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'Kubo and the Two Strings'
"If we hold our stories deep in our hearts, you will never take it away from us." Kubo, the titular hero of Laika Studios' latest feature, Kubo and the Two Strings, declares this in the film's climactic showdown. He is facing off with his grandfather, the immortal Moon King, and, with his declaration, he is opting for humanity and mortality, for love and for pain and grief, instead of the immortality his grandfather can offer.
Somehow, some way, he is speaking neither in childish defiance, nor in the kind of proverb a boy his age could not realistically be expected to utter. He is speaking rawly and truly and sentimentally. His story contains a hard-won lesson for us all.
I don't say this lightly, and I don't say it because I've barely seen a decent movie in 2016: Kubo and the Two Strings is everything I hope for in a film.
Its characters are rich and textured, and their story is engrossing. Kubo is a young Japanese boy of mysterious parentage and magical powers, who sets off on a quest to find three pieces of armor that will protect him from his aforementioned grandfather, voiced by Ralph Fiennes, and his two aunts, both voiced by Rooney Mara, who seek to blind him (already having taken an eye from him at a young age) and bring him in to their immortal fold. His only two friends/protectors are a transformed Monkey, voiced by Charlize Theron, and a samurai Tin Man of sorts, Beetle, voiced by Matthew McCounaghey.
The particulars of his magical powers and the path of his quest allow Laika to flex their visual muscles in stunning fashion. There is the way Kubo turns origami paper in to a swirling, dizzying, levitating three-dimensional story merely by strumming his instrument. There is an ornate ship constructed entirely of fallen leaves and held together with magic. There is a massive skeleton with samurai swords stuck in its head that feels like a missing set piece from an unseen Indiana Jones film.
Somehow, all of this is possible with a combination of stop-motion animation and CGI. Were the story itself not so captivating, you might otherwise spend most of Kubo and the Two Strings wondering how the heck they did this or that or the other thing and be plenty amused.
Kubo has much in common with its fellow Laika Studios features (though upon first viewing, I would argue that it is clearly the best of the bunch). It is a little bit darker than most other family fare out there, a little bit more measured, a great deal less concerned with cheap parenthetical laughs that would more obviously cater to its most obvious intended audience.
It also has a ton in common thematically with Pixar's most recent smash hit, Inside Out. That film dealt with the not-so-kid friendly theme of embracing your emotions even when those emotions leave you feeling blue. And so it is with Kubo and the Two Strings, a film whose protagonist loses both of his parents (and more), and, yet, when offered a route away from all that heartache resolves to carry on. Kubo is a champion of the human spirit, despite all that happens to him and despite a very obvious way to escape it.
Kubo and the Two Strings isn't nearly as funny as Inside Out, but it is every bit as good. It doesn't have as much time for cheap laughs because so much of its energy is devoted to a heartfelt tale told with jawdropping visual wonder.
Unless you're the Moon King, this is a story you shouldn't have any trouble holding deep in your heart.


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The Westchester
Living Area: 2566 Square Feet
Total Area: 3438 Square Feet
3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, and a Study
All floor plans and exterior renderings are artist's conceptions and should not be relied upon. All dimensions are approximate. Floor plans, room sizes, exterior and standard features may vary based on the elevation and options selected. Citrus Hills Construction Company reserves the right to modify all plans and specifications.
Copyright 2019 Citrus Hills Construction, LLC

subset: commoncrawl


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Bexhill Museum�s First World War Question Time
Thursday 19th March 2015
Tickets: �2.50, available in advance from the Museum Front Desk.
Bexhill Museum is delighted to be working with Gateways to the First World War to present a First World War Question Time event on Thursday 19th March 2015 in the Education Room at the Museum. Just like Question Time on the television, the Museum will have a panel of experts ready to answer your questions on the First World War. Questions can also be submitted in advance to the Gateways Twitter account @GatewaysFWW.
On the panel will be: Chairman Dr Sam Carroll, Community Historian for the Gateways Project;
Dr Lucy Noakes, Reader in History at the University of Brighton and a member of the project team;
Dr Chris Kempshall, expert on East Sussex during the First World War and member of East Sussex County Council First World War website project;
Geoff Bridger, author of The Great War Handbook.
Claire Eden who led Bexhill Museum's successful Heritage Lottery Funded Bexhill Remembers project in 2014.
The panel will be available to meet participants at 12.30 when teas and coffees will be served. Questions start at 1pm.
The Gateways to the First World War project is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. Their expertise is in operational and military history, life on the home and fighting fronts, propaganda and persuasion, the medical history of the war and maritime and naval history.
This event gives Bexhill's family and local history enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in the Great War a rare opportunity to draw on the expertise of leading figures in the field.


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Get a Little Ice Cream Sandwich Now: Google Plus
With the next version of Android, code named Ice Cream Sandwich, nearing its release date, it should come as no surprise to pocketnow readers that bits and pieces are starting to leak.
Earlier today we told you about the leaked "Ice Cream Sandwich" version of Google Music. Now we've learned that the ICS version of the Google Plus app has been leaked as well.
Like the ICS version of Google Music, the ICS version of Google Plus is primarily just a face-lift, though some names have been changed.
A while ago the "Huddle" feature of Google Plus was quietly renamed to something more self-explanatory: "Messenger". For some reason that's been changed again. This time around it's called "Cords", which isn't self-explanatory at all.
We haven't found the .APK just yet. If you find it before we do, make sure to let us know in the comments!
Source: Android Police


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Did last week's story make you wonder, "Why all the interest in a 777 cubic feet freezer at Skyline"? (Read it here if you missed it.) Point in fact; in the past few weeks they were offered 22 pallets of meat by a retailer, which they had to turn down!
Look at it this way; roughly a cubic feet would supply free meat for a family for their shopping period (They can come to the FRC once a month if needed). Since the canned meat received by a family costs about $3, the freezer would pay for itself in about 5 months while providing patrons with a more nutritious, higher quality food items.
The Skyline Lenten Campaign will have a royal kick off on March 5th with the Mission Committee Annual Pancake Breakfast. Skyline staff members, identified by their red T-shirt, will be present to assist and answer your questions about all the programs they offer. All profits from the breakfast will go to Skyline.


text: The Hazy blanket is a woven black and white watercolor reminiscent of a landscape or a rugged coast. The blankets artistic inspiration of abstract paintings is underlined by its fluid and dynamic space of two tone shades. Fine pure sheep wool and the smooth color transitions give Hazy its lightness and tenderness. This luxurious and cozy blanket perfectly complements a wide variety of living spaces and can also be used as a stunning wall hanging. Hazy stays with you in cold winter days and chilly summer evenings to always keep you warm and comfortable all year round.


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The GNCC Club Insurance Program offers member clubs in good standing General Liability and Participant Accident insurance coverage at a favorable group rate. The Insurance Program Summary below details the coverage amounts and how the coverage works. Fill out the Insurance Application to join the GNCC Insurance Program.
The waivers are in Word format so you can customize them for your own club. Simply update the bold fields in the waivers.
We also provide insurance for the distinguished trophies of the Gordon Championship medal, Emmett Memorial medal, Canadian Branch trophy, Bell Quoits medal, Presidents trophy, and Mitchell medal. The GNCC insures the stone rental program as well.
For questions regarding our insurance program, please contact the GNCC Insurance Chair.
Insurance Program Summary
Insurance Application
Important Club Documents
Adult Insurance Waiver
Youth Insurance Waiver
Curling Accident Report


text: 3 Jar Gift Pack Your choice from our product range. £10.60 Which 3 Flavours Would You Like to Include?: Type Selections Here 300 characters left. Quantity: at £10.60 each Add To Basket Great gifts for birthdays, taking to relatives when visiting, Christmas pressies or just as "I saw this and thought of you". Choose 3 items from our range for your ideal gift pack. Will you go sweet, savoury or will you mix it up? Just add to your basket, go to check out and tell us what 3 jars you'd like in the special instructions box.


