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The Freemind Team proudly consists of 100% born and raised Washingtonians. That's over 160 years of combined Seattle experiences! Here's a list of some of our favorite things to do in Seattle and the surrounding area:
Take the Ferry from Seattle to Bremerton or Bainbridge Island: You can walk around the sundeck and enjoy 360-degree views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the Olympic & Cascade mountains. Ferries are a quintessential symbol of Western Washington. Fun fact: The Washington State Ferry system is the largest in the United States and was designed to be temporary until the state could build a system of bridges to transport people to the peninsula- over 60 years later and no bridges, but I'm not complaining!
Take your dog to the Marymoor off-leash Dog Park: Over on the Eastside we are fortunate to have a world class dog park covering 4 acres and boasting 5 river access points. The Marymoor dog park in Redmond is so nice it's fun to go even if you don't have a dog!
- Jessica, born in Snoqualmie, WA
Eat and shop my way through Pike Place Market and wander for a few hours. It can get crowded, but you'll soon discover so many amazing little shops, street performers, flowers and incredible food. Pike Place is also where you will find the original Starbucks! Eat your way from mini donuts to piroshky to hum bao and samples of fresh local fruit. If you need a rest, find one of the many bars, breweries, or wine tasting rooms to grab a drink!
- Victoria, born in Bellevue, WA
Camping and hiking at Dash Point State Park: it's tough to find good campgrounds in the Seattle/Tacoma area and Dash Point is one I take my family to often. They've got easy trails and hardcore trails, the beach is right there and there's more than enough camp pads plus it's still close to town and since we camp with our little ones in the event we absolutely NEED to go somewhere were not far.
Exploring Downtown Tacoma's creative scene: I just went to an amazing event put on by Hall of Fame vintage where a ton of Tacoma makers and creatives were showcasing their work. The creative scene in Tacoma is one of the best I've been in around the country. It's amazing how much stuff is going on down there from art, to music, to fashion, film, small businesses, breweries and it's all accessible and not as pretentious as other places. It's like a little bit of Brooklyn a little bit of Portland and a little bit of Oakland all in one.
- Quincy, born in Tacoma, WA


