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The Thanksgiving Gift That Keeps on Giving
November 15, 2010 Karen Rutherford
This time of year takes me back to the trip north to Indiana. I'm pretty sure it always will.
On Thursday, October 17th, 2002, I received a telephone call about a job in Indianapolis, Indiana, working as a contractor for Eli Lilly. Eleven days later, I moved and started my new job. I left my son with his nonworking father, who had ever so graciously agreed to temporarily move into my house and "baby-sit" his son so he could finish the Fall semester at school. I felt better leaving him there until I had organized our new life into some semblance of a routine. It took almost two months to just recompose myself, so this turned out to be a smart plan.
Nothing seemed the same to me: the streets, the stores, the businesses, the weather (I needed a coat AND GLOVES in October!), the nicely kempt midwestern people with absolutely no accent (how do they do that?). I participate in this craziness now, but when people in these parts give directions, they actually use east and west and north and south, rather than right and left, as in "Go south on Meridian, then west on Fall Creek". Imagine! It really requires a lot of unnecessary thought as far as this Southerner is concerned.
But it turned out that driving confusion would be the least of my worries. The movers arrived in Indiana at 1:30AM. Yes, A.M. Then, I ended up moving twice because my first apartment was a nightmare. Sign-on monies and paychecks wouldn't come until the end of December. When you're from out of town, new bank accounts require a 10-day deposit hold, and little things like rent checks require in-state checking accounts. Indiana has something called "hard water", and it's just nastiness. Did I mention cold? The 2002-2003 Winter season resulted in the highest snowfall record for the city this century. I could go on and on.
I was sleeping almost an hour each night and, by that weekend, I had developed a newfound attachment to crying. I'm typically not one to express too much emotion or admit defeat, but I told a bestest friend, Sheila, who was back in Memphis about my problem. I told her that I had no idea if it was due to the haze of overwhelming change, the feeling of loss from my son not being with me, or just plain worry about me, about him, about whether or not this decision would go down in the books as right or wrong for us.
She asked me what we were doing for Thanksgiving. There really was no logical way to spend the holiday with my son. Driving to Mississippi and back twice to bring my son to Indianapolis was too much for the four-day break. I couldn't stay with my ex-husband in my house, and he certainly had no plans of meeting me halfway. She asked about flying my son from Memphis to Indy. She even offered to take him and pick him up at the airport. He had flown before, so his "unaccompanied minor" status wasn't an unfamiliar concern. I was touched by her generosity, but I couldn't do it. I was so close to broke by this time and still had to pay for my second move.
The next day, I received an e-mail from American Airlines notifying me that I had been given a gift certificate from Sheila and three other friends she had recruited to donate to my cause. My son and I spent Thanksgiving together, and he was actually excited about the new digs. By spending those four days together, it eased his mind and mine, and helped us both begin to think of this change as a fun adventure. And I finally stopped crying.
What's funny is that I recently had to refresh Sheila's memory about this kindness, while I think about it often and with gratitude just as intense today as it was then. For me, she was God showing up when I least expected Him and so much prettier, too!!
In Changes, Everyday Life
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The life of Buck Brannaman as told through his own stories and experiences. It's a story about a young man coming to terms with his family and ultimately his future through his life changing experiences with horses. Whether you are involved with horses or not, this is a book that opens one's eyes to life's possibilities. Soon to be a major motion picture!


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Home » A Novel Anteroposterior Axis of the Tibia for…
A Novel Anteroposterior Axis of the Tibia for TKA: A WBCT Analysis
Cone Beam CT, Scientific Literature, Weight Bearing CT
On weight bearing CT (WBCT) scans of healthy subjects, the AP axis was found to be positioned in 7.4 degrees of internal rotation relative to the traditional AP axis measured on supine CT scans.
Researchers concluded WBCT clearly showed the effects of full weight bearing on the femorotibial rotation position.
Any systems that may require awkward standing positions during scanning will not provide the best results.
In total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the rotational alignment of the tibial component substantially affects patellofemoral kinematics, patient-reported outcome measures, as well as durability of the implant due to the patellofemoral rotational mismatch which can increase the Q-angle and decrease muscle strength in the quadriceps.
The surgical transepicondylar axis (SEA) is used as a landmark of rotational alignment of the femoral component since the SEA has been believed to represent the flexion-extension axis of the knee in mechanically aligned TKA. The current standard of care utilizes "Akagi's line", a line which passes through the middle of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and the medial border of the patellar tendon attachment, as a confident landmark of the anteroposterior (AP) axis of the tibial component. This method works because the AP axis appears perpendicular to the SEA on supine computed tomography (CT) under knee extension.
Dr. Ryo Sasaki et al. of the Department of of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan, hypothesized that this measurement may be different when comparing non-weight bearing CT (MDCT) scans to weight bearing CT (WBCT) scans. Their study results confirmed that on WBCT scans, the AP axis was positioned in 7.4 degrees of internal rotation relative to the traditional AP axis.
The study compared a total of 43 knee joints in 23 healthy patients. Exclusion criteria included anyone with a history of knee injury, developmental abnormalities including patellar hypoplasia and discoid lateral meniscus, or a history of tibial tubercle apophysitis. WBCT and MDCT images were obtained for all patients.
To match the coordinate systems between the weight bearing and non-weight bearing 3D surface models for each patient, the tibia was matched using the iterative closest-point algorithm. The coordinate system was then applied to the tibia using the method defined by Enomoto et al. The Y-axis (vertical) was defined as the line connecting the midpoint of bilateral tibial eminences and the apex of the tibial plafond. A line was formed connecting the medial margin of the proximal end of the tibial tuberosity and the center of posterior intercondylar notch proximal to the enthesis of the posterior cruciate ligament at the level of the lateral joint space, and the X-axis was the projection of that line onto a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis (Akagi's line). The Z-axis was defined as a line perpendicular to both the X- and Y-axes.
Using 3D surface data of the femur for each condition under which the medial and lateral epicondyles could be recognized clearly, the SEA was determined to connect the sulcus of the medial epicondyle to the lateral epicondyle. The SEA was projected on the X-Z plane, and the straight line perpendicular to the projected SEA was defined as the upright weight bearing axis or upright non-weight bearing AP axis. The angle between the X-axis (Akagi's line) and each newly defined AP axis was calculated. Angular differences between the non-weight bearing and weight bearing AP axes were calculated and defined as the change in femorotibial alignment due to weight bearing in the standing position. Finally, using 3D surface data of the femur and patellar tendon, the attachment of the patellar tendon to the tibia was identified, and the tibial tuberosity was defined as the maximum width of the attachment in the X-Z plane.
The newly defined WBCT AP axis was positioned in a mean of 7.4 +- 4.3 degrees of internal rotation relative to the traditional AP axis. Mean distance between the Akagi's line and the WBCT AP axis at the edge of the tibia plateau was 2.9 +- 1.6 mm. The defined WB AP axis started at one-seventh of the tibial tuberosity away from the medial border of the tibial tuberosity. The non-weight bearing AP axis was positioned in a mean of 3.5 +- 4.1 degrees of internal rotation relative to the traditional AP axis. The mean change in femorotibial alignment due to weight bearing in a natural standing position was 3.9 +- 4.1 degrees of femoral internal rotation relative to the tibia.
The study concluded that WBCT clearly showed the effects of full weight bearing on the femorotibial rotation position and supported the researchers' initial hypothesis that the tibial AP axis in weight bearing position would differ from the traditional non-weight bearing AP axis.
Researchers stated that weight bearing AP axis is about 7.4 degrees internally rotated relative to the traditional non-weight bearing AP axis, at about one-seventh of the tibial tuberosity away from the medial border of the tibial tuberosity.
It was noted a similar study by Hirschmann et al. looked at the femorotibial rotation of symptomatic knees under upright weight bearing conditions. That study found that the tibial AP axis in the axial plane was in 3-degree internal rotation relative to that in the supine position. A major limitation of this study, however, was that the system required patients to put their foot in into a small gantry and set their contralateral foot aside or stabilize their body using supportive tools such as a pole. Therefore, the authors discounted how accurately Hirschmann was able to accurately portray true weight bearing or a natural standing position.
To read the full study click here.
WBCT + Coverage Mapping Finds Significant Subluxation of the TTJ in PCFD Patients
Key Points Weight bearing CT (WBCT) combined with coverage mapping (CM) and 3D distance mapping…
CurveBeam AI Cast: Orthopedic CT Imaging Accreditation in a Changing MedTech Landscape
The medtech landscape is constantly evolving. Keeping up with those changes to maintain accreditation standards…
KU Researchers Define Baseline Measurements to Detect Subtle Lisfranc Injuries on WBCT
Key Points: Up to 20% of subtle Lisfranc injuries are missed on initial plain films.…
previous post: Effective Dose of HiRise Hip Scan "Substantially Lower" than MDCT
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


