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Polka dot bow tie
€ 15.99€ 9.99
incl. VAT
All item details
Suit up! The fine textured stripes and polka dots give this bow tie its exquisite, eye-catching look and add the perfect finishing touch to your suit.
- Pre-tied bow tie
- Textured stripes and polka dots
- With adjustable ties and a hook clasp
Size info
- Breadth: Approx. 52 cm
- Length: Approx. 12 cm
Material and care
- Outer fabric: 100% Polyester
Matching item
Combine the item with these recommendations


text: Show 10 5 10 15 20 50 100 250 Sort by year (new to old) Actions News feed Embed this list Save this search Mark all Export Your filters: cql: author="Vanhooreweder, B." or (type exact bookEditor and editor="Vanhooreweder, B.") Mark conference C1 Next generation concrete surface (NGCS) : finally a quiet and sustainable road pavement? B. Vanhooreweder, Pieter De Winne (UGent) , A. Scheers, L. Rens and A. Beeldens (2018) 13th International Symposium on Concrete Roads .


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AskNicely + Zendesk Integrations
In a matter of minutes and without a single line of code, Zapier allows you to connect AskNicely and Zendesk, with as many as 27 possible integrations. Are you ready to find your productivity superpowers?
Send AskNicely NPS surveys following new Zendesk tickets
For any organisation, measuring the effectiveness of their support team(s) is important - it helps identify how effectively you're addressing customer's needs and can help identify strong performers within your team. An AskNicely NPS survey gives you a way to quickly measure customer satisfaction - the simple format of the survey means that customers are more inclined to respond, improving the quality of your results. While being simple, NPS also give you more detail than a 3 or 5 star rating system. AskNicely's tools also provide ways to automatically tag and filter the additional text-based feedback collected to make results more measurable.
Note: You can set an optional wait period to send a survey a number of hours after the ticket is created you can also use the view selection in the Zendesk step to define which tickets should trigger a survey - eg. you may only want to send a survey after a ticket is closed, so use a view that contains only closed tickets
How this Zendesk-AskNicely integration works
- A new ticket is created by Zendesk
- Zapier sends an AskNicely NPS survey to the customer with an optional wait period.
Apps involved
- Zendesk
- AskNicely
It's easy to connect AskNicely + Zendesk and requires absolutely zero coding experience—the only limit is your own imagination.
Triggers when a customer responds with a score or comment.
Add a new survey participant.
Triggers when a new user is created.
Attach a file to an existing ticket.
Triggers when a new ticket is added to a view.
Create a new user.
Triggers when a new group is created.
Create a new ticket.
Triggers when a new forum is added.
Create a new organization.
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Neerup: P. Jeppesen Handmade High Grade Smooth Bent Pot (6)
Product Number: 002-203-2252
While Peder is best known for his hand-finished Neerup line of pipes (which make up the majority of pipes he produces), he also has a lot to offer in the way of briars made by hand from start to finish. This is one of them, a very broad, charmingly stocky, flame-grained rendition of the Pot, with a very short-throw saddle stem sprouting from a crown-shaped, leaf-motif silver mount.
- Eric N. Squires
Your PriceSold
Ask a question about this product.
The pipe you see is the pipe you receive. Click here to see our photography process.
Measurements & Other Details
- Length: 4.95 in./125.73 mm.
- Weight: 2.30 oz./65.20 g.
- Bowl Height: 1.71 in./43.43 mm.
- Chamber Depth: 1.27 in./32.26 mm.
- Chamber Diameter: 0.85 in./21.59 mm.
- Outside Diameter: 1.85 in./46.99 mm.
- Stem Material: Acrylic
- Filter: None
- Shape: Bent Pot
- Finish: Smooth
- Material: Briar
- Country: Denmark


text:
My original inspiration came from two projects in February's Craft Stamper Magazine - 'Their Hearts Connected' by Louise Crosbie (AKA Zuzu) and 'A Splash of Paint' by Trish Latimer. The minute I saw them I knew I wanted to make something similar and get very painty and inky!! I had already decided to do something romantic with hearts using my canvases - it is February after all - and originally tried a red, and then a red and purple colourway (you may remember the red canvases from waaaaaay back).
Somehow it ended up too harsh looking so I softened it with gesso, some pink and added a touch of turquoise and I like it much better.
I really like using canvases 'backwards' for the possibilities they give as a kind of shadow box and I had two hanging about waiting for a project. The only trouble was they are quite small - about 7 x 10 cms - so finding teeny tiny things to go inside was a bit of a challenge. For the main message on the front which I wanted to be clear I stamped on to tissue first and then adhered with gel medium - I always find this works really well.
I did wonder at one point if I
had over mixed my metaphors so to speak as I seemed to have some funky paint effects going on and then went all vintage with a cherub and some tiny paper roses - but I decided the colours held it all together.
And at last a use for one of those little corked bottles!! Bought them a year ago and they have been languishing in my stash ever since. Filled it with tiny silver stars as I couldn't find any tiny hearts in my stash.
Anyhow, enough of my waffling. If you would like to enter the Art Draw then leave a comment on this post before 9.00 pm on Saturday 25th February.
International players are very welcome. It always seems a bit cheeky to say this as I am not very good at any of this technical linking stuff but I would be very happy for you to link from your own blogs - the more the merrier.


