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Published July 11, 2015 "Perhaps oddly, ADHD is much more common in some parts of America than in others. The rate of diagnosis in North Carolina, for example, is two-and-a-half times higher than it is in California. One possible explanation, put forward by Stephen Hinshaw and Richard Scheffler in their book, "The ADHD Explosion", is […]
In The News
Oakland Tribune: Letter to the Editor
"Professors Richard Scheffler and Stephen Hinshaw of UC Berkeley reveal that educational policies are most directly correlated with the dramatic rise in ADHD diagnoses. When states began passing educational accountability policies in schools in the 1990s, such as No Child Left Behind, schools were incentivized to boost test scores and achievements. It comes as no surprise that through the late 1990s those same states saw huge rises in ADHD diagnoses."
Health, Economics, Policy and Law: Book Review
"Most mental health problems are formally identified according to an assessment of clinical symptoms, rather than by taking blood tests, scans, etc. As such, particular care in arriving at a diagnosis is required if these or similar symptoms can to some extent occur in the general population. Such symptoms may of course be influenced by societal factors, which would be less likely with physical health problems and it is probably safe to say that we have now reached a consensus that genes, personal circumstances and the environment each play a part in the manifestation of most psychiatric disorders. Stephen Hinshaw and Richard Scheffler in The ADHD Explosion focus on the contentious issues surrounding this particular condition, particularly those to do with recognition and treatment."
ADHD Medication Prescriptions Are Off The Charts – Why? And Should We Be Worried?
The sales of ADHD prescription medication are increasing rapidly and are expected to grow by another 13 percent this year alone. According to IBIS World, a new report shows ADHD medication has skyrocketed since 2010, and will continue to grow at an annualized rate of 6 percent per year, bringing in $17.5 billion by the […]
KCBS Interview in SF with Rebecca Corral
Listen to Distinguished Professor Richard M. Scheffler and Rebecca Corral discuss the ADHD Explosion throughout the globe and the book that he and his colleague, Stephen Hinshaw, wrote to explain why this has happened.
Sales of ADHD Meds are Skyrocketing. Here's Why.
Obamacare and new diagnostic criteria for adults could mean a major windfall for the makers of ADHD drugs.
Journal of Attention Disorder reviews ADHD Explosion
Lawrence Diller states that the ADHD Explosion "is simply the best book in the last 15 years to describe the social phenomenon we call ADHD".
An Authoritative Look at ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is among our most controversial disorders. Is it really a disorder or a function of schools' inadequate response to active kids' needs? Is the increase in prescribing stimulant drugs for ADHD mainly because it's helpful or because drug companies are pushing it?
Stephen Hinshaw is an authoritative voice on ADHD. He's Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, Vice-Chair of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco and co-author with Richard Scheffler of The ADHD Explosion: Myths, Medication, Money, and Today's Push for Performance.
Dr. Diller Mentions Two New Books
The ADHD Explosion: Myths, Medication, Money and Today's Push for Performance by Stephen Hinshaw and Richard Scheffler (Oxford, New York, 2014) is the most recent best survey of the ADHD/medication "scene" to be published recently. The authors truly see ADHD as a neurological isse but defined with different contexts as problems. They bring full circle back to the academic mainstream thinking of ADHD as a biopsychosocial disorder (something I stated quite clearly sixteen years ago in Running on Ritalin). It would have been nice to received a little bit of credit but that takes nothing away from the importance of this book as an up to date exploration of the ADHD phenomenon in America today.
Strategies for Living interview on "The ADHD Explosion"
Are we at war with ADHD? David McMillian talks with co-author Richard Scheffler about his book "The ADHD Explosion – Myths, Medication, Money and Today's Push for Performance." Together they explore how the recents changes in the health care sector and the push for excellence in standardized tests resulted in a rise of ADHD diagnosis in […]


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So our little box of Em chocolates plus one buttercream (HA!) arrived two days post her due date, but oh well, they are here and they are spectacular! Arriving yesterday, 10/28, from Midnight until 4:30 a.m., we were blessed with 5 puppies, 1 little chocolate boy, 1 caramel girl and 3 chocolate girls, a very nice mix! All are doing well early on here, settling in, all saddled up to the milk bar. Em is a fantastic mama and sure does love her babies. Here is a group photo for now with single photos to come in a few days. Em is such a hoot. She likes to have stuffies in with her and the puppies, hence the pumpkin guy. Have a fun Halloween everyone and thanks for looking!! All these puppies have forever homes waiting for them!
Happy Howl-0-ween everyone !!

subset: commoncrawl


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EpiLab Team
EpiLab team leader: Prof. Dr hab, Joanna Hoffmann, University of Arts in Poznan
Prof. UAP dr hab, Joanna Hoffmann is an artist, researcher, curator, Chair of ASN and leader of the EpiLab Team. Joanna is the leader of the Studio for Interdisciplinary Projects & Research, Faculty of Art Education & Curatorial Studies, University of Arts in Poznan.
Joanna works in the field of multimedia art, immersive installations and experimental video-animation. Her works were presented internationally e.g. at the Centre for Contemporary Arts in Warsaw, Dana Centre/Science Museum in London, European Patent Office in Berlin, Transmediale Festival for Digital Culture in Berlin, WRO Media Art Biennale in Wroclaw, MUSE New York. Joanna has contributed to many conferences and symposia including ISEA International Symposium on Electronic Arts in Singapore/Sydney/Istanbul; Mutamorphosis in Prague, special guest of the European Congress of Biotechnology in Cracow 2016.
EpiLab Team Art
Dr Milosz Marganski, University of Arts in Poznań
Dr Milosz Marganski has been head of the Animation Department at the Animation Faculty of University of Arts Poznan and works in the field of interactive film, computer games, VR, modern technologies. Milosz is a graduate of the Multimedia Communication Department at the Academy of Fine Arts in Poznań (currently the University of Arts in Poznań). Milosz has been an assistant at the 3rd Animation Studio since 2010. Milosz filmography includes: Virtual? Reality (2009), Babel (2010), Ars moriendi (2014). Milosz has participated in a number of festivals such as The Young and Cinema 2006, Boruta Fest 2009 (distinction for "Virtual? Reality"), Animator 2013, Melbourne International Animation Festival 2013, Polish Shorts Corner in Cannes 2013, Krakow Film Festival 2013.
Piotr Slomczewski(MA), University of Arts in Poznań
Piotr Słomczewski is an assistant at the Studio for Transdisciplinary Projects and Research, UAP. As an artist, he works with various media: sculpture, drawing, painting, sound art, video, multimedia environment, bio-art, performances. In his artistic investigations, he often uses laboratory equipment, as well as programmed electronic circuits and interactive applications that he makes. Piotr Slomczewski graduated with honours from the University of Arts in Poznań, from the Faculty of Art Education, achieving the degree of Master of Arts. Piotr organizes and runs artistic workshops for children (and parents). As a person with synaesthesia himself, he develops a new, friendly and universal formula tests for different types of synaesthesia detection for children, to enhance their learning and creative abilities.
Andre Bartetzki
Andre Bartetzki is a German composer, sound designer and sound engineer, living in Berlin. Author of the renowned software CMask for algorithmic composition. Collaborated with many ensembles and composers of new music around the world. Presented his own compositions at many international festivals including BIMESP São Paulo, SICMF Seoul, SuperCollider Symposium Birmingham/Berlin/London. Andre Bartetzki studied sound engineering at the Musikhochschule "Hanns Eisler" in Berlin. He founded and headed the Studio for Electroacoustic Music there until 2002. From 1999 to 2004 Andre also taught at the media faculty of the Bauhaus University in Weimar and at the Musikhochschule. In 2009, Andre became the director of the Electronic Studio at the Technische Universität Berlin with Volker Straebel.
EpiLab Team Humanities
Juliette Harvey
Juliette originally trained as an anthropologist at the National University of Ireland Maynooth followed by MA Visual and Material Culture Anthropology at University College London. In 2017 she was commissioned by Visual Contemporary Art Galleries, to create a materials library to accompany an exhibition. Juliette used ethnographic research towards creating a visual and sensorial introduction to four decades of an artist's work. She has researched multidisciplinary artists residencies and recently conducted research of Ireland as part of a Horizon 2020, Arts and Humanities Enterprise Hubs project.
EpiLab Team Science
Prof. Dr hab. Janusz Bujnicki, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw
Prof. Dr hab. Janusz Bujnicki is a Polish biologist specializing in molecular biology and bioinformatics. As a Professor of biological sciences, Janusz is head of the Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Protein Engineering at the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw. Janusz Bujnicki specializes in molecular biology and bioinformatics as well as genomics and microbiology. The teams he conducts deal with the study of the relationship between the sequence, structure and function of RNA and proteins, and the study of interactions between these molecules. The research is of theoretical and experimental nature. As part of the research, bioinformatics software is being developed for the prediction and modelling of the three-dimensional structure of proteins and RNA. He is the author of over 250 original works in scientific journals, over 20 review articles and chapters in books.
Prof Dr hab Eliza Wyszko, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Integrative Biology
Prof Dr hab Eliza Wyszko is head of Laboratory of Subcellular Structures Analyses. The laboratory possesses the equipment to the analysis of intracellular structures and monitoring cellular processes like apoptosis, necrosis, proliferation, and influence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the regulation of physiological conditions. The laboratories equipment allows searching for new therapeutics (low molecular compounds) through cytotoxicity analysis, changes in gene expression (LightCycler 480 Real-Time PCR),transfer of genetic information and signaling, initiation or cell death programming (flow cytometry), intravital confocal analysis of fluorescently labeled cells in monolayer or 3D using Leica TCS SP5 microscope. The Laboratory is concerned with the analysis of cellular parameters such as proliferation, cytotoxicity and cell cycle through impedance measurement using xCELLigence system or using flow cytometer.
Agnieszka Fedoruk-Wyszomirska PhD, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Integrative Biology
Agnieszka works at the Laboratory of Subcellular Structures Analyses. The laboratory possesses the equipment to the analysis of intracellular structures and monitoring cellular processes like apoptosis, necrosis, proliferation, and influence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the regulation of physiological conditions.
EpiLab Team Engineering / Computer Sciences
Dr Thomas Koch
Thomas Koch is Project Manager for Audio related topics at the Capture & Display Systems Group in the Vision & Imaging Technologies Department at Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute. His R&D activities are related to the following keywords: 3D Audio, Spatial Audio, Binaural Audio, Virtual Reality, Immersive Media, Wave Field Synthesis, Object-Based Audio, Traffic Noise Simulation and Reproduction. Thomas has utilised his specialized use of immersive audio technologies while designing and realizing a multitude of media installations for institutions as well as renowned media Artists. His work is mainly focused on the development of tools needed to cover the full production chain, developing and implementing customized microphone setups, post-production tools and delivery/reproduction formats like Wave Field Synthesis/object-based rendering for large scale audiovisual environments or binaural audio for VR and AR applications. The developed tools and methods for true-to-live capturing and reproduction are used for projects with renowned cultural entities like the 'Berliner Philharmoniker' or the Radiochoir Berlin, as well as for industrial applications, e.g. the realistic reproduction of railway noise and noise abatement methods, realized for Deutsche Bahn AG.
Lukasz Gruszka
Lukasz Gruszka holds a double MA diploma in astronomy and computer sciences from the Adam Mickiewicz University (UAM) in Poznan, Faculty of Physics.
EpiLab Team Collaborators
Dr Kamil Szpotkowski
Dr Kamil Szpotkowski – Department of Crystallography Center for Biocrystallographic Research, IBCH PAS, Group of Prof. Mariusz Jaskólski