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Cod Liver Oil Products or Brands with Nutrient Levels
© Copyright Bee Wilder March 29, 2015
NOTE: Most people today are not able to meet all of the requirements for making vitamin D on their skin even in the Summer Months, see "Requirements for Making Enough Vitamin D from the Sun" below. Therefore, most people need to take cod liver oil (omega 3, and vitamins A and D) 12 months of the year.
Factors That Affect Vitamin D Levels
- Low Antioxidant levels, with natural animals fats being the best antioxidants for humans, i.e. butter, unrefined coconut oil, lard, tallow, chicken and goose fat, fish fat, etc. Most people today consume too many Unnatural Fats and Oils which damage the entire body at a cellular level, which means they cannot produce the kinds of fats their skin needs in order to make vitamin D from the sun. To understand the difference between natural and unnatural fats see Unnatural Fats & Oils Damage the Entire Body.
- Diet in general which needs to contain the combination of nutrients all Humans needs in order to be healthy at a cellular level, i.e. protein from meats and eggs, high natural fats, and low-carbs. Note: Carbs are any foods not classified as protein or fat.
Bee's Candida Program is an OVERALL Healing Program that improves anyone's health, as witnessed by these miraculous Success Stories. For an overall program that improves anyone's health (foods and supplements) read How to Successfully Overcome Candida.
- Eliminate as many toxins as possible, particularly in foods and drinks, and in skin care products (sunscreen and sunblock), lotion, makeup, etc., see Toxins – Environmental, Household and Personal Care.
- Age.
- Skin color (see below).
- Current tan level.
- Latitude and altitude (elevation, i.e. distance from the sun), with the Equator being the highest sun exposure.
- Cloud cover and pollution.
- Ozone layer.
- Surface reflection, since reflection off water or ice and snow intensifies sun exposure.
- Season.
- Time of day.
Requirements for Making Enough Vitamin D from the Sun
- Sun exposure must be done daily when not taking vitamin D supplements.
- A minimum of 40% of the body surface (skin) needs to be exposed to the sun.
- Exposure must be to prime midday sun (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) when the UBV rays are strongest; UBV are the kind of sun rays that produce vitamin D on the skin.
- Most people require 800 to 1,200 IU vitamin D minimum daily, in addition to vitamin D found naturally in foods. About 100 to 200 IU of vitamin D is produced for each 5 percent of body surface exposed.
- Light skinned people need 20 minutes of sun exposure daily, while dark skinned people need 90-120 minutes daily.
- Natural skin oil is critical to the absorption process since vitamin D is only formed on skin that has enough natural oil formed on its surface and if it stays on the skin long enough after exposure to the sun.
Chlorine in swimming pools, baths and showers strip away natural oils, and washing with soap removes oils from the skin. Therefore immediately after washing with soap and/or exposure to chlorinated water, chlorine and soap residue should be removed by applying unrefined coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil all over the skin's surface. That will allow natural oils to start being built up on its surface, which takes about 24 hours after removing residues, so you should plan your sun exposure accordingly.
Dr. Mercola claims that we need 48 hours "after proper sun exposure" in order to absorb vitamin D containing oils from the skin surface, so do not wash with chlorinated water, nor go into a chlorinated swimming pool, or wash with soap for two (2) days.
But remember, in order to get enough vitamin D you need daily exposure to the sun when you do not take vitamin D supplements.
This is why it is difficult, to almost impossible, for most people today to get enough vitamin D from sun exposure. Therefore taking cod liver oil is recommended all year, except for those "rare people" who are able to fulfill all of the requirements above.
Some people may worry that if they are in the sun a lot they will overdose on Vitamin D. However this doesn't happen, and here's why. When you're exposed to the sun, the UVB rays creates vitamin D on your skin, while the UVA rays in the sunlight will tend to destroy excessive levels of vitamin D circulating in your body. That means that even "if" you are taking vitamin D and also getting it from the sun, the UVA rays in sunlight won't allow you to have too much vitamin D.
When You Can Get Enough Vitamin D from the Sun
If you are one of those "rare" people who can meet all of the requirements above for making vitamin D on your skin, take the following:
Winter Months: Take cod liver oil in the Winter months when it is not possible to get enough vitamin D from sun exposure. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) and vitamins A and D. All of these nutrients work together and are important to obtain daily.
Summer Months: Take fish oil, which contains only omega 3 (EPA & DHA), along with vitamin A (retinol) when you "are" able to obtain enough vitamin D from sun exposure (see below). Vitamin A must be taken in addition to fish oil; buy a vitamin A product that does "not" contain vitamin D, found in halibut, cod, or shark "liver" oil capsules. Do not take other forms of vitamin A, which require conversion to the true form called "retinol" that some people aren't able to do. Fish livers produce "true" vitamin A (retinol) that does not require conversion in the body.
Sunscreen & Sunblock Products are Toxic
Excerpts from Sunblock Can Actually Increase Your Cancer Risk by Dr. Mercola.
The rising rate of skin cancer has put using sunscreen and sunblock right up there with flossing your teeth when it comes to healthy habits. In 2002, 50 percent–approximately 1.1 million cases–of all cancers in the United States were skin cancers, of which nearly 10,000 cases were fatal. It is easy to understand why many people have become fearful of the sun's warmth and glow.
However, it is not commonly appreciated, especially among traditional medical doctors, that the food you eat is far more important to the development of skin cancers than sun exposure.
At the beginning of 1900 we had very little processed vegetable oils in our diet. When vegetables oils are processed and refined and consumed in large amounts they can cause major health problems.
Most vegetables are very high in omega-6 fats. In the last 100 years the U.S. population has gone from consuming virtually no vegetable fats to consuming more than 70 pounds per year. Fats from corn oil, safflower, sunflower, sesame and other oils are virtually 100 percent omega-6 fats.
This high consumption of omega-6 fats totally distorts the important omega 6 to omega 3 ratio, and this ratio is one of the keys to obtaining any type of cancer, but especially skin cancer.
So not only will we benefit from consuming additional omega-3 fats, but it is vital to reduce the omega-6 vegetable oils as much as possible. Ideally, the ratio should be 1:1, but most Americans have a 15:1 ratio. The Japanese are the longest-lived culture on earth, and their ratio is about 3:1.
If you don't believe me on this one, I encourage you to check out one of the top cancer journal articles Cancer Res 2000 Aug 1;60(15):4139-45: "Epidemiological, experimental, and mechanistic data implicate omega-6 fat as stimulators and long-chain omega-3 fats as inhibitors of development and progression of a range of human cancers, including melanoma."
Ten years ago an Australian study showed a 40 percent reduction in melanoma (skin cancer) for those who were eating fish–and this was without any attention to lowering omega-6 fats.
Two years ago, the prestigious National Academy of Sciences published a comprehensive review showing that the omega 6:3 ratio was the key to preventing skin cancer development.
So, do I recommend you pop some fish oil pills and go out and get as much sun as you would like? Absolutely not.
You must exercise caution. At the beginning of the season go out gradually, perhaps as little as 10 minutes a day. Progressively increase your time in the sun so that in a few weeks, you will be able to have normal sun exposure with little risk of skin cancer. Remember to slowly expose your skin to the sun so your skin doesn't burn!
Also never use sunscreen or sunblock products nor any products that contain any kind SPF (sun protection factor). You can creatively use your clothing to block the sun's rays during your build-up time or use safe oils on your skin like unrefined coconut oil, which actually helps the skin build up natural oils.
The bottom line is: Avoid getting sucked into the hype that sunlight is dangerous. It is only dangerous if you are clueless about fat nutrition, which most medical doctors are.
The only risks from UVB rays are overexposure, which does nOt occur if you avoid getting sunburned and eat a healthy diet. All sunscreen products contain toxic chemicals that absorb through your skin, and interfere with your skin's ability to make vitamin D. Even more important, toxic chemicals add to your toxic burden which increases your cancer risk because it causes damage on a cellular level.
Unrefined Coconut Oil Sunscreen is Safe & Healthy
Excerpts from The Coconut Diet and Skin Health.
One of the most interesting facts about people who live in tropical climates like the Philippines, where the people are constantly exposed to the rays of the sun year round, is that skin cancer is almost unheard of in these places. In the US and Canada we are constantly warned about the dangers of exposure to the sun, and yet the sun helps our bodies produce much needed nutrients for our skin, such as Vitamin D, which has been shown to prevent cancer.
Once again we see that coconut oil is probably one of the main reasons people in tropical climates can spend so much time in the sun and not suffer from skin cancer. Coconut oil has wonderful antioxidant properties that protect the skin from toxic damage. Also, when coconut oil is consumed and used topically on our skin, it helps our bodies absorb other nutrients more effectively as well, such as Vitamin E, another powerful antioxidant nutrient that protects the skin.
Therefore, the safest and healthiest sunscreen to use is unrefined coconut oil, see How Do You Identify a Good Quality Coconut Oil? by Dr. Bruce Fife, an internationally recognized expert on the health and nutritional aspects of coconut and related products.
Recommended Daily Amounts of Omega 3, and Vitamins A & D
- Vitamin A: 20,000 IU – 30,000 IU
- Vitamin D: 800 IU – 1,200 IU
- Omega-3: 2,000 mg – 3,000 mg [EPA plus DHA]
Examples of Nutrient Variations in Cod Liver Oil Products
Unfortunately, as you can see from the brands listed below, levels of nutrients vary greatly from one brand/product to another.
There is no ideal product, however Arctic Cod Liver Oil by Nordic Naturals contains totally inadequate levels of vitamins A and D and it also contains orange oil and trace amounts of milk and soy, which are unacceptable.
Garden of Life is the closest to ideal, and it contains natural vitamins A & D.
Each product below contains notes on how much to take and additional supplements required. Please Note: Small amounts of vitamin E are added as a preservative.
Arctic Cod Liver Oil by Nordic Naturals
Arctic Cod Liver Oil – Not Recommended because it contains traces of milk and soy, and not enough vitamins A and D.
|1 tsp.
|2 tsp.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|Vitamin E
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Other Omega-3
|Total Omega-3
|Oleic Acid (Omega-9)
Ingredients: purified arctic cod liver oil, vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), 100% natural orange oil. No gluten, yeast, artificial colors or flavors. May contain traces of milk and/or soy derivatives.
Garden of Life, Olde World Icelandic Cod Liver Oil (glass bottle) – Highly Recommended!
There are two different formulas on bottles of Garden of Life Cod Liver Oil. Because of the differences in nutrient amounts, the recommended daily amount to take are different too! So please check the label on your bottle to determine whether it is the Old Formula or the New Formula and refer to the correct one below for recommended daily amounts.
- Old Formula Garden of Life CLO
Available at iHerb – $10.68 US for 8 fluid ounces (235 ml), which is about 15 tablespoons per bottle.
Revised March 3, 2011 to delete taking 2 tablespoons per day.
Daily Dose: Take 1 tablespoon plus a fish "liver" oil capsule that contains 10,000 IU vitamin A & 400 IU vitamin D, i.e. halibut, cod, or shark – see iHerb.
|1 tsp.
|2 tsp.
|1 tbl.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Total Omega-3*
*Other kinds of Omega-3s are included. Ingredients: Icelandic Cod Liver Oil, natural lemon essence, natural peppermint essence, alpha tocopherol (vitamin E).
- New Formula Garden of Life CLO
Available at iHerb – $10.68 US for 8 fluid ounces (235 ml), which is about 15 tablespoons per bottle.
Daily Dose: Take 2 teaspoons plus a fish "liver" oil capsule that contains 10,000 IU vitamin A (without vitamin D), i.e. halibut, cod, or shark – see iHerb.
|1 tsp.
|2 tsp.
|1 tbl.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Total Omega-3*
|1 tsp.
|2 tsp.
|1 tbl.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Total Omega-3*
Other Ingredients: Lemon and/or mint flavored.
Premier Quantum Norwegian Cod Liver Oil
Daily Dose: Take 1 teaspoon plus another Fish Oil supplement (softgel or liquid) that contains only Omega 3 (EPA plus DHA) so the total Omega 3 for the two supplements is 2,000 – 3,000 mg.
|1/2 tsp.
|1 tsp.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Total Omega-3
Other Ingredients: Radiant Life confirmed that their oil only contains Cod Liver Oil and vitamin E.
Twinlab, Norwegian Cod Liver Oil, Unflavored, 12 fl oz (355 ml)
Available at iHerb.
Daily Dose: take 2 teaspoons per day with 1 Vitamin A softgel/capsule, 10,000 IU (no Vitamin D).
|1 tsp.
|2 tsp.
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin D
|DHA (Omega-3)
|EPA (Omega-3)
|Total Omega-3
There are no other ingredients.