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Fortune's Favoured: Revenge of the Revenge of the Game
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Messages in Fortune's Favoured: Revenge of the Revenge of the Game
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Cheshire Cad
1178 Posts
Buying a bit of time?
Tristan didn't bother to stop the smile creeping onto his face as the little one began talking the groups ears off. He'd always like gnomes. Unpredictable at best, maddening at worst, they were almost as good at mischief as halfling's were, and seemed to have twice the fun at it. And mischief was something Tristan always enjoyed.
'House Merinuk? Is our reputation growing that fast? I wonder....' Tristan was suspicious by nature, but couldn't deny his curiosity. He badly wanted to know what was going on that they needed such people as the Favored were reported to be. Sure things might go wrong. But they might go very right. You never knew until you rolled the dice. And until he smelled con, there was no reason not to go along, right? As long as the could make sure the others would keep their composure.
Waiting for any conversation to die down, he spoke with s smirk. "Well met Gymenzious! Would you mind giving us a bit of time to collect ourselves?"
(((OOC: Tristan's statement will come after any conversations the others wish to have with the pair. He's hoping to have a small and quick conference with the group.)))
Posted on 2017-11-22 at 17:37:28.
Ma' Nozzle
661 Posts
The morning arrived with its usual portents - a headache, a pain in an unexpected place, and a rumble of the stomach. Just as his eyes were beginning to open, Argos burst through the door as if he owned the place.
"Mornin' Heroes!"
Malachi squinted against the painful words but couldn't block out the man's spirited (and long-winded) hello.
"Brought you a pick-me-up. You've got callers waitin' downstairs. Came in a few hours back 'fore sun-up, some stuffy folk from the capital. Told 'im you earned y'er rest, but the one fella seemed real eager to talk to ya'. Say, did one of you let a bunch of goats in last night?"
"Argie! Next time knock you old bugger! Ask Cal about the goats, she's the one who's got an obsession."
Malachi Williams, now recognized universally in Schell as the Argent Blade, rolled out of bed and into his daytime attire. No more the black and silver getup he wore on the mission, today felt like a good day to dress down. He felt as rumpled as the clothes, but the tray by the door went a long way toward ironing him out.
The tavern of the Dragon was exactly like he didn't remember it. Tables flipped, the raucousness of the previous night revealed but without explanation. A goat bleated somewhere beneath the floor, underlining Argie's earlier query. Breakfast was another beer, annoyment, and sausages.
Two men lay in wait for the Favored when they arrived downstairs. Mal had never cared for this kind of comedy act - a gruff straight man and a little excitable fellow telling all the jokes. He eyed them carefully between bites of sausage and draughts of beer. They seemed to have showed up much too soon to have come searching for them specifically, yet here they were, given enough description to recognize the group on sight. Nonetheless, Gym seemed to be telling the truth and was even perhaps a little starstruck. Karl, on the other hand, was trying his best to finish his bread and didn't seem interested in much else.
Snatching one of the letters from Gym's hand, Mal couldn't help thinking something about the situation seemed dicey. Still, this could be the chance to take the little spark of fame he had ignited in Schell and turn it into a blaze of glory. The myth of Fortune's Favored would start not in this little town, but in... was it Cordova? He couldn't quite remember where he had seen the name of House Merinuk before. Nonetheless! Fame seemed aimed at him like the point of an arrow.
He righted a table and pulled up a chair.
"Okay Gymmy, we're in."
said The Argent Blade, utterly failing to consult his companions.
"Say, d'you want me to sign one of those letters for you? You know, as a memento."
Tristan spoke from behind him in that voice that always turned Mal's mood into black squiggles.
"Well met Gymenzious! Would you mind giving us a bit of time to collect ourselves?"
Malachi asked, turning to catch Tristan with a scowl.
Posted on 2017-11-23 at 23:34:53.
Edited on 2017-11-24 at 00:11:32 by Schnozzle
502 Posts
Nausea is good for the soul.
She dreamt of the keep. Bodies strewn about haphazardly. The touch of the arcane buzzing in the tepid silence of lifelessness. Men scorched beyond recognition, or showcased in a perfect crystalline facsimile. Her blood had run as cold as the stone walls that led ever downwards. Though she had not lost her bravery, her instinct was heavily leaning towards escape. A chance encounter with a giant, and a laughable exchange with mere bandits did not a hero's handful make. Just because they could fool a town full of dirt farmers did not mean any battery of true villainy would be impressed. Though she followed the others in stride, she kept the exit on her mind always.
Jaron. Bandit lord. Master of the 'death glare'. His violet eyes bore a lasting image in the young thief's mind. With eagle like precision she honed in on them. They held her in their thrall for moments that traced an eternity. Before they were gone, glazed over like granite. An irony of the highest order, a mirror to the glare of the medusa. And what was this invader who seemed to single-handedly defeat a fortress full of bandits. Who walked up to the man with the glare of death and laughed? A tall slinking shadow, shifting in her sight, as though perpetually in motion. And his face... the most terrifying of all.
A goat! The face of goat!
"Mornin' Heroes!"
Calopee started from her disturbed slumber, shaking the mortifying images from her head, which only aided in spinning the room about this way and that. One ought not drink their weight in poison. That should be a rule, she surmised. She fussed over her newly found cloak, spoils from their latest sojourn to the bandit lord's keep. Brilliantly crafted by elven hands, and gifted with subtle enchantments. It was not meant to serve as a blanket, but in her drunken state, she had used it as a comforter, though alas, it did not serve as a dream catcher.
"Oh...did one of you let a bunch of goats in last night?"
The young halfling shuddered at the merest mention of the beasts. The memory of the tall man with the superimposed face of a goat jumped back into her mind. "I hate goats..." she muttered to herself.
"Argie! Next time knock you old bugger! Ask Cal about the goats, she's the one who's got an obsession." Blurted Malachi.
Calopee's immediate response was to grab a book that had been loosed from a shelf the night before, and toss it clean at Mal's fat head. The Argent Blade caught the assault out of the corner of his eye and dodged the blundering book, sneering all the while as it crashed into the wall behind him. Stupid ale! Blasted reflexes!
Her head had developed it's very own pulse, that seemed to be more lively than the one in her chest ever could be. She crawled over to the tray of ales and began to embalm herself with the hair of the dog that bit her, all the while doing a soft inventory of things. She hadn't made the egregious error of sleeping in her chain, and it was slumped over in the corner with her backpack. Her stones were happily fastened to her side as always. Everything seemed in order.
The ale was working its way into the churning maelstrom that was her belly on the morning after, slowly plying it's trade to her groaning mind ache. Every heavy handled footfall down the stairs to the common room was far below the graceful strides one might expect from a child like form such as hers. Her face unwittingly flushed at the sound of goats braying in the floorboards. If the gods were kind she'd never have to see the likes of one again. Alas, she feared she may continue to be one "Whom Gods Annoy!"
Ever the opportunist, the little thief took in the newest additions to the establishment. Her assessment was more cold and calculating than would do with admitting. The big man was a major threat physically, to be sure. Armed with the natural weaponry allotted to career soldier, or seasoned guard. The crossbow, a weapon that was readily usable by the inexperienced, and extremely effective in the hands of the inveterate. Many swordsmen were so prided in their martial artistry that they would rebuke the duality of a ranged option. Some would call it cowardly. Typically the tactical, the trained, and the bought would resolve to have as many tools in their belt as necessary. Even still, her eyes locked in on the softest place on that shaven skull, tracing the points in the room that might act as a ricochet point should they be face to face and fighting.
His threat was simple, however, whereas the gnome was a trifling quarry. He was pretty, she would not deny. A little blush couldn't help but grace her freckled cheeks when he made mention of her fairness. Quite the charmer, if not for his irritating chatter. Gnomes were known for two things. Their trickery, and arcane profinity. She couldn't get a sense of the silver haired affluent. There was danger in his seeming absence of danger. She looked to Sehanine for guidance, to see what the violet eyed witch might betray upon her assessment.
"Where was I...I'm Gymenzi-no I've said that. He's Kar- Oh the letters! Karl please hand me the satchel."
Calopee read over the letter, running her finger over the seal of House Merinuk. "Okay Gymmy, we're in." said The Argent Blade, utterly failing to consult his companions. "Say, d'you want me to sign one of those letters for you? You know, as a memento."
Brazen fool! Calopee roiled, wishing her glare to be as violent as the bandit lord Jaron, pre shattered statuette. Of course he'd think to speak for us all!
She was about to redirect when Tristan saved face. "Well met Gymenzious! Would you mind giving us a bit of time to collect ourselves?"
"What?" Malachi barked at Tristan.
"This isn't Mal and the Favoured!" Calopee spat back in a whisper, though likely not as subtle as intended, "You don't speak for me Silvertip."(a blatant bastardization of Argent Blade)
***Though it was very early after a long night of celebration, the truth was that this seemed to be the best prospect for work in the region. It ALSO seemed highly convenient, and she had no trust regarding "Tiny" and his handler. Calopee would await a general consensus, but wouldn't necessarily mind working jobs in Cordova with a crew.***
Posted on 2017-11-25 at 19:09:11.
Edited on 2017-12-16 at 08:00:28 by Philosopher
RDI Fixture
1280 Posts
What games may come
The swirling magic of the nocturnal fey trance set in as Sehanine retired, retracing the many lifetimes her own years had spanned. Memories overlayed memories, grounding the faery to the core of who she was. Mingled among were they events of the day past. All should have flowed past, to join the course of the river that was her long life. Yet one thing remained a moment longer, refusing to move on.
Glowing violet eyes turned grey, then as stone shattered. Beyond the terran dust, a lithe figure robed in darkness. For a moment there, then gone. Like the memories, fleeting and flowing...
It shouldn't have haunted her, but it did. Why had such a creature been sent to claim the bounty on a mere bandit? Such humble prey should have been beneath any who held that kind of power. What threads knotted beyond where she could see?
None of this should have mattered to her. Schell, Jaron, even the Favored were fleeting moments that would fade over the passage of centuries. Such should be little more than amusment, barely worth notice. Yet, Sehanine found that all this did matter, and that terrified her more than any shadow assassin ever could.
The hours of reverie flowed by until the light of dawn stirred her back into the world of the living. Still, she remained in the bed, letting the gravity of her nocturnal revelations wash over. Change and the tide of chaos had long been her dearest friends, but even she had been caught in their web in the end.
Argos' booming voice ripped the faery from her melancholic musings, a gift for which she was beyond grateful. In a century or two she might even remember him, a gift he should be incredibly honored by. Wars had been fought for less, and here she was ready to offer it to the man-bear for a mere distraction. HE SHOULD BE GROVELING! The utter lack of such prostrations did not escape Sehanine's notice. Such a slight would require a grave punishment. Her imagination jumped in response pulling together one horrific torture after another. Blistering oozing boils had a rather nice ring to it, perhaps a new boil might sprout up every time the buffoon bellowed. Or she could just drive him mad. Such a thing took time, but her kind were highly proficient in the provocations of insanity. Such would be a deliriously pleasant diversion from all her grave concerns. The thought brought a genuine smile to her lips.
"Oh... did one of you let in a bunch of goats last night?"
At the mention of the marauding goats Sehanine looked over to the deliciously deviant Calopee and winked. "I tend to steer clear of the goat stench. Perhaps it was the darling Maud... were you with her Tristan?"
Verbal daggers were improving her mood significantly. It might even turn out to be a good day. Still, the mention of visitors from the capital was somewhat sobering. They would need to be presentable. Snapping her fingers Sehanine sent fey magic to work. Fueled with the power of lemon cleaners, the charm scrubbed the Favored clean polishing away the previous days dirt. Hair was combed and armor was polished. Soon the five appeared to be the mighty heroes they claimed to be, and if the lemon scent lingered about shifty Tristan just a bit longer then all the better.
In the tavern they were greeted by the frenetic gnome Gymenzious and his taciturn partner, Karl the giant. The armored man might prove difficult if conflict arose, but he was likely the more straightforward of the two to deal with. It was the gnome that drew her attention. The diminutive creatures were sly and for a mortal race possessed remarkable arcane talents. In general Sehanine was rather fond of the mischievous folk, but this one would need to be watched closely until she had a better sense of his motives and his talents. Calopee, it seemed, had similar concerns. The halfling never ceased to impress her. Sehanine kept her arcane senses tight as the gnome performed his soliloquy, all the while maintaining the relaxed composure all had come to expect of her.
The thought of infiltrating an important merchant house intrigued her greatly. She could cause boundless heaps of trouble there, enough to entertain her for a significant amount of time. Still, there were the yipping gnome's motives and the details of the actual job to consider. Gym darling had let something slip, a bit of his plans cut off before the full revelation. It might be nothing more than economic gains, but things were rarely so simple. He would have to be watched indeed.
A bit of lovely acid roiled up as Malachi the Malignant stuffed his foot down his throat. Sehanine had no issues with the letting the man think he was in charge. If he wanted to play leader he could enjoy the bright red target that came with the job. She vastly preferred manipulation, and it seemed Mal was more than willing to oblige. Of course the rest of the party weren't so pleased with the man speaking for them. Truth be told it would likely have sent her into a harpy rage on another day, but the prospect of this new job pleased her too much to ignite her ire. In the end they would likely agree to take on House Merinuk's sensitive matter, even if just for the promise of a change of scenery.
So Sehanine waited, and let them argue out toward the inevitable conclusion. It really was the best course of action. She noted a tinge of regret at not being able to fulfill her bloody vendetta against Argos. Perhaps another day, time was not a resource she lacked.
((OOC: Cast Prestidigitation))
Posted on 2017-11-26 at 18:51:28.
RDI Fixture +1
1546 Posts
Master Caiste's words of wisdom echoed through his thoughts once again as he wrote in his journal, summarizing the past ten days or so that he and the Fortune's Favored passed in Schell.
"It is a bit cliché Relos, but duty, and honor in your word are of course precious virtues that you cannot treat with carte blanche. If people know you as an individual who breaks their word, their code, well then how can you get anywhere in life on the road? A wandering clergyman of Gian is seen as a good omen amongst the farmers and townsfolk that dwell in the villages you will be traveling to, so do well by them and give them nothing but a spark of hope in their faith toward Gian and your word to help those who need it."
Master Caiste, your words are pertinent for any situation I find myself in. Blessed you and your seemingly infinite wisdom.
Relos spoke quietly to himself as he continued writing. He sat at a table in the common room of The Bearded Dragon, as always rising early for prayers at dawn but also secretly hoping to be one of the first at the breakfast table for the freshest pickings. His time here at the Dragon has seen himself grow quite fond of Argos' baked breads and his penchant for serving ale with the morning meal. But the most important thing to Relos has been his morning time to himself. Up just before dawn, quietly dress and clean up, and then tip toe down stairs around whatever mess may be strewn about the bar from what most likely was a celebration of some kind the night prior.
This morning was one such time, the sun's rays illuminating his writing as he sipped an ale and listened to the quiet bleating of a goat somewhere apparently below the floor boards. Tomas slumbered from their festivities and an odd looking duo sat across the tavern from him. He intentionally chose a secluded spot for himself as once the rest of the group rose who knows what mischief and mayhem they may raise, leaving him with no peace until the next morning come.
,training of the villagers seems to be progressing, Malachi is a good person to have help show them the way of sword and spear. We've routed a few small goblin menaces from the neighboring wilds and even put some thieves and murderers to the gallows. As we've all quickly learned, justice on the frontier is harsh and swift. If you make a living praying off of the livelihood of innocence, then you shall expect retribution sooner or later. The last few days' events have me troubled though, an entire fortress wiped out by what seemed to be one man. A sorcerous battle between mages and a man turned to stone? I don't like this, and whatever trouble is brewing is far above Tomas's and his men's heads. Pray to Gian and Cutemp that whatever trouble that is, stays out of Schell,.
Relos lifted his holy symbol, a silvered circlet engraved with a negative space outline of a mighty tree, and gave it a kiss as he blessed his meal and morning.
Soon the others joined him downstairs, all five of them given word from Argos that men have paid them a visit and wanted to speak with them. He looked at the odd pair of the massive man and the gnome dressed in his city attire and it was pretty obvious to put two and two together.
They approached and spoke their part on how they ventured to find the Fortune's Favored, and how the group was a great match for what they needed. Gymenzious' fast words and fast hands was making Relos' head spin, the little man was a blur of jumbled thoughts and seemed to be keeping three conversations going all at once. Before he knew it, he was done and now the group stood with a choice to make. Almost like a scripted play Malachi, Calopee, Tristan, and Sehanine all began to go tit for tat back and forth with one another. Words and looks were traded as Relos just smiled, his odd ball group of compatriots such a far cry from the sort of folk he imagined himself traveling with when he was younger. But he loved them all none the less as they've grown together as not only just an adventuring group, but as friends also. At least in Relos' eyes they have, and he hoped they felt the same.
He spoke up after everyone either threw their thoughts forward or silently abstained.
Thank you Gymenzious, I think we may be up for something like this, but of course first we must discuss together. I know there is no lack of work around the lands of Schell but it is much safer here than a fortnight ago. We quite possibly may be available.
He turned towards the group and stepped back, taking his turn to read one of the letters that the group was handed. Lowering his voice and speaking to his companions, with one hand on the paper and the other reaching for his ale mug, he levied a question at them all.
So, what do you all think? This House Merinuk ring a bell to anyone? To be honest I haven't been to any town with more than a 2 story ale house and a wall to keep it safe. Kept to the country roads usually. But anyways, do you think the people of Schell are safe enough to leave on their own? We gave word to protect and help, I would feel awful leaving them pre maturely.
(I imagine his holy symbol as kinda like the tree of gondor. awesome looking but no leaves lol )
Posted on 2017-11-26 at 21:44:57.
Edited on 2017-11-26 at 21:49:15 by Jozan1
Cheshire Cad
1178 Posts
Silvertip indeed.....
It took Tristan half a moment to wipe the smirk off his face. Silvertip, eh? Oh that was going to stick, one way or another. Tristan would see to it.
He smiled and continued his line of thought one Mal and Calopee finished their brief squabble. He gave the gnome his best winning smile. "If we are to go on such a journey as this, we'll need time to pack up, say farewell, what have you. Surely you wouldn't begrudge us that,would you? We shan't be long anyway."
Once they had a bit of privacy Tristan spoke to the group. He began with a quick aside to the paladin. "Relos, I do believe that Schell is as safe as she'll ever be, unless you fancy taking up residence here. With the bandits gone, and their slayer flown the coop in such a... decisive manner, there's little left for us to do. The town's fate must now rest in the people's hands, and the hand of whichever gods they pray too." An honest enough assessment, hopefully not laid on too thick. Tristan had absolutely no intention of sticking around here forever. And jobs didn't just land in your lap like this. Except for that giant.....
He spoke again, this time to Mal. "You,
may have some skill in battle, but you will get us all killed if you continue to act so recklessly. One of us does not get to commit all the rest to a venture. Whether we march towards fortune or folly, it must not be a forced one." He tilted his head, addressing the group as a whole. "Which brings me to the real point, something that has just become urgent. We need among us a leader, to speak to those who would hire us, to bargain, accept, and reject on our behalf. Or, failing that, at least a spokesman to get us through until such things can be decided. Who among us is best suited to dealing with a noble house?"
Tristan wouldn't mind speaking for the group, though he did not relish the idea of the spotlight that would come with actually leading. Relos would be good short-term, but problematic in the long-run. Mal, annoying as he was, would be ideal, if he could roll his ego back. Sehanine was bewitching, but too obviously suspicious, though Tristan would admit to his bias there. And Calopee was a joy, but he had a hard time imagining her at the head of the favored. Still, he waited for the others' opinions, to see what they'd say before giving his own.
(((OOC:Quick and dirty planning is apparently the only way we do things here. Tristan's looking for a quick decision that will help us present a united front going into the next mission. It need not be him, and it need not be set in stone.)))
Posted on 2017-11-30 at 00:56:22.
Edited on 2017-12-01 at 00:19:56 by Chessicfayth
RDI Staff
6191 Posts
Dawn, The Bearded Dragon, Schell
"Okay Gymmy, we're in. Say, d'you want me to sign one of those letters for you? You know, as a memento."
Malachi's ever-present ego and glory seeking attitude were well known to the Favoured, but new to Gymenzious, and he took the Argent Blade's quick affirmation as if it was from the whole of the group. His eyes had an excited glimmer to them as a wide grin split his diminutive face.
"Oh excellent, excellent, EXCELLENT!"
Gym turned to each of the Favoured in turn, his smiling face oblivious to their dismayed glances as they realised Malachi had essentially volunteered their services.
"Master Merinuk must be notified immediately, I will send word at once...Karl! Send word at once!"
Karl looked over his shoulder reluctantly before rising with a sigh and making his way out of the Dragon. Gymenzious hardly spared him a glance as he continued.
"We will make way as soon as you're prepared. Oh glorious, glorious, glorious day."
The gnome was pacing before the group, still oblivious towards the group's objections to Malachi's agreement.
"Oh I will be commended quite highly for this. Perhaps elevated to my own house. House Oslatheran. GRAND House Oslatheran."
Gym continued speaking seemingly to himself as he walked about the inn. His mutterings continued as he strode out the front door, and for a brief moment there was silence that felt almost unnatural. Their respite was brief however as Argos soon bustled in, his massive frame barely squeezing through the doorway, a panicked bleating goat beneath one of his massive arms.
"Weird little fella', that one."
He gestured over his shoulder to with his free arm.
"Take it y'er takin' up his offer? Off to the capital are ya'?"
(OOC: I assume you're all off for the capital based on the Q&A, if you want to backpost any dealings in Schell feel free.)
Mid-morning, The outskirts of Schell, Schell
Despite their festivities the night before, what seemed like the entirety of the town assembled to see their "heroes" off. Even Tomas had managed to rouse himself, his hungover eyes squinting in the bright sun as he thanked the group for their help. His militia stood with him, their newfound confidence obvious to anyone that looked. Not the most formidable garrison in the land but the Favoured could leave assured that Schell was far safer than when they'd arrived.
Gymenzious had procured a pair of lavish carriages, well appointed for the short trip north to the bay, and his goatee'd face popped into view in one of the lead's curtained windows, a ridiculous smile still permanently affixed to his face.
"Quite the sendoff my friends, always nice to feel appreciated, no?"
A loud grunt could be heard from within the carriage.
"You're right Karl, we shouldn't delay."
The carriage door opened suddenly, a set of spring loaded silver steps extending out behind it allowing Gym to make his way down to the ground. He made his way over to the Favoured.
"I hope you find these travel accommodations to your liking, slightly colloquial I know but I assure you once we reach the capital you'll be subject to the full hospitality House Merinuk has to offer. I did arrange a small signing bonus as a sign of our appreciation in the meantime, however."
Almost as if on queue Karl emerged from the lead carriage in a single step, disregarding Gym's extended staircase entirely, a crate of fine spirits in clutched in his hands.
"Four of the finest bottles of liquor that will ever grace your tongues."
He lowered his voice as he eyed Argos standing just out of earshot,
"Something to rinse the taste of that country ale from your palate, and provide a little effervescence along our journey. Karl! Would you help our guests with their things?"
"Gentlemen in the rear carriage and ladies..."
, He bowed his head slightly and extended his hand towards Calopee and Sehanine,
",would you do me the great pleasure of joining me for our short ride in the lead?"
(OOC: Regardless of where you choose Gym and Karl will be riding in the front carriage with whoever chooses to join them. Each carriage sits 4 comfortably with your gear safely stowed. 3 if you're keeping armour and weapons about so someone is riding with Gym at least. Feel free to have any level of interaction you'd like. ~2 hour journey.)
Shortly After Noon, South shore of Cordova Bay, North of Schell
The trip had been fairly uneventful, with Gymenzious's incessant chattering (audible in either carriage) disturbing the peace. The sun had only just passed its peak as the carriages stopped along the shore and their occupants disembarked, and the clear blue sky provided a fine backdrop to the majestic sight of a large two-masted schooner anchored not far offshore. A group of nondescript sailors stood beside a pair rowboats prepared to ferry the group to the ship. Gymenzious wasted no time in merrily greeting them, making his way towards the water. Karl followed him but soon paused, turning back to look at a thick wooded glade just a little inland.
"-load their gear and we'll embark. Karl! Where are-"
Gymenzious turned around, finally realising his companion wasn't behind him.
"Come now Karl no time for this, what is it?"
Karl unsurprisingly grunted in response, giving another uneasy glance at the woods before shaking his head and making his way down to the boats. Gymenzious wasted no time.
"I thought not, the sooner we return home the sooner Master Merinuk will surely put us up for commendation. He'll be most excited to meet Fortune's Favoured. Most excited indeed."
His attention returned to the Favoured.
"Shall we, friends?"
(OOC: Boom? See Q&A)
Posted on 2017-12-05 at 17:38:45.
Edited on 2017-12-05 at 17:39:12 by Grugg
502 Posts
On Leadership.
He spoke again, this time to Mal. "You, friend may have some skill in battle, but you will get us all killed if you continue to act so recklessly. One of us does not get to commit all the rest to a venture. Whether we march towards fortune or folly, it must not be a forced one." He tilted his head, addressing the group as a whole. "Which brings me to the real point, something that has just become urgent. We need among us a leader, to speak to those who would hire us, to bargain, accept, and reject on our behalf. Or, failing that, at least a spokesman to get us through until such things can be decided. Who among us is best suited to dealing with a noble house?"
Calopee pondered this turn in the conversation. She hadn't considered this specific contingency. Truth be told, she had no interest in being led. That in itself did not suggest that she would want to assume the mantle of leadership either. She could outright lie with the best of them, but that was a stones throw away from true persuasion. Plus her diminutive demeanour was not to be taken seriously. Nor would she want it to be. Lost in the crowd. Forgotten. Dismissed. That was the best path to follow. Besides, she knew that nobody could contain her in truth. From the shadow, conjured from her whims, all things were malleable.
A figurehead. Spokesperson. That was what they needed. There were two clear candidates as far as the young hafling was concerned. The fey witch, or the stoic knight. Calopee had been mightily impressed by the enchantress. Her charm, and ensorcelled persuasion was a prescient force. She could charm the pants off of any noblemen. In fact, Calopee smirked discreetly, she'd wager it was more likely than not that she had.
But Relos, he'd have both the nobleman's envy, and the noblewoman's heart. The romanticism of a knight was so righteously thither. It was likely that he would make for a much better figure head. And in truth, would likely be a might bit easier to steer. Which was good. It was hard to keep a man of faith blind amongst the baleful. Keep him distracted however, on point, for fervour, and for glory! Well, that would be an acceptable ruse.
"For what's it's worth," she began, putting in her two coppers, "I think that the best representative for our little troupe would be the honourable Relos. Nothing pleases nobility more than the fealty of a Knight."
Posted on 2017-12-15 at 21:06:43.
Edited on 2017-12-16 at 08:00:57 by Philosopher
502 Posts
Something wicked this way comes.
"Gentlemen in the rear carriage and ladies...", He bowed his head slightly and extended his hand towards Calopee and Sehanine, ",would you do me the great pleasure of joining me for our short ride in the lead?"
Calopee graciously accepted Gymenzious' invite into his carriage. It left her with more room, and an escape from what would otherwise be a potential need for the social niceties of discussion and planning. She had already sized up the unabashedly self absorbed little man. He would be admittedly somewhat compelling, if only he were a mute. However, his constant prattle made for the perfect excuse to zone out and begin plying her trade into polishing the latest and greatest in precious skip rocks. (Crafting Skip Rock)
Karl followed him but soon paused, turning back to look at a thick wooded glade just a little inland.
"-load their gear and we'll embark. Karl! Where are-" Gymenzious turned around, finally realising his companion wasn't behind him. "Come now Karl no time for this, what is it?"
Karl unsurprisingly grunted in response, giving another uneasy glance at the woods before shaking his head and making his way down to the boats. Gymenzious wasted no time.
The unmistakable sound of snapping wood resounded in the little thief's prickling ears. The hair on her neck stood at attention, and all the more alarming was the validation of her paranoia by the lumbersome giant of a man, Karl, as his attention unerringly passed into the wooden thresh of the forest beyond. The young slinger instinctively shielded herself with the hulking human wall, as she intently honed in on the unnatural crackle of nature's bed. Men blundered upon the hallowed ground of the mothers hearth. Not animals who'd sooner stray than risk the wrath of human opportunity. With a discriminating eye she hoped to sort out the mystery that set her ears ablaze, her hair a-tingling, and the behemoth askew.
"Something seems amiss!" She fairly hissed in hushed whisper to her comrades.
(Spot check in the direction of the sound.)
Posted on 2017-12-15 at 22:17:03.
Edited on 2017-12-16 at 08:04:00 by Philosopher
Cheshire Cad
1178 Posts
The price of fame?
Gnomes tended to come in two varieties. It had little to do with location, social standing, or family lines. It was all about personality.
Gnomes were either the most interesting people you could meet, or the most maddening, certain thieving she-elves aside.
And it really said something about Gym's personality that Tristan was considering repealing that distinction. He didn't mind conversation, but he had no taste for babble. And babble Gym did on the now exceedingly long seeming journey to the ship. He'd gone along with the suggested seating arrangements, amused and a bit disappointed he wouldn't get to talk to the apparent representative of their prospective employer. Tristan remembered thinking, half an hour in, he'd get a chance to know him anyway, being able to hear him a carriage away. By the time the horses were stopped, Tristan was seriously considering tying him up and giving him to Mal for fencing practice.
As they moved to start boarding the rowboats, Tristan gazed at the ship, pondering the implications of time spent onboard with no chance of reprieve. The witch would surely attempt to kill Gym before they arrived, whether subtly with poison, or just magically flinging him off the boat. He'd have to talk to her before that happened.
Because he wanted in, by Disq.
Tristan had no idea what started it, having been busy massaging his temples and plotting elaborate murder, but he was aware enough to notice Calopee scramble behind the giant. At her harsh whisper, he drew his rapier, facing the direction that had her worried, searching for threat.
(((OOC: Spot and Listen checks in that direction.)))
Posted on 2017-12-24 at 00:00:16.
Edited on 2017-12-24 at 00:00:45 by Chessicfayth
RDI Fixture
1280 Posts
What? Who's there?
Sehanine smiled, almost genuinely, as she ascended into the carraige with the verbose gnome. Lies were always more believable when you believed them just a little yourself. So she smiled and joined Gymenzious (and his flapping jaw).
The journey was made dreadfully long by an endless stream of chatter spewing from the gnome. It was surely divine intervention that kept her from silencing the diminutive speaker or at the very least filling the carriage with imaginatively obscene visions. That and the more he talked the more she learned. Goals were sobering, even for the fey, and so Sehanine encouraged him to talk more. Whenever there was a moment of silence, the faery leaned in with a silvery question. After hours of nonstop chatter, Sehanine had a much better understanding of the little man and his motivations.
Their journey ended as abruptly as it had begun and they found themselves at the shore confronted by a truly dire fate. The masted ship docked nearby portended many more hours of the gnomes shrill pontificating. Slowly, Sehanine looked over towards Gymenzious to find him berating a nearby sailor with a blast of high pitched greetings. There was little chance the gnomish diplomat would make it to the other side of the shore.
Just as the elf resigned herself to the continued torture by chatter, little Calopee saved the day, again. Quickly snapping her gaze in the direction of the halfling's warning, Sehanine peered into the wooded depths. With a word of power and the snap of her fingers fey magic swirled around her, tightening into an impenetrable web of force that traced the contours of her body. Another snap of her fingers and Sehanine vanished from sight. She would be no easy target today.
Her violet gaze penetrated the sylvan shadows, seeking movement or any other threat. Through it all, dark magic danced at her fingertips.
((OOC: Mage Armor, Invisibility, Spot Check))
Posted on 2017-12-27 at 21:46:22.
Edited on 2017-12-27 at 21:46:52 by Nimu
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text:
New Year's Eve
Looking for ideas on how to celebrate the New Year in New York City? We have got you covered with everything that you need to know to celebrate the New Year. Check out our New Year's Eve cruise articles and find out the best yachts to set sail on this year. With an unforgettable celebration being all yours to enjoy and a magical experience onboard, where else would you want to spend the New Year? Check out our New Year's Eve cruise articles and celebrate the New Year right!


