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We left for a four day vacation to a middle of nowhere town called Ojai, a small village located in the mountains of California, with a population of 30,000 in the surrounding area, and only 8,000 in the city center.
An hour and a half long drive from our Beverly Hills apartment, found us in an endlessly green location, surrounded by vegetation, pathways of hedges and incredible never-ending plants, making the whole traveling experience and the stay that much more relaxing for both mind and body.
Ojai – a Secret Heaven
Yoav was invited to cook as a private chef for a successful Canadian band (one of whose members was a cute Lebanonian-American man who we made a special connection with) in a private home rented by 10 writers and artists, all young musicians who came together to develop music intended to be the next MTV or iTunes hit.
They took out an incredible airBNB apartment in the middle of nowhere on the mountain, where they opened a small studio, brought plenty of beverages, musical instruments, good vibes, and of course – a private chef.
The chef (Yoav) made large amounts of food and treated everyone to his immense culinary talents (each day was a different cuisine – one day Greek, one day Italian, one day Japanese and one day Israeli food).
In the meanwhile,
on one of the nearby streets of the small, magical mountain neighborhood, not far from the band's rented home, while Yoav was busy feeding the band members, I found my own peace and quiet in my own airBNB apartment, rented for the duration of our stay.
We were hosted by a lovely local couple who have lived here for over 20 years, with a large swimming pool, luxurious hot tub at night under the stars, two pairs of bikes for exploring the surrounding areas, and endless greenery all around us.
Sunset Love
During the sunset, I found myself jogging on the marked path circling the mountain, with ethnic-beat music in my ears and the sight of sun rays crashing against the incredible horizons, painting the green trees with gold, as the grand and blurry mountains stagger one after the other in the far distance.
My heart was overwhelmed with emotions, and as I ran, I looked to the sky, breathed in the cold night air, and thanked the universe for the opportunity to be here in this place, at this moment, with this feeling.
Occasionally, on the side of the road, secluded local houses sprouted, short and designed in a classic American style. Besides them, a convertible or an open jeep were usually parked,
typical vehicles for locals who often go on adventures in the surrounding mountains, with a couple of bicycles attached at the back.
Meditation Mount
One of the most beautiful and unique locations in Ojai is Meditation Mount, a breath-taking spot you can reach by a short drive and hike up one of the mountain sides, that takes you to an incredible viewpoint, with the entire city spread below. I walked the area's jogging trail, around me green as far as the eyes can see, and large boulders carved with spiritual sayings and proverbs relating to matters of the mind and soul.
I am not a particularly spiritual person, but when you find yourself in such a soothing place, with clear mountain air, breathtaking views and such a close proximity to the skies, you can't help but feel the energy in the air, or hear the amazing music of the wind stroking the leaves of the trees, along the blurry mountains in the far distance.
This is what it looks like from a birds-eye view:
My visit in Ojai was short, but I have a strong hunch I'll be back here soon 🙂


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Badminton at Elizabeth Park
Today we warmed up with a walk to the bus station to buy July bus passes, then had lunch in Elizabeth Park before we played Badminton. It was a lovely and active day!
"I really liked hitting the birdie over the net. It was nice to play in the sun today!" -Melissa
"I accomplished my goal today by hitting the birdie over the net more than 6 times. Hitting it over is hard, but I did it!" -Colin
"Today I learned how to play badminton. You don't have to be afraid of the birdie because it's not heavy!" -Levin
"I liked playing badminton with Rachel!" -Katie
"It was cool to sit down and play with Katie. It was hard though when I had to keep getting up to go get the birdies!!" -Shae
"Today I used teamwork to hit the birdie over the net with my partner Melissa!" -Jamie
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365 Fitness Blog
Who are we? MHC! Each day we explore our communty through fitness and recreation. Heres a way to stay connected and follow what we do!
December 2018