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|Sleeping Cat Asian Inspired Pin
Artwork Pin
For Pick-Me-Up Monday I thought I'd share a new piece that I finished this weekend, a sweet miniature art sculpture of a sleeping cat that I fashioned into a pin. I sculpted most of the scene using Fimo translucent clay over custom color blends dusted with pearl powders. The bamboo frame was created using a wonderful mold by Lisa Pavelka.
On Sale
This pin, as well as everything in my Young Creative shop, is on sale until Dec. 15. Just use the code YOUNGCREATIVE1 at checkout to get a 10% discount on your entire order.
My Inspiration
The inspiration for the piece comes from a beautiful Chinese painting, Cat, Rocks, and Peonies, that belongs to the Freer Gallery. I picked up a postcard featuring the work, and another of my favorites, the Japanese work, Puppies in the Snow, when we were living in Washington, D.C. I mounted the postcards on some mulberry paper and framed them together in an asian-themed stamped frame that I made especially for these works.
Happy Monday, I hope these sweet sleeping babies make you smile.


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- български (bg)
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- magyar (hu)
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- Nederlands (nl)
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- português (pt)
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The language guide for European business
Successful communication in your international trade
Publication metadata
This guide is about solving your company's language and communication problems. It offers your company advice on how to deal with the language and cultural issues that arise every day in international business. It will help you develop a strategy for dealing with communication problems in new or expanding markets in other countries. Companies which have adopted similar language management strategies for foreign markets are generally more successful and achieve greater export sales growth. The guide is produced by the European Commission's Directorate General for Education and Culture and is... part of the Commission's information initiative, following the 'PIMLICO' survey of best practice in European exporting SMEs designed to promote the greater use of languages and language management strategies by European companies in their international trade. Many examples of the best language management practice identified by the PIMLICO survey are quoted in this guide: you can find out more on the European Commission's 'Languages Mean Business' website: http://ec.europa.eu/languages/languages-mean-business.
- Published:
- Corporate author(s): Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture (European Commission) Themes: Business organisation and management, Terminology and linguistics
- Subject: business policy, communications policy, language policy, trading operation, use of languages
|Catalogue number
The print on demand version may be of a different presentation and quality than the original paper version.


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While everyone in my country is busy watching the Azkals vs Kuwait's team game, a bad news struck the international music industry. One of the leading singer of today's died last July 23, 2011 at her home in London. At the very young age of 27, Amy was gone. And police says that the cause of her death is still unknown, though rumors all over the globe says that it has something to do with her addiction.
A five-time Grammy winner, Amy has done a lot of things in the industry. Aside from composing songs, she's also one of the top singer of today's generation. And so this post is for her, for a great singer– thank you for sharing your talent to us. You'll always be remembered for your immense talent.


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A Perfect Haze The Illustrated History Of The Monterey International Pop Festival
Harvey Kubernik and Kenneth Kubernik
A Perfect Haze
The Illustrated History Of The Monterey International Pop Festival
review by Jon Kanis
(Santa Monica Press, Solana Beach, CA, 2011, 256 pages)
Book review [on page 26] for issue #33 [Spring/Summer 2012] of Ugly Things magazine [filed on March 9, 2012]
I think that maybe I'm dreaming… unless you were born before 1950 chances are pretty slim that you were in attendance at The Monterey International Pop Festival on the third weekend of June in 1967. There is a LOT of mythology (and a fair amount of hype) surrounding this hallowed occasion. When Monterey happened Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band had only been in the racks for a fortnight and it was in this cultural milieu that a couple of L.A. music biz entrepreneurs co-opted the locale for a one-day commercial concert with a financial coup d'état – morphing it into a three-day charity music festival that unflinchingly mirrored the zeitgeist and established the template (which persists to this day) for how to present big business rock and roll spectacle. Without Monterey you wouldn't have had Woodstock. Or Altamont.
So how did producer Lou Adler and Mamas And The Papas ringleader John Phillips end up pulling off this logistical impossibility? The answers are all here with the publication of Harvey and Kenneth Kubernik's A Perfect Haze, a glossy, coffee table scrapbook with a plethora of dazzling photos. There are cool period reproductions of concert programs, telegrams of artist confirmations, periodicals from '67 as well as a ton of fresh interviews that sit comfortably with eyewitness observations of the day. While a number of important players have written in their memoirs about what being at Monterey meant to them, no one has documented how the event came together and how what went on behind the scenes influenced what audiences saw from the main stage. For that reason alone A Perfect Haze is a vital and long overdue piece of rock archeology. Make no mistake, Monterey was a game changer and it tickles the funny bone to learn about the delicate dance of egos that managed to pull off this historic weekend. Rolling Stones manager Andrew Loog Oldham speaks dismissively about visiting San Francisco Chronicle writer Ralph J. Gleason in a public relations maneuver with Adler, Phillips and Derek Taylor to bridge the gap between the L.A. "contingency" and their suspect neighbors north in the Bay Area. "I did not take to him; he was like a schoolteacher I was lucky enough not to have. He almost gloated like he was marking our term papers, which of course he was."
Prior to arrival of A Perfect Haze the Monterey experience has been chiefly represented by the 1968 D.A. Pennebaker film Monterey Pop [greatly expanded in 2002 on The Criterion Collection edition] and the four-CD audio only box set that Rhino put out in 1992. Both of these documents offer up a generous amount of music but precious little context about how the event came together. With 31 different acts performing over three days the majority of the musicians are not represented in the original film. The Kubernik brothers' research shows that not everything was recorded on tape or captured on film. It would be great to find out what The Paupers or Beverly sounded like or if The Group With No Name was really as bad some folks have written. There are at least some cool photos of them in action.
Of course Monterey made the reputations of Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who and Otis Redding and it demonstrated to the world at large that you could put on a large spectacle and make a lot of money. The canniest move that Adler and Phillips pulled was turning the event into a charity to benefit music scholarship programs, a foundation that continues to this day. All of the artists involved at Monterey donated their services [they did get first class expenses covered] knowing full well that the resultant exposure would be priceless to their careers. Adler: "It wasn't about the weather or traffic jams. It was and will always be about the music." A Perfect Haze doesn't let you hear the music, but the historical significance of the Monterey International Pop Festival sings throughout these pages and it sets the record straight on what an important and vital time this was as rock and roll came of age and had the greatest coming out party ever.


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"Good news, everyone!"
If you heard that in the voice of Dr. Farnsworth, then you're my kind of people.
But seriously ... good news! I've officially outlined the first three chapters and most of the fourth chapter of "Children of Light." Not as exciting as saying "I've officially WRITTEN the first three chapters," but we take what victories we can. And that's one.
I know, in general, where this story is going. But then it went and surprised me. A character I practically introduced as a throwaway has snuck up from behind to take a prominent role. There's also a series of events opening up that should twist this story in a way no one (even me) is expecting!
I'm very glad I took the time to re-read and re-edit the first two books. I stumbled onto a few handy story bits that I think I would have forgotten otherwise. But as I start digging into this book, I'm thrilled to see the potential in the story. And I'm more than a little happy to be in the company of characters I've grown to love. Mitch, Thomas, Reilly, Penny, Somar, Alan, and even Taggart are all there, waiting for me to come around to play once again. It's been too long.
So there we go. The first official update on the actual progress of the actual book, a long time in coming. The outline is moving along at a pace I expected, and I'm excited about the story again.
I've had a couple of people do me the solid of pointing out questions they had from the first two books, and I think I will be able to answer those in Book 3 with no trouble. If there's anything YOU remember, any question that you would like to see answered, let me know!
And if you haven't read either Citadel book, now's your chance! Visit the Citadel page for links to pick it up on Amazon, in either print or Kindle editions. And if you read a Nook or any other ebook reader, visit BN.com or Smashwords to find the version that works for you!
Be sure to sign up for my mailing list below, to stay updated on Citadel and everything else that comes out of my brain.


