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Trump belittles a Cruz-Kasich alliance that is already showing cracks
The alliance between Sen. Ted Cruz and Gov. John Kasich is already seeing fractures, and front-runner Donald Trump is basking in it.
Just hours after the candidates announced a plan to deny Trump from delegates in upcoming nominating contests, Cruz and Kasich are showing that they aren't fully committed to the idea.
One of the critical states in the agreement is Indiana, a state that votes May 4 and is seen as being a critical contest to keep Trump from winning the necessary 1,237 delegates. Cruz and Kasich agreed that Kasich would not compete there and cede the state to Cruz.
But at a diner in Philadelphia Monday morning, Kasich said he wouldn't direct his voters to support Cruz in the Hoosier State - a critical decision that could have the most weight in the state.
RELATED: Why the Kasich-Cruz alliance could backfire
"I've never told them not to vote for me. They ought to vote for me, but I'm not over there campaigning and spending resources," Kasich said. The Ohio governor will still be on the ballot in Indiana.
It is becoming apparent that this is an agreement between the two campaigns to hold their fire against each other in just three states - and a directive for the outside groups backing them to do the same.
Kasich said the purpose of the agreement is not to help the other get elected but to better allocate resources to ensure an open convention.
"But look, this is a matter of resources and, you know, we're running a national campaign and we want to apply our resources where we think they can be used most effectively and it's all designed to stop Hillary Clinton from becoming president," he said.
An animated Donald Trump, who says the two rivals are colluding to keep him from the nomination, made fun of their agreement while also calling the system "rigged" and "fixed."
"Actually I was happy because it shows how weak they are. It shows how pathetic they are," Trump said at his rally in Rhode Island. "Honestly, it shows such total weakness, and it's pathetic, when two longtime insider politicians, establishment guys whether you like it or not, have to collude, have to get together, to try and beat a guy that really speaks what the people want."
While Cruz was more optimistic about the agreement with Kasich - because he is in second place and believes that he has a better shot of winning the hearts and votes of delegates in Cleveland - wouldn't throw his support behind Kasich in Oregon and New Mexico, two states where Cruz vowed to clear the way for Kasich. But like Kasich he also said the agreement was about resources.
"Well listen this is a nationwide campaign and we're making a decision where to focus our time, energy and resources. We are now focused very, very heavily on the state of Indiana," Cruz said. "It is significant that John Kasich is pulling out of Indiana and allowing us to go directly head to head with Donald Trump."
"How do you give a guy (the nomination) who's millions of votes behind Trump, who's 5-or-600 delegates behind Trump?" Trump added, speaking of Cruz.
After criticizing how Kasich eats pancakes, Trump knocked him for running a distant third. "You can't give it to Kasich because you can't give it to a guy who's one and 50," he said, referring to the number of states he's won.
The Democratic National Convention also injected itself into the interparty fight. Spokesman Mark Paustenbach wrote in a statement, "Wow, that didn't take long. Cruz and Kasich's desperate attempt to stay relevant - despite the fact they mathematically have no chance of winning the nomination without plunging their party into further chaos - has already fallen apart. The GOP is still in denial. Trump hasn't taken over the party— their leadership over the years has promoted the divisive policies that allowed Trump to flourish."
This article first appeared on NBCNews.com.


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This qualification reflects the role of workers participating in the design, implementation and evaluation of leisure and health activities and programs for clients in one or more sector areas.
Workers may be in residential facilities and/or in community agencies and day centres, completing specialised tasks and functions in relation to leisure and health.
Get your career started today
CHC43415 Certificate IV in Leisure and Health
Course duration
12 months
Delivery mode
Student cohort
Existing workers
Government funding & fees
Higher Level Skills Funding
Payment methods
Direct Debit, Credit Card, Catalyst Plus Interest-Free Student Loans
Course Units
CHCLAH001 Work effectively in the leisure and health industries
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
CHCCOM002 Use communication to build relationships
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
HLTWHS002 Follow safe work practices for direct client care
HLTAAP002 Confirm physical health status
CHCLAH002 Contribute to leisure and health programming
CHCLAH003 Participate in the planning, implementation and monitoring of individual leisure and health programs
CHCLAH004 Participate in planning leisure and health programs for clients with complex needs
CHCLAH005 Incorporate lifespan development and sociological concepts into leisure and health programming
CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues
CHCAGE005 Provide support to people living with dementia
CHCCCS020 Respond effectively to behaviours of concern
CHCDIS009 Facilitate ongoing skills development using a personcentred approach
CHCCCS023 Support independence and wellbeing
CHCDIS003 Support community participation and inclusion
CHCAGE001 Facilitate empowerment of older people
Entry requirements
- To commence this program, your Language Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills must meet required standards for ACSF LEVEL 3.
- You need to provide a current national Police Check or you must provide evidence that you have applied for a police check in your respective state as soon as possible.
- Students must be currently employed in a direct client care role
within the aged care industry
Training delivery
This course is delivered via distance delivery over approximately a 12 month period to existing workers in the aged care industry.
This is a paper-based method where you can study from any location throughout Queensland. The learning material will be mailed out to you and you will be able to contact your trainer through email, phone or skype. Dependant on your location, trainers will be available to visit you on site (in consultation with your facility).
Practical hours
A minimum of 120 working hours must be logged in a community care services organisation.
Career outcomes
Possible career pathways you may like to consider upon completion:
- Leisure and lifestyle coordinator
- Activities officer
- Leisure officer
- Community leisure officer
- Recreational activities officer
Related courses
CHC43115 Certificate IV in Ageing Support
CHC43415 Certificate IV in Disability
CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support
|Full Fee
|Student co-contribution fee (Non-Concession)*
|Student co-contribution fee (Concession)*
* This training is delivered with Queensland government Funding.
Payment Plan
A payment plan allows you to pay a regular weekly amount prior to completion of your course
Students will be entitled to pay the concession cost if:
- Students hold a Health or Pension Card
- Students are the partner or dependant of the person who holds the Health or Pension concession card
- Students are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
- Students with a disability
Subsidised training
Higher Level Skills Funding
The Queensland government will pay an amount towards the cost of this course for eligible students and the student will pay a subsidised cost – the cost above.
To be eligible for a subsidised training place students must meet the following criteria:
- An Australian citizen
- permanent resident
- temporary resident with necessary visa and work permits on the pathway to permanent residency
- New Zealand citizen permanently residing in Queensland
- Over 15 years of age
- Have left school
- Must not hold a qualification at certificate IV level or higher in any discipline

subset: commoncrawl


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Officers from the Grenfell Tower investigation team and the Coroner met the families of those who died or are missing and sadly presumed dead last night in a private meeting to update them.
The families were updated on the progress of the search and recovery operation, the identification process, the coronial process and the police investigation as well as being given the opportunity to ask questions. The survivors are also being updated.
A total of 60 people who died in the fire have now been formerly identified plus baby Logan who was stillborn afterwards. The number of people who are believed to have died remains at about 80. The final figure will not be known until the end of the search, recovery and identification processes, but officers believe the final figure may not be as high as 80.
Everyone identified to date is a person officers sadly anticipated to find within Grenfell Tower and their families are all being supported by trained family liaison officers. It is expected the search and recovery operation will be complete by about the end of the year. Following structural work inside the tower, from this week the Met has been able to double the number of search teams to help finish the search as soon as possible. So far a fingertip search has been completed in around half the flats, with those prioritised where it is believed people died. About 15.5 tonnes of material is being searched through on every floor.
The police investigation continues, uniquely at the same time as a public inquiry, with which the MPS is co-operating.
Detective Chief Superintendant Fiona McCormack said: "The investigation into what happened at Grenfell Tower is a priority for the Met and we are determined to find the answers that so many desperately seek. The distress and suffering caused to so many families and loved ones that night is harrowing. That night people lost their homes, all their possessions and tragically their families and loved ones.
"Outside of counter-terrorism investigations, this is the biggest investigation the MPS is undertaking and the scale is huge. Last night we were keen to help the families understand that this is massive investigation and it will take a long time. But we only get one chance to investigate and it is important things are done properly.
"We hope by the end of the year our search teams will have finished their work inside the tower and the formal identifications will be complete. We are committed to finding, recovering and identifying everyone who died as quickly as we can.
"We do now think the final figure of those who died may not be as high as 80 but we don't know exactly at this stage. We have analysed the thousands of calls received after the fire to confirm and eliminate missing people as well as looking at CCTV from the foyer who shows us clearly some 240 people who escaped the fire. Some of those missing person reports were mistaken and a small number were fraudulent. The process is ongoing but we now have a better idea of figures. However, we still don't know if there was someone inside Grenfell Tower who died who was not reported missing, and we won't know until the searches are complete."
Around 200 officers, drawn from across the Met, are working full-time on the Grenfell Tower investigation in a variety of roles including family liaison, search teams, statement-takers and exhibits officers.
The investigation is focussing on the construction, refurbishment and management of Grenfell Tower as well as the emergency services' response. The types of offences that may be discovered could range from fraud, misconduct, health and safety breaches, breaches of fire safety regulations or manslaughter on a corporate and/or an individual level.
So far the investigation has identified 2,400 different people to speak to, including residents, firefighters, police officers and other witnesses. More than 1,000 statements have been taken.
A total of 670 firefighters that were involved in the rescue effort have been identified, 340 police officers and a similar number of ambulance staff. They will all have statements taken. From those police officers, 340 Body Worn Video clips have been downloaded and they have all been viewed.
More than 2,500 exhibits have been seized so far, many from within the tower.
Officers previously said they had identified 60 companies that had been involved in the construction, refurbishment or management of Grenfell. That number has now grown to 336 different organisations. Each is being contacted to establish exactly what their role was.
Where their role is considered relevant, digital downloads of all business records are being recovered. So far, in excess of 31 million documents have been recovered and it is anticipated that number will increase. Specialist software will be used to enable officers to process and search those millions of documents in order to find any relevant material that may be used evidentially at a later stage.
The forensic examination of the tower is ongoing and will continue into the New Year. This includes photographing and documenting every room on every floor, paying particular attention to fire safety provisions such as fire doors, the standards of construction work, the routing of pipework and smoke extraction systems. After that, there will be a series of further forensic tests including reconstructions. Only after that work is compete will officers be in a position to fully understand what happened, what went wrong and what questions need to be answered.
In addition to this work, eight fraud investigations are ongoing, where people have tried to financially benefit from the fire. Two people have been charged, one person arrested and bailed and enquiries continue in the other investigations.
The MPS received a report on Friday, 8 September that a sum of money appeared to have been stolen from one of the flats within Grenfell Tower, taken at some point after Tuesday, 20 June.
An investigation into the theft is now being carried out. Survivors of Grenfell Tower and the families of those who died or are missing and presumed dead have been updated by the Met.
Officers have had reports within the last ten days of other possible thefts of property and money from another three flats. Enquiries continue and the police investigation will establish whether such property may have already been moved into storage by a specialist company employed by the local authority. The allegations were made after occupants of flats on the floors not damaged by fire were allowed to return to their properties to recover personal items and discovered the missing property.
Det Ch Supt McCormack said: "I can't tell you how personally devastating these reports of thefts are, for the victims, for me and everyone involved in the investigation who is working so hard. We have one confirmed theft and are looking at three more allegations and we will thoroughly investigate. We do not yet know how this has happened.
"We have 24-hr security at Grenfell Tower but this has been reviewed and some changes immediately put into place."


