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American Outlook
Want to read more about A State of Defense? Click the image to view the Fall 2012 issue of American Outlook.
With talk of unmanned systems and cyber-security, it's clear that warfare has changed. What might not be as apparent, though, is how these strategic currents influence the American Midwest. A place once overlooked in national security conversations, the Midwest is beginning to catch the attention of national players in defense. Indiana, in particular, is making a name for itself. Through a unique suite of defense assets, the state provides an optimal environment for developing and testing capabilities for the 21st century war fighter. And few know the dynamics of this narrative better than Vice Admiral Mike Bucchi.
Following his commission in June 1970, Vice Admiral Mike Bucchi completed flight training and was designated a Naval Aviator on October 1971. The rest of his intense operational career was marked by significant achievements. For instance, he was the first East Coast fleet pilot to fire a Phoenix missile; he served as an instructor at Top Gun; and he was the Operations Officer for Fighter Squadron Thirty-One during its first year as an F-14 squadron. He was assigned to Commander, Fighter Wing One with additional duties as Special Intelligence Officer to the Commander in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet Strategic Support Team, and then served as Readiness Officer for the Commander, Tactical Wings Atlantic.
VADM Bucchi then moved on to serve as first Executive Officer, then as the thirty-fourth Commanding Officer of Fighter Squadron Thirty-Three. His command tour was followed by appointment as F-14 Fighter Readiness and Adversary Officer at Commander, Naval Air Forces, Atlantic. In 1990, he became the Deputy Commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Eight, and participated in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Provide Comfort. During those operations he logged over thirty combat missions and more than one hundred combat flight hours. Following graduation from National War College, Vice Admiral Bucchi commanded Carrier Air Wing Three from late 1992 to mid-1994.
He has completed various Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf cruises aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67), USS America (CV 66), and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), amassing over 6,000 total flight hours and more than 1,000 carrier arrested landings. VADM Bucchi was promoted to Flag rank in June 1994 and then assigned as the Deputy U.S. Military Representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Military Committee in Brussels, Belgium. In June of 1996 Vice Admiral Bucchi became Commander, Carrier Group Six, homeported in Mayport, Florida. In December 1996, he assumed additional duties as Deputy Commander, Joint Task Force Southwest Asia until March 1997. Vice Admiral Bucchi then became the Chief of Naval Air Training on December 15, 1997 and received his third star en route to his assignment as Commander, U.S. Third Fleet and the Director of the Navy's Sea Based Battle Lab. Vice Admiral Bucchi completed his last active duty tour as Commander of the United States Third Fleet on 28 May 2003.
His awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with Combat "V," the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Strike/Flight awards with Combat "V," the Joint Service Commendation Medal, five Navy Commendation Medals with Combat "V," the Humanitarian Service Medal and various campaign and unit awards.
On June 16, 2003 Mr. Bucchi started work at Ocean Systems Engineering Corporation (OSEC), a high-tech software company whose corporate office was located in Carlsbad, CA. He joined OSEC as the Chief Operation Officer and Executive Vice President and later became President of the Company on March 1, 2005. After OSEC was acquired by Apogen Technologies, a QinetiQ North America company, Mr. Bucchi became a Senior Vice President for the Mission Solutions Group where he led the Navy Business unit in Southern California. Mr. Bucchi is presently employed with Concurrent Technologies Corporation as Executive Technical Director with a primary focus on helping NSWC Crane grow strategically. He also serves as the Vice Chairman & Treasurer for the National Center for Complex Operations' Board of Directors.
Sagamore Institute spoke with Vice Admiral Michael Bucchi to better understand the evolution of modern warfare and the economic potential these changes bring to Indiana.
Sagamore: Let's start by having you introduce yourself.
Bucchi: My real name is Toney Michael Bucchi, but I've always gone by Mike or Michael. Shortly after I entered the Navy I received a call sign, though. As it turned out, I had a tendency to smile when people were shouting at me, so before long I had a new handle, "Smiles." That name stayed with me throughout my military career. In fact, a lot of my acquaintances still send me notes and refer to me as Smiles instead of my real name.
Following my commission in June 1970, I completed flight training and was designated a Naval Aviator in October 1971. I instructed in advanced jets just over two years and was selected to go be a TOMCAT driver and was one of the first "new bloods" (A new guy without any fleet experience, yet) to get into the F-14 TOMCAT. It was a brand new machine when I first got my wings. I flew the F-14 TOMCAT as my primary airplane and accumulated over 3,000 hours in that particular aircraft. During my last two fleet tours of duty, I was dual qualified in both the F-14 TOMCAT and the F-18 HORNET.
I've done a lot of aircraft carrier work, too. Most of my deployments were east coast, although we ended up over in the Pacific in a couple of those. I've flown over 6,000 tactical hours and have over 1,000 arrested carrier landings. If you're a C-130 pilot, 6,000 hours isn't that much, but if you fly a pointed-noise, fast mover that's a pretty good number to have.
I had command of Fighter Squadron Thirty-Three. I was the Deputy Air Wing Commander, Air Wing Eight, during Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort. Then after National War College I was given command of Carrier Air Wing Three. While deployed during my Air Wing tour, we supported operations off of Bosnia. I was selected for Flag (Admiral) while I was still the Air Wing Commander.
I had my first Flag Officer tour as Deputy U.S. Military Representative to the NATO Military Committee over in Brussels, Belgium. I worked for a great three star Army General named Tom Montgomery who happens to be from Indianapolis. So I'm right here at his doorstep. He actually attended IU here in Bloomington.
I left Brussels and was given command of a carrier battle group, Carrier Group Six, out of Mayport, Florida. My command ship was the USS John C. Stennis. I went on from there to be the Chief of Naval Air Training in Corpus Christi, Texas for nearly three years. I got my third star as I left there to go command the Third Fleet in San Diego. I retired June 1, 2003 out of that particular job.
Can you give us an idea of your duties as Commander of Third Fleet?
In essence, the Third Fleet Commander is responsible for anything from our West Coast to the international dateline. He gets a lot of traffic, message traffic, etc. regarding different kinds of players in and out of those particular waters. Now if we were invaded from the West, the Third Fleet Commander would be the commander of the joint task force, at least the maritime piece of that. That's part of his job; however, I did not loose that much sleep over that particular possibility.
The main function of the Third Fleet Commander is to train the carrier battle groups and the amphibious ready groups—we call them carrier strike groups now—to prepare them for deployment.
While I was at Third Fleet I had five carrier strike groups and five amphibious ready groups that we trained on a varying deployment schedule. As I ended my time at Third Fleet, I had four of my carrier battle groups and four of my Amphibious Ready Groups deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
So basically the Third Fleet Commander has operational control of the aircraft carriers, the air wings that belonged to those aircraft carriers, the ships that belong to those strike groups and all the people that belong to those entities. Now once we deploy them, and they cross over into the operational environment of another fleet commander, then we switch reporting responsibilities from one operational commander to another. In this case, we would "chop" them from Third Fleet Commander's operational control to either the 7th Fleet Commander or the 5th Fleet Commander, depending on what was going on.
Considering both the positives and the negatives, how has the United States military transformed since you entered the service in 1970?
The military has grown by leaps and bounds since I entered. That really should not be a surprise when you pause and just think about how technology has changed in those 42 years; it's a pretty awesome thing.
And our military has grown accordingly. The military today is a lot more connected with technological aids that give the war fighter greater situational awareness. They can actually see a lot of stuff that we couldn't in those early days. We now have the ability to communicate not only at strategic levels but also all the way down to the boots on the ground. Much has changed on the technological front.
But the greatest weapon we've got is our people. And that's what I really want to underscore. They have never been any stronger, and they have never been anymore capable. The education level of our men and women in uniform is very high today.
As a little side note: When I was the commander of Fighter Squadron 33, I was given what had been a recruiting poster, and I had it framed and hung on the wall. It was a picture of an American sailor with an American flag flying draped in the background and the caption on that picture said, "Back home they think that I am God's gift to man . . . and he is." Well I would say that held true when I was the commanding officer of Fighter Squadron 33 and it still does today when we look at our young people that wear the uniform regardless of what service they are in.
How have national security needs evolved since you flew in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort?
Well that's an interesting question. Talking in particular about Desert Storm, I think we had begun to realize as a nation that we couldn't go at it by ourselves. President Bush worked very hard to form up a great coalition. We learned that in order to do these kind of operations in the future the U.S. would have to rely on combined armed forces from other nations both from a military and political standpoint—Those two are always working side by side together.
In addition to that, we started to approach things differently from what we had in the past. Prior to Desert Storm the word "joint" had been thrown around for quite some time. People gave lip service to it, but it was not a way of life for us. Coming out of Desert Storm, we came to the realization that we all have to be truly "joint" as we approach these kinds of conflicts in the future. We cannot be out here alone and unafraid, so to speak. Our needs have evolved to include combined forces with "joint forces."
The other significant change that came was the absolute reliance upon smart weapons. We wasted a lot of dumb ordnance during Desert Storm, which we were releasing from high altitudes. In some instances, we had winds in excess of a hundred knots. If you're going to drop from 30,000 feet with that kind of wind it is almost impossible to hit pin-point targets. So the smart weapons made a name for themselves. Coming out of Desert Storm we all began to target pinpoint, very small and specific targets that required the use of smart weapons.
Another one that has really jumped out in the last couple years is how our nation uses Special Forces. That's been a growth area. And I'm proud to say we have people like Adm. Bill McRaven, our SOCOM Commander, leading these forces on a daily basis. He gives us assurance that they will get the job done right the first time around.
And why do you see Special Forces becoming more relevant?
It's because of the increase in irregular warfare we've been dealing with in the last 5 to 10 years. It is very difficult to fight those battles with conventional forces. The way Special Forces train really gives them the ability to take on irregular combat situations.
Normally when we think of Special Forces we think of what we in the Navy call our SEALS, "Snake Eaters." They are the ones with black stuff all over their faces and grass all over their heads so you can't see them in the grass. Although they do those kinds of missions very well, they also have the best nation building skills. So when you have that particular combination, they are our go to people for the irregular-type warfare.
Where do you see national security heading with the de-escalation of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom coupled with the looming budget cuts?
Well clearly the budget is on everybody's mind for good reason. The economy is very important to the stability of the nation. The warning note is that the U.S. cannot afford to take the path the Soviet Union did in the late 1980s. They basically bankrupt their country through escalated spending, and we just cannot afford to go down that path. So clearly there are a lot of good reasons to be concerned about the budget.
As the timeline progresses, there is a lot of uncertainty with what our nation's civilian leadership is going to expect out of their military. As our military forces pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan, one thing we are going to have to do is reconstitute the force and our resources, which we have used so heavily in the last ten years. At the same time, we're still faced with a very dangerous and unstable world so we can't think that we're just walking away from that type of situation. It may not be in Afghanistan and it may not be in Iraq, but rest assured it will be somewhere because the bad actors are just not going to go away on their own. The current Strategic Guidance makes it pretty clear that we have our hands full for a long time.
In order to be successful we're going to need both a strong offense and a strong defense. What I'm really trying to say is we have to be very good at conventional warfare—the kind guys like me grew up with, trained for etc—but we also have to be very good at the irregular warfare piece at the same time. Although we're coming out of Afghanistan and Iraq we have to realize that those things aren't going to just go away. We have to face realities here, and we have some hard decisions to make.