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Copper Saucepan - Medium
Copper Saucepan - Medium
Made in France
Crafted by Mauviel. Measures 16 cm in diameter, 2 quart. Made of copper with a stainless steel interior. Fitted with a brass handle. Lid is included. Mauviel M250, 250mm thickness. Professional grade copper!
This copper sauce pan is essential in the kitchen. We use it to blanch vegetables, poaching pears, and for making sauces.
For care, please visit Product Care.


text: Jacqueline Leighton Boyce- 12 Artists, 12 Days {Day 4} September 17, 2014 This beautiful work of Jacqueline Leighton Boyce makes me crave access to a kiln again. You can find some of my clay bowls here, soon I shall have a kiln again and strive to create such beautiful pieces as these. In the meantime go and have a closer look at Jacqueline's work (there are a few pieces on my wish list) here www.jacquelineleightonboyce.co.uk


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Displaying: News Content, 2018
#18From2018 20/12/18
With the final BUCS fixtures of 2018 taking place yesterday, we reflect on 18 BUCS moments from 2018
BUCS Active Phase 2 Funded Projects Announced 20/12/18
18 universities have been successful in receiving BUCS Active funding linked to projects tackling inactive female students and using physical activity to tackle mental health issues. Collectively these universities will be receiving £160,000 to support activity aimed at targeting over 5,400...
A Tribute to Bill Slater, CBE 19/12/18
It is with great sadness that BUCS reports the passing of former University of Birmingham Director of Physical Education, William (Bill) Slater on the morning of Tuesday 18 December
World University Games 2019 - Swimming Selection Criteria 19/12/18
The Selection Criteria for Swimming at the World University Summer Games is now available to view. Click here for further information.
Date Change: BUCS Tennis Individual Championships Doubles Finals 17/12/18
The 2019 BUCS Tennis Individual Championships doubles finals will take place on the weekend 23 – 24 March 2019 at Nottingham Tennis Centre.
World University Games 2019 - Table Tennis Selection Criteria & Nominations 17/12/18
The Selection Criteria for Table Tennis at the World University Summer Games is now available to view and Nominations are now open. Click here for further information.


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This is the most used and fastest growing method in today's construction industry. More owners are favoring a single point of contact for the design, permits, and construction of their project, which simplifies the process by having only one organization responsible for the design, engineering and construction. Design/Build allows owners to be able to work with just one company in dealing with design revisions, project feedback, budgeting, permitting, construction procedures and billing.
At Badgerland Buildings, Inc., the majority of our projects are design / build which enables our customers to work with our subcontractors and our in house design team during the early stages of planning. This offers a great deal of flexibility which allows our customers to benefit by continually refining the design to maximize the value at projects' end.
This traditional method is used typically when the owner prefers to work with an independent architect firm and select or invite certain general contractors to work with the owner and architect on the project based off of the plans and specifications. Acting as the general or prime contractor, we are then responsible for the complete execution of the project in accordance with the contract documents. In many cases, we work closely with the architect to ensure the most efficient means and methods are used for completing the project on time and within budget.
Badgerland Buildings, Inc., also provides a per-design service where we can assist in providing the most accurate estimation of budget and scheduling during the design to help establish project goals at an early stage. After we are selected as the General Contractor for the project, we then work closely with our own crews and subcontractors to guarantee quality standards and ensure that the timeline and budget are met.
Our Construction Management services are a professional practice for construction projects, through the planning, design, and construction phases for the purpose of achieving project objectives of quality, cost, time and scope. Our Construction Managers create and maintain schedules and take the necessary actions to promote the successful execution of projects for owners. Few owners maintain the staff resources necessary to pay close, continuing attention to every detail--yet these details can "make or break" a project. Our management team is willing to assist the owner's staff with pre-planning, design, construction, engineering and management expertise that can assure the best possible project outcome.
Value engineering is typically used when the projected cost of the project comes in over budget. Some independent architect and engineering firms may specify products and construction procedures that can be costly and time consuming. Badgerland Buildings can examine alternatives and search to find the "second right answer" that most often reduces costs, but also seeks to maintain or improve performance and quality. Our team of professionals can analyze any project to find the best balance between the projects functions and cost.
Badgerland Buildings, Inc. offers a varity of services in the early planning stages of any construction project.
- Site Selection – Badgerland Buildings, Inc. can assist with site selection or evaluation of a selected site which would include a review of local zoning, covenants, site access, utilities, soil conditions, and future expansion needs.
- Preliminary Design & Estimates - After these site conditions are verified, we can begin the preliminary design which includes a site plan, floor plan, and elevations which can also include estimated costs for the entire project.
- Government Review & Financing - If the owner chooses to proceed further with the planning process Badgerland Buildings, Inc. will coordinate meetings with city and other government officials as necessary for the approval of the project and assist with the necessary documents for project financing.


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Saturday, January 4, 2014
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Mom and son circa 1983 (first post of the new year!)
Jiro is my japanese brother (long story) and suffice it to say that he was (and still is!) a huge Buddy Love fan. He is also an artist and at the time made some interesting caricatures of me and the band. Check em out!
Posted by Doug at 8:52 AM
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So like I said, by 12pm on Thursday my support system was by my side awaiting the arrival of Adrianna. Joe's parents were with us, it was nice that they dropped everything to come help us out for a couple of weeks. So at 12pm I was checked and was told that I was already 2 CM dilated, this is before given any meds, so my body must have been aware that baby had to begin her entrance into the world....who knows why I was dilated....anyway I was about 30% effaced (the thinning out of the cervix) so they gave me this medication called Cytotec which helps thin out the cervix. The nurse Patricia, I will NEVER forget her name, explained that if I were to be given Pitocen without having a thinned out cervix I would be having contractions for no reason because the baby would not be able to come down. By 4pm I was checked again and I was now 40% effaced, they began the dreaded medicine that is Pitocin. Pitocin is a synthetic form of oxytocin which is the naturally occurs in a woman's body when labor begins. It also hurts more to have labor started for you with medicine other than your body doing it naturally, so I've heard, all I know it hurt like hell! An IV is attached with Pitocin dripping at the rate of 5mm.....it can go up to a maximum of 20mm before they start thinking about C-section if I do not progress. A couple of hours go by, we eat dinner...me a special diabetic diet =/ at least I don't have to take insulin any more, and I am checked again. Each time I am checked for dilation and progress it feels like someone is stabbing my vagina and all they are doing is using their fingers to press around in there, graphic I know but you need to know the truth. I am now 4CM dilated and 50% effaced. At this point it is 6pm and I'm thinking "wow this may happen tonight!" Ummm, no I was wrong.
It is about 9pm when Joe's parents leave so now we are both alone. I am not having any contractions and Pitocin is pumped up to 15mm. The labor and Delivery beds are hard as a rock! The most uncomfortable I have ever layed on. They have to be like that in case the doctors and nurses have to use force or I have to go into surgery. I have to sleep on this all night, god help me. My back has been killing me at this point because I have to sit in bed all day with monitors strapped on to me checking the movements and heartbeat of the baby and my contractions which are non-existent. I cant even roll onto my side because if I move they lose the baby's heartbeat and alarms go off so they have to reposition the monitors etc....such a hassle. So I get no sleep at all. Around 2AM the OB on call comes to check me and I am still 4CM but now 80% effaced.....FML this baby is never coming out is what I am thinking. Around 7am I get a new nurse and she pretty much tells me that at the rate I am going I am not giving birth for a couple of days....seriously was that necessary to say to me! ugh....At this point I was just tired and cranky with what felt like menstrual cramps and Adrianna seemed to not want to make her grand entrance.
12:30pm Joe's parents return with lunch, I can't eat because while I am on Pitocin I can have nothing but liquids, so I sip my diet ginger ale with thoughts of burgers in my head.....I really wanted a burger and I will never forget that intense craving. My original nurse came back and said, "wow the Pitocin is going to be pumped up to 20mm and you do not look like you re in labor." I was watching A Baby Story on TLC for some inspiration, and the nurse said, "that is what you should look like right now" the lady was in screaming pain on TV, I was laughing and talking in no pain....this is going to take forever. The nurse asked if I wanted an epidural since Anesthesia was on the L&D floor at the time for a C-section. I said no because I truly was not in any pain at all. The nurse said the next step would be to break my water and see what happens after. She said that would happen around 4:30pm. I thought "OK how bad can that be" omg I now know just how bad it can be.
5:30pm and my OB Dr. Cole comes in and says "OK time to break your water." She does what she needs to so and immediately after I have the most extremely painful contraction that I have ever felt! It feels like I am being stabbed! I can't breathe, they give me oxygen and tell me to take deep breaths....I can't even talk at that point. Every contraction lasted 2 minutes and they came every minute and a half, after 3 of those I scream for an epidural....the anesthesiologist thinks this is the perfect time to begin asking me questions about my medical history, I yell at him, he seems annoyed, I say "does it look like I can answer that right now!" He leaves haha. He comes back and tells me I have to sit on the edge of the bed, I can hardly move at that point and sitting is putting pressure right where all the extreme pain is coming from. I have nothing to brace myself on and the pain is coming quickly and frequently and it is burning like crazy! Right before my water was broken I was 5 Cm dilated....I got the epidural, the nurse said I can now relax and take a nap and I think "I cant wait for relief!" It is still hurting though so the nurse says it takes about 15 minutes for the epidural to work. It has been about 3 minutes and I tell the nurse that I feel pressure like I have to poop and her facial expression was priceless....she said "omg I need to page the Dr." I am checked and within 5 minutes I went from 5 to 10 CM and I am still not numb so I feel everything! No time to relax, I had to start pushing immediately after getting the epidural. 4 pushes, burning pain, and Adrianna was born. The pain is immediately gone and I am now hysterically crying because I can hear her crying! That right there made all the pain and grief of pregnancy and delivery worth it....it is so true! I hear when the nurses weigh her, 1925 grams 4 lbs 4oz 17 inches.....my heart drops, I can't believe she really weighs 4 lbs I am in shock. Joe and his mom say she is perfect and beautiful, I haven't seen her yet so I am still scared at her weight. When the nurses are done and they wrap her up I finally get to hold her for the first time. And at that moment I fell in love with the most beautiful, perfect, tiny little peanut I have ever seen....she looked just like her daddy <3
She went to the Special Care Nursery, never nursed but she did drink my breast milk through a bottle, smiled for the first time on July 13th, pooped for the first time on July 11th, was rushed to Boston's Children's Hospital for a possible digestive system injury which ended up being a milk allergy which they deemed Allergic Colitis paired with milk allergy and she was sent back to Winchester Hospital 4 days later. She was sent home with us on July 21st and has been thriving ever since. We bottle feed her a special formula called Neocate which is very hypoallergenic and she no longer has any issues. She is funny, smiles all the time, is growing, and is the joy of our lives!
That is my pregnancy recap and I am hoping not to have to recap another pregnancy for quite some time. Now I can start blogging about our everyday lives with Adrianna...I will leave you with some pictures:
|At Boston Children's Hospital (One week old)
|Apple picking (2 1/2 months old)
|First family picture! (1 month old)
|Back at Winchester Hospital (about 9 days old)
|2 months old and wearing 0-3 month sized clothes!
|Joe and his little princess at Honey Pot Hill Orchards (2 1/2 months old)
|Most recent family picture! (2 1/2 months old)
|Tummy Time! (2 1/2 months old)


