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Technical Problem With This Chapter?
Author: St Margarets
Story: Sera's Story
Part: Sera's Story
Rating: Young Teens
Setting: Pre-DH
Status: Completed
Reviews: 27
Words: 8,794
Updated: January 15, 2007, 3:38pm
Sera's Story
I. Letters
June 30, 2028
Dear Sera,
Happy Sixteenth Birthday! It's always easy for me to remember your birthday because mine is the day before yours – just like my dad's birthday is the day before your dad's birthday. I can't believe you want potion plants again for your birthday, but if that's what Sera wants, then that is what Sera gets! I wish I could wrap up DD for you – but I don't think Trowel could carry him, you know what I mean?
I don't want to spell out DD's name in case this owl is intercepted by Monica McClaggen. I swear – I don't know why she's so jealous of you. Just because you're asked out a lot isn't a reason for her to be so jealous. I mean, it's not like you actually go out since your heart belongs to DD! Well, except for those three weeks you went out with Leo this spring. When are you going to tell me the whole story, Sera? You know I'd never tell. I'm your best friend!
I really like the hand lotion you sent me for my birthday! I can't believe you mixed that up yourself – and it smells a lot better than the shampoo you made at Christmas! I swear the warts on my hands are getting better already. Great-gran says that warts used to be a sign of great beauty in her day, but I think she's confusing warts with moles – what do you think? It's kind of like when she calls me 'Alice' instead of Alison, you know?
I wish I had a slew of cousins like you, Sera. If Tony comes over to use the Pitch in your back garden, then I reckon he'll bring Rafe and maybe Rafe will bring DD! Right? Of course, I wouldn't mind just Tony and Rafe since they're both cute! I know you don't think your own cousin is cute, but you have to admit that Rafe is very handsome – really, he's the best looking boy in seventh year. And Andrea Wallace is the best looking girl. Why don't you try to get them together, Sera? And I'll take Tony! Just kidding! (Well, I'm not really kidding – but let's face it, I don't play Quidditch and that's all he cares about.)
Have you got your O.W.L. results yet? I haven't and I'm glad, since I can't imagine what sort of mark I'm going to get in Transfiguration after I turned that cup into a turtle and not a tarantula. Still, the notes you gave me for History of Magic helped me so much! Reading about the goblin rebellions from the point of view of the goblin princess was so interesting. Your brother was so nice to give you that quill.
Well, that's enough for now. I have weeding to do. I don't like to weed but Dad gave me the choice to do that or dust Gran's room. I think you know why I chose weeding!
And yes, I'll shade my face. It's sweet of you to always remind me that I have a nice complexion. It helps me face that mean mirror in the downstairs bathroom, you know?
Happy Birthday, almost-twin!
July 3, 2028
Dear Alison (almost-twin),
Thank you for the potion plants! Mum helped me plant them. Next year at this time I should have all the ingredients for conditioner at my fingertips. When I told my Aunt Hermione, she was glad, since she's tired of paying top Galleons for Bobbin's conditioner. I told her that I knew it was expensive, but she was worth it and she would have no hair left if she kept using that Sleek-Easy stuff.
I have my O.W.L. results! I got an Outstanding in Potions and History of Magic! I only got an E in Muggle Studies, but David thought that was a good mark considering how they've changed the exam to include current Muggle technology. Even he is having trouble keeping up with computers and space ships even though he has a Muggle girlfriend.
Shh, don't tell – but I think she's the one! Mum thinks so, too, but we're waiting for David to do something – like tell her he's a professor at a magical school in Scotland and not a Muggle boarding school. Mum threatened to put a Silencing Charm on me whenever I'm around Caroline if I don't stop dropping hints about magic. But I really want to go to a Muggle wedding. I think it would be so much fun.
Oh, yes. The rest of my marks were Es except for the Acceptable I got in Care of Magical Creatures. Really, you'd think Uncle Charlie would give a break to his own niece – but there was no way I was going to feed live voles to the Hippogriffs. When is the life of a vole less important than any other life?
When I explained this to Dad, he wanted to know how the steak I was eating was less important than the life of a vole. I wish I could have thought of an answer to that question at the time. Rafe said I should have approached it from the cruelty angle. You know – the vole is eaten alive and the cow never knew what hit him/her. I didn't realize how clever Rafe is – I think he's almost as smart as DD.
I forgot to tell you. Tony has been over here almost every day. They're digging up the Pitch in his family's back garden because his sister, Amy, is getting married next New Year's Eve. (Aunt Padma wants an Enchanted Forest theme and the trees have to start growing now.) Tony's determined to be a professional Beater when he leaves Hogwarts, so he wants to practice all the time. He will even play with me now! Rafe talked him into it by telling him that he (Tony) needs to get used to playing with other players since he (Rafe) is going to join his father's law office next year and won't be Tony's partner on the Pitch anymore.
Of course, they were both shocked at how good I was. Boys are so stupid sometimes. Rafe wanted to know why I never tried out for the team and I told him it was because I wanted to play Beater and no other position. Then he wanted to know why I didn't compromise and try out for another position. Before I could say anything, Tony spoke up and said I was an "all or nothing" girl about everything. I was so afraid that Tony was referring to my feelings about DD, but he wasn't. It wouldn't do for Tony or DD's own cousin to know my feelings. I would die of embarrassment. Although Rafe is so clever and has gone out with so many witches, he could probably give me some good advice.
Speaking of DD – he's returning from the American Pensieve conference next week! Maybe he'll show up here some day! This month's Cosmowitch says that wizards don't like it when witches talk too much. I'm going to practice being 'quiet and mysteriously alluring' around Rafe and Tony in case DD shows up.
Someday I'll tell you all about Leo Creevey, Allison. Let's just say the problem with his hands wasn't warts. I don't know what came over me in the first place – forgetting DD like that. I blame the stress of O.W.L.s and the fact that Leo has really nice curly hair. It's not a time of my life I'm proud of, but I don't mind telling you that since you're always so understanding.
Besides having a nice complexion, you have beautiful blonde hair! Why don't you accidentally-on-purpose break that mirror? Kidding! Although, I could ask Rafe about the legality of accidentally-on-purpose.
I'm off to the Burrow now. Grandmum never has her nails done unless I do them for her. You should see how much better her cuticles look already! I can't wait to see what she thinks of last night's Days of Destiny. I knew Clare would finally realize that she was in love with the wrong Lovatt brother!
Try to talk your mum into letting you visit this summer. Tony has been here everyday. Once he gets to know you, he'll love you!
PS – Warts are not, and have never been, a sign of beauty.
"A hair stylist," she corrected. "And yes, I do." She could feel her face turning red and not from the heat of the hot July sun. Mum had often said that Sera should learn to take the teasing from cousins in stride, but Sera could never see the point of letting someone walk all over you just for their own amusement. And this was worse because Rafe was right there. Deciding that silence was the best strategy (and the most mysteriously alluring one), she fished around in her jeans pocket for the key to the shed.
"What's so mad about Sera being a hairdress– er – I mean, stylist?" Rafe asked Tony.
Her back stiffened. Rafe had better not be aiding and abetting Tony in teasing her. She started to work the key into the rusty lock.
"Because it means owning your own business," Tony answered. "Which is a rubbish way to make a living, if you ask me."
Sera stopped fiddling with the key in the lock. This wasn't about her – it was about Tony.
Rafe seemed to think so, too. "Tough day at the office, dear?"
"Shut it," Tony told him without heat. "I spent the whole morning at the shop unpacking crates and listening to Dad yelling at suppliers in one fireplace and Uncle Fred trying to explain what 'limited liability' means to an irate customer in the other."
"Mum's going through the same thing," Rafe said. "She's starting to make holiday robes and the silk she ordered in February hasn't arrived yet and twenty bolts of velvet in the wrong shade of green were delivered yesterday."
Sera worked the lock open and frowned. How did Rafe know about silks and velvets?
"See, Sera," Tony said, stepping into the dusty shed and pulling out the equipment trunk, "even stylish Lady DuSult has problems. You don't want to own your own business."
"That's right!" Sera gasped, forgetting to be mysterious. "Your mum is Lady DuSult of Lady DuSult's Little Black Robes." She stared at Rafe. Somewhere in the back of her mind she had known that – but now certain details about Rafe clicked together – like how he could look like an advert for "smart casual wizard wear" every time he showed up to play back-garden Quidditch. "She's brilliant."
"She is," he agreed easily. "You should talk to her about starting her own business. It took her a long time, but she managed it."
"Do you think she would talk to me?" Sera squeaked. "She's famous."
Rafe laughed. "Not as famous as your dad – and he talked to me."
"Oh? What did Dad say to you?" Sera reached for her favorite Beater Bat. It was lightweight, but Mum had modified several Strengthening Charms so that the wood didn't flex when it came in contact with a Bludger.
"He said to make sure the equipment got back into the shed because it was going to rain."
Sera giggled. "That's just Dad. It's not because he's famous."
Tony ignored their conversation and opened the trunk. The Bludgers were straining against their restraints.
"That's good to know," Rafe said, kneeling down to help Tony. "I felt like I was one of the little people or something."
"Dad's not like that at all," Sera protested. Somehow it seemed important that Rafe understand this. "He's just quiet until he gets to know you."
"Unlike Sera," Tony said. He loosened one of the restraints so that Rafe could wrestle the Bludger out of the trunk. It almost hit Rafe in the nose, but he managed to hold it away from his face until he released it outside of the shed, where it flew to the Pitch.
"I read an article in Cosmowitch that explained the difference in communication styles between witches and wizards," Sera began.
"Don't give me that witches/wizard rubbish," Tony said, loosening the restraints on the other Bludger. Rafe grabbed it and hurried to the door of the shed to release it. "That blonde friend of yours never says a word – and you're both witches."
"Alison?" Sera's hopes rose. At least Tony had noticed Alison. "She talks. She's just a little shy." Then she shook her bat at Tony. "She's coming for a visit next week, so you'd better be nice to her."
"I'm nice," Tony muttered, his ears turning an interesting shade of red.
"Just don't tease her," Sera said. She longed to cross-examine Tony about his interest in Alison, but the Bludgers were on the Pitch and Rafe was already on his broom.