In Balthazar (1. stories) a donkey is at the 'centre of the action'. He is not reduced to the role of a piece of living scenery, but is given the leading part.
Balthazar (1. stories) confronts the spectator with his narcissistic desire to identify with the animal, fully knowing that this projection – which is fundamental to conventional theatre – is inadequate for this situation. Looking at the animal, the spectator is tempted to assign a psychological significance to his behaviour and an artistic or an anti-artistic purpose; he may assume that the donkey is complying with the performance, that the beast is understanding and approving of it, that he is participating in the piece and developing it further using artistic means. Inevitably we follow this reading of the animal, while being fully aware of its absurdity. Neither theatre nor film can communicate an animal's thoughts – or, arguably, their sentiments. In fact, the same applies to humans, but there are conventions and techniques in the media that allow us to forget that. On stage, however, we can bring to the fore anthropomorphization and other projections that the spectator applies to the animal, and reveal the limits of such identifications and projections.
The Balthazar project is inspired by Robert Bresson's film Au hasard Balthazar (1966), which tells the eventful life story of a donkey. The performance repeats on stage the artistic approach to the animal applied by Bresson on film: a donkey is transferred into an alien artistic context designed for representing humankind – and this impacts both on the animal and the context in which it is placed. The piece shifts back and forth from performance to theatre – where we define performance as a live and active intercommunication between performer and audience (and among performers) that has an open outcome, and theatre as a specific representation of an absent meaning.
Balthazar is a longterm artistic research project by David Weber-Krebs (director) and Maximilian Haas (dramaturgy/theory) that explores our cultural relationship with animals using the means of theater. The performances show an encounter of one animal and a group of human performers on a stage. A donkey – Balthazar – is the protagonist, the centre of the action.
You are currently browsing the david weber-krebs blog archives for February, 2013.


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Watch over 500,000 streaming movies and TV episodes in HD, from Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more. Plus, access tens of thousands of channels, apps, and Alexa skills.
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The archives are a bit like the town's attic, gathering evidence of Littlehampton's past and a lot more besides.
The museum, at Manor House, Church Street, Littlehampton, is now home to myriad items ranging from gas cookers to rare archaeological discoveries, all incredibly well organised.
To celebrate the 90th anniversary, the museum team wanted to give a taste of this eclectic mix, so they brought out as much of the collection as they could to form a new exhibition, Opening Littlehampton's Attic.
It is the largest number of objects ever to be displayed in an exhibition at the museum.
Ian Buckland, chairman of Littlehampton Town Council's community resources committee, said: "This is a fantastic way to celebrate the museum's birthday.
Staff at the museum, which first opened its doors back in 1928, are throwing a birthday party on Saturday, August 11, at 10.30am, featuring crafts, games and cake.
To complement the display, museum curator Alexander Woodward will be hosting a special session on Saturday, August 18, at 11am, looking at the archives in more detail and showcasing even more items so visitors 'can get up close and personal'.
Opening Littlehampton's Attic runs until Friday, September 7. Visit www.littlehamptonmuseum.co.uk for more information.


by Ray Poirier | Officials of International Game Technology (IGT) have asked the West Virginia Lottery Commission to approve a rule change that would permit slot machines to pay out up to 99.9%.
By law, the machines currently cannot pay out more than 95% and actually the slot machines at the state�s racinos the percentage now average 92%.
But the high takeout, says IGT, makes the machines less competitive with the slots in Pennsylvania where the takeout is more attractive. Also, says the machine manufacturer, use of the more common computer chips would make new machines available more rapidly.
Lottery officials have asked for time to study the request but a regional newspaper has editorialized against the change, fearing it might reduce state revenue.