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‹ Return to Qatari NH90s under contract
October 2019Cover star of the October issue of AFM is the Su-24 – a type that was of significant operational value to the Soviet Union during the latter years of the Cold War, but which is still relevant today. The Fencer bomber/recce fleets still hold their place in Russian service and the ageing type has performed fairly well in the Syrian campaign, as Alexander Mladenov discovers. Echoes of the Cold War are apparent in Sweden too, where we profile the Swedish Air Force's first expansion in almost two decades. Elsewhere in Europe, Swiss Air Force planners are busy thinking about a replacement for their trusted F/A-18C/D Hornets, as Peter M Gunti reports. Other fighter types this month include the Spanish Air Force Typhoon, as the air arm masters its swing-role capabilities, embarks on an ambitious upgrade programme and even eyes further orders. There's also a report from Transylvania, where Câmpia Turzii air base hosted a Theater Security Package of US Air Force Reserve Command F-16s. On the industry side, Vladimir Trendafilovski reports from the shores of the Black Sea, where the state-owned Odessa Aircraft Plant continues a long tradition of aircraft and engine repair and overhaul. In Latin America, meanwhile, this year's F-AIR Colombia show was dominated by celebrations for the centenary of the Colombian Air Force. Trainers new and old are featured in the form of the Polish Air Force's M-346 advanced jet. We also begin a two-part review of the RAF Tucano's retirement, as Derek Bower charts the history of the aircraft that helped to train most of today's RAF frontline fast-jet pilots. Air Power Association President, Air Marshal (ret'd) Greg Bagwell CB CBE, continues the theme as he focuses on the aircrew element at the heart of every first-class air force's training system.
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Session 9: ICTs for learning and teaching
Moderator: Ashok Jhunjhunwala | Discussant: Sujata Gamage Enumerating the obstacles of accelerating the use of digital classroom: Lessons from Bangladesh Md Abu Read more
Moderator: Ashok Jhunjhunwala | Discussant: Sujata Gamage Enumerating the obstacles of accelerating the use of digital classroom: Lessons from Bangladesh Md Abu Read more
Moderator: Olivier Nana Nzepa | Discussant: Alison Gillwald Enhancing affordability of roof-top solar using communications Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prabhjot Kaur slides | paper Read more
The O.S. Braunstein Prize for the best student research paper in telecommunications and ICTs will again be awarded at the PTC'10 Conference, January 17-20, 2010. This award is valued at over $1700, and includes $500 in cash, conference registration, and up to $1,000 for travel and accommodation to attend and present at the PTC'10 Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Papers presented at PTC'10 may also be invited for inclusion in a refereed special issue of Telecommunications Policy.
To be considered for this award and possible publication in Telecommunications Policy, please visit www.ptc.org and click on the PTC'10 "Call for Participation" tab to see potential topic areas. Click on "Submit a Proposal" to learn more details about the student research paper prize.
Full paper submissions are due August 3, 2009
Unpublished, original empirical papers are invited for the forthcoming international workshop on ICTs and Development:
The workshop aims to provide a forum for scholars to share their empirical research with academic experts, policymakers, and activists from the regional and international development community.
Papers should examine how mobile phones, computers, and the Internet influence the empowerment of marginal individuals and communities, including whether ICTs create and enhance livelihood opportunities for people in the developing world.
Papers should be in the range of 5,000-8,000 words (including abstract and bibliography) and should include a clear discussion of the implications of the findings for development policy and/or practice.
No more than twelve papers will be selected by the workshop organizers for presentation. The first author of each paper chosen will be given air fare and lodging/meals.


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Originally developed in the 1920s as summer cottages on marshy infill, the bungalow courts of Sheepshead Bay are organized around internal mews that now stand at 4 feet below the street level as a consequence of the construction of the Coney Island Sewage treatment Plan, which entailed raising the surrounding grid.
As illustrated here for Stanton Court, the mews were damaged by Sandy; but they also flood with every heavy rainfall.
Working with the Pratt Center for several years after Sandy hit in 2012, we helped court residents work together on common plans to leverage their individual investments. This is a longstanding community of homeowners who to insure the environmental safety and economic well-being of their neighborhood for years to come.
Because the homes are under-performing, fragile, and therefore difficult to raise, there are incentives for collectively lifting them and replacing them with a net-zero prefabricated alternative. (for more on the houses see 'Bungalows for Sheepshead' under 'Architecture')
A collective raised boardwalk provides ADA access to the homes that would be impossible to implement within each small property. It also provides new social space with a monumental deck and shared solar array.
Raising the houses in synchrony to the Design Flood Elevation also allows the redesign of the existing landscape for collective water management infrastructure.
In collaboration with Jason Loiselle / Sherwood Engineering, we developed a plan encompassing all the courts that creates sequences of smaller and larger wetlands in relation to a renewed shoreline.
The ultimate master plan would group the bungalows on the higher ground in denser configurations in order to free the ground needed to deal with upland flooding from rain and shore inundation. The by-product would be an increase in community parkland, which is now scarce. Only this scale of planning will make the neighborhood truly sustainable.
To learn more about this project:
Listen to: WNYC, Matt Schuerman's piece It Really Does Take a Village to Rebuild After Sandy: http://www.wnyc.org/story/it-really-does-take-a-village-to-rebuild/
Read: "The Courts of Sheepshead," Boundaries 111 ; "Provisional Coastlines," Ground Rules, Alice Chun, ed. Wiley AD; "Sheepshead Rising," Denise Brandt ed., Waterproofing New York


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But the anti-surge technology may be prohibitively expensive for rural residents.
APRIVATE company has begun importing products to protect people and property from lightning strikes following an increase in electrical storms in recent wet seasons.
Ret Chantha, managing director of Dynamic E-Group Limited (DEG), said a reported increase in lightning deaths had prompted him to begin importing lightning protection devices.
"I am importing the products to prevent lightning deaths, which are higher than expected," he said Wednesday.
He said DEG's Voltage and Surge Protection Systems, imported from Spain, were designed to be installed in buildings to prevent lightning strikes within a radius of about 120 metres.
He said they could also protect electrical equipment from surges.
"These products don't impact the environment and are not dangerous for people and animals," he said.
"We can use them anywhere: in buildings, houses, schools and offices. They can prevent lightning 100 percent."
But the new devices don't come cheap. Prach Meanith, product manager at DEG, said the price would depend on the size of the building in question but noted that a device for a three-storey building measuring 6 metres by 12 metres would cost around US$2,000.
"We have a lot of clients, especially the high-level building engineers [who] know this product well and trust in it," he said.
Rising toll
Ros Sovann, a consultant at the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM), said lightning killed 107 people in Cambodia while injuring 43 in just the first six months of 2009. The figures marked a dramatic increase from last year, in which lightning strikes led to 95 deaths and 22 injuries the entire year.
Kampong Cham, Prey Veng and Kampong Speu have been the provinces most heavily hit by lightning in the first half of the year.
Ing Heng, deputy dean of the faculty of science at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said lightning injuries had increased in the past 20 or 30 years due to the clearance of large trees, which tend to attract strikes.
"Before we had lightning in the forest. Empty rice fields haven't got big trees, so it is happening to people," he said.
Ros Sovann added that the lightning protection devices coul play an important role in heading off deaths and injuries, but he said people in the most affected areas might not be able to afford the new devices.
"I think that if we use those products as a standard we could avoid lightning problems altogether, but it might take a long time for people in rural areas," he said.


