The 4th year of the biggest gathering of Heathens in the UK, where friendships can be renewed, new ones made, and this year..... perhaps a touch of heathly competition too.
Grants entry for 1 Adult (14+) on Friday 16th August 2019, between 12:00 and 00:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants entry for 1 Adult (14+) on Saturday 17th August 2019, between 09:00 and 00:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants entry for 1 Adult (14+) on Sunday 18th August 2019, between 09:00 and 19:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants entry for 1 Child (2-13) on Friday 16th August 2019, between 12:00 and 00:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants entry for 1 Child (2-13) on Saturday 17th August 2019, between 09:00 and 00:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants entry for 1 Child (2-13) on Sunday 18th August 2019, between 09:00 and 19:00. NO CAMPING included in this ticket.
Grants Entry for 1 Adult (14+) from Saturday at 09:00 - Sunday at 19:00. CAMPING overnight included in this ticket.
Grants Entry for 1 Child (2-13) from Saturday at 09:00 - Sunday at 19:00. CAMPING overnight included in this ticket.


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Linnea Tanner
linneatanner.allauthor.com
Historical Romance Historical Fiction Fantasy
Born: 14 February
Member Since: Dec 2017
Profile Views: 13,719
Visit author: Website, Join Author's Newsletter, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, Amazon, Pinterest, Linkedin,
Award-winning author Linnea Tanner weaves Celtic tales of love, magic, adventure, betrayal and intrigue into historical fiction set in Ancient Rome and Britannia. Since childhood, she has passionately read about ancient civilizations and mythology which held women in higher esteem. Of particular interest are the enigmatic Celts who were reputed as fierce warriors and mystical Druids.
Depending on the time of day and season of the year, you will find her exploring and researching ancient and medieval history, mythology and archaeology to support her writing. As the author of the APOLLO'S RAVEN series, she has extensively researched and traveled to sites described within each book.
A native of Colorado, Linnea attended the University of Colorado and earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in chemistry. She lives in Windsor with her husband and has two children and six grandchildren.
Linnea Tanner Books
Amulet's Rapture (Curse of Clansmen and Kings Book 3)by Linnea TannerPublish: Oct 29, 2019Series: Curse of Clansmen and KingsHistorical Fiction Fantasy
$3.99kindleeBook, Paperback, Audio, Signed Paperback,
Dagger's Destiny (Curse of Clansmen and Kings Book 2)by Linnea TannerPublish: Sep 26, 2018Series: Curse of Clansmen and KingsHistorical Fiction Fantasy
Apollo's Raven (Curse of Clansmen and Kings Book 1)by Linnea TannerPublish: Aug 08, 2018Series: Curse of Clansmen and KingsHistorical Fiction Fantasy
Linnea Tanner interview On 03, Apr 2018
"Author Linnea Tanner's mother always gave her an assortment of books to read and emphasized the importance of education, inspiring her by myths and legends of powerful female warriors, sorceresses, and goddesses. Her fascination with Celtic lore began when she traveled to the United Kingdom on business trips. Linnea always wanted to be a writer, and originally took chemistry because she wanted to go into the medical field. Her degree in chemistry gave her the background and discipline for her writing. One of her favorite mythological characters is Welsh goddess, Rhiannon. Characters, to her, are a mixture of her own creation and traits she observes in herself and other people."
What was your experience with books and writing as a child? Were either of your parents big readers?
My mother, who was widowed when I was 1 year old, gave me an assortment of books to read and emphasized the important of education. As a child, I was inspired by myths and legends of powerful female warriors, sorceresses, and goddesses. In third grade, when most of my friends were reading Nancy Drew mysteries, I was devouring books on Greek and Nordic mythology. By eighth grade, I was reading adult historical fiction such as The Egyptian and The Hunchback of Notre Dame with bigger than life characters from the past. Some of my characters in Apollo's Raven were seeded during my childhood.
When did your fascination for Celtic lore first start? What is one your favourite myths or legends that you've read about?
My fascination with Celtic lore began when I travelled to the United Kingdom on my business trips. I was struck by the statue of Boudica and her daughters in a chariot along the Thames River. I discovered that in her Celtic culture, she had substantial power and influence as a woman to unite her people and to rebel against the Romans. The first century Roman historian, Tactitus, writes the Britons were used to women commanders in war. He offered detailed reports of Boudica's exploits and those of another warrior queen. Cartimandua.
Welsh and Irish tales of mythological heroines reflect the Celtic acceptance of women's power and influence. One of my favorite Irish tales is about Macha. She mysteriously appears and acts like a wife to King Cruinniuc , whose first wife had died. Macha promises to stay and bless him on the condition he does not speak of her to anyone. However, Cruinniuc breaks his promise at a festival sponsored by the king of Ulster and boasts his wife can beat the king's horses. The king of Ulster orders Cruinniuc to be held on pain of death unless he makes good on his claim. Although Macha is heavily pregnant, she is brought to the gathering and the king forces her to race his horses. She wins the race, but then cries out in pain as she gives birth to twins at the finish line. She curses the men of Ulster to be overcome with weakness—as weak "as a woman in childbirth"—at the time of their greatest need.
How does one go from being a chemistry major to becoming a fantasy writer? In what ways do you think your degree has helped you write your books?
Since my childhood, I've always wanted to be a writer, although I've had varied interests. My interest in chemistry was sparked because I wanted to go into the medical field. During my career in the pharmaceuticals industry, I managed activities for gaining approval of new drugs in rare diseases. The discipline of managing large projects helped me as a writer to finish my novels and set deadlines. My degree in chemistry gave me the background to research topics in support of my writing historical fantasy.
Who is your favourite underrated mythological character?
