text:
Dads in Rwanda
If the tiny Eastern African nation of Rwanda makes it into the media it is usually for all the wrong reasons. Former Father & Child secretary Kerry Frame, however, has fallen in love with the country and has made several trips already to help with community and business development, probably being responsible for the first Father & Child cap ever to make it onto the continent. In this article he reflects on fatherhood in Rwanda.
Over the past 3 years, I have had the privilege to travel to Rwanda twice – once in 2010 and again in 2011. I have also had the opportunity to share in decisions on the Board for Father and Child as the Secretary for 2009-2011. I am a dad myself, to two children, a son aged five and a daughter aged eight. I have been married for 12 years now.
This sets the scene for considering life as a dad in Rwanda. It was actually my third trip in total, with the first being in 2002 with my wife. Even then I discovered the importance of father figures to many Rwandans. I explored this further in 2010, and again in 2011. Each trip has been about 2-3 weeks in duration.
In this article, I want to share some accounts relating to fatherhood while I was in Rwanda. I hope these will be an encouragement. As a quick background, if you are not aware, Rwanda experienced a major genocide in 1994, where over 800,000 people were killed. This left many young children orphans – this is reflected in my stories below.
My first story is about J. My friend J lost both his parents in the genocide. He is now 23 years old, and has taken on the 'father' role amongst his own family consisting of two other sisters. J is hard working and currently studying at university to improve his education so that he can better provide for his own family. The most significant part of this story is that J has had no father himself. I have had many discussions with J about his education and encouraged him in his positive future plans. I have involved others from different countries to help support J through email communication. Since my first contact with J in 2010, I have seen him grow and develop, and becoming more confident.
My second story is about Mr A. He is a security watchman for a guest house in Rwanda and also helps with various tasks including general maintenance. It was obvious to me in 2010 how dedicated he was to his family. I was challenged by his story where he told me last year, just before I left, how "madame" (his wife) had lost a child during pregnancy due to illness. He was quite upset and I felt helpless in his situation. I was delighted to meet him again a year later, see him happy and still very much dedicated to his family, and I ended up giving him a Father & Child cap (picture).
These are just two cases of fathers being dedicated to their families I learnt of during my visits in Rwanda. It is clear to me that families are very important to the Rwandan people.
My last story or account is related to the impact of the sexual violence in Rwanda. For two days, I assisted in the writing of a proposal that would be presented to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) outside of Rwanda to further help both men and women in this area. My role was to assist in the English part of the report, writing it to be understandable to those people reading it that live in countries like New Zealand or maybe even throughout Europe. Through an intensive discussion with four other Rwandans over two days, the proposal took shape, and we were able to draft together a format that could be presented to other parties. For me, the proposal was not the most significant part, rather the process of discussion and the learning of issues relating to culture, genocide, political and socio-economic issues. There are significant challenges for both men and women in Rwanda around equality. There is a lack of systems to support and the purpose of our meeting was to try and create awareness for change in this area. This issue will require a large number of resources and will need the right people to move it forward. It was a pleasure to assist in the writing of the proposal. I will remain in contact with those in Rwanda who will be working further on this project.
Next: Young Musicians


text:
We would also like to thank our amazing sponsors. Without them this would not be possible:
All Shows are at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm
The Spotlight Series is an annual fundraiser for the Largo Lions Club, in it's 24th season for 2020. We'd like to say thank you to all who come out to enjoy our spectacular shows, your participation is greatly appreciated and helps the Largo Lions Club to assist those with sight problems. All proceeds from these events go directly to our volunteer projects, including sight conservation, eye operations and glasses, and guide dogs.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Welcome, Families!We appreciate that you have an interest in your student's college search and so we have collected here for you some of the most commonly requested information about Bard College. Among the information you will find are quick links to the common curriculum, student affairs, and residence life. Parent Testimonials offer the parent perspective, while FAQs provide concise answers.
The Value of Liberal Education
Bard College President Leon Botstein in Conversation with Fareed Zakaria of CNN
Bard College president Leon Botstein and CNN's Fareed Zakaria consider the question: what is the value of a liberal arts education today? These two astute commentators on education and its role in society engage in a discussion moderated by Sam Tanenhaus, former editor of the New York Times Book Review.


text:
Analyzing video links...
Oops! The link fails to be detected. Please paste a valid link.
Tip for Download:
Choose a resolution/quality, then click DOWNLOAD to directly save to your PC.
If a new window pops up, press "CTRL + S", OR right click to the video and choose "Save Video As".
Tip: Paste a video address, and click Download to download videos to MP3 and MP4 off 1000+ supported websites.
to bring us together! We're waiting for you on Facebook & Twitter. Our friendship is probably born at this moment.
Please log in your Facebook if needed.
This Twitter video downloader com is the most reliable and resourceful online video/audio downloader. Its powerful technology allows you to download from more than two hundred video websites. Be it YouTube, HBO, Khan Academy or MTV, you can download and save the MP4 or MP3 files into your computer or mobile phone, and enjoy them anytime you want.
Are you tired of the complicated methods to download the music and video, and all kinds of limitations? YouTuFab provides you with the professional online downloading service with no extra fuss. Even if you are not familiar with PC or mobile phone, this Twitter video downloader com will help save your favorite video or music to your device with only a few mouth clicks.
When you download online video or music with YouTuFab, this Twitter free download video tool can download the information of the video or music such as its cover, title, duration and resolution info, so that you do not need to rename the video or song, or run other programs to download the video/music info. You can enjoy the video or music right away after it is saved into your computer or mobile phone.
To help you extract video and song from websites, this Twitter free download video tool is designed to save you a lot of bandwidth while downloading your favorite videos and songs from online to your mobile devices like computer and cellphone. Our lightning-fast analyzing and downloading speed gives you the speed and bandwidth you need, and ensures smooth video and music downloading.
YouTuFab has always been updating its resolution solution to keep pace with the latest high quality videos. Its functions have been constantly progressing, and now this Twitter video downloader free is able to output MP4 of quality as high as 2160p, catering to users with different needs. Even if you want to download a video with lower definition, YouTuFab is also able to provide with other formats as 720p, 480p, 360p, and 240p and 144p.
In addition to this Twitter video downloader free, when you download online videos, DVDFab Video Downloader can download a playlist at VIP speed, and run multiple tasks all at the same time. For you to transfer the video format, DVDFab Video Converter is the expert in this. DVDFab YouTube to MP3 gives you the VIP speed to accelerate the YouTube video download and conversion.
As a popular online video converter, YouTuFab is one of the many programs that we have offered for you. This online video downloader Twitter is one of the latest and easiest online converter on the market. All you need is just a URL of the video you love, and a few seconds later, the link will be analyzed automatically for you, and the file format will be ready for you to choose. Or if you want to convert an online video with music clips, simply change the URL of the MV, and our page will analyze the link, and bring you to the download process.We help you solve your biggest tech challenges in converting online MP4 to MP3. We are comprised of more than 100 experts in technology, and are always ready to provide you with the latest and best tech solutions. Whenever you need this online video downloader Twitter, you are always welcome to check out our amazing products any time.
A: This Twitter video downloader com has been working to provide you with the easiest and best user experience when you download your favorite files. That is why we have set the download file location in your web browser's default download folder. If you are using iPhone safari to download the file, there is no download folder on iPhone or iPad, your device will put your download file to related apps based on format. Or your device allows you to save the file to iCloud drive or other cloud service providers.
A: When you download video or music free with YouTuFab, there is no specific limit on the download file size. To convert online videos, we do recommend you to share with your friends via social media about this Twitter video downloader com, and enjoy its functions better.
A: This Twitter free download video tool is compatible with 99% of the web browsers on the market. But some users may still find the window opens a new page and plays the video or music after clicking on file format. You can download from the new page by clicking on Download. Or right clicking on the playback control bar and choose Save As. Other situations are the pop-up windows. If you see this, please allow it to start downloading. If you see no window prompt, then you will need to allow the pop-up window from advanced settings of the browser.
A: This Twitter free download video tool is made to offer free download service for video and music fans, and you can download as many files as you like all at the same time. When you download the file, just open multiple YouTuFab pages at the same time, and paste the video or music link into each input box, click Download and choose the format you want, and the files will start downloading to your device at the same time.
A: This powerful Twitter video downloader free can allow you to save the video default as MP3 or MP4. Most of the computers and mobile phones support this format of video. But if unfortunately you find your device unable to play the video, please convert the MP4 format to the ones that are compatible with your device. We recommend DVDFab Video Converter. It can transfer 3GP, ASF, AVI, FLV, M2TS, MOV, MP4, M4V, MPEG, DAT, MKV, RMVB, RM, TS, VOB and WMV into 3D videos (3D MKV.H.265, 3D MP4.H.265 3D MP4.4K, 3D MKV.4K, 3D AVI, 3D MP4, 3D WMV, 3D MKV, 3D M2TS, 3DTS, etc.), 2D videos (MP4.H.265, MKV.265, MP4.4K, MKV.4K, MP4 Passthrough, MKV Passthrough, MP4, FLV, MKV, AVI, WMV, M2TS, TS) and audios (MP3, MP4, M4A, WMA, WAV, AAC, AC3, DTS, etc.).
A: We all know how important the sound quality matters to music fans. That is why this Twitter video downloader free retains the sound quality as the same as the original music. We advise you to use DVDFab YouTube to MP3 to download YouTube musics. It downloads the music cover, artist, title and other information together with the music. So when you play the MP3 files on your mobile phone, all the information will be shown.