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Hallways are the most well trodden path in any home, so regardless of whether you have a small hallway or a large vestibule that doubles as a separate room in it's own right, it is worthwhile taking your time to consider your flooring options. It makes sense to go for something hardwearing, that is easy to clean and maintain and will stand the test of time no matter how many times you change the decor, so if you are looking for inspiration check out our pick of the 10 best hallway flooring ideas.
You've decided on flooring options for the main rooms of your home, but have you customized your hallways yet? Whether you choose vinyl flooring or a show- stopping tile, be sure this area is complete with the perfect flooring option. Read below to learn more:
First of all consider the age and style of your property. Traditional materials such as wood and tiles are ideal choices for a period home, while polished concrete or painted floors are better suited to more contemporary properties. Flagstones and old bricks look lovely in quaint country cottages, but for a more upmarket elegant feel a black and white chequerboard tile design is the perfect choice in a classic townhouse.
The colour of your choice of flooring is also important dependant on the size of your hallway. Dark polished wooden floors or deep red terracotta tiles will make a small hall appear smaller, while stripped lighter wood or neutral coloured tiles will help to enhance the feeling of space when combined with a white or cream decorating scheme.
Bear in mind that there are lots of different materials to choose from, so if you have set your heart on a wooden floor but need something that is easier to keep clean there are porcelain tiles available that mimic the effect of wooden planks in a variety of colours and finishes.
Complement a rich and luxurious colour scheme, such as this exotic plum feature wall, with dark wooden floors. A deep, polished glow adds a touch of glamour to a traditional hallway and pairs well with black gloss furniture.
Vinyl floor tiles are a stylish and practical choice for a hallway.
MORE: Hallway flooring ideas | Ideal Home


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Self Catering in Highlands and Islands - Embo
Areas: Sutherland, Highlands and Islands
Heatherwood House
Highlands and Islands
Booking through:
Sleeps a maximum of: 10
Pricing From: £586.00 - 1228.00
Set within two miles of the stunningly beautiful white sandy beaches of Embo and Dornoch a Royal Burgh since 1628 this spacious and very well appointed property is ideal for larger parties. Enjoying exceptionally large living areas featuring wooden flooring and very comfortable furnishings Heatherwood House stands only 1½ miles from shops bars and restaurants in the thriving small town of Dornoch where a pleasant circular walk passes the Old Town Jail and the 13th century cathedral (famously chosen by Madonna for her son's Christening pictured) before going on past the Royal Durnoch championship golf course and the beach up to the pier at the seaside village of Embo.
Nearby the Loch Fleet nature reserve (a designated SSSI) attracts a wide variety of wading birds and guided tours of this wonderfully tranquil tidal basin can be arranged. The Sutherland hills are a short drive away and there are forest walks nearby. Just 10 miles away lies Dunrobin Castle spiritual home of the clan Sutherland since the 13th century. Today's visitors can enjoy falconry displays and wander through spectacular gardens designed by Sir Charles Barry and inspired by the Palace of Versailles. For whisky enthusiasts Glenmorangie distillery tours at Tain are a must.
Sitting room with wooden floors wood burning stove and sun room. Spacious kitchen with dining area TV and doors to patio. Utility room. Master double bedroom with 5' bed and ensuite shower room/WC. Double bedroom with zip and link bed (twins by arr) and ensuite shower room/WC. Twin bedded room. Double bedroom. Bathroom/WC with separate shower cubicle and bidet.
- Linen (duvets) and towels inc
- Elec and full oil underfloor CH inc
- Logs foc
- 2 TVs
- Freeview
- Music system
- Microwave
- Dishwasher
- F/freezer
- Auto wm
- T/dryer
- Highchair
- Hairdryer
- 2 Z beds (for + 2 children)
- Parking
- Garden with patio and furniture
- Barbecue
- Easy walking access
- Pets - 2 dogs max
Get an Ordnance Survey map covering the Embo area.
Nearest AttractionsHeritage Rated from 1- 5 (low-exceptional) on historic interest
Dunrobin Castle - 6.6 miles (Historic House)
Carn Liath Broch - 6.7 miles (Prehistoric Site)
Tarbat Old Parish Church - 8.3 miles (Historic Church)
Fearn Abbey - 8.6 miles (Abbey)
Hilton of Cadboll Chapel - 10.2 miles (Historic Church)
Shandwick Stone - 11 miles (Prehistoric Site)
Nigg Old Kirk & Pictish Stone - 12.4 miles (Historic Church)
Hugh Miller's Cottage - 15.1 miles (Museum)
Cromarty Courthouse Museum - 15.1 miles (Museum)
Gates of Negapatam (Fyrish Monument) - 18.2 miles (Historic Building)
Nearest Alternative Cottages
Dornoch, Highlands and Islands
Sleeps: 5
Stay from: £300.00 - 685.57
Dornoch, Highlands and Islands
Sleeps: 6
Stay from: £373.00 - 1914.00
Dornoch, Highlands and Islands
Sleeps: 2
Stay from: £250.00 - 275.00
Details of facilities are believed correct at time of publication, but may be subject to change by the cottage proprietor. Up-to-the-minute facility listings will be always presented during the booking process for your approval.
UK Self Catering
England - Scotland - Wales
Popular Locations
Devon - Cornwall - Lake District - Highlands - North Wales - South West Wales


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PUMPKIN GOOEY BUTTER CAKE — This easy pumpkin cake starts with a boxed cake mix and canned pumpkin puree for a delicious fall dessert everyone will love!
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a quick and easy pumpkin dessert that my whole family loves. Even my my husband, who doesn't typically like pumpkin desserts, likes this one.
I happen to love pumpkin desserts, so I'm always looking for pumpkin recipes that my husband and kids enjoy too. Otherwise, I'd be eating an entire pan of Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake by myself.
I love gooey butter cakes and this pumpkin version does not disappoint. I made it last Thanksgiving and it was gone within minutes. ~ Shannon
This is a great recipe if you're intimidated by the idea of making a pumpkin pie. And even if you're a pumpkin pie making pro, this recipe is a wonderful, easy alternative.
I would even go so far as to say I like it more than traditional pumpkin pie. And I really like traditional pumpkin pie!
I liked to serve this dessert chilled, and once it's cold, you can eat it with your hands, like a brownie. Although it really is delicious with a big dollop of whipped cream, in which case, I recommend using a plate.
This is a great alternative to pumpkin pie, especially if you are serving a crowd, because you'll get about twice as many servings with this dessert as you would with a traditional pie.
I've made this and it's dangerous!! So addicting. ~ Half Baked
I like to think of it as a delicious hybrid of cake and pumpkin pie. It's like getting two desserts in one!
If you'd rather not use a boxed cake mix for the crust, a made-from-scratch shortbread base is also delicious.
Be sure to save this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake recipe to your favorite Pinterest board for later.
Here's what you'll need to make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
- Yellow cake mix
- Eggs
- Butter
- Canned pumpkin
- Cream cheese
- Vanilla
- Powdered sugar
- Spices: nutmeg, cinnamon
Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
This easy pumpkin cake starts with a boxed cake mix and canned pumpkin puree for a delicious fall dessert everyone will love!
- 1 (18.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
- 1 egg
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 (15 oz.) can of pumpkin
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- To make the crust, combine the cake mix, egg and 8 tablespoons of melted butter and mix well. Pat the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the filling by beating the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and butter and mix together.
- Stir in the powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. Do not over bake, as the center should be a little gooey.
Nutrition Information:Yield: 16 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 319 Total Fat: 16g Saturated Fat: 9g Trans Fat: 1g Unsaturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 82mg Sodium: 365mg Carbohydrates: 42g Fiber: 1g Sugar: 28g Protein: 3g
Never miss a Let's Dish Recipe:
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If you love this recipe, you might also like:
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Frosting
Pumpkin Streusel Muffins
Who Dished It Up First: This is a Paula Deen recipe that I found over at Baked Perfection.


text: "I'll wait for you under the bluebells. I'll be there always." Kim Harrison It's hard not to be happy when you are surrounded by this intense beauty. All on my doorstep too. I may moan about the English weather being an antipodean, but then there is nothing quite like the ancient magic of an English spring. Comment


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Guest blog by Kent P. Jackson, professor of ancient scripture.
This month we celebrate the 179th anniversary of something that most Latter-day Saints take for granted. It was in June 1830, just two months after the Church was organized, that the Prophet Joseph Smith began working on his Bible translation. Today we usually call it the Joseph Smith Translation—JST for short—but the Prophet himself called it the New Translation. The first nineteen pages, revealed between June 1830 and the end of that year, contain his revision of the first few chapters of Genesis. When the Pearl of Great Price was created in 1851, those Genesis chapters were included in it, and they're still there today. It is the Book of Moses.
Is there anything new in the New Translation? Let's take a look at just one chapter, the very first chapter of the translation, revealed in June 1830.
What we now call Moses chapter 1 is the text of a vision that Moses experienced before the Lord revealed to him the account of the Creation. It is thus the preface to the book of Genesis. This is one of the most remarkable chapters in scripture, and it is full of doctrines that set Latter-day Saints apart from all other Bible believers. Although Moses's vision is a biblical event and takes place in a biblical context, there is no record of it in the Old Testament. It has no biblical counterpart at all. But it is one of the great gems of the Restoration—a real pearl of great price.
In this one chapter, we learn a lot.
Moses speaks with God "face to face" in terms that indicate strongly that God indeed has a face. We learn of God's Only Begotten Son. As the Father speaks with Moses and teaches him of Jesus Christ, we are reminded in clear scriptural terms that the Father and the Son are separate divine beings. We also learn something of ourselves, that we—left to our own resources—are "nothing," yet we are sons and daughters of God created in the image of his Only Begotten, endowed with enormous potential.
We learn about God's glory, the celestial power that emanates from him and surrounds him. Humans must be transfigured to abide God's glory, but Satan can only feign having it and possesses none of it himself. We see God and Satan juxtaposed in striking contrast, and we learn that Satan has a pathological need to be worshipped and seeks only his own interests.
We learn something of God's power and of the awesomeness of his creations. Moses, enveloped in God's glory, was able to see every particle of this earth and to discern every soul on it. He was even shown other inhabited worlds—worlds without number. He learned that Christ is the Creator of all those worlds, and he learned that God's work and glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of his children who dwell thereon.
Needless to say, none of this was the standard fare of mainstream Christianity in June 1830 when the Lord revealed these things to Joseph Smith.
Indeed, there is much new in the New Translation. But that was only the first chapter.


