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German Chancellor Angela Merkel will still be smarting from last year's revelations of US eavesdropping on her cellphone when she visits the White House Friday for lunch and several hours of talks with President Obama.
But even if the nagging issue of the National Security Agency spying on America's allies is sure to come up, the crisis in Ukraine – and in particular coordination of the transatlantic response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's challenge to European order – will dominate the agenda.
Facing the gravest challenge to stability in Europe since the cold war, the two leaders – both pragmatists and practitioners of a cautious and deliberate foreign policy – will be looking to each other for leadership in addressing the Ukraine storm.
Ms. Merkel – the Western leader with the closest personal relationship with Mr. Putin, and whose country has the strongest economic ties to Russia – can be expected to argue for continuing a careful "step-by-step" approach to Russian aggression, transatlantic experts say. Merkel was deeply disappointed by Putin's annexation of Crimea and the campaign of destabilization he is carrying out in eastern Ukraine, German experts say, and now believes a tough Western response is in order.
At the same time, she is likely to encourage Mr. Obama to continue with his approach of coordinating with Europe and prioritizing transatlantic unity over unilateral action, they add – despite the domestic criticism Merkel knows Obama faces for not moving faster.
"Merkel's response to the crisis has been a little bit tougher than some might have expected," says Christopher Chivvis, a specialist in European and Eurasian security at RAND Corp. in Arlington, Va. It's also true, he adds, that because of Germany's leadership role in Europe and its dominant role in relations with Russia, "what she says has a really big impact in the region."
As a result of Merkel's somewhat surprising firmness and the influential role she plays, Mr. Chivvis anticipates an effort by Obama to enlist Germany to go farther and do more.
"I would expect the president will try to lean in a little bit on Ukraine," he says.
Obama has refrained from imposing sanctions on entire sectors of the Russian economy in part because of European reluctance to go that route. But the president is expected to try to pin down with Merkel what additional Russian actions in Ukraine would trigger tougher measures from the Europeans, including broader sectoral sanctions, US officials say.
On the Ukraine file, the two leaders will have more than just the issue of sanctions on Russia to keep them busy. Another priority item will be how to help ensure that the national elections Ukraine has scheduled for May 25 go off without major hitches (many regional experts believe Russia is doing everything it can to undermine the vote) and result in a legitimate and authoritative national government.
Ukraine's economic survival will also be on the agenda. In addition to her White House visit, Merkel will also meet with International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde to discuss what financial and economic help Ukraine will need to get back on its feet.
Merkel is also scheduled to address the US Chamber of Commerce Friday afternoon, focusing on the transatlantic free trade and investment agreement that the US and European Union are hoping to conclude next year. She was planning to dine with a group of US senators upon her arrival in Washington Thursday evening.
Yet even as Ukraine receives top billing in Merkel's visit, the outrage she – and indeed much of Germany – felt upon learning last year of NSA spying on German leaders, including Merkel, will not be far below the surface.
When Obama invited Merkel to Washington earlier this year, she said pointedly that the process of reestablishing trust would take "more than one trip." Germany has pressed for a "no-spy" accord with the US like the one the US has with Britain and a few other English-speaking allies, but the US has made it clear it is not prepared to take that step, and Merkel is not expected to insist on that point.
This willingness to downplay an important issue that risks getting in the way of addressing another will put Merkel's pragmatism on full display. It also provides a stark contrast with the response of another world leader who found her country embroiled in the NSA spying controversy.
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff had been invited for what would have been the only state visit to the Obama White House last year. But with Brazilians still furious over revelations of US spying in their country, Ms. Rousseff called off the visit. US-Brazilian relations have not recovered since.
Merkel also faces heightened anti-American sentiments at home, German experts note. But she also supports a strong transatlantic partnership, these experts emphasize, and she represents a Germany that sees a continuing US leadership role in Europe as all the more important in the era of an aggressive and even expansionist Russia.
"The Germans want to stay close to the US, they don't want the story [from Merkel's visit] to be one of divergence," says Charles Ries, international vice president and expert in European Affairs at RAND.
But Ambassador Ries, who just returned to Washington from Europe, says German leaders and many of their European colleagues want the US to consult with them and take their concerns into consideration even as it retains an active role in Europe.
"Often they grumble if we don't set out a clear [path] … but they can also grumble if we do," says Ries. "What they really don't like is when the US seems to be not acting."
That ambivalence presents "a leadership challenge for the US," he says.
Some similar ambivalence will no doubt accompany Merkel into the Oval Office, as she seeks some attention to the NSA spying discord even as the Ukraine crisis dominates the day.
Some public expression of understanding from Obama about Germany's spying concerns might be enough to deliver the picture of firm accord on Ukraine the White House wants. "If [Merkel] gets that," Ries, says, it's likely the US "can get an outcome from the White House visit that [projects] strong alliance unity and resolve."


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We are Meghan and Aaron, a fairly normal married couple, except that we spent two years living as American expats in Germany, and are now living back in Texas (our home state is Michigan!). Oh, and we are BIG TIME into scuba diving.
We met in 2007 at Michigan Tech, a small engineering school in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and started dating a year later. Before we knew it, we were degree holding engineers, excited at what was next. For Aaron, that meant moving to Texas to start a job with BASF and for Meghan, that meant staying at Michigan Tech to pursue her Masters degree. Those were a long two years doing the whole long distance relationship thing and in that time, we got engaged. After Meghan finished grad school, we got married and lived happily ever after.
Ok, kind of. Happily ever after means the story is over, but that's where ours was just beginning. In 2012, right before we celebrated our first anniversary, we learned to scuba dive and a passion was born in both of us. Just over a year later, in December 2013, we heard that there was possibility that Aaron would be transferred to Germany for work. Then in early 2014, we found out it was really happening. After a brief discussion that lasted all of 5 minutes, we decided to do it. We knew that this was probably a once in a lifetime opportunity, and despite the fact that we had recently purchased a house, knew that there would never be a better time in our lives to do something like this. Flights were booked, the house was packed, everything was put into storage and we made the move in August of 2014. And that's how we found ourselves as scuba diving American expats living and working in Germany.
Fast forward two years. We traveled all over Europe seeing and doing some incredible things, but our time had to come to an end. In the summer of 2016, we moved from Germany back to Texas. Our home state is Michigan, so Texas is a completely different beast for us! And yes, everything is bigger is Texas. We still plan to travel (a fire has been lit and our feet tend to get itchy if we've been in one place too long) but now we hope to explore some more of the USA, Caribbean, and maybe even Central and South America! We still have a soft place in our hearts for Germany, and want to make sure we get back to Europe sometimes too. However, we also lost two weeks of vacation when we moved back which is going to make traveling even more difficult!
We started this blog when we found out we were moving to Germany as a way to keep our family and friends back home updated on our traveling, the adventures we have, what it's like to live as expats, and the scuba diving we are doing. We quickly discovered that all the lessons we learn while traveling and living as expats can help others. We also share random stuff we found useful in traveling or lessons we've learned along the way (like how to drink with Germans and survive to tell the story about it). Here, you will find the stories of our travels, some tips about things to do, observations about living as expats, and, we hope, a new, exciting travel destination you never knew existed! So feel free to grab a cup of coffee (or tea or wine or whatever your beverage of choice is), sit back, and look around. And if you have any questions, or suggestions of places to go, drop us an email or visit us on Facebook!
How We Got Into Diving
Since it's such a big part of our lives, we think it's important to tell you how we decided to get into scuba diving, especially since it's not something that a normal person does on a whim. Diving was something we had always talked about doing, but time and being poor college students kept us from really pursing it. After booking a spur of the moment trip to Roatan, Honduras, we realized we had no idea what we were going to do on a island for a week. See, Aaron hates sitting on the beach, and Meghan hates being idle during vacations. Turns out, Roatan is one of the best places in the Caribbean to dive. We soon found ourselves signing up for lessons, then buying all of our gear, and soon, jumping into the warm Caribbean waters like it was something we were born to do. This was in October. By January we were ice diving (in wetsuits, I might add) and by April we had decided to buy drysuits (4 months of diving in 39°F water was all it took to convince us that drysuits were a need, not just a want).
That year, we dove our butts off, mostly in the cold inland lakes of Michigan and the Great Lakes. We both agree that it's one of the best things we've ever done, and it even helped improve our marriage. Now, here we are taking trips to the Philippines, Iceland, and Austria for diving and always looking at any body of water we see as a potential new dive site. We have managed to work our way from open water divers to rescue divers and have our sights set on technical diving next. It's safe to say diving has worked it's way into our DNA. It's a part of us now.
Our Travel Companions
In January 2016, our first daughter, Evelyn, was born. For the first six months of her life, we lived in Germany and traveled a lot with her: Belgium, Italy, the Czech Republic, the US, Norway, Croatia, just to name a few. Then, in November 2017, our second daughter, Julie, was born in Texas. While she has yet to get her own passport, we hope to get that soon and start adventuring with two little ones in tow!
It is important to us that we not stop doing the things we love - traveling, scuba diving, exploring, eating good food - just because we have kids. Of course, our trips look a little bit different now and diving together is now a rare luxury, but we try to find a way to make it work. Here, we plan to share tips and tricks we learn for traveling with kids, and of course some of the funny stories that come from it. And, we promise to try keep the poop talk to a minimum, but we're not making any promises!
About Meghan
Meghan is a Materials Engineer for BASF by day and blogger by night. She's the one who books all the travel, researches our next adventure, makes it happen, and then tells the stories. When she isn't blogging, traveling, or chasing kids around, she is usually drinking a glass of German wine (preferably a Riesling) and knitting.
About Aaron
Aaron is an Electrical Engineer at BASF and Lead Photographer/Copy Editor for the blog. His hobbies are diverse and wide ranging but include diving, photography, wood working, and home brewing. He's Meghan's chauffeur for all of their travel, but he doesn't mind since he gets to drive fast on the German Autobahn. He is always on the look out for the next big dive trip he wants to take!