text:
If Santa Claus did not leave you the gift you craved most at Christmas, we may have discovered why: a couple of days ago, an elderly couple was arrested in Nebraska by the local police, who discovered that the wild amount of Christmas gifts they were carrying in his vehicle (and that they planned to deliver to his friends and family in Vermont and Boston) were actually 27 kilos of marijuana.
Patrick Jiron, 80, and Bárbara Jiron, 83, were on their way to the US East Coast from California to visit their families during the holidays when they were stopped by agents from York County, Nebraska. The agents, after perceiving a strong smell of cannabis and receiving consent for a thorough search, examined the car to discover marijuana and several containers of concentrated THC, with a value of USD $ 300,000, as explained by Lt. Paul Vrbka.
"They did not resist arrest, and they also explained that all marijuana were Christmas gifts for family and friends."
Mr. Jiron faces charges for felonies for possession of marijuana with the intent to sell, and for lacking drug tax stamps for marijuana. Apparently, in Nebraska, the law requires marijuana traffickers to buy drug tax stamps to prove that the state's relevant taxes have been paid. WTF.
The old man was released from jail although he must appear before the law in a short time, because the weed is not legal in Nebraska, neither for medical nor recreational uses. We are sorry for your family and friends, whose Christmas was probably a little sadder without this expected gift.


text:
Kellenberg girls come up short in Class A final
Lindsey Ehrhardt certainly has made a name for herself.
It's printed on three different rosters at Kellenberg. And because she is a three-sport athlete -- one who nets many goals in lacrosse, finds the back of the net in soccer and often hits nothing but net in basketball -- her name also is printed in many boxscores.
But after Kellenberg fell to Nazareth, 68-59, in the CHSAA Class A state championship game Saturday night at Archbishop Molloy, she was most proud of helping make the name on the front of her jersey more familiar.
"We got to the state championship game two straight years and started to build up the name of Kellenberg," said Ehrhardt, who had 20 points. "I think the future is bright for this program."
The Firebirds, who led by 15 in the first half, held a 52-51 lead with 4:31 remaining after Ehrhardt sent an outlet pass downcourt to Keira Vassallo for a layup. But Nazareth's Shalix Hines, who scored 22 of her 24 points in the second half, converted a three-point play and hit a corner three-pointer during a 13-2 run that opened a 64-54 lead.
"We had a couple of mental lapses defensively and offensively," Ehrhardt said. "We had one too many breakdowns. But we fought hard."
Hard enough to build a comfortable lead at one point.
Ehrhardt delivered a cross-court pass to Vassallo, who hit the long two to open a 24-13 lead midway through the second quarter. Erin Sullivan then converted a layup and scored in the post to increase the lead to 15. Ehrhardt hit a pull-up jumper off the glass at the buzzer to send the Firebirds into the half up 35-23.
But Hines scored 14 points in the third, including a step-back three-pointer with 56 seconds left to pull Nazareth within 48-45 heading into the fourth.
"We didn't really adjust to their pressure," Kellenberg coach Matt Kirk said. "We were expecting them to start trapping and pressing. But we started to play hot potato with the basketball."
Niya Johnson scored 10 of her 22 points in the fourth for Nazareth (9-19). Morgan Staab had 11 points and Caitlyn Staab added nine for Kellenberg (19-10), which lost by three in the state final last season.
"We gave it our hardest, we just didn't get the outcome we wanted," Caitlyn Staab said. "But I couldn't have asked for a better two seasons."
Morgan Staab and point guard Kate Calabro (seven points) will be the focal points next season with the departure of Ehrhardt, who will play lacrosse at Loyola, and Caitlyn Stabb, who will play basketball at Mount St. Mary's University.
Does Caitlyn have any advice for her younger sister Morgan?
"Just play tough, play hard, and do what I taught you," she said with a laugh.
Added Kirk: "We have juniors that have been learning from this special group of seniors. I wouldn't be surprised if you see us back here next season. But there is no replacing Caitlyn Staab and Lindsey Ehrhardt."
Names that won't be forgotten.
We're revamping our Comments section. Learn more and share your input.


text:
- Solutions
- Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Business Solutions
- Platform
- Discover
Michael Rasmussen
Analyst, GRC2020
Automate your processes and approvals using the automated workflow designer to improve efficiencies.
Implement your desired business logic from simple rules to complex formulae and automatically route your decision flow through drag and drop workflows.
Create tailored and custom email and SMS notifications. Extend the capability through APIs, providing you with the ability to automate your communications.
Origin Energy


text:
More and more, it seems that e-commerce is the way of the future. People today prefer shopping online, and would rather have the ease that online stores offer.
If you run an e-commerce store, that's great news. But this begs the question: how do you ensure you're keeping track of sales, purchases and profits and loss so you have a clear record come tax time?
With a variety of bookkeeping apps on the market, you can rest easy. You'll enter information in as you receive it, getting the chance to review numbers on a month-to-month basis, or more often if you desire.
Learn more about the seven best apps for bookkeeping. Make your life and business easier and always have a clear idea of how well your company performs.
1. Quickbooks Ranks One of the Best Bookkeeping Apps
With the wide variety of e-commerce accounting software out there, Quickbooks remains a popular choice for companies of all sizes. Quickbooks allows business owners to make use of cloud accounting, which is easier than keeping several files in your office.
With Quickbooks, you can:
- Keep track of inventory
- Pay bills
- Track finances from various payment systems
- Manage payroll
If you're planning to grow your small business into something larger, investing in Quickbooks offers you a helpful return for your money, especially since there's no need to upgrade later. Because you can track where payments come from, you'll know what choices your customers prefer the most.
Finally, there's no need to buy software for different computers. If you simply need to log in from various devices, Quickbooks makes it easy to do so.
2. Let Taxjar Make it Easy to Calculate Taxes All Over the Country
In an effort to make sure everyone pays sales tax, tax laws have changed.
Back in the day before the boom of e-commerce, people only paid taxes on an item if they lived in the state the item was shipping from. Thanks to the advent of Amazon laws, folks usually pay state sales tax no matter where they live or where they're buying from.
Because of this, you need to ensure you're calculating the right sales tax and keeping records of where you're sending items. Taxjar allows you to keep accurate records, file in all the states you're mailing items to, and know exactly what's due and where.
You can log in and find out what taxes are due when the due date is, and how much you'll need to pay. This helps you remember to pay everything in a timely manner, without having several different dates in your planner.
This works with your current shopping cart software, so there's less integration to worry about. Taxjar shows what you're currently collecting in taxes from customers, and lets you know the correct amount you need to collect to properly pay state taxes.
3. For a User-Friendly Experience, Try Freshbooks
Freshbooks provides a great experience for novice business owners and those who've been in the game for a long time. Freshbooks was created for freelancers who needed to keep track of and issue invoices, but it works just as well for the seasoned business professional.
The dashboard on Freshbooks remains a favorite feature of many small business owners, allowing them to see the information they need at a moment's glance. If you have customers that operate on a subscription box, using Freshbooks allows you to bill people with a recurring subscription option.
You can enjoy creating and reviewing automatic reports that examine your monthly profits and losses, and see possible tax calculations. You can take advantage of the app on both IOS and Android devices, so you're covered no matter what phone you currently use.
Freshbooks knows that because they're working with small businesses, it's important to keep prices low. You'll enjoy payments of under $20 a month while keeping your business growing strong.
No matter what's going on in your business or what phase you're in, this is a great opportunity to learn bookkeeping through an easy and informative app.
Put your accounting on autopilot
Schedule a free consultation today.
4. Zoho Offers Online Ease of Bookkeeping
Zoho offers an online suite of products to help e-commerce business owners track and manage the money they make and spend. With the popularity of its online component, Zoho offers an app on IOS, giving you the chance to do your bookkeeping wherever you are.
With Zoho you'll enjoy helpful features such as:
- Sending invoices
- Accepting payments
- Track expenses
- Connect Zoho to your bank account
By connecting your bank with Zoho, you can direct payments into your business checking account and see them when they come through. Although dealing with e-commerce can take a while to get the hang of, Zoho knows you're busy, and simplifies it as much as possible.
5. Feel Confident Using Intuit's TurboTax for Your Company Needs
Intuit's Turbo Tax is one of the oldest names around when it comes to tracking expenses, paying taxes and managing finances. If you're already using Quickbooks but want something just for your taxes, TurboTax integrates with it.
When working with numbers, it's easier to automate the process so you'll save time and worry about fewer mistakes.
If you have employees or contractors, you'll enjoy creating W-2s and 1099 forms on demand. For business owners that own more than one store, TurboTax allows you to file taxes for more than one business.
TurboTax helps you calculate how much you'll owe, including for various states. The software helps you figure out how much of an audit alert you'll trigger.
This is helpful in deciphering what to expect from the IRS when you file. If TurboTax shows an increased odds of triggering an audit, you can figure out what to expect and what's causing it.
This allows you to prevent future issues from occurring the next time you file taxes.
If you've never filed taxes or ran your own business, TurboTax understands. It walks you through everything with step-by-step directions, making you feel confident in your filing.
6. Xero Offers Accounting Help
If none of the above options seem like they'll fit your business but you're still in need of a business account app, Xero is here to save the day. Featuring sleek design and a focus on being user-friendly, Xero offers other benefits.
You'll find features that include:
- Inventory tracking
- Order Tracking
- Sales tax calculation
Xero has a solid reputation among CPAs. If you ever decide to outsource your bookkeeping and taxes with a professional, they'll have no problem figuring out what to look for when taking a peek in your Xero.
Despite the professional production and quality that sets Xero apart from the competition, you'll pay less than $10 a month to get the help you need. If you want to stick with a program you'll use no matter how big you grow your business, Xero can help you every step of the way.
7. Meet Kashoo, the New Kid on the Block
Sometimes it's overwhelming to use software designed for the big players. You'd rather focus on a company who understands what it's like to be the little guy just starting out.
Kashoo was built with your company in mind or at least a small business that needs tax and accounting help. Kashoo allows you to see where your business is at with helpful features that include a real-time look at profit, loss and taxes associated with your company.
If you've never taken a bookkeeping class in your life, don't stress. Kashoo understands that not everyone knows all the terms and technical speak associated with accounting and taxes, and won't use them with you unless it's absolutely required.
While you're growing your business, you're learning the ins and outs of what to do and how to operate. Thanks to Kashoo, you can balance your books, stay updated on taxes and gain hands-on learning with accounting.
Discover More
It doesn't matter if you're just getting started in your e-commerce business or you've been around for a long time. Having the right bookkeeping apps is important so you can see what's going on.
Rather than trying out several programs and spending time figuring out what you like and what you can do without, we've picked seven of the best to help you succeed in running an online business.
If you'd rather have someone with experience help you with bookkeeping to let you focus on what you do best, ScaleFactor can help. Contact us, and find out how we can help both you and your company.