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Want to make your life easier by moving from on-prem to the cloud, but don't know where to start? There's a Quest for that. The Baseline: Infrastructure Quest gives you hands-on practice with GCP's core infrastructure services like Cloud IAM, Kubernetes, and Stackdriver. Enroll in the Quest by Monday, September 24th you'll get a 1-month pass (free of charge, no CC required) to earn the badge and show your "flight time" with Google Cloud.
Even better, each lab in the Quest has 1-minute videos to walk you through key concepts for each lab. Here are some of the labs in the Quest:
- Cloud Storage: Qwik Start – Console: Use the Google Cloud Platform Console to create a storage bucket, upload objects, create folders & subfolders, and then make those objects publicly accessible.
When you've created a bucket & uploaded an object into the bucket, you can check your progress:
Ensure that you've understood each concept by answering multiple choice questions:
How did you do? Share your results @Qwiklabs. Need extra help? Watch Jenny as she walks you through this lab.
- Cloud IAM: Qwik Start: Cloud IAM unifies access control for GCP services into a single system and presents a consistent set of operations. Learn to create and manage permissions with this lab. You'll assign and remove roles associated with Identity and Access Management (IAM).
When you've removed project viewer access for a user with IAM, you should see a similar permission error:
If not, let Jenny come to your rescue in this video!
- Kubernetes Engine: Qwik Start: After you've created a cluster, you'll execute kubectl run command to create a new Deployment, hello-server, using the hello-app container image. Before you can inspect the hello-server service, you'll need to expose your application to external traffic:
If you're unable to view the application from your web browser using the external IP address with the exposed port, let Jenny help you!
- Deployment Manager: Qwik Start: Since Deployment Manager is an infrastructure deployment service that automates the creation and management of GCP resources, you can write configuration files for Cloud Storage, Compute Engine, Cloud SQL, etc.
In this lab, you'll write a file to create & deploy configuration, inspect the running environment and view the deployment manifest. While waiting to deploy your configuration, you'll see a status message:
Don't see it? Jenny can help you with this lab too!
Why wait? Enroll now before 2020 hits, and your server closet in the back room is still humming (:


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How to Find Information on the Etsy Blog
Etsy's blogs contain lots of useful information for Etsy sellers. Maybe you're looking for tips to improve your Etsy shop. Or perhaps you want to explore a new craft medium. Or maybe you want a glimpse into the lives of other Etsy sellers.
These blogs (there are various editions: Etsy Blog, Etsy News Blog, and Seller Handbook, plus international editions) act like community newspapers of sorts, serving up loads of fresh content daily. There's also a special Etsy Weddings Blog.
To access Etsy's blogs, simply hover your mouse pointer over the Blogs link that appears in the upper-left corner of any Etsy page; then click the blog you want to visit from the list that appears.
Etsy has organized its main blog, the Etsy Blog, into several handy sections to help you find the info you need. Simply click a section's link along the top of the main blog page to access that section. These sections include the following:
Read: Click this link for quick access to written pieces on the Etsy Blog.
Watch: The Etsy Blog doesn't just feature the written word. It also boasts video content, including visual how-to's, profiles of Etsy sellers, and more. To access this content, click the Watch link.
Make: Looking to master a new crafty skill? Check out Make section, with links to loads of how-to articles and videos.
Shop: This section is where you can track down Etsy's Featured Sellers, chosen by Etsy administrators. You can also read other regular segments, such as "Fresh Shops," "Editor's Picks," "Short Stories" (devoted to sharing the stories behind extraordinary pieces found or created by Etsy sellers), and more.
Editions: For quick access to other editions of the Etsy Blog, such as the Etsy News Blog, Seller Handbook, or any of the international editions (discussed momentarily), click this link.
About Us: Want to meet the magicians behind the curtain? Check out the About section of the Etsy Blog. In addition to spelling out the Etsy Blog's mission statement, the About section reveals the Etsy staffers behind the blog's content and includes an area where you can pitch your own story ideas.
As mentioned, Etsy also hosts blogs for members in other countries — namely, Blog Francais, UK Edition, Deutscher Blog, and Nederlandse Blog. To access these, click the appropriate link under Other Etsy Blogs on the right side of any Etsy blog page. Alternatively, access them by clicking the Editions link along the top of any blog post. (Note that these alterna-lingual blogs are not accessible from the Etsy Weddings blog.)
To read an article or view a video in any of Etsy's blogs, simply click the article title. Etsy opens the article in its own page.
To search for an article in any of Etsy's blogs (except for Etsy Weddings, which, mysteriously, does not support search), follow these easy steps:
Type your keyword in the Search the Blog box in the upper-right corner of the blog's main page.
Click the Search button.
Etsy displays a list of blog articles containing the keyword you typed.
Click an article title to view it.
In addition to reading the articles on Etsy's blogs, make it a point to peruse the comments left by Etsy members. These comments are often as enlightening as the article itself. If you have something to add, don't hesitate to weigh in; just scroll to the bottom of the comments, type your two cents in the Add Your Comment box, and click the Add Your Comment button.
Although the Etsy Blog is written primarily by various Etsy staffers, members of the Etsy community sometimes contribute. To pitch your idea, click the About us link on the Etsy Blog to open the About us page. Type your e-mail address in the field provided; then type your story idea, optionally including an image. Finally, click the Submit button. If Etsy likes your idea, it'll let you know!


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Bend landlords complain about Oregon's rent control bill
Landlords look to evict problem tenants before Senate Bill 608 passes
As president of the Central Oregon Rental Owners Association, Melody Luelling has been fielding a lot of hotline calls about the rent control bill that's quickly working its way through Oregon's Democrat-controlled Legislature.
Some of the callers are landlords who have been charging rents that are below the market rate and want to catch up before the bill passes, Luelling said.
Others want to get rid of tenants who've been paying their rent late or have unauthorized pets or roommates.
"Right now you can give them a no-cause notice and have them move away," she said.
Senate Bill 608 passed the Senate Tuesday, 17 to 11, and is expected to pass the House. Effective immediately, it would make Oregon first in the nation to enact statewide rent control.
Bend landlords were eager Wednesday to sound off in the wake of the vote.
"This is real, real serious stuff," said Lawnae Hunter, who owns rental property and owns a management company overseeing about 800 units, mainly single-family homes and duplexes, in Bend and Redmond. "Certainly there are some abusive situations in Portland that have sparked this — which is a way, way overreaction."
Hunter and Luelling agreed that the immediate impact will be from limits on eviction, rather than limiting rent hikes to 7 percent plus the increase in consumer price index. The bill also requires landlords to give tenants 90 days' notice of eviction and pay them one month's rent.
"We're already getting calls from our owners (at Plus Property Management), saying, 'I don't want to own property in Oregon anymore,'" Hunter said. "'Why should I have to pay a tenant to move out of it? And why would I want to continue to invest in housing where I had to do that?'"
Hunter thinks corporate-owned apartment complexes will fare better, at least in the short run.
Regardless of the style of housing they manage, landlords said the legislation would discourage investment in older properties.
"Usually you pay for capital improvements through rental increases," said Andrew Brand at Evergreen Housing Development Group in Seattle. The company is planning a 170-unit apartment building in Bend.
Developers have built hundreds of new apartments in Bend, and more are in the planning stage. Brand doesn't think anyone will cancel their plans over the rent control that's currently proposed.
"It'll be very easy for the Legislature to change that from 7 percent to something lower than 7 percent," Brand said. "At a certain point it'll become restrictive on new development."
Bend already requires landlords to give tenants who have been living on the property for more than a year 90 days' notice of a rent increase.
With the House expected to take up the bill soon, many landlords have probably missed their opportunity for a catch-up rent hike, Luelling said.
"It's really catching people by surprise," Hunter said.
— Reporter: 541-617-7860, email@example.com