But another factor that I would weave in here is that of deterrence: How do you prevent a crisis from developing? How do you keep from getting out of control so a situation doesn't spread into a conflict? I would say you must have a credible force in order to have deterrence as an option.
I know many times, while an aircraft carrier was deployed to the Mediterranean or the Pacific Ocean, the admiral would get a command, to reposition to the coast of some particular country that was having a problem. That was to show the flag of force. Of course, often we would conduct operations off the carrier to ensure they knew that we were there.
Point being, the nation can use those carrier strike groups and those assets—diplomatic tactics really—to show force deterrence. But that only works if you have a strong force. Bottom line: the United States must keep a strong and credible military.
I was struck by what Chief of Naval Operations said when they worked up the maritime strategy for the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. One of the statements that he personally made was that they believe preventing wars is as important as winning wars. You don't have to fight wars if you can prevent them from every occurring. So deterrence is very important.
And I say all this to point back at that budget theme. We have to protect the economy and not let it fall, but at the same time, we must have a great military force that can prevent bad actors from doing the things that they want to do to this nation or any other nation.
Now these proposed budget cuts, if they happen, do you see these as temporary in nature or is this over the long-term?
Well from all indications, this is going to be for the long term. I was looking at some of the budget material that's out there and at least until 2017 we are going to be faced with this situation. I would say it's not going to happen overnight. We're going to have to be in this thing for the long haul to get it under control.
And the theme that seems to emerge has to do with the resources that we have at our disposal. Better efficiency and better effectiveness of those resources—"E2"—is the new emphasis.
What programs do you think will get increased funding and which do you see experiencing cuts?
Well it's not that easy to just pick it apart, but I would say that a sure winner is that of unmanned systems. It is listed as a winner for both the Navy and the Air Force, which includes the Marine Corps as well. I think that is a very good thing for the state of Indiana. Right now the NCCO is working very hard with the state for Indiana to become one of the six FAA unmanned system test sites. Another area that's likely to gain funding is cyber warfare and cyber security. And of course that's another one of the focal areas for the NCCO. So despite some of the cuts, all in all I'd say from an Indiana perspective, the gains in the budget for unmanned systems and cyber would probably be good for the state.
As we look out to the next ten years what do you see as the biggest threat to the United States? Are we talking a conventional threat or are we talking irregular threats?
In the next ten years I would be more worried about what could happen to us from the cyber side. But I think we need to be very careful on the conventional side too. Let's say we decide to take our aircraft carriers to a low number. It takes a long time to reconstitute that type of force. If the U.S. is going "down the slope" one way and a rising power is coming up the hill on the other side, the U.S. may have difficulty reversing course once that rising threat finally catches its eye. If we get too low we won't have the time or the resources to pull ourselves back up to where we need to be. That's one of the things I'm always worried about. I don't want us to be so focused on the short-term piece that we let the long-term get away from us.
Turning our attention to Indiana specifically, what gives our state the edge for developing and testing unmanned systems?
Well I think it's the three or four major assets we have in the state. We have a unique set of defense assets in Muscatatuck Urban Training Center (MUTC), which is state-of-the-art. It's really one of the most realistic, real-world training centers in the U.S. It has all kinds of human assets. It has a full spectrum capability for testing sensors. And you have the ability to train in a very realistic way. You get nearly immediate feedback through the capabilities they have such as video taping and recording with play back capability.
We also have Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuvering Training Center right next door to the MUTC. We have Crane, the Navy's third largest base with obvious R&D advantages and other capabilities right here. And of course over at Terre Haute we have the 181st Intelligence Wing. So we have some unique assets that pull all of this together here in the state.
As a matter of fact, the more important point is the synergy. It isn't just any one of those assets, but it's the synergy of all of those netted together. We are trying to do that now. That is what makes our asset base such a powerful thing for the state of Indiana and for this nation.
Can you give me a sense of how significant Crane and the WestGate is to contributing to America's armed forces?
Crane is kind of a unique place in that if you come out to NSA Crane and look around it's not going to be populated with a lot of individuals wearing a uniform. Many of the people that that work here have been on active duty or reserve. This is more of an R&D facility and S&T. In other words, this is where the smart work is done on items that are of interest to the war fighter.
What you have at NSWC Crane is an industry team made up of various contractors working alongside a team of government employees. The two working together provide the war fighter with increased capabilities from the Strategic Missions side to Special Operations Support to advancing our Electronic Warfare capabilities, whether that be on an airplane, a ship, or underneath the water. Crane serves not only just Navy, but also the other services including the rapid turn-around support for Special Forces.
When you look at what Crane has to offer the war fighter, it's the ability to have a problem identified in theater that gets sent back to the States. Crane then gets to work with the government side and the industry side, and sometimes in a matter of a few days we have a solution. We can get a quick fix that we are able to push back to the war fighter. There are numerous examples of Crane executing a very fast, a very quick turnaround—where an issue that happened on the battlefield gets resolved in less than a week.
At the same time you have some things that just take a lot of time to work through. I think a good example is the next generation of jammers: that is something that doesn't happen overnight. There are a lot of brain cells working together daily to make sure that the timeline is on schedule and that we will be able to provide to our war fighter the next-gen jammer that is going to make a tremendous difference out on the battlefield.
How does the commercial sector help to bring all these assets together?
That's what we are trying to do with the NCCO. We are trying to be a catalyst for pulling all these things together. We call it a one-stop-shop. Another way you can think of it is as a single portal for the state and industry to use that goes down to those assets. Basically, the NCCO allows contractors to hit one single button to get what they need. It also works in reverse. Let's say that one of these special assets wants to advertise what they have. They can come back up the line too.
Indiana is the place where we can do the things that this nation needs to get done at a lower cost with greater value added. Comparing the cost of using similar facilities on the East or West coast, we can do it for less here in Indiana. We have a much better business environment for the companies that are trying to come into the state.
For those who may not know, how does the private sector interface with those inside the fence to develop those solutions?
It can go one of two ways: Let's say that industry, through its own research and processes, identifies a shortfall or requirement that needs to be resolved. They can actually bring those to their government counterparts, present their case, and if the government buys into it then there is a process of getting a request for proposal. The different contractors then submit a proposal. That proposal then goes through a process of review to try to get the best value. Then the contract is awarded. Usually that work is not just a contract job or a government job, but usually it is a combination of both the local government and the contractor working together then to fulfill that requirement.
Now it can be that the government knows there is an issue that needs to be resolved. They can push out a request for information for the contractors to take a look at or they can go straight to a request for proposal and get a proposal back through the same process and award based on that.
As someone who has spent time both in the private sector and the military, what challenges do you see each side facing when they interface with each other to develop those solutions?
First of all I would say both sides have to approach solutions as a team. The abilities of industry and government provide the scenario for a perfect marriage. We both need each other in order to provide the needs for the war fighter.
And having been on both sides of the fence, I think many of us on both the contractor side and those in the government wore a uniform on active duty, though many do not have that active duty or reserve experience. Either way, there is a great inner desire to make sure we equip the war fighter with what he needs in a timely fashion. For many, we have been on the other side, deployed and needed something that maybe we couldn't have gotten our hands on. We understand the urgency, and we know that we are dealing with life and death matters.
Whenever our Special Forces pull that trigger in a split second decision, the reason he is pulling the trigger is because he needs to take the enemy out. We cannot afford failure. We cannot afford for that weapon to misfire and not accomplish its mission. We look at it as lives on the line. It's a 24/7 thing. It used to be us out there, but now it's ours sons, daughters, grandsons and granddaughters. We as a team cannot afford to fail whatsoever.
Now, are there challenges out there? Absolutely. But the key is we have a higher mission and calling, on both sides of government and industry to work together to achieve what takes precedence. Like I said, it's really like a family affair and more like a marriage than anything else.
How does NCCO help bolster that relationship? What function does it play?
First of all we are going to try to be a matchmaker so that we can bring the various government pieces together with the private sector and vice versa. We are going to be using a portal concept so that we can strategically connect the buyer and the seller together.
The second thing is that we will also serve as a promoter for Indiana businesses and the service providers to both the government and private industry side to try to bring the two together. So we are going to be a matchmaker, and we are going to promote the services that we have available to industry and government.
What comprises Indiana's competitive advantage in unmanned systems?
The real operating environment is what makes Indiana a center of excellence for unmanned systems. Sensors, payload development, integration, testing and training with an emphasis on the strategic, tactical and scientific utilization are the ingredients that have converged in Indiana for unmanned systems. Indiana also recognizes strategic values and can offer that to the defense, intelligence, law enforcement, homeland security, and scientific communities. So it is not just the DoD that's interested. There are a host of communities now yearning for unmanned systems. It is definitely a booming area.
Additionally, Indiana's assets include the only brick and mortar full-scale urban environment there is in Muscatatuck. There we can bring in the unmanned systems to operate in a full spectrum environment.
As a pilot and as an instructor at Top Gun how do you view the proliferation of unmanned aerial systems, in particular?
Well you know when I was a young lieutenant at Top Gun as an instructor, I probably would have laughed at you if you would have asked me that question. When I was a lieutenant in the mid-1970s we had not seen or been exposed to this particular technology at all. But now, as the environment has become more complex the addition of these unmanned aerial vehicles is really, truly a welcomed capability. Anything you can add to the mix to increase your probability of success, which also improves your probability of survival, is a plus. It is really looked at in a favorable fashion.
The one thing you have to remember about the fighter business is that there are no points for second place. Anything that ensures I don't come in second, I am going to say is a good thing!
We have covered a lot of ground, but is there anything else you would like to add?
Some of the hard questions that have to be debated and resolved might be: What does constitute a credible force? What is the right mix when we look at the size of the force and the kind of force we are looking at? What are the technologies that are going to be required? What capabilities must we have? How much risk can we afford to take? And with each and every one of the risks we may list, what mitigations do we have at our disposal to rectify the situation that we see developing? So we have some tough challenges out there.
I mean look at the priorities for this 21st century, which really come out of the recently published Strategic Guidance. To have a sustaining U.S. global leadership in a challenging global security environment here are some of the missions we have to cover:
Counter terrorism and irregular warfare; deter and defeat aggression; project power despite anti-access/aerial denial challenges, counter weapons of mass destruction, operate effectively in cyber space and space, maintain a safe and secure nuclear deterrent, defend the homeland and provide support to civil authorities, provide a stabilizing presence, conduct stability and counter insurgency operations, conduct military and disaster relief.
You could probably pick two of those and have your hands full. That list, which comes out of the Strategic Guidance, basically says that our armed forces have to be very capable and very agile. Quite a significant task when you wrap that with the budget and the economy.
So as we debate all these questions that will determine what type, kind and size of military we are going to have, there must be a minimum cut off—a point where you just can't go any leaner.
Want to read more about A State of Defense? Click the image to view the Fall 2012 issue of American Outlook.