text:
India's Supreme Court has refused to grant telecoms companies further time to pay billions of dollars in additional revenues to the government. The BBC's business reporter Arunoday Mukharji explains why this is a body blow to the entire industry.
India is one of the world's largest telecoms markets, but its main players have been facing a torrid time in recent years.
And now their woes have been added to, after the country's top court directed telecoms companies to pay $13bn (£9.9bn) by 17 March - further asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for not coughing up the money earlier.
For Vodafone-Idea - one of the country's biggest telecoms firms - the order comes during an especially difficult period. The company announced a sixth straight quarterly loss of $903m (£693m) this week, compared to a loss of $70m during the same period last year.
The situation is so bad, the company's chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla has gone on record to say the company will shut shop if they are not granted any relief from the government or courts.
Vodafone-Idea, along with competitor Airtel, had been seeking more time to pay their dues at a juncture when they are already burdened with dipping tariffs and mounting debt.
The question now is with a payment deadline of 17 March and no intervention from the government looking forthcoming, is this the end of the road for the company's India operation?
The UK-based telecoms company has been one of the oldest and largest players in the Indian market, and the impact of a shutdown is not insignificant. After all, it has more than 300m subscribers, and provides jobs for hundreds of thousands.
But its closure would likely have an adverse impact on the telecoms sector as a whole.
Image copyright Getty Images
Image caption India is one of the largest telecoms markets in the world
If Vodafone Idea does decide to exit the Indian market, the industry will effectively be turned into a duopoly, with the only players being India's Reliance Jio Infocomm and Bharti Airtel.
And Airtel is not in a very good place either, posting losses of nearly $3bn at the end of the last quarter and owing the government nearly $5bn in dues.
Jio, the newest entrant to the country's telecoms sector, is in a much happier place and is acknowledged to be responsible for completely changing the nature of the telecoms sector.
When it entered the market three years ago, the company slashed data prices and, in the process, managed to change what was essentially a voice market into a data market. This resulted in India ending up with the cheapest mobile data in the world and severely disrupting the business models of both Vodafone Idea and Airtel.
Since then, both companies have shed millions of subscribers. They have joint losses of more than $10bn and they are now haunted by the prospects of a massive pay-out in dues to the government within the next month.
Image copyright Getty Images
Image caption Vodafone Idea has more than 300 million subscribers in India
With more than 350m subscribers as of 2019, Jio looks most likely to benefit from a Vodafone exit. Experts have estimated that it could well double its earnings by 2022, potentially signing up more than 500m subscribers by then.
But what will this mean for India's price-sensitive consumers?
Possibly, not very good news.
Massive losses from both Vodafone and Airtel last quarter prompted all three firms to raise prices.
"Prices going up is not necessarily a bad thing - it would in fact be a good thing, because that is the only way to have some competition in this market," economist Vivek Kaul told the BBC earlier.
"This needs to happen for telecoms to survive and thrive in India."
But, whether that would result in a slowdown of India's massive telecoms growth rate, remains to be seen.
The battle over Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), has been a long and drawn out one.
In layman's terms this means that a certain proportion of revenues earned by telecoms companies needs to be shared with the government's department of telecoms.
Telecoms companies and the government had disagreed on the definition of adjusted gross revenue since 2005. The companies only wanted revenue from telecoms to be calculated in this figure, but the government wanted a much wider definition, including non-telecoms revenue like sale of assets and interest earned on deposits.
But recently, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the government, which meant that telecoms companies needed to pay authorities a further $12.5bn.


text:
- Detail
- Ingredients
- Reviews
This is our one and only blend made with certified organic ingredients. Our perfectly balanced mix of ingredients has been individually roasted at a very specific temperature and duration, to create a coffee alternative that tastes remarkably like a cup of fruity, earthy, lightly roasted coffee. THIS IS ALL static content, we cannot change it. it displays the same for all products because it's static
This will satisfy even our single-origin, craft coffee-loving friends. You can finally treat yo' self to a cup of coffee any time of day, without compromising sleep. It's tea, but it's coffee. It's herbal coffee.
Caffeine Level
None. Zero.
Roasted figs, chicory root, dandelion root, lemon peel, orange peel, and carob.
Mellow Energy
Stress Reducer
No Dairy
No Gluten
No MSG
No Refined Sugar
Mellow Rooster's blend is the perfect, carefully balanced combination of roasted fruits and roots that can be enjoyed by anyone, anytime.
Our blend is made with organic, fair-trade, plant-based ingredients that are naturally free of caffeine, GMO, gluten, processed sugar, dairy, MSG, chemicals, pesticides, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Black Mission Figs
A fruit that grows on the ficus tree, figs are an excellent source of fiber. They also contain a significant amount of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese. Because of these nutritional qualities, figs are often used to promote intestinal health and control blood pressure. They are also highly alkaline and support the body's pH balance. [1]
Chicory root
Chicory is a vegetable in the sunflower family with a rich history of being used to make coffee by the French and Creole. Chicory contains Vitamin A, fiber, and Vitamin C. The root is an excellent source of carotenes, which act as antioxidants and support the immune system. Chicory is also used to help combat insomnia. [2]
Dandelion root
Like chicory, dandelion belongs to the sunflower family. This herb boasts an extremely high level of nutrients, including its Vitamin A content, which surpasses that of carrots. Dandelion is also a significant source of vitamin C, riboflavin, vitamin B6, thiamin, calcium, copper, manganese, and iron. Known for its ability to promote liver health, dandelion may also help control weight and blood sugar. [3]
Lemon Peel
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. The fruit also contains a significant amount of flavonoids and limonene, which are known for their antioxidant and anticancer properties. [4] [5]
Orange Peel
Oranges are known for their excellent source of vitamin C. They are also high in flavonoids, which in combination with its nearly 100 percent recommended daily intake of vitamin C, make the fruit effective in supporting the immune system, eye health, and reproductive organs. Hesperidin, one of the orange's most noteworthy flavonoids, has been shown to lower blood pressure and display anti-inflammatory properties. [6]
Carob is a dark brown pea pod looking fruit that carries pulp and seeds. It has a sweet, chocolate/mocha flavor, which makes it a great healthy alternative for, well, chocolate. It's been used for its health benefits for over 4000 years dating back to ancient Greece. They come from the legume family, Fabaceae. It's a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Contains no caffeine, no gluten, and negligible amounts of fat and sugar.


text:
Dosha Books
Today's question comes from Crystal from the membership site:
Hi Melissa,
As far as I know I am a Pitta Kapha and this confuses me because I carry worry and anxiety with me daily.
I guess I am writing you to ask for a reliable resource on the Dosha's. I really feel that working with the doshas would benefit me right now
but I am still a bit confused about dosha's.
Thank You very kindly
I would recommend Deepak Chopra's book Perfect Health:
Perfect Health provides a complete step-by-step program of mind body medicine tailored to individual needs. A quiz identifies the reader's mind body type: thin, restless Vata; enterprising, efficient Pitta; tranquil, steady Kapha; or any combination of these three. This body type becomes the basis for a specific Ayurvedic program of diet, stress reduction, neuromuscular integration, exercise, and daily routines. The result is a total plan, tailor-made for each individual, to reestablish the body's essential balance with nature; to strengthen the mind body connection; and to use the power of quantum healing to transcend the ordinary limitations of disease and aging–in short, for achieving Perfect Health.
He also has an online quiz that you could take to determine your dosha:
Of course you can also check out our five free videos on Yoga and Ayurveda on Namaste Yoga as well 🙂
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Android | Email | RSS | More
Podcast (living-your-yoga-video): Play in new window | Download | Embed
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Android | Email | RSS


text:
The 3-step staff guide
Book An Event
Select Applicants
Book an event in one minute. Tell us when, where and how many staff you need.
Confirm Hours
What We Do
Receive applicants to your event within an hour of booking and notified by email in real time.
After your event, confirm hours and leave reviews for each staff member. Invoices are generated instantly and sent to your accounting team.
We are an online staffing platform quickly becoming the preferred way of securing qualified staff for a wide range of events.
Our platform is transparent, flexible, and easy to use. In a total of ten minutes broken up into 3-steps, you can have your event posted, filled, and confirmed.
Unlike staffing agencies that send anyone they have to your event, we've built an online platform that allows you to hand pick vetted, reviewed and accountable staff on demand. Our taski team is made up of passionate individuals excited to work one-off events! Check out our walkthrough below!
Trusted By Properties From:
Video Overview:
Video Overview:
Video Overview:
Helpful info for your event description:
Event details
Honorary mentions:
Vetting Process
Candidates on our platform are thoroughly vetted to ensure that you as a hotel receive qualified staff at every event. Each tasker begins their application by creating a profile wherein they detail their skills and experience as well as attach a resume, their certifications (such as Serving It Right,Smart Serve), a photo, and a brief bio.
If the tasker presents well, they are interviewed by taski's community manager and assessed on: experience level, professionalism, eligibility to work in Canada and proper certifications. Once the interview stage is complete, successful taskers undertake a thorough orientation to become familiar with taski's community guidelines.
In order to qualify as a tasker, we require candidates have at least two years of experience at an established restaurant or hospitality related business. In addition, we look for good communication skills, professionalism and a personable demeanor throughout the interview process.
Taski is continuously ensuring that only the best staff can qualify for your hotel. Although the initial vetting process is quite thorough, hotels always have the option to create a review after working with each tasker; accountability is baked in to the platform. If you are seeking specific attributes in a tasker, you may do so easily by reviewing feedback from other hotels and communicating directly with prospective staff through the in-house email relay system.
Workers Compensation
Have Questions?
All staff on taski are covered by Workers Compensation in each provinces and states.
Staff Payout
You Pay
No commitment, no signup fee, no membership cost.
Simple pricing, just pay as you go.
Admin Fees + PayrollTaxes
Lindsey K.
Reach out to us on the bottom right of your taski feed!
©2018 Taski, All Rights Reserved