subset: commoncrawl


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Daily Trading set up, first we look at the general trend and what is occurring now.
First the Pink Square that is outlined is showing a consolidated range. Price has been chopping traders out in this zone for weeks. Trading days have been moving from 20-40 points with very fast moves of 5- 10 points occurring with in fifteen minutes. This has been painful for quite a number of traders waiting for the sell off only to be robbed as Price approaches the 200MA.
I have noted on the chart Fib extensions along with projection zones. The small zones above the present price action are revealing some fairly easy buy side targets. With Europe falling into the back and forth around Greece exit – Grexit, and the oil squeeze by the Saudis against Russia, we can expect these large moves as risk on, risk off, QE support and central bank purchases of equities is increasing. Read more about it here: Collision of Outliers.
Remember it is not often that markets run up or down in a straight line so there will be some consolidation in the present price levels looking for news, QE and or market makers to move in when no one is looking. Use your stops in this and don't trade open positions.
On the Downside I have noted a few areas of support which are open gaps based on a regular trading day, on this 24 hour chart. Breaking down to the previous swing low is also an easy target that would fill two open gaps.
This is where the fun starts. The Trading set up for tomorrow that we are looking for is a bounce equivalent to 50% of the previous days price action with a maximum of 23 points retraced from yesterdays close. From here we are looking for a buyers market in control with a new high coming.
The expected range is 16 for a consolidated range day, 23 points for a mid range trade day and 41 points for a volatile range day. There is a chance that we could put in a doji as the market consolidates more before a break of the channel. This could be 2 or three days.
Also expecting a small range day on oil as we had a volatile day setting new swing highs and giving some relief to the Canadian Dollar.
The post Daily trading plan SP500 Where is the market going February 4, 2015? appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Coming up to Calgary to trade with my partner for the week. There was a lot of volatility and some really nice trades available. Calgary is a boom town that is famous for the Stampede and has a sky line that is populated with skyscrapers from the previous 12 year oil boom. The almost 15 % change in the Canadian dollar is making it seem a little less expensive here. There are Audi's everywhere and people spend money consuming expensive dinners and wearing Lulu lemon. The cost of living is pretty high (compared to southern California), but people make a pretty good living and it seems that the economy is doing well.. Seems
Rolling into 2015 I am watching as the Canadian Dollar is trading at 1.26 to the US dollar. I have been up to see Fort MacMurray and the 10,0000 people oil camps last year with my son. Last night I met with a group of investor/traders at the Calgary Day Trading Group. It seems the property bubble is still in tact, that jobs are OK, but some workers from the "Camps" are coming home as collapsing oil prices are causing lay offs at the sands. I am putting up two charts of the USDCAD and the Mexican Peso. There are some similarities which you will see almost instantly.
and now the Peso.
Neither of these charts are giving a pretty picture for any currency strength in either Canada or Mexico.
What I am seeing in Canada is the convergence of many factors which can fundamentally weigh on the currencies strength and ability to weather this Oil storm.
Technically we could see the Canadian dollar heading to 1.30 then 1.40 over this next 6 to nine months. Unfortunately, it all is reliant on Oil and consumption in Canada. If we look at the chart you can see how the CAD dollar acted at this present price level and that it consolidated at this range for 3-4 months. This would put us into the second quarter.
If we see oil recover to a price target of $55 to $60 there will be short term recovery for the Canadian Dollar. If there is further selling, down to the critical price supports the Saudi Oil ministers said they can support we will see unemployment raise, Oil revenues fall and probably a housing correction under way. Presently, there is a stall in the housing market as always occurs when you have a harsh winter. The interesting thing is, that it was 55 degrees outside this week and the sun was bright and shiny. These two rectangles are showing where price could extend or where it could re trace. Both of these levels are crucial to the Canadian Dollar but won't pull it back to the 1.06 level to the dollar experienced in 2014. Oil would have to soar back to the $70 plus range for strength in the Canadian dollar.
The post Canadian Dollar and Peso – February 2015 Trading appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts –
The S&P 500 has been trading in quite the volatile range lately. Moves have been large and quick, with little warning before 20 point swings. Last weeks move to touch to lower support in the 1980 area and then turning has set a picture for what could come next.
The S&P E-mini futures are trading into an important area of resistance in the 2050-2060 area, on the weekly and daily charts. Here is where we will see the continuation of the direction or the turn to test back to previous support. If price trades to break through the 2060 area then we will be looking to see it move back to test the 2090.00 area again, with a longer term target up at the 2140 level. Price has had a tendency of being very choppy around the top in previous new highs, so some turbulence will be expected in the 2090 area without a clean high volume run through.
If we see price get stuck in the 2060 area of resistance then could be looking for a test back to previous support before continuing the move. Support is in at 2010 and at the 1980-90 previous low. In the last two attempts at support, the ES S&P500 has failed again to break below the 200 Day MA and now looks to be breaking back above the 50 Day MA as well should we see the move above 2060.00.
The post S&P 500 Day Trading – Time to buy or time to run? appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts.
Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts –
Gold trading 2015 where is price going?
2015 Gold trading has taken off with buyers moving into the market as a "disaster hedge" as more and more pressure is being put on the Euro. Gold bugs might finally be getting their day as trust in the Euro has fallen and Europe lies on the edge of economic disaster. Remember the risk off trade fluctuates between the Dollar, Yen and bonds. The volatility of Gold makes it a high risk "disaster hedge" when economies or countries are on the brink of devastating economic change.
Price fluctuation and Gold Trading 2015
The average daily range for gold is getting more and more volatile in 2015 as Central Bankers are manipulating interest rates and adding liquidity to markets through Quantitative Easing. This means the incestuous buying of their own bonds and purchasing of equities.
Gold buyers moved in and bought through a major resistance at 1252-1256. This is of major importance because the door is open to further buying to 1300 which is the first psychological resistance and could signal the end of the bear market. Watch for gold trading to consolidate at 1290 to 1320 area. as noted in the zone market on the chart.
Buyers moving in above this level could get through the next area of resistance at 1340. Gold trading above this area will start what could be the next Bull market in this commodity. The next area of resistance is the red zone from 1340 to 1356. Previously, sellers moved in and kept the direction of the bear market here. There was a lot of market makers in the futures side selling on this move, but physical demand was not being met.
As mentioned on the Money Maker Edge™ blog if you are using a "Plan B" buying physical gold on dips for gradual accumulation will give you an edge as a hedge against what could be coming with the confluence of international banking manipulations. Don't put you self at risk by buying so much that you can't afford to live. Remember this is a disaster hedge, not a risk off trade.
The post Gold Trading 2015 Targets – where is price going? appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts.
The S&P500 emini futures have been very volatile this month coming out of multiple international crisis level events.
The S&P500 is presently in a chop zone that is roughly 120 points in consolidation on the daily chart. The support came in at 1965 and has moved back and forth between there and the swing high. I have placed a fibonacci extension over the previous correction to the swing high to show possible price extensions. You might note the area from 2060 and the swing high to 2090 is where the market could consolidate and then spring board for the next targets around 2120, 2159 and 2220.
You can probably see again how corrections are taking 4 to 7 days to move down and then 2-3 days to move up when it breaks out of consolidation. Presently, if price falls from this level, we could see a bit longer move down as we are in a Head and Shoulders Bearish pattern. Note that Head and Shoulders Bear patterns have not taken a full extension down for the past few years and that I would expect to see them quickly reverse.
Central Banks are moving the markets and creating a very volatile intra-day trading situation. Futures trading is an overnight market so Central Banks policy, intervention through Quantitative Easing and use of interest manipulation will first show up in the futures market. Be aware that some of these swings have been 20 to 40 handles (points) in the after hours only to be followed by volatile gaps, and intraday reversals covering 20 to 40 points.
I have highlighted the open gaps on the chart above, you will see them as small rectangles showing where the previous days close and the next days open have not filled. Noting these as downside targets for sell offs. and of course the major psychological support of 1800. If we break under here watch for the bid to be pulled and maybe some free fall. Always remember that trading is risky, don't trade unless you know what you are doing and have risk capital. Don't trade with your rent money, that is gambling!
The post Futures Trading January 2015 Where are markets headed? appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
I am writing my Annual report for our proprietary fund ignoring this intuitive feeling that we are on the door step of a financial contagion. January has started out fast and furious in the world with combinations of terrorism, and financial decay moving into what the main stream media paints as a healthy American Market. In the shadow of this booming market for "Market Makers" we have watched the wealthy become super wealthy and the middle class almost disappear. I live in California, a place of eternal sunshine, wearing shorts in December- January, where a sort of eternal optimism pervades and entrepreneurial capital flows. Everyone that lives around me is either a upper division public servant (police, homeland security, fire chief) or an Entrepreneur working their own business. The jobs for the public sector have been booming, the entrepreneurs have been letting people go and working themselves. Most of my acquaintances who were anti gun this past year have purchased their first guns. It is surprising in the sheer numbers of my semi conservative semi liberal middle of the road acquaintances have made this their middle of the road. This is the environment I am watching spread through wealthy neighborhoods close to me. You can't even get range time reserved for shooting practice. Prices for practice have gone up and times are booked weeks in advance.
I can't ignore my intuition when it is driven through facts, this is for my friends and my students.
I talk to people around me and notice they are so complacent about the war we have been in, and the perilous heights the markets have reached from bonds to the S&P500. The complacent think it is all taken care of, they have funded their pensions, everything is going to be alright. Smart people have a "
Santions + Worthless Ruble + Oil cratering + 80% of people are concerned over food = Putin taking the off the ball with either "War" or "Aggression"
This outlier can unfold in many ways. With Pain coming from decreasing consumption from Europe in the form of Food, manufacturing and machine tooling from Germany coupled with financing from England….this is all changed.
The next step is in progress – retaliation and here is the start. Russia shifts Exporting Natural Gas to Europe for Turkey. This is Huge. Also the Petro Ruble which will be used instead of the Petro Dollar trade.
Gold trading in the derivatives market is leveraged and highly volatile. Most traders can't afford to hold large positions. Volume has been increasing on this move up and we are seeing "Scared Money" come in strong this past week. "Fear drives Gold prices" Joel Wissing
I have always been of the mind that if the economy collapses to the point where you are going to have to use gold or silver then you might invest in firearms too, because you will need them to keep your gold. That being said, getting an ounce of physical gold on the dips could be a good idea. Just be careful how you keep it. There are plenty of prep-per websites for ideas. Picking up an ounce or two could be part of your "plan B"
Most people are watching for Greece to go, but like Lehmans, there are plenty of banks that could collapse, over leveraged financial institutions that have margin calls or even clients shifting assets. UBS richest clients just did a shift to the dollar.
I am not saying the dollar is a safe bet, but for now in the quagmire of financial reality(sh*t), it is going to be the last man standing if we collapse tomorrow.
Pressure on the Euro is coming from everywhere and this insurgency of clashing cultures is not dissipating it is accelarating. Plan B – hold a credit card or bank account in another country in a different currency, and hold another passport. Not everything unless you are the richest man in China he moved it to multiple currencies in the Cayman Islands.
The US is at a crucial juncture with many outside pressures that could correct the markets. A correction is normally 10%, but the problem is that there is so much complacency in the market that if a "Market Maker Sell" hits and no on is on the other side to buy, then the market can go into free fall. There are protections, but they can be short lived as more people after seeing the government "halt trading" have a tendency to panic and sell when the market opens.
The three small blue lines are unfilled gaps where the market has a tendency to come back and fill. These are down side targets on the chart. We have entered a choppy zone where the traders are indecisive and there could be many bounces back and forth until direction is found and the "Market Makers" Choose a direction.
"Plan B" Be able to short the market, Falling markets are where fortunes are made. Educate yourself and become financially literate.
Will it happen today? Will the market crash tomorrow? Will it crash in our sleep? I don't know when or how but I do know to keep my eyes open to direction, stop listening to the talking heads. Read, investigate and find the ways to create your "Plan B"
There is a lot going on in the world and the main stream media is keeping most people fed with a mixture of fear "Ebola" and fixation "princes, religion, the web" . I am very fortunate that I have people around me that have educated me in economics, business and the way of the "Market Makers". You too can take responsibility for yourself by starting a "Plan B" and gradually implementing it, step by step, to secure yourself and family and focus on your passions. It is the only way out.
The post Financial Markets 2015 Collision of Outliers appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Few weeks ago, I was thinking by touching the red down trend line at 89$, dollars will go down and gold up….I was wrong. Since it did not happen, I start to look for the next turning point, witch will be at the "orange line". at 96-97$ on this chart.
On this chart Silver is at 2000price, witch it's equivalent to 15.5$ currency price.
The fat red line, represent very strong resistance, if silver go below this trend line, the next ressitance will be at about 9$ and then 5$/oz
I'm sure people think I'm crazy to see Silver that low…and saying this is impossible… but not long time ago, when silver was at 25-20$…many people was also seeing im crazy to see silver drop at 15$ price range.
<– this is a quick Gold chart where you can see how Silver and Gold are struggling to stay above the present bottom price.
By being in a pennant..we should see the next long term direction very soon.
For Gold Price target and direction, see past Blog post, by Joel Wissing.
Since I know some people who are looking to buy Natural Gaz right now because they think it's over sold. I decide to get this chart , where they could see in a very long term the Natural gaz price movement.
If you analyse properly…you will understand, that see Natural Gaz at 3.3$ is not a big deal so far.. and the bottom price , it's at about 2.2$, when it touche the Green Trend line ( bull Trend)
Oh Ya ! let's go back on US Dollars , Oil, Gold and Silver….next movement…
You have to understand…the reason why US Dollars keep moving Up, it's because oil price get cheaper and cheaper. And everyone know the reason it's because of OPEC ( created by United State with the Petro-Dollars) who are doping Oil price on purpose, to please USA… And knowing Arabic Saudi are loosing a lot of money right now, true cheap oil… the day they will decide to bring the Oil price back to the tops, USA will start to loose the currency war… The key question it's if it will happen soon enough, before we see gold and Silver, going so low, so it won't go back any time soon to create new all time highs.
Let's Simplify all this information!
They important think to understand is :
Two know what to do… Watch OPEC release news
Crude oil is testing a strong Bullish Trend ( green line). And it's why we can see Oil price stop at 50-55$. We could see it go back to 80-82$, and then retest the Bullish trend line. This will give a break for pretty much every country who export oil.
If ever they succeed to break 50-55$ range, this will be catastrophic for everyone, are a world recession may start. And the bottom price will be at 40$
If…again , we break the 40, next price range will be 40-20 and this is very bad, since it can stay in this range for very long time.
But since it's the OPEC who control the Crude Oil price, and it's more a political game between Russia, USA, and Arab Saudi ( witch are loosing a lot's of money right now in this game)…I really don't think anyone will consider to drop Oil under 40$..
The post Does America winning the Currency war? appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Gold trading in 2015.We have seen the same transition in the Gold market where the "gold bugs" have been beaten down. The risk off trade is to the dollar, not gold. Gold is too volatile to be held as a risk hedge. Gold is held as a "Disaster Hedge" when there is a threat of war or some devastating economic turmoil.
The gold markets volume has changed dramatically changed this past year and we might see less participation on the individual investor side. If we have falling demand for gold in the derivatives market, it means would could see some extra price volatility in the daily ranges.
Watch for lack of commitment on the buyers side in the volatility. This means we could see a consolidation zone being followed by sell offs to new levels. If we were to see a continuation in direction with the $360 annual range, we might see tests to $780 range. Remember there is no rational sell off or real price to be attained and the price could sell off to even the $600 range or more if there is some type of capitulation or default in the derivatives markets. If there is then the upside would be to previous swing highs $1360, 1580 then 1800. (not likely)
The dollar index has been our major focus in our proprietary fund this year. The dollar index has been the major influence on price action in the major pairs, index trading, Gold and Oil. There has been quite a bit of volatility with momentum to the upside working in favor of most trades, mixed with oil price adjustments that have hurt many USD trades as the economies of the oil producing countries have some what cratered.
The key to the next year will be in trading the Dollar index and the price levels of support and resistance. We are posting a long term chart with some upside targets. Remember markets don't normally move straight up or down and we will of course see some pull backs as the "unknown's come in to play".
If we have a continuation of the present direction of the dollar index we are targeting 92.56 and 99.10 for major resistance. This could take many months and watch for some consolidation for an upside continuation to occur. The dollar index has plenty of buy side momentum and could continue for the next year at this rate. The five year decline from 2002 to 2007 and the ensuing 2 years of consolidation in a 4 point range from 2012 -2014 built enough pressure in the market to bring us up over 10 penny in 6 months. There seems to be no let up on the buyer side which could keep this direction.
The dollar index has broken above the 200MA on the monthly chart, also above the 28.2 retracement an has a clear path to new highs.
The post Trading in 2015 – the unknown is what to watch out for. appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Gold daily chart. There are two ways to look at this chart. The traders expecting gold to bottom and start it's bull run and the Dollar index traders looking for new highs and corresponding Gold collapse.
2014 saw a yearly high of 1391.71 and low of 1131.85 giving the gold market a yearly $360 range.
With the Yearly range in mind, let's take a look at a monthly chart and see what the price action for Gold has been.
Gold has broken under the major support at $1200 and has spent the last two months testing new lows on this bearish cycle.
You can see in the previous chart the 200 day Moving average for gold is coming in the $1254 area and this is the resistance which traders are looking for the turn around and break of this major down trend.
The short term support under 1200 comes in at 1050 and then a full extension would take gold to $840 with a capitulatory target in a major sell off to the previous swing lows at $675.
Remember there are no "rational levels" when trading the volatility of gold and high risk markets. The Dollar index, political pressure and banking manipulation will have a lot of effect as this 2015 keeps course. We have pressure in a declining world economy out of Europe, Russian and even China that could start a continuation of this "super cycle" in commodities.
The post Gold Trade – End of year targets appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 learn how to trade day traders..
Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts –
Dollar index has soared to a previous swing high, crushing the Ruble through Oil price deflation.
Dollar Index has completed a multi-year retracement to previous swing highs. This multi-year high has implications across the board for many oil economies from Syria, Iran, Russia and Iraq which are dependent on oil sales to hold their economy's strength.
At these levels, the dollar index has pushed commodities into a deflationary cycle that could push some economies into a further recession.
Price Action on the Dollar index
Dollar Index targets on a weekly chart.
The consolidation zone from 87.50 to 88.50 will show us where the market is headed. There is a bit of exhaustion in the Dollar index at these levels and there will probably be some stimulus to continue direction after the FOMC meeting Wednesday.
Downside targets for support are 85.50 to 86.25 where we had previous consolidation and resistance at 92.50 to 93.50.
Although there has been a lot of upside movement in the dollar this move has not shown any sort of capitulation. Price at these levels previously exhibited price failure and the inability to keep direction as sellers moved in.
The dollar price action is effecting many commodities and the economies of many countries whose source of income is Oil.
Look for continued volatility as there is political pressure on both Russia, Syria and Iran and this might add strength to the dollar if there is any saber rattling.
45% of Russia's economy is supported by oil and this move in oil and the deterioration of the value of the ruble could lead to intervention in the market by Russia's central bank. This added volatility will make for wild movement and extreme caution should be used in trading in this environment.
If you are not used to trading in a volatile market, it is best to sit on the side than to expose your self to this much risk. Market makers are also getting beaten up in this environment and you would be best to sit on the side lines than to participate. Trading is high risk.
The post Dollar Index Ruble War and Oil appeared first on Day trading course S&P 500 Managed Trading Accounts.