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What Makes Snowmobiling So Much Fun?
We all have activities that we love to do. Some people love to swim, others like to hike or go jogging, other people still enjoy playing a game of basketball or another sport. Some folks enjoy getting out and hitting the snow, though. Whether they are skiing or snowmobiling, these people take the snow seriously.
And who can blame them? There are some seriously fun activities that snow can make possible. Among the most popular are skiing, snowmobiling, and having snowball fights with your kids.
Of these things, what makes snowmobiling in particular so much fun? Let's take a look! A handy reminder, if you don't have a snowmobile of your own, you can enjoy ontario snowmobile tours that can help you get the feel of snowmobiling while also learning all about the area and wildlife, too!
Snowmobiling is Easy!
Snowmobiling is actually quite easy. Most people seem to think that they might be as dangerous as four wheelers and the like, but snowmobiles can actually be very easy to learn how to drive safely. You can teach almost any age to drive a snowmobile, whether it's your kids, your wife, your brother or sister, or even your grandparents!
No Better Way to Experience Winter
What better way could you experience all the fun the snow has to offer than by sailing across it on a snowmobile? While snowmobiling, you will have the opportunity to take in all the beautiful winter scenery as you ride along. It is quite unmatched in its beauty.
Snowmobiling Can Make Socializing Fun
Snowmobiling can be a brilliant social activity. It encourages people to bring their snowmobiles together and go enjoy the great outdoors, with everyone taking in the beauty of winter and riding together. Snowmobiling can be a great activity for a family or a group of friends.
Most importantly, snowmobiling brings people together. Out of all of these reasons to check out snowmobiling, this is one of the biggest things that make it the most fun and memorable. After all, what is better than creating memories with your family than by doing something everyone will love and remember for the rest of their lives?


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Love books? Gasp in shock when someone has not read your favorite book? Then, you need to stop by for our Reading Club. We will meet during all lunches on Wednesday, November 5th in the library conference room. You may bring your lunch. Be prepared to discuss books to movies …. which is better – the book or the movie. Why?
Also, Cosplay Friday is rescheduled to Thursday, November 6th. The theme is heroes vs. villains. Win prizes for the best costume! Remember that your costume needs to match dress code.


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Holi 2017 celebrations are already underway in many parts of India. Are there similar festivals anywhere else in the world? Let's find out
In a bid to appease local youth, the BJP-led Haryana government has announced a scheme for the educated unemployed. The Shikshit Yuva Sammanit Huva is an employment sop that promises hundred hours of work in a month to the unemployed post graduate youth at INR 9000. Touted as a populist move by experts, the present Haryana government is trying hard to lure its youth, considering that the State is ready to go for the polls in two and half years. The scheme does not address the deep-seated problems...
Anybody with basic political awareness is fairly well acquainted with the location and administrative functioning of states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Most of you may also be residing in cities like Patna, Lucknow, Varanasi, Meerut, Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain etc. But have you ever imagined that the above mentioned cities and states which you live in, were once occupied by mighty and prosperous kingdoms around 2,500 years ago i.e., around 5th- 6th century BC. The importance...
Despite being a late starter, India has achieved a great deal within three decades of cryospheric research. Its stations in the Antarctic, Arctic and the Himalaya have undertaken significant research to unravel the linkages between polar ice sheets, climate change, Himalayan glacial mass and the Indian monsoon.
The Earth Systems Model and the CORDEX programme of Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune are indigenous initiatives that has brought India closer to understanding the change in climate systems over South Asia.
India's climate services are aimed at effectively conveying information to users in South Asia for informed decision-making to reduce risks from extreme events that are the norm in times of climate change.
The marginal farmer is today pitted against the hegemony of the state and its collaborator—the private developer, even as the developing economy fails to provide alternative livelihoods to those in search of non-farm employment.
The future of the PRIs looks bright, with sustained proactive initiatives by the state government and continuous capacity-building interventions by the State Institute of Rural Development-Rajasthan.


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Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom by Astley Baker Davies won the Pre-School Animation category at last night's Children's BAFTAs, and also the extremely coveted Independent Production Company of the Year award went to Astley Baker Davies. We've always worked very closely with the ABD team, and they've been with us since the beginning, using CelAction2D on The Big Knights, Peppa Pig and Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom. We wholeheartedly congratulate them on all they've achieved.
It's not only the Pre-School Animation category of the Children's BAFTAs where CelAction2D has been used - Horrible Histories by Lion Television is nominated for Best Factual and Best Writer, Peppa Pig by Astley Baker Davies is nominated for Best Writer, and Astley Baker Davies is nominated for Independent Production Company of the Year.
CelAction has announced a brand new competition to help students in that crucial time when they have left college and are looking for that first job. Over the next year, any completed animation project made using CelAction2D software as part of the college curriculum will be eligible to win a licence of CelAction2D Professional Edition software and $1000. What's more, the entries will be judged by a panel of industry leaders - Neville Astley and Mark Baker (creators of Peppa Pig), Iain Harvey (producer of Little Princess) and Anthony Lucas (director of The Mysterious Geographic Explorations Of Jasper Morello) - meaning that everyone who enters will have their work seen by real decision-makers and creators.
The deadline for entries is December 1st 2010, and full rules for the competition can be found here.
All four of the nominees for the Pre-School Animation category of the Children's BAFTA awards are made with CelAction2D. Humf by King Rollo Films, Peppa Pig and Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom by Astley Baker Davies, and Little Princess by The Illuminated Film Company are all up for this prestigious prize. The ceremony will be held on 29th November.
Dustbunnies by SquareZero was one of the top ten projects in terms of interest from broadcasters and distributors at Cartoon Forum in Stavanger, Norway, according to Cartoon.
There are three projects being presented at Cartoon Forum in Norway that have involved CelAction2D in the production of their pilots - Billion Dollar Bow-Wow by Pesky Productions, Dustbunnies by SquareZero and The Arctic Ring by West Highland Animation. CelAction will also be there, so if you want to set up a meeting, please let us know.
Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom by Astley Baker Davies is nominated in the TV For Kids category at the Ottawa International Animation Festival 2009, held on the 14th-18th October.
At the Television Animation Conference held in Ottawa on 14th-15th October, CelAction will be giving a seminar about our products and vision for the animation industry.
CelAction is proud to be a Major Sponsor of the Ottawa International Animation Festival.
Digital Video and CelAction today announced their collaboration to make Digital Video's Story Planner Pro software work seamlessly with CelAction2D, enabling users to export Story Planner Pro's storyboard data directly into CelAction2D's timeline.
Mama Mirabelle's Home Movies, by King Rollo Films and National Geographic, has landed a nomination for Outstanding Pre-School Children's Series at the 36th Daytime Emmys. Vanessa Williams has been nominated for her role as Mama in the Outstanding Performer In An Animated Program category.
Horrible Histories, with animation by Triffic Films, begins its run on BBC1 from Thursday 16th April at 4.35pm.
Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom by Astley Baker Davies is nominated in the TV Series category, and Mixed Bag by Isabelle Favez is nominated in the Short Film category of the Annecy Film Festival 2009.
Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom by Astley Baker Davies premieres exclusively in the UK on Nick Jr. on Monday 6th April, and will air at 7.30 am and 4.30 pm.
Humf by King Rollo Films premieres exclusively in the UK on Nick Jr. on Monday March 2nd, and will air daily at 6 pm.
Charlie & Lola by Tiger Aspect Productions won Best Animation and Best Pre-School Animation at the Children's BAFTAs held in London.