"Fine. I'll tease you then." Tony pulled one of the pins holding the complicated plait she had twisted around her head. Her hair tumbled around her shoulders in an untidy cloud.
"Tony!" she shrieked.
She heard him laugh as he kicked off from the ground. Sera combed her hair out of her face with her fingers and plucked out the remaining pins. She glared over at Tony who was in the air, hitting Bludgers and completely ignoring her.
"Sorry, Sera."
Sera jumped. She hadn't realized the Rafe was right next to her. "You didn't do anything," she retorted, wishing she had a comb. "Tony's been unbearable all summer."
"He's just worried about his future." Rafe watched her as she ruthlessly twisted her hair into a knot and pinned it. "Why don't you leave it down?"
"It gets in the way when you fly." She sighed and watched her cousin dodge one Bludger and then hit another. He wasn't smiling like he usually did when he played Quidditch. "I wish he wasn't so miserable."
"Maybe your friend will cheer him up."
"Really?" Sera squealed. Rafe would know if Tony fancied Alison. She eagerly turned to him. "Does he fancy Alison? That would be brilliant!"
Rafe laughed. "I have no idea. But that would indeed be brilliant – for Tony," he agreed. "So," he added, his eyes twinkling, "what would cheer you up?"
It was on the tip of Sera's tongue to say that his cousin Daniel would cheer her up immensely, but something stopped her. Instead she blushed. "Just to see Tony happy – and Alison, too of course."
Rafe laughed again. "Don't forget peace on earth and good will towards all men."
"Well, that, too," she said, ducking her head, wondering why she was suddenly shy around him.
"But I thought a Pensieve only recorded information that already happened," Rafe said. "How do you create a game where it's all a surprise to the player?"
"It's all in the past to me if I've already thought of it," Daniel said, smiling so his brown eyes twinkled softly. Sera didn't understand half of what he was talking about, but she really didn't care since it was a perfect summer day and she could finally look into those velvety brown eyes. Besides, if she didn't join in the discussion, she could appear mysteriously alluring.
"But, Danny, that means you have to think of all the outcomes – every permutation," Rafe continued, staring at his cousin as he were mad. "I'm not that great at Arithmancy – but if you had twelve doors and for each door there were four choices and then more doors...." He frowned. "You must have to think of hundreds of scenarios."
"Thousands, actually." Daniel shrugged. "It just takes patience and you have to remember the details, of course."
Tony snorted. "Watch out if you don't. Remember that one game they recalled where the dragon guarding the treasure was a troll if you went down one corridor and a mermaid if you entered through the trap door?"
Daniel laughed. "That was the notorious DD – 'Dungeons and Dragons' – but they call it 'Dungeons and Darn If We Know' in the industry now."
Alison nudged Sera with her elbow at hearing Daniel actually saying DD. Sera tried not to burst into a fit of giggles.
"I don't know how you have any brain space left for anything important, Danny," Tony said, shaking his head. "Like Quidditch – or witches – or Quidditch."
"We're working on a Quidditch strategy game right now," Daniel said, ignoring the gibe about witches, which Sera thought was commendable and the sign of a true gentleman. "The Cannons commissioned a no-frills game so their players could try out different strategies."
"Well, I'm glad this new Pensieve technology is proving to be useful," Tony said, standing up. "But if I don't get back up in the air, virtual Quidditch is the only thing I'm going to be playing after Hogwarts."
"All right." Daniel hauled himself to his feet. "Don't expect great competition since I'm a little Portkey-lagged."
Tony waved that away. "Sera will take care of you, right Sera? She's going to be your Beater."
Daniel stared at her. "You play Beater? I didn't think witches had that killer instinct."
Sera forgot to be quiet and mysterious around him, since this was a subject near and dear to her heart. "The Beater position is about protection, not killing," she said with as much dignity as she could whilst squinting against the sun shining in her eyes. "It's about protecting your teammates so they can do what they need to do. I think that's a very important role and one few people want to take on, since it's about support and team work."
Sera moved back so she wouldn't have the sun in her eyes and trod on Rafe's foot in the process. "Sorry," she said quickly over her shoulder.
Rafe just smiled and steadied her by briefly touching her upper arms. Odd, she had never noticed that his eyes were the same brown as Daniel's.
"God, Sera," Tony said disgustedly. "Would you get off your high broom about the philosophical implications of the Beater position? You sound just like Rafe talking about barristers." He mounted his broom. "You're supposed to take off a few heads of the opposing team, too, you know."
"Um," Alison spoke up timidly. "What am I supposed to do?"
"We're practicing with Bludgers and the Quaffle," Tony explained in a much nicer voice than the one he had used with Sera. "Danny will try to get past me, and Rafe will to try to get past Sera. We're not really keeping score or anything."
"Oh." Alison colored prettily because Tony was talking directly to her.
"You can be on my team," Tony said suddenly. "I think I had better protect you."
"Okay," Alison said, her eyes shining worshipfully at Tony.
Tony's chest swelled as he took a Beater's bat from Daniel. Sera had to turn around to hide her smile. Rafe caught her eye and she stifled a giggle. Tony had been a different person during Alison's visit.
Daniel Davies was an incredible flier, Sera realized about ten minutes into their improvised game. He was having no trouble dodging Bludgers on his own, so Sera had barely waved her bat. Rafe was not fairing so well, since he was used to hitting Bludgers, and not dodging them. Tony wasn't helping Rafe at all, Sera thought indignantly, since he was too busy flying close to Alison and not watching out for his best mate.
"Tony!" Sera yelled. "Would you protect your Chaser, please?"
Tony made a face at her and whacked the Bludger toward Daniel. Sera streaked to Daniel's side, but he and the Bludger were long gone by the time she got there. She took out her frustrations by blindly hitting the next Bludger that came near her. The small satisfaction she received from the crack of wood hitting iron was driven out by horror when she saw the direction the Bludger was traveling – right to the back of Rafe's head.
He turned in time to see the Bludger, but not in time to dodge it. It hit his temple with a sickening thud.
Sera saw him sway and then crumple. Without further thought, she pushed her broom into a dive and caught him as he was about to slide off of his broom.
His body was dead weight against her own and her broom was still traveling downward. Sera pulled up with her knees, hoping she could keep her broom level so that Rafe wouldn't slip off.
"Sera, slow up," Daniel said, flying next to her. Sera leaned back. It was hard to brake without use of her hands, but she couldn't let go of Rafe.
"Good," Daniel said as she slowed. "Just coast. I'll steer your broom to the ground."
Sera could feel the sweat trickling down her back as they made their careful descent. Tony and Alison were already on the ground watching them anxiously. "I summoned the Apparition Ambulance," Tony blurted.
"Good idea," Daniel said. "He's still out cold."
Rafe's head lolled on Sera's shoulder. How long had he been out? The longer someone was unconscious, the more serious the injury. Finally they were on the ground. "Sera, he's too heavy for you," Tony said. "Let me."
"No." Sera collapsed heavily on to the grass and cradled Rafe's curly head in her lap.
Rafe opened his eyes and stared up at her with unfocused eyes. "Rafe?" she gasped tearfully. "Are you all right?"
"Stay with Sera," he mumbled. "She smells better than you, Tony." Then he lapsed back into unconsciousness.
Dear Rafe,
I'm sooo sorry about hitting that Bludger toward you. I hope you know that I would never purposely try to take your head off since I believe Beaters should protect and not hurt. Still, I'm ashamed to admit that I did swing my bat in anger since I thought Tony was too busy flirting to protect you. (I was right, since you did get hit.)
None of that excuses the fact that it was my fault you had to spend a night at St. Mungo's for observation. I'm so glad my brother Brian was your Healer. I knew he would take good care of you because I asked him to especially watch out for you. He knew how worried I was because he Apparated to the house in the morning to tell me how you were.
Even though I'm angry with Tony for not protecting you and for continuing to flirt with Alison in the hospital corridor outside of your room, I think he's finally getting his priorities straight. He's actually talked more about you and Alison than he has about Quidditch – which is really saying something.
I think a relationship is more important than a career, don't you?
I hope you're not still having headaches. You don't have to write back if you don't want to. I just wanted to let you know how sorry I am.
August 14, 2028
Dear Alison,
I wrote to Rafe to apologize. It's a stupid letter, but I've never begged for forgiveness before. I'm enclosing a copy of it so you can tell me what you think.
By the way, I don't blame you for flirting with Tony since Rafe isn't your best mate since childhood. But if you were lying in a hospital bed unconscious, I wouldn't flirt with Daniel, I can tell you that.
In fact, I was so nervous about Rafe, I didn't pay the slightest bit of attention toward Daniel. Clare on Days of Destiny would have sobbed on his manly chest and he would have confessed to all sorts of tender (but manly) feelings toward his cousin. This would be the audience's first indication that they would make a brilliant couple since they could support each other in times of strife and sorrow.
I'm starting to think that Daniel and I aren't going to be a couple. If Days of Destiny has taught me anything, it's the fact that trouble either makes or breaks a relationship. In this case whatever "relationship" I have with Daniel is just the same. He knows my name and he's always friendly and nice – but that's about it.
Don't mind me.
I didn't sleep very well last night since I had that dream again about not catching Rafe before he fell. Dad heard me crying and woke me up. He told me it's common to have dreams like that after an intense rescue – even if it was successful. Poor Dad. I never really realized how stressful his job is.
I can't believe it's less than a month until we go back to Hogwarts. At least you'll get to see Tony every day. And I hope Rafe has forgiven me by then.
August 15, 2028
Dear Sera,
Please don't blame yourself for my Bludger injury. I should have known better than to fly under an opposing Beater. That's one of those elemental rules every team captain yells at the Chasers during the first practice of the season. And don't blame Tony too much. Pretty girls are a great distraction and will make you forget the elemental rules of Quidditch.
Danny says that if you hadn't caught me, I would have been badly injured from the fall. I'm amazed and grateful you were able to do that for me.
I still have occasional headaches, but nothing to worry about. I'm staying with my Grandmother Eleanor right now since her groundskeeper is on holiday and she needs help with her Hippogriff herd. (Or is it flock?) And don't worry – I'm not feeding them live voles. Grandmother prefers to feed her Hippogriffs insects and liver from the market.
I don't mind staying here except that I can't help Dad and Uncle Roger in the office each morning like I've been doing all summer. I think that was part of the plan, since reading was giving me a headache that first week. But now I'm better, and I'm starting to get bored.
