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To register for programs, please call 904.899.6038.
6 to 8 P.M. | Bijoux Parisiens: French Jewelry from the Petit Palais, Paris PDL OpeningLearn More >
Free | Ponce de León Society donors only | RSVP requested
Please join us for a reception with live music, cocktails, small bites, and remarks. This exclusive event is for Ponce de León Society Donors only and their guests. For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6025.


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SharpTarget SEO Pay-Per-Click Campaigns
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Making Ads is not just restricted to Google Adwords. All major search engines, including Yahoo have their own Advertise making portfolio which is called Yahoo! Search Marketing –just that allows users to create advertisements in Yahoo!
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Microsoft Ad Center
Bing, too being one of the popular search engines, has its own Ad Center where we can make paid Advertisements for making the ads to come up on the search result page. Bing Ad Center allows some of the same key features like other search engines.
Bid and rate management, ad location, visibility as per the search queries – optimization as per the requirement of the advertisements appearing on the Bing results page are some of the key features. Except for some changes in the policies – Bing Ad Center does the same as other Advertisement portals do.
We, at SharpTarget, believe in achieving in all areas of paid search marketing due to which we have a holistic team that specializes for Advertisements and also do the same for Microsoft Ad Center. Contact us for improving your search engine look!

subset: commoncrawl


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|Young people don't always do what they're told, but if they can pull it off and do something wonderful, sometimes they escape punishment.
–Hermes, to Percy Jackson, in The Sea of Monsters.
Hermes (Ερμής in Ancient Greek ) is the Greek god of roads, speed, messengers, commerce, travel, thieves, merchants, and mail deliverers. His Roman counterpart is Mercury. He is the father of Luke Castellan, Chris Rodriguez, and the Stoll Brothers. His symbol is the caduceus. Hermes was portrayed by Dylan Neal in The Lightning Thief and is set to be portrayed by Nathan Fillion in The Sea of Monsters.
Hermes was born sometime after the first Titan War to Zeusand a nymph named Maia. He matured rapidly and within a few minutes of his birth stole the cattle of Apollo and invented the lyre. He even thought of a clever way to cover up his crime: tying bundles of grass to the cows' feet and leading them backward out of the pasture to make it look like something had been led into the pasture, but not out.
Despite this, Apollo found out and went to Zeus for justice. When brought before his father, Hermes attempted to charm Zeus into letting him go by telling him he was just an innocent new born baby. Undeceived, but amused by the child's boldness, Zeus instead forced him to compensate Apollo, which Hermes did by presenting him with his lyre. Hermes also traded the shepherd's pipe (another invention of his) to Apollo in exchange for his golden staff and knowledge of the art of prophecy. When he came of age, Hermes was made the messenger of the gods.
As the messenger of gods Hermes would often serve as the intermediary between the gods and the mortal world. He aidedOdysseus against Circe and told Calypso to either let him go or face the wrath of Zeus. During the Trojan War he sided with the Trojans and delivered Zeus's order to return Hector's body to his father. Also in the Trojan War Hermes and Apollo teamed up to help guide the arrow that killed Achilles and Hermes helped Helen escape with the rest of the citizens of Troy when they were over run by the Greek armies.
In other stories, Hermes gave a pair of his winged sandals to Perseus when Perseus went to kill Medusa. In some tales, he freed Zeus after the latter was initially defeated by Typhon and freed Ares from his imprisonment by the Alodai among numerous other feats.
Percy Jackson and the OlympiansEditEdit
The Sea of MonstersEditEdit
He appears to Percy Jackson on the beach where he motivates the young demigod into going on a quest, despite the fact Tantalus denied his request. The god also lends some help to Percy and his friends by supplying them with some handy magical items such as a thermos, which acts as a compass and releases winds from the four corners of the earth, and some magical vitamins. The real reason behind Hermes' actions is the hope that Percy will bring Luke, one of his numerous sons, back from the side of Kronos. Later, when Hermes brings Percy a letter from his father, Percy says that he's sorry that Luke wouldn't listen to him, and that they ended up trying to kill each other. Hermes comforts Percy, and says that there is still time for Luke to change his mind, that "Families are messy, and immortal families are eternally messy", and there isn't much anyone can do about it. He seems to want Percy to defy Tantalus because he may have thought Percy could bring Luke to his senses.
The Titan's CurseEditEdit
When Percy is tried by the Twelve Olympians, he defends Percy and asks the other gods who were in favor of not disintegrating him. When Apollo tries to do a haiku he interrupts and says that they should move onto the next topic. He voted in favor of keeping Percy alive. During the Olympian celebrations, Hermes has a conversation with Percy, but is interrupted by a call on his caduceus.
The Last Olympian EditEdit
Hermes gets angry with Annabeth because she wouldn't run off with Luke, and Hermes is afraid that Luke won't have a chance now. Percy gets angry at him and asks him that if he loves Luke so much, why wasn't he around when Luke was a kid instead of abandoning him, letting Luke become angry at him and the other Olympians. Hermes is furious at the implication that he had abandoned Luke and forgot about him, he and Percy do not speak again until Luke dies, when Percy apologizes for his words.
Hermes forgives Percy, but is still grieving over his son. When the Fates take Luke's body, he gives him a final blessing and kisses his son on the forehead. When Percy forces the gods to swear that they will claim their children by age thirteen, Hermes gives Percy a list of his children outside of Camp Half-Blood and asks him to personally escort them to the camp; Percy promises that he will.
It is stated that one of his duties is to monitor interactions between the divine and mortal worlds and help mortals rationalize these interactions. This is because he is the messenger between the divine and mortal worlds. He seems bitter about this because he did not receive the glory and worship that the other gods had told him that he would get.
The Heroes of OlympusEditEdit
The Lost HeroEditEdit
Hephaestus mentioned that Hermes is bored at home due to Zeus' ban that no Iris messages, visions, and dreams are being sent so he has nothing to deliver. When Jason, Leo, and Piper are in Detroit, they stumble upon a family of cyclopes made up of Ma Gasket and her sons. The trio talk about how they had just eaten a child of Mercury, one of Hermes' children from Camp Jupiter.
A Caduceus owned by HermesIn contrast to many of the other Olympians, Hermes is much more reasonable and helpful than the other major Olympian gods with a greater understanding of mortals. He is not prone to the overt arrogance of some like Zeus or Ares nor the character quirks like Apollo or Aphrodite. Part of this may be due to part of his job being to help mortals rationalize divine events giving him a greater understanding of things beyond himself. He is shown to care a great deal for his children and to be far more accepting of others. Both traits not found as common among the major Olympians. His visits are often beneficial to gods and demigods and often helps them out though often this is at the request of another god or personal motivations. He tends to be one of the more clever gods as he tricked Argus into falling asleep and outsmarted Apollo when he was a child.
He can get very angry when crossed or when someone implies he does not care about his children. However, he takes his duties as a god seriously and will not breach them, even to save his own children since not even he can defy the fates and to do so would make things worse. All in all, he is by far one of the more reasonable and beneficial gods.
He is described as appearing to resemble a middle-aged man with an athletic figure-slim and fit with salt-and-pepper hair, as a jogger and in his original form, black curly hair, elfish features, and a sly grin. He has been known to wear nylon running shorts and New York City Marathon T-shirt while jogging, an outfit similar to a mailman's when delivering mail with a pith helmet which sprout wings, and a suit. He carries a cell phone which turns into a caduceus. He has been known to sport winged shoes, as said in the books.
Mercury, Roman counterpart of HermesHermes can change into his Roman counterpart of Mercury. As Mercury, he becomes more disciplined, militaristic, and warlike. He has children and perhaps descendants atCamp Jupiter in San Francisco. The Greeks envisioned Hermes as a cunning and resourceful being. The Romans saw Mercury more as the god of commerce and trade rather than simply thievery and travel.
It is not mentioned what supernatural powers Hermes has, but much can be guessed from what he is known for.
- Enhanced Speed: Hermes is the fastest god and can travel the speed of wind due to his winged shoes
- Enhanced Thievery: Hermes is the god of thieves, so he might have a supernatural way of stealing things without others noticing.
- Hermes presumably possesses the standard powers of a god.
- As the messenger of the gods, Hermes can go to the realm of any god, including the Underworld.
- Prophecy: Hermes may have the power of prophecy. As a child he persuaded Apollo to teach the art of prophecy to him. This may be how he knew Luke's fate.
- Several Enhanced Skills: Hermes is perhaps the most versatile Olympian to be the god of so many diverse things. Example: Commerce, Sports, Fighting, Travel, Medicine, Music, Communication, Language etc. So it is possible that he may have several miscellaneous powers regarding his spheres of control.
Hermes has many children and all undetermined children go to Cabin #11 as explained by Luke in The Lightning Thief. His most mentioned child is Luke, who he seemed to love very much, as seen in The Last Olympian when he blessed Luke and kissed his forehead before having the Three Fates carry off his dead body. Poseidon also told Percy in The Titan's Curse, that Hermes loved Luke so much up to the point that Luke became Hermes' pride and joy. Luke Castellan, Hermes' favorite son===Greek Demigod ChildrenEdit===
- Luke Castellan (deceased)
- Connor Stoll
- Travis Stoll
- Chris Rodriguez
- Other Hermes Cabin members
- Autolycus
- Gus
- Harriet Tubman (deceased)
- Aethalides
Roman Demigod Children EditEdit
- Jack London (deceased)
- Unnamed Son of Mercury mentioned by Ma Gasket in The Lost Hero(deceased)
- Possibly more unnamed children and legacies.
Immortal ChildrenEditEdit
- Hermaphroditus (with Aphrodite)
- Pan (with Penelope, but other myths claim it was Dryope, a nymph; faded)
Symbol of PowerEditEdit
- Main article: Caduceus
A caduceus that Hermes usually keeps in phone form. It has two intertwined snakes named George and Martha(who can extend to full form when the caduceus is in full form), possibly from George Washington and his wife Martha Dandridge Washington, or (more likely) from the two main characters of the play "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf," a married couple who are frequently venomous towards each other. It is also his symbol of power.
Film EditEdit
The Lightning ThiefEditEdit
Hermes in The Lightning Thief movie.Hermes was played by Dylan Neal. Although he did not have a speaking line, they did zoom up on his face during the Olympian Council scene when Percy claimed that Luke was the one who stole the Zeus' Lightning Bolt. Luke also mentioned his father a few times, such as when he told the trio about how he stole a pair of Hermes' Winged shoes.
The Sea of MonstersEditEdit
Hermes will be played by Nathan Fillion .
- Hermes is the only god that can travel between the Underworld, Olympus, and the mortal world freely.
- Hermes is mentioned in the book The Red Pyramid, also by Rick Riordan, the first book in The Kane Chronicles. Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom, mentioned that the Greeks had mixed him and Hermes up, and noted that he is nothing like Hermes, and quoted "if you ever met Hermes", hinting that the two series take place in the same world. He was also the only Greek god to be mentioned in the series.
- The caduceus is often confused with the Staff of Asclepius, which is a sign of healing, whilst the caduceus is not.
- Hermes is the fastest god.
- There are no known daughters of Hermes that are in cabin 11.
- Hermes claims that he invented the internet, as he is the god of invention.