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Green With Envy?
This story appears in the September 2004 issue of Entrepreneur. Subscribe »
If your sales are greatly in need of an elixir, some sort of pick-me-up to boost production, one way to ramp up sales is to hire a rainmaker-a seasoned sales pro who has multiple connections and years of experience in your industry. Scottie Oliver, co-founder of sales consulting firm EA Group in Alpharetta, Georgia, believes that at least 20 percent of a sales manager's time should be dedicated to hiring and integrating sales superstars into an organization.
Bringing in a superstar creates unique management concerns, though, and you'll do well to take a few pointers from the experts:
- Engage the team in the selection process. Pick one or two reps to be part of the selection and interview process. According to Gerry Murak, a turnaround performance specialist and founder of Murak & Associates in Williamsville, New York, assembling a cross-functional team has many benefits. Murak says that involving team members in hiring raises the performance bar for the entire team and removes the confrontational aspect of the assimilation phase. Murak adds that, during team interviews, "positive chemistry becomes readily apparent, as does an 'oil and water' scenario." Having worked with such clients as Ford, General Mills, and GM, Murak warns that hiring a stellar seller using a top-down management strategy is "tantamount to throwing a live grenade in the middle of the team."
- Prepare for the care and feeding of a ringer. When someone has a fabulous sales track record, a certain amount of bragging is to be expected. But large egos can unleash havoc in a team, and sales superstars may be hard to manage. As Harry Mills, author of The Rainmaker's Toolkit: Power Strategies for Finding, Keeping and Growing Profitable Clients, explains, genuine superstars have a right to be treated differently. Says Mills, "A true expert should be given free rein whenever possible."
Oliver warns that "some superstars feel they can make their own rules," and he encourages entrepreneurs to establish expectations for the rep-such as pipeline/forecast reporting and conference call participation-prior to hiring.
- Work on that team fit. Ray Silverstein cautions that, no matter how impressive he or she is, the new salesperson will "destroy the culture" if he or she doesn't fit into the team. Silverstein, whose Chicago-based President's Resource Organization creates and facilitates advisory boards for small businesses, adds, "The overall rule is to hire people who fit into the company's belief system."
- Avoid the superstar label. Your staff may already be a bit jaded about the new guy, so avoid any fawning. Murak points out that if the new rep is truly a superstar, his results will be obvious-no extra gushing from the sales manager is required. Mills says to keep the introduction low-key and welcome the new rep in exactly the same way as other new staff members. "Be matter-of-fact when talking about the sales star's previous accomplishments, and don't use the word 'star,'" adds Mills.
- Use the rainmaker to build a stronger team. Since sales reps thrive on competition, having an übercloser in the next cubicle can be a great motivator. Make it a condition of the new rep's employment that he or she will counsel other team members. Oliver, who encourages sales managers to align the new hire with a "diamond in the making" rep, explains that the benefits are twofold: "The superstar learns the company ropes quickly, and the up-and-comer gleans expertise from a proven performer."
Kimberly L. McCall ("Marketing Angel") is president of McCall Media & Marketing Inc. and author of Sell It, Baby! Marketing Angel's 37 Down-to-Earth & Practical How-To's on Marketing, Branding & Sales.