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Focus on Neil Everett - Statutory Reporting Manager
I have been in accounting for 10 years! I'll have been at the National Trust for 4 years in January 2012. Before I joined the Trust I worked for DHL as a Finance Manager and before that an Accountant for a manufacturing company so the Trust was the first time I'd worked for a Charity.
I studied Physics at university and wanted a career that involved working with numbers and analytical techniques without the headache of trying to understand the laws of the universe at the same time! I genuinely believe in what the work the Trust does, we live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world and it is really important we protect and preserve our countryside and historic buildings.
My job is to ensure we report everything in the right place in the financial statements and this is no mean feat when you consider how many funds and different types of property the Trust owns. Charity accounting can be very different to privatively run limited companies. It's very challenging from an accounting perspective!
The current Outdoors work stream really strikes a chord with me; it's great to see the Trust promoting its outdoor spaces as giant playgrounds for walking, running, swimming and cycling (all passions of mine!) The Trust has always been extremely supportive with regards to training requests and I am actively encouraged to seek out courses and opportunities to develop. I have been considering a move into project management and I have already been on an introductory training course.
I would say to anyone considering applying to the Trust that it's a very rewarding and challenging place to work.

subset: commoncrawl


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Getting to Hólar
Travelling to Iceland
Iceland is most easily reached by air via Keflavík airport. The country is well connected with daily flights from a range of European and North American cities.
Icelandic airlines:
Click here for information about other airlines
Special bus pickup for passengers traveling to Iceland for the NAF 2013 Conference:
Bus trips have been organized from Reykjavík Bus terminal to Hólar on Wednesday the 12th of June at 10:00 and at 18:00. Return bus will go from Hólar on Saturday the 15th.
Click here to see information about Reykjavik Bus terminal
To get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik Bus terminal use the Flybus)
Registrations for these buses are made through the conference registration form.
Click here for other traveling options (Domestic flight or Rental car)


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Video Seminars
Two of Peter Wade's seminars are online for free viewing. Watch and hear Peter Wade at his best. The seminars are "In Christ, Christ In" and "Dead & Alive."
We hired a professional videographer to shoot this seminar at Charlottesville, West Virginia. It comprises 12 segments, ranging from 14-30 minutes, so you could watch one or two segments at a time and complete the series in a week, if you so desire. It is also a great choice for home fellowships. Free seminar study notes are available in PDF format from a link on the footer of any page of our site.
Learn what God did for us on that wonderful day when we first accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior. What was the result of our faith in Christ? What is our identity? What kind of help do we have along life's way?
The seminar is now available in a 124-page paperback with additional chapters and a complete concordance of the usages of "in Christ" and "Christ in" in their various formats. Get your copy direct from www.PeterWade.com or from other online retailers.
Based on Romans 6:11, "Likewise, you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord" (NKJV).
This seminar by Peter Wade was recorded at a Family Camp in Halls Gap, Victoria, Australia. It comprise 8 sessions, ranging from 24-28 minutes.It is a journey through Romans chapters 6 to 8 and will help you discover the background to Christ's death and resurrection on your behalf, and how to walk on this truth. Learn to win the battle for your mind and be sensitive to Christ within. Understand how you are dead and yet still standing! Deal with the sin problem once and for all.
This is Peter Wade at his best, sharing with great insight, humor, and practicality the truths of Romans chapters 6 to 8, as well as chapter 5:12-25. You will learn the four key words that unlock this whole section, simple yet so profound that it could change your life.
The seminar is also available in a 112-page paperback. Get your copy direct from www.PeterWade.com or from other online retailers.


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During the horrific early months and years of TSW, the nights were so dark, long, and lonely, and the days–though welcomed because of the light–were just as draining and frustrating, with no end in sight. Now here we are, four years later, and I'm amazed how fast the time has flown by! Brian started TSW as a 10 year-old fifth grader, and he's now a 14-year-old 9th grader.
September 2013 ^^^just before TSW September 2017^^^51 months TSW
How's he doing? Well, the cold, dry winter atmosphere has resulted in the usual dry skin; the added experience of being a freshman has contributed to increased stress scratching; and cat dander still results in itching, red patches, and allergy symptoms (benadryl to the rescue!). However, the last few TSW signs/symptoms I've been monitoring–red sleeves, oozing, elephant skin, profuse skin shedding–have not recurred this time. Now, of course he gets the skin flakes from the dry skin, but it doesn't result in tablespoons of skin on the sheets in the morning. In fact, my arms are getting flabby because I'm no longer changing and shaking out sheets every day. I'll exchange flab for TSW any day!
PLEASE REMEMBER: Each person, every BODY is different, in the responses and reactions to medications and in the body's ability to heal. The original skin condition for which you or your child started topical steroids may re-emerge as the TSW process proceeds and comes to a close. Some kids and adults are fortunate enough to go through TSW and have good-looking skin and perhaps no more eczema at the end. However, this is not everybody. SO, don't feel like a failure or that "it's not working for you" just because your skin is not blemish-free and baby-soft at the end of your journey. TSW is a process where the body heals from the accumulated adverse effects of topical steroids, and it can take months to years; It is NOT a cure for eczema or the original skin condition. We have seen in the forums that some people are still having flares or recurrence of TSW symptoms even after 5 years of stopping TS. Why? I don't know. It needs to be researched, and this is why it's so important for you to tell your story to doctors, the FDA, the media, etc.
I posted Brian's most recent progress photos in Pictures. Certainly, the skin is NOT perfect, nor will it probably ever be because dysfunctional skin is in his genes, thanks to me and my hubby. He also probably still has atopic dermatitis–which he chooses to manage without steroids and by not worrying about it. However, he is healthy and active and living life. What more can we ask for our child? 🙂
If you are just starting on this TSW journey, you are not alone. It's a long, painful, difficult rollercoaster process, but for the health and welfare of your child and/or yourself, withdrawing ineffective topical steroids is essential for the body to heal. In addition, appropriate skin/wound care, nutritional, medical, and psychosocial support are needed to address the signs, symptoms, and sequelae of TSW. Find a knowledgeable or at least open-minded doctor who can support you during this process and communicate with others who understand what you're going through.
You do have hope for healing!
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13