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Of course, Lao Tzu might counsel us that being the star student or employee is not half as much as it's cracked up to be. When we gain these types of accolades and rewards, we tend to do so by meeting other people's expectations. Often times, we don't really even give a hoot about such expectations ourselves, yet we do the needed work to ensure a fatter paycheck or to get our name on the honor roll.
As I've mentioned in this space before, for all my own idiosyncrasies and foibles, the rampant desire to stand out has not been one of them. For example, if I wanted to be a star blogger with thousands of followers, I could have chosen dozens of other focus topics instead of philosophical Taoism! By choosing to concentrate on this arcane subject -- in terms of western society -- I've all but guaranteed that I will never crack the top 10,000 list of blogs. I'm not losing any sleep over it either!
I've also discussed -- influenced by my social avoidance disorder and Asperger's Syndrome -- that my chief volunteer activity in the community is washing dishes for events at the United Church of Raymond. Such events could not be carried out without someone to wash dishes, but such volunteers rarely receive any recognition whatsoever (which is fine by me). No, the cooks, organizers and sponsors are the ones asked to come out to take a bow.
I don't deserve a pat on the back for my penchant for taking on the type of assignments that are so needed, yet rarely noticed. As mentioned above, I seek these kinds of tasks out due to my peculiar personality traits. But there are scores of people who don't have this type of avoidance issue who, like me, take on the needed background roles. They are the ones that should be honored. They are the ones who make this world a better place to live.
This post is part of a series. For an introduction, go here.


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Part 3 of Linkara's Cass retrospective is up. We've covered the highs, now we get to the lows:
Part 3 of Linkara's Cass retrospective is up. We've covered the highs, now we get to the lows:
Informative. SHame what happened with Beechem.
Le Suck it, Dolphin!
-God I am so tired.
And here's the final part:
Cool videos, informative. The guy speaking is pretty loud but whatever, the content is sound. (silent justice...sound...i'm a master of comedy)
Oh wow, the Linkara-AtopTheFourthWall series on Cassie is so good! I'm part way through Part 3 and it is so cathartic and enjoyable to hear him skewer DC for cancelling Cassandra's series and then doing the One Year Later travesty against her. I'm excited to finish Part 3 and then get some positivity with her return in BRE+.
Right on about Linkara's slightly nasal semi-yelling speaking style - it's a bit wearing. I'm spoiled buy the buttery-voiced YouTubers LEMMiNO and LGR who could read a phone book and sound good.
But Linkara's Cass-analysis is solid gold, enjoyable and much appreciated. Thanks for the links!
And behold I shall be a blight upon the land and everything I touch shall wither and die.
"We're the same thing, you and I. We're both lies that eventually became the truth." Lara Notsil, Star Wars: X-Wing: Solo Command, by Aaron Allston
"All that is not eternal is eternally out of date." C. S. Lewis, The Four Loves
"There's room in our line of work for hope, too." Stephanie Brown, Batgirl, by Bryan Q. Miller
Stephanie Brown Wiki, My Batman Universe Reviews
1568738428839.jpg If this is Cassandra Cain in Birds of Prey film imagine if she got this look in the comics.