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Don't suppress your feelings just because someone else doesn't like them.Share what's on your mind, even if it isn't popular. Look out for the underdog. You might be the only one caring for them. Give love. Even when you aren't loved back. These are the things I learned from Grandma this week. We sat for a long while at the table after lunch and Grandma poured out her heart. She talked about life and family, good memories and hard ones, joys and regrets. Occasionally she would say something like, "Maybe I'm talking too much," but I think we both know that wasn't true. What a gift it was for me to be able to re-live some of those moments with her, to see into her heart, and to learn from her experiences. And I think it was good for Grandma, too, to be able to visit those memories once again. I know the reality of our lives is that we're often too busy to spend an hour or more at the table. But what a beautiful thing it is to sit and talk. Better yet, to just sit and listen. I wonder... What would happen if we chose to set aside other things so we had time to sit with each other?
Friday, May 29, 2015
This Week with Grandma
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 3 surviving with me
Labels: This Week with Grandma
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Need Help?
So, one of my children had a, uh, fender bender recently. No one was hurt, and no damage came to the vehicles. But there was a ticket issued. Which had an associated fine. Which has been paid. We thought the situation was over. Until a notice came in the mail stating the correct amount for the fine, including a little line labeled, "balance due." The child has seen the notice - he's the one who opened it - and, yet, it sits on the kitchen counter waiting to be paid. More than once I have asked the aforementioned child when he is going to take care of the aforementioned fine. Each time the child has made a non-committal response about taking care of it sometime. And each time, I have thought about how easy it would be for me to just do it - but known that to do so would not be doing the child any favors. He needs to take responsibility. I know that! I had to help him with the initial fine because it required a cashier's check and he didn't know how to obtain one. So, we went to the bank together and got it. The thing is, I would be happy to help him get whatever he needs to have for the balance, but he hasn't asked. And I'm not just going to do it for him. If he wants my help, he needs to ask me for it.Well, the other day I was looking at the notice sitting on the kitchen counter and pondering my child's inactivity - when I realized God was drawing me a picture of how our relationship sometimes plays out. *I serve a God who can do anything. Any.Thing! *I serve a God who knows what is best for me, who knows everything I need, and who can make it happen.*I serve a God who knows how incapable I am to handle most of what life gives me.*I serve a God who would gladly help me with it all. I imagine He sits in heaven looking at me, and saying something like, Karen, when are you going to have that talk? Have you decided how you're going to handle that circumstance? That other situation still needs your attention. Have you figured out what you're going to do yet? You haven't forgotten, have you, that I am here and would love to help you with each of these things? I'm right here! All you need to do is ask. It's silly, really. I can get so overwhelmed by the things I need to do, all the duties vying for my attention, that I just want to quit. Like a certain child of mine, sometimes I become inactive because I don't know what to do. And all that time God is watching me, waiting for me to ask for help. If I would only ask - He would be there in a heartbeat to show me the way.If I would only ask. Is there something with which you could be asking God to help you?
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: As the Children Grow, Struggling and Growing
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
More Than Words
When Moses finished reciting all these words to all Israel, he said to them, "Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess." Deuteronomy 32:45-47They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. They are your life. Is the Holy Spirit speaking as loudly to you through those words as He is to me? I read this statement in Deuteronomy a week ago and it has been staying with me every day since. And because I have been reading this journey Moses took with the Israelites since the end of March, I have become well acquainted with his passion for the Word of God. I have seen him doing (almost) everything "just as the LORD commanded," (There was that one moment when he hit the rock, which ruined his track record... Yet the consequences even made Moses' passion for obedience increase.) and I have found myself rooting him on, willing the Israelites to just trust and obey. God had been so clear: If His people would follow His commands and obey His word, He would prosper them in the land He was giving them to possess. It wasn't rocket science. Obey God, and life would go well. So as I tagged along with Moses and the Israelites, I was on board with his call that they obey God's word. Fully. I echoed his charge to them, They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. After all, I had read about and seen the consequences of following (or not!) God's word, and along the way I became convinced of the necessity of knowing it and living it out.I simply could not agree more with what Moses said. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. But then the Holy Spirit nudged me to ask, "Karen, are you living as if those words are really true?"Are you???
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: God's Word
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
She Still Makes Me Smile
I've been doing quite a bit of observing over the past three weeks. Noticing the ways my girl is growing and maturing and becoming a beautiful woman of God. And I have just six days left to do it. (She's leaving Sunday for her summer job. Camp counselor. She's going to be so great in the LORD's hands!)
Anyway, with all this watching I've been doing, I have also been doing some remembering. That is, I have reminisced about some of the adorable things she did in her younger days. And I knew that I had blogged about one of them. So, as I prepare to say good-bye to my girl again, I am digging in my archives to share this fun story with you. This story which happened just over eight years ago.
Ever since she could talk, Elizabeth has expressed kindness and compassion with her words. In a journal I'm keeping for her, I often note the sweet things she says and does. Like the time I was feeling low and when I went to bed there was a note on my pillow which she'd written. She told me she loved me, God loved me, and she hoped I was feeling better soon. Elizabeth is such a sweetheart!That's my girl! *smile*
When it comes to her brothers, however, she can take on a very different attitude. She doesn't like them to get into her stuff. I understand that desire, and support her in it. It has become her standard, though, that they aren't even allowed to set foot in her room uninvited. I understand that desire, too, and agree the boys shouldn't go into her room when she isn't in there. But sometimes she goes a little overboard. Even when she is in her room, Elizabeth will get totally bent out of shape if one of her brothers enters without her invitation. It is because of Elizabeth's rantings and ravings about her brothers' need to stay out of her room that I got a BIG laugh Saturday, and determined I know her future career.
We were getting ready for Elizabeth's birthday party. She had invited several girlfriends over for the afternoon and we were busy putting up decorations, cutting out pictures, blowing up balloons, and sorting out prizes. Elizabeth was sure she had some stuffed animals in her toybox in her bedroom that would add nicely to the decorations, but we were both quite engrossed in our current duties and were a bit pressed for time. Previously, we had tried to solicit help from the boys, but since they weren't going to be participating in the party they weren't particularly interested in helping with preparations. Understandable.
So as I was standing there cutting up pieces of paper, I almost lost a finger when I started laughing at the exchange that took place between my kids. Elizabeth put on her sweetest face. The look itself almost said, "You're the luckiest little boy in the world for what I'm about to offer you!" She then said, "Matthew, how would you like to go rummaging through my room?" He immediately stopped what he was doing (I don't remember what it was. He was probably getting ready to pop a balloon or something.) and looked at her. Just as quickly, Joshua popped out from around the corner and said, "I will!" With that, Elizabeth sent the boys up to her room on a hunt for the animals she was sure were hiding there somewhere.
I stood there marveling at Elizabeth's skill to get these boys to do what she wanted them to do - something they had previously made clear they did not want to do. She didn't ask them again to "help get ready for the party". She gave them permission to rummage through her room. By putting a slightly different spin on the activity, Elizabeth got the boys to help. Besides that, she made it fun for them!
Within minutes they had returned with the animals in question.
I'm telling you, that girl ought to be in sales. I didn't ask her how she thought about her approach, and I don't know how long she'd been working on it. But she came up with it, and it worked.
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: As the Children Grow, Elizabeth
Monday, May 25, 2015
Friday, May 22, 2015
This Week with Grandma
Some days are easier than others. Know what I mean? This week has seen quite a few of those "others" for Grandma. A nasal infection seems to be the culprit - as it interferes with her sleeping ability, and the antibiotic she's taking to clear it up was giving her stomach problems. The combination of those two things left her feeling kinda rotten. Not a good time. Grandma's trouble, coupled with my own issues this week, have made for a cloudy atmosphere around my house. But as we sat down for lunch yesterday she held her hand out toward me (Because that's what she always does.), and I took her hand in mine and we bowed our heads to pray. As I always do, I thought about the things for which I could give thanks. I thanked God for Grandma's physical improvement, for her massage therapist who was going to be coming that afternoon, and for... And for God's faithfulness. Because His faithfulness is so good, and so complete, and so, well, faithful. As I prayed those words I noticed a smile spreading across my face, which seemed to also be making its way to my heart. And I remembered part of the lesson from last week's Sunday school class - that it is impossible for us to have both a thankful and discouraged attitude at the same time. I remembered it, and I was proof of it. Because sitting there thanking God and meditating on His faithfulness had completely changed my heart. Which made me even more thankful. And put me on an upward spiral. That's the beautiful thing about God and His faithfulness. When you start thinking about it - thanking God for it - your circumstances become far less important. You remember the ways in which God has carried you through previous trials, He assures you He's still the same today, and you find yourself confident that He's going to see you through whatever it is that's in your face at the moment.And just like that, the "other" days become less frightening. Because God is good. All the time!
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: God is Good, Hope in Hard Times, This Week with Grandma
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Getting Ready to Fight
Prayer has long been an important part of my life. But even in the past several months, God is calling me deeper and deeper into it. He is convincing me more of our need to call on HIM and trust in HIM for all things. Annnnnd, smack dab in the middle of this passion HE is growing in me, here comes War Room. I had the opportunity to see a pre-release screening of this movie a couple of weeks ago and was immediately excited about it. Since seeing the movie I have been more aware of my own prayers, and more confident that God will show HIS power through them. There was a man who stood at the end of the movie (in the theater where I saw the screening) and shouted, "Who will join me in this battle?" I think everyone stood in response to his (HIS!) call and I am eager to go forward in this movement.Here's a look at the heart of War Room. Please take a minute to see what has gotten me so enthused. There has been a call to pray for War Room this coming Friday, May 22. I am full of expectant hope for what God will do in our country and world through the movement which will be started by this movie. And I am going to be praying Friday. Would love for you to join me. You may find specific details here. See you on the battlefield!
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: Prayer
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
When Angels Come Knocking
Oh, the beauty of God and His gracious ways.I was struggling fiercely on Sunday with depressive thoughts. As in, I can't remember the last time I have felt so rotten. I kept "hearing" everything as an attack on who I am. Fighting off the lies with the Truth was physically exhausting me. In my head I knew this was a battle which has already been won. I knew I have the Holy Spirit on my side, and He will empower me with everything I need to overcome these conflicts. Still, I was feeling low. And going lower. Couldn't wait until it was time to go to bed and start on a new day. But Monday morning I woke up ready to go back to bed. Soooo tired. Monday never waits for me, though, so I got up and began my day. I was thankful for a fresh start, trusting in God's mercies which are new every morning, and hopeful it would be a better day. Yet, the cloud from Sunday seemed to still be hanging over my head.Until... An angel came knocking. I was sitting at the table
Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.Isaiah 65:24Oh, the beauty of God and His gracious ways!
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: Anxiety and Depression, God is Good, When the WORD Comes to Life
Monday, May 18, 2015
When God Speaks Through Your Own Words
This past weekend I spoke for a women's retreat. Since I didn't have time to record a video devotion before the retreat, I decided to have a friend capture a moment from one of my sessions to post for you. At this point, we were talking about Exodus 6:6-9, when God was speaking very encouraging words to the Israelites but they were so distressed with their circumstance that they couldn't hear Him. And I shared a story about a time recently when God used an interaction with my dog to remind me that sometimes I act the very same way. BTW, one of the women in attendance lives in my neighborhood. She is the one to whom I was talking about Mindy.May you have a wonderful, Jesus-FULL day!
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: Dog Stories, Video Devotions
Friday, May 15, 2015
This Week with Grandma
OK. So, I am convinced the worst combination of personality traits for any given task is to have a recovering perfectionist doing a job for a doesn't-realize-she-is-a-perfectionist. (When the recovering perfectionist is fully aware of the other individual's - uh - condition.) Especially when the task in question is one which simply cannot be completed to a perfectionist's standard.And there you have the background information necessary to understand the exasperation welling up within my when I say: This week, I faced the greatest challenge I have ev.er. faced while ironing a pair of pants. As in, I was ready to cut apart and re-sew the
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: Control Issues, This Week with Grandma
Thursday, May 14, 2015
HE Knows
Several years ago I memorized Psalm 139, and God continues to speak to me through those words. Yesterday HE had me remembering verse 2.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. ~Psalm 139:2*Honest moment* I love what I'm doing now. Staying home, taking care of Grandma and my family. But sometimes I get tired. Sometimes life's demands get big, and not all things go as planned. Disappointments happen, feelings get bruised, pride tries to rear its ugly head, and I get to top it all off with an achy back. Yeah. I reached that point yesterday. Er, Tuesday. So yesterday I was trying to operate with a smile in place, and a cheery disposition. But it was so fake. I just wasn't experiencing inside what I was trying to portray outside. And I felt like a hypocrite. That is, until God brought Psalm 139:2 to my mind and I remembered that HE perceives my thoughts from afar. I thought, You know how I'm really feeling, don't You, God. I can't be fake to You, because You know my thoughts. By Gods' grace, I was alone in that moment and was able to just let down my guard and be real. I was comforted by the knowledge that HE sees me, and HE knows me. It felt so good to know that I was known. God reminded me that HE knows it all. And HE still cherishes me. I'd love to say that after our moment together, I went on with the rest of my day happy as a lark. But I didn't. And that was really OK with me. Because, instead, I went on with the rest of my day confident that HE knows me. HE can handle my stressful days and overwhelmed feelings. And because of who HE is, I'm going to be just fine. Thank You, God, for knowing and loving even me. If you've been having days like mine, I pray these words will be an encouragement to you, too.
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: Being Real, God is Good, HE - Knowing God
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
HE is Still at Work
Do you ever get the wrong idea about yourself and God?Like, when He's using you in a particular situation, do you ever get the wrong idea that the work might not continue if you aren't there anymore? As if HE needs you? (Instead of the other way around...) I'd like to say I have never been there. But, uh, that would be a lie. The truth is, I've been there more times than I care to remember. The truth is, I was there just a few months ago. And the Truth is, God is still at work. You may remember stories I have shared here about a very special man from Edgewood whom I referred to as "B." This man stole my heart and I simply loved working with him - watching out for his needs, encouraging him to push his capabilities, and sharing our love for God. Honestly, when I resigned from my role at Edgewood part of me felt like I was abandoning him. I mean, he was so special to me and we were making such progress. How could I possibly leave him now? What would come of the strides he had made in his recovery? (Do you see how I was thinking too highly of myself? *ahem*) Well, last Friday I had the delightful opportunity to see B again, at Edgewood. And I'm telling you, my faith in God's faithfulness was bolstered like never before. The office administrator and the life engagement team told me all about the things they were doing with him, and the improvements he's been making. I observed their excitement and listened as they shared stories of what they're doing with B. And I thought, God, You're still at work here. You're continuing to do the good things in B which You started when I was here. It's YOU. Always YOU. I'm thankful for the part I got to play, and I am thankful that You are still at work. You are faithful, God! My heart is peaceful, knowing God is good. I know HE will not abandon those who love Him, and those He loves. I know HE will continue the good works He has begun. I know HE has a perfect plan, and will bring it to completion. And I know all these things depend on HIM. Not me. LORD, Your works are wonderful. I know that full well! Thank You for what You're doing in B - and all over the world. When You call me to participate, please help me remember that You are the One working. And my job is simply to trust and obey.
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: HE - Knowing God, Lessons From the Edge
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Her Prayers
Elizabeth is home!Granted, in less than three weeks she'll be leaving for the summer. (She's going to be a camp counselor.) But, for now she's home. And it makes my heart so happy. Wanna know what makes my heart even happier? Her prayers! The other night Brian asked her to say the prayer before dinner. And my heart was completely blessed when I heard the passion in her voice as she prayed for our little Compassion boy. I could sense her love and thankfulness for God, as well as her faith that He can do all things, just by the way she spoke. Now, I am fully aware that God is not concerned with whether our prayers are "eloquent," and He is not impressed by flowery words. But that isn't what I'm talking about regarding Elizabeth. It isn't our job to judge a person's prayer. I mean only to say hearing my daughter pray was evidence to me of how her faith has grown, as well as her relationship with her Father. You have to understand, this is a girl who used to refuse to pray out loud. She was that timid. But now it seems prayer comes very naturally for her. I think because she's doing it regularly. And that makes my heart so happy. Another happy moment came when I was asking about Elizabeth's skin condition. (She has an eczema-type itchy problem.) She said it really hadn't been bothering her much lately. But even when it did flare up, she didn't mind. Because she has begun using the itching as a prayer cue for her friend. And I thought, You've started using prayer cues??? *BIG smile* If you've been around me for much time, it is likely for you to have a strong sense that I love praying. I love fellowship with God - knowing He is present and listening and active and able to handle what concerns me. I love that He wants me to have this communion with Him! And to see Him cultivating the same thing in my girl? Well, I don't think there is any greater delight for this momma's heart.
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: As the Children Grow, Elizabeth, Prayer
Monday, May 11, 2015
Friday, May 08, 2015
This Week with Grandma
She made me feel like a kid again.A precious, cherished, watched-over little kid. It was so sweet. *smile* Tuesday night, Brian and I went to Grand Rapids to see a pre-release screening of the movie, War Room. You will definitely be reading more about that movie here in the coming weeks and months. It was UH-mazing. So good. Probably the best movie I have ever seen. Mark your calendar for August 28, because you're going to want to go see it. So, anyway, we went to Grand Rapids. Before we left, I told Grandma I thought we'd be home about 10:00. Movie started at 7, I figured we'd be on our way home by 9. So, I thought I was safe in saying we'd be home "around" 10. Well, the movie and evaluation time afterwards took a little longer than I'd anticipated. And then we saw friends as we were walking out, so we stopped to talk with them for a bit. Annnnnd, it was more like 10:45 until we got home. When we pulled into the driveway I could see Grandma's light was still on, so I decided to check in on her before I went to bed. And when I walked into her room, there was a look of uneasiness in her eyes. She said, "Did you have trouble on the way home?" I responded we had not. Then she said, "And you're just getting home now?" (When she asked that question, I realized we were getting home significantly later than I'd estimated for her.) I started to explain the delay when I thought I could see tears welling up in her eyes. So I sat down on her bed and hugged her, saying I was sorry for being late. She said, "It's OK. As long as you're safe. These are tears of joy." And we just sat there for a minute with our foreheads resting on each other. I imagined my grandmother looking at the clock for the previous 45 minutes, wondering when I would get home, worrying that something had gone wrong. Now, when I was a teenager and my MOM did something like that, it absolutely annoyed me. But to know my grandmother was thinking about me all that time, just waiting for me to arrive safely home - well, it blessed my heart. Not that I want to make her worry about me, but there was something very sweet about knowing she cares so much. (Next time I'll call if we're running late. Guess I didn't learn that lesson when I was a teen. *ahem*)
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: This Week with Grandma
Thursday, May 07, 2015
A Letter to My Younger (Mom) Self
I received an email from a young mother this week, asking me to respond to a few questions. One of them was, "What advice would you give yourself during your children's early years, knowing what you now know?" And as I responded to that question (Besides getting an itch to write another book!) I had a yearning to go back and do it all over again. If only I could...But since I can't, I decided to write a letter to my younger (mom) self - in the hopes that someone will read and benefit from it while they're still in the trenches of having really young ones. Dear Karen, First of all, congratulations! If you are reading this letter, it must mean you managed to find a few minutes to get away in the quiet. I know these moments are hard to come by, but you did it. Way to go! Now, let's make the most of this time, because you will surely be called back into action soon. To begin, let me just remove some stress. You need not believe all those well-intentioned ladies who look at you with patronizing eyes and tell you there will come a time when "you'll miss these days." I know you feel guilty when you hear those remarks. Let it go. You aren't going to miss these days. Oh! You will miss many, many of the moments. But you won't miss the entire day. So don't stress when someone says that to you. Just breathe deeply, ask God to give you strength for the day, and try to memorize the sweet moments. While you're thinking about letting things go, may I suggest you rid yourself of that unreasonable expectation you have of being a "perfect" mother? It can't be done. Honey, you know nothing in life is perfect. So quit expecting that your new role as "Mommy" should change the course of history. You aren't perfect. You never will be perfect. And that's OK. By the way, none of the other moms around you are perfect, either. Truthfully, they're all struggling in one way or another. You don't need to go through your trials alone. Open up. Share with the other moms you know. You'll be amazed how much better you feel when you realize you aren't alone. Being a mom is tough stuff. I know you know that. And, really, it's OK that you get tired; that you don't know what to do in every situation; that sometimes you want to run away. It's OK, Karen. Please let go of the guilty feelings you have when those moments come. God knows you want to be the best you can be. He knows you fail sometimes. You need not feel guilty about living through tough stuff. Let it go. You'll feel so much better. And it will be better for your kids, too. You need to know there will be challenges with your boys when it comes to potty-training. But, do not worry. They'll figure it out. Eventually. Actually, they're going to laugh one day about the fact that you used to give them M&Ms when they were learning to use the potty. And you'll laugh with them. But forget about trying to get them to do their chores by rewarding them with M&Ms. It won't work.Oh, and Matthew will stop wetting the bed eventually, too. You're going to think the day will never come. But it will. Trust me. Just don't expect it to come before age 10. *ahem* In short, my dear, you will do well to trust God more - and worry less. A lot less. God is faithful. Always has been and always will be. You're going to grow a lot in your relationship with Him as you go through the different phases and challenges of motherhood. It's going to hurt. Sometimes you'll wonder if He's still watching you. Be assured, He is. Just keep holding onto Him. Keep trusting Him to do what He knows is necessary. And always - let Him fight for you!
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: Grace for Moms, Motherhood Encouragement
Wednesday, May 06, 2015
I Can't Hold My Tongue Any Longer
OK, so I don't typically deal with hot topics or controversial issues here at Surviving Motherhood. That simply is not the purpose of this blog. HOWEVER, with all the recent talk about gay marriage I have come across several "Jesus hung out with sinners" statements which I feel are complete misrepresentations of who He was and what He did. And I cannot sit by and say nothing. I just can't be passive on this one.Please read my words as a plea to honor Jesus and understand His actions - not as an attack on the homosexual community. I have read statements from people who were arguing in defense of gay marriage by pointing out that Jesus was a friend of sinners. Some commenters supposed that Jesus would attend the weddings of the gay folks with whom He was hanging out. And bake the cake. And take the pictures. I didn't read any suggestions that He would also be the "Best Man," but that was the path down which these comments seemed to be going. I am not about to deny that Jesus was a friend of sinners. I am so thankful He is - because He reached out to me when I was lost in my sin. And I am not sure I can predict whether or not He would attend a gay wedding. What I am sure of, though, is that Jesus would not celebrate sin, or encourage people to carry on in it. And that's what really burdened me about the comments I was reading. People seemed to be equating Jesus' fellowship with sinners with His condoning of the sin. Jesus hung out with sinners, yes. But He did not celebrate their sin. Rather, He called them to turn from it. Consider, for example, Zacchaeus the tax collector. You can read his story here. Jesus was going to go to his house, and the people who knew Zacchaeus were shocked. Why would Jesus be the guest of a "sinner?" But Jesus wasn't going over to Zach's house to help him plan ways to steal more money from the people. In fact, something about just being in the presence of Jesus caused Zacchaeus to repent of his sin and promise to make things right. Jesus followed up Zach's proclamation by stating that He had come to seek and save the lost. And save. He didn't come to seek and further expel the lost. He came to save them. (Us!) What about the woman caught in adultery? Jesus came to her rescue. He got her accusers to leave her alone by telling them that the one who was without sin could cast the first stone at her. But once they had all left, Jesus didn't say to her, "OK. As you were!" He told her to leave her life of sin. And so it was with the Samaritan woman at the well, and the sinful woman who anointed Jesus. Jesus did not shun these women, as many of the "righteous" people around Him did. He forgave them, and He called them to follow Him. But He did not celebrate their sin and encourage them to keep living it.
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 6 surviving with me
Tuesday, May 05, 2015
Indirect Communication 101
Me: I had a crazy dream last night. *Insert/imagine dream summary here.* Hubby: Sounds stressful. Did it make you feel like you needed to curl up in all the blankets? (Emphasis placed on "all.") Me: It was. *pause* Oh. Did I steal your blankets? Hubby: Just looked at me. Didn't need to say anything. Me: Oops. Sorry.It's how we roll. For the record: I am really not a fan of indirect communication. Therefore, when I want to complain about his snoring, I come right out and say it. *wink*
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: Communication, Marriage, Mr. Wonderful
Monday, May 04, 2015
Here We (Don't) Go, Again
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 0 surviving with me
Labels: Trusting God, Video Devotions
Friday, May 01, 2015
This Week with Grandma
I have experienced lots of wonderful things while my grandmother has been living with us.Reliving good memories (and making new ones!), hearing new stories, seeing faith in action, and being stretched (in good ways) - just to name a few. This week I was able to see another wonderful thing. That is, the picture of a beautiful friend doing a simple thing, which made a big impact. My grandmother has a friend - who is young enough to be her daughter. Over the years I have heard her name mentioned many times, and I've known she is special to my grandma. Because she is so kind. This dear woman makes sure that Grandma receives mail (And not just of the electronic type. She sends cards and notes regularly via snail mail, too.) and phone calls. She keeps in touch and helps keep my grandmother's spirits lifted. Two weeks ago when they were talking, Grandma mentioned to her friend that she'd just finished reading a book and was confused about a couple things. Said she couldn't wait to talk with someone else who has read it, so she could resolve the questions in her mind. So, Saturday this friend called for Grandma, and guess what? She had just read the book, and was ready to talk with Grandma all about it. They were on the phone for quite some time and as soon as she hung up, Grandma told me all about how sweet this friend of hers is. "She got that book and read it, just so she could talk about it with me!" I've heard her repeat the story several times this week. She's told my aunt, the aide who comes to give her a shower, her nurse, and anyone else who will listen. That simple act - reading a book so a conversation could be had - meant so much to my grandmother. I think it made her feel loved. Like she mattered - and what she was thinking about mattered. Someone went out of their way to do something for her (simple as it was) and I don't think she'll ever forget it.Makes me wonder how many opportunities we have to do "simple things" which would make a big impact. And how many times we walk right past them. Let's keep our eyes open, shall we?
Posted by Karen Hossink at 6:00 AM 2 surviving with me
Labels: This Week with Grandma