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It begins, as it always does, with the single chime of a tuning fork.
Stroll to the click clack, shoulder charging the stares and stomping footprints into the solid air. She walks arms wide, hair all nonsense now, breaking paving slabs and sending tables scattering across the bay. Majestic destruction. The young man can only pull the bridge back, peeling like a sardine can, as she comes – four arms and two legs full of sex and smiles. Metal groans and cries. Creases and splinters. Rivets explode like bullets. The water retreats respectfully and with haste, a pawing servant that has done wrong.
Limbs will be separated from the unwise and the foolhardy. Limbering up with many knuckles flexed. His dark eyes go cold and still, now only illuminated by the fire from her shoulders. The clenched jaw relaxes. The cheeks drop. Bags appear under his eyes. This is the time.
The first blow shatters his jaw in an unclean break, spilling molars out like ants from a disturbed nest. It falls away pathetically, as his tongue lolls desperately for an anchor. The eyes are crossed in desperate committee. With the second blow he explodes into matter, molecules dancing across a vibrating metal sheet. Underpinned by fresh air and vagarities, he falls into his shoes, collapsing with final elegance, falling without grace but finality. The bridge snaps back, relieved.
He has fingers like Greek columns. She has barbed-wire eyelashes.
Reflecting on events, as the salt water washes over my battered old boots. So many scuff marks from bad dancing. Running my fingers over old stone, bouncing my guitar string callouses off the granite flakes. Feeling the keen northern wind, knowing that my hair rears like an ugly Medusa in the backdraft. Single strands stick to my eyeballs and try to invade my mouth. I rest my elbows respectfully from the dead flowers mourning those who chose to vault the fence and plunge into the sea.
I remember; in my teen years a young man died whilst resting against the front window of a small supermarket where I worked. I strolled in on that unassuming Sunday morning to find a labyrinth of police tape to navigate. Showing my uniform to the solemn officers, I made my way in to an empty cold store and empty cold stares. The young man had been stabbed, staggered a hundred yards or so and finally bled to death propped up against the window. Every time I looked out of that window, or happened to walk past that spot, I'd look up and see what he undoubtedly saw in his final moments – an impossible connection between two contrasting states.
When I walk the route to the cliff edge, I look around and imagine what a person might be seeing as they take their final walk. Do the seagulls irritate with their harsh cackle, or does the graceful swoop allow a moment of serendipity? Does the daunting cliff edge, with it's diving board profile beckon them, or does it haunt like the shadow of a drizzly gallows? The harsh lines of a guillotine.
I rest my elbows and reflect. I'll never take that walk with those intentions. I'll always turn around and walk back. And yet I can't help wondering what I will be staring at when my eyes close for the last time, whether anyone will be there to share that view.
Out of a strange respect, she removes the boots and sets them on fire. She cuts off her ponytail so the strands are now splayed like a hand grasping for them in desperation. They too are burned. The bridge buckles like melted plastic under her light foot but never threatens to break. A final wave, a lick of the finger to check the air. Her knees are bleeding but she can't remember why. By the time she returns, the blood now forms the tattoo of a river that deltas at her long feet.
The vibrations die. Everything is still.
Is silent.