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Twenty Reasons to Buy Silver for the Long-Term!
Mark Thomas
Tuesday, December 25th
As the author of www.SilverPriceAdvisor.com I believe that silver could go to $60 per ounce from today's price of just $30 by the end of 2014. That would be double from today's current prices in just a little over two years! I also believe silver will be the best single investment of this decade. The following article is focused on why I think that you should seriously consider having a significant percentage of your investment portfolio in silver.
Many gold investors deride silver as the "poor man's gold" because of its low relative price to gold. They also don't like the fact that it because it is used primarily as an industrial metal it can be negatively affected by a cyclical downturn in the economy. This is opposite of gold which is viewed almost entirely as a precious metal. Many years ago, the silver market was so oversupplied because there were huge artificial inventories of silver. This was because the US took currency (coins) out of circulation due to its physical silver content. Because of this artificial situation, huge surpluses hung over the market until these excess inventories were depleted. This led to silver prices crashing as low as $2 and then traded around $5 for years. Because silver had so decoupled from the price of gold during this period, it began to be thought of as just another industrial metal and not a precious metal.
The Rest…HERE


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On 2 July 2014 UNCTAD held a session on Bioenergy in the context of the SDGs at the African Carbon forum 2014. UNCTADs contribution to the event is part of the Nairobi Framework of Activities attempting to improve the distribution of CDM and low-carbon practices in Africa.
Facing a context of low carbon prices in the CDM markets, African countries are looking for additional ways to promote low-carbon development in the continent. Bioenergy is seen as one of the contributors to low-carbon development, supporting ongoing discussions on the future of CDM. The session was chaired by Mr. Henrique Pacini from UNCTAD and included the participation of Mr. Manuel Chenene (Eduardo Mondlane University, Mozambique), Mr. Thomson Sinkala (Zambia Biofuels Association), Ms. Semida Silveira (Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden) and Mr. Emmanuel Ackom (UNEP Riso Center, Denmark). The session was supported by the Swedish Secretariat for Environmental Earth System Sciences (SSEESS).
At the occasion, UNCTAD presented briefly some of the highlights of its upcoming publication "The State of The Biofuels Market: Regulatory, Trade and Development Perspectives. Those included an increased international emphasis on developing the usage of non-food feedstocks for biofuel production, as well as a general perception that biofuels should enhance mainstream agriculture and not the other way around.
During the event a number of questions were raised about the commercial feasibility of bioenergy projects tied to local development, especially alternative usages of bioenergy such as using ethanol cookstoves to replace timber and charcoal-fired cookstoves - which are environmentally harmful and present health hazards -in poor communities. Participants also discussed the current state of biofuel policy frameworks in countries like Zambia and Mozambique. Mr. Emmanuel Ackholm from UNEP riso illustrated for the case of Cameroon the importance of considering residues from existing agriculture crops not as waste, but as valuable resources for energy generation. The panelists has a long Q&A interaction with the audience, which consisted of CDM and NAMA project developers, African government officials, development banks and NGOs.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
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This article explains the difference between DuraFlex and Mild Steel. More information can be found in the Article on Steel Grades.
Duraflex is also know as K1042 and K1045 (see below for more detail)
Mild Steel (grade 250/350):
Typical uses:
- General Fabrication
- Structural members
- High-rise buildings
- Storage Tanks
It's a medium strength structural steel plate product with nominal yield strength of 250 MPa for grade
250, and nominal strength of 350MPa for grade 350.
Duraflex (or Grade K1042 or K1045*)
Typical uses:
- General engineering parts
- Profile cut gears
- Wear/abrasion applications
A heat treatable plate grade for general engineering applications.
*grade K1042 – made in Australia or New Zealand
*grade K1045 – made Overseas
How does Duraflex differ from Mild Steel was last modified: August 28th, 2015


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Heathrow to Corby: Save Fare & Time Pre-Book Online Today! God Bless
Pick-Up: Heathrow Airport (LHR), London TW6, UK – Drop Off: Corby, Northamptonshire, UK
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Friday, June 1, 2012
Los Angeles Press Club, Part II
On Wednesday, if I had actually taken the time to read the complete list for the upcoming Los Angeles Press Club 2011 Southern California Journalism Awards, I would have known earlier that my long-time friend (who I met during the first Phil Spector trial), Ciaran McEvoy with The Daily Journal, was also a finalist. Below are the categories Ciaran is in:
DAILY/WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS -- under 50K
* Gabe Friedman, Los Angeles Daily Journal, "Corporate Dodge"
* Ciaran McEvoy, Los Angeles Daily Journal, "Award for LA Judge Spurs Ethics Debate"
* Stephen Nellis, Pacific Coast Business Times, "Space Group Took $16 M in Public Funds"
* Dana Olsen, Pacific Coast Business Times, "Tri-Counties at Center of Critical Doctor Deficit"
* Ryan Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Downtown News, "Racism, Sexual Harassment Lawsuits Roil Central Division"
* Patrick Caneday, Glendale News Press, "Small Wonders: Friendliness and a Good Haircut"
* Ciaran McEvoy, Los Angeles Daily Journal, "Layoff Notice Comes at a Bad Time for Mother of Three"
* Joe Piasecki, Pasadena Sun, "A District Divided"
* Joel Russell, Los Angeles Business Journal, "Party Life Too Much for Ad Exec"
* Ryan Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Downtown News, "Building a Better Bar"
Congratulations and best of luck to Ciaran! Ciaran was one of the first mainstream journalists who early on, encouraged me to keep attending trials and advised me to learn to develop a neutral style of reporting. The Daily Journal requires a subscription, but here is a short synopsis of his article in category C1.
Complete list of 2011 finalists can be found here.
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Above a radiator
On a radiator
Hiding in bed
Despite planning ahead and making sure I had all the ingredients I didn't quite get around to trying a new recipe this week. So, instead of writing about someone else's recipe here's a really simple one of mine, though not one to eat!
The ones on the left are very rose, the ones on the right are rose and sandalwood. I also plan to make some with sandalwood and patchouli, some with lemon and eucalyptus, and some Christmassy spiced orange ones. To be honest I'll probably just keep experimenting with scents as the mood takes me.
For the rose bath melts, I made 18 of these
For the rose and sandalwood bath melts, I made 12
Put the cacao butter and almond oil in a double boiler and heat gently, stirring continuously, until the cocoa butter is all melted and the oils are evenly mixed.
Add your choice of essential oils and stir well.
Pour into your choice of moulds or cases; I've used 1/2 to 2/3 filled cupcake cases but you could use petit fours cases or silicone moulds.
Add any flowers or herbs you are using. For them to be mixed through the bath melts add straight away; if you want them to be a finishing touch on the top wait an hour or so, until the melts are starting to set.
Great for gifting or for self indulgence!
There's been a bag of red lentils languishing at the back of my cupboard for months, ever since my disastrous attempt at Baked Rice. I've used countless (well two or three) bags of puy lentils over the course of the year but those red lentils were in danger of becoming long term lurkers. This week I decided that they needed to leave the cupboard and find their way into the pot.
The World Vegetarian Cookbook offered an option to use all my leftover lentils and the Herbed Lentil Stew I chose to make only required me to buy one ingredient, fresh spinach, everything else was already in my kitchen. This was really easy to make and, while cooking took around an hour and a half, preparation took next to know time; it would have taken longer if I'd needed to chop the coriander and crush the garlic but I was cheating a little and using them in ready prepared form. I skipped using the potatoes, the instructions regarding them were vague to say the least and once I got to the mention of them it sounded like I should have cooked them along with the lentils ahead of adding them to the spinach and onion mix. The recipe was also a little muddled on what it's ingredients should be; the ingredients list stated cayenne pepper, which I used, but the method stated black pepper and made no mention of cayenne.
Despite not being as well written as it could have been the stew itself turned out reasonably well. It was certainly filling and was tasty enough, though it wasn't as good reheated as it was cooked fresh. Not something I'll be in a rush to cook again but not something I'd rule out either.
3 out of 5 for ease of cooking and clarity of instructions (if it wasn't so easy it would be scoring less).
3 out of 5 for tastiness.
Normally if I have a day at home on my own there seem to be a never ending procession of chores that I need to catch up with, sometimes though I get a day when all I need to do is whatever I want to do; yesterday was one of the latter. I've been wanting to make more use of the mint from the garden so I started the day by finding a recipe for apple and mint jelly, simmering the fruit with a bunch of mint and leaving it to strain for several hours while I did other things.
Next on the to do list was setting the bread maker to work. I only needed to bake for me this week so I decided to indulge myself with Carrot and Fennel Bread from The Cook's Encyclopedia of Bread Machine Baking. First grate your carrots! Then decide on a couple of tweaks to the recipe; I don't have skimmed milk powder (or even almond milk powder at the moment) and I've not been keen on the texture of other loaves I've used sunflower oil in, so I replaced the oil with goats' butter and ignored the powdered milk altogether. Then it was a case of letting the machine do it's thing. Four hours later this loaf was the deliciously scented and rather tasty result:
Coffee was my next priority and, as the kitten was sleeping, I decided to spend an hour knitting while I indulged in my caffeine habit. I've a couple of projects on the needles to choose from but I'd rather like to have the current scarf project finished to give as a birthday present later this month, though realistically it might end up as a Christmas present. I'm enjoying the slightly crazy yarn I'm working with even though I'm experiencing a touch of mid-point tedium with the project itself. I suspect it's the type of yarn you either love or hate, I'm fairly confident the intended recipient will love it.
From the sofa back to the kitchen to make bath melts. I came up with the basic recipe for these several months ago, and have enjoyed some myself and gifted others. As I was finishing my coffee prior to making yesterday's batch I received a hint from the last person I made some for that they might like some for Christmas, I think this is a recipe I should be writing up!
After making the bath melts and putting them aside to set I stopped for a late lunch before doing the dishes. It's amazing how much easier washing up is when you're doing it to create the space to do something fun rather than just because it needs to be done! A bit more knitting and some play time with the cats had to be fitted in, then it was time to make the jelly. Chopping the mint that was going to be mixed in at the end took quite some time but eventually I was happy that I had enough and that it was fine enough. Jars went into the oven and jelly making proper began. This was a slightly experimental jelly in that I was using my sugar thermometer to tell me when it was at setting point; normally I test for set using the chilled plate technique but, since it was a relatively small batch and I would have time in the week to reboil it if needs be, I thought it a worthwhile experiment. Initially it did seem quite liquid in but today it looks like it has set properly, obviously the true test will come when we sample it. I have to say, I think it looks rather pretty in the jars, hopefully it will taste as good as it looks.
This week was one of those weeks where I was trying as much as possible to cook from the larder and freezer and avoid shopping, it was also a week when the Railway Modeller needed packed lunches every day. Given the choice between flapjack and cake, cake was requested so my challenge was to find a cake recipe I hadn't used before that I had all the ingredients for. The only one I could find which answered the challenge and which I could eat, I wasn't going to miss out on cake if I was baking, was the Coffee and Pecan Nut Cake in the recipe booklet which came with my breadmaker.
The only catch was that the pecans, left over from last Christmas, were still in their shells. It took about an hour but I eventually had my three ounces of pecans, it's just as well the recipe wanted them chopped though as they were nowhere near whole. Using a loaf tin liner to line the breadmaker, no more messing about and making a mess with greaseproof paper, and the food processor to do the mixing all other aspects of baking were a doddle.
I found the pecans a little oily but do like their flavour, maybe pre-shelled ones would be better. In this cake's favour ground coffee brewed in the percolator gave a much nicer flavour than instant coffee as used in the American Coffee Bread I wrote about in this-bread-is-a-cake. The Railway Modeller said he found the cake slightly dry, I think the texture of the Coffee Bread would probably be more to his taste. Neither of us disliked it but I don't think either of us would say this was the best cake I'd ever baked. I have ideas though; Turkish Coffee and Hazelnut Cake might be the first recipe of my own devising I try in the breadmaker.
Coffee and pecan cake gets 5 out of 5 for clear instructions and ease of making (most people wouldn't be idiotic enough to start with pecans in the shell).
It gets 4 out of 5 for flavour but it was let down by the texture.
Welcome to the world of cats!
wonders of bread machine: baking bread and beyond
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Quietly, a new offensive against the United States is being prepared by Canada over scallops-- A major US-Canadian fishing treaty negotiated by the Carter administration hit the rocks in the Democratic-controlled Senate last year. New England fisherman got Democratic senators to block it in a try for higher scallop quotas. Canadian diplomats reacted angrily, saying the treaty was a key issue in bilateral relations.
Now a Reagan White House and Republican Senate are expected to pass the treaty, with perhaps minor changes.m