To answer your question: I think a relationship and a career are both very important, but I know my Grandmother Eleanor would agree with you about the supremacy of a relationship.
I'll see you on the train?
August 16, 2028
Dear Sera,
I was not flirting with Tony! I can't believe you were so wrapped up in your own emotions that you didn't notice how upset he was. I never thought about Clare from Days of Destiny, but I think you are right. We did become a little closer after Rafe's accident. You know what I mean? I can't explain it very well, but we were really talking. I don't know what this means because there hasn't been any kissing – yet. (Ha!)
I don't think Rafe minds that Tony was holding hands with me in the corridor, either. He told Tony that he could understand why he was distracted – and that it was a good thing I wasn't on the Gryffindor Quidditch team. That made me laugh, since all of Gryffindor house would have to be expelled before I could make the team.
I'm glad to hear you're finally moving on from Daniel, Sera. I know you pride yourself on your loyalty, but I do think he's a lost cause until he's at least thirty. He's a typical flier. And you know what they say about fliers on Days of Destiny – "they have their heads in the clouds and they fly right out of your life." Maybe he'll fly back into yours when he's ready for a real relationship.
Great-gran always has the owls deliver the post to her first, so she saw that I had a letter from Tony. She couldn't understand why a wizard was writing to me since I was still a little girl. Honestly. I had to remind her again that I was sixteen and not six. Then I felt bad for speaking sharply to her because she looked so confused.
Dad said he wasn't ready for owls from wizards, either. But he wasn't surprised since he had such a pretty daughter. My dad is so sweet sometimes. But then he made me weed the vegetable garden.
Oh, and I thought your letter to Rafe was fine, although I think you were too hard on Tony. He is Rafe's best mate after all.
August 30, 2028
Dear Alison,
I know it's silly to write to you when I'll see you Monday at Hogwarts, but I'm so excited. I talked Mum into letting me buy dress robes at Lady DuSult's Little Black Robes! At first Mum wouldn't even consider walking into the shop since she didn't think Lady DuSult would have anything to suit a young girl going to her cousin's New Year's Eve wedding. I told her that Madam Malkin wouldn't have anything either – unless she thought powder blue polyester robes were appropriate for young girls.
Once we actually entered the LBR shop, Mum came right around. I found the most gorgeous set of robes in this gold-pink shade that was perfect for her. Honestly, if Mum only tried she'd be as beautiful as Aunt Fleur all of the time. Anyway, I ended up with these simple velvet robes in this deep ruby color. On the hanger they don't look like much, but they made me look older and almost sophisticated! (Now if I can only get rid of these last seven freckles!)
Mum got sentimental for a moment in the dressing room – which was kind of nice since Mum doesn't get sentimental very often. It was almost like that Days of Destiny scene with Fiona and Clare on Clare's wedding day. I wonder if Aunt Padma will be sentimental with Amy on her wedding day? Probably not, since she will have the Enchanted Forest and two hundred wedding guests to worry about.
Lady DuSult (Rafe's mother) talked to us when the shop assistant was adding up our order. She was behind the counter when she heard our names. What's funny is that she wasn't interested in Mum; she was interested in me. "You're Sera!" she said, and then she smiled like she was happy to finally meet me.
I couldn't believe she knew about me, but then I remembered I had put her only child in the hospital, so I apologized to her, too. She just sort of smiled and said something like "all's fair in Quidditch." I couldn't understand this because the phrase is "all's fair in love and war," isn't it? Although Rafe says she's originally from Australia so maybe they say something different down there. Then she told me I had excellent taste.
Lady DuSult said I had excellent taste. That's quite a compliment, Alison.
Yes, I was too hard on Tony in my letter to Rafe. Rafe stuck up for him, which isn't a surprise, since that's the way Rafe is.
What do you suppose Rafe meant about seeing me on the train? Do you think he wants to sit with me? Or just wave hello?
Danny (I don't need to call him DD, anymore) isn't a flier, Alison. He's a very intelligent wizard who has a lot of things to do right now. And he was never in my life to fly out of it. So I'm good with that – I think.
I can't wait to talk to you about this in person! It seems like forever since you visited.
"I don't know," Rafe hissed back. "This isn't exactly the place for a private conversation."
Sera scowled at him. "You're not exactly easy to find alone since you either have Tony or Andrea Wallace hanging around you."
"Me?" he said. "I've been trying to talk to you alone since the train. But every time I see you, you're surrounded by Alison or Trevor Whathisname or that Burke fellow or the short bloke from Hufflepuff."
Sera still felt bad about the train. "I didn't mean to spend so much time with Jane Stevens on the train – but the poor girl had just been dumped by her boyfriend and she needed an emergency makeover. And then Trevor turned up looking for Alison. And I knew Alison didn't want to see Trevor when she was trying to flirt with Tony, so I stalled him for awhile."
Rafe crossed his arms in front of chest and looked down his nose at her. "Alison managed to flirt. I was there the entire time."
Sera stifled a giggle. "Oh."
He started to smile. "Is that all you're going to say? 'Oh'?"
Now she did giggle. "Uh-huh."
"I know. Serves me right." Rafe wasn't looking so nettled now. "Should've thrown a bucket of water on them and then gone looking for you." He frowned again. "You shouldn't be giving false hopes to this Trevor Whathisname or Bobby Burke or the short one."
She bristled at the thought she would give anyone false hopes, since she knew from terrible experience how difficult it was to fancy someone who didn't know you were alive. "Trevor Whitby, Johnny Burke – and Jeff isn't that short." Rafe started to retort, but she held up her hand. "Trevor thinks he likes me, but it's just transference from his infatuation with Alison. I read about it in Cosmowitch – it's his way of transitioning away from Alison but still having the familiarity of her best friend. Now, Johnny –"
"Sera –"
"Now, Johnny just doesn't have a lot of confidence. So I think he's happy to practice talking to me whilst he waits to find a real passion in his life –"
"Sera –"
Sera continued on, since Rafe really needed to understand that she would never give anyone false hopes. "I think passion is important in a relationship – don't you? And I don't think he feels that way about me at all because he always agrees with everything I say. I mean, I hate to argue – but I do like a discussion – you know, an exchanging of different ideas."
"I know the definition of discussion." His eyes flashed in annoyance. "And this isn't one, since you haven't let me get a word in edgewise."
"That's because I'm trying to make you understand that I'm not giving anyone false hopes!" Sera said. She was leaning so far over the table that the sharp edge was digging into her waist. "And you're right. Jeff is short – so the number of girls who are shorter than him is limited."
Rafe ran his hand through his hair in frustration. "Do you ever look in a mirror?"
"Of course I do." She straightened. "How else do I part my hair? Or find out if I have six freckles instead of seven?"
"Maybe one of your beaus count them for you," he said sourly. But he was staring at her nose, so maybe he was counting them.
"No one is counting my freckles," she said crossly and then she rubbed her nose.
"They're still there," he pointed out, looking amused now.
She dropped her hand and glared at him. "Now do you believe I'm not giving anyone false hope?"
His eyes locked with hers. Sera felt that familiar flutter of attraction. Rafe had the same velvety brown eyes as Daniel. Eyes. That's what all those years of fancying Daniel had been about. She truly was the shallowest witch who ever attended Hogwarts.
"I believe now that you don't intend that result."
Sera snapped her attention back to Rafe's words. "Sorry, what result?"
"Giving false hope."
"Should I be glad about what you now believe – or not?" she asked wearily. Realizing that she was now fancied Rafe on the heels of not fancying Daniel made her want to hide in confusion.
"Sera, what's wrong? Look, I'm sorry if you think I insinuated anything, but I've been trying to talk to you for ages."
"No, that's not it." She searched frantically for any lame excuse. "I just want to have this Hogsmeade thing settled – that's all."
He took a deep breath. "Well, why don't you come with me?"
"I want to have Alison and Tony settled." She snorted. "And a witch isn't supposed to go out with a wizard who's better looking than she is." Then her eyes grew wide as she realized just what she had said.
Rafe laughed. "Cosmowitch?"
She nodded.
"Sera, will you please look in a mirror when you go back to your dormitory?"
Sera was going to crawl under her covers when she got back to her dormitory.
Thankfully, she was spared answering because Andrea Wallace chose that moment to stop and ask Rafe about an assignment they both had in Charms. Sera studied Andrea while they talked. Andrea had dark hair and striking blue eyes. They really would make a handsome couple except for the tiny problem that Andrea appeared to have no romantic interest in Rafe. No wonder Rafe wanted Sera to go with him. It might make Andrea jealous.
When Rafe turned back to the table, Sera had her answer ready for him. "I'll go with you to Hogsmeade," she said. "But I don't think trying to make Andrea jealous is going to work. I mean, you should just ask her out. The direct approach is usually the best."
"But I'm asking you out," he said, cocking his head. "I thought that was fairly direct."
Sera gave up. There was no use talking to Rafe when he was being clever. She couldn't keep up with him. "So what's the intent and what's the result?" she asked, feeling confused.
Rafe smiled. "The result," he said with satisfaction, "is that you're going to Hogsmeade with me."
VI. All or Nothing
"Oh, my hair looks good!" Jane said, admiring her reflection. "Thanks, Sera."
Sera smiled. Making someone feel happy and confident was the best part of being a stylist. "You look good – not just your hair," Sera replied. "Trevor will wonder what hit him."
"That was nice of you to set us up, Sera," Jane said softly, standing up and turning so she could see her entire outfit in the mirror. "I don't know if I'm over Derek yet, but at least I won't be sitting in Gryffindor Tower alone today."
"That's right," Sera said, waving her wand to clean up the tiny snippets of hair scattered around. "What's that saying? There are other fish in the sea?"
Jane giggled. "I reckon it's time to go fishing then." She looked at her watch. "You'd better get ready – it's almost one o'clock."
Sera thought she was ready. She was wearing jeans and a fine knit, cream-colored jumper. Not exactly smart casual – but appropriate for a trip to Hogsmeade on a warm autumn day. Although now that she looked at herself in the mirror, she wondered if the jumper was a little too clingy.
"Do you think this jumper is too tight?" she asked Jane doubtfully.
Jane smirked. "Not one wizard in this school would think that jumper is too tight."
Sera blushed. "That's not an answer!"