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The course is a beginners introduction to working with crystals so no previous experience is required. The class is for those who are curious about crystals and how they can benefit you. The format of the course varies from course to course. Often I haven't met the people who are coming so I will adapt the course for their needs on the day. It will include the subjects below:
1. How to choose, cleanse, charge and activate your crystals for healing.
2. Introduction to dowsing with rods and pendulums.
3. How to construct crystal grids to manifest intentions, such as increasing personal prosperity, protection, health, relationship harmony and more.
4. How to use crystals for a body layout for chakra alignment.
5. Crystal essences.
6. Crystal labyrinths
7. Crystal meditation.
It's surprising how many people have crystals ... and keep them in a drawer or a box! It's a bit like having a car and keeping it in the garage. If you don't take the car out of the garage and use it then it's no use: it's the same with crystals. I will show you different ways of using them.
Please bring a mat to lie on and a pillow and blanket/sleeping bag. If you are unable to lie down you can sit in a chair. If you have a pendulum then please bring it along. If you don't have one then I have plenty you can borrow.
The workshop is being held in rooms in The Courtyard at Blakemere Village above the candle shop. The entrance is between the candle shop and the craft shop. I will put a sign on the door! There is no lift upstairs so if you have mobility problems please contact me to discuss. Please arrive at 9.45am to start at 10.00am
If you need any more information then please phone Pauline on 01606 594628 or email her at email@example.com
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?
Minimum age of 18
What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Free parking 20 yards from the venue.
What can I bring into the event?
Mat, pillow and blanket. Pendulum if you have one.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Email or phone. Details above.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?


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text: "Bring enough gun…" It's a common expression at both ranges and hunting cabins, but can be applied whenever a buddy buys some huge caliber rifle or shotgun and shows it off for the first time. Nevertheless, we decided to point out some of the finer points of those titanic gatts of the safari. Why When European and American adventurers came to Africa in the 1800s, they found the continent teeming with exotic wildlife. While there was many of the same types of hunting scenarios as there were back home, (e.g. upland birds, small game, deer etc.), there were also some incredibly dangerous big game animals. The five most fatal of these, called the Big Five, or the Fatal Five, were the African elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, Cape buffalo, and lion. Archduke Franz Ferdinand, elephant hunter, c 1893. These animals were difficult to hunt, especially on foot and when cornered, they were incredibly dangerous as all could mount attacks rapidly. Immense 13,000-pound elephants could charge, almost totally concealed from tall grass and trample a hunter flat before he could get a shot off. A 2000-pound black rhino's skin is thick enough to deflect small and even medium caliber rounds. One of the Tsavo lions. The 200-pound leopard was a master of the stalk, only appearing at night to ambush its prey. The Cape buffalo, stubborn even when wounded, could ambush pursuers and turn the tables in the blink of an eye, earning these unlikely bovines the dubious reputation as one of the most successful killers of humans on the continent. Finally, we all know the lion as "the king of the jungle". A pair of these creatures, known as the Tsavo Man-Eaters, killed no less than 35 workers along the Kenya-Uganda railway project in 1898. This epic lion v. man battle was depicted in the 1996 film The Ghost and the Darkness. A gripping scene from Ghost in the Darkness. The novel and film were based off a true story. With animals like these, your regular off the shelf rounds just did not cut it. Shotgun origins A 4-bore muzzleloading shotgun. When the first European hunters came to the continent, they did so with huge muzzle loading blackpowder shotguns. The most popular of these were up to 4-gauge (yes, that's a single digit) monsters that fired quarter pound solid slugs propelled by 500-grains of black powder. When you remember that the Colt Walker, the most powerful handgun until the advent of the .357 Magnum, only held a powder charge of 60-grains of BP, you can get a feel for how big these guns were. While these scatterguns did the trick at extremely close ranges, by the 1900s, things got more advanced. 6-bore BP shotgun, used for elephants, 1880s. Big rifles for big characters By the 1900s going to Africa or India on safari was the fashionable thing to do. European royalty, authors, and industrialists spent weeks plodding around the wilds of the oldest continent, accompanied by teams of guides, and porters. These guides became the great professional hunters of the 20th century's golden era of man vs. beast safari action. These men, like Frederick Courteney Selous (thought to be the basis of the mythical extraordinary gentleman Allan Quatermain), Swedish Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke, and WDM 'Karamojo' Bell led talented amateurs like Teddy Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway into the mouth of the Fatal Five and back out again safely. European adventurers on safari. The rifles these hunters carried were unlike anything ever seen before. Custom gun makers in England such as Gibbs, Bland and Sons, and Holland and Holland (H&H), as well as the American firm of Griffin and Howe, and the German DW Mauser concern produced extremely well crafted rifles in monstrous calibers. Gibbs safari rifle. Note the resemblance to the Ruger No. 1 of today. Ruger No. 1 on safari. These included .416 Rigby, .404 Jeffery, and .505 Gibbs. The .505 was a four-inch long cartridge that fired a 525-grain bullet large enough to be classified today as a 'Destructive Device' in the US. The most popular of these guns were single-shot falling block Gibbs-Farquharson rifles, a design that Ruger copied and improved upon for their No.1 rifle in the 1960s. These vintage guns today are highly collectable. These British big bores saw service in World War 1, used to snipe at passing German Zeppelins as well as the first Teutonic tanks that clattered across No Man's Land. Other old school cartridges from the turn of the century include the 9.3x62mm, a European howitzer popular with gentlemen hunters who wandered the mountains of faraway lands in search of the largest bears and cats they could find (all while wearing fine tweed jackets). In America, bison hunters carried the Winchester Model 1895 in .405 Winchester, and this gun made more than a couple guest appearances in Africa. British officer enlisting elephant gun as a special duty sniper rifle during WW!. The end of this era of great safari hunters was the death of Peter Capstick in 1996. Capstick walked in the same footsteps as TR, Hemingway, Selous and others and his book on the subject, "Death in the Long Grass," is one of the best of its kind. Safari guns of today The practice of safari hunts today is a dying custom with just a small number of international sportsmen chasing bucket list game and keeping a faint ember of the chase alive. Many of the traditional Fatal Five are off the menu even for the uber-wealthy, such as the endangered black rhino and the protected lion and the African bush elephant. The 600 Nitro Express is just your typical elephant round these days. Populations of Cape buffalo and some of the big cats are still open to those with wallets big enough to chase them. As such, animals like wildebeest and eland have been proposed as substitutes and are gaining popularity, although they just don't have the panache of stalking lions. Ruger Tropical in 375 H&H. The Browning BAR Safari rifle comes in some larger but much more manageable calibers like .338 Win. Mag. which is acceptable on any of the big cats. The baseline rifle of safari hunters in Africa today starts with the .375 caliber H&H Magnum and moves up from there. In many African countries that still allow hunting of these exotic game animals, this is actually the minimum legal chambering that sportsmen are allowed to bring to the field. The exception to this many places are big cats, which are taken with calibers as small as .300 Win Mag. Safari hunter with custom gun of unknown make and wildebeest. Safari guns are still the realm of custom gun makers who turn out extremely high quality single shot and bolt-action rifles in .500 Nitro, .460 Weathersby Magnum, .700 Nitro and the mind boggling .950 JDJ. Commercial firms like Ruger however have always shown some interest in this market, churning out their $1350 No. 1 Tropical in .375 H&H as a more "entry level" priced rifle. European firms like Mauser, CZ, Sako, and Tikka are still keeping the 100-year old 9.3x62mm alive with semi-affordable bolt-action rifles. .458 Win Mag rounds (introduced in the 1950s and based off the .375 H&H) compared to a cigarette. The rounds for these modern day elephant slayers are almost as expensive as the guns made to fire them. It's not uncommon for these cigar-sized cartridges to run $10 a pop in the case of the moderately priced .416 Rigsby to well over $100 a round for the hard to find .577 Tyrannosaur. Made in 1993, the four inch-long .577 T-rex generates over 10,000 ft. lbs of energy by pushing a 750-grain monolithic solid round out of its 75mm long case. Besides the cost and the limitation of game, today is just not the 1900s and budding Fatal Five hunters themselves have become the quarry of environmentalists. When Go Daddy CEO Bob Parsons took down an elephant with the blessing of the local government. .577 Nitro Express compared to a .22 CB. Increasingly and ironically, since the veldt of Africa is off limits, Western big game hunters have switched back from the deserts and jungle to the forests and mountains of North America. Here, giant Alaskan brown bear, mountain lions, wolves, and black bear have replaced the legendary safari animals of old. With these creatures, you still have to bring enough gun, but firearms chambered in the lighter .338 and .300 Wby Mag made by domestic companies are better suited than the artillery pieces of yesteryear. And you don't have to pay a porter to tote your ammo for you. The 700 nitro express in a 3 min blooper reel of sorts. By the way, 700 Nitro is $425 for five shots, making this clip almost as expensive as the "Lone Ranger" but twice as entertaining.


text: Launched in October 1987 for the French Supertouring Championship, the Renault 21 4x4 project claimed its first podium finished barely five months later in its first race. In the end, Jean Ragnotti and Jean-Louis Bousquet went on to win six of the ten races on the calendar, an impressive, almost unbelievable feat given that the car represented a genuine technical revolution! Meticulous work had been done in wind tunnel testing on the car's aerodynamics. Mechanically, the car featured a new 430 hp engine, the power of which was curbed by a blow-off valve taken from F1™, and a 2.35m-long carbon fibre driveshaft. A well-designed car that was incredibly effective!