text:
For many homeowners, buying a high-quality vacuum cleaner is a good investment. Regular cleaning and maintenance will make your vacuum perform efficiently. To maximize its potential, read the following tips on how to clean vacuum cleaner.
The Vacuum Cleaner
A vacuum cleaner is a cleaning device that removes dust, dirt and other pollutants easily. Using this electronic device can give you the following benefits:
It makes the cleaning process well-organized.
This device can help you make a plan in cleaning your home/establishment. It is easier to follow your cleaning schedule when you have a reliable device.
It saves time, money, and effort.
An efficient vacuum cleaner can do all the cleaning process in a short period of time. It also requires less effort compared to manual cleaning.
It eliminates the risk of acquiring air-borne diseases.
Vacuum cleaners help improve the air quality in your home. Some vacuum cleaners have HEPA filters. These trap the fine particles that may trigger asthma and allergy symptoms.
Why do you need to clean your vacuum cleaner?
Your vacuum cleaner needs proper cleaning and maintenance to:
Function properly. Clean your device on a regular basis. Since it is a valuable investment, make sure it is working efficiently.
Save money. Failure to clean your vacuum cleaner might lead to more serious damages. Cleaning your device helps eliminate costly repair services.
Eliminate bad odors. If your machine is producing a bad smell, suspect that there's a blockage in the system. This may also indicate faulty electrical cords.
Avoid replacement. Buying a new vacuum cleaning device can cost a lot of money. Regular cleaning and maintenance can keep your unit in optimal condition.
How to clean a vacuum cleaner?
Follow these steps when cleaning your vacuum cleaning machine:
1. Check and read the user manual.
There are different types of vacuum cleaners in the market. Make it a habit to check the user's guide when performing different machine operations.
2. Unplug the vacuum.
It is important to unplug the machine during cleanup to prevent electric shock. This will also help protect the cord and the motor.
3. Remove the replaceable and washable parts of the machine.
- Remove the canister. This will help you reach the inside parts of the vacuum.
- Remove specialized attachments – a dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice tool, etc.
- Remove the motor filters – pre and post-motor filters, HEPA filter. Note: The HEPA filter is not washable.
- Break down other removable parts.
4. Empty and clean the canister or vacuum bag.
- Open the bag.
- Take out all the accumulated dust and dirt. Put them into a garbage can.
- Close the bag and shake it out. You may also whack it against a hard surface.
- Reopen the bag and remove the excess dirt.
- Set it aside.
5. Get a microfiber cloth and soak it in vinegar mix or all-purpose cleaner.
Microfiber cloth is more hygienic compared to ordinary cloth. They are also a good substitute for expensive and harmful cleaning detergents. After soaking, squeeze the cloth to remove the excess water.
6. Wipe down the reachable parts of the vacuum.
- Start with the canister. Wipe down the inside and outside part of the vacuum bag. You can also wash the canister using warm soapy water (optional).
- Wipe down other parts of the vacuum – cord, wand, and attachments.
- Do not wipe the plug and other electrified components.
7. Clean and wash the filters.
Cleaning the filters is highly essential in vacuum maintenance. Dirty filters produce unnecessary odors and noise. Trapped dirt may lead to clogging and malfunctioning motor and parts. When cleaning and washing filters, follow these tips:
- Make sure you know if your filters are washable or not. Refer to the user manual.
- Wash the filters under running water.
- Brush the filters. Use a clean and soft brush in brushing. You may use your old toothbrush as a substitute.
- Soak them into a pail of water for 14-20 minutes. Do not use soap.
- Rinse them using warm water.
- Repeat brushing until fully clean.
- Let them dry overnight. If possible, bring them outside and dry under direct sunlight.
8. Clean the beater bar or roller brush.
- Remove the base plate to clean the beater bar. Use Phillips screwdriver to unscrew and expose the roller brush.
- Pop out the beater bar. If it doesn't pop out easily, rotate it a number of times until it slides out.
- Lay down some old newspaper on your working area to collect all dirt and dust.
- Using scissors, cut and remove any threads or hair that are stuck in the bristles. Wear protective hand gloves.
- Disinfect the beater bar using a cotton ball soaked in alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Pay more attention to parts that come into contact with the floor.
- Do not rub the cotton swab on rubber parts.
- Spin the roller brush and continue wiping/disinfecting.
9. Clean the hose.
To clean the hose, do the following:
- Get a wire hanger and straighten it out. Make a slight curve at one end of the wire.
- Put it inside the hose and begin cleaning. Remove clogged dirt using the curved end.
- Dust the inside of the hose using an improvised broom. Be careful when doing this step.
- Disinfect the inner and outer parts of the hose with a vinegar solution. Tape a cotton ball at the end of the improvised broom.
- Rub the inside part of the hose using the taped cotton ball.
- Rub the outside part using a separate cotton ball soaked in a vinegar solution. You can do it using your bare hand.
- Let it (the hose) dry for one whole day.
10. Reassemble the clean parts and accessories.
Make sure they are all completely clean and dry. After reassembling, plug the machine into a power outlet and test if it's functioning.
A well-functioning vacuum cleaner can make your cleaning tasks fast and enjoyable. You need to ensure all parts of your machine are clean and clogged-free.
Learning the right ways on how to clean vacuum cleaner is not a difficult task. Use the instructions provided above as your guide in cleaning your machine. Happy cleaning!
Hello there, and welcome to my vacuum cleaner blog! Here you will find the latest product reviews, the best home organization tips, clever cleaning hacks, and so much more. If you stick around, I think you will find the answers to the questions you've been looking for.
I have extensive industry knowledge of the most advanced vacuum cleaners out there and I can give you the most accurate and up-to-date information. I am committed to bringing you the best tips, the most in-depth reviews, and the most innovative home tips to get your house in tip-top shape in no time! Happy cleaning!


text:
Garbage Pickup in Rutland, VT
From the inner city to the surrounding suburbs, selecting proper garbage pickup in Rutland, VT and a company to handle it is important, not only for you, but your neighbors as well. This is why Casella provides residents with professional waste control and garbage pickup in Rutland, VT that works for them and is eco-friendly. Contact Casella now to receive a price quote on our garbage pickup in Rutland, VT.
Garbage Pickup in Rutland, VT Made Easy
Our services and garbage pickup in Rutland, VT works with your schedule because we work with you to create a personalized routine that meets your waste control needs. Casella offers weekly pickups or customized waste and recycling programs to make waste control easier. It's a better way to get accurate garbage pickup in Rutland, VT.
For our business customers, Casella provides a wide selection of services that may be required including reliable and environmentally safe garbage pickup in Rutland, VT. If you are a small business owner, Casella is ready to meet your tailored needs regarding garbage pickup in Rutland, VT-no matter the scale of your business.
Ready to get started? Simply fill out our online form or call us today at 802-282-4150 to find out more.
Casella also offers temporary services ideal for waste collection as a result of construction, remodeling, house and basement clean-outs, special events or any other short-term project. Over the last 40 years, we have provided outstanding service; not only for our customers, but for the environment and the communities in which we work and live. We also strive to be responsible community members and work to protect environmental resources while also developing our people, all the while doing our utmost to improve where we live and work.
- Customizable container sizes to fit your job.
- Dependable, on-time pick up and delivery.
- Safe, environmentally responsible service.


text:
We all should realize that the federal estate tax is in a state of flux. The current rules, with the generous $5 million individual exemption ($10 million for a couple), expire at the end of 2012. Last month, the Treasury Department released the "General Explanations of the Administration's Fiscal Year 2012 Revenue Proposals," also known as the "Greenbook." The Greenbook reveals that the Obama Administration intends to make some big estate tax changes.
- Return the Gift, Estate, and Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) taxes to 2009 levels. The Greenbook proposes that in 2013 the exemptions return to $3.5 million for the estate tax, $1 million for the gift tax, and slightly over $1 million (reflecting inflation adjustments since 1999) for the generation skipping transfer ("GST") tax.
- Make portability permanent. Portability is the ability of the first spouse's estate exemptions to be passed on to the surviving spouse, essentially doubling the estate exemptions for couples while cutting down on the stress of so many trusts.
- Limitations on the use of valuation discounts. Although the IRS has long had defenses in place against attempts to reduce the value of the taxable portion of an estate, Chapter 14 of the tax code, the effectiveness of these defenses have been challenged in a number of ways and part of the proposal is to strengthen Chapter 14 by significantly hampering any effort to receive a valuation discount.
- Impose a ten-year minimum term on GRATs. Grantor retained annuity trusts ("GRATs") have become extremely popular estate planning vehicles over the past several years. Among other reasons, they are relatively low cost to implement, are fairly low risk, and can transfer significant amounts of wealth to lower generations with virtually no estate or gift tax, often without using any of the transferor's exemption. One requirement for a successful GRAT, however, is that the grantor must survive the term, otherwise the trust "fails." To minimize risk, estate lawyers usually use a series of short-term (e.g., three-year) GRATs in their planning. The proposal is to require a term of no less than 10 years. This proposal would apply to GRATs created after the date of enactment, and has been made several times in the past.
- Limiting the capacity of Dynasty Trusts. Under current law in many states, a Dynasty Trust can be established to transfer wealth across generations and exist for that purpose "in perpetuity." The Obama proposal would provide that, on the 90th anniversary of the creation of a trust, the Generation-Skipping Tax (GST) exclusion allotted to the trust would terminate. This proposal would apply to trusts created after enactment, and to the portion of a pre-existing trust attributable to additions made after the date.
Many of these proposals have been made before, and most arelikely to face stiff opposition.
In addition, Massachusetts will assess a state tax on estates over $1 million. Without proper planning a married couple will have only $1 million between them. See a lawer to be sure that you and your spouse get the $2 million exemption available to you.
Also, Massachusetts clients and taxpayers need to watch out for estate plans created based on maximum federal applicable exclusion planning, common for many estate plans prior to 2003. Now with the $5 million federal exempt amount, there could be a COMPLETELY AVOIDABLE Massachusetts estate tax triggered at the first death. The cost to your spouse and family could be as much as $400,000 in unnecessary estate taxes.
The point of all of this is that the "death tax" is not dead. The current law, with its generous exemptions, could be the calm before the storm. A wise planner would move sooner rather than later to preserve estate assets for future generations.
You can learn more about comprehensive estate planning by attending one of our Trust, Estate & Asset Protection Workshops and also by downloading our Unique Self-Guided 19-Point Trust, Estate & Asset Protection Legal Guide on our website. Once you become a client, we have a Lifetime Protection Program to ensure that your planning stays up to date with the changes in law, fincial, health and family situations.