subset: commoncrawl


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The cause and effect of obesity on my life still has me shaking my head. Because I spend a lot of time reading about the subject of obesity, I still sometimes find myself asking the questions:
Am I overweight?
Are my habits slipping?
Looking back, one of the worst effects of obesity was that I started to create my own illusions.
I started to tell myself that I was a big beautiful woman, inside and out, and that it was just the way I was, and that it was okay, that I should embrace that.
Which is great, if I actually believed it - but I didn't. It was a conversation I held with myself for self-preservation, mental self-preservation.
The problem with that is though, once you start lying to yourself you can't see the reality, and if you can't assess reality as clearly as possible, you can't make the changes you need to make.
Firstly, convincing myself that that's the way I should be was poppycock! The cause and effect of obesity, and in particular, my obesity, when I sat down and assessed everything I knew and did honestly was that....
I ate too much for what physical activity I was doing.
It was the quantities of the food I ate. I ate lots of vegetables and fruit, which is good, but I had got used to topping them with lots of fatty and salty sauces.
I didn't watch how much fat or salt I cooked with, and I loved and craved continental sandwich meats and rich meals.
And since I was naturally prone to being fat (wasn't I? Wasn't that the problem, it's just the way I was) I convinced myself that I was eating well, so there was nothing I could do.
Then it would bother me, and bother me more. I'd stop looking in the mirror, I didn't care about the way I dressed.
It's a bit like housework. You walk over the floor, and subtly acknowledge with a mental note that you should sweep it. Two days later, the mental note is a little less subtle, boy that floor's getting dirty, but there's other things to do.
Then, all of a sudden, you decide, right, that's it, I have to do it now…it's driving me nuts!
That was me with losing weight. I'd gird my loins and say that's enough! And I'd head for some quick fix diet. Because now that I'd decided to change I wanted it fast!
I'd lose weight, there wasn't really a problem there…and then it would creep, and sometimes, rush back…and I'd be more morose and unhappy, and it would just reinforce that mental hallucination that it was just the way it was.
There was some good with obesity though…I did get to a place where I realised that I didn't care how long it took, but I was going to beat this for life.
That was a turning point from fad diets to long-term sustainable healthy weight loss and it was the beginning of controlling the cause and effect of obesity for me.
That was the point when I started being totally honest with myself.
Am I overweight? No, I'm way past overweight! Am I a big beautiful woman? No, I'm unhealthy, I'm putting my health, physical and mental health, at risk…and really, I don't like it.
I don't like being fat, I don't like being overweight!
Now, there was one advantage to having gone through a variety of diets to get to this place, and while I don't recommend anything that doesn't focus on improving health and quality of life, there was one thing that these diets taught me.
Each of those diets taught me something about myself and losing weight for life.
Firstly, all those diets restrict the quantity of calories you put in…so, if you want to lose weight you have to take in less that you use.
Secondly, there was one diet where I finally learnt that different types of foods have different calorie levels. So, one teaspoon of fat had the same energy (calorie) load as a whole handful of salad!
And so on.
Each diet, each
exercise program
taught me something. Some taught me what I couldn't maintain, some taught me information I could use to build myself a healthy program, some taught me things I could do that were easy, and amazingly effective.
I've found a way to combat the cause of my obesity, and I still enjoy the rich great foods, I just no longer go overboard with them.
The effect of obesity, well I hope I have in some way stopped the medical effects of obesity on my body, but more importantly to me, the mental effect of obesity is limited.
I enjoy my food without guilt, I enjoy the activities I participate in, I enjoy my life, and I'm more honest with myself, about everything.
In fact I wonder how much quicker I would have felt this way if I hadn't been so fearful and embarrassed that I created illusions for myself?
But I've done it now, I'm still working on it - I'm a work in progress, and it's a much nicer place to be, mentally and physically.
I'm sure you've learnt things too, along the way. Write them down, you may be surprised at just how much information you have that will help you. You can combat the cause and effect of obesity for yourself too.
Or, you can choose not to change it, or to do everything you can to just keep plugging away at it, until you get what you want.
It's your life, you can work out what works for you, and maximise that effect!
Leave My Cause and Effect of Obesity and go back to the About Me Page
Leave My Cause and Effect of Obesity and go back to the Life and Losing Weight Home Page
Leave My Cause and Effect of Obesity and go back to the About Me Page
Leave My Cause and Effect of Obesity and go back to the Life and Losing Weight Home Page


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About Liberia
Liberia is a developing West African country about the size of Tennessee with a population of approximately 3.3 million. Despite its political, economic and social troubles, Liberia was the only free republic in Africa until 1980 when a military coup led to nearly a decade of authoritarian rule.
In 1989, civil war broke out in Liberia. Liberia is struggling to recover from 14 years of civil war (1989-2003) that destroyed much of the economy and infrastructure. Democratic elections held in 2005 brought to power President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The process of rebuilding the social and economic structure of the country is slowly taking place.
Geographically speaking Liberia packs a wide variety of scenery in a small package. Along the coastline is flat or gently rolling, often swampy land leading into the interior. The dense tropical jungle of the interior opens up to the plains and low mountains of the northeast. The Sapo National Park, a main attraction, is one of the dense tropical rain forests inhabited by chimpanzees, elephants, pygmy hippos, leopard and other rare animals and birds. Liberia is blessed with natural resources such as iron ore, rubber, timber and diamonds.
Monrovia is the capital city; there are 15 counties that serve as administrative divisions. Forty percent of the population is Christian, 20 percent Muslim and 40 percent follow indigenous beliefs. English is the official language, but there are some 20 ethnic group languages as well. The unemployment rate is estimated at 85 percent with 80 percent of the population below poverty.
LEM has been incorporated with the government of Liberia and its administrative headquarters is located in the city of Fendel.