One of my favorite mythological characters is Rhiannon. She is a Welsh goddess from the Otherworld who chooses to marry the mortal king Pwyll. After she finally gives birth to his son after three years of being barren, her newborn disappears under the care of maids. Terrified they will be put to death for their carelessness, the maids accuse Rhiannon of killing and eating her baby. However, Pwyll does not cast Rhiannon aside but rather accepts her penance of telling her unfortunate story to travelers at the castle gate. She must also offer to carry them on her back as a beast of burden. After several years, Rhiannon is reunited with her son and the truth as to what happened to him is revealed. This story touches me because it is about sacrificial love and the loyalty demonstrated between the mortal king and the goddess who must leave the Otherworld to be with him.
What are some of the most memorable places you've travelled to for the APOLLO'S RAVEN series?
I've visited several sites in southeast England which have given me a taste of what 1st century Britannia was like. One of my favorite activities was to hike the white cliffs overlooking the English Channel from Deal to Dover. My first scene in Apollo's Raven reflects my awe of observing ships suddenly appearing out of the fog on the English Channel. History is frozen in time at Dover Castle with a Roman lighthouse, Saxon chapel, and medieval castle. There is also evidence there of a settlement that had been defended with earthworks during the Iron Age. I've also visited the spectacular Fishbourne Roman Palace and Roman baths at Bath, both dating from the 1st century. Another fascinating city I visited was Colchester where Boudica burned the temple dedicated to Claudius to the ground.
What makes your characters King Amren and Princess Catrin special? What do you love most about this father-daughter duo and the entire process of creating them?
When I first created the characters of King Amren and Princess Catrin, I envisioned them as having a special daughter-father bond; he guides her as an ancestral spirit through some of her travails. However, as I began writing the series, I realized Amren believed he had to display brutal strength as a king to maintain power. In Book 2: Empire's Anvil of the Apollo's Raven series, I explore the relationship between Amren and Catrin in more depth. After he accuses her of betraying him by sleeping with the Roman enemy under her charge, she must find a way to win back her father's trust and love.
Was the Mark Antony in this book, grandfather of Marcellus, modelled after the famous Roman politician? What are some other hints of Roman history that you planted in this book?
The main character of Marcellus was modeled on the legacy of Mark Antony and his ill-fated relationship with Cleopatra, but with a Celtic twist. Marcellus's father, Lucius Antonius, is based on an actual historical figure who was the son of Iullus Antonius and the grandson of Mark Antony. Lucius was banished to Gaul (modern day France) after his father, Iullus, was accused of treason for having an affair with Augustus's daughter, Julia, and thus forced to commit suicide. The tragic events of Mark Antony's legacy sparked the back story of Marcellus. As the son of Lucius Antonius, Marcellus lives under the shadow of his father's bitterness of being unfairly punished for the sins of his forefathers. The actual historical events are sprinkled into Apollo's Raven as back story and will be explored further in subsequent books in the series.
What do you love most about the 'forbidden love' trope? How do you keep this common theme from becoming repetitive or boring?
The trope of forbidden love is fascinating because it explores the driving emotion of passion between two people from different cultures that can overtake reasoning and duty to family and country. So that the trope of forbidden love does not become repetitive or boring, the Apollo's Raven series will explore other aspects of love: sacrificial love, unrequited love, and duty-bound love. Other underlying themes of corruption of power and revenge will also be weaved into the tale. New characters will be introduced who provide obstacles for Catrin and Marcellus to be together and drive them to their fated rise in power in each of their respective homelands.
If you were to live out the rest of your days in your book, what kind of character would you want to play? What sort of magical powers would you want to possess?
I'd like to be a Druid with the power to communicate telepathically with animals and ancestral spirits to guide me in everyday life and to foretell the future. The abilities to shape-shift and disappear in a magical fog would be beneficial to escape dangers.
In what sort of ways do characters in a book reflect their author's personal characteristics? Do you find yourself relating to Catrin often?
Characters in a book can reflect an author's characteristics or those of others. The character of Catrin has evolved since my childhood. I can relate to her challenges which are similar to those I've faced in my own life. In Apollo's Raven, I can relate to her falling deeply in love, to her conflicts with her parents, and to her confusion when coming of age
Do you see your characters as beings of your creation that were based on your own traits or as separate entities that are independent and lead you in writing the story more often than not?
Characters can be a mixture of my own creation and traits I observe in myself and other people I know. When a character lives in my head, I allow them take control of the story even though I have the basic plot in mind. One of the minor Celtic warriors, Ferrex, in Apollo's Raven takes on a much bigger role in subsequent books in the series. I fell in love with Ferrex after I wrote a scene with him in Book 3 and thus felt compelled to incorporate him in a love triangle with Catrin and Marcellus that is revealed in Book 2: Empire's Anvil.
What helps motivate you to write even on your laziest days? What are some websites and tools you use to find out more about folklore?
Sometimes I have to push through the moments when it is most difficult for me to write. It is often a sign that I'm not approaching a scene correctly. The twists often come to mind when my original plot does not work and I surprise myself with where the story leads me next.
Reading nonfiction historical accounts (Tacticus, Julius Caesar, Geoffrey of Monmouth), archaeological books (Graham Webster and Barry Cunliffe), and books on mythology spark new ideas for me. A couple of website about myths, legends, folklore, and tales from around the world that I follow are:
· Under the influence by zteve t evans: https://ztevetevans.wordpress.com/
· La Audacia de Aquiles by Aquileana: https://aquileana.wordpress.com
As an author helps their readers through their writing, how have your readers helped you and in what ways?
What helps me the most as an author is to receive constructive reviews from readers. They give me feedback on what resonates with them and what may not work as well. I've been asked some questions about a situation that has sparked new ideas for my next books. One reader's question that I answer in Empire's Anvil is what happened to Agrona's soul when Rhan possessed her body.
Ask Linnea Tanner a question