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Should You Teach Your Baby or Toddler How to Read?
J. Richard Gentry has an article on the Psychology Today website titled Top 10 Reasons to Teach Your Baby or Toddler to Read.1 I taught both of my children to read as babies, so I have decided to do my own top 10 list (see My Experience Teaching My Baby to Read for more information). Hopefully this will be helpful to parents who are either currently teaching their babies to read or to parents who are considering it.
1. Learning to Read is Easier for Babies and Toddlers
This is Gentry's number 3. I put it at number 1 because I think it is hugely important. Five and six year olds have to work hard to learn to read. It can be a very frustrating process for many children. It could potentially kill a love of reading.
Babies just need regular exposure to words and phonics to learn to read. They don't have to put in effort. They don't have to slowly sound out words. According to J. Richard Gentry, learning to read comes naturally from infancy up to age 4. After that, learning to read requires a lot of work on the part of the child.
2. Baby Reading Can Cut Down on Future TV Watching
Some parents teach their babies to read using the Your Baby Can Read DVD series or through screen media, such as the Brillkids Little Reader software. The case is often made by opponents of teaching babies to read that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no TV viewing for children under 2.
My older child watched about 25 minutes of TV a day to assist in learning to read. Her TV viewing as a 6 year old is often no more than 30 minutes a day. When she has nothing to do, she picks up a book. She has advanced reading skills, so she easily read more interesting books aimed at 9 to 10 year olds. Right now, she is very into the American Girl series (for ages 9+) and the Little House on the Prairie series.
3. Preschoolers Can Read By Themselves
Most parents are busy and often can't spend much time reading to their kids. I am a work-at-home parent. I spend 20 to 45 minutes a day reading to each of my kids. Since they both can read so well, they can spend time reading to themselves. My 6 year old regularly reads for 3 to 4 hours a day. My 3 year old will often spend 15 to 20 minutes reading books to herself. They aren't limited in their reading by how much time I can dedicate.
4. Early Readers Can Build a Large Base of Knowledge
This is closely connected to number 3. Because a preschooler can read, they can build up a large base of knowledge on their own. They are not dependent on an adult to read to them.
5. It Likely Ensures that Your Child Won't Have Reading Problems in School
If you start teaching reading consistently to an infant or toddler, they most likely will be competent readers by the time they are school-age. According to the 2009 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)2 reading report only "thirty-eight percent of twelfth-graders performed at or above the Proficient level in reading." Teaching reading in the infant, toddler and preschool years will likely significantly lower the risk of your child being a poor reader in high school.
6. Early Readers Have Speed Reading Ability
Parents of early readers often report that their children have speed reading ability. I have seen this with my 6 year old. She can read 70 to 80 page books in about half an hour. I once tested her reading speed and found that she was reading 5 words per second with full comprehension at the age of 5.
7. Early Readers Likely Maintain their Advanced Reading Ability
Few studies have been done on early readers but those studies have found that they maintain a reading advantage. Later readers don't catch up. Dolores Durkin did a pair of studies on preschool readers. Students in California had been in school for 6 years. The New Yorkers had been in school for 3 years. Many of the early readers had already skipped a grade.
Early readers were ahead and did better on reading tests. Children who learned to read at 3 were also better readers than those who learned at the age of 4. As of yet, no studies have been done on baby readers, although some are in progress. But if the Durkin studies are anything to go by, earlier is better when it comes to reading.
8. It Makes Spelling and Grammar Easier to learn
I homeschool my 6 year old. Due to her reading ability, she always knows when she has spelled a word incorrectly. She knows that a word doesn't look right. She is either able to figure out how to correct the word herself or ask for help.
I think early reading has also made grammar easier. She has never made a mistake when it comes to learning concepts like verb tense. My guess is that she is so used to seeing the written word that she easily knows what looks right and wrong.
9. Increase the Odds That You Will Raise a Lifelong Reader
I think that teaching children to read as babies will increase the likelihood that they will grow up with a love of books. According to studies done by Scholastic3, children read less for pleasure as they get older. There can be many reasons for this, including distractions like TV and video games, but another possible reason is that children's reading abilities may not be good enough.
As I already mentioned, only 38% of 12th graders are proficient in reading, according to the NAEP. Children won't enjoy reading if they are not good at it. A child who is taught to read early is much more likely to be a good reader (based on Durkin's study and others).
10: Baby Reading May Better Prepare Your Child for a Globalized World
According to estimates, 50 million US jobs will eventually disappear and 60% of the remaining jobs will be high skill, high knowledge jobs. Only 20% of Americans will have the necessary skills to fill these jobs.
If baby readers maintain very advanced reading skills into adulthood they may be much better prepared for the future reality they will face. Because much of our knowledge comes from reading, faster reading with better comprehension should be a huge benefit.
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Drew Wakariuk commented 2017-03-10 02:12:41 -0500
Space Moose they also give money to the Pals.
All this week, I've been on assignment in Israel with our Rebel team. I've been to Israel before, but for them, it is their first visit and it's been enlightening to experience the country through their eyes.
I've come to a conclusion on this trip that I think may surprise some of you.
That is, I believe the West should pay less attention to the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict, and get serious about dealing with its own domestic terror problems...
PS: WATCH all our reports from Israel at RebelIsrael.com