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Back Pain: Neurogenic/ Discogenic
CT Scan
See Also:
Back Pain: Vertebral Compression Fractures
There are many types of therapeutic injections for back and joint pain—epidural
injection, medial branch neurotomy, facet joint injection, and sacro-iliac joint
injection, among others. In most instances, a long-acting cortisone medication
is placed in area of the "pain generator". This may reduce the pain
for weeks or even months, when it is successful. These injections never cure
a spine problem, but they can relieve pain to some degree and reduce inflammation
while nature heals, or while physical therapy helps a person control the pain.
Epidural steroid injections are the most common injection therapy
for back pain, and are generally effective at relieving chronic
back and/or leg pain due to inflammation in the spinal canal. They
are most effective for patients with an acute disc herniation or
for spinal stenosis.
Spinal injections have been used to treat back pain since the early
1900s, and epidural steroid injections were first used in 1952 to
treat back pain with sciatica (pain in the sciatic nerve caused by
herniation of the lumbar disc). Today, epidural steroid injections
are an important part of VIA physicians' management of back
While its effects tend to be temporary, with relief lasting one
week to one year, an epidural can be very beneficial for patients
during a severe back pain episode. With pain managed by an epidural,
a patient can progress with rehabilitation and the injury or irritation
which caused the pain can heal.
An epidural will significantly reduce pain for about 75% of patients.
It works by delivering steroidal anti-inflammatory medications directly
to the injured or irritated area to help reduce the inflammation
that may be causing the pain. Some researchers believe that the injection
can help remove or "flush out" inflammatory proteins from
the painful area.
Epidural Steroid Injections are not effective for disc pain, facet
joint pain, or other sources of back pain. For facet joint pain,
your physician may recommend:
Medial Branch Neurotomy – A procedure in which the nerve to
the facet joint is heated.
Facet Joint Injections – These injections can be helpful when
the facet joint is the pain generator.
An epidural is an injection that delivers steroids directly into
the epidural space. Sometimes a flushing solution (either lidocaine
or normal saline) is also used to help "flush out" inflammatory
proteins from around the area that may be the source of pain.
The epidural space is the space between the dura mater (a membrane)
and the vertebral wall and is filled with fat and small blood vessels.
It is located just outside the dural sac. The dural sac surrounds
the nerve roots and cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid that the nerve
roots are bathed in).
There are often inflammatory factors and other substances that generate
pain (e.g. substance P) that are associated with lumbar disc herniation,
and this inflammation can cause significant nerve root irritation
and swelling.
Steroids (corticosteroids) have been shown to reduce inflammation
by inhibiting the production of substances that cause inflammation,
the epidural injection can be highly effective because it delivers
the medication directly to the site of inflammation.
In general, epidural injections are used to help provide pain relief
to enable patients to progress with their rehabilitation. Individuals
who have less pain and feel more comfortable are generally able
to work on the active therapies – such as stretching, strengthening/pain
relief exercises and low impact aerobic conditioning – that
are critical in rehabilitating the lower back.
Several common conditions – including lumbar disc herniation,
degenerative disc disease, and lumbar spinal stenosis – can
cause severe acute or chronic low back and/or leg pain. For these
and other conditions that can cause chronic pain, an epidural steroid
injection may be an effective non-surgical treatment option.
An epidural steroid injection usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
The patient lies flat on an x-ray table on their abdomen. Prior
to the injection, the skin is numbed with lidocaine, which is similar
to the novocaine that the dentist uses (a "local" anesthetic).
Many types of physicians perform epidural injections, including
anesthesiologists, interventional radiologists, neurologists, physiatrists
and surgeons. Using fluoroscopy (live x-ray) for guidance, the physician
directs a needle toward the epidural space. Fluoroscopy is considered
important in guiding the needle into the epidural space, as controlled
studies have found that medication is misplaced in 13% to 34% of
epidural injections that are done without fluoroscopy.
Once the needle is in the exact position, the steroid solution is
injected. Following the injection, the patient is usually monitored
for 15 to 20 minutes before being discharged to go home.
Sedation is available for patient anxiety and comfort. However,
sedatives are rarely necessary, as the procedure is usually not uncomfortable.
If a sedative is used, the patient will need to be monitored for
a longer period following the injection.
Patients are usually asked to rest on the day of the epidural steroid
injection. Normal activities (those that were done the week prior
to the injection) may typically be resumed the following day.
The benefits of the epidural steroid injections include a reduction
in pain, primarily in leg pain. Patients seem to have a better
response when the injections are coupled with an organized therapeutic
exercise program.
While the effects of an epidural injection tend to be temporary—providing
relief from pain for one week up to one year—an epidural can
be very beneficial for patients during an episode of severe back
pain. Importantly, it can provide sufficient pain relief to allow
the patient to progress with their rehabilitation program.
An epidural is generally successful in relieving pain for approximately
50% of patients. If a patient does not experience any pain relief
from the first injection, further injections will probably not be
beneficial. However, if there is some improvement in pain, one to
two additional injections may be recommended.
As with all invasive medical procedures, there are potential risks
associated with lumbar (lower back) epidural steroid injections.
Generally, however, there are few risks associated with epidural
injections and they tend to be rare. Risks may include:
Paralysis is not a risk since there is no spinal cord in the region
of the epidural steroid injection.
In addition to risks from the injection, there are also potential
risks and side effects from the steroid medication. These side effects
from an epidural steroid injection tend to be rare. Side effects
from steroids are more common when taken daily for several months.
Risks and side effects may include:
Lumbar epidural steroid injections should not be performed on patients
who have a local or systemic bacterial infection, are pregnant (if
fluoroscopy is used) or have bleeding problems. Epidurals should
also not be performed on patients whose pain is from a tumor or infection,
and if suspected, an MRI scan should be done prior to the injection
to rule out these conditions.
Injections may be done, but with extreme caution, for patients with
allergies to the injected solution, uncontrolled medical problems
(such as congestive heart failure and diabetes), and those who are
taking aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs (e.g. Ticlid, Plavix).
There is no definitive research to dictate the frequency of epidural
steroid injections for low back pain and/or leg pain. In general,
it is considered reasonable to perform up to three injections per
Typically, epidural injections are done in two-week intervals. However,
there is no general consensus in the medical community as to whether
or not a series of three injections need always be performed. If
one or two injections lessen the patient's low back and/or
leg pain, some physicians prefer to save the third injection for
any potential recurrences of back pain later in the twelve-month period.
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text:
Entry in The Encyclopedia of Newfoundland
Fishing and farming were the early economic mainstays of Chamberlains and it was also, like Topsail and Manuels, much frequented by people from St. John's as a summer resort. By the 1850's Chamberlains was connected by road to St. John's, which provided a close market for produce. Other employment included, mining at Bell Island qv and some sawmilling. After 1945 the majority of the labour force commuted to St. John's, where many residents had found defense-related jobs during WWII. Some farming and service-industry jobs in the Chamberlains area provided other employment. Churches and schools were also attended in the Topsail-Manuels area.
Elaine Hyde (1973)
E.R. Seary (1971)
Census (1845-1966)
Lovell's Newfoundland Directory (1871)