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Everyone wants to be healthier. For some, it's about building the strength and stamina needed to excel in a favorite sport. For others, it's the desire to kick bad habits and create positive change that will boost self-esteem and overall well-being. Others search for a way to manage symptoms of a chronic condition, or otherwise improve their quality of life. There are thousands of possible motivators for a healthy lifestyle, and your own health and fitness goals can relate to any or all of them!
That's why the health industry is booming with innovative solutions to help people reach their health goals and mitigate the negatives of daily life. The market is huge and has space for everything from nutritional supplements to healthy snacks to specialty light-filtering eyeglasses and beyond. With the advent of eCommerce, it's become even easier for all types of health-based businesses to reach the customers who are looking for exactly what each brand can provide.
To celebrate World Health Day, we invited eCommerce businesses in the health industry to tell us their favorite tips for success in this wide and competitive field. The responses we received are filled with great information for anyone interested in building an online health store, and in fact, are valuable for eCommerce businesses of all types.
"Waka Coffee is a premium instant coffee that is focused on selling its products exclusively direct to consumers. Being a digital native company, online presence is crucial for driving more traffic and conversions on our website. We started only with a great product, but with no brand awareness or large budget to promote it. Our strategy was clear — we had to find as many authority leaders to review or try our product and hopefully share it with their readers.
We sent free samples to reporters, bloggers, and influencers while also trying to maintain a relationship with these individuals or organizations. We received a tremendous amount of feedback, and free promotion from people that absolutely loved our new instant coffee. We are so proud to be featured in publications such as Business Insider, The Daily Beast, Clean Plates, and many more. All by simply sending samples and asking for their honest review. These articles now help us to promote our products and reach more customers. It helps us to build confidence with prospective customers that our instant coffee is truly a unique product that is not similar to anything else in the market."
"I'm a big fan of using various National Day calendars for inspiration for content creation; things like International Best Friends Day, or Girl Scout Day. What's fun about International Health Day and other similar health- and fitness-related days is it ties directly into our industry and is a lot more relevant (and less of a stretch) than promoting a day like National Sleeping in Public Day.
eCommerce professionals and Digital Marketers working in this space should definitely capitalize on this fun opportunity to reach out to their clients and customer base. Days like this essentially provide an excuse (for lack of a better word) to actually reach out and market: i.e. 'Hey Guys, it's International Health Day!' It also provides a specific message to create content around.
For us, taking advantage of and marketing on days like this includes email marketing which is probably the core part of our marketing strategy. A tip for those newer to email marketing is don't just blast one big email to your list; begin to segment your list and send multiple emails catered to each segment. As an example, rather than sending one email to my entire list about an International Health Day sale we're running, I would run a sale on protein powder, target customers who've bought protein powder in the past, and target their email subject line to protein powder. I'd send another separate email to customers who'd bought pre-workouts, run a pre-workout special, and target their email subject line to pre-workouts.
To accompany the emails I normally also like to do some push notifications. A lot of marketers are sleeping on push notifications. Typically, a simple push notification which only consists of two short lines of text and a photo can bring in anywhere from $50 to $400 in additional sales so it's well worth the effort. Because we have retail stores, we also make text message marketing a component of our marketing plan. Lastly, we do some social media marketing as well. Social Media is a fun place and a great place to promote special days or National Days because a lot of people are engaging around these specific days through the use of hashtags.
One last tip: for any brands or marketers not making use of a social media management tool, I'd highly recommend doing so. It allows you to plan out a content calendar further out and take advantage of these special days, and also allows you to schedule posts as opposed to having to hop in and actively be posting.
I've tried pretty much all of them; Social Pilot, Buffer, Hootsuite, Later, and about a half dozen others. Later thus far is my favorite. Not only is the user interface the best in my opinion, but they have a neat addon feature called Linkin.Bio. This feature allows you to automatically tie a link to every post that changes the bio link for every post. This is incredibly powerful because Instagram does not allow clickable links — the only link you have is in your bio. This feature allows you to constantly swap out the link in your bio, but also creates a landing page with each post's original link so people seeing posts and content after the fact can still be taken to the relevant link. This is especially relevant and useful when promoting products."
"We have six flavors of snack cakes that are super low in sugar (1 g each) and carbs (3-4 g each). We started selling these snack cakes online about two years ago and have steadily built our business, selling through our own website as well as Amazon and a few other online outlets. My background before starting this food company was in advertising — having worked for several different ad agencies over the course of 20 years — so I came into this process with some opinions about marketing.
A decision I was able to make very early on is that we wouldn't spend any time or money trying to convince people they should cut down on sugar and excess carbs. Rather, we'd let their doctor, or their friend group, or their newsfeed — or whatever — convince them of that, and we'd only spend marketing resources on people who'd already made that decision. Thanks to the digital age, we can find those people. And we can use digital resources to connect with people who self-identify as low-sugar, low-carb, or Keto. We can find these people because they are part of a certain Facebook group, or they follow a certain Instagram page, or they buy certain products on Amazon.
So we've confined our marketing to people who are really in a sweet spot as far as our products are concerned. They've given up sugar and carbs, and now they're sad they can't have any more baked goods. We're there to say: "Yes you can! You can have cake — Nush cake." I often think of the millions of dollars my colleagues and I wasted, on behalf of our clients, when we were doing nothing but buying mass media. We knew it was mostly wasted, because we knew most people we reached probably weren't interested in the product, but we didn't have a better way. Today, it's possible to speak not only to really specific groups of people, but people who are at a certain point in their lives that your product really fits their needs."
"I manage the eCommerce and digital marketing for TheraSpecs, which are precision-tinted glasses for people with light sensitivity (stemming from migraine, concussion, and other conditions). I have a few tips that are unique to health-related companies.
Showcase the research and support for your product or service.
Transparency about your pricing, return process, shipping and other business policies is also a key ingredient in building trust with your audience. Ultimately, you want to give patients confidence that your product or service has benefited others, that it can be an effective solution for their needs, and that they have recourse if it does not work for them."
"Understand the unique needs of your online visitors and test for optimization.
As with most businesses, you have to understand your customer, but marketing in a health-related industry adds a unique layer to this process. As an example, many of those who visit the TheraSpecs store have light sensitivity as a core symptom and can be triggered by flashing objects or imagery—which renders the usual ecommerce tricks or hacks ineffective, if not outright painful. As a result, we regularly split test various components of our website to gather verifiable data that we can then use to optimize the onsite experience for our customers."
"Social media is one of the greatest gifts available to marketers, yet so many small businesses fail to take advantage of it. Current market trends have led to many consumers shying away from faceless massive corporations and taking their business to relatable small enterprises. Consequently, it's essential for these companies to create a welcoming brand and share their story across social media. In practice, this simple marketing technique is one of the easiest and most effective ways for small businesses to attract consumers and promote their values.
Additionally, many companies are utilizing these channels and effective career pages as part of their marketing strategy to create successful branding campaigns. The goal of these efforts is to reaching current and prospective employees alike and create a culture of company pride. These employer branding campaigns communicate the employment experience by sharing employee testimonials and profiles from staff members across the globe. In addition to establishing themselves as an employer of choice, these efforts have also translated into additional sales, as more and more people are interested in taking their business to a conscientious and transparent company.
Responsible business and products are in and consumers want to feel good about their purchases. This means that companies need to convey that they are committed to a set of values and that their goods and services follow suit, and there is no better way than social media marketing."
"At Celebration Saunas, we sell far infrared saunas to improve overall health through sweating and detoxification. The best marketing tools we use for our online store are creating easy navigation and writing content to address every question our customers may have. My customers are able to answer every question with available links on every product page so they don't have to go far to find the information they are looking for.
Our content is designed to meet the buyer at any part of the buying process. We provide educational information about our products; how our products may address our customer's specific health concerns. We help customers evaluate their choices by narrowing down their search options using filters. As customers get closer to purchasing they will find information related to dimensions, electrical requirements and shipping practices. Once the purchase is made we follow up with emails of what to expect from their purchase and their delivery. Following up with the customer is an important step for large purchase items. It is important to reinforce the sale and maintain contact with the customer to reinforce their good decision.
It's very important to design your website to intuitively guide your prospective buyers through the sales process and answer each question the new information introduced will lead to. You need to make it easy to make a purchase from your online store. You don't want your buyers leaving your site because it's too difficult or has too many steps to purchase. For this reason, at Celebration Saunas, we minimize the buying process to 3 steps: 'add to cart', redirect to 'checkout', and 'Confirm Purchase'."
One theme that runs through each of these points is that every health product is sold as a solution to a problem. While this is true for other industries, it's much more obvious when it comes to health, simply because customers are always aware of how they're feeling. This means reaching out to the right customers, answering their needs, and providing them with the support they require to believe in your products are all crucial to success in the eCommerce health industry.
The above tips and strategies are all centered on these essentials, coming from experts who know their industry inside and out. Whether you want to sell nutritional supplements online, start a CBD oil business, or sell any type of health product at all, their words will serve you well. Even if your interests lie elsewhere, you can still put these marketing principles to good use.
So, what are you waiting for? It's time to make the world a healthier place!
Are you involved in the eCommerce health industry? We'd love to hear your favorite marketing tips as well.