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Twenty-eight years ago, New Zealand created an unusual fashion competition in which the participants weren't necessarily haute couture or daily wear fashion designers.
Instead, a former costume designer from the iconic Cirque du Soleil, woodworkers, architects, potters, sculptors, carpenters, teachers, set designers, kitchen putterers, boatbuilders, and others were welcomed to this international competition and encouraged to express their creativity by making clothing out of "materials" that never graced any runway before.
Making its sole East Coast appearance at Salem's Peabody Essex Museum through June 11, "WOW – World of Wearable Art," is a 32-ensemble piece, interactive exhibition traveling exhibition that presents "extreme wearable artworks" from New Zealand's unique annual competition. Participants use bizarre "materials" to create their eye-popping artworks.
Every design differs radically. An historic-looking entry has a brocaded bustle, equipped with two cabinet shelves of teatime kettle and crockery. A black-and-white ensemble could garb mod rap and rock performers, while a pumpkin-shaped frock with uniformed plain and lacy-look pleating captivates imaginations.
Created by Dame Suzie Moncrieff, the competition this year has attracted participants from 40 countries. They use autotrim and auto paint, spray foam insulation, elastic, wire, Velcro, nuts and bolts, wood, aluminum, fiberglass, taxidermy, kitchen utensils, hedgehogs, and heaven knows what else in their creative fusion of art, theater, and fashion design. Some of their bizarre methods, tools and materials would undoubtedly delight costume creators of "The War Horse," "The Little Mermaid," and "The Lion King," but stultify fashion designers of "Breakfast at Tiffany's".
Museum visitors may also stop by the creativity table, get a paper doll and materials, then make their own wearable art ensemble to hang on the wall. There's also a large triptych screen video patrons may watch, and areas with magazine-portfolio pieces to peruse.
At first blush, the terms "wearability," fashion, and "wearable art" seem like misnomers.
With entries such as American designer Lynn Christiansen's 2014, "Gothic Habit," worn like a sandwich board, a replica of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, with spires, flying buttresses, rosette windows, etc. The former marketing employee fashioned her "dress" out of laser-etched felt and wood, consisting of more than 2,300 individually cut pieces.
It makes us wonder how anyone sits down in this masterpiece.
Christiansen wasn't creating a fashion trend. She was making a personal statement. She thought when people enter a religious building, it inspires a spiritual experience. Perhaps that sense of spirituality would carry over to a person wearing her design.
New Zealand artist Jan Kerr, who spent two years working on her award winner, "Hermecea," used papier mache, handmade fabric and wire for her startling, fanciful, frightening design with large red lobster claws, antennae and tail; high, standup scalloped-shaped headpiece-collar; snatches of silk resembling seaweed; and sharp spikes piercing throughout her costume. Kerr wrote that her creation was inspired by the colors, textures, and forms of her country's hermit crabs and lobsters lurking underwater, in their seabeds.
Peabody Essex Museum curator Lynda Roscoe Hartigan said she especially likes Kerr's design because it recalled happy childhood memories of her going out to dinner with her favorite aunt and uncle and ordering her favorite meal – lobster tail. Hartigan is the James B. and Mary Lou Hawkes deputy director of PEM. She also appreciates Kerr's ability to capture the animal's spirit in a beautiful way, she added.
Although Sarah Peacock's 2012, strange futuristic – looking creation, "Totally Sheepish," looks like a series of off-white hoses, teardrop motifs, and pieces, they're created out of wool and thread, reminiscent of New Zealand's sheep population.
Alaskan carpenter-woodworker David Walker's 2012 "Beast in the Beauty" is snazzy, too, with its flared short dress, helmet and boots created from maple, padauk wood veneers and aluminum, but its symbolism is more personal. Walker's wife fought breast cancer and succumbed at an early age from "that beast" living within her. His design is also a tribute to all women living with cancer and their struggle to maintain their dignity and beauty during treatment.
Walker also created "Lady of the Wood" in 2009, fashioned out of mahogany, facewood, maple and cedar. It's a subdued, historic-looking, wooden gown with mutton long sleeves and full skirt.
Sarah Thomas of New Zealand created her modern-looking concept of the "American Dream" in 2012 – a bright red chassis dress with a silver grate, front-end hood, and wing-shaped sides, a' la 1950's. The forward-looking creation, with steering wheel, front bumper, and mercurial-winged design headpiece, is made out of vinyl, leather, papier mache, builders foam, and plastic. No American steel here!
You can't ignore New Zealand artist Gillian Saunders' 2013 multi-jewel toned "Inking" she created in 2013, using EVA, paint and foam. Sporting a scary headdress of curved horns, fiery wings, spiky winged shoulders and totally tattooed body, arms, legs, torso, etc., Saunders' creation envisions what happens to people with so many tattoos, they overtake the body and soul.
Canadian artist Marjolein Dallinga's 2011 "Skin," is fashioned from wool and silk, but its fiery red spikes from helmet to hem represent the turbulence and troubling facets of her life.
Other designs include New Zealander Stuart Johnson's "Persephone's Descent," made from mild steel and stainless steel, brass, chain and pewter, a futuristic, steely-looking metallic combat suit and stacked boots that Lady GaGa could perhaps wear in one of her stage extravaganzas.
Commercial cleaner and self-taught designer Peter Wakeman's 2013 show-stealer, "Chica Under Glass," symbolizes a hot chick, wearing a fiberglass, stiff-shaped, hot pink lacquer, metallic-sprinkled frock constructed of fiberglass and plywood. This standout frock is glossy, glittery, girlish and glamorous.
A "BRAcalypse" section of six outrageous Bizarre Bras includes "Prickly Heat," a creation resembling a cactus plant with flowers, and another with working metal hose ends and handles.
As whimsical as this jaw-dropping exhibition is, it's also beneficent. The museum and Mass. General Cancer Center for Community Partnership Project are sponsoring the Scarf Project – Nurturing the Tie Between Art and Healing. PEM is selling Massachusetts artist and cancer survivor Bonnie Ashmore's scarf at $60 apiece, in the gift shop. For every scarf sold (also at Mass. General Cancer Center, Boston, and Mass. General/North Shore Cancer Center-Danvers), another is donated to a patient at the cancer center.
One more note – the WOW exhibit nicely complements the museum's multi-room exhibition, "Shoes: Pleasure and Pain," an international collection of more than 300 pairs of men's and women's shoes through the eras, some historic, others created by 130+ designers and artists.
The marvelous shoe collection closes March 12, but WOW remains on exhibit into June.
Museum admission, $20; seniors, $17; students, $12. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 866-745-1876. Pem.org.


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We love New Zealand. We know New Zealand. This beautiful country displays a staggering amount of diversity in a geographically tight area. Do you need to shoot bubbling mud pools, vast empty plains and epic alpine scenes? No problem! Flying between any region in New Zealand takes no more than 2 hours. Pacey Production Company is able to connect you with the most knowledgeable location scouts to scour the New Zealand landscape for the perfect spot to shoot your campaign.
New Zealand has more to offer than just stunning scenery. A film-friendly country, we have world-class post-production studios, simple and clear immigration processes and favourable exchange rates that extend your production budget. Take advantage of our seasonal opposition to the Northern Hemisphere to prepare your imagery ahead of time. Let Pacey Production Company free you from a dreary winter.
Our greatest pleasure is introducing people to the vastly diverse beauty of the New Zealand landscape and the encompassing warmth of the New Zealand people. Here, in close proximity, we have snow dusted alps and lush rainforests, crystalline lakes and raging rivers, limestone caves and gasp-inducing waterfalls, long dusty roads and gentle rolling pasture, glamorous white sand and dramatic black sand beaches, aspirational homes and urban cityscapes.
New Zealand's very best asset is our people and Pacey Production Company can connect with precisely the crew you need. We have access to the world-class, internationally awarded film industry as well as the leading lights in New Zealand photo and video production. With over 15 years' experience in the industry, Pacey Production Company can confirm the reputation of local crew as being efficient, experienced and easy-going. The common tongue here is English ensuring stress-free communication and our famously friendly, multi-cultural population enables plenty of casting options.
Contact Pacey Production Company for a competitive quote to shoot your campaign in New Zealand and come see what the world is talking about.
Summer - December/January/February
Autumn - March/April/May
Winter - June/July/August
Spring - September/October/November
NZ has a mix of sub-tropical and temperate climates. Summer temperatures range between 20-30 degrees C and winter 10-15 degrees with more extreme temperatures at altitude.
NZ 9pm = UK 9am (12 hrs ahead of UK)
NZ 9am = USA 5pm (8 hrs ahead of NYC)
NZ Midday = Singapore 8am (4 hours ahead of Singapore)
NZ 11am = AUS 9am (2 hours ahead of Sydney)
See below for specific world clock times by clicking on the play button for each location.


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How to Take Control of Cooking with a Busy Schedule | My Favorite App and Blogs for Recipes
I used to hate the idea of meal planning. It was surely just another thing to fill my plate of busy up, and was for people who had it all together.
SPOLER ALERT: my life became easier when I started meal planning. Meal planning was actually for people who didn't have it all together. Who knew? ;) Monday came and I felt in control. I had a plan for the rest of the week. I had all of the groceries I needed.
Here are some suggested steps to taking control of meals on busy weeks:
BEFORE WE EVEN GET STARTED: Download the app Handpick. I LOVE this app! You can fill in what ingredients you have, and it'll come up with all sorts of recipes for you! Amazing.
Read a blog post from The Tree Hugger on Handpick here.
Photo from The Tree Hugger
1. On Sunday, get out a cookbook (or get your computer), sticky notes, and a piece of paper.
Here are some of my favorite online food blogs to find recipes:
1. Budget Bytes
2. Pinch of Yum
3. Skinny Mom
6. Food52
7. PINTEREST! There are a million and one ideas for recipes on there.
Bonus! Here's an article from BuzzFeed for 27 healthy recipes with only 5 ingredients.
*Our Festival Foods grocery store in Appleton always has a sale on cookbooks. I've gotten so many awesome books from there, including the Mayo Clinic Cookbook 2nd Edition, Pioneer Woman, etc. I also love going to the local library and looking through new cookbooks!
Screenshot taken from my Pinterest board.
2. Find recipes you'd like to make that week. Put a sticky note in the page, or pin them to a Pinterest board.
3. Once you have your recipes, write down the ingredients you'll need.
4. Grocery shop for those items.
*You're shopping for only the necessities, which will eliminate so much wasted food, as well as wasted money!
Give meal planning a shot for at least 1 week. You'll be surprised how much less stress you have, and how much money you save not going to Jimmy John's cause you don't feel like cooking!
Photo from Foodie Crush.
Other tips for taking control of cooking:
5. Prepare on the weekend.
- Cook meat such as chicken, beef, pork, etc. You'll have them ready for quick lunches, or to throw in your dinners to save time!
- Cook rice, veggies, anything you can do to cook ahead of time will make your week of meals a lot less stressful!
- Cut up any veggies you'll need for your recipes. That way you can quickly throw them into the pan or Crock Pot.
6. Use a Crock Pot! Taylor and I are still blown away at this invention. So wonderful!
7. I've heard SO many wonderful reviews about the Instant Pot.
- It cooks a chicken in 20 minutes. Saves so much time on everything! It's definitely on my wish list. I've yet to hear a bad review about them.
And there you have it! I hope these tips will help save you some time in your cooking routine. What have you found helps you take control of cooking on busy weeks? Comment below!
With love,
Ali Leigh
Photo from Food52