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It's another comic from this decade - I'm Nu Skool!!!!!
The Immortal Iron Fist by Matt Fraction (writer), Ed Brubaker (writer, issues #1-14, Annual #1, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), David Aja (artist, issues #1-6, 8-13, 16), Travel Foreman (penciler, issues #1-5), Russ Heath (artist, issues #3, 6, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), John Severin (artist, issue #2), Sal Buscema (penciler, issue #4), Leandro Fernandez (penciler, issue #7), Khari Evans (penciler, issues #7, 15), Roy Allan Martinez (artist, issue #8-9), Scott Koblish (artist, issue #9), Kano (artist, issue #10-14), Javier Pulido (artist, issue #12), Tonci Zonjic (artist, issue #13-14), Clay Mann (penciler, issue #14), Howard Chaykin (artist, Annual #1), Dan Brereton (artist, Annual #1), Nick Dragotta (penciler, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Lewis LaRosa (penciler, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Mitch Breitweiser (artist, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Derek Fridolfs (inker, issues #1-5), Tom Palmer (inker, issue #4), Francisco Paronzini (inker, issue #7), Leo Fernandez (inker, issue #7), Victor Olazaba (inker, issues #7, 15), Raul Allen (inker, issue #9), Mike Allred (inker, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Stefano Gaudiano (inker, issue #14, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Matt Hollingsworth (colorist, issues #1-6, 8-14, 16, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), Dean White (colorist, issue #2), Laura Martin (colorist, issue #6), Dan Brown (colorist, issue #7), June Chung (colorist, issue #8-9), Edgar Delgado (colorist, Annual #1), Jelena Kevic Djurdjevic (colorist, issue #15, Annual #1), Paul Mounts (colorist, issue #15), Laura Allred (colorist, Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death), and Dave Lanphear (letterer).
Marvel, 18 issues (#1-16, plus The Immortal Iron Fist Annual #1, which comes after issue #9 and The Immortal Iron Fist: Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death one-shot, which comes after issue #12), cover dated January 2007-August 2008.
Minor SPOILERS below. I try to keep it vague!
One of the important reasons The Immortal Iron Fist is such an excellent comic is that it was published by Marvel.
What I mean by this is that DC has a more sense of "history," as there are legacy heroes, elderly heroes, a history of different "earths" where the heroes grew old and had children, a strong history of war comics and westerns that stretch the days of the DCU further back in time to the nineteenth century, and a legacy of printing comics that don't "fit" into an official "continuity." Marvel, while they have published such books, doesn't have as much of a legacy in this area as DC does, with most of their comics fitting into a very rigid "continuity" that began with Fantastic Four #1 but has been extended back to include the early Marvel superheroes of the 1940s. Even with their "quirkiest" titles (until recently, that is), at some point someone fits it into regular Marvel continuity. For years, there wasn't much room at Marvel for comics like this, and even though Fraction and Brubaker place this firmly in Marvel continuity, they also create a strange world that isn't necessarily in sync with the Marvel Universe we've come to know. That's not to say it wouldn't be a great comic if DC had published it (difficult to do, as the book is full of Marvel characters), but the fact that it takes place in the Marvel U. but also expands that universe makes it a bit more interesting.
Of course, it's a great comic on its own, too, and Brubaker and Fraction make sure that the comic doesn't become too much of a regular Marvel Universe book.
They acknowledge the post-Civil War reality, use Hydra as one of the evil forces, and ... well, that's it, really. Other than the fact that Iron Fist and his cronies are owned by Marvel, this is simply a pulp story with a veneer of superheroing on top of it. Brubaker, presumably, adds in the noir-ish elements, while things like The Empire of Hypothetical Science screams Fraction. The two writers blend their strengths to give us a giddy examination of a strange world full of possibilities. So we get crazy mechanical spiders, women who turn into cranes, pirate queens, airplanes with angel figureheads, hauntingly beautiful subway stations with pneumatic trains, floating trains packed with explosives, steampunk interdimensional tunnels, Lightning Lords of Nepal, gun-toting courtesans in Harlem, the Green Mist of Death, scantily-clad and buxom cowgirls, Frankenstein's monster, poet emperors, bloodthirsty folk legends, and all sorts of cool martial arts action. All of these elements could easily show up in a regular superhero book, of course, but the way Brubaker and Fraction blend it into one delightfully pulpy stew makes this comic a world-building exercise that's breathtaking to read. That it exists side-by-side with the rest of the Marvel Universe is just a nice cherry on top.
The big innovation that Fraction and Brubaker come up with, of course, is the idea of a succession of Iron Fists stretching back over the millennia. This allows them to tell stories that take place in the past without screwing up Danny Rand's established continuity while also, through Orson Randall, Danny's immediate predecessor, indulging in their desires to tell pulp stories set in the 1920s and 1930s. This not only gives us some great pulp stories, it puts Danny into a context and deepens his connection to K'un-Lun, the mystical city where he gained his powers. It's a nice twist to Danny's history, and although the concept of a legacy hero is a bit overdone, it's all in the execution, and Fraction and Brubaker are able to seamlessly create an alternate history of the twentieth century through these tales. It's one of the things that makes this comic so much fun.
Ultimately, the grand plot (the run is technically separated into two big arcs, but it's really the same plot) doesn't matter too much, because it becomes bad guys versus good guys very quickly, and when the bad guys include Hydra, it's tough to take them seriously. The plot is certainly exciting and interesting, but Brubaker and Fraction are much more concerned with the major theme of the series, which is family and how it affects our lives and the decisions we make.
Yes, this is a family drama dressed up as a martial arts comic masquerading as a superhero story. But it's about what binds us together and what's important in life, and Brubaker and Fraction come down on the side of family, however that family is defined. This is evident from the first pages of the book, when Danny reminisces about how he arrived in K'un-Lun after his parents died. Almost immediately after that we're introduced to Danny in the boardroom and Jeryn Hogarth, his major domo. Hogarth is his friend, but he also treats Danny as if he's a child. In quick succession Fraction and Brubaker bring in Orson Randall, who acted as surrogate father to Danny's biological dad and will soon be a mentor to Danny himself; Luke Cage, Danny's "brother"; Davos, who was Wendell Rand's "brother" and therefore intimately connected to Danny; and Misty Knight, Danny's ex-lover. The comic becomes a tangle of familial alliances and obligations, driving the characters forward. Danny learns about his past and what it means to be an Iron Fist, and this drives him to join the tournament in the second arc. Davos feels the need to impress his father, Lei Kung the Thunderer, who trains the Iron Fists and becomes their mentors, making Davos jealous in more ways than one. Jeryn is forced to work for Xao and Hydra because they kidnap his mother and threaten her life. Luke, who operates outside the law, buries the hatchet with Misty and Colleen Wing, who are working for the government, because Danny needs them and they're family. Orson Randall's "Confederates of the Curious" form familial bonds as well, with Wendell Rand learning how to live from the older members of the group. In the excellent standalone story, issue #7's "The Pirate Queen of Pinghai Bay," Brubaker and Fraction give us a wonderful and exciting story of martial arts that's ultimately a love story.
In "The Capital Cities of Heaven" arc (issues #8-14), Danny learns of the champions of the other cities, and he forms sibling-type bonds with them, as well. And Orson Randall's daughter leads the revolution within K'un-Lun as a way to honor her father. In fact, the two main bad guys - Yu-Ti and Xao - are distinguished by their disrespect of familial ties, as Yu-Ti rejects his father's teachings and Xao drags Jeryn's mother into their business, showing a lack of respect. Davos, who is the other main bad guy, gains redemption by coming back into the family unit and asking forgiveness from his father.
This theme makes Iron Fist an interesting comic because unlike most other superhero books, there's a strong sense of history and generational conflict to it. Most superhero books, even if they adopt a family structure (team books do this a lot, but Spider-Man is very concerned with family, too), are locked into the present so much that the family structure never changes too much, and it's more of a sibling dynamic anyway. By expanding Danny Rand's universe into the past, Brubaker and Fraction are able to examine the way sons relate to their father figures and how this changes the way they live. Orson Randall's father crashed in K'un-Lun a century ago, and Orson struggled to live up to not only his biological father's legacy, but his adopted father's (Lei Kung) as well. Then, he became a father figure to Wendell Rand, and struggled with being a good role model to a boy who wanted to follow in his footsteps, even though Orson tried to dissuade him. Davos craves the approval of his father and tries for years to prove himself, only doing so when he lets go of his pride. By stretching these conflicts over the generations, Brubaker and Fraction give us a more complex characterization than we expect in a mainstream comic book, and they're also able to examine family bonds from many different angles.
There's no one dominant way a person relates to his family in this comic, and it makes the nuances more subtle and varied. We can look at Orson's relationship with Wendell and see how Orson learns from it and applies those lessons when he meets Danny. We can see how the Thunderer treats his biological son, Davos, and how he treats his surrogate sons, Wendell and then Danny, and wonder whether he could have made different choices. We can compare Danny's life to Davos's or even Orson's and speculate how it would have been different if he didn't have Luke, Misty, and Colleen to lean on. That Fraction and Brubaker place this complex skein within the framework of a superhero comic is often a dazzling achievement.
The fact that Iron Fist is a terrifically good adventure comic shouldn't be overlooked, either, and a lot of the strength in that regard comes from the art. Aja is a wonderful artist for the book, with a noir-ish style that works well for the often gritty stories that Brubaker and Fraction come up with. Aja is also excellent at the martial arts in the book, creating the wonderful characters at the tournament and giving them each a unique look and style of fighting. He's also very good at the quiet moments, such as issue #16, in which he illustrates Fraction's final script beautifully even though there's very little action in it. The haunted look on Danny's face as he realizes the implications of it being his birthday is fantastic.
Obviously, Aja had big deadline problems, which led to the ridiculous number of artists working on just 18 issues of the series, but the artists are almost universally strong on the book, and the selection of artists again shows how nicely this comic fits into a historical setting. John Severin illustrates a section during World War I. Daniel Brereton's funky style works perfectly for the mystical adventures of Orson Randall in the 1920s and 1930s. Russ Heath gives us a story set in the West. Khari Evans has a fine style for the tale of Bei Bang-Wen in the 1860s. All of the artists bring unique styles to the book, but they blend together very well, and although the lack of Aja is occasionally frustrating (at no time more so than in issue #14, the climax of "The Capital Cities of Heaven"), the fill-in artists do a marvelous job and, more importantly, are there for specific sections, so we know that when we see Kano's art, it's for the story of Wendell and Davos training together. By breaking the art chores into discrete sections, the book gains a consistency it would otherwise not have.
Ultimately, the reason this is such a good comic is because you can simply read it as a high-spirited adventure, but there's plenty going on underneath that deepens our appreciation for it. Fraction and Brubaker take a simple concept and broaden it to the point where they create a new world within the Marvel Universe. This is different from going back and "filling in the blanks" in the lives of current Marvel superheroes. They expanded the Marvel U. to make it a much more interesting place, full of crazy new characters. Danny Rand becomes a more interesting character simply by fitting into this universe. The Immortal Iron Fist is a wild ride that leaves you breathless, but it also makes you think about how people react to each other and how people can use the past to create a better future. Unlike many superhero comics that came out at the same time, there was a sense of freshness to this title that made you feel like anything was possible. And for 18 fine issues, anything was.
Marvel's policy of releasing everything in trade means that this is available. It appears like there are three trades collecting this run, although a single, giant Omnibus edition would look nice a shelf, wouldn't it? And be sure to check out the archives if you have some time to kill.