text:
A 2019 Ford Ranger prototype mule was captured testing on the streets near the Ford Dearborn, Michigan, plant.
Ford appears to already be testing the US-bound Ranger ahead of the truck's reintroduction to the states in 2019. At a glance, its hard to tell if this version looks much different than the Ranger sold globally now. The North American version may wear its own unique styling though, as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) markets that most mid-size pickups are developed for seem to prefer more aerodynamic, car-like styling for their pickups.
It is eexpected that the Ranger will be offered with a full complement of Ecoboost four- and six-cylinder engines, and perhaps a diesel like the new 2018 Ford F-150. Ford may use the direct injected twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 as the premium choice. Ford's new ten-speed automatic, co-developed with GM, is also expected on the reintroduction of Fords mid-size pickup.
Its also expected that two-wheel drive will be the standard option, with part-time four-wheel drive available as an option. The Ranger should be unveiled sometime in 2018.
Narrower Ford F-150 Hybrid Prototype Photographed - Do you Want One?
5 Things: 2018 Ford F-150 Raptor


text:
I can almost feel the warmth on my face. Oops...back to reality.
(all images from MD Perrot Workshop)
how pretty. i bet i can become more inspired over there too.
This sounds SO delightful, stress-free and inspiring. I don't paint {so not talented that way ;)} but I would love to come along!
What a great way to keep your memories close at heart. I can't wait til you go and come back and post all your beautiful paintings.
Sounds perfect, Kris! Hope you have a wonderful weekend.
It's amazing how looking at these painting can take me to another world entirely! I can almost smell the flowers and feel more tranquil and at ease instantly! Beautiful, just beautiful! How I envy anybody who can create art like this! Thank you for sharing my dear Kris! Also, thank you for your too~sweet words always on my site! You are so sweet and eloquent!
Best wishes for a wonderful day!
Hello Miss Kriss,
I have been "book tagged" and now I am tagging you. It is quick and fun come to my blog to find out.
This sounds perfect to me. Only 6 more weeks and spring will be here.
i want to come
join pleinairartists.ning.com and advertise your workshop to our members there
pleinairartists.ning.com Join us.
Don Maier


text:
Why the Supreme Court will strike down DOMA
The following contribution to our same-sex marriage symposium is written by Andrew Koppelman, John Paul Stevens Professor of Law and Professor of Political Science at Northwestern University. He has written many books and articles, including Same Sex, Different States: When Same-Sex Marriages Cross State Lines (Yale U. Press 2006).
The Supreme Court is not likely to impose same-sex marriage on the entire country, so Perry v. Schwarzenegger has been a quixotic case from the beginning. That's why experienced gay rights litigators were so reluctant to support it. The Court is likely to find some procedural trick in order to avoid hearing the case at all.
The challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is different. The Court can strike down this stupid and brutal law without bringing same-sex marriage to any state that does not want it. Its unconstitutionality follows from recent opinions by Justice Kennedy, the swing vote on the Court, and I predict that he will write the opinion striking the law down.
DOMA, enacted in 1996, was a reaction to a Hawaii Supreme Court case that seemed likely to legalize same-sex marriage there. A state referendum stopped that, but the case focused public attention on the marriage issue and so triggered a national movement. A quarter of all Americans now live in states that recognize same-sex marriage or its functional equivalent.
In pertinent part, DOMA defines marriage for federal purposes as "only a legal union between one man and one woman as husband and wife." (It also declares that states don't have to recognize same-sex marriages from other states, but that was already the law.) Same-sex spouses may not file joint tax returns. The debts of same-sex spouses incurred under divorce decrees or separation agreements are dischargeable in bankruptcy. Same-sex spouses of federal employees are excluded from the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance program, and the Federal Employees Compensation Act, which compensates the widow or widower of an employee killed in the performance of duty. Same-sex spouses are the only surviving widows and widowers who do not have automatic ownership rights in a copyrighted work after the author's death. Same-sex spouses lack federal protection against enforcement of due-on-sale clauses, which allow a lender to declare the entire balance due and payable if mortgaged property is transferred, and which could compel the loss of the family home if the holder of the mortgage died and the spouse inherited the property. Same-sex spouses are denied the benefit of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, which provides for unpaid leave to employees for "care for a spouse." Same-sex spouses may not receive benefits under the Social Security Act's Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program. Same-sex spouses are denied preferential treatment under immigration law and, therefore, are the only legally married spouses of American citizens who face deportation. With the abolition of "don't ask, don't tell," it is only a matter of time before, for the first time in American history, the lawful spouse of a soldier killed in battle is denied any survivor's benefits.
By the end of 2008, approximately 32,000 same-sex couples had married in the United States, and 80,000 more were domestic partners, reciprocal beneficiaries, or united in civil unions. That creates a situation that did not exist immediately after DOMA's enactment: a group of actual people whom the law hurts. They are the ones challenging DOMA.
The plaintiffs in these cases, Gill v. Office of Personnel Management and Windsor v. United States, include:
– a police officer whose family would receive no benefits, including the education benefit for surviving spouses, if she were killed in the line of duty.
– the surviving spouse of Representative Gerry Studds, the first openly gay man to serve in Congress, who was denied both health insurance and the normal survivor annuity "" the only widower of a member of Congress to be refused these benefits.
– elderly retirees who do not have the Social Security benefits they would have received if their spouse were of the opposite sex.
– a widow who paid $363,000 in federal taxes on her inheritance from her wife, a tax that would never have been imposed on an opposite-sex spouse.
The district court in Gill held that DOMA violates the Fourteenth Amendment, which provides in pertinent part that no state may "deny to any person . . . the equal protection of the laws." The Supreme Court will likely agree.
The Equal Protection Clause is the reason the Court has struck down laws that impose certain inequalities, such as the race discrimination that was challenged in Brown v. Board of Education. But it does not make sense to condemn all inequalities imposed by the law. All laws classify "" and in that way make some citizens unequal to others. A law that forbids ten-year-olds from driving or voting treats them unequally from those who are permitted to do these things.
So the law only presumes laws to be unconstitutional if they discriminate on the basis of race, sex, or a few other "suspect classifications." Eric Holder's February 23 letter to House Speaker John Boehner, declaring that the Obama Administration will no longer defend the constitutionality of DOMA, argues that the factors that indicate suspectness in each of those cases also apply to sexual orientation: a history of purposeful discrimination, immutability, limited political power, and a conclusion that the trait in question bears no relation to ability to perform or contribute to society.
The Court hasn't recognized a new suspect classification in decades, but it won't need to take that step in order to strike down this law. For non-suspect classifications, the constitutional test is what is called rational basis review: the law will be upheld in court if it is "rationally related to a legitimate state interest" (New Orleans v. Dukes). This usually means that the law will be upheld. In a few rare cases, however, the Court has used the rational basis test to strike down laws. In these cases, the Court deploys what scholars have called "rational basis with bite," to distinguish it from the toothless test that is ordinarily applied. This is the basis on which the Court is likely to invalidate DOMA.
The basis for this greater severity of scrutiny is not always clear. One line of decisions offers an explanation. These hold that a law is unconstitutional if it reflects a bare desire to harm a politically unpopular group. USDA v. Moreno invalidated a 1971 amendment to the Food Stamp Act that excluded from participation in the food stamp program any member of a household whose members are not all related to each other. Congress, the legislative history showed, was attempting to prevent "hippie communes" from receiving any stamps. The Court held that this purpose was fatal to the statute: "[I]f the constitutional concept of "equal protection of the laws' means anything, it must at the very least mean that a bare congressional desire to harm a politically unpopular group cannot constitute a legitimate governmental interest." The law in Moreno had no purpose other than to keep federal benefits out of the hands of a group Congress did not like.
Moreno became relevant to the gay rights question in Romer v. Evans, a 1996 case that struck down an amendment to the Colorado Constitution (referred to on the ballot as "Amendment 2"). The amendment declared that neither the state nor any of its subdivisions could prohibit discrimination on the basis of "homosexual, lesbian or bisexual orientation, conduct, practices or relationships." The amendment, Justice Kennedy's opinion for the Court observed, "has the peculiar property of imposing a broad and undifferentiated disability on a single named group." The Amendment seemed to "deprive[] gays and lesbians even of the protection of general laws and policies that prohibit arbitrary discrimination in governmental and private settings." The Court concluded that "Amendment 2 classifies homosexuals not to further a proper legislative end but to make them unequal to everyone else." Quoting Moreno, it found that the broad disability imposed on a targeted group "raise[d] the inevitable inference that the disadvantage imposed is born of animosity toward the class of persons affected." Romer's holding may thus be summarized: If a law targets a narrowly defined group and then imposes upon it disabilities that are so broad and undifferentiated as to bear no discernible relationship to any legitimate governmental interest, then the Court will infer that the law's purpose is simply to harm that group, and so will invalidate the law.
DOMA's definitional provision and the amendment invalidated in Romer have telling similarities. Like the Colorado amendment, DOMA "identifies persons by a single trait [membership in a same-sex marriage] and then denies them protection across the board." For the first time in American history, DOMA created a set of second-class marriages, valid under state law but void for all federal purposes. The indiscriminate exclusion of a class of valid state marriages from all federal recognition is "unprecedented in our jurisprudence." DOMA cuts off federal benefits to a targeted, politically unpopular group, just like the law in Moreno, and it does so in a remarkably broad and undifferentiated way, just like the law in Romer. Some of the government's rationales for the law that were stated in the House Committee Report """defending traditional notions of morality, and preserving scarce government resources" "" were presented and rejected in Moreno and Romer. (This analysis is elaborated here.)
The Court's sensitivity to discrimination against gays was also evident in Lawrence v. Texas, a 2003 Kennedy opinion striking down a law against homosexual sex. Kennedy thought that Romer was pertinent because "[w]hen homosexual conduct is made criminal by the law of the State, that declaration in and of itself is an invitation to subject homosexual persons to discrimination both in the public and in the private spheres."
So it is very easy to imagine Kennedy's opinion striking down DOMA. It will simply apply Romer and Lawrence. Attorney General Holder is right that the "moral disapproval of gays and lesbians and their intimate and family relationships" evident in the legislative record reflects "precisely the kind of stereotype-based thinking and animus the Equal Protection Clause is designed to guard against." But you don't need the legislative record. The wild lashing out at gay families is plain on the face of the statute, and suffices to show that the law is unconstitutional.
Recommended Citation: Andrew Koppelman, Why the Supreme Court will strike down DOMA, SCOTUSblog (Aug. 19, 2011, 8:44 AM), https://www.scotusblog.com/2011/08/why-the-supreme-court-will-strike-down-doma/