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26 April 2006
9:00 - 18:00
20. Analyzing Qualitative Data from Field Studies
4 units
Field study data can be overwhelming and messy. Learn analysis methods to go beyond 'anecdote collecting,' improve the quality of findings, and provide better input to product planning and design.
David A. Siegel
More info
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FDI fear makes Cong to Convene 'all Party Meet on Telangana
Cong High Command finally relented to its telangana MPs demand to convene all party meet. However the party decided to convene the meet on 28th Dec while T MPs demanded it to be done on 9th of Dec. However this is major victory for T MPs who were desperate to show that they could at least force one or the other decision on telangana.
However many feel it is not the fear of T MPs but fear of FDI vote in parliament that tied the hands of Cong High Command to take this decision. However with 28 Dec due date way ahead, it feels it can tame its MPs taking them to task once the FDI storm is weathered out which it seems to be as per the latest reports with parties like SP, BSP walking out of parliament.


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What's New in Historic Alexandria
Spring is in the air and the Office of Historic Alexandria (OHA) is now seeking a new corps of volunteers to assist the operation of City museums and historic sites over the coming year. Opportunities abound to share your pride in Alexandria's history and heritage programs, as you support Alexandria's city-owned museum system, one of only eight municipally-operated museum systems in the United States. Last year, OHA volunteers contributed over half a million dollars' worth of donated labor to supplement programming and visitor services that would not have otherwise been possible. Volunteer positions are available at virtually all locations with a variety of duties, including greeter, tour guide, researcher and conservation assistance. No experience is necessary, you will be trained for the role that meets your interests and available time commitment. Join the hundreds of long-term volunteers that are an invaluable part of the OHA family as you share your knowledge and skills with other residents and visitors to our great city! To pursue volunteer opportunities at OHA museums and museums partners, please click here.
This Week in Historic Alexandria
On March 4, 1861, Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated as President of the United States. The election of 1860 was hotly contested, with four candidates vying for the position. Lincoln received no majority in any Southern state and in Alexandria he received only two votes out of almost 1,000 cast. The outrage of his election in Southern states was so strong, that for his own safety, he had to enter the City of Washington secretly in the dark of night. Almost immediately votes of secession by state legislatures in the South began and within three months the American Civil War had begun.
Friday, March 3 – Children's Concert: Vive La Musique
The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum, 201 South Washington Street
Children and families are invited to attend a special concert with local musician, Achille, who will be singing popular children's French songs. Achille Ango grew up in Cameroon (Central West Africa). After graduating from high school, he went to France for seven years to study and play music. He has played music with various bands in the Washington area for more than 20 years, and teaches French in an immersion school using music as an educational vehicle. This concert is sponsored by the Alexandria-Caen Sister Cities Committee. Tickets are priced $5 per person and may be purchased online or in advance at The Lyceum. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as space is limited. 5 to 6 p.m. For more information call 703.746.4994, or email firstname.lastname@example.com
Friday, March 3 – The Alexandria Sister Cities Scottish Tasting
Lloyd House, 220 North Washington Street
The evening will feature tastings of high quality Scottish whiskys, Virginia wines, fine foods and a special program including a discussion, tasting instructions, and a Q&A led by a Scotch whisky convener and expert. In addition to the tasting, BBQ dinner, wine and other beverages will be provided. Proceeds from the fundraiser aid the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee mission to support the educational and cultural exchanges between Alexandria, Virginia and her Sister Cities of Dundee, Scotland and Helsingborg, Sweden. Tickets are priced at $45 per person. 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, please call 703.746.4554.
Saturday, March 4 – Historic Alexandria Resources Commission Retreat
Christ Church, North Columbus Street
Annual retreat to discuss HARC's mission, heritage tourism and policy recommendations for the coming year.Free! 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, please call 703.746.4554.
Saturday, March 4 – St. Patrick's Day Parade Open House at Carlyle House
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 North Fairfax Street
John Carlyle's son-in-law, William Herbert, immigrated to America from Ireland and married Sarah Carlyle. He became an influential merchant, banker, and politician in Alexandria, resigning as Mayor on the eve of the War of 1812. Step back in time to see what life was like in the 18th century in Alexandria, and to learn more about this part of Carlyle's family life. Admission is free, donations are welcomed. 12 to 4 p.m. For further information please visit www.carlylehouse.org or call 703.549.2997.
Saturday, March 4 – Gallery Talk: The Hand Print Workshop
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street
Join us for a gallery talk discussing The Hand Print Workshop: Twenty Years of Partnership in Print. The gallery talk will feature Dennis O'Neil of the Hand Print Workshop, as well David Chung, Steven Cushner, Alexander Djikia, Vera Khlebnikova, and Renee Stout and will be moderated by Sarah Tanguy, Art Historian, independent curator and critic based in Washington, DC. Event generously sponsored by Heather Corey and TTR Sotheby's International Realty. Free! 3 p.m. For more information, please visit www.nvfaa.org or call 703.548.0035.
Sunday, March 5 – Women's History Tour of Gadsby's Tavern Museum
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 North Royal Street
In honor of Women's History Month, tours of Gadsby's Tavern Museum on Sunday, March 5 will highlight the many roles women played in tavern life—from owners to enslaved workers and overnight guests to event participants. Regular museum admission charged: $5 for adults and $3 for children 5-12 years old. Groups of 10 or more should call to book a time, otherwise no reservations needed. Tours will follow the regular museum schedule, offered every 30 minutes beginning quarter of and after the hour. Last tour at 3:45 p.m. For more information, please call 703.746.4242.
Monday, March 6 – Gary Stephans' Art of Ballroom Dance
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street
Fun classes to learn to dance or improve your dancing skills: fox trot, waltz, tango, swing, salsa, merengue, rumba, cha-cha, and samba. All level of dancers are welcome, with or without a partner. Discover little techniques that most people never learn about and become a relaxed and proficient social dancer in these small, personalized dance lessons! Class fee is $15 per session, Basic or Advanced Techniques, attend both sessions for best results. To register for either or both sessions, click here. Basic Techniques class is 7 to 7:45 p.m. Advanced Techniques is 7:45 to 8:30 p.m. Free practice session from 8:30 to 9 p.m. For more information, please visit email@example.com or call 703.505.5998.
Now on Exhibit through April 2 – The Hand Print Workshop: Twenty Years of Partnership in Print
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street
Dennis O'Neil's Hand Print Workshop has fostered the work of printmakers across America and internationally, many of them leading artists from the former Soviet Union. This exhibit features a wide representation of the prints created by these artists in his Alexandria studios, including some by William Christenberry and Renee Stout — as well as works by O'Neil himself. Open Thursday through Sunday, 12 Noon to 4 p.m. For more information, please visit www.nvfaa.org or call 703.548.0035.
Now on Exhibit – Shield of Earth: Defending the Heart of the Union
Fort Ward Museum, 4301 West Braddock Road
This new exhibition that features objects, photographs and documents from the Fort Ward Museum collection related to the Defenses of Washington. The exhibition covers both the formidable task of building the defense system, which made the Federal capital one of the most protected cities in the world, and some of the men who were assigned to duty in the Washington area. Highlights of the exhibition include military passes issued by Provost Marshal's Office, construction tools, and original photographs of some of Washington's defenders, including a profile of Francis E. Brainerd, a soldier in the 1st Wisconsin Heavy Artillery who was stationed at Fort O'Rourke, not far from the present-day site of the Huntington Metro Station. Items related to how the forts protected Washington's vital transportation resources are also featured, such as a ship's lantern, rail section from the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, and colored lithograph of Soldier's Rest in Alexandria. Several original drawings of forts by soldiers stationed at those sites are on view, and a construction report dated February 1865 details work projects such as completion of new officers' quarters at Fort Ward. Other unique items featured are a sketch showing where President Lincoln came under fire during the Battle of Fort Stevens, a field desk belonging to an officer in the 107th New York Infantry, and an 1862 map of the Defenses of Washington published by the engineer E.G. Arnold. The exhibition will continue through 2017. Free! Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, please call 703.746.4848 or visit www.fortward.org.
Now on Exhibit – Hotel vs. Hospital
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 North Royal Street
Learn the story of the fine hotel industry in Alexandria and how it quickly changed after the Civil War began. The City Hotel (today part of Gadsby's Tavern Museum at 134 North Royal Street) was the only major hotel in Alexandria to remain open during the entirety of the war. The two other fine hotels in town, Mansion House (transformed into a massive Civil War hospital) and Marshall House (site of the first Northern and Southern deaths due to violence in the Civil War), had closed. Guests will discover how tavern keeper Samuel Heflebower was able to remain in business as he catered to the new customers arriving in Alexandria. For more information, please call 703.746.4242.
Now on Exhibit – Who These Wounded Are: The Extraordinary Stories of the Mansion House Hospital
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 North Fairfax Street
Come see the site that inspired Mercy Street, the new PBS' series inspired by real events that took place at Carlyle House. The six-episode program revolves around the doctors, nurses, and patients of Mansion House Hospital, a former luxury hotel owned by James Green, a prominent Alexandria businessman who resided in Carlyle House.
James Green purchased Carlyle House and the adjacent Bank of Alexandria in 1848. While living in Carlyle House with his family, he converted the Bank Building into the successful Mansion House Hotel. The hotel thrived, and Green expanded it in the 1850s. In November of 1861, the Union Army took over both the hotel and the mansion, turning the hotel into a hospital and the house into doctor and officer housing. The new exhibit recreates the days of Union occupation and tells the true stories of those who lived and worked here during the war. This is where Mercy Street really happened. Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m. For further information please visit www.carlylehouse.org or call 703.549.2997.
Now on Exhibit – The Lyceum: 175 Years of Local History
The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum, 201 South Washington Street
This new exhibition highlights the history of The Lyceum, as well as its role today as a place for exploring Alexandria's past. On view in the museum's Coldsmith Gallery, the historical objects and images featured represent The Lyceum, the community at work, and commemorations and celebrations. Throughout the exhibition, visitors are invited to "be the curator" and think about why the various artifacts are in museum's collection, and about how these tangible representatives of the past help tell the story of Alexandria's history.
Museum visitors can also explore artifacts relating to commemorating or celebrating something important in someone's life, or that serve as a memento representing an organization, business, or event. For example, five World War II service medals from a local soldier are on view, as well as a china pitcher promoting William Henry Harrison's campaign for the presidency, and a colorful hand-worked quilt commemorating the Bicentennial of the American Revolution in 1976. The Lyceum: 175 Years of Local History includes a variety of items providing a glimpse into different types of work in Alexandria since the community was founded in the 18th century. Objects range from circa 1796 wares marked by Alexandria silversmith Adam Lynn, a circa 1880 dresser manufactured by James F. Muir and Brothers, to a collage of original photographs – circa 1970 — documenting the Alexandria, Barcroft & Washington Rapid Transit Company.
Open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 p.m. and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. For more information call 703.746.4994, or visit www.alexandriahistory.org.
Now on Exhibit – Before the Spirits are Swept Away: African American Historic Site Paintings
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
This exhibition, featuring 20 of Sherry Sanabria's African American historic site paintings, is made possible by the Sanabria family, who generously donated 23 of her paintings to the Alexandria Black History Museum. Sherry, who had a studio at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center, passed away in 2014. Her family has made it their mission to find homes for her paintings where they will be appreciated and preserved. This incredible donation permits museum staff to use the paintings to explore slavery, interpretation, and preservation of African American sites in Virginia. These paintings are part of Sanabria's "Sites of Conscience" series, which has as its focus African American heritage, prisons, concentration camps, and mental hospitals. The Sites of Conscience series takes viewers to places of horror, places of pain and suffering, places we want to forget, but never should.
Robert Sanabria, Sherry's husband, feels this series "… demonstrates the widespread practice of bondage in the American South and the determination of the enslaved to survive and maintain their connection with their creator. It is especially fortuitous to have these works together where they will be valued and available for the appreciation of generations to come…."
Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am to 4 p.m., Sunday and Monday: Closed. Free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, please call 703.746.4356.
Now on Exhibit – Their Fates Intertwined: The Lees of Alexandria in the War of 1812
Lee-Fendall House and Gardens, 614 Oronoco Street
A new exhibit on the experiences of the Lee family in Alexandria during the War of 1812 examines the contributions of Alexandria's citizens during the conflict that led to the writing of our national anthem through the lives of this iconic Virginia family. For more information, please visit www.leefendallhouse.org or call 703.548.1789.
On Sale Now
On Saturday, March 11, the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society proudly presents the Best Bib & Tucker Ball 2017: Cherry Blossom Ball! For a night of unforgettable reverie, come join Doc Scantlin's Imperial Palms Orchestra and the dazzling songstress, Chou Chou, for dancing and entertainment. Delight in koto music from Sachiko Smith. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine, copious libations, and a fabulous silent auction. $150 per person. Additional sponsorship levels available. For tickets and more information, please visit Gadsby's Tavern Museum.
City Museums and Historic Sites
- Office of Historic Alexandria
- Alexandria Archaeology Museum
- Alexandria Black History Museum
- Archives and Records Center
- Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
- Friendship Firehouse
- Gadsby's Tavern Museum
- The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum
- Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Other Historic Sites and Resources
Categories: Dispatched