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Green Walking Project
The Green Walking Project aims to promote and improve access to green spaces for general adult psychiatric inpatients. It is funded by a grant from the Network for Social Change and delivered by CSH in partnership with the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
People with severe mental health conditions face impacts on their physical and mental health but also the effects of discrimination. As inpatients, their care may involve involuntary hospitalisations for extended periods often under circumstances with limited access to the natural world. Walking groups can be an achievable means for wards and hospitals to provide their inpatients with the benefits of spending time in green spaces.
Within the environment of an inpatient ward, walking groups require a relatively small amount of preparatory infrastructure and cost. Moreover, they incorporate the benefits of physical activity into flexible experiences which can accommodate and reflect a range of choices and care-needs. A walk through a green space can be transformed to include elements of photography and other arts, mindful practice, a closer study of nature and of course the company of others. Their relative simplicity helps to create the much-needed space where patients and staff can focus on collaborative care models.
Over the course of 2018-20, the Green Walking Project (GWP) will:
- Establish Green Beacon Sites: we are working closely with a number of mental health trusts to establish new green space walking groups. These projects are helping to identify barriers to best practice, promote the importance of green spaces for mental health and directly inform recommendations in the final guide.
- Promote pre-existing evidence and good practice: through conferences, disseminating case studies, and new publications, the GWP is increasing the awareness of the value of walking in green spaces while bringing attention to the excellent work already happening in NHS mental health trusts.
- Form a collaborative network: understanding that, at its best, the delivery of mental health care reflects input from patients and a wide range of professionals, the GWP is developing a supportive and collaborative network of key stakeholders.
- Create and publish the Green Walking Guide: the guide will summarise relevant evidence as well as represent perspectives from patients and a wide range of professionals. It will be publicly available and is meant as a resource to help professionals start new groups within their wards.
This project works on many levels. It emphasises the value of exposure to the natural world for supporting well-being and seeks to identify barriers preventing greater access to green spaces. It also builds resources and pilot projects/case studies to empower the health service to overcome pre-existing challenges that prevent the integration of green spaces into standard models of inpatient care.
We very much appreciate your interest in the GWP and welcome any effort in promoting this work within your work and community. Should you have any interest in becoming involved or would like to know more please get in touch.
Green Beacon Sites 2019
We are delighted to be working with exceptional teams to establish new walking groups at the following eight mental health Trusts:
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
Bradford and District Care NHS Foundation Trust
Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust
Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust
South London and Maudsley Foundation Trust
Tee, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Green Walking Project Case Studies
- Avon and Wiltshire Partnership NHS Trust
- Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust: Guild Lodge
- Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust: Orchard Unit
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
- NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


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+971 42112848
Nearest Parking:Al raya street - Building 19
Commercial Bank of Dubai
Managing your money is a crucial part of daily life. So whether you need to make a deposit, cash cheques, look into loans or draw money from the ATM, you can conduct all your banking business at City Walk's branch of the Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), one of the UAE's best banking brands.
Over the decades, CBD has transformed into a progressive and modern banking institution, supported by a sturdy financial base led by a strong and stable management. Today, CBD Dubai offer a full range of financial services to help customers build and manage their finances, in order to achieve greater financial freedom and social prosperity.


text:
Make the most of your international talent
With the help of LYS you can create a more inclusive workplace.
Do the work tasks require certain language skills that your foreign employees lack?
Customised books and learning material
With more than ten years' experience of teaching and producing textbooks and other course material, LYS is a safe choice if you are looking to improve Swedish language skills at your workplace.
We always have applicability and authenticity in mind.
Do you need to communicate more effectively with international colleagues, partners and clients?
Adapted text material and communication for readers and users with limited Swedish language skills.
Production, editing and reviewing of international documentation as well as external communication. We build our work on your readers' existing skills and reference systems to create texts that engage.
Do you feel unsure on how to optimise collaboration and communication between international and Swedish co-workers?
Lectures and workshops
Our lecturers speak for Swedish, international as well as mixed audiences.
From idea to publication
We create tailor-made books and learning material for your specific sector and everyday work tasks so that your international colleagues can perform their best also in Swedish.
You tell us about your needs and goals and what you and your colleagues do at work.
We match your needs and goals with language skills and communication tools and make a proposal for the finished product.
Our researchers collate existing material, conduct field trips and interviews.
Our skilled and knowledgable writers put together the material together with our graphic designer, illustrator and editor.
The book is reviewed and tested, in terms of language as well as relevance and accuracy for your field.
Your book is sent to print and will soon be used by you and your colleagues.
We optimise your texts
Our consultants make sure that your text is linguistically and culturally appropriate for your readers.
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Customised templates for external and internal communication.
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Professional Swedish
Based on research, Emil tells you about the importance of language for work and career purposes. Emil has many years' experience of teaching in traditional classroom and digital learning environments and creating specialised curricula in professional Swedish. He has specialist skills in medical Swedish.
Emil is the perfect speaker for organisations within the healthcare sector aiming to improve the work and career conditions for its foreign workforce.
Sofi Tegsveden Deveaux
Cultural self-awareness
Sofi puts the finger on what is typically Swedish and engages all sorts of audiences. She bases her talk on authentic examples and gives practical tools to ensure better communication and collaboration across cultural borders.


