text:
What are QR Codes?
My favorite definition says that QR codes are bar codes on steroids. It makes sense. QR codes (abbreviated from Quick Response Codes) are scannable images very much like the UPC codes and bar codes we see on items in stores. They're just image representations of two-dimensionally encoded information.
…still sounds a little techie, right? That's okay. You don't have to know how QR codes work to make and use them for advertising and marketing.
Making your own QR codes and using them for marketing is VERY easy and totally free!
…unless you go with a method that requires printing costs, but even a print campaign using QR codes can generate a lot of interest and web traffic for very little cost.
Why Should I Care About QR Codes?
Honestly, the potential to directly connect with smartphone users and to sidestep the issue of trying to write down a URL or trying to memorize it – is just incredible.
- It's more convenient that trying to find a pen and a scrap of paper.
- You won't have to worry about losing that scrap of paper or reading your own handwriting.
- It eliminates the issue of LONG domain names.
- It eliminates typos or misspelled words in a link.
- It's relatively new technology, so people will be apt to try it just to see what happens.
Data from advertising efforts already shows that using QR codes increases conversion rate (from potential attention to a sale). It also shows that the immediacy speeds up the sales process to a more probable sale, in less time.
Apparently over 14 million QR codes were scanned by Americans last year. That's 6.2 % of smartphone users, and more will start using them as they discover what they are and how to scan them on their phones.
The numbers are already great, and they're just going to keep getting better.
Making Your Own QR Codes
First, you should know that QR codes are really EASY to create – for free! There are several options out there, but my first test was quick and successful using a free online tool at http://qrcode.kaywa.com/.
1. Just select the type of information you want the QR code to trigger… a URL (web address), a Text, a Phone Number, or a SMS.
2. Type in the data.
3. Select the size you'd like for your QR code.
4. Click Generate.
5. An image and html code to the permalink for your newly created QR code will appear on the left.
You can right-click the image and select Save picture as… to save it as a png or bmp file.
You can also select the html code generated for the permalink to the QR code if you want to insert it on your web site or blog.
I found another free online QR Generator that incorporates images or logos, too. It's pretty cute. The resolution of the original image is clear, and I love the color options.
Scanning QR Codes
Ideally, other people will be scanning your QR codes, so you may not even need to know how to scan QR codes yourself.
Me? I need to test. There's no way I'm sending a QR code out into the world without knowing what it's going to send or trigger. Well, I actually already know since I created it, but I must test.
So, what do you need to scan a QR code, and how do you do it?
All you need is an app (application/software) that reads QR codes and a camera on your smartphone.
There are several free and paid apps for pretty much any smartphone or device with a camera. Just search for "QR" in iTunes, the Android Market, or your favorite source for apps that work on your smartphone.
You MAY already have a QR code reader on your smartphone. Both the ShopSavvy and RedLaser shopping apps (originally used to scan UPC/bar codes) can also read QR codes. Both ShopSavvy and RedLaser are available for iPhone, Android, and Windows smartphones.
Regardless of the app, the steps are pretty much the same.
- Open your preferred app for reading QR codes.
- Point the smartphone's camera at the QR code. (Click the scan button to open the camera if it doesn't open automatically.)
- Position the QR code within the camera's guide lines/grid and hold the camera steady while the camera captures the image and processes the action.
Go ahead and point your phone's camera at this QR code and see where it takes you. You can point your camera toward a printed copy of the QR code or the image displayed here on the screen.
Once your smartphone processes and reads the QR code, the designated action will occur. This may be opening a web page/URL, or prompting you to see if you WANT to open the web page. It could be text data, a phone number, or whatever action has been encoded.
So, I have a functional QR code, now what do I do with it?
The marketing possibilities are endless. You can print the QR codes or display them on screens. They're easily read by smartphones either way, so use your imagination.
QR codes have been used on many of the following already.
- Business cards
- Bookmarks
- Brochures
- Book covers
- Magazine ads
- Newspapers
- Web pages and blog posts
- Stickers and magnets
- Flyers and signs
- T shirts
- Scarves
- Ball caps
- Key chains
QR Codes can trigger:
- textual information
- contact information
- a prompt to share a link on a social network
- a link directly to a web page
- a link to a contest entry form
- a link to an email opt-in form
- a coupon code
- a video
- etc.
The potential is wide open. How will you use QR codes to connect with your customers?
Seriously, we've already listed several options above (t shirts, business cards, magazine ads, on web sites, etc.). How else could we use QR codes to connect and draw in our readers? Feel free to comment with ideas and suggestions below.
…and check out even more QR Code goodness over at LearningInHand.com.


text:
Murphy eyes more Ports pain
William Murphy has predicted a ferocious test for his Coleraine side against Portadown in today's Irish Cup sixth round showdown.
The Linfield legend, who is assisting former Blues team-mate Oran Kearney at the Bannsiders, knows Ronnie McFall's charges will be desperate to take out their Premiership frustration on the north-west side.
There will be tension in the air at Shamrock Park as Europe's longest serving manager needs a victory to keep silverware hopes alive in his final season as Ports supremo. Coleraine are capable of delivering a knockout blow and they will be looking to take advantage of any nervousness in the home camp.
Murphy, however, knows that only a solid and strong performance from his side will keep their Irish Cup dream alive.
"Portadown's league form has been indifferent, a lot of players are leaving or have signed pre-contracts with other clubs," said 'Winkie' who earned legendary status at Linfield, making more than 630 appearances for the Blues as he became one of the club's all-time greats.
"They can't win the league title but they will certainly be looking to have a say in who does and I'm sure they will view the Irish Cup as their big shot at silverware. Ronnie (McFall) will have the Ports well up for this one and we will have to also show that desire.
"The Irish Cup is our biggest knockout trophy and everyone wants to be involved in the final and win it."
Belfast Telegraph

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Oct 152012
Ron Gray focuses in on the trial judge who first heard Kari Simpson's defamation suit against Rafe Mair. Hear why Justice Mary Marvyn Koenigsberg was NOT in good standing and therefore not only should have disqualified herself from the case, but should also have been removed from the bench! This is yet another blatant example of judges and lawyers protecting each others sins.
One Response to "Drive For Justice 18: The Players, Pt. 5 – The Judge and Her Paramour"
the sound is way too loud. You need a volume control
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.


text:
EDB Repair Tool
Repair Damaged Exchange Database
Having hassle free, smooth and immediate communication matters the most in numerous organizations. Communication via emails is very crucial and any disturbance with the process may hamper the daily schedule of employees along with managers. There are a number of email clients available, but MS outlook is the most sought after one.
It works in collaboration with MS Exchange Server that acts as a repository of entire user mailboxes containing emails and data related to them. Emails along with properties such as To, From, CC, BCC, Subject, Date, attachments and related information such as folders, tasks, journals, calendar entries, contacts, address books etc. are stored in EDB files.
For emails to work properly, there should be constant network connectivity and any hindrance in it, may lead to delivery failure. The worst-case scenario could be emails and user mailbox getting corrupt. Under such circumstances, one can retrieve the user mailbox from EDB files that have entire database stored. However, some severe Server crash issues leave us with no backup in EDB files as well.
What happens when MS Exchange Distribution list is lost?
Distribution lists are considered very useful when sending emails to certain people at one go. Even if the email data is recovered but you end up losing DL, the troublesome situation remains the same. DL consists of different categories according to the organization and is required for proper information distribution.
- Go to Deleted Items folder and click on Tools menu, choose Recover Deleted items
- After locating DL, click on Recover Selected Items
- Under main message list at the bottom of navigation page, recovered DL can be dragged to the contacts button
No matter how much security you implement, MS Exchange's EDB files may get corrupt every now and then and using manual method for EDB repair may fail altogether. Aforementioned steps may help in minor crash but in cases of severe database destruction, using a third party software may be fruitful.
EDB Repair tool promises complete recovery of EDB files along with included data with it. The software successfully recovers private as well as public EDB files and resolves the checksum, dirty shutdown errors. EDB file is recovered and stored in new or old PST file. Three recovery modes namely, Automatic analyze and repair, advance scan and rebuild corrupt database not only perform EDB repair but also helps to create a new database that can be directly mounted on Exchange Server.
It is extremely easy to download and use this software. User just needs to download the software and after installing, start the recovery process. Recovered files are displayed in a hierarchical manner for the user to select and save accordingly.
The tool can be tried before purchasing also. With the help of trial version, user can analyze performance, features and functionalities of the product before buying. Trial version works exactly like the complete edition with only some restrictions. One can recover unlimited files but to save any of them, purchase of full software is mandatory.
My whole Exchange Database got corrupt. I tried every troubleshooting method but the complete database loss was too grave an error to be repaired. I even tried many recovery software programs...David Samuel


text:
During today's Project: Tornado Interactive visit at Carlson Elementary in Rockford we received a great question that stumped both Cyndi and me! When the question was posed Cyndi and I just looked at each other and laughed. How could we not know what state has the fewest tornadoes? We guessed Alaska or Hawaii but here is the top-ten list for states with the least likelihood of tornadoes.
Click on the map to zoom in. The lower the number, the less likely a tornado is to strike. Alaska is at zero!
P.S. After looking at this graphic further, I noticed that the National Climate Data Center, added Puerto Rico to statehood. The poor folks in Rhode Island ran out of luck. hahaha -ES
Posted under weather
This post was written by qni_it on May 18, 2010


text:
Prior to abolition in 1865, Mississippi was one of the biggest slave-holding states in the South, with Natchez being the site of America's third largest slave market. The 1860 census shows 436,631 of Mississippi's inhabitants — 55 per cent of the population — were slaves. These were concentrated in the hands of wealthy plantation owners; the majority of whites did not own human property. Amongst those that did, over half held fewer than five whilst the very rich held in excess of twenty. Slave ownership was thus a mark of high social standing. On large plantations, slaves were organised along hierarchical lines with house slaves representing the 'elite' and field workers the lowest echelon.
Watch a rather misty-eyed documentary about the plantation system's reliance of slavery and how this affected the 20th century South.