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It is the 9th May & we are on our way to the airport for our flight to Fuzhou City. We arrive late morning & then drive to the Botanical Gardens, which is also a forest reserve. Lots of people around & we have lunch & then take the longest path up into the hills. Birds are not prolific, but after sometime & effort, we did see a couple of real gems:
It is 10th May & we are up before dawn for the short drive to the Minjang Estuary. Our goal was to see the Chinese Crested Tern, which is one of the rarest birds in the world, with a population of only 50 birds (estimated in 2007). So the pressure was on!
Walking the trails, looking for
White-necklaced Partridge.
White-necklaced Partridge 2 seen, but several more heard; Great Barbet; 2 Rufous Woodpecker; 2 Grey-chinned Minivet; 3 Chestnut Bulbul; Orange-bellied Leafbird; Grey-streaked Flycatcher; 2 Grey-sided Scimitar Babbler; 2 Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler; Huet's Fulvetta & 3+ Fork-tailed Sunbird. It started to rain, so we headed back to the bus & drove to our hotel. Little else was seen.
It is 10th May & we are up before dawn for the short drive to the Minjang Estuary. Our goal was to see the Chinese Crested Tern, which is one of the rarest birds in the world, with a population of only 50 birds (estimated in 2007). So the pressure was on!
Sue & Ron, ready for the day!
We arrived at the site just as dawn was breaking. Most of us either in wellington boots or plastic bags over our shoes. I had taken a pair of slippers from my hotel room, because we had all been warned of the thick & treacherous mud which lay in wait for us once we got on to the mudflats. First however, we had to get there. So we transferred into two small boats & we were punted along by the local boatmen, down the main channel. Barn Swallows were leaving their roost in reasonable numbers & in the half light many eastern Yellow Wagtails flew over, with at least two or three, Citrine Wagtails sprinkled in their number as well.
Down the main channel.
The conditions were not ideal.
Yep! Then it started to rain!
The scene that greeted us, didn't look too promising!
Getting out of the small boats was interesting! The mud really was deep & slippy, but we all made it to slightly firmer ground unscathed. Everyone was on the look out, but there was precious little to be seen at first. But then one flew by! The very pale upper parts, short tail and slightly smaller size was evident. I transferred to my scope, & smiled as I saw the dark tipped yellow bill, which confirmed the identification. The only problem was, the bird just kept on going past!
We started to look at other species & found a pair of Swinhoe's (White-faced) Plovers on the sand. A lone Black-faced Spoonbill was asleep on the sand bar & nearby was a Eurasian Oystercatcher. A good variety of waders were noted, the best species being: 2 Grey-headed Lapwing; 6 Asian Dowitcher; 2 eastern Black-tailed Godwit; 3 Far Eastern Curlew; 24 Spotted Redshank; 18 Common Greenshank; 680+ Sanderling; 75+ Red-necked Stint; 10 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper & a Broad-billed Sandpiper. The gulls on the far sand spit all turned out to be Black-tailed Gulls. A further five large gulls were unidentified, being too far away for positive identification.
There were now plenty of terns to check, including at least 45 Greater crested Terns, but nothing was among them. 6 Little; 7 Gull-billed; 13 White-winged Black & at least 45 Whiskered Terns were around, or flying by.
It is the one on the left!
Chinese crested Tern on either side
of the Great crested Tern.
Starting to display!
Yes! It is happening!
Get ready now!
Looks like they will be nesting
somewhere this year!
Happy now?
All these photos were taken at 100X magnification.
I know there are a lot of photos of them,
but it is one of the rarest birds in the world!
But then it happened! 2 Chinese crested Terns were spotted, bathing in a tidal pool, around 400m away. We all enjoyed great scope views & as the tide ebbed & started to recede four more birds flew in all adults! We were watching six of the most endangered birds in the world, right in front of us! Everyone was elated with such prolonged views.
All smiles on the way back. Mission accomplished!
But then it was time to leave, the boatmen were worried we might not get back down the tidal channel. Getting into the boats was just as much fun as getting out had been! I had long ago abandoned my slippers & was walking barefoot, through a variety of interesting terrain! our journey back was uneventful with at least 10 Oriental Reed Warblers were singing from the reeds & gave good views. A Petchora Pipit showed for some & the Yellow-bellied Prinias here, had slate grey heads. Maybe a future armchair tick?
All too much for some!
We all cleaned ourselves up, which was no mean feet & we were once again back on the bus & on our way to the distant mountain of Emeifang. Not much else was seen for the rest of the day & we spent the night at a basic hotel close to the base of Emeifang.