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Microsoft USB Fan
Originally uploaded by JoshB.
I've needed one of these for a while, so I snagged one at PDC.
The foam blades were bent back and out of shape while it was packed in the box, so at first, the blades weren't moving any air at all. I tried to kind of bend them back, but it's not perfect yet…


text:
On Thursday, President Trump gave a press conference variously described as morose, upbeat, combative, aggressive, brilliant, and unhinged. Everyone could certainly agree on one thing: it was wildly entertaining.
But it was also wild.
There were too many odd moments to pick a through-line, though the closest would be Trump attacking the media incessantly. Of course, Trump has done that for over a year, and it's still working, largely because the media have destroyed their own credibility by turning every conflict with Trump into an umbrage-ridden exercise in pomposity. Perhaps the best description of Trump and the media today comes from Emily Zanotti of Heat Street:
The right celebrates that Trump keeps hitting the media with a hammer. The left is shocked that Trump has a hammer. Given today's press conference, neither is completely wrong.
So, here were takeaways from today's rather insane presser:
1. Trump Has Never Done Anything Wrong. Trump led off with a recitation of all the wonderful things he's done so far. "I'm here today to update the American people on the incredible progress that has been made in the last four weeks since my inauguration. We have made incredible progress. I don't think there's ever been a president elected who in this short period of time has done what we've done," Trump explained. He then cited polls showing his popularity. He got defensive, of course, because Trump hates criticism – he ripped on the media, as per his usual arrangement, and said that "many of our nation's reporters and folks will not tell you the truth" (Fact check: true); he also stated that the rollout of his immigration and refugee executive order was "very smooth" (Fact check: false), and that his administration was running "like a fine-tune machine" (Fact check: he just fired his National Security Advisor three weeks in).
2. Trump's Going To Blame Obama. In time-tested Obama-esque technique, Trump immediately blamed Barack Obama for everything wrong on planet earth. Much of this is deserved. But according to Trump, he gets all the credit in the world for the stock market, which seems odd since the stock market climbed dramatically under his predecessor. "To be honest, I inherited a mess," Trump said. "It's a mess. At home and abroad, a mess." True. But let's hope that Trump does something to straighten out the mess, rather than just complaining about it as Obama did for eight interminable years.
3. Trump's Going To Blame Everything On The Media. Everything is the media's fault. He said that intelligence leaks were real, but the news was fake – which only makes sense if he's saying that the news reports draw the wrong conclusions from the facts they report. Otherwise, it's just silly. He said CNN wasn't just fake news, it was very fake news (to guffaws from Sean Spicer and Kellyanne Conway, who also led cheers alongside Steve Bannon). He drove the media batty. It was actually hilarious. Perhaps Trump's finest moment came when he started talking about how the media hated him: "I see tone. You know the word 'tone.' The tone is such hatred. I'm really not a bad person, by the way. No, but the tone is such – I do get good ratings, you have to admit that – the tone is such hatred." He then plugged Fox & Friends. He continued, "I'd be a pretty good reporter..I know what's good. I know what's bad."
4. Trump Will Never Let The Election Go. Trump talked about the polls. He talked about Hillary Clinton. A lot. He talked about her reset button. He talked about her getting questions from the media before a debate with Bernie Sanders (twice). He cited her uranium machinations with the Russian atomic energy agency. He said that he had won the biggest electoral college landslide since Ronald Reagan (Fact check: false). When called on that, Trump said, "I don't know, I was just given…we had a very, very big margin… I don't know, I was given that information…actually, I've seen that information around. But it was a very substantial victory, do you agree with that?"
5. Trump Still Has No Good Explanation For Firing Mike Flynn. Trump said, "Mike Flynn is a fine person, and I asked for his resignation." Why? Because he didn't tell Vice President Mike Pence that he had discussed sanctions with the Russian government. But Trump said that he would have told Flynn to do that. He even said, "If anything, [Flynn] did something right…he was doing his job. The thing is, he didn't tell our vice president properly." So Flynn didn't do anything wrong but fib to Pence. And Trump knew that Flynn had fibbed to Pence two weeks before Pence found out. And Trump didn't just ask Flynn to publicly apologize to Pence, he fired him. None of this washes.
6. Trump Didn't Clearly Answer Whether Anyone In His Campaign Had Talked To Russia. This is the question the media will never let go, although there is no evidence of nefarious ties between Trump's campaign and the Russians. They believe that Trump was working with the Russians to skew the election. Trump's not helping. He kept saying he had not personally spoken with the Russians, and then added that he had no personal knowledge that anyone in his campaign had done so, including Paul Manafort. The key here is "knowingly." Trump concluded, "Russia is fake news. Russia – this is fake news put out by the media."
7. Trump Will Not Say Anything Seriously Negative About Russia. Asked about Russia placing a spy vessel off the coast, a ballistic missile test, and a Russian plane buzzing a US destroyer, Trump simply repeated "Not good" over and over. Then he blamed the media for Russian aggression: "[I]f you were Putin right now, you would say, "Hey, we're back to the old games with the United States; there's no way Trump can ever do a deal with us." Because the — you have to understand. If I was just brutal on Russia right now, just brutal, people would say, you would say, "Oh, isn't that wonderful." But I know you well enough." He followed that up with one of the great military lines by any American president:
If Russia and the United States actually got together and got along — and don't forget, we're a very powerful nuclear country and so are they. There's no up-side. We're a very powerful nuclear country and so are they. I have been briefed. And I can tell you one thing about a briefing that we're allowed to say because anybody that ever read the most basic book can say it, nuclear holocaust would be like no other.
Fact check: True. A nuclear holocaust would be the yugest holocaust.
Trump also vowed not to tell the press his Russian strategy, but said he hoped he wouldn't do anything ("I'm not going to tell you. But hopefully, I won't have to do anything, but I'm not going to tell you"). Yeah. Just yeah.
8. Trump Takes Everything As A Slight. A few minutes before the end of the presser, Trump began judging questions "nice" or "not nice." His first question along these lines came from a reporter at Ami magazine, an Orthodox Jewish magazine. The reporter said that nobody was accusing Trump of anti-Semitism, but did Trump have a plan to deal with rising anti-Semitism in the country. Trump immediately accused him of lying, asking an unfair question; he then said he wasn't anti-Semitic, and said the reporter was insulting. This was rather nutty, to put it mildly. He then called on a reporter who asked him a softball about Melania, and he responded by vowing to watch her network. Later, another reporter asked Trump about rising anti-Semitism; he simply blamed it on the left.
9. Trump Isn't Deporting Everybody. Ann Coulter hardest hit: "We're gonna show great heart, DACA is a very, very difficult subject for me, I will tell you. To me, it's one of the most difficult subjects I have because you have these incredible kids…I love these kids, I love kids, I have kids and grandkids…" He didn't answer if he'd deport DREAMers. The true answer: no way in hell.
10. Trump Has A Weird Idea That A Black Reporter Should Set Up Meetings For Him With Other Black People. April Ryan, a black reporter from American Urban Radio Networks, asked Trump about his plan for inner cities. He called her question "very professional and very good" and then asked her to set up a meeting with the Congressional Black Caucus. She said that wasn't her job, she's "just a reporter." To which Trump responded, "Let's go set up a meeting, I would love to meet with the Black Caucus." This was odd, since April Ryan doesn't work for the CBC. Ah, well.
To really experience the full glory of the Trump presser, it has to be watched. Trump certainly isn't going to lack for ratings. And him doing the same routine that got him here won't alienate his base of support – and him hammering the media into oblivion will help him greatly. But Trump's wildly varying tone, his defensiveness, his lack of grasp of the issues, his confusing answers about the Flynn firing – none of it is likely to reassure voters who feel confused by the chaos of the last two weeks.