text:
This Christmastide Puncher has been my go-to holiday liquid for 10+ age! It's so tasteful and dead festive, and the whole pedigree loves it! Positive it exclusive takes transactions to variety.
It real upright has the most yummy fuse of flavors. The compounding did seem quaint to me at freshman with coloured ale, cranberries, herb succus and almond acquire but belief me it honorable entireness
I used to make a slightly smaller version of this recipe but I've listed what perfectly fits in my drink dispenser, which is enough to serve to a small crowd.
But you can easily bump it down to the 2 liter version if you don't need that much and don't want to purchase two bottles of soda .
- Ice
- 3 liters ginger ale
- 3 cups pineapple juice
- 1 Tbsp almond extract
- 2 fresh limes, sliced (optional)
- 1 12 oz. bag fresh cranberries (optional)
- 6 cups cranberry juice or pomegranate cranberry juice
- Pour pomegranate humour, pineapple juice, and almond extract into a voluminous honor dispenser and mix. Crowd in colored ale and make it one quick budge.
- Add in cranberries, ice and seasoner ale. Help within a few hours for finest results as it give turn to go unfolded.
- This is not 100% cranberry humor, it is 100% humour but it has a amalgamate of additional juices in it such as vine, apple, pear. 100% cranberry humour would be much too unpleasant here. Use something like Oceanspray.


text:
- $30,000 price
- 587441 mls id
- Lot Size: 0.979 acres
- Status: Active
Nearly ONE acre lot! Bring Your Own Builder! Experience luxurious living in a quiet suburban community nestled on the edge of Pleasant Hill, sharing amenities of Altoona and Des Moines. Arbor Lake is master planned around a beautiful Lake and wildlife to allow for walk-out lots, secluded wooded lots and cul-de-sac lots. Homes start at the entry level to executive homes. 5 year graduated tax abatement, special financing, historically low interest rates and reasonable lot prices make home building an affordable choice. Families boast of the SOUTHEAST POLK SCHOOL DISTRICT showcasing "State of the Art" new High School, Jr High, 6th Grade Center and 8 Elementaries. This community is located within minutes of Prairie Meadows Race Track & Casino, Adventureland Amusement & Water Park. Residents enjoy the peaceful country surroundings without sacrificing big city conveniences. Only minutes from downtown Des Moines & I80/I-235. Come Home to Arbor Lake!
- Site Link
- Style Other
Courtesy of: Pennie Carroll & Associates
Office Phone: 5154908025
Listing Agent: Pennie Carroll
Updated: 31st March, 2020 5:22 AM.
5689 Arbor Lake Drive Pleasant Hill, IA


text:
getfitformula coaching service
Why the GetFitFormula Coaching Service?
Let's start at the end with the future you. Future you has no more doubts, questions, or feelings of helplessness when it comes to everything health & fitness. You're not perfect but nobody else is. What you are however, is in control of your body.
That means you know exactly what to do in order to reach your next goal. Whether it be to lose some body fat, hit a new PR on the bench press, train for a marathon, or just be able to play with your kids at the park without getting winded. You can plan for it and know that you can follow through.
This future you needs the current you to start making different choices. Getting started can be the hardest part and that's what the GetFitFormula Coaching Service is for. It's a customized, one-on-one guided implementation of your very own GetFitFormula.
No more doubts or questions on what do next - we will have a plan laid out just for you at all times and your coach will be with you along the way.
How does the coaching service work?
The GetFitFormula Coaching Service is a 12-week program broken down into 3 phases:
Build up the process of tracking your daily habits & activities in each area of the GetFitFormula
Get a better understanding of the fundamentals in each area - no fads, gimmicks, or hacks - we'll stick with the basics
Understand the differences between what you are doing now and where you want to be
Define your long term goals and learn how to break them down into smaller milestones with plans for each
Identify daily & weekly targets for each area of the GetFitFormula and track your consistency
Experiment with habits that are sustainable - this builds the foundation for the rest of your life
Deeper analysis of habits & progress to see what works and what can be improved ahead of Phase III
Enhance your education in each area of the GetFitFormula
Set more advanced daily & weekly targets with customized lifestyle improvements
Experience accelerated results with a sustainable approach to your GetFitFormula - you will feel the control you have over your body
Full analysis of the 12-weeks to learn exactly why the resulting transformation occurred
Set you up for long term success beyond the GetFitFormula coaching program
How will we work together?
You will start with a short questionnaire so your coach can learn some basics of your goals, past experiences, and preferences. Then you will have an onboarding call with your coach to work on your customized GetFitFormula plan.
After your plan is in place the 12-week program will start. Each week you will get an email with your upcoming week's plan with your daily targets and progress updates, as well as some educational resources to review as you go along. You may receive some additional questionnaires along the way.
You will have email access to your coach if you have any questions or simply need some advice. Each week you will also receive an email from your coach with a summary of your activities and tips for improvements if needed.
At the end of each phase you will have a call with your coach to review your progress and receive a deeper analysis with insights & suggestions on how to take things to the next level, and then plan the next phase of your GetFitFormula.
After the 12-weeks all of your materials are yours to keep forever, so you can keep going with the GetFitFormula on your own!
How much does the coaching service cost?
The full cost of the program is $450 (single payment). After the 12-week program is completed, there is an option for monthly continuity coaching for $150/month.
Continuity coaching is also available for past GetFItFormula clients (does not have to be immediately after the main 12-week program).
What's the value of GetFitFormula Coaching?
This can vary per person but in general most people struggle with one or more of the following:
With GetFitFormula coaching all of this will be solved for you and you will gain an accountability buddy to keep you on track and help you make adjustments along the way.
Mastering the GetFitFormula and tackling the challenges listed above (or others that are more specific to you) may take weeks, more likely months, or possibly years to overcome through trial-and-error.
Instead, you spend 12-weeks with a nutrition-certified coach and see how you can short-circuit that entire process.
Let's do this!!
-- Coach Jay


text:
Book 5, Crime Lord Series
Book 5 in the Crime Lord Series will be my next work in progress! I know. FINALLY, right? I mentioned in a previous blog that I moved 3 times in 2018, which is why I wasn't able to sit down and write part 2 of Carmen's story. The Crime Lord Series is very intricate and detailed and I didn't want to rush through Carmen's story so I waited until I had the time to give book 5 the attention it deserves. This will be my next release!
The deeper we delve into the series, the more time each book requires. Navigating around future plot points is like tiptoeing around landmines. I get a lot of requests for certain character's books. Every story foreshadows the next and sheds light on each character before they take center stage. I have bread crumbs in books 3 and 4 for books 8 and 10. It's deliberate and the order is not random. Each character will have their time in the limelight. Books 5 and 6 have intersecting timelines so I'll be writing these back to back before I finish book 2 in the Singed Series.
The Crime Lord Series will be a long running series. If all the "main" characters get a book (Lucifer, Raul, Roque, Blade, etc) the series will have over 10 books, which means the Crime Lord Series will be ongoing for years. In between Crime Lord books I'll dabble in other things, but I'll always come back and complete what I've begun.
In an effort to make some major headway on my workload, I'm going to be offline. The best way to reach me is through my email: [email protected] My PA Emily and Kelly will be running my social media in my absence and will be handling inquiries on those platforms. I will check in periodically, but inconsistently. I don't know how long the book will take. Each book is different, but I will announce a release date as soon as I have one!
Thank you so much for your patience and support! I'm really blessed to be able to do this for a living and have an audience eager to see what's next. I hope book 5 is worth the wait! Wish me luck!
25 Comments
First and foremost… Thank you, for such great reads!!!
Every unexpected turn & surprising twist keeps me riveted, on the edge…longing for one more word, look, touch… so that it can last until the next installment.
Take your time! I love your writing and look forward to putting the paperbacks on my shelves. I have re-read the crime lord series 3 times and I'm sure I will read them many more times.
Cannot wait for any of them. I read constantly and your books repeatedly . Take your time please don't ruin them by rushing buy hurry up at the same time 😁
I have never been a person to sit down and read but the crime lord books had me reading book by book definitely 5*plus thank you for writing such riveting books that had me wanting more 💖😀💖
Love your work😘 I have been consistently checking to see if Book 5 has a release date. I am anxiously anticipating Carmen's future. Can't wait!!! Thanks for your wonderful writing
I didn't think I would like a book about Carmen, but she is kick ass. Can't wait for number 5
I am the type of reader that has a hard time not finishing a book that I start. No matter how slow or bad it is. That is one thing I never have to worry about with your books! I know when I purchase one of yours, it will be a winner. Every single time!
I am so glad book you are working on boo 5/6 I was not a book person I am so looking forward to the rest of Carmens story I practically read books 1/4 back to back thank you for opening my eyes I am now a book worm thanks to you 💖😘💖
Been waiting patiently for the next installment, love this CL series i'm so looking forward to read the 5th and the next. Great writing Mia Knight!!!
I love your work Mia! I loved Gavin and Lyla, I am excited for Carmen ( even though we lost Vinny ) and hope she ends up with Angel. I am even excited for Jasmine and Roth. Please know that I am anxiously awaiting the next book and hope the Crime lord series continues through the next generation of Nora.
Hi Mia, I absolutely love your work, I haven't been able to put my iPad down. I can't wait for book 5 and Carmen's story and the new story lines, are we able to pre-order?
Mia, Thank You for a great read and an awesome new series to get hooked on. I am late to the party and just finished book 1 in 2 days and now I am eager for other books that are currently out. Thanks again for your wonderful writing!
I was looking for a new author and came upon your book covers. Looked interesting, my style of reading, thought hey, why not give this one a go.
Well, from page 1 book 1 – Captive, I've been reading your books like a sponge searching liquid. They have been captivating, emotional, quirky – I can go on. Most important, they have a storyline as well. Not reading smut only but a storyline with juicy hot sex scenes.
So looking forward to the next instalment from 'Crime Lord' series. What is installed for Carmen… Marcus, Angel, oh definitely Gavin and Lyla.
Hmm, now to twiddle my thumbs upon next release. Thank you so far. 🤗🤗
Omg i have just lost a week of my life i discovered the Crime Lord series books 1 to 4.5 and was immediately hooked ! Desperate for Carmen's happy ending and Blade's story this series is definitely a re-read ! Eagerly waiting for book 5 💕💕💕
Discovered this series a week ago and have already read them all. I can't wait to read the next one. I have been going to work with 2 hours of sleep because I could not put these down. You now have a new fan Mia. Keep it up! I'm here impatiently waiting.
Okay I have read all the series and anxiously awaiting part 2 of Carmen's story. ❤. When will it be out? Gavin and Lyla's story had me reading all night. Then when I read about Carmen, I was looking for part two everywhere.