text:
Wells Fargo, Assurant Hit With Force-Placed Action
Lead plaintiff Delbert Kuehner accused Wells Fargo of forcing customers to pay for Assurant policies at inflated prices for the purpose of enriching the bank and insurer, even when borrowers already had other policies. He has requested a jury trial.
"Wells Fargo routinely exceeds the bounds of reasonableness and the spirit, intent and letter of...
To view the full article, register now.
Try Law360 FREE for seven days
Already a subscriber? Click here to login


text:
Refer a Friend Way in the world you will refer a friend to total duct cleaning? It is a very simple answer. Because we will take care about the indoor air quality for your friends family. And you will make money each customer you refer to us you will receive $25.00. Refer duct cleaning to [...]
Archives for the 'Duct Cleaning Sanitizing' Category
Refer a Friend
Saturday, 3 April 2010
HVAC Duct Cleaning Kill & Eliminate
Thursday, 28 January 2010
HVAC Duct Cleaning Kill & Eliminate Dust, Dust mites, Dust mite feces, Fungus, Mold Carpet fibers, Synthetic fibers, Animal dander & hair Bacteria, Viruses, Pollen, Dander, Paint dust Construction waste, Mildew, Spores, Dirt Rodent feces, Insects and their feces, Drywall dust Fabric fibers, Fiberglass fragments, Skin scales Protective Germ and Odors Program HVAC Duct Cleaning
Duct Cleaning Sanitizing
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
After cleaning the entire air duct system we offer to our clients the option of duct sanitizing. We fog the system with an EPA registered disinfectant that is also a deodorizer, bacteriostat and a fungi-stat. This Sanitizer, marketed under the trade name Benefect, is commonly used in hospitals and nursing homes. Benefect contains no perfumes or [...]


text:
Paulette and John have been hosting overseas and local guests for over 13 years and have relocated their B&B from 414 Rapaura Road, Rapaura to 1 Avignon Place, Fairhall where they offer a Bed and Breakfast experience typical of genuine Kiwi Hosts – warm and welcoming.
John spent 30 years as a Professional Fire Firefighter in Auckland after leaving the NZ Police Force and has volunteered time to the Marlborough Search and Rescue. Keen on keeping physically fit, his passion is hunting in New Zealand's great outdoors. He enjoys cycling, gardening and has an interest in NZ Maori history and wine.
Paulette, a former Primary School Teacher for 35 years enjoys cooking, reading, arts and crafts, walking and entertaining.
Proud parents of 3 sons and 2 daughters-in-law and 5 fantastic grandchildren and hopefully soon-to–be owners of a Hungarian Vizsla to accompany John on his hunting excursions.
We look forward to your company!


text:
Messe Düsseldorf India is a 100% subsidiary of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH which is one of the world's largest trade fair corporation with its own exhibition grounds and offers its presence in more than 150 countries around the globe. We organise 50 international trade fairs, among these are 24 World No. 1 events. As one of the world's leading organiser of exhibitions around the globe, we owe much of our business success to our people. Keeping in line with the group's strategic growth plan, we are expanding our operations in India.
Your career is important, so it makes sense to join an organisation that can offer plenty of opportunities for personal development. We believe in growing and delivering excellence. If you can display initiative, drive, creativity and energy on a daily basis, yours is exactly the kind of talent that we look for.
Please fill the form below, we would like to hear from you!
Current Vacancies
- Sales Manager, Mumbai
- Marcom Manager, Delhi
- Front Office and Admin Executive, Delhi


text:
A source told The Mirror, "All eyes were on Harry and Taylor when they turned up," adding, "People were desperate to see how they reacted to one another. It's really awkward, because they have so many friends who get on with both of them. And it was especially awkward as only a few hours earlier, Taylor had been performing a track that is so blatantly about him."
While the two were rumored to have danced together at the party (no pics of that though, are there?), the source dished that they left to go to the London Edition hotel, where all the Victoria's Secret models were staying.
The insider explained that they seemed to have put things behind them, saying, "But they were actually fine. It seemed like they'd buried the hatchet. The drinks were flowing until 3am, when they snuck out of a rear exit five minutes apart to avoid being pictured together."
And then there's this lovely Photoshopped pics making the rounds:
taylor and harry after the vicroria's secret party, i ship them srryyy gys 🙊🔫👌🙏✌💁 pic.twitter.com/xoGAT0YYgI
- Jauregui. (@mmguevarra) December 5, 2014
Want More? Like us on Facebook
Gallery | I'm With the Band: One Direction Girlfriends


text:
In Haines, there are six candidates for two open seats on the Haines Borough Assembly.
The crowded field includes Ryan Cook, Leonard Dubber, Judy Erekson, Diana Lapham, Heather Lende and Tom Morphet. Each seat holds a three-year term. Lapham is the only incumbent running for re-election.
Voters will also decide on two open school board seats. Lisa Schwartz and Sarah Swinton are incumbents running to retain their positions. School board seats also hold three-year terms.
Polls will be open Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at two locations. Voters in Haines Precinct #1 will cast ballots at the Chilkat Center. The Precinct #2 polling station is the Klehini Valley Fire Department on Mosquito Lake Rd.


text:
Wisdom without love is worthless. Love without wisdom is not quite worthless, but it may be fruitless.
When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippian Christians, he told them that he prayed "that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight" (1:9).
You often hear, just love people, and that's all you need.
But that's not all you need.
Sometimes people with the biggest heart are not as effective as they could be because they just move on emotions rather than thinking through what would be best. Continue reading "Love Needs Wisdom"


text:
Event ID/Source search
Keyword searchExample: Windows cannot unload your registry file
EventID.Net Splunk Add-on
Build a great reporting interface using Splunk, one of the leaders in the Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) field, linking the collected Windows events to www.eventid.net. The EventId.Net for Splunk Add-on assumes that Splunk is collecting information from Windows servers and workstation via the Splunk Universal Forwarder.
read more...
Event ID: 7 Source: b57w2k
|Source: b57w2k
|Type: Information
Broadcom NetXtreme 57xx Gigabit Controller: Network controller configured for 10Mb full-duplex link.
|English: Request a translation of the event description in plain English.
The adapter has been manually configured for the selected line speed and duplex settings. This is an informational message only.
|Private comment: Subscribers only. See example of private comment
|Search: Google - Bing - Microsoft - Yahoo - EventID.Net Queue (0) - More links...
Send comments or solutions
- Notify me when updated
|Printer friendly


text:
PICKENS COUNTY — Gov. Nikki Haley is expected to attend a fundraiser for Freshman Rep. Neal Collins on Jan. 5 in Pickens County.
Collins will host the event at the Pickens County Career and Technology Center, 990 Chastain Road in Liberty, from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. Haley is expected to speak to Pickens County residents along with the candidate.
Collins said he is excited to have Haley on the itinerary for voters in the area.
"We will be having a private reception for sponsors and hosts which includes a meet and greet with Gov. Haley, but I wanted the opportunity for other voters to be able to interact with her too," Collins said. "It's not that often Gov. Haley is able to visit Pickens County, so we wanted to have a community event for Pickens County as well. I'm looking forward to our voters being involved."
According to the candidate, there are a range of thoughts when it comes to an event such as this one.
"A fundraiser is probably the least likeable thing an elected official has to do, which is talk about themselves and review the last year," he said. "It's important to review the successes of the last year, or term itself, and the challenges which are still ahead. What I want to do is concentrate on how we can help our community and the belief I have in what we are trying to do for Pickens County and the state of South Carolina."
The event is a fundraiser and while Collins noted there is no required donation to attend, he did say they are appreciated. Food from local businesses will be served.
The Collins campaign has established an event page and details also can be found at www.collinsforsc.com.
Reach D. C. Moody at 864-855-0355.


text:
Accession Number : AD0838884
Title : THE APPLICATION OF SELF-ORGANIZING CONTROL TECHNIQUES TO THE CONTROL OF A TACTICAL AIR-TO-GROUND MISSILE.
Descriptive Note : Master's thesis,
Corporate Author : AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OH SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
Personal Author(s) : Heasley, John E.
Report Date : JUN 1968
Pagination or Media Count : 159
Abstract : The report compares self-organizing control techniques with fixed gain techniques as applied to the control of a tactical air-to-ground missile. Detailed simulations of a missile to which both a fixed gain and a self-organizing control system are applied show that self-organizing control techniques offer several advantages over fixed gain techniques. A tactical air-to-ground missile with a self-organizing controller placed in cascade with the servo-actuator has the advantages of tighter control, faster response time, improved short range launch envelope, and a simpler control system. The self-organizing system also performs well in a noise environment. (Author)
Descriptors : (*AIR TO SURFACE MISSILES, FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS), TACTICAL WEAPONS, MATHEMATICAL MODELS, ANALOG COMPUTERS, TERMINAL GUIDANCE, ADAPTIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS, SERVOMECHANISMS, THESES.
Subject Categories : Air- and Space-launched Guided Missiles
Distribution Statement : APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE


text:
Suntaker #5 – 2013
6″ x 6″ Mosaic on Illustration Board
6″ x 6″ Mosaic on Illustration Board
One of my favorite locations to get away and unplug is Turkey, Texas. Up there my in-laws have a house they keep up and every year we make a trek up to Turkey for the Bob Wills Weekend fun. Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, is the king of country swing. I'm not much of a country music fan, however going up there and hearing the constant live music and jam sessions, it grows on you fast. On the side of the house where we stayed, there's a good amount of cactus going wild and most of which had bloomed these yellow flowers. So I took a few shots and filtered it in my Instagram feed. Since I was prepping for an exhibit, working in miniatures, I figured this is a good subject to work up a mosaic while making a mark on my trip this year. Labels used are Shiner Bock beer labels, Lemon Starburst wrappers, Twinnings Earl Gray Tea wrapppers. Be sure to check out the prints in the store and share this post on Pinterest.
I created this mosaic on the heels of other exhibit work for a silent auction this October benefiting Tarrant County's local AIDS Outreach Center. Last year I participated in the same auction being my first showing in 12 years as I was glad to participate for the sake of others. Adding the fushia/purple hues was born out of frustration to make the image pop some more. The background was a different approach, as I am finding the gray-area between recognizing the brand vs. the color of the label in the subject to be a problem that needs to be tightened up. The image needs to spell out both the retention of the brand while the creation holds its own ground. Anyways, I am satisfied with the results as this opens the door a little more from certain constraints. Labels used are mostly Twinnings tea wrappers, Lemon Starburst wrappers, various blue labels in the background. The purple/fushia colors I added before finishing the piece are from Wonka's Bottle Cap candy wrappers.
If you are using Pinterest, pleasepin it and share with others.
Click to enlarge image
12″ x 18″ on masonite,the mosaic is made mostly with Twinnings tea wrappers, Snapple Peach Iced Tea, imported chocolate bar labels, some gold foil and various green labels in the background. Sunflowers are found all over Texas. They are everywhere. This is the fourth of the four mosaics I made a for an exhibit in Fort Worth last September, 2011. Thinking ahead, I figured flowers would be a good subject matter, knowing candy wrappers and drink labels tend to be bright and colorful. For example, as a husband, it would be smart to buy my wife flowers occasionally. When buying a bouquet, I would choose the flowers with the brighter colors. Sunflowers, in general are popular and in various methods of decor. My wife indeed likes a nice bouquet of sunflowers in the house.
If you are using Pinterest, pleasepin it and share with others.