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If you're not using mobile marketing — or if your strategy needs a face-lift — you are missing out on new business. A full 88 percent of U.S. adults now own a smartphone, and those in the millennial generation are the heaviest users, at a whopping 98 percent, according to Nielsen research. Bottom line: If customers can't "see" you as they use their devices to browse and search, you don't exist. With these tips, you can direct the spotlight on your small business.
Instagram it: If you know how to leverage this photo-sharing social media app, you'll have one powerful but inexpensive marketing tool at your fingertips. Sure, you'll want to post beautiful images of your most popular offerings. But you can also show different sides of your brand. Post brief videos and behind-the-scenes peeks. Grow your following with a fun promotion. For example, at the start of the farmers market season, hand out branded tote bags and offer a percentage off to customers who post photos of their hauls.
Up the app ante: Most major brands offer an app, but the truth is, customers tend to abandon these after a few uses. If an app makes sense for your business, make it worth their valuable phone space. It should do more than just promote — the app needs to serve a purpose, like clipping mobile coupons or tracking purchases for a loyalty program. Don't forget to sneak in the occasional super sweet deal or freebie — such as a power bank embossed with your brand and logo — so the customer feels richly rewarded for taking the time to open your app.
Embrace Messenger marketing: Some believe social media messaging platforms such as Facebook Messenger may one day take the place of call centers. That's why it's important to engage now. Keep your social media content fresh, and designate someone to handle inquiries, especially during business hours. When you get pinged, whether it's a new customer query or a complaint, be sure and close your response on a strong note: Offer a small gift. That means you'll want to maintain a stash of planners, pens, pocket flashlights, T-shirts and commuter mugs so you're ready to make a lasting impression when these social media customers walk in your door.
Get listed, be seen: When people are new to your city or neighborhood, they will be tapping in to their mobile devices to find you. Fortunately, a little digital housekeeping may be all that's needed to rocket your name to the top of the list. Update the online directories at the three major search engines: Google My Business, Bing Places for Business and Yahoo Local. Claim your profiles on Yelp and Manta. Don't forget to search for local directories, such as through your local newspaper and business clubs. Finally, take time to work through this list of online business directories.
Today, mobile marketing is a force to be reckoned with. Keep your brand on people's minds by cultivating a strong mobile presence.


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The Supreme Court reconstituted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to monitor probe into black money case by appointing Justice M B Shah as its chairperson.
The court also appointed Justice Arijit Passayat, a retired Supreme Court judge, as the vice chairperson of the SIT.
On July, 2011, the apex court had ordered for setting up of SIT but the government had opposed the same and filed a review petition before the court for recalling of its order.
In March this year, the bench had dismissed the government's review plea.
Meanwhile, the apex court also ordered the government to provide within three days the details of 26 Indians who stashed money in in Liechtenstein Bank in Germany.
Out of the 26 names, investigation against 18 individuals is over and prosecution had been launched against 17 by the Income Tax department while one person has died, the Centre had said earlier to the court.
Appearing for the central government, solicitor general Mohan Parasharan said the names were procured by the government from German authority and submitted two sealed envelops containing names of 18 people and their accounts detail in one envelop and names of 8 other people in another sealed cover.
Filing the affidavit through joint secretary of revenue department, finance ministry, the Centre said in the list od 26 names of Indian origin included 12 trusts —Ambrunova Trust reg. And Marline Management, Manichi trust, Ruvish trust, Dainese Stifung and Dryade Stiftung, Urvashi Foundation, Raj Foundation.
The information regarding outstanding amounts in the accounts maintained by 12 trusts with LGT Bank in Liechtenstein was received by the government of India from the Greman Tax Authority in March 2009..," as per the affidavits.


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I was very disappointed that "the Strip Is Back!" depicted Las Vegas as a sexy, sinful "playground for adults" [Aug. 2]. I have been to the city on many occasions with my husband and young children. Las Vegas is an elegant and entertaining city of great hotels and restaurants, wonderful shows and child-friendly arcades. But the pictures of strip clubs in your story were off-putting. You even made the Mandalay Bay's casino look seedy and cheap. What did you intend to do, keep middle-class people from visiting?
Monica Stevens
Farmington, Michigan,...
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Metallic seems to be the new thing. To match our freshly bought Maison Margiela Candy wallet, we're buying these Metallic Oxfords by Louboutin.
This time, no incredible red-soled high-heels. Louboutin designed a pair of Oxfords in metallic pink and blue. Oxfords are everywhere on the streets now, but they are usually brown leathered. I must say: I like this version.
What do you think? Would you wear them? Or are you more of a high-heeled Louboutin kinda person?


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With wedding season in full swing, many of us may find ourselves overwhelmed with searching for the perfect dress(es), deciding which colour makeup to wear, or how to do our hair differently for several different occasions.
And what's the cardinal rule of weddings? Don't overshadow the bride. Whether you're a bridesmaid or a guest, you want to look elegant and put together without stealing the bride's thunder. Of course, wearing a white dress is a major no-no, but makeup rules are a little bit trickier. And while sticking with neutrals is often a safe bet, it isn't always the most interesting.
So, how do we stand out, look elegant, and make sure not to overshadow the bride? Get The Look has 3 summer wedding makeup ideas for each type of wedding you attend!
If you're attending a classic, traditional type wedding, stick to the same classic look when applying your makeup for the evening. Opt for a bold red lip that will stand out amongst the crowd, but pair it with minimal eye makeup – think light brown shadow and a bit of mascara – In order not to overshadow the bride with a dramatic, stand-out look.
If you're attending a backyard wedding with a fun, playful environment, play around with your look and try out a colourful shadow and lip. To keep your bold look low-key, opt for a pastel shade or a light colour (think light purple with a little shimmer) shadow, and create contrast with a bright pink lip. Finish off with a touch of mascara and a little highlighter to create an angelic look.
Attending a paradise beach wedding? Enhance your sun-kissed glow with shades of gold, brown, and nude for the ultimate bronzed goddess beach-babe look. To start, unify your complexion, then powder the apples of your cheeks with bronzer. Use a golden shade of brown shadow on your upper lids, and create a shadow by sweeping it underneath your lower lash line as well. Apply a few coats of mascara on your lashes, and finish off the look with a nude shade of lipstick with brown undertones. This will enhance your natural beauty without taking any attention away from the bride!