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10th Congress (Rekjavik)
Theme: European Lawmaking and Practice, Fundamental Rights and Financial Markets.
The tenth congress of the European Women Lawyers Association (EWLA) took place from July 2nd to 4th in Reykjavik (Iceland).
Thursday, 2 July, 2009 - 17:30 to Saturday, 4 July, 2009 - 14:15
National Centre for Cultural Heritage
115 Hverfisgata
101 ReykjavikIceland


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Today we'd like to introduce you to Jason Sawtelle.
Jason, let's start with your story. We'd love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have been a fine art painter for almost 30 years, but I spent my first 22 "professional" post-college years in the corporate world. While I thoroughly enjoyed working with clients in my customer service and sales roles, I found myself believing in what I was doing less and less. The pull of going back to my roots as an artist finally outweighed the risk of leaving the stability of my corporate job in August of 2014.
As a father, husband and homeowner, I knew I needed to build a sustainable business to keep the lights on – but I also knew I needed to do something I believed in. BlackBeak Studios was born when I decided to marry my love of working with clients with my passion for art.
I am an active fine artist, which maintains my avenue for personal creativity and self-expression. This is important because as the Owner and Artist at BlackBeak Studios, I am free to let my clients' vision drive the process and result. In my corporate experience, I learned the importance of listening and collaboration, which helps me to create murals and specialty paint finishes that thrill the designers and homeowners I work with.
Great, so let's dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you've had to overcome?
The biggest obstacle I faced was jumping into a brand-new field with no existing clients or connections to help get me started. This is where my business and sales experience were quickly valuable! My experience is that people do business with people they know and trust – so I made a point of doing a lot of networking to meet people in the field to build relationships so I could then build my portfolio and ultimately build a reputation.
Please tell us about BlackBeak Studios.
I am a muralist and decorative painter, creating custom-painted design experiences that transform everything from a piece of furniture to an entire room. My mural work ranges from bold, contemporary statement walls in homes, to kids' room murals, to topical murals for public spaces. My decorative painting work ranges from faux finishes on walls to custom paint finishes on furniture and cabinets to specialty paint repairs.
I specialize in customization! While I do projects using existing/known finishes or concepts – my specialty is creating an image or a finish from scratch. Without being confined by what has been previously done, I am free to create something that puts my client's needs, tastes and ideas first.
One thing that sets me apart is that I am an artist first and foremost. Often, my ability to see things that are not there helps my clients bridge the gap between a collections of ideas to a fully realized concept. My knowledge of color and design then helps make sure that a dynamic concept is also visually appealing and harmonious with the space. Even when I do paint repairs, my ability to match colors and patterns has won the praise of many of my industry partners
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
This is a hard one! The first memory that comes to mind is a long hike I took with my older brother and sister while on a camping trip with my mother. My love of nature (which shows up frequently in my work!) started early, and being in the woods on a camping trip was (and still is) about as good as it gets. What makes this trip stand out is the additional adventure of striking out into the woods with just my siblings. There was the excitement of getting a little lost, the camaraderie of figuring out how to get back and the thrill of discovering a desolate beach that we enjoyed as our own private paradise for the better part of the day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackbeakstudios.com and www.sawtelleart.com
- Email: email@example.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlackBeakStudios/ and www.facebook.com/sawtelleart/
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it's how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
1 Comment
Jason, Fabulous article. Says it all about what an amazing, creative, talented artist you are. We are very fortunate to have a beautiful mural of yours in our home. Bob and Mary Lou MacFadyen


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Production number 126
Production title: Interview of John Lombardi
Production date: 1989
Original format: VHS videotape
Color and sound
Total Running time: 92 minutes
Title available as MPEG-2 and Digital Betacam
File name: Lombardi89
Source: University of Florida Archives – Presidential Search
Committee Records, Series P17
This is a tape made when John V. Lombardi came to be interviewed for the position of President of the University of Florida. At the very start of the tape a man is completing his introduction of Dr. Lombardi and said that he would speak for about 10 minutes. John Lombardi, who was then Provost and Chief Operating Officer at Johns Hopkins University, proceeded to give a succinct and well organized talk for about that length of time. He spoke about the four things that one should look for in a university and described each. Following his talk there was a question and answer session. Some of the questions included: how UF could integrate academic and industrial research, how being a provost differed from being the president of a university, how could the university have both a research institution and a good undergraduate program, and what is the proper roll of intercollegiate athletics in a university community. Lombardi's answers were very well thought out and presented.


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By Gbass242 - February 6th, 2011, 10:29 pm - Posts: 235
- February 6th, 2011, 10:29 pm #301397
I've been getting questions about an Austin franchise. Anyone from that area already have one so I can point those who have asked me in the right direction?
Everett "Tuba" H.
Houston Area Ghostbusters
Houston Area Ghostbusters


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Brock Lesnar, who is scheduled to defend his WWE heavyweight champion title against Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania 31 this weekend, went on SportsCenter today for an interview with Michelle Beadle. Once there, he announced that he had re-signed with WWE, and will not be returning to UFC.
In the run-up to Wrestlemania, Lesnar's "manager" Paul Heyman revealed that his contract was expiring soon—this was a case of storyline reflecting reality—and that Lesnar was considering returning to the UFC. (Lesnar, a former NCAA wrestling champion, fought in the UFC from 2008 to 2011, and was MMA's biggest draw and one of the sport's best fighters before he lost his title to Cain Velasquez and diverticulitis left him a shell of himself, which led to his eventual retirement from MMA.)
If Lesnar's contract situation had remain unresolved, it would've led to an uncomfortable situation for WWE, with fans figuring that the champion was set on leaving and thus that the Wrestlemania main event's outcome was preordained. Lesnar's storyline still well may see him losing to Reigns at Wrestlemania, but some doubt has been introduced into the equation, and with a new contract in place, all seems well both for WWE and its champion.
Photo via Jae C. Hong/AP
E-mail or gchat the author: email@example.com | PGP key + fingerprint


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Only one includes this old chestnut…
Right, check your watch – it's either 1am, or 2am. You're not sure because it's not digital, a police car just zapped past making one hell of a racket, and you're concentrating on urinating against a wall without falling over. You may or may not have just shouted "FUCK OFF" at the top of your voice. It's so hard to remember. God you're good looking. The girls were all going wild for you tonight – so wild that they became tongue tied and had to move away from you whenever you decided to turn on the charm. If they'd stayed, they'd have only fallen in love, and love is a dangerous game. You know what you need? Food. Really nice fucking food. You're hungry, you're great looking, you've just done a piss. Come on, let's go and grab a menu.
The top four post-pub feasts should look something like this…
1. Large Chicken Shish
Even with the muddled haze of a few strong ones clouding your mind, making it impossible to punctuate between words, you know that you didn't join that gym for nothing. You're a health nut, you care about your body. Hence, it's time to wow everyone in the kebab shop by asking the nice friendly man behind the counter for the healthiest thing they have – a Chicken Shish. You've got the fresh chicken that's awash with healthy oxidants and minerals after sweating on a skewer in the counter for three days, vitamins from the pitta, and then, of course, your five-a-day – onion, tomato, lettuce, chili sauce, mayonnaise. Chips. All washed down with something alcoholic you found in the fridge. Delicious. Now go and have a wank.
2. Sweet and Sour Pork Balls
Should you be lucky enough to have a nice Chinese takeaway nearby, stumble in and loudly demand some pork balls in batter with a side dish of molten red dipping sauce. Normally you might go for something sophisticated like noodles or some chargrilled duck vaginas. But none of your haute cuisine here sister – it's nighttime, your head's pounding like you wouldn't believe, at this stage of the evening you'd be much classier throwing bite sized canapes into your mouth, and they just don't come any better than this. Connoisseurs of late night pork balls will tell you that the ideal accompaniment is a cold can of Coke, but you might be happier forcing them down with some wine in a pint glass. Your choice.
3. Large Meat Feast Pizza
There are levels of drunk, which can dictate what you might have to eat. Should you be desperately drunk, careering down the pavement, nose almost touching the floor, go for options 1 or 2. But if you have time, and a debonaire hint of sobriety on your side, you might want to head home and casually get on the blower to order a pizza. Now remember, you're really hungry, so you should probably go for the biggest size they have – it's also a show of financial strength that people who work in pizzerias ADORE – but get it on a thin crust, because you don't want to spend the rest of the night legging it to the toilet to slowly regurgitate bits of dough into the sink. Plus, you should probably stock up on protein, so go for the loads of meat option. Timed correctly, eating one of these can be the greatest experience of your life.
4. Meat and Chips
That's right, doner meat and chips. By far the most humiliating meal you will ever order. But one of the best. So ignore the disparaging looks from kebab shop locals who wouldn't even stoop so low, and just get on with it. In many ways, this is like a tramp's shepherd's pie, with the potato and the meat. Plus, you get the added bonus of being able to eat it by the fistful, whilst simultaneously enjoying the comfort of a double seat on an otherwise crowded bus. It's an unwritten rule that you are only allowed to consume one of these a year. Make it count.