text:
Jamaican Facts
Q. History of Manchester
The Parish of Manchester is located in west-central Jamaica, in the county of Middlesex. Its capital, Mandeville, is a major business centre, and the only parish capital not located on the coast or on a major river. The Right Excellent Norman Washington Manley, one of Jamaica's seven National Heroes, was born in this parish.
Q. Mandeville
Mandeville is the capital and largest town in the parish of Manchester in the county of Middlesex, Jamaica. In 2005, the town had an estimated population of 50,000, and including the immediate suburbs within a radius of 16 km, the total population is about 72,000. It is located on an inland plateau at an altitude of 628 m (2061 feet) and is 103 km west of Kingston.Mandeville has a town square, parish church and clock tower and many large, elegant early nineteenth-century houses line the winding streets in the town center.
The grassy square is somewhat like a village green and Mandeville has been described as the most English town in Jamaica. In the suburbs of the town many large houses have been built by returning residents from North America and the United Kingdom on an ad hoc basis.
Prominent suburbs and surrounding areas include Ingleside, Battersea, Knockpatrick, Clover, Waltham, Bloomfield, Caledonia Meadows, Brumalia, Newport, Spur Tree, Kingsland, French Park, Swabys Hope, Lincoln, Greenvale and Marshalls Pen. Mandeville is a major commercial centre and is the home of Northern Caribbean University (formerly West Indies College), a Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher learning.
Facts About Jamaica
Q. Geography of Jamaica
Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean, 4,213 square miles, 146 miles from east to west and at her widest 51 miles from St Ann's Bay in the north to Portland Point in the south, lying 90 miles south of Cuba, and 118 miles west of Haiti.
A mountain range runs from east to west. The Blue Mountains, at the eastern end, rise to 7,402 feet, and Birch's Hill at the western end a mere 1809 feet, and on a clear morning the views from Blue Mountain Peak are spectacular.
As the sun comes up you can see Cuba, but since you are over a mile and a quarter above sea level the view is more often than not filled with low lying early morning mist.
Nearly half of the island is over 1000ft and the majority of the island's surface is made up of very thick layers of limestone.
The Blue Mountains are formed by underlying igneous and metamorphic rock protruding through this limestone.
Streams that rise in the mountains sink again when they reach the lower limestone areas, and leaching over the years has resulted in the formation of numerous caves throughout the island, and even underwater caves along the coast.


text:
- English
- français
Journal article
Some stochastic comparisons in series systems with active redundancy
We compare the lifetimes of series systems with different allocations of active redundancy using a variety of stochastic comparisons. It is assumed that only one spare can be allocated to each component of the system. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
- doi:10.1016/j.spl.2010.02.005
- View record in Web of Science
Keywords: Reliability ; Series systems ; Active redundancy ; Stochastic comparisons ; Optimal Allocation ; Components
Record created on 2011-12-16, modified on 2017-05-12


text:
Sorry, I didn't mean to be on the record. My bad.
Sometimes interviews are on the record, sometimes they're not. But what happens when a company's PR rep changes their mind at the end of an interview? Something like this, courtesy of State Impact New Hampshire.
Q: So for my post, can you tell me a little bit about GMO?
A: Sure. It's a $100 billion institutional money management firm.
Q: Do they only invest in land, or do they have a wider portfolio?
A: They invest in a variety of different things.
Q: Great. Thank you. [about to hang up]
A: I'd rather not be quoted on any of this.
Q: Wait…what? You don't want to be quoted declining to comment or describing the company?
A: No.
Q: But you're the PR guy! You know you're on record when you talk to the media. Are you seriously asking me not to quote you declining to comment?
A: We're just declining to comment.
Q: Seriously, what's with the cloak-and-dagger? This is all pretty straight-forward.
A: It's not cloak-and-dagger. We're just declining to comment. Declining to comment is just declining to comment.
Q: I'm going to quote you on what you said.
A: Ok. Let me know if I can help you any more.
Q: (Laughing) I would, but I doubt you could go on the record declining to answer my questions.
A: (Laughing)…Thanks! Click.


text:
Article Side
Online Article Directory!
Eating Healthy Can Save You Money on Health Care
Living a healthy lifestyle is not only beneficial for your body, but it provides numerous cost saving benefits for health care. With a growing concern over the raising debt people accumulate due to health related expenses, the option of living healthy seems like a way to eliminate unnecessary debt.
One of the most promising ways to save money through being healthy is not having to spend a lot of money to find an insurance company that accepts individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Conditions related to living an unhealthy lifestyle, such as heart problems, diabetes, and other medical issues associated with being overweight generally cause individuals who seek medical insurance to be rejected for coverage.
Once you are unable to obtain insurance, all expenses necessary to treat your conditions have to be paid for out of pocket. Paying for medical procedures out of pocket can lead individuals into extreme debt, considering a life-saving open heart bypass surgery costs around twenty thousand dollars, not including the hospitalization, pre-screening process, and all of the necessities relative to medication for treatment before and after.
If an individual who is overweight suffers from sleep apnea and is in need of a CPAP machine, the price can run up to five thousand dollars. Most individuals who suffer from being unhealthy are also stuck with numerous medications to treat their conditions. Medication for diabetes alone can run between one-hundred fifteen to over one-hundred seventy five dollars a month and continue for life.
Aside from the costs directly related to health care, any individual who suffers from a health issue due to being unhealthy must also invest in their diet. Specialty diets for obese individuals, diabetics, or individuals with heart conditions can be extremely costly. Living a healthy lifestyle can eliminate a lot of unwanted health problems. Completing just thirty minutes of cardio exercise on three to five days a week can help strengthen your heart, create better blood flow, and rejuvenate your entire body.
Eating a healthy diet will also eliminate unwanted weight gain and leave you feeling better overall. By eating right, you have the ability to strengthen your immune system, eliminating the need to go to the doctor as often for treatment. Having a stronger immune system will reduce the probability of you having to be hospitalized in the future. The greatest cost saving benefit of being healthy is the ability to choose an insurance company that is right for you.
You do not have to worry about being rejected due to pre-existing conditions or worry about coverage not helping you with issues that may come up in the future. In general, there are numerous steps you can take to maintain a healthy life and save money on health care. Take a little time out of your day to exercise. Not only will you look better, but you will feel better.
Eat a healthy home cooked meal instead of eating out every day. Eating out can be expensive, but if you make your own food at home, you will not have to waste so much money on a quick solution for an unhealthy meal. Not only will the combination of exercising and eating right enable you to save money and feel better, but it will enable you to live longer and maintain inexpensive health care coverage.
Fred Lannister - About Author:
Zirmed.com makes collecting payments easier and more effcient. Making health financial billing easy for you is our goal. For info on medical billing clearinghouse services or hospital revenue cycle management
Article Source:
Related Health Articles
Published by Robert Brown on December 21st 2011 | Health
Published by James Bradson on January 5th 2012 | Health
Published by Meghnath Kumar on February 23rd 2012 | Health
Published by Blossom Dana on December 19th 2011 | Health
Published by Robert Samuels on December 15th 2011 | Health
Published by Frank Windram on February 23rd 2012 | Health
Published by Ashish Pandey on June 19th 2012 | Health
Published by Camili on July 5th 2012 | Health
Published by Jamessms on March 15th 2012 | Health
Published by Tasha Peach on January 30th 2012 | Health
Published by Madison Carter on March 29th 2012 | Health
Published by Andy Decosta on June 20th 2012 | Health
Published by Emily Walters on March 28th 2012 | Health
Published by Morganmoran on June 11th 2012 | Health
Published by Makjonson on February 3rd 2012 | Health
Published by Robert Brown on December 6th 2011 | Health
Published by Ricky Martin on June 22nd 2012 | Health
Published by Ajay on July 23rd 2012 | Health
Published by Carsonmrtn08 on June 30th 2012 | Health
Published by Avena Sowell on February 24th 2012 | Health


text:
We have done the hard work so you don't have to.
Looking for beardspiration? Look no further! It's no secret that we love a beard here at The Grooming Guide, and now we've whittled down our favourite bearded beauties to bring you six of the best. Hell we've even thrown their … Continue
We're absolutely buzzing at Grooming Towers at the moment, and not just because we're on our third double-shot latte of the morning. We've also had the pleasure of compiling our list of six of the very best electric shavers. If … Continue
It's hard to overstate the importance of a good shave cream. If a product is going to act as the middle-man between your razor and your precious face, you're best off looking for the slickest, smoothest and best-smelling middle man … Continue
Calling all owners of facial hair! Whether you're a global nomad or anything but, your aim is the same. Tame those taches guys! Twizzle and twirl those disobedient hairs to ensure a look both smooth and sophisticated. We've tracked down … Continue
To help you tame and care for those beloved beards we've compiled a list of six of the best beard brushes and combs. So whether you're battling with some unruly undergrowth or having a horrendous hirsute moment we've got the … Continue
What better way to embrace the festive season than by decking out your bathroom with our favourite seasonal soaps? Whether it's a bit of spice you're after, or a maybe a more sensuous, satiny bath accompaniment, this carefully assembled selection … Continue
A soft and luxuriant beard is something to be proud of! So if you want to look rugged without feeling rough you'll need to apply decent beard oil and here are our tried and tested favourites. Word of warning greasy chaps … Continue
The correct styling product is every guys secret weapon. Here are six of the best, tried and tested!
A decent lip balm is something that every guy should have in his grooming armory! With a range of different price points and consistencies, now there's no excuse for you to not have kissable lips! Here are our tried and tested … Continue