There was a king named Mahabhishak who belonged to the Bharata Dynasty. He ruled according to truth and justice and was rewarded with heaven upon his death. Once, while he was seated in the court of Indra, the king of heaven, the Goddess Ganga (she is the goddess of the sacred river Ganges), happened to visit there. Due to a passing breeze, her dress got rearranged. All those present at the court averted their eyes out of respect for the Goddess. However, Mahabhishak, who was enamored by her beauty, kept staring at her. This angered Lord Brahma. He cursed Mahabhishak saying, "Mahabhishak, since you kept staring at Ganga when she was in a compromising position, I curse you to be reborn as a king in the Bharata dynasty. Ganga will be your wife there and will torment you by her actions and cause you much grief."
Meanwhile, the eight Vasus, who were celestial brothers who resided in heaven, happened to offend the sage Vasishta. The eldest of them was Dhyou, who incurred the most of the Rishi's wrath. The sage cursed them to be born as mortals and suffer. They pleaded with him to reduce his curse and at last, relenting, the sage said, "The seven of you who merely acted according to your elder brother's orders will not have to suffer your mortal fate for long. However, your elder brother Dhyou, who was the perpetrator of this mischief, will have to live for a long time as a mortal, and suffer for his sins. You must know that the river Ganga is fated to be the wife of Shantanu, who was Mahabhishak in his previous birth. All of you will be born as their sons."
According to Brahma's curse, Mahabhishak was reborn as the son of King Prathiba in the Bharata dynasty. One day, when Shantanu was relaxing on the banks of the river Ganga, he met a woman of unsurpassed beauty. He fell in love immediately and asked her to be his wife. The lady said, "O Prince. I consent to be your wife, but only upon this condition. You must never do something which I do not approve of. No matter what I do, you must not question my actions, regardless of how strange they may seem to you." So much was the Shantanu in love with this maiden, that he accepted her rather open-ended condition. He married her and brought her to his father's house as his wife. Some time after this King Prathiba passed away and Shantanu became the King.
In due course of time, a son was born to him. As we know, this was one of the Vasus, fulfilling Vasishta's curse. Shantanu was overjoyed. His joy quickly turned to grief, as his queen took the child to the river Ganga and drowned the baby. However, bound by his promise, and his passionate devotion to his wife, he dared not question his wife on her outrageous conduct. Seven more sons were born to him. The next six children suffered the fate of his first, being drowned in the river. When the eighth child was born to him, the queen once again went to perform her ghastly ritual. This time, Shantanu could not contain himself. He remonstrated with his wife and asked her to explain her conduct.
The queen revealed herself to be the Goddess Ganga. She said, "O King. You have broken your promise never to question my actions. I must leave you now. Know that you were cursed to be born as a mortal, because you stared at me in Indra's court. It was also foretold that I will be your wife and make your life miserable by doing actions that will cause you immense grief. The seven children that were born to us and drowned by me in the river, were the seven younger Vasus, who had requested me to kill them as soon as they were born, to release them from the curse of Vashista. The eighth son that you have prevented me from killing is the eldest of Vasu, named Dhyou. He has been cursed to lead a long life of sorrow by the sage Vasishta. I am going to take him away with me now. I will send him back to you once he has completed his education."
The King pleaded with his wife to forget his outburst and stay with him. However, this could not be done as it was time for the Goddess to go. She went away with her son. The king was filled with grief. Shantanu spent most of his time by the river Ganga, hoping to catch a glimpse of either his wife or his son. Years passed, and finally the quest of the king was rewarded. One day, he saw that the mighty flow of the river had been dammed, by a structure constructed entirely of arrows. A youth of dazzling aspect was seen constructing the dam, by firing arrows into it. The king asked the youth for his identity. At this moment the Goddess Ganga arose from the river and presented the youth to the king as his son. She had named him Devaratha. She said, "O King, as I had promised you years ago, I have brought your son Devaratha back to you. He has been taught all the arts that Shukra, the Asura Guru knows and has learned the scriptures from Brihaspati, the Guru of the Devas. He has learnt the art of war and the knowledge of divine Astras (missiles) from the great Parashurama. He is in every way worthy of being your crown prince. My duty on earth is over now, take your son with you and anoint him as your successor. He is a worthy scion of the Bharata dynasty."
The king tried to persuade Ganga to accompany them, but she held steadfast in her refusal, as her earthly duties were over and she was anxious to return to her celestial abode. Though he could not persuade his wife to accompany him, Shantanu was very much overjoyed upon being reunited with his son. Indeed, any father would be proud of such a son, so devoted was he to his father and to the cause of truth and justice. He was famed for his honesty, as having never uttered an untruth, or improper words on anger. The people of the kingdom loved prince Devaratha very much and were eagerly awaiting the day when he would be the king. A few years passed. Shantanu was very happy after a long time. He spent most of his time with his son, teaching him the intricacies of statecraft, preparing him to rule the kingdom which will one day be his.
This period of joy in Shantanu's life could not last long, as he had been cursed to suffer. One day, he went to visit the chief of the fishermen in his country, to discuss the question of taxes. The chief was away from home. His daughter Satyavati was at home, and she received the king. She was a girl of extreme beauty. In addition to her beauty, the very air around her was scented with an intoxicating aroma, which had been bequeathed upon her as a boon from a sage. The king was filled with a lust for this woman. He immediately asked her to be his wife. Satyavati would not return an immediate answer, but asked the king to address this question to her father.
When the chief of fishermen returned shortly, the king requested his permission to pay his addresses to Satyavati. The fisherman thought for a while and said, "O King! I am very much honored that you have expressed a wish to marry my daughter. Indeed, it is impossible to think of a more worthy groom for her. However, there is an issue which must be resolved before this marriage can take place. You must know that she is my adopted daughter. Once while I was fishing in the river, I caught a fish of very large size. When I cut it open to cook it, I found a beautiful baby girl inside. I adopted her as my daughter, as I was childless. Such are the origins of Satyavati. Since she was born inside a fish, there was the odor of fish that used to cling to her when she was a young girl. Later, this was changed into a pleasant fragrance, by the boon of a Rishi. I have consulted astrologers regarding her future, and all of them are unanimous in predicting that she will wed a great king. They also predicted that her son will become the king after her husband. Now, everyone knows that your son Devaratha is going to inherit the kingdom after you. Unless you can guarantee that the child born to you and Satyavati will be your heir, I cannot consent to this marriage."
Naturally, Shantanu could not agree to this condition, as the kingdom belonged by right of birth to his son Devaratha. Besides, he was very fond of his son, and could not bear the thought of disinheriting him. Crestfallen, he returned to his palace. Try as he might, he could not put the beautiful form of Satyavati out of his mind. He became listless. He would spent hours by himself, deep in thought. A less perceptive son than Devaratha would have been alarmed by these signs. The prince was very much troubled when he saw that some care was weighing heavily upon Shantanu's mind. Being the soul of tact, he did not want to ask his father directly. He was sure that his father would have confided in him, had confidence been possible. Instead, he questioned the charioteer of his father, as to the places his father had visited recently. He at once perceived that among the places that his father had been recently, the only unusual place was that of the chief of the fishermen. He went there himself and upon beholding Satyavati, immediately perceived that this maiden must be the cause of his father's listlessness. What he could not understand was that having fallen in love with this woman, why his father had not been able to take her as his wife. He met the Satyavati's father and enquired as to why the marriage was not taking place. The fisherman related the story of Satyavati's birth and the prophecy concerning her children. The fisherman said, "O Prince, I set forth the condition that only the children of Satyavati should inherit the kingdom after your father. Your father could not bear the thought of disinheriting you, and hence the marriage shall not take place."
Prince Devaratha loved his father more than he loved the thought of becoming a king. He said, "If this is the only objection to the match. I would be glad to remove it. I assure you that I shall renounce my claim to the throne, paving the way for Satyavati's children to inherit the kingdom. Now you would be able to agree to this match and make my father very happy."
On hearing this, the fisherman replied: "O Prince. All of us know that once you have uttered a promise, it is inviolate. I now have full confidence that the sons of Satyavati will inherit the throne, as you have promised it. However, I fear that your children (for you will marry soon and have issue), will not be similarly reticent. They will stake a claim to the kingdom, and my grandchildren will know no peace. This is my main objection to the match."
Devaratha thought for a while and said, "What you say is definitely true. For myself, I can assure you that I have renounced the throne, but I might not be in a position to control the actions of my children. Therefore, to forward the cause of my father's happiness. I vow that I will remain a Brahmacharin (celibate) all my life. I shall never marry, never have any children who can rival your grandchildren for the throne of my father's kingdom."