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Restaurants near Missouri Wall of Fame
6 restaurants available nearby
Very friendly and attentive waiter. Delicious food! The sushi was extremely good! Will eat here again.
Our table was ready when we arrived. Our server was pleasant and efficient. The chicken crepes and the veal were delicious. And the experience was just what we needed after a fractious week.
Red Lobster welcomes you by offering PRIORITY SEATING to reduce your wait time in the restaurant, so you can spend more time doing the things you love. Or, come enjoy a drink at our bar and a Tasting Plate while you wait. Red Lobster is the world's largest and most loved seafood restaurant company,...
There was a dance and graduation at the time we were there. Staff handled it really well and the food was still amazing!
Food is outstanding so is Tara the best at service and making one feel welcome and special .
It was a wonderful Birthday dinner
The food is great! Some meals aren't put together to well. But the rest is really good.


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A day late this week! With good reason though. Yesterday was DH and I's 13th wedding anniversary! So, he took the day off from work, and my blog was not on my mind lol. We had a great day, and an amazing dinner at my favorite restaurant. We ate wayyyy too much, but it was worth every bite.
So. Much. Progress. This week. I am so VERY glad to say…. The background, is DONE!! Yayyyyyy!! So, right now I am working on the overlay stitches which I was dreading, for good reason, it is in the skirt, there is certain stitches that get the iridescent filament stitched over it. And of course, one it's hard to see (I'm actually finding working in indirect light is better because it's easier to see the white stitches I'm working over since there are so many light colors), but the other big problem is that I have to work with very short lengths of this filament because it frays, separates, snaps, tangles, etc if I cut it too long. So, that is very frustrating to me, but I'd say I'm about a third of the way through it so I should be done in a day or so.
Two pictures for you today. One is a close up, that kind of shows where the overlay stitching has been done. I was trying to get a shot that would show it sparkle, but it's hard to do. The other is a full show to show, no more blank background staring at me!!
Happy crafting!