"You're just not used to seeing yourself in anything but school robes and loose sweatshirts," Jane said, pushing Sera by the shoulders into the chair in front of the mirror. "Now, if you were a client how would you ask Sera Potter to style your hair?"
Sera squinted at the mirror and really looked at her reflection. Her practice of plaiting her hair and pinning it away from her face in hopes of looking sophisticated was really not that becoming.
"You should wear it down," Jane coaxed. "You have pretty hair."
"It's not a pretty color," Sera mumbled, taking out the pins.
"Your hair matches your eyes," Jane replied. Then she looked at her watch again. "Oh, Sera, I have to go. It's almost time."
Sera hated to be late, but she couldn't leave the dormitory until she had done something with her hair. She quickly twisted the locks of hair hanging on either side of her face and anchored them on the crown of her head with a clip. Then she took her wand and curled the remaining wispy locks that refused to stay in the clip. The effect was rather flattering.
But now she was late.
Her heart was pounding as she raced down the stairs. The common room was empty, so Rafe must be waiting for her in the Entrance Hall. Or – horrors – maybe he was tired of waiting.
Trying to calm herself with stern lectures about transference and how she really didn't fancy Rafe, Sera hurried to the Entrance Hall. She was relieved to see that there were a few people left in the queue to be checked out and that Rafe was still there, pacing by stairs.
"I'm sorry I'm late," Sera said as she practically ran across the Hall. "It took me longer to do everyone's hair than I thought."
"You did yours, too," Rafe said, smiling. "You look nice."
Sera blushed and started to say, 'thank you,' but Rafe held up his hand.
"Don't you dare say I think you look nice because I've had a recent head injury."
He looked so disgruntled that Sera laughed. "I was going to say, 'thank you.'"
"Oh." He took a moment to recover and then gave her a dazzling smile. "Let's go to Hogsmeade."
Sera's breath caught in her throat and then she smiled back. Transference, she admonished herself. This feeling is just transference.
As they walked out into the bright sunshine, Sera tried to decide if 'quiet and mysterious' was the best approach for the afternoon until she remembered that there were several things she wanted to tell him.
"You know, Rafe," she began as they passed the gates of the school, "I was thinking today when I was styling Jane's hair, that if you ever need to know something about a witness or a suspect or an informant or one of those people – you should talk to their hair stylist."
"Oh?" He took her hand in his – probably because they were passing Andrea Wallace and her friends.
Not really thinking about the Cosmowitch dos and don'ts, she squeezed his hand affectionately. "Yes – the hair stylist. You wouldn't believe the things people will tell you when you're cutting their hair."
"Like what?"
"Like what Derek I'm-a-big-cheat Donovan told Jane when he dumped her!"
"Maybe you shouldn't be telling me this," Rafe began.
"It's not the confessional," Sera retorted, pulling her hand away. "Or attorney-client privilege."
"No, I suppose not," Rafe said in a placating tone. "And your idea is a good one."
Sera felt mollified that Rafe didn't think her idea was stupid. But now she had dropped his hand and she didn't know how to get it back.
"But the next question is," Rafe continued, "is how do you get the hairstylist to talk to the barrister about what her client said?"
Sera stopped in the middle of the path and stared at him. As always, Rafe was way ahead of her. Then she laughed. "I don't know! I suppose that's the problem for you to figure out."
"I was hoping you could help me with that problem," Rafe said seriously.
"What problem?" she whispered. He was looking at her so intently with those wonderful eyes that she couldn't look away.
"How to get the hairdresser to tell me what I need to know."
"Stylist," she corrected automatically. Then she swallowed. "What do you need to know?"
"Sera." He took both of her hands in his. "Do you think you could like me just a little bit?"
Could she like him just a little bit? The question thundered through her mind as the blood pounded through her racing heart. Yes, a little voice whispered, oh yes.
"No," she said decidedly. "I can't like you just a little bit." Rafe started to pull away but she held his hands tightly. "I don't like people just a little bit." She held his gaze. "I'm an all or nothing type of a person."
His eyes darkened so that the velvety brown turned to night. Then he bent to kiss her, still holding her hands. The touch of his lips on hers was all too brief. "This is the 'all' of 'all or nothing', right?" he asked.
That uncertainty in his voice touched something in her. She stood on her tiptoes to put her arms around his neck and then she kissed him with everything she had. After his initial surprise, Rafe put his arms around her and kissed her back with equal enthusiasm.
"This is all," she affirmed when they finally broke apart.
He caressed her hair and smiled into her eyes. "I think there's more," he said, kissing her again.
Sera melted against him and decided that in this, as in many other things, Rafe was way ahead of her.
Dear Alison,
Happy New Year! I wish you could have attended Amy's wedding as Tony's guest, but I can understand why your parents didn't want you to leave during the holidays.
It was the perfect wedding. Amy wore a white Lady DuSult gown trimmed in white fur. Her hair was loose with flowers instead of a veil. I'm glad she didn't wear Great-Aunt Muriel's tiara. I really think there are two groups of brides – those who can wear tiaras and those who can't. You, Alison, could wear a tiara. I could not. I can't explain this – but I know it's true.
Amy's twin, Annette, also wore a Lady DuSult. (Mid-night blue trimmed in sable) The Enchanted Forest was beautiful by moonlight and the perfect setting for Amy and Jack to exchange their vows.
It was sooo romantic and a wonderful ending to their story. (Mum says that marriage is actually the beginning of the story, but I don't see how a relationship can be more romantic after marriage – unless you're Fiona in Days of Destiny and suffer from bouts of amnesia, kidnappings, and assassination attempts.) Anyway, Amy was telling us that she had fancied Jack back at Hogwarts, but since he was five years older than her and in a different house, and she didn't think he'd ever notice her.
Well, he didn't notice her at Hogwarts. Poor Amy. I don't think I could have held out hope as long as she did – although Jack's dad and Amy's dad were best mates in school so I think she kept tabs on Jack that way. The breakthrough came last year when Amy was assigned to write profiles for all of the Quidditch announcers in Britain. She had to interview Jack Jordan and the rest, as they say, is history.
Tony couldn't believe that of all the Quidditch players Amy has interviewed for Quidditch Illustrated, she had to fall for an announcer. I'm glad for Amy since I think Jack is really nice, and a lot of fun and he's a good dancer.
Before the wedding, all of the Weasley aunts were worried about Annette, since she is currently unattached. However, at the reception Annette danced every dance with a dark-haired, handsome stranger. I'm not kidding about how handsome he was. He looked like he came with the Enchanted Forest or something. Oddly enough, no one knew this man's name. Uncle George and Aunt Padma didn't know. Jack's parents didn't know. Finally someone had the sense to ask Uncle Ron. It turned out that the handsome stranger was Alberto DaVinci from Florence. He's in England for six months to do the marble work at the new Ministry for Magic. Uncle Ron thought he might be lonely over the holidays and invited him along.
Anyway, Alberto soon became part of our 'one big happy Weasley family' when Uncle George told everyone to open the favors on the tables. Once you opened the bag, a pair of magical arms gripped you in a suffocating hug and then your face was covered in pink lipstick kisses. Uncle George asked me months ago what shade of lipstick was most likely to be worn by annoying great-aunts. (Carnation pink) It was really funny to see everyone struggling to get away from all of that Weasley family love.
Speaking of Weasley love, (ha!) you'll be happy to know that Tony didn't dance one dance. Not even with his sister, the bride. He said he doesn't like to dance – but I think he was missing you.
I danced, though. With Rafe, of course. (Whee!) I also danced with Dad and with Danny. (I can't think of him as Daniel now, for some reason.) You know, I felt a little guilty when I was dancing with him, since he's a perfectly nice person and very good-looking. I can't explain why I thought I liked him for so long and now I feel nothing. I even asked Mum about it. She thought that since Danny was so quiet that perhaps I had been projecting a lot on to him.
What's funny is that Cosmowitch had an article about the dangers of projecting your desires on another in their December issue. So I think Mum is right.
Rafe says that if my hair salon doesn't pan out, I should consider writing for Cosmowitch since I'm a true believer. You know, I don't mind when Rafe teases me. I wonder why? Maybe because of the intent behind the words.
I told Rafe that I wished I had pined for him for years since that would make our relationship more romantic. Rafe said that I had indeed pined for him except I didn't realize it. He said that Cosmowitch was going to do a special Valentine's edition on the phenomenon known as Clueless-ness, and to expect an owl asking for an interview. That really made me laugh, since it's true.
I told Mum what Rafe had said about clueless-ness and she just smiled this little smile and said she thought that I had inherited that trait from the Potter side of the family. Really, Mum has been very understanding about Rafe. Dad has, too, except he keeps asking if I would like to go to Beauxbatons – or New Zealand – for my seventh year.
That's about all, Alison. I'll tell you about David and Caroline when we're back at school. Let's just say I'm going to get my wish to attend a Muggle wedding! Now if I could just find someone nice for Brian…
~The End~
A/N: This first appeared on my live journal. Thanks to Sherylyn for the beta!
For those of you who are interested, here's the "map" to this fluffy universe:
Family Trees
Davies Family
Father: Robert
Mother: Eleanor
Son: Richard (m. Gabriella DuSult)
Grandson: Raphael (Rafe)
Son: Roger (m. Lisa Turpin)
Grandson: Daniel
Bobbin Family – owners of Bobbin's Apothecary
Mother: Griselda (Sister of Eleanor Davies)
Daughter: Melinda (m. Barry Anderson then Michael DuSult)
DuSult Family
Daughter: Gabriella (m. Richard Davies)
Son: Michael (m. Melinda Bobbin)
Lisa Turpin is best friends with Padma Patil
Weasley Family
George m. Padma Patil
Daugthers: Amy
Son: Arthur Anthony (Tony)
Potter Family
Harry m. Ginny Weasley
Son: Brian
Son: David
Daughter: Seraphina Lily
Jordan Family
Mother: Jessica
Father: David
Son: Lee (m. Holly Kirke)
Grandson: Jack (m. Amy Weasley)
Granddaughter: Jill
Longbottom Family
Mother Alice
Father Frank
Son: Neville (m. Hannah Abbott)
Grandaughter: Alison
The Stories:
Roger and Lisa: A Romance launched these ships:
Next Generation:
Quick-Quotes Quill
Sera's Story
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More than an accessory. A fashion statement. Discover the Inspire collection.
Inspire makes a unique statement with its expressive design. Discover eyewear that emphasizes your style.
Colors set the tone with the Silhouette Inspire collection. Be inspired by the myriad of colors and lens shapes.
Isabella de Candia shows off her personality with Inspire. In this video, the young restaurant owner reveals the secret behind her success. Be inspired by her story.