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On occasion of International Women's Day, architects at various stages in their careers convened in New York to discuss the dynamics and possibilities of mentorship, collaboration and advancement in architecture.
Panelists included Louise Braverman, FAIA, Founding Principal of Louise Braverman Architect, Julia Gamolina, founder and Editor of Madame Architect, Samantha Josaphat, Founder of Studio 397 and President of The New York Chapter of The National Organization of Minority Architects, Vivian Lee, AIA Principal at Richard Meier & Partners, Sara Lopergolo, AIA and Partner at Selldorf Architects, Mindy No, AIA, Associate Principal at Perkins Eastman, and Kerry Nolan, AIA, who is Senior Associate at Beyer Blinder Belle. Nolan and Lee chair the AIANY Women in Architecture Committee. Caroline James, co-founder, VOW Architects, moderated the discussion.
The panel purposely had both mentors and mentees, so that panelists are able to share from various stages in their careers. Some key takeaways include from the talk include:
- It's a chemistry thing. The more in-sync the mentor and mentee are, the more sustaining the relationship.
- Mentorship vs Sponsorship: Mentorship can't be too formalized, as there is a lot of spillover of profession into personal and ancillary topics. A sponsor however is more often within one's firm, or is a close association.
- It's often better to not to have one's mentor in-house because sometimes you aren't happy and need to talk it over. Having a more neutral party is helpful.
- Big firms have the resources to do more structured efforts such as creating women in architecture groups. Firms such as fxfowle have this group. The Diversity and Inclusion group at Perkins Eastman also provides a platform for mentorship.
- NCARB is trying to formalize mentorship programs, for various reasons, including how difficult that path to licensure is.
- The AIA National Organization has not formalized mentorship per se. However, interestingly, an amendment to the AIA Code of Ethics formalize responsibility of Mentorship in relation to the Intern Development Program. Developing a comprehensive toolkit at the AIA National level would be a great step towards giving actionable, down-to-earth programs that can truly shift the needle. These efforts are vital in tandem with the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion efforts that are being prioritized at present.
- Ways to find a mentor include getting out there to WIA events, AIANY etc. It's essential to make time for these networking events – some suggest putting these events in one's calendar and keeping disciplined, just as one would go to the gym or take one's medicine.
- All participants note how the mentorship is a symbiotic relationship with both sides learning from one another.
Good news is that there is ample room to ramp up mentorship. This is the critical next step and top-priority for VOW-Voices of Women Architects.
Thursday, 3/7, 6:30pm – 8pm
Perkins Eastman, 115 Fifth Avenue
Thanks to organizers AIANY Women in Architecture Committee and Perkins Eastman, and thank you to AIANY-Ben Prosky for helping make this happen.
Interested to bring hear more about mentorship efforts to your organization? Reach out to Caroline James (contact below) for more info!


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Work with gradient stops and create new gradients in PowerPoint 2010 for Windows.
Author: Geetesh Bajaj
Product/Version: PowerPoint 2010 for Windows
OS: Windows XP and higher
Once you have added gradient fills to shapes in PowerPoint 2010 you may want to make some changes to the gradient fill. You have already seen how you can use the More Gradients option to add different types of gradients as fills to the shapes. In this tutorial, we'll step into a little more detail and show you how Gradient Stops work. When you are done with this tutorial, you can create your own gradients, or edit existing ones.
A Gradient Stop is the point where a new color is introduced within the gradient blend. All gradients must have at least two or more stops, we explain this in more detail later in this page.
Follow these steps to get started:
See Also:
Gradient Stops in PowerPoint 2016 for Windows
Gradient Stops in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
Gradient Stops in PowerPoint 2013 for Windows
Gradient Stops in PowerPoint 2011 for Mac
Gradient Stops in PowerPoint 2007 for Windows
Want to play a Jeopardy-like game using PowerPoint slides? Yes, this is absolutely doable but making PowerPoint slides with all the interactivity and layouts takes too much work. Fortunately, we have done the work for you. just download our Jeopardy-like 25 (5x5) question PowerPoint template, replace the placeholders provided for questions, answers, and categories, and you're done! You'll still need a real human being to track scores and you could soon be playing this amazing game as part of a fun exercise, a training program, or even a quiz show.
Download and play your own Jeopardy-like game
Microsoft and the Office logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.


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Aggiungi come amico
|Short term property rental
Su Evin
I love hostessing and meeting new people! I graduated from Tourism and Hotel Management Univercity. I have been living in İstanbul for 17 years. My job is my hobby. I like it.
Valutazioni per gli alloggi di Evin
Erik 4.0 07-06-2013
In the apartment you live together with the host thus sharing the living room, kitchen, bathroom etc. I stayed in one of the two guest rooms (the one with two single beds). The room is small, the beds are simple and the view from the room is unfortunately not to Bosphorus (only from the living room), but overall the room was clean, practicable and fully served my needs. Given the faboulus location, the stunning view from the living room, easy access to Bosphorus seeside with restaurants, clubs etc., it is really a nice place to be.
Maxine 5.0 29-02-2012
A lovely, homely flat - clean and nicely decorated. A wonderful view to wake up to in the morning. We loved sitting on the roof terrace in the evening looking over the rooftops and the Bosphorus. I hope to go back in the summer when it must be even nicer. Well located too, handy for the airport bus to/from Taksim Square and only a few minutes walking from lots of nice local bars and restaurants.
Valutazioni per il gestore Evin
Evin a annulé une réservation pour Galata 5Rm-4Bath-2kitchen for 8p 1min to istiklal seulement 60 jours avant l'arrivée.
Erik 5.0 07-06-2013
Evrim, the host, was very supportive. She accepted my last minute booking request within few hours. She picked me up close to her apartment and everything went very well. She also showed me around and helped me with all issues. She is a very relaxed and flexible personality with very good English skills. She made my stay in Istanbul a really good experience. If I come back I would definitly stay again with her. Thank you again!!!
Maxine 5.0 29-02-2012
Evrim was very friendly and helpful. She met us on time, with a smile, even though we were delayed after lengthy queue at Turkish customs.


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Order online Rosacea treatment.
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Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is reminiscent of severe acne and usually occurs on the face. More than 400 million people worldwide are thought to be affected by rosacea. This disease is usually triggered by excessive strain on the skin. In many cases rosacea is chronic and not completely curable. However, the symptoms can be greatly reduced by appropriate treatment with medication.
For many people it is like a nightmare: one thinks he overcame acne with youth, and then it can suddenly reappear in a modified form in adulthood as well, in the form of rosacea. The appearance of the skin is similar: first reddening of the skin, later vasodilatation, inflammatory blisters and nodules. Sometimes rosacea, which occurs in relapses, can even cause severe itching, and is thus sometimes a severe impairment in the lives of affected people.
The causes that lead to the development of rosacea are debatable. It is clear that this occurs in certain people when they put excessive strain on their skin: through too much UV radiation, for example, or through poorly tolerated cosmetics, heat, hot showers, stress and too much coffee consumption. However, why a certain percentage of all people develop this chronic form of skin inflammation has not yet been clarified. However, genetic disposition is suspected which, in combination with bacterial infections or immunological factors, leads to the described skin irritations. Particularly tragic for those affected: once rosacea has formed, it is usually no longer completely curable. However, with appropriate behavior, the symptoms can be kept under control to a large extent. Certain medications can also help.
Rosacea is known to have three degrees of severity and some special forms. At severity 1, in addition to reddening of the skin, vascular dilatation occurs in the facial skin. The skin tends to flake and itch, and occasionally stabbing pain can occur. With severity 2, additional blisters and knots appear which remain for several weeks before disappearing again. In addition, fluid accumulation can occur in the facial tissue. Severity 3 expresses itself through strongly inflamed enlarged sebaceous glands – it develops growths, as for instance a pug nose. This form of rosacea can be a significant psychological burden for those affected. Furthermore, some sub-types of rosacea are known, which have different characteristics.
Unfortunately, rosacea can only be treated to a limited extent and will usually not disappear completely. However, one can largely get the symptoms under control. Above all, the right cosmetic care can significantly improve the appearance of the skin. Patients should also pay close attention to their diet – however, it is not possible to generalize any nutritional tips, as every patient reacts to different foods. A big help in the treatment of rosacea is the use of medication. One can rely on local therapy, which usually works with cream. This is applied directly to the affected areas. Metronidazole and azelaic acid are among the most important active substances used in this process. The main focus here is on the anti-inflammatory effect of these drugs. These drugs also inhibit the growth of skin cells, which counteracts skin proliferation.
The systemic treatment of rosacea relies on medication in the form of tablets. These are mostly used for the serious form of this skin disease. Antibiotics can also be used if the trigger is bacterial in nature. At Apomeds we offer two products: Soolantra, Mirvaso Gel. Finally, laser treatments and surgical procedures can bring improvements.
At Apomeds you can also buy medications for the treatment of rosacea. Among the products that have proven helpful are Soolantra and Mirvaso Gel. In both cases the creams are intended for local therapy. You can now order from the comfort of your own home. An online prescription will be issued to you by an licences doctor, and the original product will be delivered to your home!