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Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.
Sookie fell asleep against him almost as soon as the wheels left the tarmac. The crew was efficient and the flight attendant showed proper discretion in her treatment. She made a point of interacting with Sookie, making his mate feel comfortable, and then she made herself scarce so Eric could entice his wife closer.
'I love you,' she'd whispered, stroking his chest with her fine fingers. Now that she'd said it, she seemed to like saying the words often. It wasn't that Eric didn't want her to. Truth be told, he liked hearing her say them, and that was what was making him uncomfortable.
Sookie's human wedding had stirred a Pandora's box of memories. Eric hadn't thought of his turning in many ages and now, he couldn't stop. He remembered his lost bride's face, even if he didn't remember her name. He remembered the smell of her family's cattle, drifting across the field the moment he saw the bundle of rags that was Appius. Eric had been proud, a blooded warrior. Appius spent their first few years together breaking that pride.
Eric understood now that forcing him to become nothing allowed him to be rebuilt into the man he was today. Eric may have doubted his Maker's method, but he both loved and feared Appius. Appius Livius Ocella was a great man, a colossus among vampires. Appius refused to take a crown, although it was his right. Appius scoffed that royal concerns were petty concerns; beneath him, and Eric acknowledged some part of his reluctance to enter politics was because of his Maker.
When Eric handed Maude's envoy the keys to the car, the woman's eyebrows rose. Eric had made a cursory effort to clean off well wishes and toilet paper, but traces remained. The envoy said nothing, yet Eric could see her scorn. 'What would Appius say?' The thought sprang into his head, and haunted all his interactions with Sookie.
"Wake me when we get there?" Sookie raised the armrest and laid her head in his lap. Her eyes shone. She was sleepy and her quiet state made her emotions more pronounced. She did love him. He could feel her adoration. It made him warm. He wanted to return the words, but knew he couldn't. He was vampire. He honored her too well to tell her things he couldn't, shouldn't, feel.
"Of course, min hustru," he said instead. "Sleep now." He sighed once she slipped away. It was easier when she wasn't conscious.
They were met at Logan by the New England King's emissary. "I am James," the tall Were informed them. "King Robert extends his welcome to you, Sheriff."
"Is your King in town?" Eric asked.
"Not tonight," and Eric saw James' eyes drop to where Sookie's fingers were entwined with his own. "You may not have heard, but our Clan Summit starts in two nights. There are preparations underway and the King returns tomorrow. Robert has instructed me to extend an invitation to you to attend as his special guest," and his eyes traveled to Sookie's face, "along with your Bonded."
"We will be honored," Eric replied, then bowed. He could feel Sookie's irritation. He supposed it was because he didn't ask her consent first. He was vampire. She was his mate. It was time she learned her place. "This is Sookie Northman," then using his teaching voice, he instructed Sookie, "It is our custom to bow when introduced, Sookie. A slight incline of the head is appropriate for someone of James' standing."
Sookie was nothing if not polite and she followed Eric's prompt, but the vampire could feel her temper flickering and when they followed James through the terminal, she made no move to take his hand again.
James rode in the back of the black car with them. After offering Sookie a soft drink, he turned his attention to Eric, chatting about the upcoming Summit and identifying which of the Moshup Clan royalty would be in attendance.
Sookie stared out the window, freeing Eric from making an effort to include her in the conversation. As they pulled up to the hotel, James remarked, "I heard your time in Maude's kingdom was spent indulging in local customs, Sheriff."
It was lightly done, though pointed enough. "Observing the customs of one's Bonded is honorable," Eric replied.
"Of course," James smirked, staring out the window. "One must expect variety when bonding with someone so… Alive."
The car pulled to the curb, and, as it stopped, James stepped out. He leaned back in the car, offering Sookie his hand, ignoring protocols which forbid touching a vampire's human without her vampire's express permission. The rule didn't exactly apply to vampire mates, but Sookie wasn't vampire.
Eric's jaw clenched. Sookie was smiling, unconscious of rules being broken and disrespect being shown. Eric stepped between James and Sookie, forcing the Were to step back as he secured her arm through his own. "I will be speaking with your Master. I will be certain to let him know the courtesy extended in his name."
James flinched. It wasn't much, but it was enough. As Eric pulled Sookie after him, he snarked, "Oh, and you'll take care of the luggage, won't you, James? Good dog."
Sookie's unhappiness stilled as they stepped into the small lobby. Her eyes widened and she sighed, "This place is beautiful." They were staying at a vampire-friendly hotel located in the Beacon Hill section of the city. From the outside, it looked like every other door on the street, but, inside, it was classic opulence. With a Summit in town, every place with light-tight accommodations would be booked, but there was always a room for one's most-favored guest and, in this place, Eric was a most-favored guest.
Jeffrey, the hotel concierge, was waiting for them. "Welcome back, Mr. Northman." He was short and impeccably dressed. He wore no tie. Suits had fallen from favor in the world of concierges. Instead, Jeffrey wore casual slacks and a bespoke white shirt. "And this must be your Bonded!" He bowed a little more deeply to Sookie. "Welcome to Grave House, Mrs. Northman. You are more beautiful than rumor reports. Always a pleasure when fact outstrips gossip."
"My Bonded is fatigued," Eric answered for Sookie again. He knew his actions were angering her, but he ignored it. She was his human mate; his answering for her was expected. There would be time upstairs to explain. Behaving as they did in Minnesota surrounded by humans was one thing, but they were in his world now, and it was becoming clear from the reactions of those around them that there was a problem. A vampire's reputation was built over centuries, but could be destroyed in moments. Years of training were telling Eric he was in danger. His mind clicked, thinking through the nuances and protocols.
"We are not prepared to attend Robert's Summit," Eric informed Jeffrey as the concierge showed them their rooms. "I have a tailor here who stores my suits, but my Bonded will need proper clothing."
"Of course," the concierge bowed. "The opening ball is in two nights, so there is no rush. I will make arrangements." He directed the porters with their luggage and oversaw the unpacking before turning to Sookie, "Perhaps you would join me for lunch tomorrow, Mrs. Northman? I can have showings from several shops arranged for your pleasure at that time," and he handed Sookie his card. "You need only call me when you are ready. We'll eat and then enjoy the show. I must apologize, but I wasn't able to determine if you have any food allergies. I would like to make certain your meal suits you…"
"Sookie doesn't have allergies…" Eric interjected.
"Sookie can speak for herself," Sookie snapped. "Thank you, Jeffrey. I don't have any food allergies. Perhaps a salad, some chicken?"
"My Bonded likes desserts," Eric offered. He meant it to be kind, but Sookie's eyes narrowed.
"No need, Jeffrey," she contradicted. "I've had plenty of sugar over the past few days, and I could use a break." She shot Eric a look that told the vampire Sookie was really talking about him.
"Thank you, Jeffrey," and Jeffrey knew it was his cue to leave.
As the concierge reached the door, he offered, "It is still quite early for the city and the weather is lovely. If you aren't too tired, I could recommend a bistro around the corner." He looked at Eric, "They are familiar with the guests here and are most accommodating. I can arrange a table."
Eric could feel Sookie's hunger, but he purposely waited for her answer. "That would be nice," she said after a bit, and then "Thank you."
The door shut behind the concierge and Eric counted two before Sookie turned on him, "Why are you being such an asshole?"
"We may be in danger." Eric didn't sugarcoat it, "You remember what Pam told you, about being a target."
Sookie's mouth fell open, "But you said…"
"I may have been too optimistic," Eric conceded. "America is different. Vampires here can be brash. As you know, vampires choose to live by many rules, and those in America follow them closely. A vampire who steps outside the lines is respected…or challenged. One rule is that vampires, particularly those in positions of power, don't marry…"
"Humans," Sookie let out a breath. "So, what did you see that has you worried?"
Eric explained the envoy in Minnesota, "By itself, her reaction was nothing, but as soon as we landed, there was James," and Eric explained the double meaning behind James' words. "I don't believe in coincidence. Two slights in different geographic areas in the same evening are concerning."
"Okay," and she calmed, demonstrating the level-headedness Eric admired. "Then what's the game plan?"
Sookie's eyes were less cold, although Eric could feel her happiness slipping. "We follow vampire protocol. We work to make you more vampire than those around you. I will have to check in with Robert tomorrow night, and I will mention your connection to Niall."
"I guess, if you think that's the only way." Sookie looked away before she asked, "Are we really in trouble, Eric, or are you just ashamed of me?"
"You are my mate!" Eric protested. "I will defend you to the death." Sookie's words struck close to something, but he continued, "I hadn't realized there was a Summit here; these American Clans and their formalities! We could make excuses, not go, but if we don't attend, it will fuel rumors. If we attend, and Robert treats us with respect, it will send a message…"
"…And allow you to keep your pride," Sookie finished. She was smiling, but her eyes were sad.
"It isn't that!" he protested again. "I am sworn to protect you. If those in our world doubt my ability to do that, you will be in danger. Trust me!"
"I do," she said, but Eric could feel her uncertainty and it grated.
Her stomach growled, and Eric leaned over to kiss her. He told himself it was for her benefit, but he knew it was for his own, "When would you like to go to dinner?"
Jeffrey was called, and Sookie took a quick shower, changing into a dress. It was warm, and they found themselves seated at a sidewalk table, watching young people intent on entertainment streaming past. The ambient noise made it hard to hear those seated near them, and Eric positioned his chair next to Sookie so they could use this time to talk about what was needed.
"It would be best if you enjoyed the showing tomorrow. Jeffrey knows what to do," Eric started. "The dresses you will see will be expensive. Narrow it down to two or three. I would like to be included in your final choice. Do not ask about price! There will be no tags and if you appear concerned about money, it will be passed along. Remember, anyone who visits the hotel knows what we are, and that means they have connections to others in the supernatural world."
"And you worry about what they'll say," and Sookie rolled her eyes. "I don't understand it and I don't want to! I have never lived my life to meet someone else's expectations. My Daddy said…"
"And your Daddy is dead, probably killed. That is the reality of our world now, Sookie. I am sorry I agreed to this Boston diversion. It would have been better if we'd simply returned to Ireland or continued someplace else, but we are here and trouble has found us." Eric sat back, waiting for their server to take orders and place a basket of rolls on the table.
"So you say," Sookie muttered. She didn't look at him, instead paying attention to the roll between her fingers. She broke it apart, and then broke off another piece. Eric thought she would eat, but instead she shifted the pieces around the small plate, using it as an excuse.
Exasperated, Eric took Sookie's fingers, tugging gently until she exhaled. "I am old, Sookie, and I survived this long by paying attention to the signs around me. You may think I'm being paranoid…"
"I think something happened in Minnesota," Sookie confronted him. "I think being reminded of your human life made you question things. You pulled back from me, from us, and I can feel it."
"Nothing has changed between us," Eric replied. "This is a new situation."
"I'm going to see Amelia tomorrow," Sookie replied, changing the subject.
"I don't think…" and Eric sat back as Sookie leaned in toward him.
"You are not the boss of me! I came here to see Amelia. I'll do the lunch thing and I'll pick out a dress, but I'm going to meet my friend for dinner, Eric. You can join us or not. It's up to you, but I'm going." Eric found himself at a loss for words. Sookie wasn't angry, she wasn't sad. Instead, she was determined, and it both frustrated and impressed him.
"I will arrange someone to drive you," he nodded.
"A babysitter?" Sookie was staring right at him and Eric could see she wasn't going to let him off the hook.
"A guard, yes," he nodded. "It will be someone discrete. Your friend, Amelia, will be impressed. She likes the trappings of money."
"He'd better do what I tell him," Sookie stated and Eric knew he'd won this round.
"I will use that time to check in with Robert," Eric nodded.
"Well, if he offers you a blood buffet, don't feel like you have to hold back on my account." She was trying to remain calm, even cold toward him, but, for a moment, he felt the hurt under Sookie's words and his heart, which shouldn't have existed, ached.
"I gave you a promise, Älskade. I do not wish to take it back. I…" and he took her hand, "I may fail you from time to time, but, Sookie, that doesn't mean that I don't wish to try to be worthy of you." He kissed the back of her hand, and he heard her breath catch. "Please, my Lover. Please understand that I only wish you to be safe, that I wish you…" and he pulled back, hooding his eyes and emotions as the server approached with their meals. For Sookie, there was a large salad, and for him, a dark goblet.
"You seem to wish that I'm something I'm not," Sookie told him.