text:
Anna Podshivalova
October 9, 2019
Many women come across "catcalling" without even knowing what it is.
Imagine being a young female student walking down the street when all of a sudden you hear a whistle from a man walking past or a passenger in a car driving by.
This is catcalling, and it happens to women so frequently that most of them now simply are immune to it. However, the fact remains that whistling at a stranger is simply wrong and insulting.Continue reading "Catcalling is unacceptable and should not be tolerated"


text:
Wednesday, 31 January 2018
Top five tips for helping autistic kids in the rain
We used to think Anthony didn't like rainbows because rainbows in the sky meant it was raining. Anthony used to hate the rain. He said it hurt his face and he'd do anything to be out of it. He used to be scared of getting out of the car if it was wet outside. Now though we do much better and part of that is down to him learning about it and getting some things to help him in the wet.
Saturday, 27 January 2018
SEND & SpectrumSunday #66
Welcome to our next SEND & Spectrum Sunday linky, where you can link-up and find blog posts about autism, mental health, education and anything related to SEND and SEND kids. Sensory play, autism, disabilities, mental health (parents or kids), education and any other related topics are all welcome!
Wednesday, 24 January 2018
How Youtube and Minecraft helped my autistic son with conceptual thinking
Anthony has the type of autism and ADHD that's often not noticed until it's too late. Anthony speaks, has good eye contact and understands a lot of what's going on around him. He's on some medication for his ADHD which means that although he moves about and doesn't always pay attention, he's not bouncing off the walls. But he still struggles in many areas like other kids with the same conditions.
Thursday, 18 January 2018
Rewards that help with interaction and behaviour
Some kids respond really well to reward charts. There's a lot to be said for them. But they require an understanding of what's being rewarded. For some kids especially those with communication difficulties, rewards work really well, but they need to be instant and they need to have meaning.
Tuesday, 16 January 2018
Facing an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP) deadline
I've been thinking about significance of deadlines. This morning the BBC breakfast show featured a story about the approaching EHCP transfer deadline. This was set by Government for all local authorities to transfer an old document called a 'Statement of Special Educational Needs' to the new Education, Health and Care Plan - a document set out as part of the Children's Act 2014 to improve things for kids, like mine, who need additional support with their education.
Friday, 12 January 2018
Home ideas for an autistic household in 2018
Everyone knows the home is where the heart is. We all want to enjoy our home but sometimes with kids it can seem like making our home safe, or nice or suitable for the family is challenging. Our kids don't understand many boundaries so the place can end up a mess or be unsafe. Here's some easier ideas to help make a house a safe home for a neurotypical and autistic family..
Tuesday, 9 January 2018
Has Toby Young been backed into a cave?
Politics. Half way through the last season of House of Cards, I said to my other half, "I just don't think like this lot." But who does really? I mean it's all drama on the TV right?
I'm generally one for weighing information and thinking about things. Then finally saying my point. Isn't that what most people do? Or not? Take for example, Mr Toby Young.
Monday, 8 January 2018
Make your own StickMan Family with this kids motor-skills craft activity
Inspired by preparing for our latest autistic and neurotypical family visit to see Stick Man Live last week, Jane I set about making our own Stick Man Family by using up materials leftover from Christmas and delving into our craft box.
Thursday, 4 January 2018
Navigating the sea of homework
Out of our three school-age kids, two of them get homework. Young Jane is excited to do hers. She loves learning and practising and getting better. Anthony though finds it difficult.
Monday, 1 January 2018
5 reasons to start a passion project
There's never a better time to think about yourself than right after your children head back to school after winter break. As a parent, it's easy to put yourself last. But the New Year is a great time to focus if you've been putting off doing something you want to do - why not start a passion project.


text:
More than 900 Layoffs at Daimler Trucks Plant
Image 1 of 2
Daimler Trucks in Cleveland confirmed to the Governor's office that it will layoff 936 people in its Rowan County operations. The company says layoffs will begin March 5, 2016, and continue for two weeks. The impacted employees' last day of work will be Friday, January 8, but they will be compensated through March 5.
Most layoffs will come to people working as assemblers (666) and utility team members (107), although several others positions are listed.
The plant manufactures heavy-duty Freightliner and Western Star trucks. The facility currently employs approximately 3,100 workers, which will decrease to 2,200 after the temporary adjustment, according to Daimler Trucks.


text:
Meraki Movement.Meraki (Greek: μεράκι) noun: the soul, essence, and creativity one puts into one's work; the essence of oneself in one's creations.
Movement is the universe, in constant creation.
Meraki Movement is you, honouring your story, creating change.Move your body.
Be Moved.
Lead your own movement.
The journey… When I started yoga and meditation, it was my dirty little secret. I was in my early teens, living in a small town where if you go around saying things like "vinyasa" and "namaste" people assume you're having a stroke. I had a dog-eared copy of Iyenga's Light on Yoga and a very retro book of women in fluorescent leotards putting their legs behind their heads. I'd lock my bedroom door, then attempt to replicate the easier looking poses…
Eleven years and many wonderful teachers later, I made my way to the front of the studio and led my first class.
The practice… The practice I lead is all about encouraging us to embrace creative possibilities and confront the beliefs we have about ourselves. It's not about nailing insta-worthy poses (though that can be fun too). It's about mindful embodied growth. Creating. Moving. Story-honouring. Getting groovy with the constant movement of the universe. Learning how to keep your balance in change.
It's about opening to new ways of being, while also thinking critically. No bandwagons. No BS. Just moving from your core, creating your story.
It's also about having fun. I teach a strong, dynamic class. I tell stories, ask thought-provoking questions, and interweave philosophical themes drawn from diverse sources such as ancient texts, poetry, and The Simpsons. (Read my take on yoga philosophy 101 here). Much of this philosophy comes from a combination of contemporary critical theory, psychology, and the nondualistic tantra Shaivism traditions.
The approach…I've completed teacher trainings in vinyasa with Power Living Australia (2015), Sadie Nardini's Core Strength Vinyasa (2015-2016), and in yin with Evolve yoga (2015). I'm also versed in somatic stress release practices (30hr level I with Dr Scott Lyons, 2019) and energetic systems (Level II reiki initiated at Orion Healing Centre, 2009). The style of practice that I share further draws on things I've learned at teacher development workshops and mini-trainings with Annie Carpenter, Tara Judelle, and Cassie Lee.
I greatly believe that journeys in yoga asana and yoga philosophy can be deepened through dialogue with other modalities. Gems from training in physical theatre with Zen Zen Zo and butoh with Saara Ropella (of Kimera Productions) often sneak into my yoga classes.
Meditation forms a central part of my teachings. Under the guidance of Dr Lorin Roche and Camille Maurine (intensive training 2016), I've explored the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra, the illuminations of contemporary cognitive studies, and the wonder of dance.
The wheres and whens…I'm currently teaching a reduced timetable while I pursue a PhD on the subject yoga has taught me most about: the mind-body-affect-story connection.
Contact me for information on upcoming classes and my semi-private sessions, and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.
Regular Classes
- 7am Saturdays: Vinaysa, Brisbane Yoga Space.
- 4pm Saturdays: Vinyasa, Brisbane Yoga Space
Private and small group sessions
In these sessions, I tailor a practice specifically to your needs. This might mean customised yoga asana or a combination of philosophy, goal setting, meditation, creative activities, and yoga asana. These classes can be held at your home, a park, or my home. Contact me for more information.