Oh, Lets play Lets play with the magic machine. Put something inside and wait for the beep. What comes out may be suprising you know! Oh, Lets play Lets play the magic machine.
The game is simple. Put something into the magic machine and the next person to post tell you what you got for that item and puts something in for themselfs.
Person 1: I put in a Cookie.
Person 2: You got a Muffin. I put in a Clock.
I put in a 1961 Gibson EB-0 & a Gibson Flying V!
Yuri Recives a 1996 Gibson Les Paul Studio Limited Edition Gem Series Topaz!
HUkyasuto puts a toothpick in the machine.
You get a 100 prof War Sword + 20 Blue Upgrade Stones.
I put in hair sample.
"Meh. Fluted Short Swords are still crap to me."
You get a Cherry that when gets Eaten, Provides R1 Pally status for a good 77 Minutes.
I put in the 20 Blue Upgrade Stones.
"Yey. I dont even like Blue UG's."
Takes out the Dust and puts in a Cardboard Box instead.
Battle Short Sword 40 - 72 W/ 42 Crit.


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В спи́ске объе́ктов Всеми́рного насле́дия ЮНЕ́СКО в Пана́ме значатся 5 наименований (на 2012 год), это составляет  от общего числа ( на  год). 2 объекта включены в список по культурным критериям, 3 объекта — по природным. Укрепления Портобело и Сан-Лоренцо признаны шедевром человеческого созидательного гения (критерий i) и находятся в Списке всемирного наследия, находящегося под угрозой. Национальный парк Дарьен и резерваты Таламанка-Рейндж и Ла-Амистад признаны природными феноменами или пространствами исключительной природной красоты и эстетической важности (критерий vii).

Панама ратифицировала Конвенцию об охране всемирного культурного и природного наследия 3 марта 1978 года. Первый объект на территории Панамы был занесён в список в 1980 году на 4-й сессии Комитета всемирного наследия ЮНЕСКО.

Список

 Географическое расположение объектов

Примечания

Ссылки

 Panama . UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Панама
Списки:Панама

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Conservation Management Plans
Curtilage Analysis
Demolition Reports
Fabric Significance Grading
Heritage Design Advice
Heritage Expert Witnessing
Heritage Management Documents
Heritage Project Management
Interpretation Strategies
On-Site Heritage Architects
Photographic Archival Recordings
Schedule of Conservation Works
Statements of Heritage Impact
Temporary Protection Plans
Infrastructure & Civil
Telecomms
Theatres & Stadiums
Heritage Disconnect
Dr. Robyn Clinch (see reference below) writes that there is a considerable disconnect between the theoretical education of potential heritage practitioners and those whose task it is to process heritage applications for proposed developments involving heritage buildings. This is especially the case in Australian planning jurisdictions. Although there are excellent theoretical principles that underpin practice by heritage professionals, the implementation of these practices, in reality, relies upon mechanistic and autonomous controls on the part of planning apparatchiks whose knowledge is not necessarily aligned with ever-shifting heritage orthodoxies. Nor should they necessarily be. I will come back to this point in just a moment.
Fig 1 – Heritage building in Coolgardie, Western Australia
The Burra Charter is a pre-eminent Australian heritage document that lays out clear conservation techniques for cultural built heritage places in Australia. It is an amalgam of philosophies and ideas that attempt to systematise approaches to technical heritage problems and issues. Its primary ontology seeks to convert the theoretical into the practical. However, its precepts are arcane and rarely understood by non-heritage professionals. Additionally, a one size fits all approach to specific heritage problems invites a plethora of different responses according to the subjectivity and proclivities of the beholder. Heritage is in essence, is a social construct and is therefore prone to multiple perceptions and interpretations. This brings me back to the point above about why it is not necessary for planners (non-heritage professionals) to know the ins and outs of heritage. After all, heritage is a hybrid specialisations of planning, architecture, law, aesthetics, culture, history and building technology; not to mention geography, anthropology, social science, archaeology and interpretation – a rare combination of skills and knowledge. It is therefore best to have trained heritage professionals processing development applications that involve heritage buildings and places and not planners. Like medicine, planning has become siloed into specialties amongst which 'heritage' is one such specialty. Having said that, I have noticed recently that there has been a shift in NSW planning jurisdictions (councils) away from in-house staff (planners) being involved in heritage decision-making. Many applications involving heritage today are either processed by internal, trained heritage staff (usually hired on an as-needs basis), design review panels comprising architects (but not necessarily trained heritage professionals) or are delegated to private heritage consultants who consult directly to council for specific applications by way of peer review. This is a good move and augers well for the sector. In these blogs, I have repeatedly invoked the moral that cultural built heritage is high art and a rare science. It is not to be treated lightly. Once destroyed, removed or vandalised, it can never be regained. In this respect, it is priceless. But priceless not in monetary terms – priceless in social terms. No matter the rate of change to urban infrastructure (Sydney has recently witnessed massive change to its CBD, suburbs and peripheral towns as result of a boom in development), it is always necessary to manage and protect the identified heritage stock. Being flexible and pre-emptive with heritage management systems is key. However, having the correctly trained and suitable staff processing heritage applications is essential and local and state governments need to allocate sufficient resources for this. By the same token, politicians require the political will for this to happen.
Paul Rappoport –Heritage 21
Clinch, R – Fabric and
philosophy – heritage fabric and statutory controls in Proceedings of the
Fabric – The Threads of Conservation (Australia Icomos Conference, Adelaide),
Unlisted Heritage Items – Erring on the Side of Caution
Most countries, regions and states utilise heritage listing as a means of protecting heritage assets, but many of these lists…
Heritage-Tourism – Loving it to Death
How often have we all heard or read the phrase; "Tourism is a driver of economic development".
What a Heritage Professional Needs to Know
In accordance with the Draft Guidelines for Education and Training – Practical Instructions for Practitioners, the ICOMOS International Training Committee…
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In regard to cultural built heritage, who and what is the community? Is it confined to people who live in…
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It is now available with exciting features to enrich your shopping experience with City Centre Ajman
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City Centre Ajman continues...
City Centre Ajman continues expansion with new international brands and more convenience-based services
Shops, F&B concepts, parking zone and a new entrance next to Carrefour are a part of the mall's AED 643m revamp, providing greater convenience and choice
Majid Al Futtaim—the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia – has added 18 new international stores and restaurants at City Centre Ajman as part of its AED 643 million enhancement project.
City Centre Ajman — the emirate's largest shopping and entertainment destination – is undergoing a major transformation that will upgrade the mall from a community-centred venue to an all-round shopping, dining and leisure destination with far-reaching appeal by 2019. As part of its efforts to address the changing demands of its loyal customers, City Centre Ajman has brought new stores and restaurants, such as Gazebo, Jacky's and Pure Gold to the mall. Several outlets that closed temporarily during the mall's redevelopment are up and running once more, including Sun & Sand Sports and Aldo.
The mall has also enhanced accessibility for customers by increasing the parking capacity to 2,100 bays and added a new entrance along with 100 additional parking bays near its anchor stores – Carrefour and Centrepoint.
"City Centre Ajman's new entrance offers easy access to Carrefour and Centrepoint, reducing the walk for our regular customers who shop for wardrobe staples and groceries at our mall," said Mohammed Al Rais, Senior Mall Manager, Northern Emirates malls.
"We have also added the popular Indian restaurant Gazebo to our F&B offerings to satisfy our visitors diverse tastes and technophiles will be delighted too as they now have more options with the opening of Jacky's Electronics."
Fashion brands making their Ajman debut include Parfois, Garage and beauty store Kiko.
For the first time, popular Indian restaurant, Gazebo will be available at the mall, while casual favourites Döner & Gyros, and Jollibee will increase the fast food mix.
Customers favourites, Sun & Sand Sports, Aldo, children's clothing specialists Carter's, Mothercare and Okaïdi, modest fashion boutique Anotah, beauty store Areej, jewellers Pure Gold and Damas and Du, the telecommunications company, has also reopened.
Shops set to open later this summer include Modern Pharmacy, candy store Jelly Belly, beauty brand The Body Shop, and fashion retailer Giordano, which stocks smart and relaxed casual clothing and accessories for men, women and children.
City Centre Ajman is now home to more than 60 international and local brands including the emirate's largest Carrefour hypermarket, a nine-screen VOX Cinemas and a Magic Planet amusement centre, as well as 18 food and beverage outlets.
For more information, visit: www.citycentreajman.com and www.facebook.com/CityCentreAjman
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Banks / Financial Services
Books / Cards / Stationary / Toys
Baby Changing Rooms Facilities
Currency Exchange and ATMS
Prayer Rooms
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Taxi Drop-Off and Pick-up
© 2020 City Centre Ajman. All rights reserved. Majid Al Futtaim Properties.