text:
2:30 - 3:15
LivingWise: Building a Digital Community around Smart, Sustainable and Secure Lifestyles
Tammy Nelson
CMO, American Modern Insurance Group
Jed Usich
VP, Personal Lines Marketing, Hartford Steam Boiler
Session Description
Today's homes are increasingly smart, weather-resistant and green. Insurers need to understand the related risk implications and develop corresponding solutions. The LivingWise initiative features a two-story home inside American Modern's claims training center that showcases these features. Ms. Nelson and Mr. Usich, whose companies partnered on the project, will share how the initiative makes use of digital content to engage with clients and how it demonstrates emerging connected home technologies.ĀĀĀ


text:
VINTAGE Jan KORTHALS Framed Scenic Picture PARIS France
Sold for:
Start Free Trial
or Sign In to see what it's worth.
- Sold Date:
- Source: eBay
For bid— VINTAGE Jan Korthals [ Framed Scenic Picture ] Rue St. Denis Paris France. Here is a really nice Print or Lithograph. I can not tell. Picture is signed Jan Korthals. The picture is a scenic view of Paris, it is some sort of archway with people walking around. The corner States Rue St. Denis PARIS. The Picture measures 13 inches high and 9 ½ inches across. Frames measures 14 1/2 inches high and 11 inches across. The back of picture has a sticker from where they were framed, it States Cohen's POPULAR PRICE PICTURE STORE 1227 G St. N.W. WASHINGTON D.C. The backing has never been removed, just one tear from my darn fingers poking through it when I picked it up. Picture has wire on the back ready for hanging. Picture is in Excellent Condition, there is some residue under the glass from the frame but it can be removed if the frame is taken off. Winning bidder to contact me within 3 days and payment made within 5 days.Buyer pays actual shipping charges plus 60 cents, which can be calculated by Many sellers charge 50-100% more for shipping, not if you purchase from Me.!!! I always combine shipping so take a look at my other auctions!!!!!


text:
Ridley Scott
Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt
5.0what movies are
Aired Monday, October 3, 2016
The Bit Players venture into the dangerous unknown of outer space for this week's podcast on Ridley Scott's 1979 classic sci-fi horror movie, Alien. The guys unpack the film's horror elements as they blend so well with such authentic science fiction, along with the ways that Alien serves as the perfect bridge between classic and modern horror, both drawing upon past conventions and beginning new ones for films to follow. They also break down the ways in which the science fiction allows Scott to examine morality in dire situations, and how he juxtaposes that firmly human trait with the synthetic beings that lurk in the film's shadows. Much is also made of how the Xenomorph managed to pack those pounds on so quickly with such a sparse diet, as well as the ways that Sigourney Weaver's Ripley broke new ground for female protagonists in horror.


text: Recently I started work on a 5 year Royal Society of Edinburgh Personal Research Fellowship, co-funded by Marie Curie Actions. This is based within the UK Centre for Astrobiology at the University of Edinburgh, where I have been working as a postdoc over the summer. Over the next 5 years I will be using volcanic and hydrothermal environments in Iceland to help further the exploration of Mars, through understanding the biogeochemistry of these environments and how to best explore them using robotic technology.


text:
By Diane Turnbull, Leadership Bend Class of 2015
It's that time of year when our thoughts turn to gardening, summer barbecues and just getting out and enjoying our beautiful Central Oregon. This year is no different, right? Well maybe not. Our last Leadership Bend session was all about water, the history of water distribution, water rights, conservation and what happens in drought years. We have all noticed, and no doubt commented on, the lack of moisture this past winter, so this session was not only timely, but important given our love of the outdoors and our water sports in Central Oregon.
Thanks to presenters from the City of Bend, Oregon Water Resources Department, Deschutes Land Trust, Upper Deschutes Watershed Council, Deschutes National Forest and Oregon High Desert Association we received a lot of great information. It turns out it takes many people with a great deal of diverse experience and education to manage our water resources in Central Oregon! One of the best things about this session was learning a few water conservation strategies and who to call with water concerns, like those gushing sprinklers watering the road instead of the lawn.
Below is a list of resources that will help you be a good water use steward and plan a fun and exciting summer:
For information on water conservation strategies: www.waterwisetips.org
For information on native and drought tolerant plants: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/
For information on protecting our land and restoring our rivers: http://www.deschutespartnership.org/
For information on using our forest and desert lands wisely as well as summer activity planning: http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/deschutes/home, http://onda.org/ and http://www.childrensforestco.org/
I recommend checking out the above resources as part of your planning for summer activities from gardening to getting outside with the family. Oh, and if you do come across one of those gushing sprinklers call the city and report it: 541-317-3000.


text:
Order Now!
Bona Swedish Formula Laminate Floor Cleaner (Refill, 42 oz)
Specifically formulated to clean all Laminate (Melamine-type) floors. Quickly wipe out red wine, dried spaghetti sauce, mustard, ketchup and heel scuffs. Unlike all-purpose cleaners, will not dull your floor finish or leave an oily residue. A waterborne, environmentally responsible cleaner.


text:
This seems to be most common of all pronouncements – proclaiming that "Sahih Bukhari' is next to the Quran.
A complete examination of this had clearly indicated that out of the 114 Chapters or Surahs only few Verses of 76 of the Surahs have been recorded in Bukhari – 28 Whole Chapters or Surahs have been totally ignored. 28 Surahs of the Quran are NOT "explained" at all.
The Surah numbers are as follows; 23, 27, 29, 35, 51, 57, 58, 64, 67, 69, 70, 73, 76, 81, 82, 86, 88, 89, 90, 94, 100, 101, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, and 109.
Bukhari explains this away as follows "No hadith were mentioned here."
According to the scholars the hadith is supposed to explain the Quran. But they are conveniently silent on the question why Bukhari ignored 28 Surahs of the Quran!
The scholars insist that the hadith explains the Quran. Yet they have to do away with 28 SURAHS of the Quran because Bukhari did not bother to explain them.
Therefore, the boast by the scholars that those who uphold the QURAN only and do NOT depend on the hadith cannot understand the Quran, falls FLAT on its FACE. It's the poor scholars who are in a sad situation.
28 Surahs are missing and none of the other surahs are explained in full by Bukhari.
The number of Ayats or verses that have been recorded in Bukhari are Less than 12 Percent of the 6236 Ayats. Who is responsible for the balance 88 percent? So the pronouncement that this Bukhari is next to the Quran becomes totally a myth.
How Surahs are labeled in the Collections of Bukhari.
Surah Al Naba (Surah 68) is labelled as Surah "Amma yatasa'alun", this is actually part of the first verse of the Surah..
Narrated By Shaqiq : Abdullah said, "I learnt An-Naza'ir which the Prophet used to recite in pairs in each Rak'a." Then Abdullah got up and Alqama accompanied him to his house, and when Alqama came out, we asked him (about those Suras). He said, "They are twenty Suras that start from the beginning of Al-Mufassal, according to the arrangement done be Ibn Mas'ud, and end with the Suras starting with Ha Mim, e.g. Ha Mim (the Smoke). and "About what they question one another?" (78.1)
Sahih al-Bukhari 4996
Vol. 6, Book 61, Hadith 518
Surah Al Baiyina (Surah 98) is labelled as Surah "Lam Yakun".
Narrated By Anas bin Malik : The Prophet said to Ubai, "Allah has ordered me to recite to you: 'Those who disbelieve (Surat-al-Bayina 98).' " Ubai said, "Has He mentioned my name?" The Prophet said, "Yes." On hearing this, Ubai started weeping.
Sahih al-Bukhari 3809
Vol. 5, Book 58, Hadith 154
Some SURAHS have been given two names. Surah Al Insan (Surah 76) is labeled – Surah "Hal-Ata-'Alal Iinsani" or Surah "Dahr".
Narrated byAbu Huraira : The Prophet used to recite the following in the Fajr prayer of Friday, "Alif, Lam, Mim, Tanzil" (Surat-as-Sajda #32) and "Hal-ata-ala-l-Insani" (i.e. Surah-Ad-Dahr #76).
Sahih al-Bukhari 891
Vol. 2, Book 13, Hadith 16
Narrated byJabir bin Abdullah Al Ansari : Once a man was driving two Nadihas (camels used for agricultural purposes) and night had fallen. He found Mu'adh praying so he made his camel kneel and joined Mu'adh in the prayer. The latter recited Surat "Al-Baqara"or Surat "An-Nisa", (so) the man left the prayer and went away. When he came to know that Mu'adh had criticized him, he went to the Prophet, and complained against Mu'adh. The Prophet said thrice, "O Mu'adh ! Are you putting the people to trial? It would have been better if you had recited "Sabbih Isma Rabbika-l-a-la (87), Wash-Shamsi wadu-haha (91), or Wal-laili Idha yaghsha (92), for the old, the weak and the needy pray behind you." Jabir said that Mu'adh recited Sura Al-Baqara in the 'Isha' prayer.
Sahih al-Bukhari 705
Vol. 1, Book 11, Hadith 673
Here Surah Baqarah is mentioned but Surah A'ulaa is stated as "Sabbih Isma Rabbika-l-a-la (87) Surah Ash-Shams is stated as Wash-Shamsi wadu-haha (91) and Surah Al-Layl is quoted as Wal-laili Idha yaghsha (92)
There are so many to state, but I feel that this is sufficient for the reader to get an inkling of what is happening in "Sahih Bukhari".
We see that Bukhari Hadiths have not even named the Surahs as named by the Prophet Muhammad.