text:
– Hey everyone.
Welcome to Yoga With Adriene, I'm Adriene and this is Benji and today we have an awesome
practice for managing stress. So you are not alone, I am there
with you and today we're going to find what feels good whether
you're super stressed out or whether you're wanting to
cultivate more preventative care practices in your life. So let's hop into
something comfy and get started. (gentle music) Alright everyone, let's begin
seated on the ground and I'd like to say if this is a
hard shape for you to start in, you can start in any comfortable
seated posture of your choice. If you want to give this shape a
go but you find that the spine is really rounding forward and
you're kind of coming into this shape, totally normal. Just pause, grab a towel or a
blanket or a pillow and sit it right underneath the bum so
that you can have a little more support in sitting up nice and
tall which is where we're going to aim to begin. Unless you're a dog, then resume
some sort of shape like this. Okay. Thanks so much for being here. If you've selected this
video there's probably a reason whether it's for preventative
care or maybe you're tending to something particular. Let's begin sitting up nice and
tall and we're actually going to take the hands right
to the heart to start. And trust me, trust yourself,
trust this practice, this moment that you've
really carved out for yourself. You've really done the hard part
already so go ahead and allow the eyelids to close here and just gently begin
to relax your shoulders. And as you get settled in, trusting that this
is the right choice. Ya done good. See if you can find
more length in the spine. As you start to
notice your inhalations. And then see if you can
relax the shoulders even more. Soften any parts of the body
that you might be gripping or holding in as you
bring your awareness, your attention
to your exhalation. So on the inhales we're paying
attention to sitting up nice and tall, kind of creating space,
really easygoing like and then on the exhale is you're
just finding places to soften. So right away we're
anchoring the mind in these tasks of lifting, finding space on
a big conscious inhale. And softening or relaxing, letting go with a
nice conscious exhale. Now tuck your chin
slightly as you continue with these loving tasks. And if you've been particularly
we'll say "stressed out" you might start to
notice an immediate release. Maybe of emotion or just
sensation in the body and if you're feeling okay with it
today I'm going to invite you to not shy away from that. To really let the yoga serve. Let this connection of
mind and body do it's thing. Continuing with the breath. Big inhale to
lengthen through the spine. And long, conscious breath out
to just soften anything that needs to soften and within this glorious task
of inhaling and lengthening and exhaling and softening just allowing any sensation, any emotion, anything
that your mind and body is communicating to one another. Anything that that marriage needs or wants to do,
just allow it to do just that. Great, take one
more cycle of breath. Perhaps on this next cycle of
breath it's the deepest inhale and the longest exhale
that you've taken all day. Here we go. Nice and then
keep your breath going, best you can. You're gonna draw
the chin to the chest. Perhaps the
forehead towards the palms, head to heart because this is what the discipline
of yoga is really. Inviting us to do is to marry
mind and body and in particular today we're gonna focus on
doing that with the breath. Take a couple
cycles of breath here. Feel this great stretch
in the back of the neck. Such a simple
but powerful gesture to focus the connection, the communication of
your mind and body so that it can serve you, guide you back
to what feels good. What is a valuable. Awesome. Take one more breath here. And this time as you exhale
and relax your shoulders you can open the eyes, lift your
chin and smile just a bit. Life is good. Take a deep breath in. Long breath out
through the mouth. (exhales loudly) Twice more like that.
Big inhale in through the nose. And empty it out,
maybe sigh it out here. (sighs) Don't be shy. One more, inhale,
lift your heart, your sternum up
towards your thumbs. And exhale out
through the mouth, release. Awesome, send the
fingertips left to right. Inhale, sweep the right arm
all the way up and overhead, big stretch, big breath. Exhale, come back to center. Right hand comes to the earth,
left fingertips reach all the way up as you
take a deep breath in. And exhale back to center. Twice more on each side. Inhale, right fingertips up. Exhale back to center. And inhale left
fingertips up high. And exhale back to center. One more time on each
side with your breath. Awesome, draw the
hands to the heart. Prayer Position. Take a deep breath in. Inhale, lift sternum
to thumbs once again. Exhale, press
the palms together, elbows left to right. So nice, firm
press in the palms. Inhale in again, lift the chest. Exhale, draw your navel in
towards your spine so you're creating a nice
connection to your center, your core. Sweet, inhale, lengthen
through the back of the neck. Tuck the chin slightly. And then exhale,
this is a small move. We're gonna slowly turn. Moving from the midline. Base of the spine all
the way up to the crown. Big twist to the right,
nice and easy. So big twist but no cranking. Keep it nice and subtle. Connecting to
the midline always. And then pressing
it back to center. Inhale in, lift your
chest and exhale. Just take it as far as
your body tells you to. Oh yeah. Beautiful.
And then back to center. Twice more on each side. Inhale to lift the sternum. Connect to your
center as we exhale, palms continue
to press together. Twist to the right. Head, heart and
pelvis in alignment. And then slowly
release back to center. Inhale. And exhale. Keep the
head and the heart and the pelvis in one
straight line here. So if that means you
don't twist as much, it's okay. And then release back to center and then one more
time on each side. On your own, with your breath. I'll meet you back in center. When you're ready
we're gonna inhale, head over heart, heart
over pelvis and then exhale, release the hands to the ground and come forward
on to all fours. Take your time getting there. Move like you love yourself,
nice and easy. Immediately syncing up with
the breath here for Cat-Cow. Here we go,
drop the belly, inhale. Open the chest forward. Tailbone up towards the sky,
forehead soft. And then exhale round through. Soften your gaze
here or close your eyes. Chin to chest. And then inhale, drop the belly,
shoulders rotate out and open chest nice and wide. And then exhale,
curling through. Starting at the tailbone,
crawling all the way up through the spine.
Finding that wave. And then twice more on your own. Moving with your breath. Maybe close your eyes here. Nice, now inhale
come to Tabletop Position, nice neutral spine. Notice if the lower belly's
kind of ducking down here. Really reach your tailbone towards the back
edge of your mat. Draw the navel up and in. So the core connects here
and then send the crown of your head forward. So if the neck is
dropping down here, gain awareness all
the way through the neck. Remembering it is a nice, beautiful extension
of the spine. Great. For beginners or
someone who's new to the mat, new to this position, I got you. You might already be shaking
and finding some warmth here. If you like to find some
warmth and be a little more, curl the toes under,
take a deep breath in. Press away from your yoga
mat and then on an exhale, just gentle, graceful
hovering of the knees up. Maintain this nice connection
from crown to tail and everyone start to breath a
little more fully. Add more depth of breath here. Widen your inhale so feel
the inhale in your back body, your side ribs. Great. Whether the
knees are lifted or not, everyone send
attention to your hands. Draw your palms in
towards the center of your mat. And then your toes in towards
the center of your mat for one more breath cycle in.
And out. (shushing sound) And then if the knees
are lifted, slowly lower. Release the feet, everyone bring
the big toes together to touch. Knees as wide as the yoga mat. Then we're gonna actively
walk the palms out here. Inhale, upper arm
bones rotate out, drop the belly, look forward. And then exhale, send the sits
bones all the way back towards the soles of the feet. Try to keep a nice active
reach here if it feels good. And then melt your heart down as
we begin to open up through the shoulders, the chest. If the forehead
doesn't come to the earth, you can maybe stack the forearms
here to bring the earth up to you or you can just
maintain a lift here. Breathing fully
again, nice, wide breath. If the forehead does come to
the mat you have the option here rock gently left to right,
nice loving massage on the third eye point, the brow. Now find that nice
depth of breath here again, that wide inhale breathing into
all four sides of the torso and here in your own
private little love cave, let go of the day thus far. Choose to let go of whatever's
to come and allow yourself to be really in the present
moment for this practice. It'll go by before you know
it so give it your all here. Choosing to be
present with your breath. With the sensations
that come up in your body. Then in order to listen to the
sound of the breath we'll start to invite just a soft
restriction in the back of the throat.
We call this Ujjayi breath. So you don't have to look at me,
I'll guide you with my voice. But you're just gonna bring the
tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth here. And as you inhale, create a soft
restriction in the back of the throat so you kind of
hear this ocean-like sound. And then for the exhale, we'll
try to maintain that connection of tip of the tongue and
the roof of the mouth and maintain that sound. (breathing) Give yourself a couple
more moments to locate or try to locate that sound. And notice how it can
affect your body as you breathe downward towards the hips. Great. Press into the fingertips,
keep this ocean breath going. On your next inhale, carve a
line with a nose nice and slow, controlled movement here,
to look forward. From here, we're gonna keep the
legs where they are and walk the hands slowly off the
left edge of the mat. If you need a little more, gotta
have more have your right hand come to the top of your
left hand and then gently bow. Think chin to chest here. Connect to your center. Inhale, ocean sound,
feel that stretch through the right side body. Super yummy. And then exhale,
walk it back to center and we'll take it
to the other side. Hands slowly
walking off the right edge. Take the left hand
maybe put it on the right. Tuck the chin into the chest. Think Cat Pose here as
you connect to your center. Take a deep breath in. And a long breath out. Great, release,
come back to center. Press into the tops of the feet. Use your center connection,
your core connection to draw the navel in and up. And then slow and steady
walk the knees back to center. Walk the ankles in
line with the knees. Back to that neutral spine. Great, hips circles. Soft bend in the elbows. You're just gonna start nice and
slow moving the hip points down, around and up. And then think about moving from
your tail once you get going here so you can grow
this just a little bit. Again, soft bend in the elbows. Now returning to that Ujjayi
breath or that ocean sound. Going inward. Reverse your circle and take this
opportunity before we go into Downward Dog to just check
out the integrity of your hands. Your hand to earth connection. Maybe you need to
spread the fingertips. Awesome, then
come back to center. Curl the toes under and we're
gonna peel up from the tail so nice and slow, with your breath,
Downward Facing Dog. Take your time. When you get
up there, continue moving the hips,
pedal out through the feet. Let your breath reign here. So reside in the breath. Let your breath
be your main focus. We have the shape. Claw through the fingertips. One more cycle of breath here as
you pedal through the feet and find what feels good. And now find stillness. Close your eyes. Careful that you're not
holding in the neck here. Don't worry about the
heels coming to the ground. Stay focused on your breath. Nice, then slow and steady,
you're gonna bend the knees and you're just gonna slowly,
nice and easy, nothing fancy, you're gonna step
the right foot all the way up and lower the left knee down. So we're coming
into a nice low lunge. Great, then left hand's gonna
come to the earth and you're gonna inhale, reach the right
fingertips up high to the sky. So spread
through the right hand, right palm,
right fingertips mindfully and open up through the chest. Back toes can be curled
or pressing into the ground, yogi's choice. Inhale, open your heart.
One more breath. And then on your
exhale come back to center. Beautiful. Plant the palms,
lift the back knee here. Then inhale, open the chest,
let your heart radiate forward. Grow light on the fingertips. Connect to your
core and then exhale, plant the palms,
step it back, Plank Pose. You got this. Breathe deep. Start to wake up all of
the muscles but also bring integrity, connection
to all of the joints. The way you're placing,
setting yourself up for greatness with the hands. Reaching back through the heels. You're here for five,
you got it. Four, lift the heart center up. Three, two and
then Downward Dog. Hips up high
and back on the one. Awesome work. Back to that Ujjayi breath. If you need to let out
a big sigh at any moment through the mouth, do it. One of the perks of
the home practice too, if you're practicing alone,
surprise yourself (huffs), let something go. Cool and then nice and
steady when you're ready, we're gonna
bring the left foot up. Again, nothing fancy.
Just slow and steady. If you need to use your hand
to bring your foot up, do it. And then we'll
lower the back knee. Stay present in
every moment here. Body's opening up. Mind and body connecting, yes. We're off the cell phone. Beautiful, front knee
over front ankle. Using our time wisely. When you're ready,
right hand comes to the earth. Left hip crease pulls back. And we find our twist.
Nice and open. Breathing deep here. Find a softness in the face. And then one more breath, really open up
through the chest. You got it,
full body experience. Breathe wide in all
four sides of the torso. And then on an exhale,
release it down. Awesome, awesome.
Here we go. Open up through
the chest. Inhale. Heart radiates forward. Awesome, on an exhale you're
gonna lift that back knee. Plant the palms, step the
left toes back, Plank Pose. Really pressing away from the
yoga mat and lifting the heart center up between
the shoulder blades. So you're not dipping down in
the hips or the upper back body here but rather the whole front
body is really levitating up to meet the back body. Reach the heels back. This is our strengthening moment
today so stick with me here. Send your gaze straight down. We're here for five,
breathe deep, you got it. Four.
Breathe, breathe, breathe. Three. Breathe. Two. Big breath. One, Downward Dog.
Awesome work. Hey, look at my
little downward dog here. One more big inhale, you got it. And then exhale,
slowly lower to the knees. Swing the legs all the way
around and come back to a seat. This time with the legs
all the way out in front. Great, take a moment
to really flex your toes up towards your face. And again, if you sat on
a blanket or a towel in the beginning of class,
go ahead and grab it now. Sit up on your bolster.
Makeshift bolster. Great, hands are
gonna come to the sides. Fingertips or palms on the earth
depending on the length of your arm and your anatomy and then
slowly we'll begin to lift the heels if we can,
if not that's okay, we just want you to engage
in the tops of the thighs. Femur really hugging in
towards the hip socket here. Dundasana. Great, breathe. Think about all
four sides of the torso. Lifting and lengthening and
then just like we did at the beginning of this practice,
use your inhale to find length, create space and then use your
exhale to let go and ground in a soft gentle manner. So sometimes we're super
stressed out and we don't realize that we don't need much. We just need a little
time and space to let go and settle into
the present moment. Find stillness here for
one more cycle of breath. You got it. Great, then hands are gonna come
back to heart center and as you do this careful not to round
forward here but think about your shoulder socket, right, going around and in and that's what allows your
heart to lift up. Sternum to thumbs. Inhale in, exhale slowly
dial heart center to the left. Little wringing out of
the abdominal organs here to help you feel good.
Bring it back to center. Keep breathing and
over towards the right. Nice and easy.
Doesn't have to be big move. And then over to
center and to the left. So good for the body
and then back to center and one more time. Awesome. Back to center,
release the fingertips. Bring them behind the thighs. You're gonna pick your knees up
just a bit and then we're gonna inhale, draw
the navel in and up. We call this
Uddiyana Bandha so actively, especially if you
have your belly here, right, which we
all do so no judgment. And in fact, this is a great
moment to say drop the judgment. Yoga's a great practice for us to come to terms with how much of our stress really
comes from, you know, our own selves
being hard on ourself. So, here's a great moment. Just a little learning
moment for all of us. Bring your hands to your belly. Love this belly. Draw the navel in and up. It's all here, find that power. And then imagine, hands come
back to the backs of the thighs, you're gonna go over a
little beach ball here. A little any ball. Hey-o. Right here at the belly, you're
gonna think up and over as you come into a modified
Seated Forward Fold. So we're not just going in
straight in and straight at it. We're coming
into this connection, finding that belly lock and then
lifting the heart up and over to maybe drape the belly
over the tops of the thighs. From here the hands can come
to the earth or to the feet, yogi's choice. Try to keep the
shoulders relaxed, away from the ears. And then in time you can
work to straighten the legs but I like to start bent. As you're ready, allow the
weight of the head to relax over and once again,
trust yourself, trust me, trust this practice and this
time by closing your eyes. Reconnect to that ocean breath. Connecting to every
cell of your being here. Yeah, the breath. So you should really
be able to feel the inhale and then the softening. Catch a different
type of wave here. And again, we create
a lot of stress and undue havoc
on the mind and body through self-judgment and a lack of self-care, self-love so take a
couple quiet moments here to just bask in your breath. Let got of toxicity. Let go of any place you
might be holding or gripping. Particularly the neck. Yes, and then slowly bat the eyelashes open, release. And come all the way up. Beautiful.
Notice how you feel. If you feel any
different from when we started. And you're gonna use your palms
to come all the way down to the ground and when you get there,
find what feels good. So I'm gonna suggest immediately hugging the knees
into the chest. And then from here you can
lower the feet to the ground and take a Bridge Pose. Nice, easy hip bridges. Or if you're ready for
relaxation you can go straight to laying down. If you're ready
for Setu Bandhasana, hug the heels up. Excuse me, step the
heels up towards your bum. Make sure your knees are in
alignment with your thighbone and the hip points. Press the palms into the earth. Here we go,
toes pointing forward. Gentle peeling up
of the hip points. Think about your sits bones
really reaching towards the backs of the knees. Then we're gonna keep it soft
and easy today so bring the shoulder blades underneath,
open the palms, and imagine you're
squeezing a little ball. There's that ball again. In-between the inner thighs. Chest comes to the chin. And chin to the sky. Find your breath, chest to chin. And chin to sky. Awesome.
Slowly release. All the way down. Yeah, let out a big
sigh just like Benji did. And when the hips kiss the
ground just windshield wiper the legs left to right,
nice and easy, back and forth.
Back and forth. And eventually
the legs will come all the way down to the ground. You're gonna inhale, reach the arms all the
way up and overhead. Nice full body stretch. Spread the fingers. Spread the toes. Relax through the jaw. Take one more deep breath in. And then exhale,
rain the fingertips down. We'll come into a
Corpse Pose here just to reset. Option here to bring an index
finger to the thumb very lightly and to part the lips gently. Now close your eyes and allow
your body to be heavy and still. Then as you're ready, begin to
wiggle the fingers and the toes. Then slowly
bend your right knee, slide you right foot
back up to the ground. Feel your foot on the earth. And then slowly
bend the left knee. Sole of the left
foot to the ground. Really feel it connecting. Take a deep breath in. On an exhale, draw your navel to
your spine finding your center as you turn on to one side. Any side, find
your fetal position. Smile. And then as you use
your palms to slowly, with control,
press back up to a seat. Leave whatever's
stressing you out, anything that might be bothering
you on the ground just to fertilize back into the earth. And come up feeling a
little bit lighter maybe. Little more open to
moving in a different way. Managing, navigating
things with a little more ease, a little more grace. Hands come
together at the heart. Sit up nice and tall,
take a deep breath in. Just take a moment of
gratitude for yourself, for doing this practice,
taking the time. And we finish by bringing the thumbs right up
to the third eye. Take in a nice, big inhale in. And then using
your exhale to bow. Namaste. (gentle music)