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The distinction of AMC resides in its philosophy which permeates through the mission, the objectives, the curriculum, social life and all other issues related tto the wellbeing of the student population, staff and parents.
The program at Academie Marie-Claire is departmentalized. Each class and each subject is taught by a "specialist". The concept of a "Home Room" in its traditional meaning does not exist. This is a fundamental and critical nuance that crystallizes the approach to teaching from preschool to primary. Unique features that form an integral part of the fabric of the Acadmie are noted below are supplemental by:
- Small class size
- Departmentalized Program
- Teacher Specialists
- Homework/Study Program
- Extended hours
- Meals cooked on premise
- Educational Technology Program (includes preschool and kindergarten)
- Smartboard in every classroom
- Personal laptops in upper grades
- Decentralized library system
- Electronic research library
- Reading Program
- Leadership Program


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The Science Behind Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia tends to be a condition where people think it's all in the sufferer's head. They believe that the person experiencing the widespread pain, sleep deprivation and other problems associated with fibromyalgia are creating their own discomfort simply because they think they're sick.
Dr. Robert M. Bennett, a Professor of Medicine at the Oregon Health Sciences University says that even today the condition is sometimes dismissively treated with cynical overtones. This is even though it's become what the doctor calls a "semi-respectable diagnosis" within the last decade in the United States.
Why the Cynicism?
According to Dr. Bennett, who has treated more than 5,000 fibromyalgia patients in 20 years, most diagnoses in the medical field is based on distinctive symptoms and the symptom's relationship to specific tissue pathology.
Fibromyalgia isn't a condition that's easily understood according to the traditional medical model of diagnosis and treatment. For some doctors, this is enough for them to consider it a fake disease or a psychological or psychological condition.
In reality, fibromyalgia isn't a psychological or psychological condition. But those who become disabled by fibro can get a psychological or psychological condition like depression and anxiety problems.
Fibromyalgia Basics
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain state according to the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA). The nerves causing the pain or typically in the muscle which is why pain is aggravated when the muscles are used a lot.
While it's necessary for general human health to feel pain - pain can reduce the chance of more injury - pain sensation in fibro sufferers can be excruciating and debilitating.
The Science Behind Pain
Medical researchers are beginning to study what is seen as the enigma of chronic pain. Chronic pain is experienced by many diseases and conditions including fibromyalgia. This continued research will ultimately aid in the discovery of new treatment options and an increased recognition of fibromyalgia as a very real illness.
Biomedical Abnormality
Some studies suggest that fibromyalgia is caused by low levels of the chemical serotonin. This chemical is found in everyone's body regardless of their health. It plays an important role in regulating pain and controlling sleep. Blood tests confirm that those who suffer from fibromyalgia have low serotonin levels.
Scientists aren't completely sure why this is the case. Serotonin levels are connected to the production of 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid and tryptophan (an amino acid crucial to the production of serotonin) in the spinal fluid. Research hasn't come far enough to determine precisely why the production of these acids seems to not properly function in the person with fibro.
Other studies show that fibro sufferers have two to three times the substance P. This is a neuropeptide in the spinal fluid. Increased levels of substance P heighten a person's awareness to pain and increases a person's overall sensitivity to pain.
Researchers believe that the production of substance P might be the reason why fibromyalgia development is triggered by injury or trauma to the spin. Since substance P is produced in the spine, an injury to this area of the body could cause overproduction of the neuropeptide which could trigger fibromyalgia.
Lack of Sleep a Cause?
There is also some scientific research that suggests that fibromyalgia might be caused by lack of deep sleep. There are different stages to sleep and each stage has a purpose. During stage four REM sleep the muscles in the body heal themselves to a certain extent. Sleep studies in people with fibromyalgia show that they tend to not enter this stage of sleep or not enter it completely.
In medical studies researchers were able to recreate symptoms of fibromyalgia in healthy volunteers by not allowing them to enter into stage four sleep.
Sleep problems appear to cause a vicious circle with fibromyalgia. They could possibly be the cause of the syndrome, but they're also a symptom since those with widespread pain tend to be too uncomfortable to sleep.
Post a comment
Neither my PCP nor my Rheumatologist have diagnosed me with fibromyalgia. My sleep doctor put me on CPAP but I still feel so sleepy I fall asleep over my keyboard in the early afternoon. The sleep doctor prescribed Nuvigil, which keeps me awake. My pain moves from knee to elbow and from left side to right side. Last week it was in the middle of my chest, moved as the weekend started to my elbows, and now is in my right elbow. I agree the sleep/pain cycle is what leads me to believe I have fibromyalgia.


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9.2 SP3 Upgrade Scripts - Oracle
The following implementation scripts must be run on your Responder Oracle database to add the correct tables, views, and indices to upgrade Responder to version 9.2 SP3. When upgrading Responder execute ONLY the Upgrade script(s) that fall between your previous release and the new release to which you are upgrading. Do NOT execute any Implementation Scripts.
Responder requires two schemas: Responder and Archive. Some scripts are run on the Responder schema and some on the Archive schema. In the list below, the schema on which the script should be executed is in parentheses.
920sp3_01_RxTables_oracle.sql (Responder)
920sp3_02_ArchiveTables_oracle.sql (Archive)
920sp3_03_ArcJoinViews_oracle.sql (Responder)TIP: The instructions below do not execute the scripts in the order listed above. Note that the first and third scripts are executed on the Responder database first. The second script is executed on the Archive database last. The instructions execute them in this order simply for the implementer's convenience.
- Log in to the Responder schema as RESPONDER (i.e., schema owner). Use an application such as SQL Plus.
- Execute the 920sp3_01_RxTables_oracle.sql script by entering
"@" followed by a path to the script (an example follows) and pressing
Enter. This script creates the database tables required by Responder.
@ D:\Program Files\Miner and Miner\Responder\Developer Resources\ 9.2.0 SP2 - 9.2.0 SP3 Upgrade Scripts\Oracle\920sp3_01_RxTables_oracle.sql
- The 920sp3_03_ArcJoinViews_oracle.sql script creates the
views that are used to display Responder data in ArcMap. Execute 920sp3_03_ArcJoinViews_oracle.sql
using a similar statement as in step 2. Even if you executed this
script as part of the initial implementation, execute it again. NOTE: Before executing this script, you will need to modify the feature class names within it to match those in your geodatabase. Open the script and ensure that the feature class names in the script match the corresponding feature class names in your geodatabase. If you have done this for a previous release, you may use the prior script and copy/paste the new views into it. This would prevent the need to re-update feature class names for all views.
- Log in to the Archive schema as ARCHIVE (i.e., schema owner).
- Execute the 920sp3_02_ArchiveTables_oracle.sql script in the same manner as the first script. Enter "@" followed by a path to the script and press Enter. This script creates the database tables required by Responder Archive Explorer.


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Surprise Her
Girls love surprises. By taking the time to surprise her, you're showing that she's special to you and that you want to make her happy. What girl wouldn't be flattered by that kind of attention?
A common misconception among guys is that you have to spend a lot of money to surprise and please a girl. This is a total myth; surprising someone isn't about the most expensive gift you can buy. It's the little things in life are most important. Skip the pricey bouquet of flowers or piece of jewelry, and plan an unexpected date for any ordinary evening instead. Take her to see the new romantic comedy that she's dying to see, even if you'd rather watch the newest action flick. Test your culinary skills by cooking dinner for her -- and eat dessert first!
It's easy to get in a rut and go through the day-to-day motions in a relationship. If you find yourself yearning for a little adventure, you're not alone! The right amount of spontaneity is healthy in any partnership; it rejuvenates your romance by keeping things interesting. While you don't want to shock the girl you like with a tattoo of her first name across your back, a little spontaneity is never a bad thing. A surprise can be as simple as switching up your usual routine. Explore a new part of town together on a whim, or take a stroll through the local farmers market. If you're passing a park, pretend like you're kids again, and play on the swing set or seesaw. Surprising a girl with your sense of adventure is sure to make her smile.


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Shopping Tips
The ins and outs of participating in Hong Kong's favourite sport.
Asia's world city is bursting with enough retail and dining options to keep the hungriest bargain-hunter weighed down with shopping bags and confounded by menu options for years. Here are some tips to make your shopping and dining mission in Hong Kong even easier.


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I bet you were begining to wonder where I had got to. The truth is very boring, I wish I could say I was too busy to write because I was busy having wild sex here there and everywhere. Instead I have not had much to write and although I have had a couple of posts going around my head I have not been able to assemble my thoughts into anything that makes sense. Apart from that I have become addicted to 'sex games' on face book. I love the oportunity to use tactics t make progress through the game………it also feeds my competative streak.
But today I am determined to put a few words together here. I am going on a short trip in a few hours and will be back late Sunday afternoon. I have been having a few days off work this week and as so often happens to me I was poorly the first couple of days and suffered with headaches on other days. This morning I decided to try shifting the niggly headache by changing my blood pressure during an orgasm or two.
On saturday morning I had gone to the local post office sorting office to collect a mystery parcel. I hadn't ordered anything nor was I expecting anything so it was quite a suprise to discover the contents of the box was a Penthouse Mode G-spot caress.
I had been approached by
to try out and review one of thier products. I had a choice between
I chose the latter because I have never tried a G-spot vibrator so this would be different for me. However by the time the parcel arrived I had forgotten that it was on its way.
As soon as I got home I opened up the package and inserted the 2 AAA batteries that I just happened to have. I love the soft pink colour, turning it around in my hand it felt nice, kind of solid but pliable at the same time. The on off switch is easy to operate, a simple single button in the centre of the end of the handle. I wanted to try it out right away but wasn't alone in the house. A few evenings ago I got the oportunity to try it out. I didn't have any lube to hand and was too tired to go rooting about for it so wasn't able to properly insert this vibe into my vagina. However the feel of it buzzing against my clit was pretty arousing and I did manage to have a small orgasm.
Today though I had my lube at the ready, my G-spot Caress slid easily between my lips aided by a generous helping of lube. It felt good but I don't know if it is just me, my vagina is very tight and shallow following radiotherapy some years ago. I was unable to locate my G-spot with the Caress, but then that might be down to me. I had begun to suspect that I don't have a G-spot at all until my Sweetheart found it for me a couple of years ago. He is the only man to do so. So I wasn't overly disappointed that I couldn't locate it today. The vibrations I did get from this G-Spot Caress were good and I was able to give myself a very strong orgasm by using it against my clit. However I did find that I had one slight problem using this vibrator other than my inability to locate my G-spot. The cap over the batteries came off several times during use merely by my putting a little pressure on the side of it. It didn't come right off so didn't interupt the vibations or my pleasure but I am sure this shouldn't occur.
Although I was a little disappointed that I wasn't able to caress my g-spot I did enjoy using this toy. I would recommend others to use this vibrator as I feel the failure was due to y own body rather than the vibe itself.
to see their catalogue check here