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The Monsters and the Critics: Mesopotamian Heroes, Myths, and Monsters
Karen Sonik
In the land bounded by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the first cities rose in Mesopotamia's southern plains. Bastions of human civilization, ordered and protected by their patron gods, the cities were yet perpetually threatened by the wilderness beyond – the steppes, the deserts, the mountains, and the seas – which sheltered not only human enemies who rose at uneasy intervals to sweep violently over the cities of the plains but also those terrifying supernatural entities, the demons, that stalked their human prey in the darkness, and the monsters, those lonely and terrible denizens of the rocky mountains, the thickly wooded forests, and the tumultuous seas, that rose to challenge the power of the gods themselves. The relationship between the civilized and the wild was by no means a purely hostile one, however; rather, the visual and literary treatments of the subject are characterized by a remarkable subtlety and sensitivity of handling. Focusing here on the literary texts of the region, and especially the Gilgamesh narratives, this lecture explores that dynamic and unstable interface where order meets chaos, as well as more compelling questions about the role, interaction, and importance of heroes and monsters in Mesopotamia.
Please note that audio recording and photography of any kind is not permitted at ISAW activities without prior consent. Requests can be emailed a week or more in advance to firstname.lastname@example.com.
To RSVP, please email firstname.lastname@example.com.


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What is Radiesse™?
Radiesse™ is a filler meaning that it can be used where
you have wrinkles, scars and furrows. Our dermatologist has written two papers about Radiesse™ that were published in the dermatology literature. He is one of the first physicians in the New York area to use Radiesse™.
Where can Radiesse™ be used?
Radiesse™ can be used in the lines that go from the
corners of the nose to the lips, for facial wasting
and lipoatrophy and for other areas as well.
Can treatment with Radiesse™ be a lunchtime procedure?
Yes, Radiesse™ can be performed as a "lunchtime" procedure meaning that a patient can often go back to work afterwards though possibly with make-up or cover-up.
Can treatment with Radiesse™? Be combined with other treatments for wrinkles such as Botox® Cosmetic?
Yes—check our section on Wrinkles.
Is it FDA approved?
Yes, like Botox® Cosmetic, Radiesse™ is FDA approved. Radiesse™
is FDA approved for both wrinkles and HIV associated lipoatrophy.
How is it applied?
Because no cream can penetrate to help deep wrinkles,
like other fillers, Radiesse™ needs to be injected.
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It is made in a test tube, from material known as calcium
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What are the risks, side effects and complications
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While complications are uncommon, occasionally nodules
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Generally we use topical and local anesthesia before using Radiesse™.
How can I get started with Radiesse™ treatments for my wrinkles or lipodystrophy?
Just call our office today at (212) 557-2600 or e-mail us anytime and
set up a Consultation for your condition. If time permits and you qualify
for this procedure, we may be able to begin treatment on the day of your
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I play 2050 on the xbox one (used to play the original on the 360 hardcore). I just need a clan, especially an active one. The one I'm in now, the kid talked all about "being active" and making sure I was basically good enough to join his clan. 2 members that actually play (barely) and 5 more members that never log in, lying twit -_-
So, I need a clan badly. Message me on Xbox (Baebae2591) to let me know if you have a clan I can join.


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The Nurse Case Management program ensures that all children in foster care in Jackson County, Missouri, receive appropriate coordination of care—from immunizations to medication management. Our trauma-informed trained nurses work on behalf of foster youth, advocating for them, and helping to ensure that the unique needs of each child is addressed.
The nurse case management team is responsible for:
- Frequent child health summaries. Nurses complete a 30-day child health summary with subsequent health summaries completed every 90 days. These quarterly health summaries ensure that all responsible parties are aware of the child's current medical and behavioral diagnoses, prescribed medications, dates of most recent exams, immunization status and knowledge of any upcoming exam due dates.
- Face-to-face visits. Each foster child will have in-home nursing visits and assessment every 2–3 months.
- Support and advocacy in meetings. A nurse will attend Family Support Team and Permanency Planning Review meetings held by Children's Division, treatment and medication review meetings and physician appointments when needed. This ensures that there is a licensed medical staff member present to interpret medical information and act as an advocate on behalf of the child's continued healthcare needs.
Learn more about our Foster Care and Adoption Services.


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Physiotherapists are highly qualified health care professionals, skilled in the assessment and treatment of spinal and peripheral problems including joint, muscle, tendon and nerve injuries.
Clinical Pilates is individually tailored and provided under the guidance of highly trained physiotherapists. Programs are designed after a thorough assessment and program development and are provided 1:1 or in a small group of 3.
Circuit Pilates is less individualised and more general fitness based. These classes are still provided under the guidance of highly trained physiotherapists and utilise the Pilates equipment and mat area in a circuit format.
We are aware that finding the time to exercise with a new baby can be difficult. The Mums & Bubs classes are designed so you can bring your little one with you and the class is tailored towards labor recovery and the specific demands of a new mum.
Hydrotherapy (or aquatic physiotherapy) is a warm water based exercise therapy. Private appointments with one of our physiotherapists are available at the Bright Sports Centre.
At Ovens Valley Physio & Pilates we enjoy supporting local community events. Click MORE to see some of the recent events we have supported.
We have opened up our Bright clinic to visiting health practioners so that we can better service our community. Click MORE to see our list of current service providers.


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Mood: Happy.
Music: Subdivisions (Live), Rush
Game: Rock Band (360), Call of Duty 4 (PC), Assassin's Creed (360), Hellgate London (PC), Ratchet and Clank (PS3), MMO Beta (PC)
Book: Heat, Bill Buford
Watching: Not much.
Weather: Cold, Blue Skies.
In a few short months, I will be 40 years of age.
I can't even believe I wrote that…even less so that it's true.
When I think about all the things I've done over the last 20 years, and all the things I've wanted to do, I realize that I probably COULD have done a chunk of them if I had committed myself to them earlier, and just done it.
Among the top of the list of things is definitely cooking professionally. I really love to cook. I read cookbooks like other people read novels. It's pretty interesting that I actually rarely cook things from cookbooks (I do sometimes) but more often, the recipes inspire me when I do cook something.
I'm reading "Heat" now. It was written by a former editor/writer for the New Yorker, who decided he wanted to see what it was like to cook professionally, see the food world from the inside, and ended up working at Babbo, Mario Batali's restaurant. The book is largely anecdotal, with plenty of insight into Batali and other things.
Up until a few weeks ago, I was still entertaining the idea of maybe trying cooking professionally. When I went to Olivier's and Co, a really excellent olive oil shop, I guess my appearance and behavior led the manager to ask me if I was a professional chef. Of course, she could say that to everyone…but I still was a little flattered.
In any case, while reading Heat, I realized that I really couldn't do it. Not any more, really. I don't think I'm temperamentally suited to such a thing. I know I don't have the kind of energy I used to. Motivationally, I don't think I could really put in the kind of hours a restaurant would require. I do like the idea of working hours doing prep…seeing how a kitchen is run. But in reality? Probably not. Like anything else, work is work.
In one of my favorite books, Snow Crash, Neal Stephenson writes the following:
"Until a man is 25, he still thinks, every so often, that under the right circumstances he could be the baddest motherfucker in the world. If I moved to a martial arts monastery in China and studied real hard for 10 years. If my family was wiped out by Colombian drug dealers and I swore myself to revenge. If I got a fatal disease, had one year to live, devoted it to wiping out street crime. If I just dropped out and devoted my life to being bad.
Hiro used to feel that way, too, but then he ran into Raven. In a way, this is liberating. He no longer has to worry about trying to be the baddest motherfucker in the world. The position is taken. The crowning touch, the one thing that really puts true world-class badmotherfuckerdom totally out of reach, of course, is the hydrogen bomb. If it wasn't for the hydrogen bomb, a man could still aspire. Maybe find Raven's Achilles' heel. Sneak up, get a drop, slip a mickey, pull a fast one. But Raven's nuclear umbrella kind of puts the world title out of reach.
Which is okay. Sometimes it's all right just to be a little bad. To know your limitations. Make do with what you've got. "
I take a lot of inspiration from that. It mirrors exactly how I feel. I used to think that if I just said "fuck it" and went off to do something, I could be awesome at it….but now, maybe it's better that I enjoy it at my scale.
I'm still a good cook.
And Andy, I cook outdoors, on propane. While it doesn't have the brute enjoyment of wood/charcoal, it does give me a lot more control, especially for true barbecuing, like ribs or pulled pork. I have a smoke box I use in the gas grill, and I get really good results.