text:
While researching conversion therapy, I met Jallen Rix, sexologist and author of Ex-Gay No Way.
Dr. Rix has conducted a survey of conversion therapy survivors. The answers to the questions posed in this survey are shocking and heartbreaking.
This blog post is about answers to the question:
What significant experience motivated you to quit the ex-gay movement?
Thank you, Dr. Rix, for conducting this survey and posting the results online! May this result in positive change!
The Survey of Conversion Therapy Survivors
The survey asked many questions, including this one: "What significant experience motivated you to quit the ex-gay movement?"
The survey is open to ongoing contributions, but at the time this blog post was written, 417 people had participated in the survey, and 393 people had answered this question.
Ex-Gay Movement Survivor Answers
When asked why they stopped conversion therapy, people answered:
- 302 people said it did not make them straight
- 202 answered that they were exhausted
- 196 said they became too depressed to continue
- 175 said they realized they could no longer hate themselves any longer (obviously self loathing related to sexual orientation is a primary motivator for engaging in conversion therapy)
- 85 reported having nervous breakdowns (due to the therapy)
- 99 said they gave up on religion (and most conversion therapy is motivated by religious pressure or a desire to "please God" by repenting of sexual attraction to those of the same sex)
- 125 met LBGT Christians (Yay!)
- 149 said they realized the LBGT community is not as "evil" as they had been led to believe
- 201 answered that they realized God loved them regardless of their sexuality
Click here to read all the answers to this question on the conversion therapy survivor survey conducted by Dr. Jallen Rix and colleagues, including Peterson Toscano, ex-gay movement survivor and talented actor.
My Favorite Answer
Of course, some of these answers tear me up inside. My favorite answer, though, is the last one listed here – that 201 people realized God loved them regardless of their sexual orientation.
Why This Conversion Therapy Survey Matters to Me
I was once part of a radical religious organization. I am no longer (at this time) religious (although I am loosely spiritual.) However, I firmly believe that any God/dess/Creator of the universe worth worshiping would love each and every one of us the way we are – without requiring us to change.
I have three children, and I love each of them as he or she is. I don't expect them to change or to earn my love. I imagine that God/dess/Divine Creator must be far more capable of loving his or her creation than I am, fallible human that I am.
It is my hope that I can spread this love and acceptance as far as it will go.


text:
Social media advertising is the process of advertising through social media sites such as like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. By utilizing the social element of the internet, social media advertising is able to attach and interact on a much more tailored and dynamic level than traditional advertising.
A social media advertising and marketing strategy can be as straightforward as having a company blog, a Twitter account, or attaching "Like This" and "Tweet This" tags throughout of posts. It can also be as complicated as having a full campaign that encompasses blog sites, Twitter, social networking and viral video clips with YouTube.
Social media Advertising and Social News:
The simplest kind of social media advertising is to tag posts and blog entries for easy entry and voting on social media sites like Digg. If you've ever stumbled upon a Digg vote counter or a Share This widget at the end of a write-up, you've seen this type of social media advertising at work.
This sort of advertising can frequently be automated, so it is easy to implement. It can also be extremely effective for media firms, and could lead more traffic to a company's blog.
Social media Advertising and Blogs:
In lots of aspects, blogs could work as an expansion of typical media. Much as review copies might be sent to typical media outlets like newspapers and magazines, they can also be sent to well-liked blogs on the topic.
Blog sites also supply the chance to assemble 'virtual tours'. As an example, numerous authors have actually gravitated to online book tours, which allows them to reach their fans without the travel costs. These online book tours could consist of writer interviews and Q&A sessions and also publication reviews and book giveaways.
Social media site Marketing and Social Networking:
It has become progressively more important to have a presence on social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter. Along with these well-liked social networks, there are additionally numerous specialized social networks that might be the best location to setup camp for certain products.
Social networks not just provide the marketer an area to get the word out, they also provide them a place to communicate with consumers and enable clients to communicate with each other. This can be a great starting point for the advertising to go viral and grab a grassroots effort.
Social networking site Marketing and Twitter:
Twitter has actually grown rapidly over the past few hours and is an excellent place for social media marketing. Twitter has expanded very far from its microblogging roots and is now only second to Facebook for marketers when it comes to social media marketing. While the key objective is to get the word out, it is equally crucial to add a personal touch rather than depending on RSS feeds to supply stagnant press releases or simply duplicate the company blog site. Additionally, growing the number of fans on Twitter, can be a particularly effective way of communicating with customers and fans.
Social networking site Marketing and YouTube:
Some of the most efficient social media marketing approaches focus around YouTube and the viral video. While often more time-consuming and costly, YouTube can effortlessly come to be the centrepiece of a bigger social media campaign.
As a result of its social nature, YouTube is a terrific way to interact with clients and get them involved with the marketing campaign as well as the product/service. An good example of social media marketing on YouTube done well was Microsoft's responsive to the "I'm a Mac" commercials.
Rather than face Apple head on through commercials, Microsoft participated in a viral "I'm a PC" advertising campaign that centred around clients uploading their own "I'm a PC" video responses. This type of consumer interaction is at the core of what social media marketing is all about and is the key to building an efficient approach.
Contact Jef Media today and discuss the possibility of getting a social media strategy that fits your companies requirements.
Talk: +35391 396441
Type: email@example.com
View: www.jefmedia.ie
Visit: Unit 4, Galway Retail Park


text:
When I started traveling, backpacking was always the way I went. I love the freedom it gives you and I feel it helps immerse you even more into the experience of a place. I don't exactly backpack travel as much as I used to since I stay longer in cities now, but it's still big part of my traveling. Here's 20 things I've learned from my experiences backpacking around the world (with a camera):
1. Bring your expensive camera
You might be worried about something happening to it, but why do you have it if you're not going to use it when you'll want it the most?
2. Pack light
I keep my camera gear in a messenger bag and the rest of my stuff in a carry-on sized backpack. I make sure not to pack it full too, leaving some room for a souvenir or two that I might want to bring back. Bring only what you are certain you will NEED.
3. Learn the Metro
In most bigger cities, the subway will be your quickest value for transportation. Sometimes they can be confusing at first so learning the colored map lines or downloading the metro app can be a huge time and frustration saver.
4. Buy an extra battery or two
Having your camera run out of juice is the worst. I always keep a fully charged back-up in my pocket.
5. Hostels are great, but do your research
Hostels are a great way to backpack on a budget and meet people. Hostels are not all the same, though. Luckily, with websites like Hostelworld.com and Hostelbookers.com, you can research them before staying. These sites are full of reviews from people who stayed there so you get a good idea of what type of Hostel you're getting into. They also tell you important things like if the hostel has secure lockers, which is big when traveling with camera gear.
6. Going alone doesn't equate to being lonely
Many people don't understand why anyone would backpack alone, but it can be the best of both worlds. You have complete control and freedom of what you want to do. At the same time, you can meet people and make friends everywhere you go.
I've done both, solo and with others. When I backpacked around Europe solo, I'd do whatever I wanted during the day and then at night I'd meet up with people and go out. It was great. I didn't have to wait for anyone to get out of bed and get ready, no debating what to do or where to go, and best of all, I could do as much street shooting as I wanted.
7. You don't need to see every site
It takes time to see all the sites in every city. Trains, buses, taxis, walking and the time it takes to figure out where they even are. You want to spend more time enjoying what you see than looking for the next thing to see.
8. Don't spend too much time googling safety concerns
Searching online for articles on a city's safety is like looking up cold symptoms on WebMD. You're probably going to die. In reality, this obviously isn't the case. Looking up camera safety is even worse. You'd never bring your camera anywhere if you went by what you find online.
Bad things happen everywhere and the internet will find every single one of them. Most places are relatively safe, though. So take necessary precaution, but don't worry too much.
That being said…
9. Be aware of your surroundings
Be smart. Observe your surroundings and trust your instincts. Don't go down a dark alley at night. If a suspicious person seems to be following you, get somewhere safer.
Now I don't always follow this completely. I like to walk away from the tourist areas because I usually find better photos there. Sometimes this probably isn't the safest, but I still pay close attention to my surroundings and anything suspicious.
10. Walk when you can
I love walking everywhere. I feel it's the best way to really get to know a place. It also provides plenty of surprises and things you never would have seen. For a photographer, this makes for the best photos too.
11. Buy a comfortable camera strap
Carrying a camera all day will make your neck and shoulders sore without a decent strap, especially after a few days. Switching the strap can make a huge difference. Personally, I use the Custom SLR Glide Strap and the Lance Camera Straps.
12. Don't bring travel books
You can find all you need online now. If you enjoy planning for a trip with a guide-book, then use it to plan and leave it at home. I knew better, but still had to learn the hard way on my first backpacking trip around Europe. I brought multiple guide books for the different countries, but barely used them. Books are big, heavy, and an unnecessary waste of space when backpacking.
13. You remember the good times and forget the bad
Maybe you sleep past your alarm, find out the museum is closed, miss your train, or forget your phone charger. Traveling in a foreign place won't always be easy, things will go wrong and there are times you'll get frustrated. It probably won't matter later, though, so try to realize that at the time.
I got stuck in the Frankfurt train station for 15 hours on the way from Prague to Amsterdam. Missing a whole day of sunshine in Amsterdam, while laying on a bench through the night, was beyond frustrating at the time. Now it's just funny.
14. Eat a solid breakfast
When traveling in a foreign country, it's not always easy to find something to eat. So make sure you start off the day full so you won't be wasting the day looking for food.
14. Bring locks
Traveling with camera gear, you want to make sure it's as safe as possible. So I bring mini locks for my bag and a bigger one for securing it in my place while I'm gone.
15. Slow down, Enjoy more
You don't need to rush everything just so you can fit in more cities. More might sound better, but when it comes to traveling less can be more. Focus on enjoying the place you're at.
16. Take plenty of memory cards
Even though I bring a portable hard drive, I don't erase any of my memory cards until I'm home and have them all safely uploaded to my computer and back-up hard drive. It's just an extra precaution in case something happens to the hard drive. It also means I usually go through a lot of cards. Memory cards can be crazy expensive to buy when traveling so you can save a lot of money by buying plenty beforehand.
17. Make friends
Meeting people, both locals and fellow travelers, and making connections is what you remember the most.
18. Check out apartment rentals
Sometimes you can find the best values by renting an apartment off of sites like bnb and craigslist. This is especially true during big events or festivals. When I was in Rio for Carnival, the prices raised sky high and many places had been reserved months in advance. So I rented an apartment for the week and had my own place and kitchen in Ipanema Beach a block from the most expensive hotel in Rio for $40 a night.
19. There's an endless amount of places you'll want to go
Travel is addictive. As soon as you come back from one dream destination you'll want to plan the next one. My favorite place will probably always be the next one I'm traveling to.
20. Pretty cameras are for shelves
If you travel with your camera and actually use it, it will show after time. A pretty camera is an unused camera. I prefer to use mine.
So what are some things you've learned from backpacking? Tell me about it in the comments below!