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Pizza + Acrobatics + Gurus
March 27, 2012
I slept for a full 12 hours last night. My friend K left yesterday morning after being here in Buenos Aires to visit me for 8 days, so we've been running around like crazy, staying out late, and eating tons of yummy and exhausting food. Coffee, cheese, sugar, and red meat are all delicious but digesting them tires out my body!
But here are some photos you can drool over (and a few of the scenery too):
To burn off some of the pounds I've packed on these past few weeks, I went to an Aerial Yoga/Silks/Acrobat class, my second. That isht is hard. I can only pull myself about 12 inches off of the ground but once the teacher puts a knot in the fabric it's much more fun.
After class a friend invited me for lunch at a Peruvian restaurant. The funny thing is that they had chicken noodle soup on the menu. I haven't seen chicken noodle soup since I got down here 6 months ago, and I was wishing for chicken noodle soup just this morning after I woke up with a scratchy throat and runny nose. Manifest!!!
I spent the rest of the day walking around the city, running errands before I head down to Patagonia – curry powder for my friend down there, stocking up on my favorite soap and cookies, etc. While wandering I was listening to the awesome Guru Singh podcast. Guru Singh is a Kundalini Yoga teacher at Yoga West in Los Angeles; he always starts class with a profound 30 minute lecture that I've missed since leaving LA.
In this podcast Guru Singh was talking about how every problem contains the solution.
"What keeps us from this stage [solution/change] is that our challenges, our problems, and our questions identify us.
And we would rather maintain our identity than solve our challenges.
That's not you being a bad person, that's you being normal… we have to break that pattern."
Check out Guru Singh's tweets here! Yes, he tweets.
No-Sugar Challenge Update + Apologies
March 11, 2012
I know I've done a horrible job at sharing Argentina with you via this blog. Not to mention my road trip across the US last summer. I was reviewing some photos and video last night, and there are some beautiful ones. Perhaps someday when I'm bored and have absolutely nothing to do, I will finally disinter those photos and videos for you. But considering the infinitude of interestingness on the interwebs, and immediate access to practically every book known to man on my Kindle, I'm not sure if that's realistic.
Anyways, as far as Argentina goes at least, I'd like to make it up to you by directing you to my friend's blog, Go!Dream!Live! No wait, it's Dream!Go!Live! Which, when delivered to my inbox, I always read as "dreamg olive". She does what I aspire to do – consistently shares her experience and photos of life in Buenos Aires.
It's not that I haven't been writing. I have been writing, lots, every day. I just haven't been converting any of that into bloggage. I think I just need to get back into the habit of posting, and the only way I've successfully made habits for myself is by doing Challenges. But I've been focusing on the No Sugar Challenge. One at a time.
So! The No Sugar Challenge!!! On March 13th, in two days, I will have officially and successfully completed 30 days of No Sugar. This is, by a long shot, the longest I have ever gone without eating refined sugar.
What did this lack of sugar do? (And coffee – I didn't really drink coffee at this time either, as they pretty much go together for me – I can drink coffee black, but here in Buenos Aires coffee means medialunas or cookies, and those were definitely out).
-Skin: My skin cleared up. The acne and little bumps I get, especially on my forehead, have pretty much gone away, and my psoriasis is less red. However, I did up my dairy intake exponentially while not eating sugar, so I continue to have a few pimples around my jawline and my psoriasis didn't fully clear.
-Energy: I started waking up earlier. 5:30am most days. I love getting up early, and I love not feeling groggy. That could be as much from stopping coffee as from stopping sugar. This past week I've been feeling exceptionally exhausted, but I think that's mostly due to the intensity of the Vipassana course I did last week, and a lot of emotional processing I've been doing. And, probably, my body trying to digest all the cheese.
-Weight: I lost a little weight, but not much, due to the large quantities of cheese and organic yogurt (sugar-free) that I've been eating. And steak, and pizza… I met a wonderful Dutch girl at Vipassana and during her four days in Buenos Aires I HAD to take her to all the best food spots. Of course. And, um, I bought a beautiful book called Pizzerias de Buenos Aires…
Oh and near the end of the month I also found that amazing raw sugar-free chocolate at Buenos Aires Verde, and a few days ago discovered sugar-free helado at Juaja, my favorite of which is the lemon ginger. YUM!
-Clarity/Mood: I have a lot more clarity when I'm not eating sugar – clarity as to what I want in life, what really makes me happy, insights into myself and others. Last time I gave up alcohol/sugar for a few weeks, a series of events occurred that led to me leaving Los Angeles and moving to Argentina. And this time, a series of events occurred that led to me making plans to move to Patagonia. Anyways there's increasing research about the drug-like negative effects of sugar on your mood and body, and things react differently with different people. I definitely have a negative reaction to sugar. I'm aware of this. It doesn't mean I won't be eating sugar on March 13th – I will! – but I hope that sugar (like alcohol) will become an increasingly rare addition to my diet.
I love not eating sugar. I also love eating sugar. So, that's that.
And aside from the dairy and sugar-free treats, 70% of my diet this month has been fruits and veggies, so that's awesome. I'm quite proud that I went a whole month without caving to medialunas or the apple crumble and dulce de leche they had the last day of Vipassana, or the other things that tempted me every day of the last month.
As I was saying at the beginning, my apologies for not having shared more of my journey with you up to this point. I'll be posting some photos and maybe a video tour of my current home here in BA, and hopefully filling you in on some of the best eateries and cafes (like the very photogenic Bardepan). My 33rd birthday is next week and a friend is flying down from San Francisco; we'll be revisiting all of my favorite things about BA before heading down to Patagonia.
Love and light and cheese!
Sugar + Honey + Frank
February 19, 2012
I've been refined sugar-free for six days now!
I'm feeling happier. I think there are two reasons: 1. Sugar causes mood swings and 2. I'm not hating on myself for sugar binging or not acting in integrity with what I want to be: healthy.
The cravings haven't been too bad. I did eat a lot of dried fruit and nuts the first few days, and I'm eating more dairy than I usually do (which is barely any). But I'm ok with that!
Yesterday I bought some freshly-made organic yogurt and honey from the El Galpon Farmer's Market in the Chacarita neighborhood of Buenos Aires (the only place I know of where you can get organic stuff in BA…). The yogurt comes in a big beautiful bottle and was delish with the super-dark grainy honey:
Yes, honey's technically a sugar but, unlike refined sugar, honey's not toxic to your system, doesn't cause dramatic blood sugar spikes (it may actually IMPROVE blood sugar control) and has an insane number of health benefits: it's anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral. You can use it to help heal burns and wounds, you can use it on your face to clear up acne (which I do occassionally). It can help with sore throats, allergies, even weight loss! As I'm reading more about honey the list is getting way too long (athletic performance, free radicals, cholesterol, immune system, anti-cancer…jeez!) so for more info check it here and here and here. (I'm pretty sure all of these are from raw honey, not the honey you by in a regular store, which is probably counterfeit honey from China.*)
Unfortunately, according to one of those honey sites, the answer to the question "How much honey can I eat every day?" is NOT "Eat as much as you can." Damn.
Even the Bible mentions honey, according to the editors of Wikipedia. Funny honey quote:
"While Jonathan was passing through the woods during the war against the Philistines, he found honey dripping on the ground; he plunged his spear into it, and ate enough to restore his lost strength. He was, however, sentenced to death because he ate honey on a day of abstinence".
So, this next part has nothing to do with sugar or honey, but… Well, actually, it does, in a roundabout way.
I was reading The Daily Love and came across this awesome blog by Mollie Angelheart: http://thedailylove.com/always-come-back-to-love/
Some of my favorite bits:
"All those paths lead to one answer "we are all one and our only job is to be unconditional love and remember".
It's all in the remembering… From broken and alone to whole and complete and part of the whole that is The Uni-verse…
I am broken when I forget and whole and complete when I remember."
Mollie's bio led me to google the documentary she produced, May I be Frank, a documentary "exploring the transformations possible through healthy eating and positive thinking":
Which looks AMAZING.
So, to tie this all together – I'm pretty sure Frank was eating way too much sugar. I haven't seen the entire movie yet, so maybe honey even played a roll in his transformation.
I think we'd all do a little better with less sugar, more honey!
*If you are getting your honey from Walmart, Target, Cost Plus, Sam's Club, Walgreen's, Rite Aid, CVS, or individual packets from Smucker's, McDonalds or KFC, there is a 70-100% chance that it's not actually honey, as defined by the food industry (containing pollen), and could be watered down with high fructose corn syrup. Trader Joe's honey, thank goodness, is legit.
30-Day No Sugar Challenge
February 13, 2012
I am addicted to sugar. I never felt truly addicted to smoking or alcohol or drugs – none of which I put in my body anymore – but sugar still kicks my ass. Anyone who's followed my blog these last few years has read about my trails and tribulations with sugar many, many times.
I am also allergic to sugar. It makes my system acidic, causing inflammation, which makes me break out (little tiny pimples all over my face) and contributes to flare-ups of psoriasis. I've had psoriasis consistently for almost two years now.
I've given up sugar a few times in the past, but never made it longer than a few weeks. I tried again at the beginning of 2012, but after 6 days (during which I felt amazing) I caved and went back to my cycle of sugar binging.
So this time, I've decided to place a wager. I've bet my friend China Brooks that I can go 30 days without eating refined sugar, starting today. She also is going sugar-free, and if either of us give into temptation during the 30 days, we have to Paypal the other $25. I don't generally make bets but I'm pretty sure I'm too proud and stubborn to lose one. 😉
Many people are unaware of the truth about sugar – how addictive it is, how toxic it is, and how prevalent it is in processed foods. I've experienced the physical, emotional and spiritual gains that come with giving it up. I'll be exploring these over the next 30 days as I share my experiences and struggles and, hopefully, win my bet.
An Argentine Thanksgiving Part II – Photos
November 29, 2011
A few days ago, my Thanksgiving wish came true and I celebrated my first expat Thanksgiving with my first Argentine steak at La Cabrera.
An Aussie friend joined me in giving thanks for our pretty awesome lives here in Buenos Aires. We started with a Fernet at Henri's in Palermo; Fernet is a signature Argentinian drink, a mix of a strange herbal liquor that vaguely resembles Jagermeister, mixed with Coca Cola. It tastes awful, like nasty cough syrup, when made poorly, but the ones we had at Henri's were refreshing. And strong.
Around 8pm we wandered over to La Cabrera – okay, actually, we ended up speed walking around Palermo trying to find the place, as neither of us had the address on us and, since La Cabrera is notoriously busy, we were trying to get there right at 8pm to be the first ones on the waiting list. There are two La Cabrera restaurants located on the same block, so we split our chances and put our names down at both to get into whichever could seat us first.
During our wait we had a glass of white wine at cute pizza and pasta joint up the street. This place, called Marcelina and Garcia, is yet another restaurant on the block owned by the same folks as the two La Cabreras. I think their great success is partially due to the tree of lollipops that is presented at the end of each meal:
After about a 45 minute wait we got our table at the larger La Cabrera, out on the sidewalk. It was a beautiful night, perfect for dining outside. After we were seated we noticed that they had more free stuff – champagne for waiting guests. If we'd only noticed sooner…
The service was the most attentive I've had in Argentina, where you usually have to raise your hand and wave like an eager child at school in order to get any attention. Our waiter's name tag said something along the lines of 'Ahuthaca'. The German women at a nearby table asked him what it meant, and he said translates to 'Freedom Dove.'
After perusing the menu (and being generally clueless as to what most of it was), Freedom Dove took our order – Ojo di Bife (Rib Eye Steak), Mollejas (Sweetbreads/Cow Thyroids), and Chorizo (Pork Sausage). I'd read that the portions were large at this place, and the entrees come with a bunch of sides, so it's advisable to order less than you think you need to and share the mountains of meat.
We also ordered a bottle of Malbec, of course; it tasted a bit tight, a bit young, but it mellowed as it aired out and tasted much better once we had some meat in our mouths.
We started with the Chorizo, which was tasty and moist and had a nice snap when you bit into it.
It was good, but my favorite meat of the night was the Mollejas, which tastes like a Pig and a Lobster had a delicious little baby:
Sweetbreads are actually the thyroid glands of cows – and these were some giant thyroids. We squeezed lemon on them and they tasted even better dipped in applesauce (one of our many side dishes).Despite it tasting like a baby lobster pig, with a seafoody texture and a lovely crispness on the outside, we couldn't finish all three of them. This was due, in part, to the many side dishes, and that we still had to eat a big slab of steak.
I can't even remember all of the side dishes we had – mashed potatoes, something with zucchini and egg, a salad with a raw egg hidden among the foliage, artichoke hearts, corn tabouleh, pureed pumpkin, and more.
Our Ojo de Bife steak was good, but after the many incredible steaks I've had in LA – at CUT, Morton's, Ruth's Chris, BOA, Mastro's, Lawry's…* – I wouldn't say it was the best I've ever had. Maybe for the price… I would be paying two to four times more for any of the steakhouses listed above.
It might also be because our first steak, though giant and beautiful, was greyly and disappointingly well done when we cut it open; we'd ordered medium-rare. Our replacement steak was much thinner and definitely gave off the vibe that the cooks were irritated with us. Well, that was my feeling, anyways (I hate sending food back but I refused to have my first Argentine Steak Experience be well-done).
About half way through our meal, I was telling my Aussie friend about the delicious – and free – killer garlic rolls they serve at a restaurant in Venice Beach that I used to work at, when the diner next to me turned to me and exclaimed, "Are you talking about C&O Trattoria???" And I burst out laughing. Celebrating Thanksgiving in Argentina (in a neighborhood called Palermo Hollywood, no less) and I end up sitting next to a couple from Venice Beach. Fueled by wine (and more wine – they insisted on buying another bottle to share with us) we became fast friends and ended up eating and talking until around one in the morning.
For dessert – and, per the usual here in Argentina, it was an amazing dessert – we ordered the Dulce de Leche Crepes with Strawberries and Vanilla Helado. The crepe was jam packed with melty dulce de leche (ie, caramel) and the outside of the crepes had an almost creme-brulee kind of shell to them. Sooooo amazingly, incredibly, stupidly good. I didn't even want the free lollypop at the end.
I think we paid around 250 pesos each; $62, including wine and tip. I know inflation in Argentina has gone up somewhere around 60%+ in the past few years (or more, since the Argentine government has price fixed Big Macs so they can't be measured against other countries), but I'm still pretty sure you couldn't get a meal like this in LA for $62.
So, despite being a bit disappointed by my first Argentine Steak, overall it was a fantastic Thankgiving – filled with new friends and Malbec and dulce de leche and pig-lobster babies.
*Wow. Reviewing this list of amazing steakhouses in LA that I've eaten at makes me look like a total foodie whore. Which I am. No wonder I have credit card debt…
Buenos Aires Observations
November 15, 2011
The jacarandas are blooming here – spurts of vibrant purple; squishy flowers blanketing the sidewalks. Makes me feel at home, like I'm back in LA. A strange LA.
The school uniform for some children is a white knee-length coat. This makes them look like little mad scientists.
When you order a cup of coffee, it comes with a shot of sparkling water and a little cookie (or some kind of candy, candied orange peel, or chocolate). It's like snack time.
A young fit-looking dog walker passed by the window of my favorite cafe. She had 14 dogs leashed to her. Big dogs – Burmese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Black Labs. A moving mass of fur.
Whenever you leave an apartment building here, you have to have a key to unlock the front doors to get out. Seems dangerous to me.
Walking along residential streets you often come across small booths with windows, about the size of a porta potty. Homeowners on the block hire guards to man these booths and watch over their property. The guards just sit in the booths all day. But at night, the booths are empty…
Breakfast here is coffee and bread – normally a couple of medialunas, mini croissants. Or a combo: today my combo breakfast came with a selection of muffin, pastry, and toast. I had a banana muffin, a chocolate croissant, and two slices of perfectly toasted freshly baked bread, with sour tangy cream cheese and some kind of fruit preserve that I can't quite make out – passionfruit? It almost tastes like sweet sun-dried tomatoes…
The Argentine diet seems to consist of meat, pastries, and dulce de leche. Yet only 18% are obese, and 50% are overweight – much less than in the US. Is it smaller portions? Periodic skipping of meals? More walking and use of public transportation?
You can sit in a cafe for hours without being bothered, or talked to, or looked at, by a waiter. For them to come over, you must flag them down. Which can be nice, or can be annoying, depending on how much of a hurry you're in.
Burrata, Beignets & Biscuits – Road Trip: Boulder, CO Part III
September 5, 2011
Though I generally try to eat healthy, wholesome, nourishing foods, most of you know that I am a big-time foodie. Happily, so was my CouchSurfing host in Boulder.
Steve's favorite place in town is called Pizzeria Locale. I'd say it rivals Mozza in LA. We got a thin-crusted, chewy pizza with burrata, pecorino, and squash blossoms, a beet salad, and butterscotch budino (pudding). Amazingly delicious, all of it.
Sunday morning brunched at Lucille's, where they've been serving up Creole food in Boulder for over 30 years. We started with some delicious Bignets, a New Orleans style donut pastry that's fluffy and doused in powdered sugar. I got the pralines french toast, which was amazing. Steve's biscuit looked more like corn bread than a biscuit, and it was tall, dense, moist, puffy and crispy along the top. The local strawberry rhubarb preserves were tangy tasty.
Next time you're in Boulder, check these spots out!
Money still influences US food guidelines
March 7, 2011
"I had hoped that the USDA would be able to give Americans the clear advice about diet that they deserve," says Dr. Walter Willett, Fredrick John Stare Professor of Epidemiology and Nutrition, and chair of the Dept. of Nutrition at Harvard School of Public Health. "However, the continued failure to highlight the need to cut back on red meat and limit most dairy products suggests that 'Big Beef' and 'Big Dairy' retain their strong influence within this department. Might it be time for the USDA to recuse itself because of conflicts of interest and get out of the business of dietary advice?"
Dr. Walter Willet of Harvard on the new US Dietary Guidlines.
Check out our iPhone app Livifi for the TRUTH on what to eat, and a way to make that knowledge into a habit!
Pumpkin Loving in LA
September 17, 2010
I just decided: I'm adding Pumpkins to my list of favorite foods.
I think part of the Pumpkin appeal is the seasonality. I know fall is here in So Cal when Starbucks brings back the Pumpkin Spice Latte and IHOP starts flipping Pumpkin Pancakes. If summer has to end, at least I get a consolation prize.
This is my list and opinions of various Pumpkin delights found in the LA area. If you know about some Pumpkin deliciousness that I haven't mentioned here, let me know where to find it in the comments section and, in the name of research, I will happily go sample it!
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A-
I get it with soy. Nommy creamy goodness. Makes the California autumn seem like autumn. Sometimes, I feel like it could be a little more pumpkinny…I haven't tried asking for extra pumpkin syrup though. I'm a little afraid that might just make it disgusting.
Pumpkin Scone: A
Not only is this scone moist (for a scone), with good pumpkin flavor, but the icing is perfect. Sweet enough, but not sickeningly so.
Pumpkin Bread: A
Moist, pumpkiny, delish. Pumpkin seeds on top.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin: B+: Incredibly moist. A bit too much with the cream cheese though…I didn't finish it.
Dominick's in WeHo:
Pumpkin Rye Whiskey Cocktail: A+
This drink is amazing. A friend heard rumor of it last year, so we stopped in and asked our server about it. He reacted with: "How did you know about the Pumpkin Cocktail???" Apparently he'd just invented it a few days earlier. Word travels fast…anyways, it's got Pumpkin puree, rye whiskey, nutmeg, and a dollop of whipped cream. I tried to re-create it but it wasn't quite the same…I might be missing an ingredient or two. I'm not sure when or if they're offering it this year, but I intend to find out.
Pumpkin Pie Yogurt: A
This stuff is gooood. Extra points for being able to serve yourself the exact amount you want. I'm more of a toppings girl so I get a little bit of yogurt and then (on this flavor) heap on some cheesecake cubes and graham cracker dust. It's magical.
Bennett's Ice Cream at the Farmers Market(Grove)
Pumpkin Ice Cream: A+
This place has been churning out good old fashioned ice cream since before you were born. They know what they're doing. Trust. Serious creamy cinnamony goodness.
Trader Joe's:
Pumpkin Pancake Mix:A
Tested this with a friend, and even though we used rice milk instead of regular milk, they came out delish! Fluffy, pumpkiny, filling. It was made even more amazing by putting Pumpkin Maple Butter on top (see below). I want to try waffles.
Whole Foods
Pumpkin Maple Butter: A
Make ANYTHING Pumpkin flavored with this topping! So far I've only spread it on Pumpkin Pancakes, though the jar instructs you to heat it up and drizzle it over ice cream. Um, do I really need to be pouring butter on my ice cream? It's pretty sweet and has a baby food consistency but it definitely accentuate the Pumpkin flavor of our flapjacks.
Urth Cafe
Pumpkin Pie: A+
One of the best Pumpkin Pies I've ever had. It's fluffy – not as dense as normal Pumpkin Pie – and the graham crust is extra thick and has ginger in it. Nom! Get a scoop of their amazing vanilla bean ice cream and you're in comfort food heaven.
The Point
Kabocha Squash Soup: A
It's the Japanese equivalent of Pumpkin, so I'll include it. Plus they sprinkle Pumpkin seeds on top. This place is near my work and this soup is my favorite choice for lunch. It's nice and thick (not watery) and has caramelized onions, carrots and garlic pureed into it too. NOM!
For future research, I still need to sample the Pumpkin Smoothies at Jamba Juice and Earthbar.
And, I need to hunt for the best of one of my ABSOLUTE favorite Pumpkin dishes: Pumpkin Tortellini with a butter sage sauce. I used to LOVE it a Allegria on PCH in Malibu, but they have since closed. I'm pretty sure I've had some bomb-ass Pumpkin Tortellini at Osteria Mozza (my favorite restaurant in LA), but I can't recall if it was Pumpkin or Butternut Squash…
Speaking of Butternut Squash (which I also love love love), there's restaurant downtown called Zucca (Italian for … guess what??) that I really must go to. But, um…I just checked online and it looks like their dishes are all made with Butternut Squash, not Pumpkin. What's up with that?
Tomorrow night I'll be testing out recipes for Pumpkin Gnocchi and Pumpkin Martinis with the Pumpkin Pancake friend. If the recipes pass our vigorous taste testing, I'll post them!
Happy Pumpkin loving!