As much as I love writing about my adventures, I get up to so many it's incredibly hard to find the time to write about them all. I've just come back from Reading Festival (post to come) and I've had this post half done for almost a week, a little slow at this. (Also very bad at replying to comments as I'm unsure of how to do that on my phone?!?) I thought making a post mainly of pictures from adventures weekly would make so much more sense. It's not really a typical week of my life however it shows how upbeat and spontaneous it can sometimes be.
So here we go! My attempt at the much loved weekly round up. Monday-Sunday, 11th-17th August.
Although insomnia has kicked my poorly but this last week I still managed to find the health to get out of the house by 4. Quite an achievement you may say, whoops.
My sisters, mother and boyfriend and I took a trip to IKEA. My boyfriend and I, in a seperate car however explored Southampton's outside shops a bit slower than them (I was a bit slow) and finally met in IKEA.
IKEA is definelty one of my many loves.
Like don't we all wish our bed was like that? Imagine how great spoonie life would be.
Asymetrical white/cobalt skirt: Lavish Alice.
As much as I loved exploring, my feet were killing me so we decided to feast on their much loved meatballs. A regular portion seemed like an XL and immediately put me in pain. How stupid of me to enjoy one of my favourite foods with my favourite people tut tut.
I enjoyed myself so much and found such pretty storage to put in my now spotless room. I must also note that this was the first time I had been out with my family without some walking aid on standby, an achievement!
Look how beautiful the sunset was whilst eating in the restaurant over looking the docks.
After this, my boyfriend and I ventured to the cinema to see Inbetweener's 2 equipt with peach schanpps and too many snacks. We had to see a later showing due to my IBS flaring but it was cool because they had an amazing free Planes 2 game. I make one hell of a skilled plane, in case you want to know.
Inbetweener's 2 is brilliant, however I felt that it seemed that not a lot of thought was put into the storyline. There are a lot parts where you're like ".. wait what I thought so and so were still together" and "what happened to this person?".
I also didn't find it as funny as their series or past film. There's also a part where they create a negative connotation of IBS for the general public, and it's actually quite embarrassing. They conceive IBS to be something far from what it actually is and use it for comedic affect, which is all very well, but I personally did not enjoy that. Has anyone else seen it and noticed that part? I'd seriously loved to know.
I then fell asleep on the way home at about 11:30pm and ended up staying round Harry's.
I am SO happy with what I achieved.
Although I'm paying for it still, as I write this it's a week later, it was worth it. I love testing my limits with this illness to see what I can achieve despite what everyone/my body says. Cross-trainers are fabulous for those with chronic pain.
I then spent all afternoon and evening playing Minecraft at Harry's whilst he was at work. My latest addiction. I am Queen of my kingdom, all bow down to me.
I then somehow managed to pull myself together, look pretty and walk into town to meet my beautiful friend, Steph, for drinks. A very classy bar which reminds me of those in New York. Peach Bellinis are a dream!
A very eventful day for a spoonie.
And a dentist appointment - with possible wisdom teeth removal, ouchyyy!!!!!
Graze's Salsi Fresca and Nature's Immunity Nuts with a tea with almond milk. Almond milk is a god send, no sugar is needed as it makes it so sweet!
Followed by a hospital appointment, I've been put on steroids and antibiotics; regardless I still drank a lot on results day. Don't tell the doc.
A nice visit from some family friends and a late birthday present cheered me right up.
Finally the dreaded results day came around.
A2 students were meant to collect theirs at 8am, however I didn't turn up until 12pm. I refuse to put myself in pain for some measly results!
I did not receive what I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong, I past very well and received incredible grades for someone who missed 3/4 of 2 years of school. 90% of my time doing alevels was me at home, independent learning and teaching myself. I taught myself everything, like I did for IGCSE's. I wasn't in school enough for teachers actually teach me. The thing with alevels is that you can't teach yourself, it's designed so that you have to be in certain lessons. Because of this, something I taught myself at GCSE and got an A* in, then taught myself just as much at Alevel and only got a D. In all fairness that's Ethics and Philosophy, which is a mind killer and impossible in everyway. I got a C in another subject, so I'm cool with that.
I think what depressed me was that I didn't reach my full potential because of these illnesses. I know I'm intelligent enough to do very well and it's frustrating to be put down and limited like this. I had NO consideration for my exams, apart from rest breaks, and that needs to change.
I had a massage to take my mind off my mental breakdown and have a chat with my massuse aka my therapist.
She has a beautiful working area.
To put into perspective how difficult ALevels were this year.
I walked and waited a lot, I was surrounded by too many people. My anxiety was at an all time high and I probably seemed so rude and dismissive but I'm proud that I fought through it. I didn't let Harry leave my side once however.
I was so terrified of the social situation, the people from school and those who were merely strangers.
It'll take a long time until I can manage groups of people again, but for now I shall stick to no more than a couple. That's bareable.
We visited my family in Reading on Friday and it was so much fun I love seeing my family. So laid back I feel comfortable without make up!
Harry and I spent all day watching American Horror Story. Something I definitely recommend watching (with someone). Do not fret, once you get past the 5 episode you'll no longer find it scary.
We watched it in the car on the way to Reading, once in Reading, at the café in Reading... You get the picture. Addicted. We watched all 12 episodes of S1 in about 4 days.
Beautiful garden centre adventures for wellies!
Mumma's breakfast in bed 10/10.
I highly recommend these teacakes.
I found this quote helpful on Saturday as I was feeling particularly down on my rest day.
My little sister's 10th birthday! Happy Birthday my princess.
Unfortunately I was too poorly to spend the morning with her however I loved my family's afternoon adventures!
DO NOT RECCOMEND TO THOSE WITH IBS BUT OH MY IT WAS INCREDIBLE.
Arcade fun with the family made me so content. Pro at the dance game!
Aren't I just so lucky to call this home like wow.
Sometimes I love this town. Fun on the rides!
Walks through the park. It was to windy to go on the ballon!
But it was still so pretty.
I take a lot of selfies don't I? (well technically my little sister was in this one but I don't like putting them online so) If I feel good, I'm going to take a selfie to remind myself of better times, it's a thing.
I really hope you enjoyed the inside into a week of my summer, hopefully I'll do another one soon. They're so fun and I take pictures constantly anyway! Might as well record them.
Apologies for no Pick Me Up this week - was preparing for Reading. I am also off to Heathrow on my own tomorrow to go to Scotland, help! My poor body is on overload.
More posts coming soon I promise, as I keep saying and I guess this post shows, I am quite a busy bee!
Thank you for reading sunshines!