The moment Devaratha uttered his terrible vow, the Devas appeared in the sky and praised his actions. There was a shower of flowers on him and the air was scented with a divine fragrance. All the Gods praised his action of supreme renunciation, and sang the praises of his devotion to his father. From this day onwards, Devaratha was known as Bhishma, which means one who had made a terrible vow. The fisherman consented immediately to the marriage, and Bhishma escorted his step-mother-to-be to his father's palace.
When King Shantanu heard of the terrible vow his son had made, he was rendered speechless with his admiration for his son. He embraced his son and said, "O Bhishma, You have made such a great sacrifice for the sake of my happiness. As long as this world lasts, your fame shall remain undiminished. I grant you a boon that death shall not be able to approach you, till such a time that you yourself desire to die. Old age shall not slow your limbs, nor confuse your wits. You will be a matchless warrior all your life, watching over the welfare of the Kurus." In return, the King got his son's promise that as long as the Kurus were under a threat, Bhishma would not choose death.
Bhishma's life would have many sorrows, and he was twice accursed, as he could not even die until the throne of the Kurus was safe. The curse of Vasishta would mean that he would lead a long life, and suffer great sorrows. He was to see his clansmen engage in a vicious battle. He would be forced to choose a side against his sense of justice, all because of the promise he had made his father. At last, he was able to embrace death at the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Still, it was not a bad life. He was a matchless warrior, feared by his enemies all his life, and was never defeated in battle, till he chose death in the battlefield.
The marriage of Satyavati and Shantanu was duly celebrated. Two sons were born to them, named Chitrasena and Vichitraveerya. Some time after this, Shantanu passed away. At this time the sons of Satyavati were mere children and therefore, Satyavati ruled as regent in their stead. She was ably assisted by Bhishma in running the kingdom. The kingdom was secure from the assaults of their neighboring kingdoms, as none could match Bhishma in battle, and therefore wisely refrained from attacking the Kurus.
When the elder son Chitrasena came of age, he was crowned the king of the Kurus. Unfortunately his reign did not last long. He happened to incur the wrath of a Gandharva, who was also named Chitrasena. The Gandharva challenged the young king to battle, and in the ensuing duel, Chitrasena was killed. Satyavati was heart broken. Vichitraveerya was duly crowned the king, and ruled with the assistance of Bhishma. One day, Satyavati called Bhishma to her apartments and said, "O Prince, You have been the bedrock of our kingdom. My son and I are very much indebted to you for the protection that you have afforded us from our foes. I feel that my son is now old enough to marry. It is time that we sought a suitable alliance for him. What is your opinion?"
Bhishma replied, "O Mother. I made a vow that I will protect you and your sons and establish their right to rule over the Kurus. I made this vow to forward my father's happiness. You owe me nothing. I do agree that it is time that my brother got married. I have just now heard that the King of Kashi is holding a Swayamvara gathering in which eligible suitors will be present. Either the princess chooses her husband out of her own free will, or her hand is awarded to the king who fulfills a challenge laid forth in the proceedings). His daughters are reputed to be very beautiful. They will make ideal wives for my brother."
Satyavati said, "It would be best if you went to this Swayamvara and espoused the cause of my son. He is too young to undertake such a task for himself. I am sure that your words will carry a lot more weight. Go to this Swayamvara and bring back my daughters-in-law."
According to his step-mother's suggestion, Bhishma went to the Swayamvara, being held at the court of Kashi. Many of his fellow kings were surprised to see him there, as his vow of celibacy was very well known. Some of them thought that he had merely come to take part in the festivities, as a Swayamvara was accompanied by a week long celebration in which there would be many feasts, performances of dance and music etc. Some of them thought that he was planning to discard his vow, and had come to seek a wife among the princesses of Kashi.
The day of the Swayamvara arrived at last. Once the king of Kashi had performed the introductions, Bhishma stood up and claimed all the three girls as his brother's brides. He challenged the kings present to a trial of strength, if any one wished to challenge his brother's claim. After uttering his challenge, he took the three maidens in his chariot and proceeded towards his kingdom. The kings that had assembled were incensed at this irregular proceedings. They knew him to be a great warrior, but they could not let such an insult go unchallenged. They made war upon Bhishma.
It was a very unequal combat. Although the kings ranged against him were many in number, and were no mean warriors, Bhishma was infinitely superior to them all. He routed all of them in battle. The only king to stand up to him to a certain extent was King Salya. Indeed, they were quite well matched in battle, for although Salya lacked Bhishma's experience in battle, he made up for it in enthusiasm. Such was the fierceness of the battle between these warriors, that even the Devas came out in the heavens to watch its progress. Salya was a very skilled archer and sorely harassed Bhishma. Bhishma was very much impressed with his opponent. He decided to end the battle quickly and therefore drew the Aindra missile, which had been given to him by Indra, and with it destroyed the horses and chariot of Salya. He affixed the Varuni Missile which had been given to him by Varuna, and aimed it at Salya, resolving to end his life. At this point, Amba, the eldest princess of Kashi, beseeched him to spare the life of the valiant warrior. Conceding her prayer, Bhishma stayed his Astra and spared Salya's life. Seeing Salya's defeat, the other kings too conceded the battle and returned to their kingdoms.
Bhishma brought the three Kashi princesses, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika to his step mother, and went away to make preparations for their wedding with his brother, the king Vichitraveerya. However, the eldest princess summoned him to her presence and said, "O Prince! You have carried away the three of us by force from our father's kingdom and are trying to marry us to your brother. However, even before the Swayamvara, I was in love with King Salya, whose life you spared in battle. I had fully resolved to choose him as my husband in the Swayamvara. Knowing this, and the path of Dharma, you will realize that I cannot marry your brother. Please do what you feel is right."
Bhishma saw the force of her argument. He said, "You should have made this clear when I abducted you! However, it does not matter much. I will make arrangements for you to be escorted to the kingdom of Salya. I will dower you like I would have for a sister of mine. Have no fear, you will be able to marry Salya."
In accordance with his promise, Bhishma sent Amba to the court of Salya, escorted by his chief minister and accompanied by many riches. When the entourage reached Salya, it suffered an unexpected check. Salya refused to marry Amba, as she had been won from him in fair combat by Bhishma. He said, "O Princess. Bhishma, the illustrious son of Shantanu won you from me in fair combat. He has defeated me in the presence of my peers. After this shame, I cannot marry you. Return to Bhishma and ask him for a solution for this impasse."
Heart broken, Amba returned to Hastinapura, the capital of the Kurus. Since she had already chosen Salya as her husband, Vichitraveerya also refused to marry her. In desperation, she beseeched Bhishma to marry her as no one else would. She accused him of forcing her to such a desperate measure. She even persuaded Satyavati to try and force Bhishma into marrying her. Bhishma sympathized with her plight, but would not break his vow upon any account.
Amba was filled with hatred for Bhishma, as the cause of ruining her life. She sought a champion to defeat Bhishma in battle and either force him to marry her or failing that, kill him. Since everyone knew Bhishma's prowess as a warrior, no one would come forth to espouse her cause. At last, she managed to convince Parashurama, the Guru of Bhishma to try and persuade the Kuru prince. Parashurama tried his best to convince Bhishma, but was unable to persuade him. He then challenged Bhishma to battle. The combat raged for a long time. In the end, Parashurama was forced to yield. He said to Amba, "My child, I tried my best, but my disciple is far too great a warrior to be defeated by me. I advise you to forget your vengeance, marry someone else and be happy."
However, Amba would not take this advice. Upon consideration, she decided that only the Gods can grant a boon for her that would lead to Bhishma's death. She went away to the forest and indulged in a terrible penance to Karthikeya (Skanda), the command-in-chief of the Deva army, the son of Lord Shiva. At last Karthikeya appeared in front of her and gave her a garland of flowers, saying that who ever wears this garland would be able to slay Bhishma. Much encouraged, Amba again tried to find a champion who would wear this garland and slay Bhishma. Once again, she found that no one would even try. She wandered from kingdom to kingdom in her quest. At last, she visited the king Drupada, the king of the Panchalas. He was renowned as a great warrior and also happened to be her kinsman. When she found that even he was unwilling, she was enraged and threw away the garland in the court. No one would even dare to touch the garland. The king took the garland with the help of a stick and tossed it on a tree in his garden. It lay there for a long time until someone _did_ pick it up and wear the garland. However, this was not going to happen for a very many years.
Amba then once again performed a tough penance, this time beseeching Shiva. The lord appeared before her and granted her the boon that she would be able to slay Bhishma in her next birth. Amba could not wait for that day to arrive. She lit a pyre and immolated herself. She was born as Shikandi, the daughter of a concubine of Drupada. One day, this girl happened to see the beautiful garland lying on the a branch in a tree in the garden. She climbed the tree, wore the garland, and went to her father's court. When Drupada saw that his daughter had worn this garland, he became afraid of Bhishma's wrath. According to his ministers' advice, he abandoned his daughter in the forest. As fate would have it, the daughter was found by some sages in the hermitage. They learned her story from her, and told her of her previous birth as Amba. According to their advice, she once again prayed to Lord Shiva, and was turned into a boy named Shikandi. She returned to her father's court. This time, Drupada could not exile him (her), as he feared Shiva's wrath as well. He brought him up as his son.