"No, I am not asking you to change. I'm asking you to act in a way that will safeguard us. Don't tell me you've never acted, Sookie! Don't tell me you haven't done things you didn't wish to make others more comfortable around you. Acting doesn't change who you are but, in this case, it may allow us to continue doing as we wish." Eric looked out at the passers-by who crowded Boston's sidewalks. "I enjoy this. I enjoy sitting in the open, watching the living swirl around me. It was not always this way."
Eric sat back, "There was a time when my kind hid in the shadows. We ruled the night and feared the day, because angry humans hunted, seeking to destroy us in our day death. We were hated, Sookie! Reviled!" He took her hand, "Feared. It taught us that our natural instincts could cause our destruction. We learned to act; hide what we most wanted, and our reward is this," and Eric gestured at those around them. "I can sit here in the middle of humanity and with some precautions, not worry about being staked in my sleep." He looked at his mate, "Do you understand?"
"I'm not a vampire, Eric," Sookie pointed out.
"No, you are bonded to a vampire. That makes you my responsibility," and when Sookie drew in breath, Eric added, "in my world. Sookie," and he leaned forward, "that means we are one. Perhaps it would be easier if you considered you are responsible for me as well. Your actions can endanger me. Your unwillingness to respect the rules can invite rivals to challenge me. Is that what you want?"
"No," Sookie sighed. "Fine. You tell me what I need to do and I'll try."
"It's all I'm asking," Eric assured her, but he knew that wasn't exactly true. "First, you should know there are many rules! I blame it on our memories. We are immortal and incapable of forgetting, so remembering and perfectly executing is a matter of pride."
"That's ridiculous," Sookie grated.
"Most social conventions are," Eric agreed. "Ties? What purpose do they serve, but someone decided it was a rule and so we wear them." Sookie smiled, and Eric took that as a sign, "Let's start with bowing. It is more than a bow; it tells everyone what you think without having to use words." Eric started with the obvious degrees, those who were given head bows versus those whose rank required more.
When he started on angles, Sookie protested, "I'm not a vampire, Eric! I'll never remember all of this! I can figure out ninety degrees, but forty? Really?"
"You are new to our world. It's known and you may be viewed as a new Child, so you'll be forgiven much." He covered her hand with his own before saying, "Let's move on to touching protocols."
"How many rules are there?" Sookie groaned.
"Many," Eric grinned, "and I will confess something to you. Because I am the oldest in most gatherings, when someone irks me, I make up another rule."
It caught Sookie. She exhaled and her eyes warmed. "You really are a pain the ass, aren't you, Eric?"
"How can they dispute what I say?" He laughed. "I tell them some pedigree or circumstance and they glaze over, filing it away to beat their friends with later." She laughed, and he used her sudden good humor as an excuse to pull her to him and kiss her. He hungered for her. It had been many hours since he'd had her on the plane and he wanted her again.
Sookie pulled back from him. She knew. He hadn't held back his feelings, but instead of suggesting they leave, she said, "So, about those touching protocols." She lifted her fork to her lips and smiled as she flicked out her tongue before taking in her food. His cock twitched and she smiled wider.
"You should be vampire," he hissed.
"I don't want to be vampire," she shrugged. "Not now. I like who I am, even if I have to act. Touching protocols, Eric!"
"Fine," and he admired her through narrowed eyes. "No one is allowed to touch you without my permission. Vampires are sensitive to their environments, so even touch leaves trace scent. As mine, you should only smell of me."
"And what about you?" Sookie asked.
"If you were vampire, you could demand the same," Eric told her.
Tilting her head, Sookie challenged, "Well, I'm your Bonded. Doesn't that count?"
"If you make a claim, you have to be willing to fight for it," Eric explained. "It's understood that my claim to you can be challenged, which means a fight, Sookie. Vampires don't fight without purpose. A fight means final death."
"Great!" and Sookie was unhappy, "So, every time you vampires get together, someone dies?"
Eric wondered that she made that assumption, then remembered Queen Sophie-Ann's was the only vampire gathering Sookie had seen. The incident with the young blood donor had left an impression and Sookie had mentioned it more than once. "We are not so uncivilized," he assured her. "When open combat happens now, it is usually an excuse to air out other grievances." Eric's thoughts shifted to the Summit. If things were unsettled and he was viewed as vulnerable, challenging for the rights to Sookie would be a good excuse to try and end him, so Eric added 'sword' to the list of items he wished to discuss with Robert.
"So, let me get this straight," and Eric's thoughts returned to his woman, "you can demand people not touch me, but I can't stop people from fondling you. So, where does that leave me? Don't I have any rights?"
"You are unique," Eric frowned. "I don't think any vampire can remember a bonding where one of the partners wasn't vampire. There are songs, of course…"
"Songs," and Sookie stared at him. "I sure hope they're good ones! Look, if it's been that long, why don't you just make up some rules? Like you said, not like anyone's seen something like us before. Just tell them the rules come from some legendary couple."
Eric couldn't help smiling, "You are clever, my wife. With your Fae feel and the unusual nature of our bonding, it would be easy enough to plant a few hints. They may not believe it, but the possibility would give them pause, and that, combined with Robert's good grace, would be all we'd need." Eric looked out into the crowd, "They would wonder. We must make certain the dress is spectacular. You should reveal your true face…"
"Let's not get carried away!" Sookie protested. "I'm pretty good at hiding my scent, but I'm not sure I'm ready to pull a reveal standing in a shark tank."
"Shark tank?" Eric asked.
Sookie blushed, realizing what she said. "It's something Claudine told me. She calls vampires the Fae version of sharks."
Eric threw his head back and laughed. People around them stared and then smiled. He knew he was handsome and this aspect never failed to gain him compliments. "It's a good description, much kinder than what I call the Seelie."
Sookie was smiling for him now and that made him feel better. "What do you call them?" she asked.
Eric leaned forward, waiting for her to lean forward as well. "Assholes," he said and was rewarded by her bright laughter.
The mood between them lightened, and Eric gestured for the dessert tray. "I shouldn't," Sookie sighed, staring at the offerings.
"I prefer not to hurt myself," Eric teased. When Sookie looked puzzled, he answered, "Skinny is sharp," making her blush, but also incenting her to choose the slice of lemon cake.
"So," she said, licking her fork in a way that made Eric's cock twitch again, 'What are the rules about humans and vampires?"
"Most involve blood slaves." Her tongue had distracted him and he cursed himself, watching her still.
"Do vampires have those?" Her voice was small and she set her fork down.
"These days, it's humans who are willing," Eric lied. "We call them pets, not very kind, but less open to misinterpretation. They are like the humans in Sophie-Ann's court. They align themselves with vampires in hopes of becoming one themselves. Often, there is affection between the vampire and their human. I suppose it is the equivalent of dating."
"You're being clever with me," Sookie observed, and then asked, "Have you ever kept a blood slave, Eric?"
"I have had a companion," he offered instead, and then cocked his head, "But we could play at blood slave, if you wish. It is a passionate relationship, one where the Master gets to dictate apparel and services." He allowed just the tips of his fangs to show below his lip and he pushed his lust at her.
"And I suppose you get to be the Master?" and Sookie placed her hand on his knee.
"I think it's your turn," and Eric ran her hand further up his leg until she was cupping him.
"Well, then," and Sookie stood, "I think we can start by you settling the bill."
As they walked back to the hotel, Sookie sighed, "Will my life ever be simple again?"
"Do you wish that?" Eric asked. "I find that simple lives have moments of interest, but long stretches of boredom. Times like these may feel draining, but the alternate can feel like death." He pulled Sookie's arm through his, "You are a restless, curious soul. You may think that sitting in a chair, watching the world walk past would suit you, but I know it wouldn't. You would chafe in that life. It would be like Ballytyne all over again, pacing the house like a bound lion, staring through windows, waiting to fly free."
"I guess you know me pretty well," Sookie sniffed. "It's just I could do with a little less trouble."
"And soon we will be back in Ireland. We will settle into a routine. I will work and you will begin your university and your work as well. Those around us will begin to recognize our routines, and we will find enough sameness to satisfy you, Lover. For now, life is bright and hard. Enjoy the feeling, for it is in danger that we are truly alive." Sookie seemed to accept what he said and his mind flipped through the hours ahead. He would make love with his mate, finding his release many times before day death took him. Tomorrow, there was Robert and arrangements, and then, the Summit.
'The attorney,' he remembered. Somewhere, close by, Mr. Cataliades was living in a human house, biding his time. Sookie described him as her neighbor, but Eric knew Desmond Cataliades as a demon, an Unseelie, and he knew the attorney worked for Niall Brigant.
It had been over a year since Sookie's mother's death and yet, Sookie told him the estate hadn't been settled. When the vampire was first approached by the Seelie King, Eric offered to place a sum of money into Sookie's hands through Mr. Cataliades, freeing her, but Niall forbid it. Now, Eric had done Niall's bidding, pledging to his granddaughter, providing her protection, and, still, the estate remained open. It made Eric wonder what the Seelie King had in mind.
"I can never tell if you're sincere in your courtesies, or If your bow is another way of telling us to go fuck ourselves," Robert dead-panned.
"For you?" and Eric's eyebrow cocked, "Always sincere!"
"Yes," Robert laughed "I thought so." The King gestured to the seat across from him, "I didn't expect to see you back in my kingdom so soon. I missed you on your last visit. What was it, again? Errands?"
"A job for a business partner," Eric replied, setting his elbows on the armrests.
"And now, you return, bonded." Robert's smile dropped, "I was sorry to hear about it. Sophie-Ann was wrong to force this on you. I can't imagine the inconvenience, but I'm told she's fragile, your human. I'm surprised you haven't worked yourself up to it already. I'm told the pain will be profound, but quick." Robert sipped, his eyes far away, "Your Maker taught you harder lessons. You know how to endure pain."
Eric watched the King. He and Robert weren't exactly friends, but they had known each other for ages. "Sookie is not quite human," he offered.
"But you gave her a human marriage," Robert pointed out.
Eric felt the weight of Robert's stare. "I did," he confirmed, cursing himself for not taking more time to clean the car in Minnesota. He might have lied when he returned it, claiming it was borrowed, but his own name was written many times in cake icing and soap. "As I told Sophie-Ann, my mate is personal business and I am content with this. I pledged to her of my own free will."
"I see." Robert sat back. "I'm sure there's more to the story. Surely, there is some business advantage."
Eric forced his jaw to relax. The King knew something, but wasn't revealing how much. Eric supposed Robert hoped to catch Eric in a lie. "She is the descendent of Niall Brigant," Eric offered.
"I did hear that. And she…her name is Sookie, isn't it? At any rate, she was here, in my kingdom, all that time. I remember when Niall parked his woman in this country. I suppose she would have been Sookie's grandmother." Robert templed his fingers, "The old trickster waltzed in and out of Maude's kingdom, thinking himself too smart to be noticed. Seelie!"
"They do think much of themselves," Eric agreed, waiting, every instinct on alert. When Robert didn't speak, Eric added, "When Sookie's presence was revealed, Niall made his interest known."
The King appeared bored until you noticed his sharp eyes. "Still, that's not who brought you to Boston in the first place, Eric. You are Rogan's business partner and Rogan sent his own son to fetch her. I heard your Bonded arrived in Ireland as Breandan's concubine."
"Not concubine," Eric corrected. "Breandan planned to marry her, according to her rites. Rogan was most distressed."
"So, it wasn't a betrayal, but an intervention?" Robert rolled his goblet between his fingers, "I hear Breandan is now lost, become Unseelie. Rogan has retreated into self-exile, mourning, I suppose. It's said his kingdom drifts, leaderless, awaiting some strong sword to take it."
"I'm not sure that's an accurate description," Eric smiled. "But, if your source is in Ireland, I'm not surprised. The Irish do tend toward the dramatic."
"Quite," and Robert sipped. "After all, the great Eric Northman wouldn't betray a partner over a woman…or would you?"
"Niall suggested our pledging." It was the right thing to say, but Eric couldn't help feeling he was betraying his mate.
"Oh," and Robert smiled. "So, this was about a favor. It's good to hear that Niall has finally asserted himself. Rogan deserves it. Revenge, then! That is honorable."
"You have always known me to be honorable," Eric forced his own smile in return.
"And you will have your Sookie with you at my Summit. I'm told she has a twinge of something otherworldly, but it's easy to miss. It would be best to display her in a manner everyone understands. She is your mate, but presenting her as what she is, an asset, would cause fewer questions." Robert waited for Eric's response. It was on the tip of the Viking's tongue to protest, but he swallowed it, nodding instead.
"Good! The right dress and a sufficient number of chains should do the trick," and Robert seemed satisfied.
"I didn't bring jewelry with me," Eric shrugged. "We are headed back to Ireland soon and with the Summit tomorrow, I'm afraid…"
"Say no more!" Robert waved his hand. "I will be happy to loan you the appropriate jewels. My last companion passed. Of course, I retired her many years ago, but I was fond of her. I wouldn't loan her jewelry if she were still among the living. A kindness, you understand?"
"Of course," and Eric saw the trap closing in. "And a favor."