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Using HomeRight products is the best way to paint spindle legs. I've been painting furniture for quite some time (a lot longer than I've been blogging, hence I call myself a "Newbie Blogger") and by far a piece with spindle legs is always my favorite. Hey Sweet Friends, It's Cynthia at Create With Cynthia. Have you ever wondered how best to paint furniture with spindle ... Read the Post
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On October 26 Caviste launches three wines from Ferdinando Principiano on the Swedish market. The wines can certainly be interesting for wine drinkers also in other countries. It is question of three different grape varieties: dolcetto, barbera and nebbiolo. Ferdinando Principiano tries to work as naturally as possible but is not so interested in certifications. Instead, he believes that the wines should stand for themselves. It is the following three wines (two bottles each, six bottles at ~100 euro total).
Sant'anna 2016, Ferdinando Principiano
The wine is aged on steel tank and is ready before the summer. The nose is marked by quite dark fruit and the taste has a fairly high acidity and a little sweet finish. The aftertaste has wet stones, but not in a bad way. The wine goes well with food, but it can be a bit heavy on its own. But with a lasagne or creamy pasta it will be perfect.
Barbera D'Alba Laura 2015, Ferdinando Principiano
Steel tank until the autumn of 2016. Flowery aromas with a little grassiness. The wine has a touch of prickly acidity and quite fresh. The wine has a distinct acidity with red creamy fruit on the finish. There's a lot going on and the wine goes through several phases.
Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 2013, Ferdinando Principiano
The wine is aged in large botti and has 60 days of fermentation. It has been aged for two years, is then bottled and aged one more year. The sulphur levels are kept as low as possible. The wine has a nice and quite light nose. The wine is very well balanced. It also has a wide range of flavours: dark fruit and some black currants but also some tar, some rose petals. All this together is an exciting mix. Big tight tannins, as it should be.
All-in-all, a big span of well-balanced wines that are drinkable already now but probably will improve with a little patience.
Tobias Karlsson writes on BKWine Magazine on wine tastings with wine merchants and importers.
For the enthusiast, BKWine has also written a book on the wines and wine producers in Piedmont.
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There are many exciting wines and producers in the Piedmont. Come on one of BKWine's wine tours to Piedmont and you will experience some of the best.
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Wine tours that you simply won't forget. BKWine wine tours.