The Spyder version of the new Lamborghini Aventador supercar will be unveiled next month at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, but thanks to our spy photographers, we have some fresh spy shots to give us a head-start on the unveiling. The drop-top super car has been caught during some of its extensive winter testing somewhere in Northern Sweden. In these photos, we can see what the camouflage was being used to conceal: the roof can be lifted off. It also looks like the roof may be made of carbon fiber instead of the soft top fabric found on the Murcielago Roadster.
Everything else about the Aventador Spyder - from the design language to the performance - will be identical to its Coupe sibling. This would leave potential buyers with the option of purchasing a super car with a 700 HP V12 engine that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and can hit a top speed of 217 mph, all while enjoying the roadster style amenities.
Stay tuned! More details will follow when the Lamborghini Aventador Roadster is unveiled in Geneva next week!
Are you serious? V12 engine is truly awesome, whoa. The exterior design makes it look mysterious. I wonder how it is on the inside.
Yeah, Soul_Shinobi, the linking buttons to Social networking sites could be more useful to the researchers and enthusiast like us.
Too bad for TopSpeed since they don't provide linking buttons to Social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+ to share this article or to publish these awesome pictures.


The report on "Ayurveda Hospital Market" will help Major Players and the new entrants to understand scrutinize the market in detail. This information will encourage the Major Players to decide their business strategy and achieve proposed business aims.
1. To study and analyze the global Ayurveda Hospital consumption (value & volume) by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2024.
2. To understand the structure of Ayurveda Hospital market by identifying its various subsegments.
Focuses on the key global Ayurveda Hospital manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years.
3. To analyze the Ayurveda Hospital with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market.
5. To project the consumption of Ayurveda Hospital submarkets, with respect to key regions (along with their respective key countries).