Certified Drivers License Prep (Android) includes more than 200 multiple-choice questions, flashcards, and question listing. With this application you can text message a quiz question to a colleague and post score for global ranking. Certified Drivers License Prep (Android) provide you to prepare for your certified drivers license exam.


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Damas CEO wants to use 'real women, not influencers', as brand ambassadors
Categories Retail News, Survey & Insights, Top News
The world of social media influencing is 'distorting reality' and putting pressure on women to look and act a certain way, says Asil Attar
The CEO of leading Middle East retailer Damas Jewellery wants to use 'real women' as opposed to social media influencers as brand ambassadors.
Speaking to Arabian Business, Asil Attar said it's her responsibility as a female CEO to feature real women in marketing campaigns.
"I've been in the industry for 25 years and have experienced a number of journeys as a female in different corporate roles… One of the biggest responsibilities I have as an ambassador for women's empowerment is to sit at the helm of this company and make sure we talk about real stories and real women and real moments.
So as much as I'm incredibly respectful of influencers and celebrities – and of course, they all have a moment and place to play in different campaigns and brands and businesses – for me, it's about speaking to real women because at the end of the day, that is my customer. The ambassadors we'll be looking at are around real women with real experience that are empowered, have a story to tell and that you can resonate and relate to," she said.
Attar, who is Damas' first female CEO, said the world of social media influencing is 'distorting reality' and putting pressure on the way women must look and act.
"I have huge respect for all that [social media influencers] have gained and actually the ability and platforms that now enable these women to come out and influence those around them. But unfortunately with any kind of media, it does sort of distort the reality, so they become mixed in this imagination.
Then there's the tremendous pressure to look and feel and act a certain way and then you start to promote different brands and it becomes more of an industry rather than a reality. And I'm very mindful of that; that's not a message we want to sell. We want to sell real stories to real women who will then resonate with the real; who we are," said Attar.
The chief executive has previously worked with The Giorgio Armani Group, and as the CEO of Majid Al Futtaim and Al Yasra Fashion. In her role, Attar will overlook the company's portfolio of over 40 international luxury brands and in-house brands, with 230 stores spread across the GCC.
Damas Jewellery is one of the oldest brands in the UAE, having been founded in 1907 as a goldsmith.
It opened its first store in the Dubai Gold Souk in 1959 and continues to operate it to this day.
Arabian Business. June 16, 2019.
Tag:CEO, Damas, empowerment, GCC Retail, Gold, Gold Business, Gold Shops, Gold Souks, influencers, jewellery, real, reality, UAE, women
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Youth concepts key to success of Oman malls, says JLL