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This week marks six months since we left Canada and moved to Madrid. So, I've decided to take a quick break from the regularly scheduled travel programming to take a look back at the last six months – the adventures we've been on, the places we've seen, the foods we've eaten, and to look ahead at what the next six months has to offer.
For me, travelling is as much about eating new and exotic foods as it is exploring and seeing amazing things. The last piece of advice my mom gave to be before leaving was: "Eat and try all the weird new foods!" It was advice that I've taken to heart since we arrived in Europe – and thankfully, only once has it not gone my way (it didn't go my way for 10 days, but that's a story for another day…)


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Summers is over, the autumn is here
I woke up early just before 5:00 this first autumn day. Maybe it was a bite early for my taste even if I usually don´t have an issue getting up early. I had hoped that the deer rut should have begun but that wasn´t the case so I had to make other plans for Saturday.
I made a packed breakfast/lunch and took the car south towards Halland and the different birding locals there. The night before I check 2 new ones and the plan was to at least visit one of them.
The morning was cold and the fog had gathered nicely at some fields. I like fog but it is not the easiest phenomenon to photo. Actually I hope for fog during the deer rut because then you get an extra dimension.
I arrived at Getterön in Varberg at 6:30. When I got out of the car the cold greeted me like an old friend. This old acquainted isn´t one that I appreciate and I could have taken some warmer clothes but that wasn´t the case.
I could hear that there where many birds in the air and that they mostly where Greylag and Canada Goose. They soon came flying in formation but I knew there were more to come so I headed straight for the small photo hide. I just stayed there for a short period because there wasn´t anything interesting even if I saw a juvenile Water Rail. Instead I went to the big hide that primarily is for the twitchers.
This was much more productive and I got a nice interaction photo of two White Wagtails that fight.
The shutter speed is 1/3200s and that is needed if you are to freeze these birds. It is always tricky to get a shot like this one but I was fortunate that they sat on a big rock just 10 meters from the hide.
I could also take photos of Common Snipe, Red-backed Shrike and Wood Sandpiper. The morning might have been to cold for the birds so I headed back to the card and drove towards Morups Tånge that is one of the better places for waders on the west coast of Sweden.
When I arrived the parking lot was full so I knew that there would be many twitchers there. I got a good feeling as soon as I got onto the field that leads towards the beach because a Falcon came swooping low over the field. This was feeling was soon gone as I could see nothing of interest. It was just Gulls and Cormorants everywhere and no waders in sight.
This could be true so I took out my binocular and started to survey the beach to the north. I took me several minutes but at least I saw life in that area so it was just too start the short walk there.
I took some short pauses to see in what direction the waders where heading and I realized they were moving in my direction so I found a nice spot and took my seat there. I sat here for more than an hour taking photos. It was really though because the sun was burning from the clear sky straight at me as you can see in the 2 photos from Morups Tånge.
What made life tougher is that the birds are really small. Many of the photos I took were just to throw away because the camera focused on another object.
The Little Stint was so quick when it was searching for food so I had to raise the shutter to 1/2000s or more to get a decent result but the longer I stayed the nearer they came so in the end I got a photo or two that I can present here.
The sun took its toll and when I left I headed to Galtabäcks harbor to have lunch but I could see zero activity there so I went back home after eating my sandwiches.


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depends on the human in question.Originally Posted by ~ Monk ~
no, i'm kidding. i'm not sure, really. somehow i don't think they would ask me to do that.
Sacrifice an animal, and offer it's lifeblood
offer soem of your own lifeblood
Sacrifice another Human being
Decline, and possibly suffer the wrath of your God
None of the above.
And truely in any situation, in my humble opinion, I have no right to "sacrifice" anything but what I truely own. I cannot take from another. I do not have the right.
Life is a terminal sexually transmitted condition. There is no known cure & we are unable to determine how long you will have to live.LDMS
depends on the human in question.Originally Posted by ~ Monk ~
no, i'm kidding. i'm not sure, really. somehow i don't think they would ask me to do that.
Last edited by mothwench; February 1st, 2005 at 06:59 AM.
Hell no.Originally Posted by ~ Monk ~
My Author Page
That's the thing about magic. There's always consequences. Always.
Morgandria, yes I did.
Monk. No I wouldn't. As I already said before, if I were to sacrifice an animal a portion of it would be used to sustain myself, my family, and my community. Only the blood itself and the choice portions of the animal are left entirely for the gods. The rest of it is used, and not wasted. You seem to have this idea in your head that sacrificing an animal automatically means it's wasted, which as I've stated several times it is not. Most of the meat would be eaten, the skins would be used, as would the antlers, hooves and bones. Furthermore, if I were to kill an animal it would have to be because in doing so it was an actual sacrifice to me. That means I would be giving up something, not just killing a random animal. For example, if I lived on a dairy farm, an appropriate sacrifice would be a dairy cow, because by doing so I would be giving up the milk gained from that cow.
Human remains can't be put to use in this fashion and thus I would be unwilling to do so, because I am not going to kill something I'm not going to be able to use in some way for the good of my community. And yes, before you ask, I do put humans above animals. Just like everyone who refuses to eat meat or goes on and on about how perfect, wonderful animals are and how wrong it is to kill them puts them above plant life when they are eating those plants.
I'm personally don't see how killing an animal is any different then killing a plant. Scientists have done all sorts of tests that show that plants are aware and that they are capable of feeling pain. So exactly how is killing a plant (whether for food or a sacrifice) any different? It just irritates me because people seem to get so high on their horse about being better than those of who would give an animal sacrifice, because they "respect the sanctity of life." Except that every time you eat a plant or pull a weed out of the ground you are killing a life. Just because it can't move or feel pain in a way that you recognize, doesn't mean that it can't or doesn't. A life is a life, whether it moves and makes noises or not.
So please, stop trying to find ways to subtly belittle me or point out that I'm wrong or bad or whatever your reason for all of the questions. I've already answered all of your questions about it, and have in fact had to repeat myself several times. If you disagree with me fine, but don't question my motives. It's not a decision that I would EVER make lightly. If my gods are asking for it, there is a reason, a good reason. The gods have the ability and see comprehend things that we humans can never even begin to imagine. They are going to have a hell of a lot better idea of what is necessary than I am. Part of loving and worshipping my gods is trusting them. And I trust them to not ask me to do something so extreme without a very good reason. I also trust that they will let me know what that reason is should the situation ever arise.
When I think of blood offering, I'm not sure my concept is the same as everyone elses.
I think of a sweat and blood offering. Laboring to do something in the divine's service.
I may get injured in that service, or something of the sort. But it is indeed known that it was given willingly, and not some sort of afterthought.
In Service to the Lord and Lady,
hmmm, so given you hated yourself and wanted to kill yourself (loving as myself) does this make you kill and hate others too, with gods ok?Originally Posted by Doodlebug
It depends on what is meant by 'sacrifice'. This is a quote from Ceiswer Serith's grove site. All too often this idea of 'sacrifice' these days is influenced by the Christian concept of same. Here's another view...Originally Posted by Dio
"Furthermore, Romans generally believed that gods and spirits were omnipresent and responsible for all natural phenomena; therefore, they must be propitiated in order for the home and community to thrive. Do ut des was the most common form of prayer, meaning "I give so that you may give." The whole idea was to bargain with the gods and contribute to their power by adding to it with sacrifices. The gods are more powerful than humans and their power can be increased when humans offer them gifts. Many Roman prayers which are accompanied by offerings contain some form of the phrase macte esto ("Be thou increased"). The verb macto, mactare is linguistically derived from the same root as the word magnus ("great"). Thus, macte esto literally is an imperative suggesting that the deity being addressed be increased or enlarged by that which has been offered to it. In a sense, Romans may have believed that the gods needed humans to sustain and increase their power."
Even when humans were sacrificed the idea was that human life and human blood was the most precious thing that could be offered to the gods. It was not a disregard for human life, quite the opposite.
I happen to look at what is being called "blood sacrifice" in this thread as a sharing of what one has with one's dieties. Hospitality, sharing of food in particular, was held to be a virtue in many ancient cultures. Such a sacrifice, in those terms, is a "sharing" of the bounty with the gods, honoring them and offering one's hospitality to them in the same way. I saw it referred to on another message board as inviting the dieties to come on in and join the party. In my opinion that's probably closer to how ancient peoples saw it than how many of us see it today.
I do find it interesting to see how heavily ideas of contemporary society have begun to influence attitudes toward such a basic thing as sacrifice to the dieties, even among those who eat meat.
Why not? Perhaps it's even more important these days, when so many of us are connected only at a distance to the natural world as a reminder of that nature.Originally Posted by Pandoras
If it were a culturally accepted part of a ritual to sacrifice to a God why would anyone be questioning it?Originally Posted by Galadraal
No. And that refusal comes not from disrespect, lack of understanding or anything. It comes from the fact that I am a product of my times and my culture. Same goes for animal sacrifice. Could I personally actually kill the animal? Probably not, I don't like killing. But I recognize that's me. I don't object to the idea, I support it.Originally Posted by ~ Monk ~


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[caption id="attachment_91857" align="alignleft" width="220" caption="Facebook"][/caption]
Among many, just saying the phrase "This one goes to 11" brings a knowing nod and a smile. The famous scene in 1984's cult classic "This Is Spinal Tap" where British prog rocker Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) tells documentarian Marty DiBergi that he's had his amps modified to go "one louder" than 10 is used as shorthand to describe absurd behavior by empty-headed musicians.
Now it's a holiday.
According to The Huffington Post, former musician Michael Fennelly has created a 20,000+ member-strong movement on Facebook to declare tomorrow (11/11/11) to be Nigel Tufnel Day.
Another member of the Tap faithful, Adam Gimbel, will have armadillos in his trousers as he performs with his Spinal Tap tribute band Twelve at 11:11pm that night. Gimbel has created a separate "worldwide party directory" for Nigel Tufnel Day that lists over 40 celebrations across the globe.
Though the band has reunited periodically over the years (and as parallel mock band The Folksmen), the only official partying by the actual group on the holiday will be when Nigel Tufnel and Derek Smalls (Guest and Harry Shearer) do a special Skype chat before a screening of "This is Spinal Tap" at Brooklyn's hip BAM movie theater.
All this is pretty amazing for a film that barely made a whimper at the box office when it first came out, but has continued to spread its legacy as the most beloved mockumentary of all-time and a favorite among musicians including The Edge, Eddie Van Halen and Tom Waits.
"There is a certain beauty to the perfect stupidity of Spinal Tap," said Fennelly. "So much of what happens in the movie is true that many musicians feel pangs while watching it because basically your whole career is mocked."