"Which I'll collect at some time," and Robert rose. "For the moment, let's call it a kindness between two old friends."
Eric left with a black, wooden box. The chains were lovely; platinum and studded with jewels. They reminded him of the chains Niall had gifted Sookie as part of her bride price. Those had been Seelie, but these were crafted to declare the wearer a vampire's possession. As Eric sat in the back of the taxi, inching through traffic toward the hotel, he called Pam.
"I can't believe I'm missing the Summit!" she exclaimed. "Does Robert still wear that stick up his ass?"
Eric chuckled, "He hasn't changed." He told Pam of his conversation with the vampire king of New England.
"He's still well-informed. Too well-informed. It has to be someone in Sophie-Ann's court," Pam growled.
"Or one of the Sheriffs," Eric sighed. "Xavier and I both worked with Robert before he decided to emigrate. There's others, even Andre has a connection."
"It doesn't matter. You go, you charm, and you jump on the first plane home. It's not as interesting around here. Business is good and everyone seems to want to pretend nothing's going on." Eric could hear her shift and a murmur, and then Pam added, "We loved the pictures. She really did make a lovely bride."
"Not as elegant as her pledging, but she didn't have you to dress her this time," Eric praised.
"Please tell me you got her a decent dress for the Summit. Not that those American vampires matter all that much, but it's still important." In the background, Eric heard a voice he recognized as Maryann's add, "ask about the shoes."
Eric bit back his irritation, explaining, "The concierge here is quite good. There were several dresses in our room when I rose. I'm assuming I'll have a viewing once Sookie returns."
"Returns?" Pam asked. "Are you in trouble?"
"No," and Eric frowned, "Why do you ask?"
"You rose and your mate wasn't there. You went to talk with Robert and didn't take her. Are you and Sookie fighting?"
"Wouldn't surprise me," Eric heard Maryann chirp.
"Why would we be fighting?" Eric tried to sound aggrieved, but he couldn't even convince himself.
"More like how are you able to get along?" Pam hooted. "She's stubborn and so are you! You are talking with her, right? Explaining things?"
"I know how to conduct my own affairs," Eric protested.
"But, Sookie isn't an affair. She's your wife, and that's new for you. Please tell me you are treating her with respect, not just ordering her around," Pam scolded.
"She wouldn't listen if I did," Eric huffed, much to Pam's delight. "She is as stubborn as you say."
"And proud," Pam added. "Treat her as your equal and you won't have any problems."
Eric stared at the box beside him, "Robert suggested she wear chains," he said. "In fact, he insisted."
"What?" Pam squawked and then, "Tell me you charmed him out of that idea."
"It would have required revealing more. He pressed me about Rogan, wondering why I was putting her ahead of business… Vampires…"
"To which you said, 'None of your business,'" Pam pushed.
"Don't be foolish," Eric hissed. "Sookie is already attracting too much attention. I told him of her relationship to Brigant, which wasn't any secret to Robert, by the way. He's convinced she's part of a bargain I struck with Niall, so I left it that way."
"You better hope no one explains those chains to her," Pam growled.
"I will be at her side all night. No one would dare insult her with me there. We make our appearances, we dance the first few numbers, and then make our apologies. We stay only long enough to visit Cataliades…"
"I didn't know he was there!" and then Pam whispered to Maryann, telling her she'd explain later.
"He's been here all along. He's working for Niall. Sookie thinks he's her Mother's attorney, settling the estate." Eric pulled his phone back to check for any messages from the demon, "I texted him, but the bastard isn't responding. Probably waiting for instructions from his boss."
"I'll grant you, it's odd," Pam agreed, "but a demon lawyer isn't going to be your biggest problem. You need to tell Sookie what's going on. Not planning for the worst isn't like you, Eric, and having her hear herself being described as your possession and you not being in a position to contradict that isn't going to go well."
"You worry too much," Eric shrugged, "but I will speak with her." The taxi pulled up outside the hotel, "I will let you know about the Summit."
"Send me a picture of the dress," Pam asked. "Better yet, a picture of the two of you all dolled up. I'll put it in my family album."
"You have a family album?" Eric wasn't sure exactly what Pam meant.
"You better tell her, Eric," Pam scolded, "Or the page will be labeled, 'Before,' and your fangs, yanked out, will be labeled 'After.'"
"You are wise," Eric chuckled, "I will tell her." Eric could feel Sookie was here already and he barely nodded to the woman at the front desk as he headed up to their rooms. His mate was sitting down, staring out the windows, but she rose when he walked in.
"Hungry?" she asked.
"You are kind to notice," and Eric walked forward, wrapping her in his arms. Drawing her to him, kissing her, holding her, seemed so perfect. She fit within his grasp as if she was made for him, and even though he could feel she was upset, he could also feel her calm within his arms.
"Guess you're happy to see me," she spoke against his chest.
"I am content, now" Eric answered honestly. He set the box down and then drew Sookie to sit on the end of the bed. "How was your visit with Amelia?"
"Oh…you know," she sighed, leaning her head over in response to his nuzzling.
"I'm not sure I do," he whispered, licking along the column of her neck, enjoying her scent and the thrum of her blood racing through her veins. "You should be happy, excited, and instead, you are muted. Was your friend not happy to see you?"
"She takes credit for calling our wedding," Sookie answered, and then stretched into him, drawing in a sharp breath, warming. Eric added hands, stroking her breast and Sookie covered his hand, encouraging him to squeeze.
"Too many clothes," Eric rasped and together, they moved with purpose. When Eric's fingers stumbled over her buttons, Sookie pushed his hands away to simply pull her shirt over her head. She wasn't entirely ready when Eric pushed into her, but he wished to feel his possession. Once within her, though, he stilled. He looked down at her, shifting her leg to pull it more fully over his hip, allowing him that last inch.
"I want it to always be like this between us," Sookie told him.
"How's that?" Eric asked, drawing his thumb down the curve of her cheek.
"Hungry. Happy. I love you, Eric," and she smiled a little before saying, "Now, move!"
"As my lady commands," he answered. He drew it out, teasing, bringing her to the brink and then stilling, substituting kisses for stimulation, allowing her breath to slow, and then stoking her fires again.
When he did it a second time, she growled, "Cut it out! You're driving me crazy."
"What do you want from me, Sookie?" and when her eyes locked with his, he growled, "Say it! Tell me what you want!"
"Fuck me!" she gasped. "I need you to be the Master this time."
His fangs clicked down and his cock twitched. Vampires were possessive by nature. Hearing the words fed his inner beast, "As you wish."
"Are you quoting "Princess Bride" to me?" Sookie gasped as he started moving more briskly.
"Perhaps," Eric smirked, "but what I would like to hear from you is something else." He grabbed her hands, then pulled from her. "On your knees, Princess. Ass in the air." He pushed her knees apart a little more before lining up with her again. He stroked back and forth a few times, gathering their moisture on his fingers. "I know you like to have all your holes engaged," he purred, petting her rosebud. "I didn't think to bring something for your mouth, but we will be home soon enough. Besides, I want to hear the noises you make," and he worked his thumb into her.
Her sharp exhale and her quickened heartbeat were his reward. "I love to feel myself moving within you, Sookie. Now, I'm going to use a second finger. Play with yourself, Lover. You know how to do it." He could feel her walls tightening around him already. It wouldn't take her long to cum. Sookie was no novice to anal, but Eric hadn't attempted yet. He found preparing was half the fun and their first time would be with her in control and a better brand of lubricant close by.
The second finger was a tight fit and he knew it was a little uncomfortable. "Rub harder," he encouraged, "Concentrate on your fingers and let yourself go." He pumped, both cock and fingers and she gasped and then moaned. "Yes, that's it!" he encouraged. "Feel me, Älskade! I am filling you, fucking you," and she cramped around him.
Her voice was strangled, "No!" he growled. "Tell me what I want to hear!"
"Eric!" she gasped, "Yes!"
"Yes!" and he pumped harder, riding her through her orgasm, twisting his fingers to give her just a touch of pain to counteract the pleasure. Her climb was precipitous and he felt her crash, her breath coming in threaded gasps.
He removed his fingers, but left his cock within her. "Come, Sookie!" and he shifted, drawing her up against his chest. She was so warm, so docile, and he ran his nose to where her neck met her shoulder, concentrating her sweet scent, and struck. Her blood tickled his tongue and he only took a few mouthfuls before the need to mate overcame his hunger.
Eric flipped her onto her back, "Hold on!" and drew her hands over her head. When she started to falter, he drew her legs over his shoulders, stroking deep and strong. He drew his head past that spot within her, over and over, finding the right rhythm until she fisted and then clenched, pulling him with her. Sookie's head was thrown back, her mouth open in a silent scream, and Eric purred with satisfaction. This was right. This was as it should be.
He pumped a few more times, encouraging her, riding through the aftershocks, and then, when she relaxed, rolled and pulled her with him, a tangle of arms and legs. "Damn, you're good," she sighed.
"You are the best I've ever had," he praised her.
"Bullshit, but thanks for saying it," Sookie chuckled.
Her eyes were heavy and Eric basked in the afterglow, but then she sighed. Eric ignored it. It was what he usually did, and then she sighed again. Whenever his bedmates sighed like that, it always meant they wished to talk about the state of their relationship. They wanted to make demands of him, and then Eric stilled. That wouldn't be the case with Sookie. There was no need for that tiresome conversation. He was hers, bonded. He could feel her preoccupation, so he asked, "Is your unhappiness tied to your visit today?"
"Fucking bond," Sookie sighed and Eric couldn't help his grin, hearing his own thoughts echoed. "I suppose. She's changed, Eric. Money changed her."
"In what way, my Lover?" Eric found he didn't really care, except that talking seemed to settle the bond.
"When I knew her, Amelia was a waitress, kind of like me. She didn't take herself so seriously. You should have seen her, today, all dolled up in her high-end clothes, moaning and groaning like being pregnant was some terminal disease!" Sookie's mood was unhappy, but she started stroking Eric's chest and that felt fine.
"And the money!" Sookie continued, "Amelia isn't working, not at all. Sean is pulling down some big salary, and both their families are showering them with gifts. Her parents gave them a house on the Cape…the Cape! Because they're pregnant!"
That caused Eric to frown. Sookie had never been comfortable accepting the things money could give her and this rant seemed to be reinforcing that behavior. "Perhaps it's not the generosity of her family and husband that upsets you," Eric suggested. "Perhaps it is your friend's lack of gratitude?"
"Unlimited wealth just spoils people," Sookie continued. "She barely asked about me, other than congratulating herself on pointing you out as the better mate, and wasn't she smart to suggest it? Oh, and she told me she saw Claude and Breandan kissing in Ireland. She couldn't explain why she didn't tell me. She knew!" Sookie rolled over and propped herself up on her elbow. "What kind of friend knows a thing like that and doesn't tell you? When I think of all the heartache it could have saved me…"
"Heartache?" Eric didn't like where this was headed at all. "Why are you talking about Brigant and heartache? Do you want him back?"
"No!" and Sookie exhaled, rolling her eyes. "No, Eric, and if I did, if I was unhappy being with you, you'd feel it, right?" and she pulled his chest hair, making sure she had his attention, "Right?"
Eric had to nod before Sookie settled back to her story, "It's just friends don't keep that kind of information to themselves."
"It's possible Amelia was glamoured," Eric shrugged.
"Glamoured?" and Sookie squinted, mulling over this new idea. "But, if she was, why would she remember it now?"
"Because the Seelie can't glamour permanently," Eric grinned. "Only vampires know the art."
"Okay," and Sookie sighed, "Maybe I can cut Amelia some slack for that," but Sookie laid her head against his chest and he could feel her unhappiness. "All she talked about was the country club and housekeepers and how inconvenient it was not fitting into her clothes. She's barely showing! If it was me…"
This was a new conversation; one Eric wasn't sure he wished to pursue. Things between them were complicated enough. Vampires sometimes took companions with children. Sometimes the children became their donors, too, but Sookie didn't already have children, and the idea of anyone else touching her made his fangs itch. Fortunately, she moved on, "You know, she quizzed me about where I'm living in Ireland? I guess she was deciding whether I rated being her friend, now that she's so important. You were right about the bodyguard, though. When she realized he'd waited for me and wasn't just some Uber driver, she got all gushy, promising to stay in touch. It was the saddest hour I've spent in a long time."
"I'm sorry your friend has changed," Eric said, not sad at all. One less wild card in their existence was fine with him. "You have new friends, now, Pam and Maryann. I spoke with Pam earlier. She asked for a picture of you in the dress."
"How's she doing?" and Sookie settled, making it easier to relax. After a bit, she turned her head, "What's that?" Eric realized she'd noticed the black wood box.
"A loan from Robert," he told her. He thought about the meaning of the chains and he thought about how angry Amelia's materialism made Sookie. "Jewelry, for tomorrow. I warned you about this. Vampires expect a certain show. It was a kindness from the King, so I hope…"
"That was nice of him," Sookie agreed. In the back of Eric's head, a voice was yelling, 'tell her,' but then Sookie stroked his cock and sucked his nipple and the voice was lost in the noise of other concerns.