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NHL Award Watch: New leader for the Hart
3yGreg Wyshynski
NHL rookie tiers: Calder Trophy favorites, impact first-years, more
2dChris Peters
O'Reilly: Blues 'embarrassed ourselves' in rout
9hGreg Wyshynski
12hEmily Kaplan
Blues' Blais suspended 2 games for check to head
Blackhawks put Toews, Dach on long-term IR
Flyers' Patrick scores in 1st game since April '19
2dEmily Kaplan
NHL, Canes deny ex-Trump staffer's firing claim
3dGreg Wyshynski
NHL Power Rankings: Final preseason edition for 2021
Wyshynski: Why the Maple Leafs are my Stanley Cup pick
Lapsed fan's guide to the 2021 NHL season: Everything you missed this offseason
Ranking all 31 NHL prospect pipelines: Kings leapfrog Rangers for No. 1 spot
16dChris Peters
Colorado Avalanche St. Louis Blues
Ottawa Senators Toronto Maple Leafs
Tampa Bay Lightning Chicago Blackhawks
Konecny records hat trick, leads Flyers past Penguins 5-2
Philadelphia Flyers Pittsburgh Penguins
Buffalo Sabres Washington Capitals
Don recaps the locals opening games
Taylor Hall can't stop scoring, and he's willing the Devils to the playoffs this season. Adam Hunger/Getty Images
Greg WyshynskiESPN
Greg Wyshynski is ESPN's senior NHL writer.
As the fortunes of NHL players and teams continue to fluctuate, there have been some changes in the awards watch since last month's edition -- especially in the intensely competitive MVP race. But the more things change, the more they stay the same for some of the other awards ... unless injuries become a factor.
ESPN On Ice
Missed an episode of the ESPN On Ice podcast with Greg Wyshynski and Emily Kaplan? Find all the episodes from the show's catalogue here. Listen »
As we hit March, here are my picks for the NHL awards as a Professional Hockey Writers Association voter and through a dozen conversations with those around the game. Please keep in mind that all advanced stats are via Corsica. Also keep in mind the PHWA votes for the Hart, Norris, Calder, Selke and Lady Byng; broadcasters vote for the Jack Adams, and general managers handle the Vezina.
Put your agreements, disagreements and alternative candidates in the comments.
Art Ross Trophy (points leader)
Current leader: Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (85 points in 64 games)
Watch out for: Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers (79 points in 65 games)
Dark horse: Claude Giroux, Philadelphia Flyers (78 points in 66 games)
Rocket Richard Trophy (leading goal scorer)
Current leader: Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals (40 goals in 65 games)
Watch out for: Patrik Laine, Winnipeg Jets (35 goals in 65 games)
Dark horse: Tyler Seguin, Dallas Stars (34 goals in 60 games)
And now, the nominees are ...
Hart Trophy (most valuable player)
If the Avalanche get back into a playoff spot, Nathan MacKinnon's Hart Trophy case will be much stronger. Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images
Leader: Taylor Hall, New Jersey Devils
Finalists: Anze Kopitar, Los Angeles Kings; Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
We begin with the usual caveat that the Hart Trophy should only be given to a player who elevates his team to the playoffs. Full stop. If you choose to define "value" in another manner, by all means do so. You're wrong, but do so.
For example, there's been a surge in support for McDavid, who has 79 points to lead the Oilers' next-best scorer, Leon Draisaitl, by 21. McDavid has been chatted up for the Hart Trophy by supporters who fancy the MVP as a de facto player of the year award, willfully ignoring the concept of his value versus what should be valuable to the Oilers at this point. In other words, McDavid winning games for them just further hurts their lottery chances.
What NHL award should exist but doesn't?
Weekly Reader: Henrik Lundqvist and the 'R word'
Western Conference playoff reset: Cup contenders, wild-card watch, more
But this "in it to win it" delineation is vital here for another reason: Nathan MacKinnon.
As this edition of Awards Watch publishes, MacKinnon's Colorado Avalanche sit one point out of the final wild card spot in the Western Conference. He's having a remarkable season: 31 goals and 46 assists in 57 games. He's 13 points better than his linemate Mikko Rantanen, who has played seven more games. There is a passionate, aggressive campaign from Avalanche fans to let the world know that MacKinnon should win the Hart. If the Avalanche make the playoffs, he's going to have a very strong case -- MacKinnon was second in the PHWA midseason awards vote. If they miss by a slim margin, he's going to appear on many ballot as well.
But if they're not in the playoffs, and as of Monday they're not, then MacKinnon can't make my top three. There's no point in celebrating the value of a player on a valueless team.
However, if the Kings and Avalanche flip-flop for the last wild card, then MacKinnon's in my top three. But until then, that's Kopitar's spot.
Kopitar has 27 goals and 44 assists on the season, skating to a plus-17. But the most important number for Kopitar is 26. That's the number of points between himself and the Kings' second-leading scorer, Dustin Brown. Kopitar is also six goals better than Tyler Toffoli for the team lead. He has been their best player in a season that saw Jeff Carter miss the majority of the campaign with an injury, and has dragged them into a playoff seed.
Kucherov has been the best offensive player in the NHL since the start, and the Lightning have a shot at the Presidents' Trophy. He's the odds-on favorite to win the Hart, as the PHWA put him atop the midseason ballot and NHL.com recently named him its top pick for MVP with votes from 13 of 19 writers. The only thing that has given me pause regarding his MVP candidacy is goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, with a .933 even-strength save percentage on the season in 53 starts. There have been stretches when he has been every bit as valuable, even if that was overlooked thanks to the Lightning's offensive fireworks.
Which brings us to Hall.
The Devils are in the first wild-card spot because of Taylor Hall. He has 30 goals and 42 assists in 61 games. That's a 31-point (!!!) lead on the Devils' second-leading scorer Nico Hischier. Hall is in the midst of two streaks: 18 straight games with at least a point and 25 straight (nonconsecutive) appearances with a point, becoming just the eighth player in 30 years to achieve that feat. Since Feb. 18, Hall has been in on over 68 percent of the Devils' goals.
He has accomplished all of this without the linemates and supporting casts of the other candidates. He has accomplished this with Cory Schneider limited to 37 games this season due to injury.
If we were casting a vote today, the Hart Trophy would have to go to Taylor Hall. Which, again, we're sure will play well back in Edmonton. Dom Luszczyszyn at The Athletic has more on why Hall has to be the choice.
Shoutout to the rest of a crowded and talented Hart Trophy field: Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, Boston Bruins; Sergei Bobrovsky, Columbus Blue Jackets; Giroux; Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh Penguins; Ovechkin; John Tavares, New York Islanders; and Blake Wheeler, Winnipeg Jets.
Norris Trophy (top defenseman)
Although John Klingberg has improved his all-around game this season, he'll likely have to lead all NHL defensemen in scoring in order to win the Norris. Glenn James/NHLI via Getty Images
Favorite: Victor Hedman, Tampa Bay Lightning
Finalists: Drew Doughty, Los Angeles Kings, John Klingberg, Dallas Stars
As basic as this sounds, here's the reality for Klingberg: He needs to lead all defensemen in scoring to win the Norris.
That's not me speaking as someone who is in awe of the season he's having and the positive changes he made to his game under Ken Hitchcock and generally believing he's worthy of the award. This is me thinking as a PHWA voter, knowing that to overcome the reputation-based support for the other two favorites, this is essential. He currently has a two-point lead over John Carlson of the Capitals.
Greg Wyshynski and Emily Kaplan offer up a full breakdown of the madness that was the trade deadline, including the Rangers' bonanza of deals, the shocker for Paul Stastny, a nice addition for the Golden Knights, a new home for Evander Kane and all the players who didn't move. Plus, we hear from you on the ESPN On Ice "rant line." Listen »
That said: Klingberg still has the numbers. He has a 53.25 Corsi for percentage and a plus-2.62 percent Corsi relative to his teammates, along with that monster 12.48 expected goals plus/minus. (Expected goals being a formula that estimates a player's contribution to his team's expected goals per 60 minutes.) His 55 points in 65 games leads the league, and he's six points better (36) than everyone else at even strength.
Doughty just continues to have an all-around impressive season, from his possession numbers (plus-5.11 percent Corsi relative to that of his teammates) to his expected goals (plus-3.22) to his 44 points in 66 games to his 26:42 average time on ice. Doughty could win this, and would have earned it.