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knowing and believing...
The "objectionable" comment: Something along the lines of "it is through our experiences that we acquire our knowledge".
My objection: "This is utter crap." (As you can see, the discussion quickly got off to a brilliant start.)
Let me explain, dear reader...
But first "let's define our terms" as all good philosophers would caution us to do...
Experience: Our individual experience of an event in our lives. i.e. There is an event, and then there is our experience of that event. e.g. The event: Door unexpectedly and loudly slams shut in pitch black room. My experience of the event: I have an anxiety attack, defecate and urinate into my pants, and collapse into a quivering huddle in the corner of the room, believing I am about to be shot, frantically groping around for a non-existent rifle with which to "protect" myself.
Knowledge: That which is known. That which is knowable. (See the verb "to know".)
Know: (v.) That which can be scientifically or logically demonstrated to be true or factual.
Belief: That which is held to be true or factual, but for which no satisfactory scientific or logical explanation is offered.
*** IMPORTANT: Note the distinction between believing and knowing. ***
As we can see from the above example, our experience of an event often has little to do with the event at all, but has a lot more to do with the psychological and historical framework within which we "perceive" that event.
It is along this line that I extrapolated that our experiences often have a lot more to do with our beliefs than our knowledge, and that our experience often serves to reinforce our beliefs rather than advance our knowledge.
Gary Zukav puts it very well in The Dancing Wu Li Masters:
"Reality is what we take to be true. What we take to be true is what we believe. What we believe is based upon our perceptions. What we perceive depends upon what we look for. What we look for depends upon what we think. What we think depends upon what we perceive. What we perceive determines what we believe. What we believe determines what we take to be true. what we take to be true is our reality."
I call this "Zukav's Truth Loop"
To wrap it up: What I know (now) is that the door slammed shut. What I experienced (back then) was a very individual mind-movie which I mistook for "reality" and which utterly obliterated my erstwhile ability to know what was actually happening.
Do you understand now why I say that our experiences do not inform our knowledge, but rather, that they are the products of our beliefs. A handy little corollary here is that if we change our beliefs (or better still, obtain some real knowledge), our experiences will change also. However, if you prefer to live in a fairy tale (or nightmare) of your own creation, then by all means base your "knowledge" on your so-called experience.
Here endeth the rant...


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Did you know?
FlipGrid - For Students to Respond via Video to "Ignite Discussion"
FlipGrid - For Students to Respond via Video to "Ignite Discussion"
This tool is so easy to use and could be a breakthrough way for some of your students to reveal their learning, concepts, thoughts, ideas, language fluency, etc. The class discussion can be as open or restricted as you need. It's a simple idea and quick to implement.
- You create an account/grid and post a question for your students to answer or a prompt for them to respond to
- You can post a link for them to access the site or you can post that link on your web page
- They click on it, see the question and answer in a video format
- They have 1.5 minutes of video time to answer the prompt/question
- They can do retakes if needed
- They get to preview their video
- Then take a still shot for the preview image
- Once it's posted you can view it
- In the viewing window, there's a "transcript" button you can press to see the written form of what they're saying. (This is in beta service.)
- You choose whether other students are able to see each other's work
- You can also moderate, so no video is posted that you haven't approved
- There is a free version and two paid options. In the free version, you get 1 grid, unlimited students, unlimited topics, unlimited responses, video transcriptions and free iPhone/iPad and Android apps.
Check it out! https://info.flipgrid.com
What if?
A Snapchat Project Based Learning Attempt
One teacher's project to change things up a bit using +Snapchat. His students had been writing quite a bit and he was looking for something new…"Instead of coming up with something on my own, I asked the students. During our discussion, Snapchat was mentioned and an entire project grew from there." For his article, click here. To see the assignment, click here.
#EngChat #PBL +NerdyCast
Easy Internet Safety Tips For Parents From An Expert That You Can Start Using Now
This article, with tips provided by Ryan Moreau and posted by +Cool Mom Tech, answers the following questions and gives 2-5 easy steps for each...to help you help your family stay safer online.
- How can I make our family computer safer?
- What's the safest way to share information on social networks, like Facebook?
- What's a good age for parents to start talking to and educating their kids about internet safety?
- What are the five most important things parents should make sure their kids know before sending them off to surf the web?
Image from +Unsplash, photographer Kate Serbin
Something to think about…
Write Less to Write Better
When your students are working on being concise and clear in their writing, Google Docs has a great tool to help them. Using the "Word Count" tool, students can see how many words or how many characters they've used in their writing. This article from +Eric Curts has a few ideas for helping students be able to summarize, restate and clear out the unnecessary filler text. He includes ideas for activities and includes access to a nice "Compose a tweet" template, done in Google Drawings, to make it a little more engaging and "real world". +Google for Education
7 Skills Digital Kids Will Need In 2017
...not just kids, we all need these! Take time to read this article from +CyberWise1 identifying what is becoming more and more important.
- Knowing How To Unplug
- Reputation Management
- Identify Fake News
- Social Skills
- Maintaining Safe Relationships
- Knowing When to Keep it Private
- Ingenuity and Leadership
Improve Your Photos with the Very Best Photo Editing Apps from +Photojojo
Improve Your Photos with the Very Best Photo Editing Apps from +Photojojo
Great apps to fine tune, work filter magic, superimpose, retouch, print, get creative, slow down your shutter, digitize or go manual...suggestions for all of those are in this article.
I'm using the "1 Second Video Everyday" app this year...it might be a great way to record what goes on in the life of your classroom...a digital experiment of sorts! Image: https://static.pexels.com/photos/4968/person-hands-woman-smartphone.jpg
Unsplash - Free (do whatever you want) high-resolution photos.
Stunning images! This could be a great resource for teachers, students, reference images for art, etc. +Unsplash https://unsplash.com/ image by Arushee Agrawal
A Lawyer Rewrote Instagram's Privacy Policy So Kids And Parents Can Have A Meaningful Talk About Privacy - A good starting point to understand, and help students understand, what you give away and agree to when using social media. Posted on Quartz, Thank you +Cool Mom Tech
In Addition…
21 Incredible Innovations That Improved The World In 2016
Amazing things in this post! Feel good about what others are doing, give students ideas for the greater good, etc. (if sharing with students, be aware of the invention at slot #20) +Mashable http://mashable.com/2016/12/18/social-good-innovations-2016/?utm_source=swissmiss&utm_campaign=623a750ca5-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2660ad4d17-623a750ca5-393340477#HTEVAfdmAiqa
World Map Reveals What Each Country Does Better Than Any Other, thank you @SwissMiss
9 (Creative) Ways To Stay In Touch With Long-Distance Friends, thank you @SwissMiss


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I created this Layout as my Design Team submission for last months123 Challenge Blog. I love this colour combo and love this photo of my gorgeous daughter.
As usual I started with a stencil - ST1031
I painted & inked the lovely chipboard pieces
CB4069 Ornate Frames 26
CB6104 Assorted Words 21
CB1192 Scrap Words 04
CB1158 Butterflies 20
CB1159 Hearts 05
CB5166 Leafspray 15
CB1151 Leaves 03
I then created a cluster with flowers, a flair & a button, as well as the chipboard leaf and leafspray. Until you look closely you don't realise the green leave is chipboard. I have added the words to the cluster and finished off with the heart.
This is such a bright and happy layout - just like my girl!
I also created this quick Thank You card.
Again I started with a stencil - ST 5049 Lattice.
I then added the Thank You CB6102 Assorted Words 21, and then, added a flourish from the CB4069 Ornate Frames 26, pack. One of the many flourishes that come in the same pack as the frame around the photo in the layout above.
I heat embossed both the Thank You and the flourish.
I hope my layout and card have inspired you in different
ways to use Scrapmatts Stencils and Chipboard.
Until next month,
Happy creating
Lisette xo


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With the establishment of multiple international offices came the desire to connect all of them with the same processes and turn them into a paperless office, Connex Assistance wanted cutting-edge technology and were looking for a supplier to deal with restructuring their business to gain a competitive edge.
Bright Creations was brought in as Business Consultants to analyze the business and recommend streamlined processes which, with the support of technology, would achieve their goals.
When the Austrian Cultural Forum Cairo (ACFC) was looking for an agency that would help them redesign their website and replace their out of date CMS to develop a new one, we were right there to help out.
Zealous, an up and coming start-up in London, UK was looking to hire developers to help assist them in the redevelopment and upgrade of their online platform.
They selected Bright Creations to outsource their development work.
When our sister company Event Republic was ready to get their own website, it was merely a matter of time until they showed up on our doorstep to ask for our help.
The design of the website is amazing, but we have to admit that they designed it themselves and only got us on board to develop it.
A brand new retail store of home-ware products was launched in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bright Creations was right in the middle to help them set up their online eCommerce presence.
Fort Arabesque Resort, Spa & Villas was on the lookout for a creative digital agency that could help them revamp their old website. Bright Creations designed & developed the whole website.
After 30 years of cruising the Nile waters in Upper Egypt and countless visits to all those beautiful ancient sites Luxor and Aswan have to offer, Presidential Nile Cruises (PNC) thought it was time to leave ancient Egypt for just long enough to get in touch with us to help them design and develop a website.
Ideavelopers, a venture capital firm supporting innovative startups, was in need of a website to have a wider reach for potential early stage companies they invest in.
The website was designed & developed by Bright Creations.
BECAUSE is a beautifully designed website filled with relevant CSR articles & stories of social innovators, charities, grassroots associations and companies that step up to drive social change.
The platform also offers 'The Hub' section which allows organizations to become members, get work through their profile, find out about one another and potentially collaborate.