subset: commoncrawl


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Wednesday, December 20, 2006
OT: Creation's Brilliant Glow
Creation's brilliant glow
New observations from NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope strongly suggest that infrared light detected in a prior study originated from clumps of the very first objects of the Universe. The recent data indicate this patchy light is splattered across the entire sky and comes from clusters of bright, monstrous objects more than 13 billion light-years away.Hat tip: Reason.
"We are pushing our telescopes to the limit and are tantalizingly close to getting a clear picture of the very first collections of objects," said Dr. Alexander Kashlinsky of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md., lead author on two reports to appear in the Astrophysical Journal Letters. "Whatever these objects are, they are intrinsically incredibly bright and very different from anything in existence today."
The analysis first involved carefully removing the light from all foreground stars and galaxies in the five regions of the sky, leaving only the most ancient light. The scientists then studied fluctuations in the intensity of infrared brightness, in the relatively diffuse light. The fluctuations revealed a clustering of objects that produced the observed light pattern.
"Imagine trying to see fireworks at night from across a crowded city," said Kashlinsky. "If you could turn off the city lights, you might get a glimpse at the fireworks. We have shut down the lights of the Universe to see the outlines of its first fireworks."
Newer› ‹Older


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Monday, November 15, 2010
Jim Lahey's Pane Integrale
Lahey is, of course, the person who, along with Mark Bittman, took the bread-baking world by storm with his no-knead bread. For a while, everyone, including me, was baking no-knead bread. Even non-bread-bakers were baking no-knead bread. I think it's now sort of last year, but it should have a place in every bread-baker's repertoire.
In this book, Lahey talks about his travel and background, and what brought him to baking bread. (No offense intended, but he seems like he's kind of a quirky and difficult-to-get-along-with kind of guy). He keeps mentioning that he quit various jobs because he had disagreements with co-workers. But what would you rather have? One more nice guy or an irascible originator of the Sullivan Street potato pizza? I'll take Mr. Irascible, as long as I don't have to live with him.
The book is a slim volume, with recipes for about a dozen basic breads, a few more breads made with liquids other than water, ten or twelve different pizzas, and as many sandwiches.
I chose the pane integrale, or whole-wheat bread, to start with. Except it's not really whole-wheat; it's bread made with some whole-wheat flour. Which is okay with me, because I usually find bread made with 100% whole-wheat flour too dense, solid, and bitter, the exception being Chris in Rhode Island's whole wheat bread. To be exact, this bread has 300 grams of bread flour and 100 grams of whole wheat flour. So it could be called Pane 1/4 Integrale, I guess.
6 comments:
- evil cake lady said...
now that is a bread i could love! i think i must have the opposite tastes in bread than you--the more dense and wheaty the better. i blame it on all the post-communist black bread i ate.
- breadbasketcase said...
I'd love to make that black bread. And maybe eat it with smoked salmon.
- Bbq Dude said...
The only bread I ever make these days is from Lahey's book. I find the extra-long fermentations to make an absolutely spectacular flavour.
- breadbasketcase said...
I'm still of two minds on this technique. I'm not sure it gets quite the same flavor as some breads with a starter, but I sure like the option of not using the stand mixer.
- Goody said...
I'm still in that early stage of bread-love with a new-ish starter. Eventually, I'll shove it in the fridge, but for the moment, I'm baking sourdough exclusively. I do however, use his technique with the Dutch oven to create steam-so simple. yet genius.
Speaking of Dutch ovens-would you like to share the secret to keeping yours so beautiful and white inside? *Hangs head*...I feel like such a terrible housekeeper when I look at my stained, discoloured pot.
- breadbasketcase said...
Hi Goody,
My Dutch oven is still newish. Believe me, I have no housekeeping secrets. You should pick up a copy of Lahey's book and see how stained and discolored all the pots are in the pictures--it just means they're used.
My sourdough starter is in the back of my refrigerator, often ignored for far too long, so I admire your sourdough breads.


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Comfort Inns Chesterfield hotels are provided below. Search for cheap and discount Comfort Inns hotel prices in Chesterfield, VA for your family, individual or group travels. We list the best Comfort Inns Chesterfield hotels + motels so you can review the Chesterfield Comfort Inns hotel list below to find the perfect place.
Our search will also provide discounted Chesterfield, VA properties that have similar quality of Comfort Inns.
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02 May 2013
Using plants to "micro-mine" metals
Certain plants have the ability to extract metal from the soil. A pilot facility in Lorraine is set to extract nickel from hyperaccumulating plants grown in Albania.
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You can't avoid pain by fencing yourself from it.
Some times you need the help of others more than anything else
But you have to let them close enough to help......
People want to be needed, I found that out too
To do: More Firedrums 08 video?
Wildfire/US East coast fire footage
LA/EDC glow/fire footage
Fresno fire
<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ubbrollsmile.gif" alt="" />
Her Ladyship Hot ShotDelete
Q:What's the difference between the Great Highland Bagpipes and the Northumbrian Pipes?
A:The Great Highland Pipes burn longer.
What exactly do I have to light on fire to get you to notice me?Delete
"but have you considered there is more to life than your eyelids?"
jointly owned by Fire_Spinning_Angel and Blu_Valley


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Basic German pancake
30 minutes. Serves 2 to 4
1 cup (4.25 ounces) flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup (½ stick) butter
Heat oven to 425 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, then beat the egg mixture into the flour. Melt the butter in a 9- to 10-inch cast-iron skillet and pour the batter into the hot pan. Bake until the pancake is puffed and golden brown, 20 to 24 minutes. Serve immediately.
Calories 311
Protein 11 grams
Carbohydrates 26 grams
Fiber 1 grams
Fat 18 grams
Saturated fat 10 grams
Cholesterol 221 mg
Sugar 2 grams
Sodium 166 mg
NOTE: Dress up the pancake as you like, perhaps with a pinch of spice or lemon zest. Serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar.


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Ovarian overproduction of androgens is a condition in which the female ovaries make too much
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
In healthy women, the ovaries and adrenal glands produce about 40 - 50% of the bodys testosterone. Both tumors of the ovaries and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause excess androgen production.
Cushings disease, an abnormality in the pituitary gland, causes excess amounts of corticosteroids, which cause masculine body changes in women. Also, tumors in the adrenal glands can cause overproduction of androgens and lead to male body characteristics in women.
- Acne
- Amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods)
- Changes in female body contours
- Decrease in breast size
- Increase in body hair in a male pattern (
hirsutism) such as on the face, chin, and abdomen
- Oily skin
- Clitoromegaly (enlargement of the clitoris)
- Deepening of the voice
- Increase in muscle mass
- Temporal balding (thinning hair and hair loss)
Signs and testsYour health care provider will perform a physical exam. Any blood and imaging tests ordered will depend on your specific symptoms, but may include:
- 17-hydroxyprogesterone test
- ACTH test
- CT scan
- DHEA blood test
- Glucose test
- Insulin test
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Prolactin (if periods are infrequent or absent) test
- Testosterone test
- Total cholesterol test
- TSH test (if there is hair loss)
Treatment depends on the problem that is causing the increased androgen production. Medications can be given to decrease hair production in patients who have excess body hair (hirsutism) or to regulate menstrual cycles. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove an ovarian or adrenal tumor.
Expectations (prognosis)
The success of the treatment depends on what caused the excess androgen production. If the condition is caused by an ovarian tumor, surgical removal of the tumor may correct the problem. Most ovarian tumors are not cancerous (benign), and will not come back after theyve been removed.
In polycystic ovary syndrome, the following can reduce symptoms caused by increased androgen levels:
- Careful monitoring
- Dietary changes
- Medications
- Regular vigorous exercise
Infertility and complications during pregnancy may occur.
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may be at increased risk for:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Uterine cancer
There is no known prevention. Maintaining a normal weight through healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce your chances of any long-term complications.
Lobo RA. Hyperandrogenism: physiology, etiology, differential diagnosis, management. In: Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, Katz VL, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2012:chap 40.
Bulun SE. The physiology and pathology of the female reproductive axis. In: Melmed S, Polonsky KS, Larsen PR, Kronenberg HM, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2011:chap 17.
Review Date:
Reviewed By:
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.


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This week on Twitter, cosplayers have been posting photos with the following theme: "If you put cosplay outfits outside the bathroom, it looks like the character is taking a bath."
Japanese bathrooms are different from Western ones. The bath and the toilet are typically separate. The bathroom is kind of like a giant shower with a tub — you stand outside the tub and wash yourself off (you are supposed to wash before sitting in the bath water.) Outside the bathroom, people tend to either fold their clothes, drape them on the washing machine, which is usually near the bath, or leave their clothes strewn about.
There has been a rash of these photos tweeted out in the past day or so. Website IT Media posted some of the photos (via Togetter), which have been popping up on Twitter.
It's cool to see lots of people online getting into the spirit and seeing if putting cosplay outfits outside the bathroom actually makes it look the characters are bathing. You know what, it kind of does.
『コスプレ衣装を風呂場に置くとキャラが入浴してるように見える』……らしい。 [Togetter via IT Media]
Top photo: Togetter


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BEACH Program Update
Contact with fecal contaminated waters can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children and the elderly may be more vulnerable to waterborne illnesses.
Stay updated about water quality at your beaches by keeping up with us on our blog Fecal Matters, on Facebook, or join our listserv.
Debby Sargeant, our BEACH Program Manager, is available at 360-407-6775 or firstname.lastname@example.com for questions.


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Dixie Fincannon has worked for the Thomasville Finance Department for 50 years. Let that information sink in for a moment.
THOMASVILLE | Dixie Fincannon has worked for the Thomasville Finance Department for 50 years. Let that information sink in for a moment.
To put it into perspective, Fincannon, a native of Wilkes County, has worked for Thomasville for 31 percent of the time it has existed as a city. Additionally, Thomasville City Manager Kelly Craver was 5 years old when Fincannon first took her seat in City Hall.
Per Thomasville Mayor Joe Bennett, her tenure with the city is the lengthiest of all time.
What's even more impressive is that she's not done yet — she's not retiring.
"I see no reason to," Fincannon said Tuesday during a celebratory party honoring her service to the city. "Why would I leave such a good place?"
After graduating from Ashmore Business College in 1962, Fincannon earned a job as a switchboard operator with the city a year later. She was hired by former city manager Peter Lydens, one of the many former colleagues, friends and family present at the party at the Ball Park Community Center.
Fincannon went on to work accounts for a variety of city departments, including parks and recreation and the fire department.
"When I was at Ashmore, I hated accounting and said, 'Please don't let me end up in accounting,'" Fincannon said. "But I did, and I am so thankful for it."
Thomasville Finance Director Tony Jarrett, who has worked with the city for 32 years, has supervised Fincannon during most of that time.
"She's consistently good," Jarrett said. "She's punctual and 50 years later, she still believes in punctuality."
Jarrett said being in finance, attention to detail is of upmost importance — something Fincannon never lost sight of.
"We are fortunate that we are not just coworkers but good friends," Jarrett said.
And that feeling is mutual. Fincannon, who grew up in Mills Home in Thomasville and had adopted parents from Moore County, said her family is at the church and with the city.
"It's been the most wonderful place to work, and I thank God that I have had good health and such great colleagues," Fincannon said. "I've gotten to meet and love a lot of people."
Thomasville Mayor Joe Bennett has been next-door neighbors with Fincannon for 37 years.
"I just can't say enough good about her and her dedication as an employee serving the citizens," Bennett said. "She loves her work, loves her job and loves working with the city."
In today's economic climate and a shortage for jobs, Fincannon said it's not as easy to switch from job to job, as some may have used to do.
"It takes patience and just like in any job, you think, 'Is this worth it?', sometimes, but you learn to mature and love it," Fincannon said.
Nash Dunn can be reached at 249-3981, ext. 227, or at email@example.com.