Hedman has just gotten better as the season has rolled on. His expected goals plus/minus has improved to 5.5, up from last month. His 51.85 Corsi for percentage remains strong. He's actually now starting fewer shifts in the offensive zone (52.4) than Klingberg (53.4), which is a change from last month. Hedman has 49 points in 61 games -- his points-per-game average of 0.80 is right there with Klingberg (0.85).
Hedman didn't make the cut last month, as P.K. Subban was our other finalist. In any other season, Subban probably waltzes away with it with numbers this good: 50 points in 62 games overall and 29 of them at even strength, despite just 43.2 percent of his starts beginning in the offensive zone. He's right there.
But Hedman led on the PHWA midseason ballot and takes the favorite spot here. Others have better cases, but there has always been an inevitability to Hedman's candidacy that's impossible to ignore now. What has happened, however, is that his play is catching up with his predetermined Norris nod from some in the media.
Selke Trophy (best defensive forward)
Patrice Bergeron appears to have the Selke locked up -- provided his current injury doesn't keep him out for too many games. Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire
Leader: Patrice Bergeron, Boston Bruins
Finalists: Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers; Sean Couturier, Philadelphia Flyers
Speaking of inevitability ...
The only thing keeping Bergeron from the Selke is going to be sample size. He has played 55 games, but he's out indefinitely with a foot injury. If he misses a large chunk of time before the playoffs, can he still pull this out and win a record-setting fifth Selke? Because he's by far the favorite. The Bruins have a .944 save percentage when Bergeron is on the ice, and he's killing it in the faceoff circle again (56.9) and has a 57.71 Corsi for percentage. We have an unending desire to see him continue to win these, and Bergeron is making that easy.
If Bergeron is shelved for too long, it could be Couturier who slides into the lead. He has 52 even-strength points, with 43.3 percent of his starts in the offensive zone, and is 53.7 percent on faceoffs; and the Flyers have a .914 save percentage with him on the ice.
One candidate to watch is Barkov. The Panthers forward has a plus-4.55 percent Corsi relative to his teammates, he wins 54.3 percent of his faceoffs and leads the NHL with five short-handed points -- not to mention 46 even-strength points on the season, with just 41.4 percent of his starts originating in the offensive zone. One point of concern: Panthers goalies have an .890 save percentage with him on the ice, which would be the worst season for Barkov in that metric for his career. But if the Panthers rally for a playoff spot -- during the voting period -- Barkov could get some attention.
Just missing the cut is Kopitar, whose Selke candidacy is a part of his overall MVP case, with 53.3 percent on faceoff wins, a plus-2.8 percent Corsi relative to his teammates and 71 points despite starting only 47 percent of the time in the offensive zone. The Kings have a .910 save percentage with him on the ice.
Vezina Trophy (top goaltender)
Can anyone catch Andrei Vasilevskiy in the race for the Vezina Trophy? Scott Audette/NHLI via Getty Images
Leader: Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning
Finalists: John Gibson, Anaheim Ducks; Pekka Rinne, Nashville Predators
Vasilevskiy is still the gold standard this season, with a .933 even-strength save percentage and a .981 save percentage on low-danger chances at even strength in 54 appearances. His goals saved above average (GSAA), essentially how many goals he has saved compared to a league-average goalie facing the same number of shot attempts, is the best in the NHL, at 21.90. One look at the save percentages of the other netminders on the Lightning tells you how good Vasy has been.
Rinne is right there in the conversation for the Vezina. The Predators netminder has as a .939 even-strength save percentage in 48 appearances, with a 21.02 GSAA. He has a better quality starts rating (.667) than Vasilevskiy -- a stat cooked up by our own Rob Vollman that basically tracks if a goalie gave his team a chance to win. But Rinne's low-danger save percentage of .971 ranks 30th among goalies with at least 1,000 minutes.
Gibson has a heck of a case, and should get some notice with the Ducks in a playoff spot. He has a .926 even-strength save percentage in 48 starts, including a .989 save percentage on low-danger chances. His GSAA is 18.85, which is third in the league, and he matches Rinne in quality starts (.667). The question is: How will Vezina voters interpret the fact that Ryan Miller has similar numbers, albeit in a much smaller sample size?
Toronto's Frederik Andersen has faced more shots (1,871) than any other goalie through 55 games, and is third in high-danger shots faced (282). His GSAA is 14.15. But his low-danger save percentage is .970. Connor Hellebuyck of Winnipeg was in the top three last month, and has been an absolute savior for the Jets this season. But Gibson's just a shade ahead of him. Bobrovsky (.920) belongs in the conversation, but one could argue he has a better Hart case.
Carter Hutton of the Blues, Marc-Andre Fleury of the Golden Knights and Roberto Luongo of the Panthers have all been great, but might not have the work rate of the other candidates.
Lady Byng (most gentlemanly player)
This is the part where we mention that the voting on this award should be transferred over to the NHL Officials Association, as they have a much better understanding than do the writers on who deserves a sportsmanship award. But we should also report that Johnny Gaudreau, the leader for the award in the PHWA voting at the midterm, now has 24 penalty minutes, the most in his career in a single season.
This could open the door for "Wild Bill" William Karlsson of the Golden Knights, who has 35 goals and just eight penalty minutes. He also has irony on his side, because who isn't voting for the most gentlemanly player from a team in Las Vegas?
Jack Adams Award (best coach)
Leader: Gerard Gallant, Vegas Golden Knights
Finalists: Ken Hitchcock, Dallas Stars; John Hynes, New Jersey Devils
Gallant still has this in the bag because, again, he's coaching an expansion team to a division championship. Hynes deserves a ton of credit for what the Devils have done this season through some adversity. Hitchcock joins our top three because the Stars are in a wild-card spot and because the Jack Adams voters usually like easily digestible tangible results: like, for example, taking a team that averaged 3.17 goals against per game last season and dropping that figure down to 2.60, which is what Hitch has done.
Calder Trophy (top rookie)
Mathew Barzal leads rookies in scoring -- and is 15th overall -- with 67 points in 66 games this season. Christopher Pasatieri/NHLI via Getty Images
Leader: Mathew Barzal, New York Islanders
Finalists: Brock Boeser, Vancouver Canucks; Charlie McAvoy, Boston Bruins
I've been fighting a battle with bitter Islanders fans for the past month because I had Boeser first for the Calder with Barzal basically even with him. This was treated like I had just compared Boeser to Mike Bossy and Barzal to Brett Lindros.
Boeser is still having an incredible season, and has a shot at 40 goals, something only four rookies have accomplished in the last 25 years. I stand by everything I've written about him -- I still think the offensive pace he maintained while cycling through different linemates is in some ways more impressive than having Jordan Eberle as your constant. But some of his underlying metrics don't blow you away, and he's starting a whopping 62.6 of his shifts in the attacking zone.
In the past month, it has gone from a fairly even race with Boeser to a smidge ahead for Barzal leading the Calder race -- and creating some daylight. He has 67 points in 66 games. In the past 25 years, there have been only nine other rookies who have averaged a point per game, and we're talking about some legendary company: Selanne, Ovechkin, Crosby, Eric Lindros, Malkin, McDavid, Forsberg. Oh, and also Alexei Zhamnov and Joe Juneau.
Barzal has a plus-6.54 percent Corsi relative to his Islanders teammates, playing against tough competition. He has put up stellar offensive numbers while starting 52 percent of his shifts in the attacking zone.
But he has also hit more high spots than Boeser, becoming a human highlight reel with his passing ability and speed. Posting three five-point games as a rookie is a heck of a calling card, too.
McAvoy is a lock for the third spot on the Calder ballot as long as this recent injury issue doesn't dramatically affect his sample size. Even then, it's hard to imagine anyone having a stronger case than the Bruins defenseman, who is averaging 22:06 per game to lead all rookies.
But as we head into the stretch run, it's clearly Barzal with the Calder lead.