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Being a avid lover of music and dance I enjoy this festival a lot. The sound of the dandiya..especially when they come along together then those beautiful moves of garbha where your hand and body swing to the music and that beat of the drum…all together in big ground where everyone is just bothered about themselves and nothing else…they call it being "magn" in hindi.
I sometimes wish I was born in a gujju family to enjoy this festival extensively. I think it also comes with a fact that I love to dance…and moving the way garbha requires you to move is fun..totally brings a smile on my face.
If you play a loud dandiya or garbha track around me..you will see my feet tapping and hands moving..coz I can't stop. The music is exciting and attracting that you cannot let go of it.
By the way I write I am sure your thinking that I go do dandiya and garbha this time of every year but no… even though I whole like seriously WHOLE heartedly enjoy it but I don't get to go. The music is so addictive for me that when I am travelling back from work..i think and feel the world around me doing garbha with this nice garbha music in the back drop..wow it would be if I could join them on the way :P (my crazy filmy dreams I tell you )..if I get a chance I would go all decked up in gujrati clothing and dance all the 9 days…so now you know how I like it.
Some songs that can make your feet go tapping are..
· Pari hun main
· Chand aaya hai zamin par – Dil hi dil main
· Shubhaarambh - kai po che
· Womaniya – with some drum beats of garbha
· Main toh bhul chali babul ka desh
· Sherawaliye..
Saavn has an exclusive playlist of these songs..i loved it…I just have one thing to say…
Let the Raas begin… (for me in my head for you if you can go hit the garbha & Dandiya ground from tomorrow)


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Miami Beach, which is situated slightly northeast of downtown Miami, sits on a barrier island and connects to the mainland using a series of bridges. If you're interested in visiting some of the lively neighborhoods here, you'll find plenty of things to see and do. Discover some of the best places to eat and top attractions around Miami Beach with this guiding itinerary.
Early Morning: Flamingo/Lummus
Flamingo/Lummus is an urban neighborhood toward the southern end of Miami Beach. It was named after the famous Flamingo Hotel that was once part of the neighborhood. Today you can find plenty of restaurants here for a hearty breakfast. Stop by The Front Porch Cafe and see why it's one of the most popular spots on the beach for breakfast. You'll find menu options that include French toast, omelets, pancakes, and even a breakfast pizza.
Midmorning: City Center
Just north of Flamingo/Lummus is the City Center neighborhood. Here's where you'll find Lincoln Road Mall, which offers some of the best shopping in Miami Beach. This 10-block stretch of outdoor entertainment, dining, and shopping is just a few blocks from the beach. You'll find mainstream apparel stores that include Anthropologie, H&M, and Nike. There are also specialty shops, such as Pottery Barn, Bang & Olufsen, and The Dog Bar.
Noon: North Shore
As the name suggests, the North Shore neighborhood is in the northern portion of Miami Beach. If you're looking for a good spot for lunch, head to this neighborhood for El Tablazo Restaurant. This family owned and operated restaurant serves authentic Colombian food, such as bandeja paisa and pollo apanado.
Afternoon: South Beach
No trip to Miami Beach is complete without a stop at the beach, and the South Beach neighborhood is where you need to go. Here you'll find the famous South Pointe Beach, with its long stretch of white sand and beautiful blue water. Here you can claim your spot on the sand to enjoy the sun or people watch.
Dinnertime: Bayshore
The Bayshore neighborhood is located in the center of Miami Beach. Although known as the home to the Miami Beach Golf Club, this is also a good neighborhood to visit for dinner, since it's where you'll find The Forge. This upscale farm-to-table restaurant has dishes that include local red snapper, dry aged New York strip steak, and lemon herb chicken.
The neighborhoods of Miami Beach offer plenty of exciting attractions worth exploring. Use GoDoTrip to help you find accommodations, attractions, and more for the best trip to these top neighborhoods.