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Bio-Strath, Strath, Original Superfood, 100 Tablets
Flash Deals are limited time, limited quantity promotions, so act fast! Limited to: 1 unit of 1 product per order. If you order more, you will pay our regular every day low price.
Bio-Strath, Strath, Original Superfood, 100 Tablets
Expiration Date:?September 2022Expiration Date
The length of time for the expiration date or "best used before" date depends on the type of product, as well as the brand.
Perishable items (such as flax oils or certain probiotics) generally have shorter expiration dates. Although our warehouse is fully air-conditioned, these more fragile items are put in cold storage (freezer or refrigeration unit) for maximum freshness.
Our receiving department does its best to verify and then enter the correct expiration dates for all incoming products. However, discrepancies do occur from time to time. This being said, the exceptionally high turnover at iHerb ensures that our inventory is among the freshest in the industry.
Shipping Weight:?0.08 kgSwitch to Imperial units
- Product Code: BST-60803
- UPC Code: 021718608036
- Package Quantity: 100 Count
3.8 x 5.6 x 13 cm , 0.07 kgSwitch to Imperial units
Product Rank:
Featured Products
- For Better Health
- Vitality, Energy, Immune
- 61 Trace Nutrients
- Fermented Whole Food Supplement
- Fermented Food
- Non-GMO
- Vegan
- Vegetarian
- Gluten Free
- Lactose Free
- Nothing Artificial
- Kosher
- Nature's Answer since 1972
How Does Strath Work?
Let's face it - most of us do not get as many vitamins and nutrients as we should each day, and the ones we do ingest (though food or supplements) have to survive a harsh digestive process. These vitamins and nutrients can only provide us with top-notch nutritional value if our bodies give them the right environment to do so, and most of ours don't.
That's where Strath comes in. We use a nutritional yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or "The Beneficial yeast". Then, we feed each nutritional yeast cell a feast of beneficial herbs, each containing vital nutrients the body needs. These yeast cells eat and digest each vital nutrient.
Human digestive systems cannot break down the cell wall of the nutritional yeast, so we at Bio-Strath have one more step to complete. We stop the growth of the nutritional yeast cell, which allows the cell wall to open up. This process is called plasmolysis, and it allows your body to easily absorb the vital nutrients that have been digested by the yeast cells.
Naturally Fermented
- 30 Trace Elements, Vitamins & Minerals
- 20 Amino Acids
- 15 Herbs
- Probiotics
- Antioxidant Benefits
Suggested Use
As a dietary supplement, take 2 tablets 3 (three) times daily. Frequency may be doubled for 2-3 days. For children under 12, take 1/2 the adult serving. Strath may be taken with juice or by itself.
Other Ingredients
Corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, pectin, silicic acid.
Caution: Keep out of the reach of children.
|Supplement Facts
|Serving Size: 2 Tablets
|Servings Per Container: 50
|Amount Per Serving
|%Daily Value
|Saccharomyces cerevisiae
|870 mg
|Proprietary Herbal Blend:
Angelica root, Lemon balm leaf, Basil aerial parts, Chamomile flower, Cinnamon back, Caraway seed, Elder flower, Fennel seed, Horseradish root, Hyssop leaf, Lavender flower, Parsley aerial parts, Peppermint leaf, Sage leaf and Thyme aerial parts.
|20 mg
|†Daily Value not established.


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What? August is already over? I haven't had the time to think about my life recently, that is also why I didn't wrote a post about my thoughts in July. So grab yourself a coffee or some snacks because I have a lot to say this time 😉
So much is happening right now and I have so many plans I want to realize immediately. But when you think you have your life under control, it's getting out of control again.
By that I mean before I went to Asia I had the feeling that everything is going to be in its place, but because I had to go to Asia and study abroad, I had to left everything undone.
All my plans have to wait now until I am back and I am not really excited for Asia because I don't like to wait for taking my plans into actions.
But it's something I cannot change and time is passing by like crazy, so I hope the time in China will be great but I also want to be back as soon as possible so I can carry on with my plans and projects.
By the time you read this post I am already in China and trying to figure out how to survive there. Right now I am anxious, not only because I am afraid of being not understood, but also kidnapped and so on. My family in Vietnam and my parents are scaring the sh*t out of me with their stories how dangerous China is and how much they hate Vietnamese people is and what they do to each other.
Maybe that's a reason why I am not really happy about studying abroad anymore but I don't believe in generalizing a nationality, that's just bullsh*t.
But I was most concerned about my dorm room, getting one or not because some of my studies didn't get a room, so they have to live in a hotel first and then go looking for a flat in China! It is so difficult to find a flat when you are not in the country yet.
So this was my biggest fear and the nightmare came true when I had to sign in for a dorm room at university. They were completely booked! Fortunately I have a friend who is studying with me and is also going to the same university abroad and has some contacts in China. I still have to wait now if I will get a room now or not, my friend told me there is someone in a high position who will give us a room for sure, but we don't have an answer yet. Well, let's see.
I am not that type of person who likes to worry too much anyway. I think I will know how to survive then.
But I don't know how to survive without a mobile phone in a foreign country where the language is so complicated and where you can be easily missunderstood.
Since the beginning of 2016 I have nothing but problems with mobile phones! I switched from LG to iPhone 6s and then I had to return the iPhone twice and now it's broken again! But I don't trust asian shops, everyone says they are using low quality products to exchange parts of your phone and my iPhone still has a guarantee here, it is only 2 or 3 months old! It sucks so hard, it is my 4th phone this year and I have nothing but trouble! My friends say it's because I use Snapchat too much, but whatever I don't want to ramble about my mobile phone issues here on my blog.
I don't want to judge too early but I feel like this year is not really my year, I have bad luck so many times but I could dim the damage a little, but not little enough. So, I hope this year is going to end good.
Well, I think I have much more to say but I feel like it's more about mourning about my bad life right now, so I just stop here and wish you all a happy day and we'll see us on Instagram or Snapchat if you follow me 😉


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Aurora, CO 80015
Brand New Home Ready August 2018! END UNIT!!! Beautiful views! Great floor plan! Granite counters in kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Garden level basement backing to open space. A/C and window coverings included. Energy Star Certified & HERS Rated. Come and see this great location! Own a new home in a well-established community with convenient location and a variety of recreational activities and exceptional views, plus access to Cherry Creek State Park and Reservoir. Cherry Creek school district. 2 Miles to I-225, I-25 and RTD Light Rail at Nine Mile. Residents of Pioneer Hills enjoy low-maintenance paired home living with exterior upkeep provided by the neighborhood association, views of the majestic Rocky Mountains, a brand new retail center, a community swimming pool, and access to major highways. Across the street at Cherry Creek State Park, they can hike and bicycle, swim and catch some rays, water ski, and enjoy abundant wildlife.
The Kiker Team with Keller Williams DTC
2019 Shop Real Estate. All rights reserved. © Collaborative Home Search by RealSavvy
"Copyright © 2018 REcolorado®. The information being provided on this website is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any other purpose."


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The Law Reform Commission have launched a public consultation, and published an Issues Paper, on the issue of the Compulsory Acquisition of Land. The issues paper considers 23 separate aspects of...Continue Reading
Ireland's Regional Authorities have a range of powers in relation to spatial planning and economic development. They were streamlined into three Regional Assemblies in 2015, As part of the Government's reform...Continue Reading
In advance of the Christmas season it is useful to note that for planning deadlines (other than in relation to Development Plan, Local Area Plan, etc. timeframes), the 'clock' stops between...Continue Reading


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- Snapchat and Instagram removed their Giphy integration feature because of a racist GIF.
- It could be Giphy's fault.
- Both companies introduced such feature this year.
Snapchat and Instagram momentarily pull out their GIF sticker feature. Their main reason was that their customers saw racist GIF as a different way to include in their photos.
After Snapchat received information about racist GIFs, it eliminated the GIF and disabled the feature until it could be confident that it wouldn't occur again. It's waiting for its team to have a look at it.
Same GIF on Instagram
Some people also detected the same racist GIF on Instagram. It showed that Giphy is at fault here. Giphy, on the other hand, eliminated the GIF in question as it is no longer available on Instagram.
Instagram stated that said content does not fit on Instagram. As the company examines the problem, it stopped integrating with Giphy. The company verifies that it made some adjustments. However, the changes could take a while to proliferate to all users.
All GIFs in Snapchat should be rated PG. It means that they are ideal for 13 and up.
The GIF consists of troubling messaging including a racial slur.
Snapchat said that it's really sorry for what happened. The Giphy community standards restrict this sort of undesirable content to begin with. Giphy functions as a search engine that indexes leading GIFs on the Internet. Unfortunately, things could still slip through
Giphy did not comment yet.
Instagram and Snapchat released Giphy integration
In late January, Instagram released its Giphy integration after several months of limited rollouts. With that release, users could plaster flying cheeseburgers, for example, over their photos and videos. The company provided thousands of moving stickers that they can choose from because of the Giphy integration.
On February 20, Snapchat introduced its Giphy integration. In that way, users can jazz up their images and videos with moving photos. Giphy team curated the photos as risk-free. Snapchat's GIF feature is loaded with Sticker Picker on top of the current options. It did prove that Snapchat could copy an element from Instagram — its biggest rival.
It's not Snapchat's initial encounter with racist content. In 2016, users slammed it for producing an Oriental "yellowface" stereotype enhanced AR lens that offered people slanted eyes.
Snapchat runs the risk of shady credibility if it can't maintain its content in control. The fault can discourage the company from collaborating more with designers outsider their team. Through its Lens Studio and Giphy integration, outside developers could bring their content into the app.
The occurrence is humiliating for Facebook, which is Instagram's parent company. It additionally calls into question the Kids app, which also has the said integration that is meant to reveal GIFs images.
Instagram and Snapchat need to determine whether they desire aid from outsiders even if they can not ensure the top quality or safety of their content. They can also opt to stop working with outside developers as they compete against each other.
GIFs are popular because of their ability to give a ton of details in one short clip. The compression enables you to have catchy communication which is better for messaging and for ads.