It has been suggested that the Crafts Alive Village be renamed in tribute to recently departed Fifth District Representative Hon. Delores Christopher who was instrumental in the establishment of that Road Town commercial center.
The Crafts Alive Village is a colorful shopping centre that is located in Central Road Town. The area features vendors selling items that range from leather products, local art, handmade dolls, embroidery and crochet items, and locally made souvenirs.
Now that she is no more, fellow Back Bencher Hon. Archibald Christian is calling for Crafts Alive to be named after the late Hon. Delores Christopher. He made the call during the funeral service of the Fifth District Representative held on 3 November at the Sea Cow's Bay Methodist Church.
"Premier, colleagues and anyone else who has something to do with the naming of places institutions, streets, villages, schools, whatever. I am putting on the record this afternoon that the Crafts Alive Village be renamed the 'Delores Lettsome Christopher Crafts Alive Village' in honor of the service and dedication that she has made to the business community in the Virgin Islands," Hon. Christian said.


Anthony was placed into care when he was 14 years old after enduring physical and mental abuse at home. He's had many ups and downs during his time in foster homes and once harbored suicidal thoughts, which landed him in Brunswick Hall for eight months and two other facilities thereafter. During his time at these facilities, Anthony developed his special skill of writing—some of which have been very successful and featured in the Huffington Post, NY Times and REPRESENT magazine. Eventually, Anthony found stable ground when he moved into a kinship foster home with his aunt and cousins.
Anthony soon discovered the Little Flower LGBTQ Teen Group and has been a core member and leader in the group since joining. Staff witnessed the impact Anthony made on the lives other young adults in group. He encouraged his fellow teens to stay and complete high school, which he was able to do himself after thoughts of transferring or dropping out, because of the support he received from the group. Anthony helped members overcome their own challenges by sharing his experiences in dealing with bullying. He has been helpful in creating an environment for his peers to learn of opportunities, resources and information to help transition out of care as well as learn how to be their own self-advocate. Anthony recently aged out of care and is excelling in college all the while still finding time to join the group during meetings and offer help.
Because of the dedication and care Anthony showed his peers, he was awarded the Administration for Children's Services LGBTQ & Ally Award in 2014. Anthony was both surprised and excited when he heard the news of being selected as the recipient of the LGBTQ & Ally Award. He has demonstrated his commitment to safety and well-being of his peers as well as made a tangible impact by supporting his fellow foster youth!
We look forward to hearing more about Anthony's future successes!