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THE PLAY by Elle Kennedy There are many talented authors out there but for me Elle Kennedy is one ofRead More
Category: book review
FAKER by Sarah Smith I had high hopes for FAKER. Maybe too high – I don't know. This started outRead More
THE GUY IN THE MIDDLE by Kate Stewart THE GUY ON THE RIGHT was a total winner but I'm notRead More
DOWN TOO DEEP by J. Daniels Ever since reading Four Letter Word I wanted to know Nate's story. A widowerRead More
HEIDI'S GUIDE TO FOUR LETTER WORDS by Andi Arndt and Tara Sivec I'm in love with this author duo! AndiRead More
ARCHANGEL'S WAR by Nalini Singh This is the 12th installment in this series and it's still going strong. Can youRead More
THE ASSIST I'm such a sucker for this type of romance novels. I love the banter and humor, being transportedRead More
WRAPPED UP IN YOU by Jill Shalvis When you finish a difficult book it's always good to know where youRead More
BEARD WITH ME by Penny Reid Who hasn't been intrigued and fascinated by the most enigmatic Winston brother? Well, finallyRead More
WELL MET by Jen DeLuca Not gonna lie, the cute cover was what made me pick this one up. That'sRead More


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Search results
Talking to kids about violence in the media they consume – television, movies, video games, music and the Internet – can help them put media violence into perspective and perhaps diffuse some of its power.
Images of men and women in the media are often based on stereotypical roles of males and females in our society. Because stereotyping can affect how children feel about themselves and how they relate to others, it's important that they learn to recognize and understand gender stereotypes in different media.
A tip sheet for parents on how to manage music in the home.
Thinking critically
There are five key ideas that help kids think critically about media. You can start to make your kids aware of these concepts almost as soon as they start asking you questions!
Talk Back! How to Take Action on Media Issues gives you the tools to talk back to media companies.


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Subscribe To Gears of War Strategy Game Screenshots Leaked? Updates
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The shooter series Gears of War may be making a foray into the strategy genre. A set of early screenshots, supposedly from a game called Gears of War: Tactics, hit the Internet on Thursday.
VGLeaks says that Tactics lets players command a squad of four COG soldiers in battle. The player uses Kinect to direct the forces. The game was supposedly for Xbox 360 at the start but now is being prepared for the next Xbox.
The screenshots are very low quality. VGLeaks says that they're from the alpha version of the game or earlier. You can make out a few possible gameplay details from the shots, though. One of the unit icons appears to show long-time Gears character Baird. One screenshot depicts the player using the Hammer of Dawn.
Since finishing the original Gears trilogy, Epic Games has been exploring new directions for the series. They were developing a spin-off called Gears of War: Exile but cancelled the project before it was even announced. Now, along with subsidiary People Can Fly, they're creating a prequel shooter called Gears of War: Judgment.
Whether the company would be willing to explore a new genre remains to be seen, though. The Gears fan base is made up of gamers who enjoy shooters. Would they flock to a strategy game with Kinect controls? Or would it just feel like Epic is cashing in on the Gears name?
We'll have to wait and see if anything comes of this alleged project. Epic, in the meantime, isn't saying anything.
"We don't comment on speculation or rumors," an Epic spokesperson told Gaming Blend this morning. A spokesperson from Microsoft declined to comment as well.
A few sample screenshots are below. You can find the rest at VG Leaks.


text: Jean and I are finally home. I wanted to let you know that we were 110 per cent satisfied with every aspect our trip. The guides and drivers were all wonderful and very caring of our well being. Our flight was 6 hours late arriving in Rome and our train was late arriving in Venice and yet they were there waiting for us. Thank you so much for not letting us fly on the day of our cruise departure. If we had we would have missed the ship. You guys are true professionals just as Jessie and King have told us and we would highly recommend you to anyone traveling to Italy that wants a first class experience. Sincerely, John & Jean


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Video: Missy Elliot & Timbaland Talk Posthumous Aaliyah Album With Angie Martinez
So we've all heard the news about a posthumous Aaliyah album that's being executively produced by Drake and his producer 40. The fact that Drizzy never met the singer, let alone worked with her, has conjured up a lot of skepticism regarding why he'd be commanding the production to begin with. A couple minutes into Angie Martinez's recent interview with Missy Elliot and Timbaland – who we know had an extremely close relationship with Aaliyah – Angie demanded from the two:
Give me the official Missy and Timbaland stance on this Aaliyah project.
From the sound of it, seems as if this whole thing might not even be going down at all, at least not to their knowledge. Check the dialogue above, and let us know your thoughts on the situation.
By: Alana
Jay-Z Interview with Angie Martinez Talks Death of Autotune
Jay-Z talks about Death of Autotune with Angie Martinez.
Read more


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Boil eggs and cool down and peel of their shells.
Now in a pan add oil and then put garlic paste.
After that add tomato puree, red pepper paste, cumin, black pepper, green chili paste, salt and stir.
Add eggs, 2 cups water and cook it till gravy gets thickened.
In the end add tamarind paste in it and seamier.
When oil gets separated dish out it than garnish it with chopped coriander and serve it.
Pleasebe judicious and courteous in selecting your words.
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