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Fast Lawsuit Loans in Benson, Utah
In the great state of Utah and, more specifically, in the city of Benson, Funds4Claims is the best choice as your lawsuit funding source for all of your litigation finance needs. Funds4Claims offers quick and easy, low cost settlement loans to Benson and all of its surrounding areas. Funds4Claims is a lawsuit funding company that offers low-cost lawsuit loans to residents of Benson and surrounding cities. With Funds4Claims it is easy for residents of Benson to qualify for lawsuit funding, we do not require personal or business credit. The only requirement for a lawsuit cash advance is that you have a valid lawsuit. Our lawsuit financing can help you pay for the cost of litigation or for any other expenses you need money for, we do not carry restrictions on how you use your lawsuit money. Funds4Claims is a highly respected lawsuit funding company that cares about their clients. We strive to provide financial stability for people living in Benson going through the extensive court processes associated with a lawsuit. In addition, Funds4Claims provides litigation funding in Benson, Utah for: Pre Settlement Funding, Post Settlement Funding, Structured Settlement Funding, Commercial Lawsuit Funding, and Law Firm Funding.
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InCare Technologies Expands Into Tennessee Market, Acquires Memphis-Based Managed Service Providers
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – July 1, 2019 – InCare Technologies announced it has purchased a Managed Service Provider, Memphis IT Solutions. The business will operate under the InCare brand. The founders of the business will continue, and have become shareholders in InCare as part of InCare's regional growth strategy. InCare will acquire the provider's team, assets, and customer contracts.
Memphis IT Solutions, founded in 2004, strongly believes the strategic use of technology will empower its clients to take their business to the next level. Driven by client satisfaction and success, the team provides full-service technology solutions such as cloud computing, managed services, and email protection.
"Our mission from day one has been to foster our clients' growth and success," explained founder Paraic Sweeney. "With the newly expanded team, we can better achieve this mission. We're looking forward to this next chapter."
InCare Technologies is a nationally recognized IT managed service provider. It has garnered industry ranking and awards, including inclusion in CRN's Tech Elite 250 and Solution Provider 500, as well as Channel Futures' MSP 501. After branching off from 20+-year-old parent company InLine in 2012, it has experienced rapid growth.
"Making IT safer and more efficient for our customers is our primary goal," said Brian Walker, CEO of InCare. "The team at Memphis IT Solutions share our core philosophy of client-centered service. We now have over 50 techs of all stripes of IT specialties. We're ready to take our business to the next evolution."
About InCare Technologies InCare Technologies is an experienced IT managed service provider headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., with offices in Montgomery, Ala., Jackson, Miss., and Memphis, Tenn. It provides a complete range of IT services, security, as well as InCare 360, an umbrella service that encompasses the totality of a client's technology needs. For more information, go to www.incaretechnologies.com.
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In a few words
The Massif du Sud Regional Park offers 35 campsites perfectly located in the heart of the forest, among which 15 are accessible with a vehicle. All of our sites are shaded and at a good distance from the neighbouring site. There is a stream or a river near almost every site. The beauty of the nature, the quietness and the absence of mosquitoes makes our campground a perfect place for people in search of peace and wilderness.
On every site, you will find a sizeable spot for a tent, a picnic table, a fire pit with a grill and an outdoor toilet nearby. There are also flush toilets and hot showers in the welcome center.
Located at the heart of the Regional Park and right next to its hiking trails, our campground allows visitors to extend their visit in an exceptional setting.
Other Information
Our crushes
Glamping in blissful quietness
Fully-equipped boreal tents, PODs, yurts & wood cabins.
La Grande Boucle
Hike for 2 days, choose your accomodation:camping or cabin!
Swim in crystal-clear rivers
During summer, cool down in our crystal-clear river basins.
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Take on the 15 challenges of our exciting fitness trail!
La Grande Boucle
Hike for 2 days, choose your accomodation: camping or cabin!
This place also offers : Park, Hiking, Rope course, Yurts, tipis, huts and tents, Alpine skiing, Snowshoeing, Cross-country skiing, Mountain Bike and Fatbike


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Worrying about bills and plummeting shrimp prices, Dwayne Harrison stopped to apply for a mowing job one morning recently before dropping his nets in the Houston Ship Channel.
The cents-a-pound he was getting last week for small, head-on wild shrimp is one-third the price of a year ago and less than his catch brought in 1998, the year he bought his 50-foot vessel, Angel Lady.
Harrison, 51, is among Gulf shrimpers who say they're leaving the business or are barely afloat, and many blame imports, which make up more than 90 percent of the shrimp market in the United States. Last year, imports rose by 143 million pounds and are up another 2 percent in 2015.
While driven to the brink, shrimpers in Texas also are driven to anger by the indifference of American consumers.
"In those restaurants," Harrison pointed out, "people will be watching our boats come in while being served shrimp from halfway around the world that are fed antibiotics to keep them alive."
Foreign competition and the rise of aquaculture to fill the world's seafood needs are familiar issues. But illegal antibiotics in farm-raised Asian shrimp is a lesser-known story, one that Gulf shrimpers have begun telling. Shrimp that is being sold in Charlotte grocery stores.
Food and Drug Administration records suggest they have reason to sound warnings.
In August, FDA inspectors set a monthly record by refusing 72 shipments of shrimp, much of it from Malaysia, that either tested positive for antibiotics or lacked evidence of being drug free. Most of the shrimp was turned away from the agency's Southwest Import District, which includes Texas ports.
Through October, the FDA has refused 377 separate shrimp entries — from large containers to small packages — citing antibiotics or veterinary drug residues. In all of 2014, the agency turned away 208 shrimp shipments due to illegal drug residues, and that was nearly four times the refusals of a year before.
The FDA actions acknowledge the worrisome fact that antibiotics relied on for decades are becoming ineffective because of overuse in human health care and indiscriminate use in farming. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 2 million people a year contract serious infections that don't respond to antibiotics and that at least 23,000 die.
In foreign aquaculture, some operators persist in giving shrimp hatchlings feed laced with antibiotics that are prohibited in the United States. They do so to strengthen their immune systems against bacterial diseases. No antibiotics are approved for shrimp farming in the United States.
The discoveries raise questions about whether the speed of global trade has outpaced the ability to keep food safe. Some in the domestic seafood industry contend that the pending 12-country Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement could make it even more difficult for regulators to do their jobs.
The FDA has been criticized over the years for lack of attention to antibiotics. The uptick in refusals suggests that the agency may be getting more vigilant at the borders.
Even so, the FDA inspected just 3.7 percent of 110,000 shrimp shipments last year and tested far less than that in a monitoring system that focuses on risk.
What's more, the FDA, citing lack of resources, is ignoring a 2011 law ordering inspections of thousands of foreign food plants.
For Texas shrimpers enduring one of the hardest seasons in memory, the hit-and-miss regulatory system is another vexing reality. In interviews, several said they're convinced that ships turned away for contamination seek out other ports to bring in their wares.
"It doesn't look like they (the FDA) are doing anything," Dwayne Harrison said, dodging a tanker and barges during a fruitless day on the water.
In April, Consumer Reports disclosed finding antibiotic residues in about 5 percent of imported shrimp purchased at some 300 groceries, big box stores and even at "natural" retail outlets across the country. Tests also found bacteria, including Vibrio, which can cause serious illness.
"The FDA can't be catching all the illegal products on the market when it comes to shrimp and antibiotic residues," Urvashi Rangan, Consumer Reports' director of consumer safety, said in an interview.
After publishing its findings, Consumer Reports made recommendations to top FDA officials, noting that antibiotics in shrimp were especially concerning. The magazine never heard back.
Shrimpers like to say that consumers have no clue what they're getting, no matter what labels and menus say. DNA tests by the advocacy group Oceana last year bear out those concerns. Oceana found that 35 percent of shrimp tested nationwide was misrepresented, a level of mislabeling that rose to 41 percent in groceries.
In a common deception, farmed shrimp, largely from Asia, was sold as Gulf shrimp or simply labeled "wild."
Even in the Gulf region, home to America's biggest shrimp fishery, genetic tests on dozens of shrimp products in nine cities, including Houston and Galveston, showed 30 percent were misrepresented.
Scientists found imported shrimp not listed on the FDA's list of 1,842 species of seafood consumed in the United States and shrimp with unrecognized genetic makeup. Tests on a bag of salad-sized shrimp imported from Vietnam sold at a Gulf grocery showed banded cleaner shrimp, aquarium pets not intended as food.
"When you find out it's your own local seafood involved in this bait-and-switch, it wakes people up," Kimberly Warner, Oceana's senior scientist, told the San Antonio Express-News (http://bit.ly/1QqmB3r).
In Texas, shrimpers say they're falling behind even while catching more.
In September, Texas vessels landed 6.1 million pounds, 600,000 pounds more than September of last year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported. For the year, the catch in Texas is 8 million pounds more than at this time in 2014, attributed to abundant spring rains that moved shrimp from bays and estuaries into the Gulf.
The bigger catch in Texas, it turns out, almost exactly matches the decline in Louisiana from a year ago.
That hasn't made up for abysmal prices shrimpers are getting across the Gulf — one-third lower than a year ago for large shrimp and half the price for medium-sized. Smaller shrimp were bringing just one-third the price of 2014, NOAA said.
Far fewer vessels than a decade ago are chasing the crustaceans.
Andrea Hance, executive director of the Texas Shrimp Association, said the number of permits across the Gulf had shrunk from 5,000 in the early 2000s to about 1,400. Of those, roughly 1,100 are operating, she said.
Hance, who operates two vessels out of Brownsville, said the catch had tailed off after early fall successes. But the price she got last week for her large brown shrimp had ticked up to $3.25 a pound, albeit about half of what it was a year ago. Overall, imports were down 6.5 percent in September, a hopeful sign for the Texas industry.
Shrimpers' challenge, she said, is saving money to withstand times like these and expensive repairs — like the new $25,000 freezer on one of her trawlers.
"One of these years, the sun, the moon and stars will align and we all will make some money," she said.


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Thursday, 9 August 2018
Home Unlabelled Fawn & Frolic Co. - Simcoe County Shop Local
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About Erin Corcoran
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About Erin Corcoran
Real Estate Sales Representative | Entrepreneur | CNE Specialist | Coming from a family of highly-successful Real Estate Professionals, Sales representatives and brokers, as the third generation, I aim at extending my family legacy in becoming one of the best in Canada. I have been mentored and trained by highly successful Real Estate Agents with countless sales and accolades under my belt. As a self-directed learner, I'm passionate about helping people in all walks of life make wiser decisions. My zeal - provide a helping hand has landed me in the Real Estate Industry and part of the Re/Max team.