If your home has a garage, it is most likely the place you choose to store a step ladder. Reacquaint yourself with ladder safety at home in honor of National Ladder Safety Month.
Next time you take the ladder out to change light bulbs or reach something from a top shelf, take care to use stepladders safely and avoid common ladder injuries.
Did you know that 136,118 emergency room visits per year related to ladder injuries?
Compared to the following examples, chances are much more likely to be involved in an incident with a ladder.


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New Website & Merry Christmas!


Start with a picnic in the park and then follow the music to find your dinner. Che Baba & Les Faux Bourgeois will be hosting. Your chef is Chef Mahin is just back form Mecca and inspired to create a multi-course feast for you of Persian delicacies.


Terrific original vintage 1941 promotional photo still for this Bogart classic . Great image of Peter Lorre and Bogie. The first original Maltese Falcon still photo we've ever had! Size 8x10". Has the original studio stamps on back.
See enlargeable images above and below.


text:
"At Least in Those Days We Had Enough to Eat": Colonialism, Independence, and the Cold War in Catumbela, Angola, 1974-1977
Jeremy R. Ball, Dickinson College
Local Consequences of the Global Cold War
Between 1974 and 1977, the Sociedade Agricola do Cassequel, Angola's most technologically advanced and profitable sugar plantation, located in Catumbela with over 5,000 employees, went from being an important asset in the financial and industrial empire of Portugal's Espirito Santo family to a state-owned symbol of the promises and failures of independent Angola's Marxist-Leninist economic plan. The story of Cassequel's decline, set within the tumultuous years of revolution and civil war, are paradigmatic of the local effects of the Cold War in Angola. For the Angolans who had relied on Cassequel for their livelihoods, this change meant unemployment and subsistence agriculture. In interviews conducted nearly thirty years after these events, former workers all told of their excitement and anticipation for a future without colonialism. The most common grievance against colonialism and Cassequel in particular was low wages. A more subtle and yet universally shared complaint was best summed up by Faustino Alfredo, who had worked for Cassequel as a relatively well paid nurse: "Colonialism was humiliation." Workers, however, also spoke well of Cassequel. They described with pride the size and efficiency of the company, just as they equated plantation life, for all its difficulties, with elements of better times lost. One interviewee summed it up when he said, "At least in those days we had enough to eat." The memories of those difficult times are no less complex than the geopolitical realities in which Cassequel, Angola, and the Portuguese Empire were enmeshed in those years.
For more information on the published version, visit Stanford University Press's Website.
Ball, Jeremy. "'At Least in Those Days We Had Enough to Eat": Colonialism, Independence, and the Cold War in Catumbela, Angola, 1974-1977." In Local Consequences of the Global Cold War, edited by Jeffrey A. Engel, 275-295. Washington, D.C.: Woodrow Wilson Center Press; Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2008.


text:
Italy demands €733M in fines from food delivery platforms
"I don't know how they could manage to pay and remain alive," said one European labor law expert.
Two cyclists working for the food delivery service Glovo at the Piazza Duomo in Milan | Piero Cruciatti/AFP via Getty Images
By Leonie Cater
Milan prosecutors and the Italian Labour Inspectorate have jointly ordered four major food delivery platforms to fully hire over 60,000 couriers — and pay a total of €733 million in fines.
Couriers who worked for Uber Eats, Glovo, Just Eat and Deliveroo in Italy from 2017 to 2020 must now be treated as "coordinated and continuous workers," prosecutors declared.
If the companies pay the fines within 90 days, they will be able to avoid criminal proceedings — but legal experts say it's a little more complicated than that.
Should the platforms hire all 60,000 couriers, there's a high price to pay to catch up on previous, missed social security payments, said European labor law specialist Luca de Vecchi. Social security contributions in Italy can amount to up to 33 percent of an employee's salary and must be paid by the employer.
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This poses a "very difficult decision" for the companies, de Vecchi added. Trying to appeal and fight the case in court risks criminal sanctions on the company managers, but accepting the fines could lead to the companies' demise.
"I don't know how they could manage to pay and remain alive," he said.
The sanctions are linked to alleged violations of health and safety regulations, following an investigation into driver accidents.
"It is no longer the time to say that riders are slaves, the time has come to say that they are citizens who need legal protection," said Milan's chief prosecutor Francesco Greco in an online press conference, according to Italian media.
"This is a very heavy blow to the platform narrative, to their business model based on false autonomy and the abuse of occasional work, on the denial of any right and the infringement of laws and contracts," added the Deliverance Milano syndicate group in a Facebook post. "There is no more time to waste: hiring and rights immediately, enough with precariousness and exploitation!"
The Assodelivery group — which represents the likes of Uber, Deliveroo, Glovo and JustEat — said they were "surprised" by the prosecutor's decision.
"The platforms, despite the specific differences, have operated in recent years in compliance with current regulations, including the classification of workers and workplace safety regulations," the group said in an emailed statement. "We therefore disagree with the picture illustrated today."
Attention will now turn to the platforms, and "whether they will go back to negotiate with the minister of labour and the representative trade unions to try to solve the issue," said labor law expert Valerio de Stefano.
A negotiated settlement might be the most likely outcome, de Vecchi said.
"I think that at the end of the story there will be a compromise solution that will allow these companies to stay active — probably a limited fine without any criminal prosecution," said de Vecchi. "But on the other end, they will be forced to change their operational model and to have a different standard in terms of employees' rights and guarantees."
The ruling comes off the back of a U.K. supreme court ruling that declared Uber drivers to be "workers" rather than self-employed contractors, as well as a recent Dutch appeals court decision that Deliveroo drivers are employees — signs of changing times in the gig economy.
"What's for sure is that it is basically more and more clear: we cannot pretend anymore that these people are just genuinely self-employed as if they were small undertakings — they are workers that should be protected as such," de Stefano said.
Giorgio Leali contributed reporting.
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text:
Smart cities will tackle rapid urbanisation: PM
Mysuru, Jan 3 (IANS) Terming rapid urbanisation as a challenge and critical for sustainability, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said smart cities would make the cities networked to become efficient, safe and better in delivery of services.
"For the first time in human history, we are in an urban century. By 2050, two-thirds of the world's population will live in cities and three billion people will join 3.5 billion dwellers, with 90 percent of the increase from developing countries," Modi said at the 103rd Indian Science Congress being held in the University of Mysore here.
Quoting some studies, Modi said the country would have over 10 percent of the global urban population by 2025 and 50 percent of its people in urban habitats by 2050.
ALSO READ: Javadekar hails DTH, cable networks, hands out STBs
"About 40 percent of the global urban population lives in informal settlements or slums, facing a range of health and nutritional challenges," he said after inaugurating the five-day annual science jamboree in the 700-acre sprawling Mansagagotri campus in the heritage city.
Observing that many urban clusters in Asia would exceed the population of mid-sized countries in the world over, Modi noted that cities account for more than two-thirds of global energy demand and result in up to 80 percent of global greenhouse gas emission.
"As cities are major engines of economic growth, employment opportunities and prosperity, they have to be sustained to become locomotives of our economies and havens of healthy living," he said.
Admitting that much of the urban infrastructure was yet to be built, he told the galaxy of scientists, Nobel laureates and hundreds of students that affordable and practical solutions had to be found for solid waste management, converting waste into building material and energy and recycling waste water.
ALSO READ: Smart ways to style your bottom wear
"Though we need sound policies to achieve our goals, we will rely on science and technology to provide creative solutions. We have to also develop better scientific tools to improve city planning with sensitivity to local ecology and heritage and reduce demand for transportation, improve mobility and reduce congestion.
"We need your inputs to make our cities immune to consequences of natural disasters and homes resilient. This will also mean making retrofit of buildings affordable," Modi added.
Tags: cities rapid smart tackle urbanisation