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Exercise bikes and rowing machines provide a low-impact and no weight bearing cardiovascular workouts. The rowing machine strengthens muscles in the upper and the lower body. The exercise bike is great for improving lower body muscles.
In this quick post, we're going to compare exercise bikes and rowing machines. In each section, we'll see which machine is better than the other one in that regard. By the end of this article, you'll find out which machine is better for you and your exercise routine.
When it comes to burning calories, the stationary bike is the winner. Within an hour, you'll burn at least 606 calories through an exercise bike.
This is because it forces you to engage your lower muscles and move at a constant speed in comparison to a rowing machine.
Rowing machines provide a good workout, but don't burn calories as fast as the exercise bike. On average, you'll burn at least 400 calories in an hour of rowing.
Because of this, the exercise bike is more effective at burning calories in a short time span.
Winner: Exercise Bike
Rowing machines win in this category. Unlike exercise bikes, they allow you to use your full. The rowing machine is proven to enhance the muscles in your quadriceps, hamstrings, and anterior and posterior deltoids (biceps & triceps).
One main flaw with the exercise bike is that it only works out the lower body. While this is great for some, this can be a problem for users wanting a complete workout.
Still, the rowing machine utilizes almost every muscle in your body, giving you a more complete exercise.
Winner: Rowing Machine
Exercise bikes offer a myriad of apps and exercise routines. For instance, more expensive bikes feature extra settings that allow you do stamina training, strength training and HIIT interval exercises.
As a result, exercise bikes provide a more versatile range of exercises in comparison to the rowing machine.
Rowing machines are currently limited when it comes to exercise programs. While you can still complete an intensive routine with a machine, it lacks the exercise customization of a bike.
Thus you should opt for an exercise bike if you want to complete a various set of workouts.
Winner: Exercise Bike
The exercise bike is the clear winner. It allows you to create your own workouts, adjust your resistance, and burns calories faster.
Get a exercise bike you're looking for a cardio routine that you can control.
That being said rowing machines are still useful exercise equipments. Rowing machines help you by working out and enhancing both your upper and lower body.
Try it out if you're want a simple, yet intensive cardio workout.
Ultimately, you should incorporate both the exercise bike and the rowing into your daily training. This ensures that you'll effectively workout each muscle in your body.
In addition, both will help you remove the body fat at a faster rate. Using both exercise machines will keep you in shape while also improving your cardiovascular health.
ExerciseRig.com serves as my way to keep people informed and motivated with their home fitness while providing plenty of guidance and advice when buying new products to help them reach their goals. My own story is a bit unconventional from what you may be used to. Although I was never severely out of shape, a severe knee injury actually resulted in me emerging more in form than ever, mostly thanks to equipment such as exercise bikes that I used during my long rehab journey. I've remained in shape ever since, and I now focus my efforts on sharing what I've learned from all my research and hands-on experience with a variety of home exercise equipment and workouts, passing it along to my readers. If you're in need of unbiased, genuine, and real fitness equipment advice, this is where you need to be.


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A recreational building with 40' high windows was in need for a solution to clean their high windows in a safe manner, so IPC Eagle presented to the facility, along with the company that maintains it, the HydroTube.
The HydroTube is in IPC Eagle's Ultra Pure line, and will turn tap water into purified, mineral-free water with a reverse osmosis system. The pure water then can be used to clean windows without the need of chemicals, which results in streak-free windows that stay clean longer as there is no residue left behind capturing particles.
The workers loved how easy the HydroTube was to use and that they could extend the carbon fiber pole at heights over 30'. To learn more about how IPC Eagle's Ultra Pure line works or to schedule a demonstration, click here.


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Tag: podcast guest
How My Perception of Being a Podcast Guest Changed
When I first heard about podcasts, I have to admit, that I was skeptical about their lasting power. After all, there are already so many popular ways to get the information out there it seemed unlikely that one more medium clogging up the data stream could be beneficial. But alas, I was wrong! So wrong,
3 Unique Advantages of Hiring a Podcast Guest Booker
Looking to get featured on more podcasts? Podcasts can be a great way to showcase your expertise and even generate leads and conversions for your business.
Podcasts serve a huge market right now. According to an article in Forbes, "The reach of a single podcast and be larger than a TV audience." If you're looking to promote your business, getting booked for interviews is pretty much a no-brainer.
The Benefits of Hiring a Podcast Guest Booker
If you've tried booking podcast appearances on your own, it can be a hassle.
The idea of having someone book on your behalf might sound like a dream.
PR firms don't necessarily specialize in podcast bookings, but did you know a podcast guest booker can help search for podcast interviews?
Hiring one can help you avoid the struggle of sending loads of emails, filling out contact forms and tracking down hosts, especially on popular shows.
Here's a list of advantages to hiring a podcast guest booker.
6 Tips to Properly Prepare for a Podcast Interview
If you've never appeared as a guest for a podcast interview, when you first sign up, you might not understand exactly what to do. Scratch that. You might be in over your head (or just feel that way in the moment.)
The instructions may mention recommended equipment you need to use or a link in an email you'll need to click on to connect you with the podcaster, etc.
Before you send an urgent mass email or panicky social media announcement to all of your friends asking for help, stop and try these tips first. They can get you quickly up to speed on what to do and how to make your podcast appearance a success.
Here are some pointers to keep in mind if you're new to podcast interview appearances.
The Benefits of Appearing on a Podcast Interview
If you just wrote a book, have an online course, or you're not promoting anything, in particular, a podcast appearance can work to you're benefit for many reasons. It can broaden your market by making people aware of you and your brand. It's an opportunity to showcase your expertise. It can also establish and maintain
How to Get Booked as a Podcast Guest
I recently heard Oprah Winfrey discussing the early stages of her career on a YouTube video. She explained her career path and how when she was a reporter; she thought it was easier to report what happened by talking about it versus writing about it. Though we can't necessarily replicate the success of someone like
Use Podcast Publicity as a Public Relations Strategy
Maybe you already have a decent social media following, but you are not getting as much exposure as you'd like. Perhaps you don't have enough time to respond to a HARO query or reach out to writers to get media coverage, but don't get down in the dumps . . . Trying too hard could
Podcast Guest Tips to Better Prepare for an Interview
If you pitched a podcast and the host agrees to have you on as a guest or you met a podcaster in person that would like to interview you, here are some tips to prepare for an episode. 1. Prepare what to say If the show episodes are based on topics, be sure to find


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Clubs List
The club has produced a number of well-known international golfers
Both the men's and women's teams play out of student friendly golf courses in Dublin. Students taking advantage of the club membership enjoy the benefits of playing top championship courses at the many outings that are organised during the year. The club welcomes players of all standards. Coaching is usually organised from October in local driving ranges, with team practices also arranged in preparation for competitions.
Competitive activity for the club this season includes the Intervarsities, the annual Colours match, the Irish Colleges Golf Association League as well as the main senior open club cups.
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Instagram: @ucdgolf


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We are recognized as one of the well-known leading suppliers and manufacturers of Pest Control Liquid. Our Pest control Liquid from Maharashtra, India, is counted as one of the best pest control. Being in liquid form, it dissolves very quickly into the soil and gives faster result. To cater to the need of the customers, the presented product can be availed in different packaging. We always try to serve the best at reasonable prices.
Details : High efficiency, economic, eco-friendly technology. Best for effective control of all major fruit flies affecting Mango, Guava, Orange, Annona, Sapota, papaya, Olive, Melon, Banana etc
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Different origins & tastes of Indonesian coffee
Indonesia is a home for many espresso assortments. The vast majority of them are Arabica, in light of the fact that in Indonesia, espresso is planted in good countries, crosswise over Indonesia, from the western tip of Sumatera until eastern end of Papua.
Numerous individuals said that Indonesian espresso are increasingly acidic towards the western of its starting point, and taste bolder towards the eastern. Supposedly, the corrosiveness of espresso relies upon numerous components like the dirt, until the procedure.
Diverse process brought about various taste and acridity even its from same beans from same ranch. The washed or unwashed beans giving diverse notes of the bean. Washed ones taste increasingly nutty while the unwashed ones will in general be better. The dimension of cooking gives diverse taste. The darker the simmering, the bolder the taste.
Here's my pick of single inception Indonesian espresso, from west to east:
Gayo. Gayo is a territory in the Aceh area in most western tip of Indonesia. Gayo espresso having medium to high corrosiveness. Yet, this high corrosiveness contributed by fruity notes, in some cases possess a scent like citrus and blossom. Sweet smell.
Sidikalang, Lintong and Mandheling. These are three unique beans however practically similar in taste. They are developed in various territory in North Sumatera. Sidikalang is bit increasingly acidic and Mandheling will in general be smoother, however Mandheling is progressively fragrant with home grown notes. Lintong is bit not so much acidic but rather more gritty flavor with a trace of coconut and herbs.
Kerinci. Developed at the incline of Sumatera's most astounding mountain, the beans isn't exactly well known yet it tasted so unpredictable; its fruity sweet yet tart. Medium to high body, and feels extremely macho with a touch of tobacco smell.
Lampung. This one is a Robusta in light of the fact that its developed in low rise place where there is Lampung in southernmost tip of Sumatera. Tasted nutty, with a trace of chocolate season, smell a bit citrus and exceptionally strong body.
Sunda Honey. Like its name, this one is developed in western Java. This one is victor for me. Everything is adjusted. Medium body with sweet fragrance of flower and cinnamon, pose a flavor like caramel-nectar and extremely smooth.
Wonosobo. The nippy good countries of Central Java. Medium body with caramel taste and sweet tobacco fragrance. Like its kin, Wonosobo espresso is having quiet sensation for me.
Toraja Kalosi and Toraja Mamasa. They become not very far away in western region of Central Sulawesi. Both taste nutty, however the Kalosi have solid cinnamon smell and Mamasa increasingly like flavors notes practically like pepper. High body with smooth delayed flavor impression. My most loved for restless night.
Bali. Developed in good countries of Gods Island, the taste is extraordinary delectable. By one way or another better than any beans (even Sunda), more grounded citrus fragrance and nutty flavor with intense body.
Flores Yellow Caturra. This espresso developed in the good countries of Flores Island. Yellow Caturra is extraordinary on the grounds that not at all like other espresso fruits, the natural product is yellow when ready, not red. Striking body, pose a flavor like vanilla, with citrus and tropical flower fragrance.
Papua Wamena. Developed in detached good country of Papua, the espresso is all natural since substance pesticide is costly. Strong body, with rich have an aftertaste like sweet caramel, flavor and flower notes in the fragrance. Eventhough its exceptionally strong body, the delayed flavor impression is light and smooth.
In recent years, espresso culture in Indonesia is developing, the espresso specialist continues discovering an ever increasing number of assortments of Indonesian espresso. Distinctive estate in neighboring territory some of the time having diverse taste. That makes Indonesian espresso so rich and differing.
Kopi Luwak is something we don't typically drink. Luwak espresso created in eastern Java, and after the fruits age, we feed it to the Luwak. Following 2 days, the Luwak crapped the fruits, we pick the beans, washed it and sun dried it. The taste is peachy sweet since it gets aged in Luwak stomach related framework, and in the event that it blonde broiled it would be so acidic, run with the medium-dim meal since it'd be fragrant and smooth. Simmering it dim would be excessively intense and coarse, losing its sweet notes amid the procedure.