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While any woman can develop PMDD, the following may be at an increased risk:
Other possible risk factors include lower education and cigarette smoking
Talk with your healthcare provider for more information.
Symptoms of PMDD appear during the week before menstruation and end within a few days after your period starts. These symptoms disrupt daily living tasks. Symptoms of PMDD are so severe that women have trouble functioning at home, at work, and in relationships during this time. This is markedly different than other times during the month.
The following are the most common symptoms of PMDD:
Psychological symptoms
Fluid retention
Respiratory problems
Eye complaints
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Skin problems
Neurologic and vascular symptoms
The symptoms of PMDD may look like other conditions or medical problems, such as a thyroid condition, depression, or an anxiety disorder. Always talk with a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
Aside from a complete medical history and physical and pelvic exam, there are very few diagnostic tests. Because there are mental health symptoms, your healthcare provider may want you to be evaluated for mental health concerns. In addition, your healthcare provider may ask that you keep a journal or diary of your symptoms for several months. In general, to diagnose PMDD the following symptoms must be present:
PMDD is a serious, chronic condition that does need treatment. Several of the following treatment approaches may help relieve or decrease the severity of PMDD symptoms:
For some women, the severity of symptoms increases over time and lasts until menopause. For this reason, a woman may need treatment for an extended time. Medicine dosage may change throughout the course of treatment.
PMDD is a much more severe form of t premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
The exact cause of PMDD is not known.
Stay Informed.
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Provoke Radio, a Jesuit-sponsored program focusing on the work of "ordinary people doing extraordinary things" in the realm of faith-based social justice and peace, ended a four-and-a-half-year run with its final new program April 26.
CNS originally blogged about the program last November.
"We're simply out of funding," the program's writer and producer, Claire Hartman, told CNS. "We were sponsored by the Jesuits and they are no longer able to fund it. It was a sign of the times."
The final program looks at the L'Arche communities, founded by Jean Vanier in France in 1964, and how people with and without disabilities develop loving, caring relationships.
Hosted by Jesuit Father Stephen Spahn, associate pastor of Holy Trinity Church in Washington, the program had been distributed to a slowly growing number of radio stations from New Jersey to California. But in today's tight economy the order's Maryland province ended its funding and the U.S. conference of Jesuits decided not to pick up the cost of the program, Hartman said.
"It's a disappointment," she said. "It filled a real niche. I think it was a great show that bridged the gap between what we're taught and to live your faith in action."
Hartman said Provoke Radio will continue to exist online for at least a few more months. Many of the 17 stations nationwide will continue to broadcast past programs. The full run of 96 programs is archived for downloading.


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In the face of stiff competition from the carbon fibre brigade, Van Nicholas have stuck steadfastly to their titanium ethos for 2013.
One of Van Nic's longest serving designs, the smooth riding Zephyr, has received a significant makeover for next year.
The bike is now press-fit compatible and has a reworked head tube, plus dual compatibility between mechanical and electronic drivetrains. We're pretty excited about it, and are looking to test as soon as we can.
The Zephyr is priced from 2,902 Euros for a Shimano 105 equipped bike. The frame is also Di2 compatible with an exclusive lightweight build (5,390 Euros) thanks to dual-use drillings throughout.
The Zephyr is Van Nic's take on a sportive machine
Van Nic's top-flight bike, the Astraeus, looks every inch the road race bike, with a cleverly worked titanium frame mated to an ultra-stiff fork.
The frame is built using hydroformed titanium tubing, with a tapered head tube that's then cleverly machined to further pare back the weight. The industrial front end makes the bike distinct from the competition.
The Astraeus frameset is available from 2,499 Euros, with complete bikes ranging from 4,240 Euros for an Ultegra equipped bike to 7,691 Euros for a Dura-Ace Di2 model. Van Nicholas also offer the Astraeus as a tailor-made (custom) frame for 3,394 Euros.
Beautiful welding on the high-end Astraeus
The new Ventus is Van Nic's most affordable offering for 2013. With a SRAM Apex complete bike available for 1,899 Euros, it looks to be a decent alternative to carbon offerings at around the same price.
The Ventus is an affordable titanium bike but still looks great


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"And when they ask us what we're doing, you can say, We're remembering...." (Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451)
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Sure, Martha Byrne (Lily/ex-Rose; ATWT), Julianne Moore (ex-Frannie/Sabrina; ATWT), Ellen Wheeler (ex-Marley/Vicky; AW), Anne Heche (ex-Marley/Vicky; AW) and Jensen Buchanan (still ex-Marley/Vicky; AW) can rack up the Emmy noms/wins for playing a dual role on their respective shows.
But through the miracle of the PGP/AOL Classic Soap Channel, actor Kevin Conroy is currently playing two roles on two different shows.
That's right, in the circa 1980 Another World episodes, he's innocent, good guy cop/lawyer Jerry Grove, husband of that trashy Blaine. But the innocent good guy cop/lawyer has a whopper of a secret (don't they always?), that kind of taints the innocent and the good parts when it finally comes out (doesn't it always?)
Meanwhile, over in 1984 Search for Tomorrow, Kevin is Chase Kendall. Bad boy, womanizer, rock singer/music producer who also has a secret. Seems the bad boy honestly fell in love with his twin brother's girl while the brother was presumed dead. But now the brother's back. So what's a bad boy to do, but pretend it didn't mean a thing and push the girl back into his brother's arms? Even as his really-not-so-bad heart is breaking.
After AW and SFT, Kevin went on to appear in Dynasty as Bart Fallmont, the politician who ended up riding off into the sunset with Steven Carrington (though Kevin didn't play him in the reunion movie; I know, it's confusing).
But Kevin's best-known role to date is as the voice of Batman in Batman: The Animated Series since 1992. Currently, he has played Batman more times than Adam West, Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, and Christian Bale combined.
And now, your question of the day: What's your favorite soap opera dual role?
I, personally, am partial to Santa Barbara's Lane Davies when he was Mason the uptight lawyer and Sonny the free-wheeling cowboy. (I know, I know, technically not a dual role since it was a split personality story, not a true, two character story. But it's my blog and I get to set the rules). For a more traditional choice, I also liked Paul Leyden as Simon and Donovan on ATWT, David Canary as Adam and Stuart on AMC, and, for a laugh, Eileen Davidson as all those psychos and hicks and nuns on DOOL.
Posted by Alina Adams at 6:25 AM
2 comments:
- C.B.D. said...
My favorites were Ellen Wheeler as Marley/Vicky on AW and Cindy/Karen on AMC (she's done it twice and won Emmys both times).
- TV Lover said...
I have to put in Kate Collins as Natalie/Janet 'from another planet' on AMC. I was taping that show and rushing home from school for months!
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Gloriously awful student ideasComments
SEK and his class are brainstorming ideas for their end-of-quarter rhetoric-in-practice project.
SEK: Given the fact that we studied Fellowship of the Ring and Game of Thrones, I could easily see something like the "Sean Bean Death Reel" being a viable final project.
STUDENT #1: What if we made a perfect copy of the One Ring out of metal?
SEK: Nope. You can't turn in anything you bought from Skymall.
STUDENT #2: Can we do Reverse Game of Thrones?
SEK: A Throne of Games?
STUDENT #2: Like we get a regular guy to play Tyrion and hire little people to play everybody el—
SEK: No! No reversing Game of Thrones! That's unacceptable on so many levels I don't even know where to begin.


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This article was printed from mlb, originally published .
Read more news at: https://www.mlb.com/redsox/news
Tickets for select 2014 Red Sox home games and "Sox Pax" go on sale December 14
Online Registration Begins Today for Chance to Attend 11th Annual "Christmas at Fenway"
BOSTON, MA - The Boston Red Sox today announced that "Sox Pax" and single-game tickets for April and May games in 2014 will go on sale Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m., and registration for the chance to attend the 11th annual Christmas at Fenway event begins today.
"Sox Pax," presented by MasterCard, are packs of four games with a variety of game and seat options, including Interleague games, summer weekend games, and matchups against the New York Yankees. Single-game tickets will include all April and May home games with the exceptions of Opening Day, Patriots Day, and Yankees games.
Additionally, 'Sox Saver' games will be offered as part of this sale. These select April and May games will be offered at special reduced prices ranging from 8 to 50 percent off the base price as a result of the new variable pricing structure.
This year, each of the 12 "Sox Pax" will be revealed over the next 12 days, starting today, on the Red Sox' Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts. The 12 "Sox Pax" will be posted to redsox.com once revealed.
Sox Pax will be available online at redsox.com and at the 11th Annual Christmas at Fenway event held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Fenway Park. There will be a limit of three "Sox Pax" of up to four tickets each per person.
For single game tickets, fans can purchase up to 12 tickets per transaction online at redsox.com, by phone at 888-REDSOX6, and at the 11th Annual Christmas at Fenway event. Single-game tickets are versus the Brewers, April 5-6; the Rangers, April 7-9; the Orioles, April 18-20; the Rays, April 29-30, May 1; the A's, May 2-4; the Reds, May 6-7; the Tigers, May 16-18; and the Blue Jays, May 20-22.
Fans who require ADA accessible seating may also call 877-REDSOX9. Hearing impaired fans may call the Red Sox TTY line at (617) 226-6644.
Registration for the chance to attend Christmas at Fenway begins today, Tuesday, December 3, and continues through Monday, December 9, at noon on redsox.com. The annual event gives randomly selected fans from a pool of registrants a chance to enjoy holiday festivities at the ballpark and guarantees the opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2014 season.
Christmas at Fenway will include discussions with Red Sox officials and interviews with current players and legends. Attendees will be randomly selected throughout the day for special prizes and giveaway experiences.