text:
Yet again Coursera is coming up with its online course, "Ocean Solutions" in association with the University of Western Australia.
This online course is to have a glance at how intelligent and innovative use of the ocean can sustainably deliver the essential resources required to meet some of the great challenges faced by humanity.
World's population is swelling day by day and till now it has reached to seven billion. It is expected that by 2050 the population will bulge up to nine billion.
This growing population is creating strain on food, water and energy supplies, threatening biodiversity and contributing to global climate change. This course will help in providing the knowledge of finding the means to meet these challenges while retaining a healthy and sustainable environment. It is believed that the oceans hold the key to overcome these challenges.
In this 8-weeks course will focus on:
-The significant challenges face humanity now and in the future.
-Identifying the bottle-necks behind these challenges.
-How ocean-based solutions will help to meet the growing demands for resources.
-How ocean-based solutions can be used in climate change mitigation strategies.
-The historical impact of ocean governance on implementing effective solutions.
-The impacts of public perception and attitudes in implementing ocean solution strategies and consider the practicality of successfully deploying them.
Course Timeline
'Ocean Solutions', this online course will start from May 26, 2014.
Course Period
This course will run for 8 weeks and estimated effort of 4-8 hours/week is required from each student.
Online Course Provider
Coursera and the University of Western Australia
Online Platform
Eligibility Requirements
This course will be best for university students, graduates of environmental sciences and science teachers. However the concepts will be introduced in an easy manner so it will be reachable for everyone having keen interest in environment and sustainability.
Course Syllabus
The following modules will be covered during the first 6 weeks of the course
Module 1: Problem Statement
Module 2: The Challenge
Module 3: Ocean Solutions
Module 4: Food from the Ocean
Module 5: Water from the Ocean
Module 6: Energy
Module 7: Marine Bioresources
Module 8: Climate Change Mitigation
Module 9: Governance of Ocean Solutions
Module 10: Successfully Deploying Ocean Solutions
Module 11: Prospects
The final 2 weeks of the course will involve a peer assessment activity.
Verified Certificate
Applicants who will successfully complete this class will receive a statement of accomplishment signed by the instructor.
Online Course Staff
Carlos M. Duarte
He is the director of the Oceans Institute at The University of Western Australia. He is also the research lecturer with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) at the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies (IMEDEA) in Mallorca, Spain. The focal point of his research is to understand the effects of global change in aquatic ecosystems, both marine and freshwater.
You can apply for the course by following this link.


text:
'Twixt Land & Sea .. A smile of Fortune, The Secret Sharer, Freya of the Seven Isles
first edition viii, 264 pp. 8vo
1912 · London
by Conrad, Joseph
London: J.M. Dent, 1912. First edition. viii, 264 pp. 8vo. Green cloth, gilt lettered spine creased, date stamp on rear pastedown. First edition. viii, 264 pp. 8vo. An error was made when this book was bound, substituting the word "secert" for "seven." This mistake was noticed as the book was being issued, and the majority of the copies were retrieved and corrected by erasing the offending word and restamping as here. Cagle A16(1) binding b; Not in Keating but cf 98-9 for other bindings; Smith 17 binding 2; Wise 21 (Inventory #: 303686)


text:
Video Games Protected By 1st Amendment, EA Tells 3rd Circ.
The New Jersey federal court's September ruling granting EA summary judgment in Ryan Hart's right of publicity suit should be affirmed, according to EA, which added that the decision put video games in the same category as other works —...
To view the full article, register now.
Try Law360 FREE for seven days
Already a subscriber? Click here to login


text:
There has been a lot of speculation about a brokered convention. Paul Blest at Salon says it will never happen; I think he's wrong. It may, it may not, but if the Republican establishment is serious about saving the party from oblivion, it's a very real alternative. And also, very possibly the best chance at rescuing the party from the destruction it's headed towards.
Blest's argument seems to pivot around the fact that it would split the party–which it would. Trump and Carson have both said they would flee the party in such a case, and both would take a substantial portion of their voter base with them. I say good riddance. While I am not looking to shore up the Republican party, objectively this exodus would be good for it. The Republican Party has been losing members for a good while now, largely because of the people who support guys like Trump and Carson. Losing these voters would represent an immediate, painful hit for the party but would also like be removing a tumor. It would give the party the opportunity to recruit, expand its base, and grow. Exorcising the xenophobic, ultra-religious bigots would make it possible to actually do the minority outreach they have to date merely been able to only pay lip service to.
Yes, they will lose the 2016 election, but I submit they have lost it already. They don't have a candidate who can win it. If Trump takes the primary and they don't execute a brokered convention "to save the party," they will break the party anyways. Same for Ted Cruz–though he is not threatening to flee the party. The bottom line is, the voters Trump and Carson are threatening to pull from the Republican party are the ones the party needs to get rid of anyways, if it wants to remain viable. Chasing these two guys and their minions out would hurt in the short term, but enable the party a chance to actually achieve the recruiting goals it's ostensibly had for over a decade now.
Nobody is leaving the Republican party because it's "too liberal." Nobody. I know Republicans who have left the party, and it is because they are conservative. Trump and Carson supporters aren't conservatives, they are radical extremists. Losing them will certainly cost the Republicans the 2016 election, but that's lost if any of them win the nomination anyway. It's time for the Republican party to take a long term approach, write this year off, and start building a broad, diverse coalition for 2020. They have a real chance at minority outreach if they can. That, or start packing up all the files and equipment in boxes, because if they throw up Trump or Carson in the general election, the party is probably finished.


text:
OPETH members involved in auto crashOctober 16th, 2009
Guitarist/vocalist Mikael Åkerfeldt of Swedish progressive metallers OPETH has issued the following update:
"Myself, Axe [OPETH drummer Martin Axenrot], Fredrik [Åkesson; OPETH guitarist] and our soundman, Pontus Norgren, decided to fly home to our families for a few days as the option would have been three days off in Brussels.
"Now I hear that our bus apparently crashed into this other car making a unexpected U-turn in the middle of the highway. [OPETH bassist Martin] Mendez and [OPETH keyboardist] Per [Wiberg] were on the bus together with the rest of our crew but nobody got hurt. They are, however, shocked and very shaken, of course. The driver in the other car was critically injured. I've not heard back from anyone yet regarding his progress but apparently it's not looking very good. Hoping for the best, however.
"I don't know where or when this happened but I know the bus was heading from Dublin to Brussels.
"I'll let you know more as soon as I get some information, but as for now everyone in the band are safe and same with our crew. As far as I know, the only injured person was the driver of the other car, which obviously is horrible enough!
"To be honest, I rarely think about things, accidents like this, but fuck, man, it happens! My mind's all over the place and right now I don't want to go back out. But… the show in Brussels on the 17th and the remaining part of the [Progressive Nation] tour [with DREAM THEATER, BIGELF and UNEXPECT] will go ahead as planned."
Comments are closed.


text:
Mandatory use of language proficiency tests for PR to Quebec, Canada Immigration.
DELF Training is provided by Frehindi Foundation in association with French Embassy in quickest possible time.Read More
Few Seats available for Instructor lead one to one DELF A1 program NOVEMBER 2011
- 1 to1 Skype tutor@600/- per/hr for B1 & Above
- Alliance Francaise
- Dwarka Center of Frehindi
- French langauge jobs
- Student's Corner
Dear All, Few seats are left for the DELF A1 online (one to one Instructor lead program) especially designed for …Read More
Children Workshop by Le Frehindi at Vandana International School
Le Frehindi concluded their 30th Children Workshop at Vandana International School for Vth Class Students today. The final event was …Read More


text:
Perfect for social media campaigns and blogs. Web photos (up to .5 MP). 1 Seat.
Learn More
Build a high res library or promote your brand. Up to Large (2.5-4.5 MP). 5 Seats.
Learn More
Get more high res photos and more. Up to Large (2.5-4.5 MP). 25 Seats.
Learn More
white, water, body, night, house, painted, dark, building, housing, dwelling
white painted house near body of water during night


text:
Family: We have lost a great man
Nelson Mandela's family said they have "lost a great man, a son of the soil" in their first statement since his death.
A spokesman for the Mandela family read the statement to journalists in Johannesburg.
The statement said: "The pillar of the royal Mandela family is no more with us physically, but his spirit is still with us.
"We have lost a great man, a son of the soil whose greatness in our family was in the simplicity of his nature in our midst - a caring family leader who made time for all and on that score we will miss him dearly."
Mr Mandela died on Thursday at the age of 95.