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Category Archives: Blogging
The Morbid Month of October
October was the month of guest blogging at every opportunity I could. It made for a rich, full month, along with the four live events I participated in and the birthday trip we took to Singapore. Here's the October roundup: … Continue reading
No More Heroes is done at last
I turned in the final draft of the last book of my trilogy last Monday. I checked my email every hour for the next three days until my editor said he'd passed the book on to production. No More Heroes … Continue reading
Orally fixated
Emerian Rich (in her secret identity as Emmy Z. Madrigal) has a fun new way to rate novels on her romance blog. She invited me and some of the other Ladies of Horror (a super-secret Facebook group, kind of like … Continue reading
2014 in review
The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2014 annual report for this blog. Here's an excerpt: A New York City subway train holds 1,200 people. This blog was viewed about 3,700 times in 2014. If it were a NYC subway … Continue reading
Never Enough, 2014
Every year I recap the writing triumphs and disappointments of the previous twelve months and every year I feel like it's never enough. This year especially, while I waited to get my first space opera back from the editor, I … Continue reading


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Reviews of Little Vumbura
They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa.
Amazing isolation
At Little Vumbura you truly feel isolated. The reserve is big, and it feels even bigger because you end up going in a roundabout way on the game drives due to the delta. We had amazing viewing on our game drives. Due to the heat, the afternoon/evening drives had much better viewing than the morning drives when it was hot. We had several leopard sightings and also saw lions, giraffe, and many elephants. We also caught glimpses of the red lechwe, though these tend to get scared of people.
The tends were nicely furnished, and the balcony was comfortable and private. The camp felt like part of the wilderness, though it was comfortable. The food was generally excellent, though a few dishes missed the mark. Brunch was a particular highlight as they offered both a full breakfast and substantial lunch options.
The camp managers were very friendly and excellent at facilitating conversation. The bar was always open, and drinks were excellent.
Excellent camp and safaris
K was by far the best guide of all our trip. Thoroughly enjoyed every minuite of our 3 days here.
Our first genuine safari and being in the delta enjoyed the boating aspect of the trip. Would recommend this venue to others.
Close shave with elephants at Little Vumbura
Little Vumbura is on an island which makes it an exceptionally beautiful location among the reeds. There is a speed boat journey through a channel to reach it which due to exceptional flood conditions (highest in 30 years) took about 15 minutes (longer than usual apparently), although that afforded some great views of wading elephants (we gave way to them). Coming back at dusk you needed sunglasses as protection against swarms of small insects.
A highlight was the arrival of two young bull elephants which we watched approach the camp and then take up browsing rights alongside the walkway to the communal area thus delaying tea!
The guiding was excellent (as throughout our time in Botswana). We saw a leopard in a tree by day - and Sam went to great lengths to help us find whatever we asked for (a particular treat was coming across a pair of secretary birds after searching for owls).
Little Vumbura's position in the reeds gave it its own particular character. The management staff were, as usual, professional, helpful and friendly - we particularly enjoyed the knowledgeable company of Ryan, and One for whom nothing was too much trouble. The boma braai was great fun and the singing wasthe best we heard on the trip.
Close encounters wanted & unwanted
We arrived at little Vumbura by helicopter - a new experience for us. Due to the exceptionally high water levels the vehicles had to be parked a considerable distance from the camp itself with a 25 minute boat trip along a narrow channel in the reeds. this was quite exhilarating at first, but became a bit tiresome when undertaken four times a day for morning & afternoon game drives. It also meant that night drives were unavailable as the lightweight aluminium boat couldn't be safely negotiated along the channel due to he presence of hippos.
The camp itself was beautifully situated & well appointed, but somehow lacked the happy atmosphere of the other two caps already visited. The accommodation was very comfortable & the food excellent.
Sam, our guide, was every bit as good as the guides we'd met so far, but let us down by forgetting to bring glasses for our first evenings sun downers & bring navy rum the second evening instead of the brandy we had requested. However his skills at finding game made up for this.
In addition to the usual, we saw ostrich, ground horn bill (our favourite birds) water buck & black backed jackals. He demonstrated superb driving skills when driving at speed before it became too dark to reach a reported leopard on a kill & in avoiding the unwanted attentions of a female elephant ("one crazy lady" - Sam) who decided to turn a mock charge into the real thing in thick bush & later pursued us down the track for 200/300 yards.
We achieved two more of our targets with, firstly, a group of beautiful sable antelope & secondly, in the last hour of our stay before the transfer to Mapula, a stunning female leopard in bright sunlight lying along a horizontal branch, just above us. The photos & video footage we obtained will be one of the highlights of the holiday. thank you Sam - all is forgiven.
Little Vumbura review
A lovely little camp situated amongst the water reeds.
The staff were warm and friendly and the guides are very knowledgeable.
I never got tired of travelling up and down the Hippo Highways. Taking a mokoro boat trip is a good way to relax after 4 days of drives.
A James Bond reception and great game.
Our James Bond arrival: Land Rover driven through a channel, 12 seater aircraft, helicopter and high speed boat drive - to arrive to singing staff and a boma, set the tone.
To follow it, the next day, with buffalo, cheetah and lion wasn't too shoddy either.
Expert Africa comments
This traveller has put some great pictures from his trip to Little Vumbura on Flickr – and they're well worth a visit. Click here to see them.
Beautiful camp in a watery setting
This was easily the most beautiful camp in terms of its design and setting. The room was bigger than other camps, with a giant walk-in mosquito net that allowed you to move around the bed and still be protected. The food was average, with great afternoon teas.
Adelaide on the staff was simply wonderful, and a real asset to the camp. Activities included a motor boat trip, a mokoro trip and day drives. No game really came through the camp. The camp is set in the lagoon, and you are taken by motor boat whenever you go on a game drive, which is a wonderful way to start and end the day.
Our guide was delightful and made a big effort to make our experience memorable. His tales of elephant encounters were brilliant, if not for the fainthearted! We saw lions at the kill, chasing off vultures (on one occasion knocking one to the ground); sable antelope; huge herds of elephant; another pride of lion huntng buffalo at dusk; a leopard; and, on the mokoro trip, close up sightings of painted reed frogs (beautiful), fish spiders and dragonflies hunting and killing on the wing.
Again, overall, a superb stay at a camp not quite as abundant in game as the others, but with a particular atmosphere and serenity.
a magical place
Our 3 night stay at Little Vumbura, after 2 1/2 weeks in Namibia, was the last stop of our trip, and it did not disappoint.
We saw more elephants on the drive between the airstrip and the camp than we'd seen in the previous 2 1/2 weeks, and the short boat ride after the drive is a great way to get to the camp.
The staff are very warm and friendly, the service is excellent, and the food was excellent. The tents are large and comfortable, with the possibility of game viewing from the patio (elephants do visit the island!).
Game viewing was superb, though as always, there is a great deal of luck involved. For example, the morning our guide found a pack of wild dogs, we had elected to do a bush walk (which was rather uneventful, as it turns out). We did hear from others that game viewing tends to be better at other camps (Mombo, for example, and areas closer to Chobe), but we were very happy where we were.
our place in the wilderness
Transfers from Chitabe were very good. It was lovely to arrive by boat at the camp. The whole place had an immediate charm. Lovely tent and very clean. I have no idea why but you really felt you were far from anywhere - delightful.
Very good variety of activity- mokoro, boat, walking and game drives - each of which we enjoyed. The mokoro trip the morning of out departure home was just so relaxing.
It was nice to have one meal when you were left to yourselves (if that is what you wanted).
Food good but is an area which could be improved in terms of variety and choice.
Our guide was young and enthusiastic and there was plenty of game in this area. I never anticipated elephants shifting the tent or waking me in the night by beating their trunks on the roof for the leaves........fascinating to us, but I know some people were worried.
Helpfully the camp had already confirmed our flights before we asked.
Lovely setting
The camp is in a lovely setting and the bird life around the camp was excellent but there seemed to be relatively little on the waterways. Although we saw some interesting lion behaviour on the 4x4 outing (tree climbing lions!), we really did not see much at all on the waterbased activites.
It is possible that this may have been due to the exceptionally high water levels this year. Quality of guiding a bit mixed (we had several different guides during our stay)


text: From 18 September, Tullie House opens a new exhibition celebrating the most innovative and challenging work currently being produced by contemporary artists in Cumbria. Much of the work being produced in Cumbria, whilst celebrated outside the region, is overlooked within it. Sedition has been designed to address this situation, to give a more representative picture of contemporary art practice in ...[Read More]