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Rainy but succesful dealer day!
On wednesday July 9 SBG and Raven organized a dealer day for all European dealers of both Raven and SBG. This day was meant to let Raven dealers meet SBG products and introduce SBG-dealers to the product range of Raven. We look back on a rainy, but very successful day.


text: The Silver Sky Imports would be one stop solution for people who were looking to find unique and wide collection of singing bowls available in market. Silver Sky Imports is a unique online marketplace that offers unique handicrafts from Tibet and Nepal. Launched in 2003, Silver Sky Imports is currently the largest supplier of handmade items from the Himalayas. The network specializes in the largest variety of Tibetan Singing Bowls and Crystal Singing Bowls online and includes individual sound samples, pictures and descriptions for each bowl. Some of other products include Tibetan Prayer Flags, Tingshas, Bell and Dorje, Incense, Felted Wool Handbags, Wood Masks, Prayer Wheels, Gongs, Bronze Statues, and Tibetan Meditation Rugs. If you were looking to get more information and suggestion on getting singing bowls from reliable online network, then please feel check out the http://www.silverskyimports.com/ link or the silverskyimports.com online network.


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Eden Home Care provides non-medical services that can greatly impact your health and well-being. If you or a loved one is struggling with prolonged illness, recovery from surgery, physical or developmental disabilities, or simply the challenges of aging—Eden Home Care can help! We offer a coordinated suite of social, advisory, wellness, and even cleaning services to give you the extra assistance or companionship needed so you may stay as independent as possible in the comfort of your own home.
Care Services
Activities of Daily Living
Activities of daily living are routine activities that people do every day. In-home, personal care services can help you remain safe, independent, and engaged in life by providing assistance with these activities. Professional caregivers such as home health aides (HHAs) or certified nursing assistants (CNAs) can provide ongoing assistance with what are commonly called activities of daily living (ADLs), such as:
- Toileting & Incontinence Care
- Transferring and Positioning
- Dressing, Grooming, Bathing & Hygiene
- Mobility & Transfer Assistance
- Assistance with Feeding
For those who live alone, have declining mobility, or who are somewhat isolated from other family members and friends, companion care services can be a wonderful way to enhance your quality of life while improving safety and wellbeing. Social interactions have been shown to have a critical impact on life expectancy and overall health and wellbeing. And there are additional benefits to be gained when using a home care agency to find the right person as a companion. Companion caregivers also provide peace of mind to concerned family members who are unable to provide continuous assistance for their loved ones.
Personal Care
We help you gain confidence in your daily life by providing assistance for a range of tasks. Many people find that they can continue living independently even longer with the assistance of home care services, which may include:
- Medication Reminders
- Laundry
- Light Housekeeping
- Meal Preparationg
- Transportation
Memory Care
At Eden Home Care, we understand the special challenges of older adults who suffer from Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia or memory loss and the stress this places on family caregivers. It is important that a patient's routines are maintained in a comfortable, safe, and familiar environment. It is also important to have experienced caregivers who have been trained to compassionately manage behaviors such as agitation, wandering, mental confusion, and other conditions associated with dementia. We are committed to offering long term caregiver relationships, for consistency and emotional bonding, to provide comfort and companionship. Our caregivers often feel as though they have become members of the family.
A caregiver, who is a certified dementia specialist with advanced dementia training, is hand-selected to provide care and receives individualized instruction from the care manager on specific needs on an ongoing basis. A care plan is created that includes tasks and activities to create a meaningful and enjoyable day.
Regular follow-up visits are performed by the care manager to re-assess the current level of dementia, making changes to activities according to the results. Each family will receive access to education and personalized training from our care managers.
Respite Care
Home care services can also be used as a source of respite for family or caregivers. Many family caregivers take pride in the care they provide to their loved ones, but the physical, mental, and emotional demands of caring for a family member can be overwhelming at times. Caregiving is a difficult job and very few people are equipped to do it alone. Getting help is essential for your health, which is critical for your loved one.
Whether it's for a few hours or a long vacation, Eden Home Care can provide the support and relief needed. Respite care can relieve stress, restore energy, and promote the necessary life balance.
There are a number of options for respite support. We will often arrange for a free in-home evaluation to discuss the type and length of respite care needed, and a plan of service will be developed.
Get Started
Find Your Local Office
Carson City, Nevada
(775) 392-2000
Bellingham, Washington
(360) 734-5410
Complete the form below to request a free, no-obligation consultation on your care needs. A member of our staff will contact you by phone or email within one business day.
(*required fields)


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City moved four points clear at the top of the Premier League but the City boss feels the victory could have been more comfortable with better decisions at crucial moments.
"We didn't create a lot of clear chances – we created a lot of 'almost' chances but our final pass wasn't good enough today.
"We arrived many, many times with De Bruyne, Silva and Gundogan but it was amazing that we were in that situation so often but didn't make the final pass, but then we got the penalty and then a third goal so we were able to win.
"We tried to win the game straight from the start and I thought Claudio (Bravo) was amazing in the way he mixed his passes; the short balls to the central defenders or the long balls to the strikers helped us create quick counter-attacks."
Pep Guardiola admitted he had no preconceptions about how the current campaign might pan out and that he still believes just a top four finish will be a real battle with so many teams starting the season impressively.
"I didn't think about what might happen at the start of the season," he said. "We just focused on pre-season and then we took a lot of confidence from our Champions League qualifying games and then it's been game-by-game.
"Now we are thinking of Celtic and then it will be Tottenham and that's how we'll go forward and at the end of the season, we'll see how our levels were and whether we were better than our rivals or not.
"I honestly just think qualifying for the Champions League will be very tough – United played really well today, Liverpool are especially playing very well, as are Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal. Everton may have lost today but they are all so, so strong."
And Sergio Aguero's record of 11 goals in six games was also recognised by the boss – though he believes Kun can still do even better. He said: "I am so happy for Sergio. He knows I want more and he can play better and that's what he wants and what we want, but he scored a fantastic first goal today.
"His first touch in the box was superb and the quality and way he scored the penalty was excellent, too."
However, one sour note was the late injury to Kevin De Bruyne who looks set for a spell on the side-lines. He said: "I think he is injured, unfortunately – that's why we need a big squad because these things happen and it is a long season."