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Perhaps one of the very common kinds of home improvement projects is the bathroom. In fact, it is a not quite a tie between the restroom or your kitchen as the most frequent updated rooms of a house! And like some other do it yourself project, a bathroom remodel – especially one that's located off the master suite – means there are a variety of choices to be produced from the types of flooring and fixtures to features such as the bathroom vanity and lights. Most of us have been around in that situation when you're stepping into a new home, or perhaps renovating a preexisting home, and you'll need to buy a fresh bathroom sink. You might not be sure about the kinds of bathroom sinks available, or what's important to take into account when buying bathroom sinks. In this article, we shall consider some of the factors you ought to take into account, as well as briefly discussing a few of the other factors you must consider before purchasing a sink. You can find almost uncountable forms of bathroom shower ideas round the world. Mostly people such as for instance a little flair within shower style, so for this function we have placed some of the greatest kind of shower ideas below.
Allen Roth Bathroom Cabinets Enhance First Impression SwayZees from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:swayzees.com, Author: Koncobolo
So what kind of elements does one consider whenever a bathroom remodel has been planned? After all, you will find so many options! But perhaps the very first thing to do is to truly have a plan. Be sure to keep things such as for instance budget and useable space key determinants in the process so you can move forward. Obviously, in the event that you make use of a skilled team of remodelers, then you may be sure that they can know to plan the area so you get the absolute most boost for your budget. The Aluminum Glass Shower. The first type of bathroom shower design, which I'm going to inform you, is a type of Aluminum and glass shower by having an enclosure. This enclosure is done using glass panels, that is attached with an aluminum frame. This shower enclosure is then surrounded with walls fitted with metal grey tiles, the blend of the metal with the tiles and clear glass gives a slightly new look.
Light 47 Modern Bathroom Vanity Light Sets Best Bathroom Vanity from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:wire2wolves.com, Author: Koncobolo
As you begin thinking about upgrades, don't forget about choosing your bathroom vanity that complements your style. No longer is one relegated to boring Formica countertops for the toilet! Today's homeowners can choose from a variety of surfaces such as for example inlaid tiles, natural stone as well as custom pieces that add depth and beauty. But all these bathroom vanity tops offer a variety of features or options of customizing. As you make your decision, remember these basics of bathroom vanity choices. Among the main factors to think about is space – what are your personal restrictions when buying and fitting a brand new sink. There is no point choosing your dream bathroom sink, only to locate that it doesn't easily fit into, or alternatively so it looks too small within your bathroom. Look at the design of the room – will the bathroom sink go in the corner of the area, or would you like it to function as centrepiece of the room.
Unique Rustic Bathroom Vanity Lights lightscapenetworks from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:lightscapenetworks.com, Author: Koncobolo
The Seaside shower. One bathroom shower idea is that a lot of people would first think hard before implementing this idea. The theory works on the simpler kind of shower attached on aside of a wall and the shower can be moved since it is linked to a pipe. To improve the effect, dark grey tiles is going to be attached only on to the floor, while the walls will undoubtedly be covered with sea blue colored checkered tiles. To incorporate more effect a sitting area may also be made in the shower, which is connected, which is covered with light grey tiles and the overall shower area is going to be covered with glass panels. This sort of bathroom shower idea is definitely certainly one of its kind because it reflects quite a sophisticated design with a little reflection of the sea. The restroom vanity you select should: Be crafted to allow for the placement of the sink to be wherever you will need it to go. Be either an entire match to the toilet vanity material or either a deliberate contrast that also complements the colors and style of the room. Coordinate with your choice of commode and shower/bathtub. Be able to accommodate and use whatever fixtures you've chosen included in the remodel. Remember that the faucets are normally either widespread designs that need at least 3 drilled holes to be produced or center spread faucets might have 1 to 3 holes to be drilled.
Allen Roth Bathroom Cabinets Enhance First Impression SwayZees from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:swayzees.com, Author: Koncobolo
Nowadays, you can find several different kinds of materials for bathroom sinks to be made out of. We briefly mentioned glass sinks above, but you may also purchase your sink in a number of other different materials. Other various kinds of materials include marble or metal sinks, although by far the most used material for sinks is vitreous china. The main reason for this is that these bathroom sinks are generally the absolute most durable, as well as being much simpler to clean. When you consider how often a day that the bathroom sink can be used, this is one of the primary reasons for the popularity of vitreous china. Your bathrooms remodel is really a fun way to include new life and space to a home. If you're considering upgrading your home's bathroom, then talk to an area team about the procedure and learn which kind of bathroom vanity will best suit your requirements, space and budget. Then, prepare to prepare for your entire day any way you like
allen roth Palencia Espresso Contemporary Bathroom Vanity from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:co.pinterest.com, Author: Koncobolo
It's also advisable to look at the style of the restroom, and the style of the sink that you want to put in. Many people are fans of a glass sink, which can look extremely classy in the right bathroom, but look out of invest a differently styled bathroom. Would you need to choose a contemporary look, versus a functional look? Perhaps you are less concerned about style, and more about the cheapest, viable option. All of these factors are very important, and you ought to pick the right choice for the bathroom. The Classy Shower. That is a different type of bathroom, that may have a simple, but an elegant look. The contrast may have a white and grey colour and have grey colored cabinets, white colored sink and a stool. As the shower will soon be attached on the roof of the toilet and the shower, area will undoubtedly be give covered with glass panels and with a little mixture of black and white tiles. The toilet will overall be covered with white tiles.
White Single Sink Bathroom Vanity TopofThehilldc from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:topofthehilldc.com, Author: Koncobolo
With regards to the various types or styles, of bathroom sinks that you can aquire, there are a wide variety of sinks. These include pedestal, countertop, wall mounted, corner, inset, semi-recessed, space saving / en-suite or undercounter basins. Remember that the choice is a personal decision, based in your tastes and the space in that you simply have to work with. The Rainfall Shower. If your chosen place for remove your stress may be the shower than you will definitely love this kind of idea. The theory include a rainfall shower head adjusted on the ceiling and the complete shower area covered with grey tiles which can be an incredible combination for a rainfall type of look. This will definitely have a very refreshing and a fresh type showering experience for you.
Allen Roth Bath Cabinets Image Cabinets and Shower Mandra Tavern from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:mandra-tavern.com, Author: Koncobolo
When you make your choice which sink to get, it's also wise to consider other factors such as for instance installation. Whether you will be able to install your own personal sink is determined by your own personal DIY skills. Some bathroom sink companies will include installation in their prices, whereas others will not. In this instance, if you are not experienced at DIY, you might be best advised to hire a plumber in the future and fit the sink for you. This should not be an overly expensive investment, however, it's obviously important that the sink and water pressure is properly fixed. The Luxurious Shower. A newer and modern method utilizing the inspiration of palaces is this luxurious bathroom, the theory is always to decorate the shower area with multicolored tiles and the utilization of a free stand tub having a double shower and the tub placed just beside a window a lovely and natural look. The flooring will soon be of light hardwood floor, which gives a great finish to the overall look of the shower.
Unique Bathroom Vanities Canada – REFLEXCAL from allen and roth bathroom vanity , source:reflexcal.org, Author: Koncobolo
When you have made the decision which sink to get, you'll need to decide where to purchase the sink from. One of many deciding factors can occasionally be what warrantee each company is ready to provide. Always do your research to discover a reputable company, and make an effort to be sure that the company features a good reputation within a and that they have positive reviews. The Beige Shower. This kind of shower uses alcove shower at once the ceiling while the whole bathroom walls are covered with beige walls using large granite looking tiles and a rock slab with an under mount sink and cabinets attached on the side of the sink. The shower area is going to be covered with curtains and a glass door to enhance the sweetness of the shower.
How To Install A Bathroom Vanity


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Materia design by Lööf
With its fold-down ends Avec can easily be transformed into a daybed. Both end pieces are foldable and can be locked in four positions. Space-saving Avec is practical with its removable seat cushions. Tubular steel legs in chrome or silver grey powder coating. Decorative cushions as optional extras.
Seat height 17.32"
Overall height 33.07"
Overall width 58.66"-79.92"
Overall depth 27.75"


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- Description
Vienna Symphonic Library IC Recorders
The Vienna Symphonic Library Instrument Collection Recorders is high quality sample library including soprano, alto, tenor and bass recorders with a variety of articulations included.
- Interval Performances: Legato (with and without vibrato)
- Repetition Performances in legato and staccato
- Performance Trills
Single notes:
- Short notes (staccato)
- Long notes (sustains), with and without vibrato, regular and marcato
- Dynamics: Crescendo & diminuendo in various note lengths
Your purchase also entitles you to download the free Vienna Instruments player software that includes the Vienna Ensemble mixing and host software (AU/VST/AAX Native/RTAS plug-in or stand-alone).
Recorders INSTRUMENTS ARTICULATIONS Soprano Recorder
Alto Recorder
Tenor Recorder
Sustained with and without vibrato
Sustained marcato, with and without vibrato
Crescendo and diminuendo, 1.5, 2, and 3 sec.
Interval performances, legato, with and without vibrato
Trill performances, with and without vibrato
Repetition performances, legato with and without vibrato, staccato
Great Bass Recorder Staccato
Sustained with and without vibrato
Sustained marcato, with and without vibrato
Interval performances, legato, with and without vibrato
Trill performances, with and without vibrato
Repetition performances, legato, staccato
System Requirements:
- PC Windows 7 (latest Service Pack, 32/64-bit), Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2
- Mac OS X 10.7 (latest update), Intel Core 2 Duo
- 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)
- ViennaKey (Vienna Symphonic Library USB protection device) or other USB eLicenser (e.g., from Steinberg or Arturia)
- eLicenser Control Center software (get the latest version from www.eLicenser.net)
- 2.2 GB free hard drive space
- Other configurations may work but are not actively supported.
- PC Windows 7 (latest Service Pack, 64-bit), Intel i5/i7/Xeon
- Mac OS X 10.9 (latest update), i5/i7/Xeon
- Fast separate hard drive (7200 rpm or faster)
- AU/VST/AAX Native/RTAS compatible host (also works stand-alone)
- RTAS version requires Pro Tools 7.3 or higher
- AAX version requires Pro Tools 10.3.5 or higher
- 88 key master keyboard
- Additional Information
Additional Information
Manufacturer VSL Instruments SKU SVSLICREC Model VSL IC Recorders GTIN N/A Single or Pair N/A