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Edith's Bullet Journal: Day 7/
Here's some scribbilings of what I'm considering adding to Edith's new Bullet Journal! Very excited!
It was Saturday, and Edith had the day off. She had yet to complete her weekly house cleaning, so she checked that off straight away in the morning.
Myshuno Meadows is a lovely park, though it seems to be setup more for weddings than the usual anticipated park activities. Edith will need to remember this park for later, when the day finally comes!
It had all the amenities with no setup required. It had a building nearby that Edith visited (mainly to use the bathrooms). It was very fancy, and it would be a great place for a reception.
Edith consulted a guide map about the park, though it didn't tell her any information she couldn't already learn from looking around.
Edith decided to change and go for a jog around the park.
I enjoyed following Edith around on the paths and getting to observe the beautiful scenery.
The park was a lot bigger than we first realized!
More park! Lots of places to sit and enjoy nature, and I even spotted a place to go fishing.
Edith took advantage of the bathrooms to change back into her normal clothes.
After all that running, Edith was hungry so she had some Pho from this foodstall that was in the park. She was awful at using the chopsticks, and the food was a bit too spicy for her, but she enjoyed it anyway.
Finally, she needed to check one more thing off her to do list- watch Roaring Vice!
Edith found the movie sort of boring, though she did not fall asleep this time. So far, Edith is 0/2 with movies. I wonder if she likes any genre out there! What sorts of movies do you think she'd like?
Edith was excited to see an announcement on the bulletin board in the hallway of her apartment building about the romance festival that evening. Her romantic life is non-existent currently! She spent a long time getting ready...a long bath in some rose soaks and a mud mask, as well as putting on an adorable party outfit!
She didn't see anyone of interest when she first got there, so she checked out the merchandise and purchased a snowglobe.
While waiting for some attractive, age-appropriate people to show up she got some vague and useless advice from the Love Guru.
She walked around for awhile, but no one caught her eye. A little bummed, she went back to her apartment to go to sleep.
Here's the last shot of her first weekly spread! She had a successful and productive week! She learned that she needs more space in her layout, so she purchased a new bullet journal. Edith is a bit of a slob, and this apparently extends to her journal. She'll try to work on that.
Much to our surprise, her journal arrived early! I've started setting up some initial spreads! Here is a sneak peak!
Thanks for reading! I love comments, questions, suggestions, questions for Edith herself, or anything else...just leave a note below!


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Instead of taking all the risk of starting a counseling practice, another alternative is to join an existing practice as a contract therapist. Basically, you receive the infrastructure to operate your own private practice, but you are doing so as a contracted provider. For repayment of the counseling firm's amenities and referrals, you will likely pay anywhere from 30-50% of your gross income back to the counseling practice owner.
For some, this is an excellent trade off. Just think, you only pay one bill a month to the owner of the practice and you don't have to worry about anything else. They take care of insurance billing, help with referrals, provide you an office, maintain the office equipment, and do all the "extras". All you have to do is show up and provide counseling services.
What are the downsides you may be asking? Though this is a good option for clinicians, it does have some drawbacks. Here are the ones I will address:
Lack of freedom and choice- though you have the freedom to choose your own schedule, you are accountable to the structure of the owner's practice. Every owner is different, so make sure to interview them with specific questions before agreeing to join the practice.
Monthly fee- in some cities/states, this can get very expensive. Make sure you do the math and realize the actual gross income you will earn after you pay your percentage back to the owner.
No compete clause- this is probably my number one hangup with joining a practice. I completely understand the rationale behind the clause, but make sure you fully understand what this means. Let's say you work for a counseling firm for a year and decide to branch out on your own. The "no compete" clause could require you to transfer all your clients to another clinician within the practice and you would not be able to see clients in that area for a specific period of time. Essentially, it would cause you to go back to an agency or school for employment. In Texas, we are a "right to work" state, so it's typically not real enforceable, but it's still something to consider. Again, before entering into an agreement with a practice, review the contract thoroughly. Make sure you are 100% aware of what you are getting into.
Change in fee percentage- make sure the contract stipulates your percentage will not go up, or at least have some recourse if the owner does increase your fees. I've had this happen to me before and it can create some friction when you feel that you are losing money so that the company can expand.
The financial cap- working as a contract counselor, there will be a cap in the money you can make. Because you don't have any ownership, your ability to grow in the business is minimal.
In short, if you like the idea of being a counselor, setting your own hours, and not dealing with the stress of running a business; being a contract therapist might be the way to go.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, make sure you consider all options before contracting with someone else. It might be a good way to gain some experience, but consider the other opportunities available.
In the next post, I'll highlight the other side of this equation: we will look at becoming a counseling practice owner that contracts with therapists.


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Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Thursday constituted a Communication Strategy Group in the All India Congress Committee (AICC).
The list includes many of the Congress veteran leaders:
– Mallikarjun Kharge
– Ghulam Nabi Azad
– Anand Sharma
– P. Chidambaram
– Mani Shankar Aiyar
– Jairam Ramesh
– Jyotiraditya Scindia
– Sushmita Deb
– Randeep Surjewala
– Rajeev Gowda
"The group will meet on a daily basis and assist the communication department of the AICC," stated a press release.
The Congress president has also assigned the task of looking after party affairs in Jharkhand to a new team comprising R.P.N. Singh, Umang Singhar and Mainul Haque.
Similarly, in Chhattisgarh, a new team has been formed by Sonia, in place of B.K. Hariprasad and Bhakta Charan Das. The state party affairs will now be looked after by P.L. Punia, Kamleshwar Patel and Arun Oraon.


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The latest patch for the PC version of Universe at War: Earth Assault has been released. Weighing in at 28.4megs, the patch adds new maps, balances the gameplay and fixes the bugs.
N4G is a community of gamers posting and discussing the latest game news. It's part of NewsBoiler, a network of social news sites covering today's pop culture.