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New Hampshire Thanks You, Mr. Bush
Actually, Pierce is generally not listed as the worst, but rather one of the worst -- James Buchanan, Millard Filmore, Warren G. Harding, and a few others make all the lists, and when the lists are ranked, Pierce is seldom number one. But still. Mr. Bush, we thank you for nudging his legacy a little bit farther from the bottom.
Is Franklin Pierce due for a promotion? Pierce, the only New Hampshire man elected to the White House, is a perennial nominee for Worst President Ever. But as that office's current occupant finds his own reputation under attack from many historians and the public, Pierce could move up a notch from the bottom of the presidential rankings -- a boost Pierce partisans say is long past due.
"When I speak to groups, somebody always asks, 'How does it feel to know your man is no longer the worst?' " said Peter Wallner, author of a recent two-volume biography of Pierce. "I take a little bit of pleasure in the fact that (President George) Bush is viewed by them as worse than Pierce."
It's also interesting to note the maiden name of President Bush's mother, Barbara, is Pierce. She is a fourth cousin four times removed of Franklin Pierce. Mr. Bush has been making the rounds lately, "polishing his legacy" (excrement can be polished?), blaming everybody else for his failures, and perhaps now, citing his mother's ancestry, he could add one more excuse: "I couldn't help myself! It's in my genes!"


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Two Maryland Transportation Authority Police officers were injured while stopped by the side of Interstate 95 in Elkridge on Wednesday night, after their cars were struck by a motorist who has been charged with drunken driving.
Sgt. Jonathan Green, a police spokesman, said an officer responded after a license plate reader at the southbound Fort McHenry Tunnel put out a stolen-vehicle alert for a car with Virginia tags. He said an officer made a traffic stop of a 2007 Ford Taurus near the Route 100 interchange and was soon joined by a corporal.
As the three cars were lined up along I-95, a 2004 Nissan pickup driven by Tyrone Darby Jr. of the 1200 block of N. Longwood St. in Baltimore rammed the rear end of the patrol vehicle at the end of the line, Green said.
The spokesman said the truck struck with such force that the patrol vehicle pushed the other police car into the traffic lane and continued forward, striking the Taurus.
Green said one of the officers, the corporal, pushed the driver of the Taurus out of the way of the oncoming vehicle and likely saved the man's life. He said the corporal was struck by the car and pushed into the travel lane, suffering a leg fracture.
The other officer, who made the initial stop, dragged the corporal out of the travel lane but sprained his leg, according to Green.
"We have, as far as I'm concerned, two heroes here," he said.
Both officers were taken to the Maryland Shock Trauma Center. The officer with the sprain was treated and released, while the corporal with the broken leg was still being treated Thursday, Green said. Neither officer was identified.
Darby, 34, was not injured. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and possession of marijuana, Green said.
The driver of the Taurus was released after officers determined that he was recovering a car that had been stolen in Fairfax, Va., and taken to Harlem, N.Y. Green said the stolen-car database had not been updated to reflect the recovery of the car.


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Introduction of LY Series Drum chipper
Drum Chipper is one kind of special equipment for producing wood chips, widely used in the raw material preparing process in the factories of flakeboard, fiberboard, papermaking and wood chips making plant. Small drum type wood chipper is the best equipment for factory's laboratory preparing material.
Raw material for Drum type wood chipper cutting is mainly small trail wood, lumbering remainds ( such as branches, twigs, tress pallets etc) and woodworking remainds ( such as slab, plank, log core, waste veneer etc). It also can be used to chip non-lignin raw material (such as flax pole, bulrush, bamboo etc).
Characteristics of wood chipper machine:
1. Structure of main machine is beautiful,easy installation and little space taking.
2. Driving wheel in feed inlet synchronous run together with the feed wheel in main body.
3. Snap-in feedstock is stronger and more powerfull.
4. Control system is composed of hydraulic and frequency conversion,reduce the maintenance cost effectively.
5. Adopting imported high quality blade which greatly improve the work efficiency.
6. Both forward and reverse are accepted for feeding to avoid the material being got stuck .
7. The hydraulic cover can be tore down more easily,saving time and manpower more peace of mind.
8. Input and output adopts full automatic control,ensure both sides work synchronously carry on.
9. Wear-resistant sharp alloy tool, reliable advanced and to enhance its service life.
10. Wearing parts low-consumption, low running cost.
11.Hydraulic system: From the pump to oil cylinders, the cover can be opened, it is easy to change the blade. It can raise the upper feed roller in maintenance, it is easy to adjust the space between fly cutter and knife.
12.Two or three knives are installed on knife roller with specialized in manufacturing, the fly cutter is fixed on the knife roller through the bolt. According to the different thickness of raw materials by cutting, feed roller assembly by hydraulic system can fluctuate within a certain scope. Cutting down the qualified materials through the screen mesh from bottom of large discharge will cutting again in the inner of this machine.
Details of our wood chippers
Work process of LYGX Series Drum chipper
The raw materials (such as the log, branches, big pieces) feeding through the feeding equipment. Then go through the knives roller to cut into small wood pieces.
Main structure of LYGX Series Drum chipper
Drum wood chipper is composed of base, blade roller, upper and nether (below) feeding organization, feeding equipment, hydraulic press cushion system.
Finished wood chips


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Sunday, July 10, 2011
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - Luxury Cars Modifications
Chevrolet did a very good car, sporty impression that the caused of this car was already apparent, although not in the modification. especially in this picture is already on the modification of the car so well. sure you will really enjoy the photo modification of the Chevrolet Corvette. full black color on this Chevrolet car body, dark color is dominant on the color of the body. Chevrolet Corvette tires with this menggunkan diamter 20 "x12″. More you can see the photos.
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BURLINGTON � Medical laboratory operator Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings said Friday that its net income slipped in the second quarter and lowered its guidance for the full year.
Its revenue rose 3 percent but the company said the advance was constrained by reduced Medicare payments, steep federal budget cuts in April, and delays and denials of coverage by some health care payers after new payment codes were introduced.
Its shares slipped by midday.
LabCorp said its net income fell to $151.9 million, or $1.62 per share, in the second quarter ended June 30, down from $153.3 million, or $1.56 per share, a year earlier. Excluding one-time amortization and restructuring costs, LabCorp said its earnings amounted to $1.80 per share. That matched expectations of analysts surveyed by FactSet.
Revenue rose 3 percent to $1.47 billion from $1.42 billion. Analysts were expecting $1.46 billion in revenue.
LabCorp said testing volumes rose 5 percent during the quarter, but revenue per request for testing fell 1.8 percent. It said testing for drugs of abuse increased.
The company expects to earn between $6.90 and $7.10 per share for the year, down from $6.85 to $7.15 per share.
LabCorp said earlier this year that reduced Medicare payments will cut its annual net income by about 35 cents per share, and it maintained that view on Friday.
Analysts are forecasting earnings of $7.08 per share.
The company still expects its annual revenue to grow 2 to 3 percent, which implies a total of $5.78 billion to $5.84 billion. Analysts project $5.79 billion in revenue on average.
Shares of LabCorp lost 74 cents to $96.68 in midday trading Friday. That is still nearer the high end of their 52-week range of $82.15 to $101.69.


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Forward Thinking in the Wireless World
by Amy Lignor
The demands and needs of today's "wireless world" is constantly changing and must be met with forward thinking companies to enhance service now as well as in the future. Upon reviewing one such company, Airborne Wireless Network (AWN), you are learning more about a company that is, quite literally, creating a virtual "super-highway in the sky" to surpass the markets expectations to meet these demands.
Airborne Wireless Network's concept is actually brilliant and simple. By utilizing commercial aircraft, as both receivers and routers, a meshed network of digital communication is created – the likes of which has never been seen. The system is easy to first install and execute with airline partners, but can be upgraded and serviced efficiently as well.
First it is important to understand the on-board hardware that will be installed on an airplane to create the "meshed network". The hardware will be able to support aircraft to aircraft awareness and real-time monitoring of the system. All participating aircraft in the Airborne Wireless Network, will have the ability to provide all the positions of the aircraft within a centimeter accuracy! Once this incredible "Infinitus Super-Highway" is up and operational, it will have the potential to improve the situational awareness of the "Avionics for NextGen Mandate" the aviation community has strived to achieve.
The importance of the "Avionics for NextGen Conference" is key for recognizing current and future technologies that will enhance the aviation community. The conference brought together hundreds of professionals and leaders from the aviation community. A key goal was to take an in-depth look into the technical aspects of NextGen and offer valuable perspectives on how NextGen standards are determined and can be achieved, with these key aviation professionals coming together, they were able to explore the technologies driving the future of aviation. Virtually all aspects of aviation were addressed, including equipment requirements, solutions to challenges that arise with the implementation of NextGen technology and much more. Also, a close examination of the ability of different aircraft types to comply with the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) In and Out mandates, which is exactly what the "Infinitus" fully-meshed network in the sky will achieve.
The reasoning behind the "Infinitus Super-Highway" is a great deal like the principle behind the often-used, Occam's razor. The simplest answer and solution to a problem is usually the right one. Airborne Wireless Network has done just that. The future is here today!
By installing small, lightweight equipment in airplanes to send signals that can be picked up and retransmitted by other planes, makes for a network that is easy to use, provides better service, easy to implement, maintain and eliminates problems.
Airborne Wireless Network's "proof of concept" flights proven and provided valuable data regarding the potential of the network. Test flights proved high-speed data could be sent successfully from aircraft-to-aircraft, aircraft-to-ground, and vice versa, proving that the creation of the "Infinitus Super-Highway" is more than viable. By using this airborne "meshed network", aircraft location can be pinpointed, allowing all aircraft to share vital flight-data. Plus, with Airborne Wireless Network using aircraft world-wide at one time, this execution would create over 35,000 "satellites" crossing the globe at all times.
Simply stated, Airborne Wireless Network and their "forward thinking" in the world of digital technology is unmatched.
To learn more about Airborne Wireless Network, partners, programs and examine additional data regarding the superior benefits this new "superhighway in the sky" will deliver today and in the future, visit http://www.airbornewirelessnetwork.com
Original Source: Baret News Wire.com


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"The Harmony Game" tells the story behind Simon and Garfunkel's last studio album -- "Bridge Over Troubled Water" -- which has its legacy shrouded in rock n' roll mythology with legendary tales of inspiration, innovation and separation. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel share the journey in their own words and reflect back on its impact 40 years later.
Also featured in the documentary are several of the duo's collaborators from the period: Roy Halee (co-producer/engineer), Hal Blaine (drums), Joe Osborn (bass guitar), Jimmie Haskell (arranager), Mort Lewis (manager), and actor Charles Grodin, director of "Songs Of America."