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5-13-09 at Oakland's Fox; A Night of the Earthy Blues
Thursday, May 21, 2009
So a belated dropping of the other shoe on the Fox shows, a week out, re: night 2...
First off I would be remiss if I failed to mention how grand it was to see the ABB on the left coast, in the house with the BAABBA, an extended family who put out a web of welcome throughout the place. You know who you are.
I had found the first show to be one mofo of a rewarding experience, almost too generous with lush offerings of "Jessica," "Rocking Horse," Dreams, and "Mountain Jam." How to follow up this heavenly show?
And as it turned out, the answer was with an earthy show. Night one was all air and water; night two was earth and fire. Which of course means the blues...
Done Somebody Wrong >
You Don't Love Me
Midnight Rider
New Instrumental >
The Sky is Crying
Come and Go Blues >
Good Morning Little Schoolgirl
Whipping Post
The Same Thing
The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down
Leave My Blues at Home
Dreams >
Elizabeth Reed
Imperceptibly, the tuning and tinkering has fallen into a shuffle, and you realize the show has begun... and that soon the shuffle will resolve into "Done Somebody Wrong." Warren plays nice, round jaunty runs. Then a jumping, economical (that means short) "You Don't Love Me," followed by the just-so story of "Midnight Rider." Then the band rolls out their new instrumental. The theme has a kind of Zawinul vibe, making me wonder if maybe Oteil is the writer. Warren looms large, playing some burly, muscular lead like he's clearing a forest. Both nights I had a sense-- very likely imagined-- that Warren was enjoying this respite from the Dead, with whom he tends to play in an ambling, less immediate and more exploratory style, reveling in the straightforward ass whup of the Brothers and the blues (to be clear, I'm a fan of both). Derek takes a while to fall into place on his section, but of course finally he does, drifting closer and closer to Oteil until some musical magnetism has joined them like Siamese twins sharing a heart. I think I've seen every public performance of this piece thus far; tonight is the best I've liked it.
Then the drippy-slow, classic archetype Chicago Blues intro to "The Sky is Crying" (by Warren I think, but don't hold me to it.) Warren grinds out some earthy soul, then rocks you like your back aint got no bone. Derek lays some slide over Gregg keyboard testimony, he goes all slippery, staying barely on the blues tracks but pulling you out of your seat. Finally Warren goes back into the vocals, defiant... the crowd loves it. Oaksterdam knows its blues.
A breezy "Come and Go Blues," then Warren is up again for "Schoolgirl." More manly blues. It's one of those nights where the band makes the blues something big, larger than life, like a freight train of redemption that rolls over you and lays you flat. I don't think anyone else makes the straight blues this powerful... Derek stretches out on the outro, ringing into toffee. Warren changes axes, then pushes him with chording and body language, until you can't stop the train, have to let it roll on... then it crashes, and back into the riff, spot-on, the crowd releases a collective ovation, then vocals and out.
The set closes with "Whipping Post," all the way down to the deep dark bluesy bottom. They did this the first night of the Clapton sit-in at the Beacon, and like then it makes the first set feel like a whole show compressed down. Derek and Warren spray some whupass, then Oteil leads them off on a light, nimble excursion, Marc accenting over the top. Derek meets him with lines that question at the "Post" melody, then he stings and floats. Oteil goes way down low to grab the bassline and give it a good yank to call it all home. A perfect end to a set that sears through the jet black night of the soul, lights the sky with fire...
The density of the first set and the fact of the Dead being in town between gigs makes us all think that something is up for set two; "I smell trouble" says Becca, twitching that adorable nose. But no...
"Revival" opens the second set. A nice sprightly version; after it's done it gets interesting. Warren is a cool breeze; then he pulls the whole band through a keyhole, and on the other side it is "Revival" but inside out. The music makes some "Jessica"-style white light, then of course it barrels back to a right-side-out "Revival" from this side.
The first chord of "The Same Thing" is tossed off, hangs there a moment alone as an invocation, then the song chugs on. Oteil does his thing in the middle, taking the reins, and now he's turned it from Chicago blues into funk, an adjustment that turns out to require only the most subtle of tweaks. Derek and Oteil merge their beams, then Derek wanders over to Warren, brings him the mojo. Derek and Warren do a fiery dance to close; bam! A highlight.
The crowd adores "Dixie;" Derek is like a noble eagle. On "Leave My Blues at Home" Derek and Warren meet up in the middle of the stage and just wield the hell out of this shit. Then another bam! "Dreams."
At the Fox run in September 2004 "Dreams" was the only song repeated across three nights-- they played it at all three shows, but each night a different guitarist took the lead, told the musical story of the song. I commented on the diversity of repertoire to Warren after the last show: "You only repeated 'Dreams' across the three shows, but..." and he finished my sentence for me with a mischievous cackle: "but they were all different." And of course I understood what he meant.
Which is all a long-winded way of saying that this is the one song repeated from the night before, but on air night Derek played it, so of course tonight, on earth night, Warren plays it, and it is different.
Warren, the band put out the music like it's nourishment, bracing, and it pushes you back even as you soak it up. The band shimmers and shudders on return, which amazes and delights the assembled congregation... and the born-again waltz back down the mountain. The song is big, hard-hitting... and totally different from last night's read, which floated me off downstream. This one pins my feet to the floor.
The music spills out after the song ends, and I remember Johnny Flash's imagining of Butch's direction to Clapton on March 20 as the band prepared to segue from "Dreams" to "Elizabeth Reed": "We don't stop here!" And they don't, so you know where this story is going. Finally they roll over into the song. It is the dreamiest number of the evening and I get lost in the music, a sea of dark blue... Warren plays some blue flame. The music falls away into the four-man drum solo, Butch up front, Oteil on Butch's kit. Then back into Lizzy and out. "Southbound" is the inevitable and somewhat anti-climactic encore.
After the show there was a dichotomy of opinion amongst the cognoscenti on which of the two nights was best; the split was interesting, with almost everyone having a distinct preference. Me, I think I liked the first night best. But we're splitting hairs here. The two shows taken together were a yin/yang presentation, both great, and which one you liked best was a function of which mode speaks to you best-- air or earth. Two outstanding shows, one the perfect compliment to the other, two sides of a precious coin. When these suckas are available for download (I'm making that assumption because they were selling the CDs for takeaway at the gigs) I'll be able to luxuriate in them at my leisure and decide for sure which I prefer. Although I'm pretty sure the answer will be, "both."
Labels: allman brothers, review, The tunes
Posted by: --josh-- @ 7:41 AM 0 comments
Allman Brothers Rock House in Oakland
Wednesday, May 13, 2009So I had the great good fortune to find myself in San Francisco concurrent with the first-time-in-six-years arrival of the Allman Brothers Band in the Bay Area, at Oakland's laid back, lovely (well, I thought so) Fox Theater last night.
Don't Want You No More >
Not My Cross to Bear >
Trouble No More
Walk on Gilded Splinters
Who's Been Talkin'
Statesboro Blues
Don't Keep me Wonderin'
And It Stoned me
Aint Wastin' Time No More
Rocking Horse >
Black Hearted Woman >
Mountain Jam
Preachin' Blues
One Way Out
Let me tell you up front, this was one mofo of a satisfying show. It left me wondering what they planned to do for the next night; they didn't leave a whole lot on the table.
On the bluesy slam into "Not My Cross to Bear" Warren brings me back to 1969, a heck of a feat because I was only 10 years old and 4 years from even hearing of the Allman Brothers. A timeless, grounded evocation; then Derek rings out with a wave of tone that unfolds across the room.
"Gilded Splinters" rides in on an easy, greasy wave of percussion, an especially funked-up, swampy N'Awlins version. At the end the two guitars intertwine like dancing flames.
So now it's the slot in the set for Warren's first vocal, and as if often the case, "Gilded Splinters" is followed by the steady voodoo Latin-tinged beat that underscores "Who's Been Talkin'," for my money one of the best songs in the repertoire right now. It is as if Howlin' Wolf has been re-imagined, with Carlos Santana in the Hubert Sumlin role. Derek and Warren play wispy Latin lines, a beautiful extended Yin/Yang conversation that gives way seamlessly to the song's melody, then Warren's vocals. Warren plays a graceful, flowing solo, then ignites; Derek takes the band into hyperdrive, then the crowd erupts when they hit the mark and are back into the song. Warren, again, appears to be the causin' of it all as the music gently fades.
"Statesboro" is next, recognizable and popular, but the fact that it is better-received by the crowd than the previous song is anomalous…
A passionate "Don't Keep me Wonderin'," a tight songish rendition of "And It Stoned Me" (apparently big in the Bay Area), and then the band tumbles into what turns out to be a truly epic read on "Jessica." The drums crash through as the band romps into the theme. Derek goes all shiny-light, then Warren grabs you by the ass and gives a good yank. Then, instead of a rush to the climax, the music seems to spontaneously fall away. From the chaotic stillness Derek and Warren embark on a new melodic excursion that, of course, picks up momentum, hits critical mass, and seamlessly turns back into "Jessica." A big, big close to a big song. As I say, epic.
Thank God this is intermission, because I am emotionally exhausted.
The second set begins with a particularly lush and breezy "Melissa." On "Aint Wastin' Time No More" Derek takes us on a little vacation; then Warren lays down a nice little three-day weekend. The sound, I should mention, is exquisite, at least where I'm standing; full and clear as a bell. It's one of those nights where you're a thirsty flower and the band is the sun…
Oteil lays down a sprightly little vamp, the drummers fall in, Warren sears over the top (it's kind of like a blackened Cajun jam); Derek speckles over that; inevitably the music creeps toward resolving into "Rocking Horse." Warren goes deep into the big muddy on his solo section, then Derek takes the band major key for what Ron E. calls his "happy kid-on-a-tricycle song." "Rocking Horse" has become another epic, and tonight it is redolent of narrative. Back into the darkness of the "Horse," then a fat hanging note that the band grabs onto and uses to whip itself around into "Dreams." Mostly I drift away; Derek squeezes out shimmering gobs of molasses.
"Black Hearted Woman" is next, an assault; the mid-section, where they switch over into the Dead's "The Other One" riff, is made of the intensity of forward motion. It feels like the drum solo, but no… they finish the song, then fall backward into "Mountain Jam." Maybe it's just me, but it is a dreamy version. As the music falls away after the front end, Oteil lays down some narrative from the underside (which rhymes with "thunda-cide.") Then he gets to the end of the story, and the drums…
…some time later ensemble "Birdland" quotes call me back from my drum-induced trance reverie. The band moves into a beautiful musical space, full and rubbery, elongating space and time… "Little Martha" bubbles up, quite distinctly… then, back, back to the theme and close. More narrative, more epic.
After a show like this, I know there's really only one way out… but because this is a night of just a little bit more, Derek and Warren come back alone and offer up "Preachin' Blues," Warren singing, Derek playing the delta blues. Then, "One Way Out."
All in all one heck of a show. The bar is high for tonight.
Labels: allman brothers, review, The tunes
Posted by: --josh-- @ 6:15 PM 0 comments


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1070 W Main Street
Quartzsite, AZ 85346
We have been visiting the Q area for almost 10 years but have not patronized this establishment until this visit and it wasn't even our idea. We were meeting up with fellow RVers and Bloggers Kenny and Angela Harper creators of RV LIFE IS GOOD and they suggested this place. Many of the reviews called it a "Dive Bar". You could call it that but we prefer to call it a quant place to gather with friends and have some good eats and great conversation.
It is not a restaurant, it is a bar. It has pool tables, a betting window for the horse races, Karaoke, music, dancing and other things a bar would have but they also serve food. Being from that type of environment growing up it was not foreign to us and we enjoyed our time there.
They offered sandwiches, burgers, salads, typical meals for a bar and grill and it's history is interesting.
We started with Margaritas that were prepared perfectly, just the right amount of Tequila with the other ingredients.
Adding a cup of New England Clam Chowder to our meal was the perfect beginning. It was obvious it was not can soup but prepared in the kitchen. Very flavorful and creamy with the exact amount of seasoning.
Our main dish was the Fish & Chips. The fries had a seasoning coating and was fried to perfection. The fish was a meaty cod with a really great coating. They have a special price on Friday's but it was worth the extra we paid.
Good company, great service and scrumptious food, what more can you ask for? When we visit again we will put this place on our places to eat and we would highly recommend it to others.