text:
Nectar will prompt bees to buzz off
A bee will only head back to its nest once it is 'full' — otherwise it will continue to forage for more nectar
Sir, It would appear that the most likely reason bees cannot find their way out of Rob Evans's conservatory is that they have not filled their crops with nectar so are still foraging for more (letters, Sept 24 and 22).
If they are "full" then they are likely to take the shortest route back to their nest or hive back through the open doors by which they entered. If they are not full, they will know there is no point in going back the way they went in. You either need more nectar-producing flowers or high-level openings away from the doors to allow the bees to continue their foraging.
Dr John Crocker
Paulton, Bristol


text:
If you're confused about essential oils and just don't know where to start, then I recommend you start somewhere. The more you use essential oils, the more you will gain experience and knowledge. Using a good desk reference tools helps tremendously, but if you don't have any oils in your hands, you can't use them.
If you have Young Living oils already, do you have the Everyday Oils Kit? If you only have one or two oils, you will be frustrated and confused and possibly think that oils don't work. Even if someone lives alone, the 10 everyday oils are essential to have in your medicine cabinet. If someone has a family, then these oils will probably be used every day like they are in our house.
Benefits to Membership:
- Purchase oils at 24% off
- Eligible to earn free oils with purchase each month
- Eligible to take advantage of Essential Rewards – Young Living's rebate program. You earn 10-20% of your purchase in free products each month.
- Access to Scan Days in Greenwich – Zyto scan machine is a great tool we use to help people know how to get their bodies back in balance with oils (see link down the side of this page). It's a 5 minute hand scan that is very accurate!
- Access to private Facebook group where you can ask questions and see questions and answers to lots of oils questions posted.
- Free Quick Reference Guide to Using Essential Oils ($25 value) with Premium Kit purchase.
I thought I would create a post on how to get these 10 Everyday Oils along with the oil blend Stress Away which everyone can use. Maybe you have been to the website and just don't really know what to get and where to start, so here you go:
Young Living Website Link – Go Here
You will see this website (no need to be confused) :
The sponsor and enroller info should be filled in for you, so you don't have to worry about that part.
Then you add your personal information which should be fairly easy:
Here is where you enter your email address and website access information. The username and password guidelines are to the right of each of those. Just pick a username and password you will remember and be sure to write it down! When you go to www.youngliving.org to place another order in the future, you will need these!
The 4 digit pin # is needed only for when you call the company. They will ask for this before they will talk about your account with you. If you decide to call the company for a future order, you'll need this pin # on the phone with the rep.
Now for the fun part! You get to pick your kit. The 10 everyday oils that I recommend are in the Premium Starter Kit. Now the premium kit also includes a free diffuser! This was not available when I enrollled, so you are very fortunate to have this option. The Basic Starter Kit only has a bottle of Stress Away and some sample oils with a starter book. The Premium Starter Kit is really the best value, but it's up to you. You get 11 oils, samples, starter book, and home diffuser! Plus with a Premium Starter Kit you also get a free Quick Reference Guide to Using Essential Oils book from me ($25 value).
This is the area where you can choose an Essential Rewards Kit that will come every month. This is part of Young Living's rebate program although you can choose any products you want and can change it at any time up to your order date. This program also has reduced shipping. Oh, how I hate to pay shipping costs! Reduced shipping and a rebate are a great way to save on oils. If you don't want to join this program right now, just click on "No Thank You" and move on.
Then you can add your credit card information. I always choose the "Ship Together and Maximize Discounts" option.
You're almost done! Just check the box to agree to the Distributor Agreement. You'll be able to confirm your order and I think there are options for shipping. I always choose the 3-5 day shipping since it takes a whole week to get to my house from Utah, but the regular shipping is good too. Once you confirm, you will receive an email.
Let me know if you have any questions or problems by contacting me on my Contact Page. Welcome to Young Living and a great team!
Having this selection of oils in your hands will help you no longer be confused about essential oils. You will have the oils you need for almost any ailment that will come your way. You have the support of people who know what they are doing and are willing to answer all your questions. I've been using these oils for over a year and I still learn new things almost every day. When you start using oils, you will find out how powerful pure oils are and that you don't have to be confused anymore. The important step is to get oils and start applying them on your skin and diffusing them!


text:
AT&T is soon coming up with an extra security for the iPhone users. AT&T will provide new insurance policy to the owners of iPhone to protect their precious gadgets. This insurance policy, which is to start on July 17, will cover the mobile against loss or theft, damage caused due to physical accidents, mechanical or electrical failure even after the warranty period. This plan is already covering other mobile devices and handsets.
Details of the Plan
Getting an insurance policy from AT&T will cost the users a very affordable $ 4.99 per month per mobile phone; however an additional charge of $50 or $125 will be deducted on every claim depending on the model of the handset. AT&T guarantees to replace the phone within 1 or 2 business days with a new or remanufactured handset. However the company will limit the number of claims to 2 within a year. Customers will also be provided an option to cancel the policy at any point of time.
Other Insurance Offers
AT&T also provides other similar insurance options through Asurion. Apart from that, Verizon Wireless is also offering insurance cover for iPhone and other devices. Due to the increasing use of iPhone and consequently increased safety threats, buying an iPhone insurance cover from AT&T will be a very good option for the customers.