text:
Monday, 23 June 2008
'...only connect...' It sounds so perfectly expressed, so pared-down. But is it actually enough only to connect? Don't we need to do more than that? Connection is a starting point, or relationships would all be one-night-stands, and our social responsibilities would be a standing-back with 'there, I've connected ... that's all I'm prepared to do.' There's something similar in Swinburne's 'love the beloved republic', a phrase Forster was fond of quoting. Again it sounds splendid, and chimes with our sense that without love no republic can function -- that (in other words) law, authority and self-interest are not enough by themselves to make the republic cohere. But that's not the same thing as saying that love is fully sufficient. My mode of loving may be anathema to you, and vice versa, and yet we both need to get along in the beloved republic.
Posted by Adam Roberts Project at 01:02
No comments:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Stay on target
Three International Space Station crew members have landed safely back on Earth.
Expedition 56 commander Drew Feustel and flight engineer Ricky Arnold of NASA, along with flight engineer and Soyuz commander Oleg Artemyev from the Russian space agency Roscosmos landed last night in a remote area of central Asia.
But before he ended his 197-day expedition, Feustel recorded a special video from space.
Intercut with scenes from around the ISS and the world, Feustel sings of the world going fast "as we float slow, the stars above the Earth below," looking down to see the sky.
The slow, soothing seven-minute video is a collaboration with Gord Sinclair, bassist for Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, and a friend of Feustel.
"Special thanks to the crew of Expedition 55 and 56 for their support and participation in our human space exploration mission," the astronaut wrote on Twitter. "I am ever thankful for the support of my family, friends, and colleagues. Love is all around us and we are all around the world."
There is no doubt that guitars work just as well in zero gravity: Canadian rocketeer Chris Hadfield in 2013 signed off as International Space Station commander with a modified rendition of David Bowie's "Space Oddity"—a recording that has gone down in ISS history.
Feustel made headlines in May, when he was identified as the mysterious NASA astronaut who forgot the GoPro's SD card during a simulcast spacewalk.
Then, to mark the start of August's U.S. Open, Feustel and Ricky Arnold faced fellow NASA traveler Serena Auñón-Chancellor and Alexander Gerst (of the European Space Agency) in a gravity-defying game of tennis aboard the ISS.
Expedition 57 continues station research and operations with a crew comprised of Auñón-Chancellor, Gerst, and Sergey Prokopyev of Roscosmos. Gerst assumed command of the station as Feustel prepared to depart.
NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin are scheduled to increase the crew size to five upon their arrival on Oct. 11.
The Expedition 56 crew recently repaired an air leak on one of two Russian Soyuz aircraft, after a meteorite allegedly tore the fabric. Take a virtual tour of the ISS's longest route, led by your guide Oleg Artemyev. And keep up with all the latest International Space Station news here.