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Nelson and Vanessa Chen Wedding Kit
Nelson and Vanessa needed wedding invitations to be made. They had some invitation cards in mind and we worked together to create the dream wedding card. Vanessa, really liked the chevron pattern, which was incorporated through out the invitation. The couple liked the cooler tones for their wedding invitations. Their vision was tied together and the wedding invitations were created.
Fans were requested because the wedding ceremony was going to be outdoors, so they wanted to have a fan that allowed people to cool down and block the sun. The name of the officiant, bridesmaid, and groomsmen are printed on the fan. At the same time the itinerary was incorporated on the fan. On the back is a picture of Nelson and Vanessa Chen's engagement photo.
Thank You cards
To complete the whole wedding kit, a thank you card was designed using the photos that were taken during the wedding.


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Photo by Richard Hurd
Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP)
Formerly known as Thrive, the Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP), works in the spirit of collaboration to ensure resources are available to the people and organizations that do business here, helping the region continue our tradition of delivering first-rate products and services to the world.
MadREP's Advance Now: Madison Region's Strategy for Economic Growth is a comprehensive, action-oriented regional economic development strategy that will systematically move the eight-county Madison Region's economy forward.
Watch the Advance Now video.


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At newspapers, employees joke about having bake sales or fundraising auctions to help the bottom line. Having worked on many a school auction, I can see the catalog description now: "Dinner and a movie with your favorite editor! Value: priceless."
But over at The Washington Post, which is by far not the most financially challenged newspaper going, they're in a PR free-fall over the story that broke this morning on Politico.com:
"For $25,000 to $250,000, The Washington Post is offering lobbyists and association executives off-the-record, nonconfrontational access to 'those powerful few' – Obama administration officials, members of Congress, and the paper's own reporters and editors."
The story, broken by Politico's chief political correspondent, Mike Allen, described a flier acquired from a lobbyist, of all ironies, who felt it was a conflict for the paper to charge access to its healthcare reporting and editorial staff.
The Post agreed, and immediately canceled the "salon" that was to be held at publisher Katharine Weymouth's house.
Now the paper's management is in full-scale damage control.
"This should never have happened," Ms. Weymouth told Post media reporter Howard Kurtz. "The fliers got out and weren't vetted. They didn't represent at all what we were attempting to do. We're not going to do any dinners that would impugn the integrity of the newsroom."
Post ombudsman Andrew Alexander is also bemoaning what he says "comes pretty close to a public-relations disaster."
It must have been painful for Mr. Allen, who broke the story, to embarrass the Post in this way. Allen worked at the Post for six years and has spoken fondly of his time there. He has likened the first time he entered the Post newsroom to being a ballplayer and stepping onto the grass at Fenway Park in Boston for the first time.


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Bethel Preschool is an outreach ministry of Bethel Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs, CO.
Christian Mission Statement:
Provide a meaningful early childhood education experience where each child is nurtured to learn, develop and grow as a child of God.
Educational Philosophy:
Bethel believes that a meaningful Christian early childhood program provides a safe and nurturing environment that
promotes spiritual, academic, social, physical, and emotional development of young children and their families.
Our focus is the academic, social and religious preparation of children for success in kindergarten.
We believe in:
- Supporting a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by modeling, teaching and practicing in an age-appropriate environment for spiritual growth.
- Building loving, nurturing relationships between Christian educators, children and their families.
- Providing curriculum and policies that reflect the diversity of children and families in our community and the world around us.
Our Staff
Our staff is made up of dedicated individuals with a love for children. Education, prior experience and a statement of faith are all taken into consideration
when hiring staff. All staff participate in early childhood training and staff development as well as CPR and first-aid training and background checks.
Bethel Preschool is fully licensed by the state of Colorado. Our facilities, staff and policies meet or exceed the standards set by the Colorado Department of Human Services
– Child Care Licensing Division. We are in ongoing communications with licensing specialists regarding the safety of our facilities and the design of our program.


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Capitol Alert Breaking
Californians increasingly believe terror attack 'very likely' here
Erick Santiago, a college student from San Bernardino, lives not too far from where terror suspects carried out their deadly rampage during a holiday party last month at the Inland Regional Center.
33 percent California voters who believe another terrorist attack is very likely to occur in the near future in the state
Fourteen people were killed and 22 injured in the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil since Sept. 11, 2001. While officials pursue charges against the Riverside man who allegedly provided the assault weapons used on Dec. 2, Santiago said he remains concerned about another terror strike happening in California.
"It seems like a trend that is going to continue," he said.
Others living east of Los Angeles, and across the state, share his anxiety.
A new statewide Field Poll shows Californians increasingly believe similar bloodshed is very likely to occur here in the near future. One in three of the state's registered voters think more terrorist attacks are quite probable. By comparison, just 20 percent thought an assault was forthcoming in California following the violence in New York and Washington on 9/11.
"That's a pretty big change," said Mark DiCamillo, director of the poll. "When the attacks occur in your own backyard it actually impacts public opinion here."
It's unrealistic to expect nothing to happen in the future because bad things happen.
James Negrete, poll respondent from San Bernardino
James Negrete, another poll respondent from San Bernardino, said his worry about another attack has little to do with proximity to the last horrific event. Negrete said he works a safe distance from the site of the shooting.
Negrete said his unease about more violence brought by terrorists is heightened by the fact that "there are many people in the world that don't like America."
"It may be ISIS, or it could be an unknown terror group," Negrete said. "It's unrealistic to expect nothing to happen in the future because bad things happen."
Survey participants were only somewhat confident in the ability of federal agencies such as the FBI and CIA and others in law enforcement to thwart a major incident. The poll found just 21 percent very confident that the officials are prepared to prevent similar types of terror attacks from happening on domestic soil.
Many others, including Negrete, say they worry the U.S. government will take things too far in its attempts to institute anti-terrorism programs. Some 55 percent are concerned, or somewhat concerned, about losing their freedoms and personal liberties, up from 42 percent who felt that way in December 2001.
Negrete decried what he views as privacy abuses, and likened the collection of bulk data to allowing relentless agents in one's backyard with listening devices.
"It is going too far," he said, instructing officials to "get a warrant."
Overall, the poll found 71 percent view a future attack as very or somewhat likely. DiCamillo noted voters across San Bernardino and the Inland Empire are more likely than those statewide to think such attacks are very likely to occur here. In that region, 44 percent of voters believe this to be the case. By comparison, just 21 percent of Bay Area voters felt such attacks were very likely.
Lilee Utley, a retired nurse from Corona in Riverside County, said she thinks another terrorist strike is inevitable. In the last few years, Utley has lost her husband, a U.S. Army veteran who she said served in World War II and the Korean War, as well as two sons who spent time overseas in the U.S. Air Force and Navy. The recent shooting, again, tugged at her emotions, Utley said.
"I was hurt. All those people. I pray for them all the time," she said. "And I feel sorry for California and the United States having to go through this."
Still, Utley said she hasn't lost sleep over the last month.
"I've lived long enough. It's not disturbing me. I am not fearful," she said. "Because it's going to happen anyway."
Christopher Cadelago: 916-326-5538, @ccadelago