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Looking to create 'the next big thing'? Look no further than TI's Maker and DIY community! Launch your design with TI's low-cost, community-supported development platforms. Begin rapid prototyping applications in minutes with our microcontroller-based LaunchPad kits, Sitara™-processor-powered BeagleBoards and SimpleLink™ wireless connectivity SensorTags.
Aaron Kondziela is an IoT entrepreneur and designer who is guest blogging to discuss a recent project.
In the first installment of this series , I discussed design goals, component selection constraints, and TI's resources that helped my design process. As every good designer knows, it's always prudent to challenge assumptions and to validate claims with empirical data. In this second installment, I show how I tested the LM35 sensor's performance, built it into a coffee probe, and wrote code to read the temperature.
Testing the sensor
Before writing the code, I wanted to be sure that the sensor output matched what the LM35 data sheet claims (always check assumptions!). A quick setup on a breadboard (see Figure 1) proved the data sheet to be true.
Figure 1: The breadboard, including TI's LM35
The temperature of the LM35 sensor body measured ~24.1ºC with a calibrated FLIR thermal camera (with an assumed emissivity of ε0.90 for the plastic TO92 case), as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: The temperature of the LM35 sensor body
The output of the device was 245mV, right on target, as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3: Power output of the LM35 sensor
Based on this result, I don't need a correction factor in software. The LM35's power dissipation is tiny, so for now I'll skip measuring the self-heating of the sensor.
Building a probe
The next step was to turn the LM35 into an actual temperature probe. I can't just dip it in the coffee, as the liquid would short out the wires. And personally, I prefer my coffee free of solder, epoxy and flux. But maybe that's just me.
I'm putting the probe in near-boiling water, so I want something rated for the job. I scared up a Pyrex test tube made of borosilicate glass, shown in Figure 4. These test tubes have a low coefficient of thermal expansion, making them resistant to thermal shock damage, and being made of glass makes them sanitary and good for use in something I'll be drinking.
Figure 4: Temperature probe using a Pyrex test tube
I can't just drop the LM35 into the tube, either. There needs to be a good thermal bond between the glass and the sensor to transfer the heat from the coffee to the chip. I used some Arctic Silver thermal epoxy to connect the LM35 to the end of the tube. I'm not too worried about the thermal resistance of the overall assembly, as coffee temperatures don't change very rapidly and the probe should be able to stabilize quickly enough.
You'll notice that there's an LED in there as well. It does two things: first, it lets me know that the power is on and that I connected the probe properly. Second, it looks cool.
Sending temperature data
For this project, I used Kinoma Create, which is a development and prototyping tool that you can program with JavaScript. The code below is an excerpt from the git repository, and it represents the heart of things: a message handler that processes the analog value results from a periodic ADC read triggered by a timer. The system uses a PubNub JavaScript library to get the messages transmitted, so I don't need to worry about that part.
I took the temperature reading and made some basic adjustments based on how the ADC returned the value. The LM35 sensor outputs 10mV/ºC, so 22ºC would be 220mV on the output pin. This goes into my analog pin, which when read gives a floating-point value from 0 to 1, representing 0V up to whatever the I/O voltage is set to: 3.3V or 5V.
Note that I am running the sensor at 3.3V, but the data sheet lists 4V as the low end. I tested 3.3V vs. 5V, and the LM35 still worked exactly the same. I chose to push the envelope in this case, as 920mV (or 92ºC) is a greater percentage of 3.3V than it is of 5V. By doing this, I get a smidge more resolution out of the ADC. I'd probably reconsider this choice in a production product.
I now do some conversion to get the temperature, scaling the 0 to 1 range back into millivolts, multiplying by 100 to get degrees Celsius, and subtracting one degree for self-heating. (As I mentioned above, I didn't take the time to experimentally determine that one degree offset. My correction factor is probably on the high side, but I wanted it sketched out in the code to remind me to take care of it later.)
Astute readers may notice that I used only a small range of the ADC's potential for expected temperatures, and this results in lower-resolution data. Ideally, I'd pre-scale things using a DC amplifier with a gain of 2 or 4 so that the temperature signal uses more of the available input range. A precision instrumentation operational amplifier like TI's OPA27 would be perfect here, with its low noise and low offset voltage.
After adjusting my temperature data, I send some messages to the application to let other listening objects know that the temperature value (and analog pin value) has changed. These objects use the messages to trigger updates to the user interface, displaying the values on the Kinoma Create's LCD screen.
Finally, I take the temperature and send it as a message to PubNub as a JSON object. From there, it will flow onto the wot.io message bus, and I can link my data services to it. The bus is fully configurable, and I can dynamically change the message routing to suit. This is an ideal system for iterative development of the analytics applications I need here.
Stay tuned for the third and final installment of this series to finish creating the perfect cup.
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The kid likes revelry. She likes it for her own birthday, but she particularly likes it when others are the subject/recipient. So she sort of turned Fathers Day into a weekend thing. Which was fine by me. We had a long Friday together. Her enrichment program was only Monday through Thursday, so we spent a good part of the day with her watching movies upstairs while I worked downstairs, with a lunch/ice cream break in the middle.
Then she moved into scheming mode. She knew Nicki had a theater thing to see that evening (the kind without song). S0 she urged her mother to go to dinner without us. Why? So we could go to dinner at a place of her choosing. She chose the place (McGonigel's Mucky Duck… see photos below) and the attire (formal, see photos below) and I was inclined to do as she urged. So I wore a tie for the first time since April, when I needed one for a wedding.
Date night with Ian Moore on Friday was plenty fun for me (and we ended up in the Duck's newsletter . . . must've been the fancy duds), but she had to hit the dollar store on Sunday, as was her custom. Which resulted in a plastic blue bouquet to go with the red and white ones she'd given me for previous birthdays … there was also a smiley face balloon and a packet of three pinwheels which it seems she was inclined to pick because it was shareable given that there are three of us in the fam. And a shirt-shaped card from school from the week before. All of which was sweet. As always.
It was a fancy weekend. And the kid brought most of the fancy.


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Arrives in 3-7 Business Days
The long-awaited new edition of this highly praised text now includes full coverage of policy issues and professional practice in nonprofit organizations, as well as at every level of government. It retains the characteristics that have made previous editions a success: an accessible writing style, and an abundance of practical exercises and real life case studies.
In addition to full coverage of the increasingly important role of personnel management in nonprofit organizations, this new edition has been thoroughly updated with the latest in scholarship and research and includes timely material on succession planning, post 9-11 security concerns, increased reliance on volunteers, and the challenges and opportunities of outsourcing.


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Work at 30th Street Senior Center
Join a team that is making a difference in the lives of seniors in San Francisco. The Mission of the 30th Street Senior Center is to help seniors remain healthy, independent and in their communities for as long as possible. The qualities we value in our employees are commitment, team work, and dedication to the well-being of our participants.
In addition to the opportunity of working directly with seniors, 30th Street Senior Center offers family friendly hours, a multi-cultural work environment, and competitive benefits. If you are looking for a career that will give you the satisfaction of helping others and contributing to a worthwhile cause please apply below.


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Kentucky Legal Poker
Online Poker
It's safe to say that Kentucky authorities are not big fans of online poker.
In 2008 the state, under the direction of the governor, attempted to seize 141 domains names connected to online gambling, including domain names like PokerStars.com and FullTiltPoker.com. State representatives claimed that the domain names were "illegal gambling devices" under state law.
The issue went back and forth in Kentucky courts for several years without much resolution.
Regardless, the position of Kentucky authorities is clear: they consider online poker to be illegal in Kentucky, regardless of where servers are located. The lone bright spot for Kentucky online poker players is that, because none of the anti-gambling statutes on the books target players, they have nothing to fear from playing online poker.
In February of 2014 the Kentucky Court of Appeals ruled against the state, ruling that gambling sites are not equivalent to gambling devices.
Live Poker
Apart from certain exceptions for charity, live poker is not licensed, regulated or legal in Kentucky. There are no tribal casinos to offer it, no state-regulated casinos at all and card rooms are not permitted. With the exception of horse racing, the state takes a very conservative view of gambling.
The definition of gambling in the Kentucky Revised Statutes requires something of value to be staked upon a game "which is based upon an element of chance", an incredibly low chance threshold as measured against most other states in the country. This is not a Dominant Factor test or even a Material Degree test. If an "element" of chance is present, the game is gambling. Poker certainly falls into that category.
Many analyses confuse the issue of skill in Kentucky because of a provision in the definition of gambling that provides that "A contest or game in which eligibility to participate is determined by chance and the ultimate winner is determined by skill shall not be considered to be gambling." Poker tournaments and cash games, however, do not determine their eligible participants (that is, their players) by chance. People choose to play or they don't. Thus this provision is inapplicable to poker as we think of it.
The remainder of the gambling provisions in the Kentucky law are aimed at promoters and operators of games. All the criminal offenses under the law only to people "acting other than as a player" who advance or profit from gambling activity. Thus while the game of poker itself is illegal, there is no statute that criminalizes the play of it – only the business of it.
Given that analysis, home games in Kentucky are legal as long as no person profits from the game. In fact, there is an explicit "social game" exception from the definition of "advancing gambling activity" in KRS 528.010 that provides that inviting people to play, permitting the use of premises for a game and supplying equipment used in the game are all OK under Kentucky law for social and home games. The only other requirement to make the game kosher is that nobody profit from running it.