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Isnt there option c)? I certainly wouldnt dismiss your response, Thomas. The intent of my question was to really learn about a region that I haven't given a fair shake and one I have read little about regarding quality equal to Germany or Alsace. [sarcasm] And being the regional shill that you are, I don't plan on straight out believing you [/sarcasm] Which brings me to option c) and that is to make a more concerted effort to try to disprove my notion of NY wines being just ok.Thomas wrote:You can believe me or you can pooh, pooh my answer, but it is not just my opinion--it is an opinion with a basis.
That leads me to the next question. What would be a producer, preferably with reasonable availability as I live in a criminal state, that you would recommend. In Alsace, one can point beginners and experts alike to producers such as Trimbach, Weinbach, Z-H. In Mosel there are consistent producers aplenty such as Christoffel, Prum and the like. Where would you point a NY FL novice who is in search of a producer that exemplifies the region?


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Passage to India/
Chhatrapat Shivaji Terminus, formerly Victoria Terminus
Elle Decor, October 2007 has featured Mumbai, India in their "elle decor goes to" section. It includes all of the must see, eat, shop, and do that Mumbai has to offer. It seems that everyone who's anyone is traveling here. It is a spectacular article. Here are a few photos to wet your appetite!
The Gateway of India
The Intercontinental Hotel rooftop
House and Garden , October 2007, has showcased Cartier's breathtaking new line of jewelry which takes it's inspiration from jewelry designed for the Princes of India. Jacqueline Karachi, head of Cartier's high end jewelry line has captured the art deco period in the new Inde Mysterieuse Collection:
This spectacular tank watch is vintage circa 1929 and has an emerald watchface. Wouldn't you just do about anything for this watch?! The carved jewels are modeled after fruits and berries and hence are known as Tutti Frutti. This style was most famously created for Daisy Fellowes.
This vintage Cartier Handbag sets off two Tutti Frutti brooches from the new collection.
Tiger ring, platinum, and gold with yellow diamonds and onyx.
Domino's October 2007 issue also has embraced India devoting their entertaining section to a party designed with table settings by Waris Ahluwalia. This India-born, NYC raised designer is behind the House of Waris jewelry collection. Waris makes an appearance in Wes Anderson's new film The Darjeeling Limited. (More on that later!) The India connections just keep getting more and more interesting!
You will have to check out Domino for the scoop on all of the lovlies like these chair back garlands. I'm loving these!
I feel like I am in India just looking at this table!
And when the meal is over, place to relax!
There has been much buzz about the upcoming new film by Wes Anderson: The Darjeeling Limited starring Andrien Brody, Owen Wilson and Jason Schwartzman. An adventure about three brothers who bond during a train trip across India, this film is getting alot of positive press. I'm gonna catch it for the scenery alone!
Catch more fun info about the movie on Brilliant Asylum's blog! For that matter, just catch Brilliant Asylum's blog cuz it's so very cool.
And no post about the beautiful exotic India would be complete without mention of two of my favorite blogs: An Indian Summer and Rang Decor. They are both filled with wonderful images of interiors, furniture, art, hotels, and homes of India. I feel like I am on a mini-vacation every time I visit. Here are a few images from their fantastic blogs:
Both of these photos are from Rang Decor
Have I got you curious? Would you like to hear more? I highly recommend these novels to help take you away to India, if only in your imagination:
Happy travels!


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Kristi Britt-Stearns is vice president of local sales for Muzak, which creates custom music experiences for the world's most admired brands, including The Circuit, a high-energy mix of dance, R&B, pop and rock that maintains a minimum 132 beats per minute. For more information, e-mail email@example.com, call 704-972-7958 or visit www.music.muzak.com.
Picture this: You're driving home after a long day at work, tired and stressed. Now imagine that your favorite new song comes on—and suddenly your stress starts to disappear. You're feeling re-energized, and you're moving to the beat.
It's no secret that music has the same effect on your clients. Music can help improve your clients' workouts by helping them rev up their energy and maintain their personal drive, whether they're fitting in 30 minutes of strength or blasting through 60 minutes of cardio.
But what types of music help the most? Do you need a different sound for each part of your facility? And what can you expect to achieve when it all comes together? Consider just a few factors as you think about your music experience, and you and your clients will see the benefits quickly.
Get to the Heart of It
Heart rate is fitness terminology that's on everyone's must-know list. Especially since heart rate monitors are becoming more effective and less expensive, plenty of cardio enthusiasts are measuring success by tracking their heart rate. And everyone is looking for an exercise approach that helps raise the heart rate quickly and maintain it over time.
Luckily for fitness professionals, heart rate has a workout partner: beats per minute (BPM). Every song, from a soft melody to a high-energy club track, can be measured by BPM. And it's easy to use a song's BPM to gauge how effective it may be as part of a workout music program.
The first place to start within most fitness facilities is the group exercise room. When members are on the elliptical, clients often rock out to their personal playlists. But during group exercise, they need to be able to hear an instructor's commands. And if those prompts are in sync with a higher-BPM song, participants will be boxing, jumping and stepping fast —and their heart rates will be climbing faster, too.
So what's the magic number? A BPM of 132 is widely regarded as a minimum standard. Some fitness professionals prefer a higher minimum BPM, but as long as your music ranges from 132 to 170 BPM, your clients will be able to reach and maintain their target heart rate throughout their exercise session.
Think Outside the (Kick) Box
Your group ex studios may be one of the focal points of your facility, but don't forget the other areas where music can boost your clients' energy. Think about all of your facility's amenities: the lobby, juice bar or café, child care center, even your locker rooms. Because these areas aren't so heart rate-focused, you can design music experiences that include a wider variety of tempos and styles.
Start with your lobby or entrance. This is the ideal place to include some high-energy dance tracks that don't meet the minimum 132 BPM standard but are lively enough to get clients pumped up the moment they walk in the door—and get their workouts off to a great start. Keep the same idea in mind when choosing music for your weight room. Invigorating rock, pop and R&B can help clients push themselves to work in one more set.
Your weights area also is a great place to balance the needs of different users. While weight rooms were once dominated by power-lifting men, the benefits of weightlifting are appreciated by more women. If your music program includes a lot of hard rock and the like, the experience may intensify the intimidation many women feel when approaching the weight room. Try focusing on accessible music, such as 1980s hits, college rock or funk to help everyone feel welcome.
Don't Forget the Details
Once your music experience has a solid foundation, it's time to get down to details, such as the seasonality of your music experience. Just like your seasonal marketing campaigns, a few tweaks to your music program can reflect the changing time of year. Your clients' goals and workout expectations can vary dramatically from season to season, especially when it comes to outdoor temperatures.


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Wow, another great week for the market, as I remain firmly in the "shocked" category.
However, there's usually a difference between what I think will happen and how I trade, and as I noted the past few weeks, I had been a buyer into the weakness.
Continue Reading Below
That said, I didn't expect to be a seller so soon, and of the 10 or 12 positions I acquired, I've sold all but one.
Next up, I'm expecting the market to move sideways. But, given how the Fed isn't going away, my assumption is that move will be short-lived until the next thrust up.
While the market was moving up, some stocks saw a sharp drop on Friday. Frankly, I think they're both buys.
The first is UPS (NYSE:UPS). I actually did buy that late in the day and now look for a rebound.
I also think Boeing (NYSE:BA) is a buy, although I held off for now. (I usually only buy stock in companies I use on a regular basis. Given that I fly about once a year, it's not really in my wheel house.)
Another up week next week, or a summer pause? We'll see next Friday.


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Our Art Deco setting with hand-painted murals and rich woods offers a stunning backdrop for your very special event. Choose a menu featuring our famous Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef, hand-carved and served tableside from gleaming silver carts or a cocktail reception with an array of delicious hors d'oeuvres. We also offer a selection of specially designed menus for any service style or our award-winning Executive Chef, David Simmons, will assist you in creating a customized menu.
Our Marketing Manager and wedding coordinator, Michelle Rizzo, will assist you in all aspects of planning and organizing your event. She will attend to every detail of the food and festivities to ensure a lifetime of wonderful memories.
From Engagement Party and Shower, to Rehearsal Dinner and Reception, our dedicated staff will manage every detail so you feel like a guest at your own event.
Whether you're planning a grand affair for 200 or an intimate celebration for 20, you and your guests will enjoy the elegant decor, impeccable service and world-class dining that have made Lawry's a legend since 1938.
Let us to make your wedding a truly memorable experience. Contact Lawry's The Prime Rib today.
Private party menu prices are subject to change.
Three stylish dining rooms offer maximum privacy with flexible seating that can be adapted for groups of 25 to 200.
A spectacular silver domed ceiling, fabulous hand-painted mural and Art Deco accents create a stunning atmosphere for luncheon parties of up to 200.
The hand-painted Art Deco inspired mural and fireplace set the theme for this intimate, private room accented by a view of our world-class wine cellar. It seats up to 36 guests.
This colorful room with its wine displays, inviting fireplace and contemporary artwork is perfect for parties of up to 36 guests.


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Reuters: "Mali's interim government has removed General Amadou Sanogo, who led a coup last year, as head of a military committee tasked with reforming the West African country's armed forces, a government statement said." For more on Sanogo's promotion to general, see here.
On Friday, Mali's President-elect Ibrahim Boubacar Keita visited Cote d'Ivoire (French).
Magharebia: "Algeria is offering pardons to thousands of armed extremists, provided their hands are unstained with citizens' blood…Army units are distributing leaflets and flyers in Tlemcen, Sidi Bel Abbes and Ain Témouchent, urging extremists to lay down arms and benefit from the 2005 Charter for Peace and National Reconciliation, Ennahar daily reported this week."
Imams in Touba, Senegal (French) complain of a lack of water, electricity, and other amenities, and cast blame on political authorities.
Reuters: "Nigerians Seek Refuge in Niger."
Moulid Hujale: "My Journey Back to Somalia."
What else is happening?