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He comes from a remote village in Kupwara district of strife-torn Kashmir and studied in a village school. Eight years ago, his father was gunned down by militants. But Dr Shah Faisal, a 26-year-old MBBS, has fought the odds and won. On Thursday, Faisal became the first Kashmiri ever to top the civil services exam. "I don't have words to express how I feel, I am not able to speak. I just wish I was with my family. I am just waiting to hug my mother," Faisal, who came to the capital before the results to "get away from the stress of waiting", told TOI. Even through the elation, Faisal gets emotional at the mention of Kashmir. Describing himself as a victim of conflict, he says, "I have watched the bloodshed in Kashmir very closely. I was devastated when my father Ghulam Rasool Shah was gunned down. It is him that I miss the most today. He used to dote on me and taught me English and maths when I studied in school," he says. In Srinagar, his mother Mubeena Begum, thrilled beyond words, says, "Faisal has made every Kashmiri proud with his hard work and dedication." Her husband, she says, was killed because he refused shelter to militants. Ironically, it was the tragedy that opened a window to the wider world for the family. "After the killing, I shifted from village Sheikh Nar in Lolab Sogam area of Kupwara to Srinagar with my children ^ two sons and a daughter. My elder son Shah Faisal had done his class X from Sogam high school while my two other children were in middle school there. I was a broken woman but never gave up and fought against all odds to bring up my children," says Mubeena, a teacher, like her husband. Faisal, who did his MBBS from Srinagar's Sher-i-Kashmir Medical College, says he was confident of qualifying but never imagined he would be right on top. His mission now is to serve his people in the strife torn area of Kashmir. "I wanted to serve my people and in the role of an IAS officer I would like to reduce the communication gap between the people and the administration. I will give audience to them to hear their problems, cares and worries. I want to bring a change, especially for women and the youth," he says, insisting that he never received any formal training for the UPSC exam. Among his inspirations, Faisal counts an IPS officer from his state. "I was inspired by one Abdul Gani Mir of my area in Kupwara, who passed his IPS in 1994. I have been in touch with him since 2007, when I thought of sitting for the civil services exams," he says. Gani is currently DIG, CID in Jammu and Kashmir Police. Faisal's younger brother Shah Nawaz is also a doctor while his younger sister Talat Shah is a library assistant.
Samay Live:
Overcoming all ordeal and militancy atmosphere in the valley, Kupwara boy Shah Faesal has topped the list of three-phase Indian Administrative Service (IAS) 2009.
Dr Faesal also become the first Kashmiri to top the Civil Services examination.
His success will also set an example in the valley. Faesal belongs to Kupwara district of Kashmir, which is believed to be militancy gate.
The 26-year-old MBBS graduate, who topped the list of 875 successful candidates, said that he was not the first Kashmiri to achieve the milestone he was also second Muslim in the history to achieve the feet.
It was celebration at Faesal's hometown and his family members were seen distributing sweets.
Faesal said that it was not only cracking Civil Services, the highest job in India, but it was battle against the all odds.
His family moved to Srinagar from Sogam village in Kupwara after brutal murder of his father in 2003. His father Ghulam Rasool was a schoolteacher and well-known personality in the village. He fell prey to militancy bullets without any reason.
After father's death, Faesal's family left their native place for never to return.
Faesal's mother is also a schoolteacher and she said, "I am happy that he achieved his dream."
Despite his science background, Faesal had chosen Urdu literature and public administration as his optional subjects for the civil service exam.
Faesal's success will also inspire talents in the valley and they will help Kashmir to join the mainstream of society.
Indian Express:
Shah Faisal dreamed big. In a state where few go in for civil services, the 27-year-old put his medical career on hold to appear for the examination. Today, as the results came in, his name was at the top — a giant leap for a boy from a government school in a remote village, whose father was killed by militants, and a big, big step for Kashmir.
"There was nothing in my background that would make anybody think I can achieve this," a jubilant Faisal, who had been hoping to be among the top 50, said today. "But I did it. So can thousands of other students with similar difficult backgrounds."
"It is not only my own success," he adds. "I feel I have broken the jinx that Kashmiri students cannot reach the top. I am the first from J&K to top this examination and I am sure my story will become a model for our students who fear to dream big. I am an orphan with a scarred childhood. There was a tragedy in my family, my father was killed. I was raised by my mother who is a schoolteacher. I belong to a far-flung village in Lolab and I studied in a government school."
Faisal says he was motivated by the idea of "doing more than what forms success in Kashmir". The civil services examination is not something Kashmiri students generally opt for. "So I thought to make an attempt..."
The first person he called up on learning about the results, at 3 am today, was his mother. Mubeena Begum hasn't had an easy life. After her husband, Ghulam Rasool Shah, a schoolteacher, was killed by "unidentified gunmen" eight years ago in Sheikhnar village, located in frontier Kupwara district, she migrated to Srinagar with her three young children for a better life. She raised Faisal and his siblings on her schoolteacher salary.
For her, the news of Faisal's success was "like a new birth". While he had always been an achiever, Mubeena didn't expect him to do this well. "I didn't see him with books all the time. He did study but in a very normal way," she says.
What the family had no doubts about was Faisal's determination to become an IAS officer and to do something for the state. "He always wanted to do something big. Even after qualifying for MBBS, he didn't seem satisfied. It was his passion to qualify for the civil services exam. He would store photographs of Kashmiri IAS officers in his cellphone," Mubeena says.
Faisal's one regret is that his father isn't around to savour his success. "I'm missing him today... He taught me that I could take on any challenge, only if I work hard. He was my guide and my teacher and can you imagine, the basics that he taught me in Class XI came as a big help during the (Civil Services) preliminary (examination)."
Faisal didn't take any formal coaching for the exam. "I took Public Administration as a subject and for sometime studied geography too. But then I decided to study Urdu literature. I an emotionally attached to the language."
While he put his doctor's training aside to prepare for the exam — unheard of in a state where medicine and engineering are among the most coveted professions — Faisal picked up another vocation in the meantime. He is also an active RTI activist.
Among those who inspired him to take the civil services exam were his late maternal grandfather Mohammad Maqbool Wani. He qualified for the Indian Forest Service 45 years ago, but disappeared while on his way for training. "We never heard of him again," Faisal says. "But my mother always talked about him during my childhood and the family was proud that he had qualified. I think that pride with which my mother remembered my uncle became a reason for my interest."
Abdul Gain Mir, who qualified for IPS in 1994 and belongs to Kupwara too, was also a big inspiration and kept motivating Faisal. A Deputy Inspector General now, Mir is a delighted man. "Faisal has made all of us proud... His success has sent a clear message that there is no dearth of talent in Kashmir," he says.
Equally proud is Khursheed Ganai, who in 1981 stood second in the civil services exam — the highest rank for anybody from J&K till today's results. Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah now, Ganai says he hopes more from the Valley take the exam inspired by Faisal, calling it "the need of the hour". "I hope his success does what mine couldn't."
Transforming a hurdle into an opportunity, Dr. Shah Faesal coped with personal tragedy to become the first from Kashmir to top the Union Public Service Commission 2009 examinations.
The untimely death of his father in 2002 at the hands of "unidentified militants" days before his Pre-Medical Test did not deter Dr. Faesal from clearing the examination or becoming the first candidate from Kashmir in several years to be selected to the Indian Administrative Service through open merit.
Dr.Faisal, who turns 27 on May 17, was only 19 when his father, a teacher, was killed in Kupwara.
As friends, well-wishers and the media on Thursday thronged the Hamdard Study Circle premises here, where the doctor took coaching for the Civil Services examination, Dr. Faesal said: "I had only two choices — to be bogged down or to stand up and face the challenge."
A festive atmosphere prevailed as Dr. Faesal, attired in brown formals, articulated himself in well thought-out and measured words, surrounded by people eager to shake hands with him and present him sweets.
Asked why he chose not to pursue medicine, he said: "I felt that I could not have made a change by being at a hospital and wanted to work with the government."
For the Prelims, Dr. Faesal chose Public Administration. He chose Public Administration and Literature of Urdu Language for the Mains.
Appearing resolved about which service he wanted to get into, Dr. Faesal said: "I have chosen the Indian Administrative Service already."
He would like to serve from Kashmir, as he was familiar with the environment and had a vision for it. However, he would not mind serving in any part of the country.


text:
Good morning, friends!
I hope you had a great week and are preparing for a fun weekend ahead...I know I am! To start the weekend off right, I thought I'd share an adorable card I made using my new Birdhouse stamp from my April release. Let's get started!
I started by die-cutting a rectangle panel out of white textured cardstock to fit behind by blue scalloped frame. Then I started my stamping. I used one of the branches from my set to start off my scene. I added a few leaves coming off the branch to add some color. I mixed in the leaves from my Abstract Florals set to create more variation. On a separate piece of white cardstock, I stamped a birdhouse, two leaf clusters, the flying bird, and the small flower. I used my Copics to add some color to them and trimmed them out.
I adhered all of the elements together using foam tape and added them to my card. I used a black detail pen to add a little stitched string coming from the branch to make it look like my birdhouse was hanging from it. To further add to the theme, I used the "let's hang out" sentiment from my Tiny Sentiments stamp and added it below the birdhouse. I thought that finished off the card nicely, don't you think?!
This card would be so fun to create in dozens of different color combinations. Really the only limit is your imagination with this stamp set!
I hope you enjoyed my card!


text:
The following was taped on Sunday in Richmond, Virginia.
– Big Show & Antonio Cesaro interrupt, then Smackdown GM Booker T comes and makes Show & Cesaro vs. Sheamus & Orton for the main event.
1. The Miz defeated Heath Slater w/Three Man Band
2. Natalya, Hornswoogle & The Great Khali defeated Epico, Primo & Rosa Mendes
3. Intercontinental Title: Wade Barrett (c) defeated Kofi Kingston to retain the title.
4. Tamina Snuka defeated Layla
5. Randy Orton & Sheamus defeated The Big Show & Antonio Cesaro.
– Orton & Sheamus had a staredown to close the show.
Source: Prowrestling.net


text:
For friends and fans of KNOTS or Not scouting cartoons by Rich Diesslin - cartoons celebrating the fun in scouting! KNOTS cartoons are single-panel scouting related cartoons originally focused on silly "what not to do" scenarios, but has broadened to general scouting fun as well. KNOTS cartoons can be seen on: www.the-cartoonist.com and usscouts.org.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Cartoon Days of Christmas (TCDC) is live!
The Cartoon Days of Christmas (TCDC) is live! It is the 7th annual TCDC featuring 28 new cartoons and over 215 cartoons from 2003 to today! Come and see, send a friend! Hope you enjoy this year's event!
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|derivative work
|Work created on the basis of a pre-existing work which can still be recognised in the new work. Derivative works are protected as free-standing works. Translations and arrangements require the authorisation by the author of the original in order to be legitimate.
|distribution key
|Agreement defining the manner in which the rights are distributed among the rights owners in cases where there is more than one rights owner
|dramatic work
|A compilation of connected actions and discourses of one or usually more persons, to be performed on stage and reflecting reality through play.
|dramatico-musical work
|Dramatic work comprising music. The musical element is usually integrated with the libretto to form a joint work. The term dramatico-musical includes but is not limited to the work genres opera, operetta, musical etc.


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COMMUNITY Guidelines
Welcome to the Higher Community! Our community serves to connect the students of Higher Jiu Jitsu with each other, celebrate our wins, get answers for your questions, talk and learn more about Gracie Jiu Jitsu, movement, health, MMA, and everything in between. Be sure to read through these guidelines so we can work together to maintain a friendly and supportive community all around.
Here we go!
What is the Community?
The Community is where you'll connect with the students of Higher Jiu Jitsu, here and from all over the world. We're lucky to attract some amazing people. The word that best describes everyone here is "positive." You'll certainly find the feedback and accountability you've been craving, but you'll build fun relationships with cool people.
Okay. So where is the community?
Slack is our new home and we really like the setup. You can sign up any time and we'll send over an invite. The best way to connect is to download the Slack desktop app and sign in to stay on top of our conversations.
I've never used Slack before. How does it work?
- First, download the Slack desktop app.
- Once you sign in, you'll already be included in our main channels, such as #general, #technique, #training, #mmatalk, and #wins. There are more channels, though. If you click on "Channels", you can browse all of our available channels and join any you want to participate in. You can also mute channels or remove yourself from them any time.
- Head into the #introduceyourself channel and say hi. Tell us about yourself, your line of work, or any other details you'd like everyone to know about you. Oh, and be sure to update your Slack profile a pic and your phone number so we can know who you are.
Now it's time to join in the fun. Chat with people in channels, @ mention them (just like on Facebook or Twitter) to talk directly to people, or send a Direct Message if the need arises.
Check out the Slack team settings. There's so much you can do to make this Slack team work perfectly for you.
Remember the "give give give get" principle in our community – be of service to others as much as possible (and especially before promoting something of your own!). There's a whole channel for those promos, by the way. It's #shamless-self-promo and it's there anytime you want to join in.
What kinds of conversations happen here?
Everything related to jiu jitsu, and health, and life. This could look like:
- Announcements about upcoming events and programs
- Sharing any wins from a recent class
- Asking for strategies, feedback, or advice on a particular problem
- Discourse on all things ProCoach and health related
- Discussion of movement practices and checking in with others
- Connect with other students and collaborate
- Learn more about how others are approaching their training
Someone posted something that's offensive and/or rude. What do I do?
Let us know as soon as you can. We'll take care of it right away.
How do I know what's safe to post?
Great question. We consider our Community to be like a family and we ask that you treat each other with respect. We can't edit your posts, but moderators can delete them. We will delete posts that contain:
- Rude or offensive comments
- Nudity or graphic content
- Spam or "trolling" posts/comments
Basically, be cool. Be supportive and helpful, speak to others the way you want to be spoken to, remember that typed out words don't carry tone or inflection with them so it's important to consider how something could be read, and, most importantly, keep in mind that there's a human being on the other side of the computer screen.
I still have questions. Where do I send those?
Send an email to email@example.com. We're more than happy to answer any additional questions you might have.
Okay. I'm ready to join. How do I do that again?
Click right here:


text:
|Project by Matt
|posted 01-02-2017 10:04 PM
|878 views
|1 time favorited
|2 comments
This shaving kit was a gift to my brother-in-law for Christmas.
All pieces are walnut with the exception to the rim of the bowl which is Brazilian rosewood. The brush is a badger hair brush I bought at Woodcraft. I fixed the brush to the wood using an epoxy glue. The inside of the bowl is a smaller removable porcelain bowl. I figured the wooden bowl would last longer if it wasn't rubbed with the shaving brush every time you shave.
The pieces are finished with mineral oil and a butcher block wax.
Thanks for looking and God bless!
2 comments so far
#1 posted 01-03-2017 06:41 AM
Very neat and professional looking job, congrats :)
#2 posted 01-03-2017 04:14 PM
Nice set. I'm glad that someone else also use old school shaving method, besides me.
-- Ivan, Croatia, Wooddicted
Have your say...
You must be signed in to post the comments.


text:
Local Information: Ferns, Co. Wexford
Featuring free WiFi, a barbecue and a sun terrace, Corcoran's Lodge offers accommodation in Ferns. Free private parking is available on site. The rooms include a TV. You will find a kettle in the room. Extras include free toiletries and a hairdryer.
Note: Map is an approximate indication ONLY. Please contact Corcoran's Lodge for directions and precise location prior to your visit.


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Although it doesn't finish until 11th August, the International Champions Cup (ICC – where have we heard that acronym before) has been a great success. Top clubs in Europe have played out frenetic games in front of large crowds, so what's not to like?
Arsenal's involvement this year is over, but who can forget the tossing of a credit card instead of a coin before the match against PSG. Talk about maximising advertising potential!
With 18 European teams only playing three games each and penalty shoot-outs to determine winners at the end of each match, these pre-season friendlies have been intense. Teams have been going at it hammer and tongs, hoping for three points for an outright win, two for a win on penalties or one for a defeat on penalties.
The match between Chelsea and Arsenal in Dublin was a case in point. The tempo of this London 'derby' on neutral turf was unexpectedly intense. The Blues raced into an early lead, when a Cesc Fabregas corner was expertly concerted by Germany international Antonio Rudiger.
The same old defensive frailties were haunting Arsenal, who seemingly chose Emile Smith Rowe as Rudiger's man-marker. The German stands at 1.90m and is built like a proverbial 'brick house'. The question is why was 18-year-old Smith Rowe assigned that duty? Surely there was someone in the starting eleven more suited to that job? As it was, Arsenal paid the price for poor organisation, which is not something we'd expect to accuse the meticulous Unai Emery of. To make matters worse, the mismatch of the same teenager man-marking the Chelsa goal scorer continued into the second half. Clearly, lessons were not being learned.
Once the first goal was conceded, Arsenal looked all at 'sixes and sevens'. I'm not sure why this idiom is relevant, as in football it should be 'fives and sixes', with Arsenal's five captains and sixth position in the league coming to mind. However, that's neither here nor there. New signing Sokratis Papastathopoulos (easy for you to say) seemed particularly affected; he must have wondered about why he took the Socratic oath for central defenders before signing on the dotted line for Arsenal. The oath goes something like this: 'I swear to fulfill, to the best of my ability and judgment, this covenant: I will respect the hard-won tackles of those defenders of yesteryear (Tony Adams, Steve Bould, Martin Keown etc) in whose steps I walk, and gladly share such knowledge as is mine with those who are to follow (Rob Holding, Calum Chambers, Konstantinos Movrapinos etc). Most of all, I refuse to be bullied by the Didier Drogbas, Diego Costas and Romelu Lukakus of this world and will never lack 'castanets', when dealing with Troy Deeney and his ilk. To all of this, I solemnly swear.' It was clear, that Sokratis's castenets were playing out of time with the rest of the team, upon going a goal down, and this development was worrying.
Panic began to spread like wildfire and even Matteo Guendouzi, who once again provided a stellar performance, looked slightly put out by the score line and by how outclassed Arsenal were, at this stage.
A second Chelsea goal looked inevitable and everyone thought it had duly arrived when speedy Callum Hudson-Odoi was felled in the box by Hector Bellerin. It looked like it was all over: Arsenal's fastest player had been made to look like a Honda Civic racing against a Ferrari and now Petr Cech (who until comparatively recently, didn't do penalties) was now facing a spot kick. During the wait, I got to thinking about how I met someone with almost the same name as Chelsea's tricky wiseman: Alan Hudson. That England midfielder was a prodigious talent and, when I met him in TWI's studios, I expected him to say something nice about Arsenal and the time he spent there. I was disappointed to hear that Hudson was so bitter about his time with the Gunners. Hudson would get his revenge through Hudson-Odoi. It got me thinking how seeing as double-barrelled names are all the rage now, how about if clubs insisted that each new player take a name of previous legend in front of his own surname. Chelsea could really do with an Osgood-Schlatter or two, couldn't they? (Note to readers: if you've got any ideas about double-barrelling the current Arsenal crop, please let me hear from you.)
It seems like I did a lot of thinking before Alvaro Morata stepped up to take the penalty. Morata's reputation is not the best at Chelsea and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets bombed out, particularly as Arsenal's skipper for the day, Cech, comfortably saved the spotkick.
Meanwhile, Hudson-Odoi continued to cause havoc and only Shkodran Mustafi's headed clearance prevented a certain goal from the diminutive speed king. On that note, I cannot understand why some Arsenal fans want to sell Mustafi. Apparently, Galatasaray want to sign the Germany international and the Gunners will not sell for less than €25m. Given that he has been the best defender in the pre-season, I wouldn't sell him right now. In fact, I was shocked when Arsenal considered offloading him last summer. On his day, Mustafi is extremely solid and it must not be forgotten how long Arsenal went undefeated when he first arrived. I think Mustafi will put most of his problems and errors behind him under Emery.
In fact, most of the players seem to be responding well to the new boss. Sead Kolasinac's fitness levels seemed higher than during his previous outing and the same could be said of Mesut Ozil. The retired Germany international fought hard for the cause (well, to a point, at least) and looked sharp going forward.
Most of the team managed to put in a much-improved performance as the game went on, although I would have to say that I was disappointed with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's display. The lone striker seemed to have forgotten where the net is. The problem with playing an out-and-out striker wide is when you move them back to a central position, they take time to readjust.
Once Alexandre Lacazette replaced him, Arsenal's goal threat increased. It was no surprise when Lacazette scored a last-minute equaliser from Reiss Nelson's cross. Although I've stated that Nelson is not ready to start the season as Arsenal's right winger, it may be the only viable option available. It was a great cross, anyway, and I was so impressed with the youngster's attitude, particularly as he didn't allow some misfortune on the pitch to bring him down. On one occasion, Nelson produced a flash of skill but no end product, as the ball rolled out for a goal kick. However, the youngster was unfazed and continued to work hard and believe in himself. Nelson's penalty during the shoot-out was another indication that the talented boy is becoming a man to be relied upon. Whether he can maintain it over a whole season is what I'm not so sure about, but his performance augurs well.
Another player who impressed me was Alex Iwobi. The Nigeria international was sharp and seems determined to force his way into Emery's starting eleven. On this performance, I'd find it difficult to leave him out.
Smith Rowe also produced another mature performance, particularly creditable given he was a last-minute replacement for Aaron Ramsey. I know I am cynical, but I do wonder whether a calf injury in the warm-up was the real reason behind his absence. Perhaps a bid was received from another club and the manager decided enough is enough. Emery has already offered Ramsey the fifth of a captain's armband for his loyalty, so what does the Welshman expect? Financial parity with the less hard-working but more inspirational Ozil? The truth is Ozil is overpaid, but can destroy any team on his day. You tend to think 'Ozil's days' will be more frequent under the new management. However, in pre-season, we've seen a less-than-impressive Ramsey, who looks uncommitted and therefore surplus to requirements. I'll expecy he'll leave before the transfer window closes.
The Arsenal midfield looks strong, when you consider Lucas Torreira will be a certain starter. Alongside Guendouzi, central midfield can become Arsenal's strength rather than its weakness. Based on this performance, I'm not sure I'd start Elneny, as he looked decided shaky. In fact, Arsenal might be advised to try out Iwobi and Nelson from the start in the final friendly against Lazio with an eye on the Man City fixture. A possible starting line-up could be: Cech; Bellerin, Mustafi, Chambers, Kolasinac; Torreira (if he's ready), Guendouzi, Ozil, Nelson, Iwobi; Lacazette.
Another player thriving under the new regime appears to be Calum Chambers. I don't know what they are doing in training but the England international appears to be fitter, sharper and quicker than I've ever seen him.
Returning to the game, it was fitting that Cech should save a penalty to win the game for the Gunners. Reuben Loftus-Cheek didn't really look at the races when he lurched up to take his spotkick. That should take nothing away from Cech, whose match-winning save and performance had the Arsenal fans in rapture. After all, Cech's recent rapping 'skills' had many speculating that he would soon be 'offski, ya'll'. On this performance, you'd have to have to say there's life in the old boy yet and Leno may well have to wait patiently for his chance between the sticks.
Of course, the pre-season is only that, but the intensity of this one suggests that Arsenal have a good season ahead of them: top four should be achievable and perhaps even more.