text:
Can you "fat shame" a baby?
This week I read a piece by a former coworker of mine about how she is tired of people who "fat shame" her eight-month-old by remarking on her rolls and overall chubbiness. The response to her story was mixed, with some praising her for speaking out and others saying that it was her own issues with weight that were going to give her daughter a complex, not the comments of strangers.
I understand where the author was coming from. She had weight problems in the past that made her sensitive to "baby fat" comments, and she wants people to understand how such remarks make others feel. Likewise, I had infertility issues in the past that made me sensitive to comments about having more children. People who responded to my piece about it told me to chill out, that it wasn't fair to expect everyone to be sensitive to my particular problem. An advocate for infertility awareness, I argued that yes, I do expect people to be more sensitive to it.
But in my case, the sensitivity I was arguing for was solely for my own benefit, not my child's. He'll hopefully never have to deal with infertility, and if he does, it won't be when he's a child (duh); although the attitudes he perceives about infertility as he grows up might affect how he comes to terms with it should it ever happen to him. But in the case of weight, it's a little different. I have heard of girls in elementary school already worrying about how fat they are or how they need to diet. This hyper-awareness of weight in young girls is a problem we need to face.
At the same time, I believe that the most important factor in how a girl develops self-esteem and positive body image is her mother's own views and attitudes. So I also agree with the commenters who argued that the author of the piece was putting her own issues with weight on her daughter by taking to heart comments about her roly poly-ness, and that that would be more likely than anything to affect her daughter's views on her body.
I'm coming at this without a history of weight issues. I was always curvy but still thin growing up, through college and into my twenties. I used to be able to eat whatever I wanted and not gain weight (yes, you can hate me for that). My mother and sister were also naturally thin, so dieting was not ever a thing in our house. We ate healthy and my parents prepared homemade, mostly Mediterranean-style dinners. We were only allowed to have "sweet cereal," like Lucky Charms or Cap'n Crunch (mmm), once a week. My parents didn't keep junk food like chips in the house; although there were definitely cookies and ice cream to be had. But thanks for the most part to good genes, we never got fat.
Then I got older, had fertility issues and had a baby. I am about 11 or 12 pounds heavier than I was at our wedding, and probably more than 15 over my high school weight. That might not sound like a whole lot, but I'm only 5″1′. Plus, my stomach has taken to bulging out thanks to a slight case of diastasis recti, which a PT friend of mine diagnosed me with. So I am definitely wider than I used to be. Foggy Daddy gets really annoyed when I make him help me pick out clothes to wear, because it usually ends with me in a rage screaming, "Nothing fits me anymore!" But he's no help with my losing weight — he looooves food, especially food that's not necessarily good for you, and seems to find me attractive no matter what I weigh. Annoying, isn't it? Just kidding. Of course I'm happy that he accepts me no matter what; I wouldn't want my husband critiquing my weight. But a little encouragement or mutual agreement to eat healthier would be great.
My mother and sister are still thin. Actually, everyone on my mother's side of the family is incredibly trim and in shape, including my 93-year-old grandfather, who still walks five miles on the beach in Florida every day. True story. But lucky me, I got my body type from my father's side of the family, whose women tend to grow round as they age.
But my weight issues are not so deeply engrained that I worry about passing along my hangups to a daughter, should I have one. Although, I would have to curb my habit of joking about my weight gain (favorite weight-related movie quotes that I like to pull out when I'm feeling large: "I will always be just a little bit fat" from Bridget Jones and "Ooooh would we call her chubby?" from Love Actually). But in general, I think a parent with deep-seated issues with weight is much more likely to inadvertently teach their children that weight matters.
I do believe being "healthy" is key – obesity is a real problem, and it's a fine line we walk between encouraging kids to be healthy and accepting them no matter what they look like. In terms of what's healthy on a baby, though, fat is good. A breastfed baby (and I'm not sure if the baby in the piece I referred to was) cannot be overfed because they stop eating when they are full. It's hard to get milk out of a breast, so you can't force a baby to nurse the way you can, conceivably, have them drink more from a bottle than they need. When they start eating solids, it's encouraged to give babies healthy fats like avocado because it helps with brain development. We give them whole milk. We are even told by doctors to load olive oil on the food of some slow-to-gain babies (like mine).
Although the author makes reference to how this is not the middle ages, when people had to stock up on food because no one had enough to eat, slow weight gain in babies is a real problem even today – one that the author is not sensitive to in her quest to make us sensitive to other issues. And I am very familiar with it, because LM was born tiny at 5 pounds 10 ounces. He was in the NICU for low blood sugar. We had major breastfeeding problems. His weight gain was always a source of anxiety for me – I even bought a scale and had to do "weighted feeds" to make sure he was taking in enough. So when he finally got the hang of nursing and grew rolls, I was ecstatic. I was proud of his chunky monkey legs. I loved when people commented on his baby fat. It was evidence that nursing was successful and that I was feeding my child. It did not even occur to me to think it was a case of "fat shame."
I believe there is a biological imperative for noticing, commenting on and loving chunky baby legs – because, in general, it is a sign of a healthy child and the perpetuation of the species. Even though it's not the middle ages, this is not always an easy thing to achieve. As long as it's not presented in a negative way (like the "I hate my thighs" onesie), I'm OK with remarks on baby fat.
What do you think: Is remarking on baby rolls "fat shaming"?
Why I hate pumping
Because of MIT's recent contest to Make the Breast Pump Not Suck, there's been a lot of talk lately about how the breast pump does, in fact, suck. I think it's great that we are finally discussing ways to make it better. But I also think that no matter what, pumps are going to suck. Because no one wants to be hooked up to a mechanical device, especially when it replaces cuddle time with your baby.
The first time I used a breast pump was only a couple of days after I had my son. He was tiny and couldn't latch on, and his blood sugar was dropping. The poor kid was shaking like a leaf, and he needed nutrition badly. So they hauled in the hospital-grade pump in the hopes that he would take breast milk from a bottle. I wasn't prepared (why would I be? I didn't anticipate having problems breastfeeding, because no one tells you you might), so without a pumping bra I literally had to sit there holding these two cone-shaped flanges over my boobs for 20 or so minutes every two hours. And I admit that I hated seeing my husband feeding our baby with a bottle. I was supposed to be the one feeding him, and I was not expecting that I wouldn't be able to.
The nurses were amazed when I pumped 10 ml of colostrum. I had to keep pumping every two to three hours to get my supply up. One embarrassing moment happened while I was pumping and there was a knock at my hospital door. Without thinking, my husband said, "Come in," and an old man (the hospital chaplain, perhaps?) opened the door, took one look at me and quickly closed it again. He never returned.
Eventually LM (my nickname for my son, short for Little Man) had to be moved to the NICU. There was a pumping room there, or I could pump in LM's room when his roommate's mom was not using the device (hospital pumps are "closed systems," meaning multiple people can use the same pump without contamination). I feared I was still waiting for my milk to come in, because I thought I should be producing more. The lactation consultants looked at me with concern. But they didn't realize that perhaps my body just didn't respond as well to a machine as it would have to my baby.
It was in the NICU that I met another mom who told me about the wonders of a pumping bra. They're a pain to put on – basically a bra that has cut-outs where the nipples are to put the flanges through. You can also make one yourself with an old sports bra (just cut holes for your nipples). This mom told me that without having to hold the stupid flanges, you can do this, as she motioned typing on her smartphone. And she was right – it was a lifesaver, or more accurately, a sanity saver.
After four days LM was sent home, but I wasn't done with that monstrosity of a pump. Because hospital pumps are the strongest out there, I rented one. But even though the pumping bra made it hands-free, I still couldn't get up and walk around. I was chained to the thing. And I was still trying to figure out how to get the baby to nurse directly from my boobs. So I'd try breastfeeding him, then when that wasn't successful I would bottle feed him, then pump for the next session. My supply did seem to slowly be increasing, and soon I was able to use solely breastmilk, instead of supplementing him with formula. The supply of milk in the fridge hovered on just having enough, but there was not much I could really do to increase my output. I tried nursing teas, herbs, whatever I heard might work.
I was going crazy with it all, because I felt like I was spending my whole day feeding this child or preparing for him to feed. I found out you can store pump parts in the refrigerator for up to eight hours without having to wash them, so that helped a little. But LM was still not latching. I was about to give up on nursing, when finally, one day LM figured out how to do it.
When his weight got on track, I got the OK from the doctor to ditch the pump. I started EBF (exclusively breastfeeding) and enjoyed some pump-free time, but a couple of months later in preparation for going back to work I thought I should start building a "freezer stash." This time, I used the pump I had purchased.
Insurance is supposed to cover a breast pump; but my insurance was not clear on how that worked. I got the Medela Freestyle, which is so small you can carry it around, because after all that time being chained to the hospital's monstrosity I wanted something portable. The medical supplier I got it from told me I'd have to pay out of pocket and then get reimbursed. I knew that because I was getting an upgraded pump I might have to cover the difference, but when I got a check back from insurance for the $400 pump it was…$60. I fought with the insurance and the supplier but each blamed the other for whatever it was I did wrong.
Then the ironic thing was that then I heard Medela's Pump in Style (which I might have been able to get without having to pay out of pocket) was actually a better choice, because the Freestyle's motor was not as strong. I started to get very worried about being able to pump enough while at work, and that concern began to outweigh the mobility issue (after all, I was mainly going to be sitting in my office pumping anyway). But it was too late – even though unopened, I couldn't return the Freestyle. So here I was with a pump I didn't even want that insurance wouldn't cover. Gah.
I pumped once a day to build a freezer stash. I also got a $35 Medela hand pump which, though not hands-free, worked really well for me. Because it didn't seem as complicated to hook up as my other pump, I ended up using it more. I often pumped in the car while my husband was driving, because that was time when I wouldn't really have been doing anything else with my hands anyway.
I was really nervous about finding time to pump at work. There had been days when I didn't have time to pee or eat lunch, so how on earth was I going to be able to pump? True, I could work on my computer while pumping, but it meant interrupting my day to hook myself up, take it off, etc. I didn't know how long I would be able to last, but it was really important to me to keep breastfeeding. I was faced with the dilemma that every working mother who wants to nurse is faced with. And it sucked.
My grand plan was to pump during my commute – while driving. I'm not sure if that's illegal, but, I reasoned, why would it be? It was hands-free. Sure, it would be super embarrassing if I ever got pulled over, and I hoped it wouldn't be dangerous if I got in an accident (can one be impaled on her flanges?). I did a trial run after my back-to-work hair appointment. I hooked myself up in the parking lot, covered myself with a nursing cover, and switched the pump on. I made it home fine, with 5 ounces of milk to boot.
Then I found out my position was being eliminated. A huge weight fell off my shoulders. I didn't have to pump anymore. I actually did pump once in my office when I returned for a day to clean it out. It was weird, knowing that that would be the one and only time I would have to do something I'd been dreading for months.
After that I basically stopped pumping. The milk in my freezer went bad – I felt guilty I hadn't donated it, but I wanted to keep it until the end just in case an emergency came up. There were a few other times I had to use the pump, but for the most part my $400 contraption sits in a box in my closet.
I cannot imagine pumping several times a day for months while at work. I'm not sure I could have done it. Because I got fired and then had the luxury of staying home with LM, I could breastfeed as nature intended. I hate that the pump purports to make women's lives easier (and in some ways it does), but it also brings up so many other problems. It's an excuse for not extending maternity leave – if you want to breastfeed, you can just pump! It's unwieldy, it's expensive, it takes time away from your child. If the choice is having a year-long maternity leave, like they have in other countries, or returning to work and using the pump, guess which one is better for mom and baby?
I have to be glad the pump exists, because without it NICU babies like mine and others who have it far worse than mine would not be able to receive breast milk. But personally, I was so happy to see the damn thing go. I haven't had to pump in about six months, and don't miss it one bit.
What was your experience with the breast pump? Do you hate it or love it?


text:
Free 412live iPhone and Android Apps
The official and FREE iPhone and Android apps for 412live are here! Grab them at the links below and listen to 5 channels of global electronic music streaming 24/7 anywhere you go!
Click the link below:
412live app for iPhone
412live app for Android
You can always listen on your laptop, desktop, or other mobile device at http://412live.com
Make sure to connect with our social media and stay up to date with us!
twitter @412liveradio


text:
From a DVD into iDVD
This tutorial shows you how to combine video clips from one or more iDVD create DVDs or unencrypted regular DVD and import them into a new iDVD project. This tutorial will use DVDxDV Pro which you can download a free trial version to follow along. The trial version will watermark your video and you will need to purchase the full version and re-extract the video to remove the water mark.
iDVD works best if the video is in the proper format and size. This will avoid problems and quality loss when re-encoding the video on a new DVD. DVDxDV Pro takes care of this so that your video will always look its best on the new DVD.
1. Install DVDxDV Pro by downloading the trial version of DVDxDV Pro. The trial version will watermark your video, but it will allow you to follow along with this tutorial. You will need to purchase the full version and re-upload your video again to remove the watermark.
2. Start DVDxDV Pro from your Applications folder.
3. The main window will appear.
4. If you have a DVD in your computer, DVDxDV Pro will automatically load the DVD. You can, also, load the DVD using the File->Open DVD menu option.
5. Your DVD should begin loading into DVDxDV Pro. After it is finished, you should see one or more video titles in the DVDxDV Pro window.
6. You are now ready to extract your video. Select the Extract->Movie option from the menu.
7. This will bring up the export preset dialog. Click the export preset menu button.
8. Select the iDVD export preset that matches the type of DVD that you are using. There are two standards for DVDs, NTSC and PAL. NTSC is mainly for North America while PAL is used almost everywhere else.
9. Press the export button.
10. The save dialog will appear asking you for a place to save your video. Make sure you remember the location of this video as you will need to import it into iDVD.
DVDxDV Pro will begin extracting from the DVD.
11. After extracting the video, drag the video from the Finder into a new iDVD project.


text:
On a Wednesday afternoon when the Kansas City heat indices approached 110 degrees, the Indians kept their cool enough to rout the defending champions 11-4 and win the three-game series, two games to one.
The Tigers lost to the Twins 4-1 Wednesday afternoon, so the Indians lead the AL Central by 7.5 games. Cleveland (56-38) has the best winning percentage in the American league –.596.
A Jason Kipnis home run put them ahead in the first inning, shutout pitching by Carlos Carrasco suppressed the Royals for six innings and Tyler Naquin continued his unexpected rookie power surge with three extra-base hits.
Naquin has 26 extra-base hits, including a dozen home runs, in fewer than 200 plate appearances.
Carlos Santana also homered for the Indians.
By the seventh inning, both teams appeared to be conceding the result, calling in reserves for their overheated athletes. The Royals even sent designated hitter Kendrys Morales to first base, forcing their pitcher to bat in the third lineup position where Eric Hosmer started.
Carrasco allowed only one hit and two walks in six innings before he was replaced by Dan Otero. Carrasco made only 84 pitches in the sweltering heat. Royals starter Ian Kennedy made 104 pitches and only lasted until one out in the fifth inning.
Reliever Austin Adams spoiled the shutout, allowing four runs and five hits in the eighth inning. He only retired two batters.
The Indians will have a day to cool off on Thursday as they travel to Baltimore for a 7 p.m. game Friday against the Orioles. Trevor Bauer (7-3, 3.36) will start for the Indians against Dylan Bundy (2-2, 3.70). The Orioles held a half-game lead in the American League East before their Wednesday game with the Yankees. The Weather Channel expects 96 degrees in Baltimore Friday with little chance for rain.
You are invited to look at the Game Thread for additional notes.