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Nicki holds a Level 3 City & Guilds Dog Grooming qualification.
She was inspired to get into the dog grooming industry when her Cockapoo, Rocco, was a puppy and he came out of the groomers looking a lot less cute than when he went in. Nicki was not satisfied that this would be how her beloved Rocco would look after each grooming session so she set about researching how to learn to do it herself - an idea that snowballed into a change of career.
Nicki knew that if she wanted to set herself above other groomers she would need to be taught by the very best in the industry, so she went to train at the multi-award winning Dogs Delight in London which is one of the highest qualified dog grooming salon's in the country. Whilst there, she learned how to groom many different breeds to a high standard ranging from pets to show dogs, passing all her qualifications with flying colours.
Training to become a Dog Groomer is not a simple task it requires a lot of time, effort and money and doesn't end once you've passed your exams. Learning and enhancing your skill is on-going, that is why Nicki continues to attend workshops, seminars and grooming competitions outside her working hours.
Opening Hours
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday - Friday 9.30am - 5.30pm or when the last dog is finished
Saturday 9.30am - 2.30pm
Sunday CLOSED


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Precious rose hip seed oil.
This fabulous oil should be a staple in everyone's skincare kit because it has so many benefits.
But be warned, careful shoppers: this is not always the purest oil on the market, because extraction is so labour-intensive.
The Extraction Process
The oil is hand-picked from the hips of the wild rose.
The extraction process is complex and involves drying, de-hipping, and the removal of irritants, followed by pressing.
The rose grows in thick, spiny bushes; these bushes are there to protect the delicate flowers and tiny seeds, which are attached to the hair-like fronds (this is the basis of 'itching powder').
Extraction is known as winterisation, where heavy waxes are removed by refrigeration.
This is an intricate process, which allows for the rose hip seed oil to be more workable and user-friendly.
A good article to read is "CO₂ Extraction Process", which is critical to the quality of your oil.
Properties and Uses
It is used in many different face care preparations, for the purpose of cellular regeneration.
Anti-scarring agent: Research shows the presence of large amounts of linoleic and linolenic fatty acids in rose hip seed oil.
This is why it is one of the most effective oils in treating both hypertrophic and keloid scars, as the oil is known to significantly help reduce the look of aged and hardened scars.
Anti-wrinkle oil: Rose hip seed oil helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, slowing down the skin ageing process.
Anti-inflammatory agent: The fact that rose hip seed oil is chock-full of linoleic acid and linolenic acid means that it's perfect for sensitised, inflamed skin.
Anti Ageing: It is also believed to contain the precursor to vitamin A, known as trans-retinoid acid or tretinoin, which is why it is so good for preventing premature ageing.
Burns: Because of the oil's natural Vitamin A content, it's great for treating skin infections.
It is also used in the treatment of damaged skin tissue caused by scalds, burns, stretch marks, and varicose veins, due to its ability to encourage skin regeneration.
Cellular rejuvenation: Many clinical trials have proved that rose hip seed oil is an exceptional product in the field of tissue regeneration, helping to improve skin texture and discolouration.
Nourishing: The oil is rich in Fatty Acids, which help to keep our skins cells healthy. As we age, our skin naturally starts to dry and lose water. Fatty acids work to keep the skin plump and moist, preventing it from drying out.
As you can see, good quality Rose Hip Seed Oil is abundantly rich in skin-loving nutrients.
It's a wonderful source of omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, and beta-carotene-pro Vitamin A, which gives the oil its lovely orange hue.
Follow the link to find out why linoleic acid is vital for the health of our skin.
These lipid compounds naturally moisturise our skin, improving texture and elasticity whilst assisting skin cell renewal and repair.
With all of these wonderful benefits, it makes sense to harness the potent power of the CO₂ extracted oil in BIO Lipid Complex, the perfect formula for helping to restore impaired skin.
A+ Retinoid Complex and Nectar Treatment Balm have been created to help with healing on a deeper level; delivering delicate, traumatised skin from irritation and inflammation.
The Science
The first study on rose hip seed oil was carried out in 1983 at the University of Santiago, Chile. All of the participants had different skin conditions, including sun-damaged skin, premature ageing, burns, acne scarring, eczema, dermatitis, and others.
Interestingly, it was found that rose hip seed had significantly noticeable effects in skin regeneration, restoring skin back to its youthful glow.
- The oil is considered a dry oil, with little slippage.
- Rose hip seed oil can be applied neat on the skin, or within a formulation. Using it neat suits many of my customers, and I have seen good results with inclusions as low as 10%.
- Because the oil has high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, it naturally has a very short shelf life (less than 6 months).
- I always add 0.5% vitamin E to my oil, which you can also do if you buy it neat.
- I only use a CO₂ extract of the oil, which is known to have higher level of linoleic and linolenic acid
Fatty Acid Profile
Palmitic acid 3.6%
Stearic acid 2.15%
Oleic acid 15%
Linoleic acid 47.7%
Linolenic acid 28.5%
Arachidic acid 0.9%
Eicosenoic acid 0.45%
Eicosadienoic acid o. 15%
Behenic acid 0.2%Docosenoic acid 0.15%
E-vitamin – Natural d-alpha Tocopherol; 0.0001%
My Wound-Healing, Anti-Scar Recipe
3-5% Sea Buckthorn
2-3% Carrot seed
1% Calendula CO₂
1% Rosemary
1% Comfrey
3% Helichrysum, known for its regenerative ketones
Add the above ingredients to your rose hip seed oil base.
For those thinking of purchasing the oil: when it comes to the purity and the active nature of the oil, you need to be careful.
Why? Because the cold-pressed version doesn't have a long shelf life, and it can quickly go rancid.
I only use a CO₂ extract that is certified organic, which is obtained by super-critical extraction that uses carbon dioxide as the solvent.
The oil is then further stabilised with rosemary antioxidant, that is also a CO₂ extract.
On a final note, there are often reports that rose hip seed oil contains Vitamin C, a key repairing ingredient responsible for the production of collagen.
However, much of the vitamin C in rose hips is destroyed during the drying and refining process, and also it declines rapidly during storage.


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Cartoonito UK New Show Curious George Starts Monday 6th August
On Monday 6th August at 11am, Cartoon Network UK's pre-school sister channel Cartoonito will be welcoming a new member to its family – Curious George. George – the show's titular character is a monkey, although he's good-natured and very friendly, he often gets into all sorts of misadventures due to his inquisitiveness and limitless curiosity.
George lives in the big city with his friend, known as "The Man in the Yellow Hat" who does his best to take care of him. The animated series is based on the popular American children's book series of the same name written by Hans Augusto Rey and Margret Rey. Brand new episodes of Curious George will air on Cartoonito UK every weekday at 11am.


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If you have 2 pounds of hamburger, how many burgers can you make if you use 1/4 pound of meat for each burger? (8)
If you want to feed 4 people, how many burgers could each person have? (2) If you make each burger 1/3 pound how many burgers could you make? (6)
Have your students look online to find the cost of 8 hamburger buns and one head of lettuce. Ask the students to find out if it would be less expensive to serve the burgers on buns or lettuce wraps.
If your students have learned to calculate cost per unit, ask them to find out how much one pound of turkey would cost if 5 pounds costs $20.50. ($4.10)
Let your students take a survey of which burgers, sandwiches or toppings their classmates prefer and then make a bar graph showing how many students prefer veggie burgers, hamburgers, turkey burgers, hotdogs, cheeseburgers, hamburger wraps, veggie wraps, etc. Which type of food do most of the students prefer? Which is the class' least favorite?
Caleb bought 3 pounds of pears,
2 pounds of oranges, 4 pounds
of apples and 5 pounds of carrots.
How many pounds of fruit did he buy? (9)
Here's a problem from the Excel Math Grade 3 Guided Practice:
Andy has 5 eggs, 8 apples
and 2 pears. How many
more apples than eggs does he have? (3)
How many cookies did
Brian and Anna bake? (75)
How many more cookies will
Paige have to bake to equal
what Jose has baked? (25)
Help your students explain their problem-solving strategies as they work through these problems.
Give each student 8 gummy bears or goldfish crackers. (Make sure no students have allergies to these food items.) Ask the student how many they would have if you gave them 3 red gummy bears plus two yellow bears. (13)
Then ask the students to each eat two of their bears or crackers and tell you how many they have left. (6)
Finally, let your students make up some of their own word problems about food and then solve them. Excel Math lessons include lots of practice with word problems of increasing complexity as well as our unique Create A Problem exercises that merge math with literacy.
New to Excel Math? Take a look at the lessons for Kindergarten through Sixth Grade plus lots of math resources at excelmath.com.
You might also like these articles:
Higher Order Math Word Problems
Higher Order Math Word Problems


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Zak Storm Boys Zak Costume
- Shirt w/ Attached Vest Panels
- Pants
- Sash w/ Plastic Slide
- Headband w/ Medallion & Faux Gem
- Wrist Band
- 2-Piece Sword
- Shirt has hook & loop fastener at back of neck
- Vest panels & collar have red ribbon edging
- Pants have elastic at waist & at cuffs
- Sash attaches to shirt w/ hook & loop fastener strips at right shoulder & left hip
- Headband has elastic band at back
- Sliding medallion w/ faux gem can be positioned as desired
- 2 pieces of sword slide and snap together; release by pushing a button
- Officially licensed
Aye, Aye Dude
Surfing is a pretty cool sport. Has been since the sixties. Really, how can you get any cooler than riding the waves while balancing on a simple board? Well, you could gain the powers of the elements and become a super surfing pirate, taking cool to another level. Zak Storm used to be a simple surfer until he stole his father's necklace before a competition. Then he was sucked into the Bermuda Triangle and obtained the talking sword that would be his mentor and connection to the powers of the elements. And that's how he became the coolest guy who ever surfed the high seas! If your child is a fan of the Zak Storm series he doesn't have to learn to surf or fight pirates to become the nautical legend. All he has to do is throw on this costume!
Product Details
Your child will be ready for anything with the Calabrass sword in hand! It won't give him life advice or give him power over the weather but it will connect him with a confident attitude! Your kiddo will be ready for the high seas with cropped pants that are great for climbing the main mast to the crow's nest, a vest and bandolier combination with skull detail, and the eye patch that Zak uses for a telescope. Who know's what the seas might have in store? Zak and his sword can handle it all!
Ridin' the Waves
While this costume will be a fun twist on the classic pirate costume for Halloween, you might find that your child uses his Zak Storm costume for play time adventures. The Calabrass sword will take on pirates with the power of ice and fire. He'll overcome sea monsters and whether any storm until he finds a way home in time for dinner. Now, that's a high seas adventure you can get behind!
|Size 4/6
|Size 4/6
|Shirt Length
|Size 4/6
|Pants Waist
|20" - 28"
|51cm - 71cm
|Size 4/6
|Pants Length
|Size 8/10
|Size 8/10
|Shirt Length
|Size 8/10
|Pants Waist
|21" - 30"
|53cm - 76cm
|Size 8/10
|Pants Length
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