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Ray Lynch, a classical trained guitarist and composer of electronic film music, was born in Utah and raised in West Texas. As a composer and producer, Lynch has won 3 Billboard Awards, written five albums, and sold over 2 million albums without the benefit of live performances or videos.
"Deep Breakfast" has music you'll recognize from radio, television, and broadcast around the world during the Olympics. Happy, effervescent, and rich with romantic, melodic themes and playful arrangements, Deep Breakfast is a classic, and the first independently produced album to be certified Gold, then Platinum, by the R.I.A.A., and won Ray Lynch one Award for Artist of the Year in his genre.
Most of the sounds in this album come from the Yamaha DX7 synthesizer which was popular at that time and still is. Peaceful and emotional melodies that make this album unique and essential to all lovers of ambient/new age electronic music.
Get it


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I love thisxx
Posted on October 27, 2014 By My Perfect Breakdown
After all our bad news lately, we have been talking a lot about what is next for us. We've been talking, thinking, crying and even laughing. We see 5 options before us right now.
1. Try Again with the full treatment plan
In many ways, this would be the ideal solution, because Mr. MPB and I already have some idea what we would be getting into. But, we both know that it is unlikely to occur for us. Based on our current diagnosis expectations, it is unlikely we will be able to afford the full treatment plan. We fully expect that once we receive the full treatment plan from Dr. B, this will trigger the official end of our RPL/infertility journey after almost 2.5 years and 5 lost babies. I am sure that this will take us on another emotional roller-coaster as we come to grips with our new reality, but I am confident we will figure out how to live with this.
2. Try Again with a partial treatment plan
This is probably not going to happen for us. We chose from the onset not to tell Dr. B about our financial constraints. We wanted him to design us the full package (i.e. we want the Porch with all the bells and whistles and upgrades). We want to know what he would recommend without any constraints to know what will give us our best chances.
Once we see that, we can then start to look at downgrading and what the lesser options will do to our budget and our chances of success (i.e. will we just be designing the ford pinto which will allow us to drive it until it explodes and kills us all). That said, I suspect both my husband and I are prepared to walk away from trying again if we cannot do everything on Dr. B's list – neither of us want to go through another miscarriage, and if we cannot afford the best, we might just not be willing to take the ride. Honestly, for me, right now, it was one thing before to be willing to try again when we didn't know the cause. But now, knowing my body is unknowingly reacting negatively to each one of our babies and ultimately ending each pregnancy, I'm not really interested in trying if I cannot at least give them a better chance at survival. I don't see how I would be willing to try again both because I don't want that to be my child's short life. I also don't believe that I can experience another loss. I'm not sure I can emotionally play the game anymore when the risks are so high and the chances of success so unbelievably low. If we cannot afford the full treatment plan this will likely be the end of our pregnancy journey.
All of this said, we will not make any decisions until we know and understand the final diagnosis and treatment plan options and chances of success.
3. Surrogacy / Gestational Carrier
This may be one of our best options moving forward. We have been spending a lot of time discussing and researching this option. We will undoubtedly also be spending a lot of time in the future discussing the same.
There are definitely some pros and cons for this solutions.
Pros include:
Some negatives include:
4. Adoption
Right now, deep inside my heart, I believe this will be our final route to parenthood. As we have been researching adoptioon for months now, I have written a bunch about adoption in the past multiple times (and I'm I will continue to). We have a lot of concerns, but we also have a lot of knowledge about the process and the risks.
Ultimately, we both know that if we want to have children, adoption is the most certain way to get there. We know if we choose to adopt, that with some time and patience we will end up with a child. There is something to be said about certainty. There is something to be said about loving a child in need of parents.
5. A life without children
This will likely not be our outcome. We have talked about this at length over the last year, and even more so in the last few weeks. While not having children would enable us to travel more, take greater risks, have less financial worries, go out for fancy dinners more frequently, and really do whatever we want (as I have discussed), we both know this choice would also mean something will always be missing in our lives. And, as my husband so eloquently put it the other day, if I have to choose either adoption or not having children, I'd rather take the small health risks related to adoption.
Once again, he is so right (I knew there was a reason I married this amazing man). For us, at the end of the day,
We want children to be part of our lives, and we will love and care for any child that comes into our lives regardless of how they arrive. We have too much love in our hearts to not share it.
If you like this post, please feel free to share it and please return to myperfectbreakdown.com to follow my journey.
So, we may end up on the exact same adoption schedule as you guys. The next available adoption seminar offered here is in January! So, we cannot move forward in the adoption process until then as well (which rationally I know is probably best so that we have a few months to grieve and pick ourselves back up).
And thank you so much for your kind words – I too believe you and J will make amazing parents when the time comes!
Brilliant post. When you're faced with so many obstacles it really helps to be practical and look at what you can do, and you have lots of viable options here. Surrogacy and adoption both sound great if you decide not to try again yourselves – whatever happens you'll have a child to love, and that's the main thing xxx
You're definitely plowing through an incredible amount of information and coming to some wonderfully clear conclusions. It seems as though you have a strong pull towards adoption, which is great. In terms of surrogacy, I have many friends who did international surrogacy and we're pleased. There are definitely logistical hoops but for married, heterosexuals there are a lot of options. As far as you going through IVF, I have to say it really is surprisingly uneventful. I started the IVF process with dread but have been pleasantly surprised. Luckily, your age is in your favor so you have plenty of time to decide.
Thanks Elizabeth! I am currently more pulled to adoption then surrogacy, but we all know we can change our minds pretty quickly! And thank you for sharing your perspective on IVF – while I really doubt we will do it, I always appreciate having more information. Do you happen to know what counties your friends went to for international surrogacy? I'm always curious.
And you are right, age is absolutely in our favour in so many ways, but it still pisses me off that we are looking at a few years before we will have children with all the alternative options. But, I guess late is better then never, right? 🙂
Thanks again for all your encouragement!!
Sending you much love and strength as you decide on the next step of your journey. It seems like you have a clear view on your possibilities, and can make a sound decision once you have all the information. No matter how it happens, your baby will be much loved and you will be a wonderful, loving mother. You already are.
Hi! I am new to your blog and look forward to reading more. I'm sorry you have such a hard decision to make on what route you will take. My husband and I finally are expecting with a gestational carrier. When this was first brought up by the doctor he mentioned that someone we know would volunteer to do this for free. I thought he was nuts! But he was right! My cousin volunteered to carry our baby; we didn't even ask. My thought is, is if you want to go this route, I'm sure there is someone who would do the same for you.
I have a couple friends who adopted and it has been so wonderful for them and can be such a beautiful thing!
Of all your choices, I know you will make the correct one for you! Wishing you all the best and that whatever you choose will get you your sweet, precious baby as soon as possible 🙂
Hi Jennifer! Welcome – I too just started following your blog and am so excited that you are expecting with a gestational carrier! That is so incredibly wonderful and I am so excited to be able to learn from your experiences!
I am sure I will spend some time writing about all our thoughts on gestational carriers. We have actually had 2 women "offer" in passing to be a carrier for us, but we know one is busy growing her own families and the other is dealing with there own health struggles, so adoption will likely be just as quick and more realistic. But, who knows what will happen in the future.
Thank you so much for your kind words. 🙂
I get the sense of some clouds parting and blue sky peeking through. This post sounds grounded and contemplative without being academic. I am so grateful to see you and Mr. MPB coming to a place of togetherness as you field your potential options. I wish you peace, love and compassion as your journey unfolds.
I love how clear headed you are in the way you and your hubby are thinking through your options. It's really admirable and I really think it'll lead you down a path that your heart connects with and feels right. I know your resilience and determination will pay off. Sending love your way during this time! ❤
Thanks so much for your thoughts and love. I feel as though we are slowing moving out of the extreme disappointment of finding out that the costs of trying again are likely unattainable. And, clearly laying out our options is so critical for us to be able to make some sort of a decision on what's next.
How are you doing these days?
I've been doing ok…I got really sick with a stomach flu recently, and have been so busy trying to catch up with work that I've fallen behind on blogging! I've been reading all your posts though, and have been thinking of you as you're going through all of this. Hugs!
Oh, the stomach flu sounds horrible! I hope you are on the quick path to recovery.
You have thought these options out so thoroughly but they're all so different. A surrogate seems like a viable option that wouldn't put you through further physical stress, although the beginning may still have a lot of emotional what it's. Good luck. And I like how you called your husband "Mr MPB"


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2008 Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R.
Excellent condition.
I bought the bike new, only owner and older rider.
Clean title, never dropped or crashed.
Hard to let go, but I rarely ride anymore.
Comes with the bike:
- Akrapovic black carbon fiber slip-on exhaust
- Akrapovic linkage pipe (CAT eliminator)
- Vortex adjustable rearsets or foot pegs
- Puig windscreen
- Techspec grip pads for the tank
- Frame sliders – Never used
- Fender eliminator kit
- Front gear, down one to 16 teeth
- Speed healer to compensate front gear
- Oil, coolant, chain lube, etc.
- Have original exhaust, and fender, easy to clip back on if you'd prefer.
Will sell:
$175 - Helmet Shoei RF1000 Breakthrough with blue shield
$250 - Helmet Shoei RF1100 Hadron with black shield
$230 - Alpinestars leather jacket Size 42
$230 - Alpinestars leather pants
$75 - Racer leather gloves – Large
$40 - ICON perforated gloves – XL
$30 - Women's gloves – L
$70 - Pit Bull front
$70 - Pit Bull Rear stand
$150 - Sidi Vertigo Corsa boots Size 45 or 11 US
$6,300 for the bike and parts
$7,300 for the bike and all the gear
No trades, cash in hand to test ride + M1 license
I can take more photos in the next day or two.