text: Smallest of three integers without comparison operators

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Only once in a great while does a writer come along who defies comparison—a writer so original he redefines the way we look at the world. Neal Stephenson is such a writer and Snow Crash is such a novel, weaving virtual reality, Sumerian myth, and just about everything in between with a cool, hip cybersensibility to bring us the gigathriller of the information age.
In reality, Hiro Protagonist delivers pizza for Uncle Enzo's CosoNostra Pizza Inc., but in the Metaverse he's a warrior prince. Plunging headlong into the enigma of a new computer virus that's striking down hackers everywhere, he races along the neon-lit streets on a search-and-destroy mission for the shadowy virtual villain threatening to bring about infocalypse.
I can't change the justification for this book from full-jusitification to left-justification, and I physically can't read it because of that. I really wish I could.
Not quite the cult classic some think this novel is. There are some good ideas and the story moves quickly, but I found it a little disorganized in spots. Definitely worth reading however, more for it's uniqueness than anything else.
The book was interesting. My only problem with Neal Stephenson's books is that he leaves large plot holes and introduces complex relationships and then tosses them as if they aren't important to the story. It is as if he wants to create a "freaky ride" but never knows how to finish the story. Maybe this is one book out of a series and I missed it. But this book takes a lot of patience.
I like Neal Stephenson's writing a lot. He does a great job of digginf into contemporary ideas and stretching them just a bit (in this case, into the future) to achieve some fun and intelligent entertainment. He does someting similar in Cryptonomicon (also recommended) and Anathem (his best, as far as I'm concerned). His dramatization of history (Baroque Cycle, Mongoliad) is also top notch. Snow Crash is a "virtual reality" type of novel in the sense that some of the critical action occurs in a virtual world. It is more compelling than other such novels (notably Neuromancer) because the technical framework is believable (and, in fact, only a slight extrapolation from the technology at the time this book was written — two decades ago — and almost within reach today). Another core idea of the novel revolves around the notion of the human brain as a computational device… and that is worked out well too (without trying to explain too much).
Neal Stephenson's writing style isn't for everyone. "Snow Crash" is the best book for you to sample and decide if Stephenson is your kind of author. It doesn't have nearly as many of his signature excesses and tangents as his other books. That's usually the hangup that people have with his writing style. As such, Snow Crash is a fast paced, fun ride with a good taste of things to come if you keep reading his works. Stephenson didn't learn how to write a good denouement until his novel "Anathem"; expect a finale that is terse and possibly leaves you wanting a little more. Despite its quirks, I love this novel and have reread it a few times. If you enjoy "Snow Crash" I recommend "Diamond Age" as an immediate follow up.
I can forgive a lot, but I just don't understand how a SCIENCE fiction book can screw up the basic components of cell biology. Plants cells have cell walls. Humans cells do not. I'm pretty sure that's 6th grade life science. Interesting dystopian world otherwise. Perhaps this is our deregulated future.
Very, very good! "Snow Crash" is a must read!
While some of the ideas in this book will seem dated, many have actually been invented! Great action packed novel that feels like a sci-fi movie. I'm keeping my paper back copy for my kids to read one day. This book got me reading again in highschool after a long time. I would recommend this to anyone who hates reading or has a subborn youth who doesn't enjoy reading.
Classic Neal Stephenson wit and an uproarious ride through a future that seems close enough to taste. I devour everything he writes, then I wait a while and read it again! Our best modern novelist.


0%65°37°Night - Clear. Winds variable at 3 to 9 mph (4.8 to 14.5 kph). The overnight low will be 37 °F (2.8 °C).Clear with a high of 65 °F (18.3 °C). Winds variable at 4 to 7 mph (6.4 to 11.3 kph).
20%70°52°Scattered thunderstorms today with a high of 70 °F (21.1 °C) and a low of 52 °F (11.1 °C).
Tonight - Clear. Winds variable at 3 to 9 mph (4.8 to 14.5 kph). The overnight low will be 37 °F (2.8 °C).
Today - Clear with a high of 65 °F (18.3 °C). Winds variable at 4 to 7 mph (6.4 to 11.3 kph).


For the third time in the 37 years they've lived there, Kenneth and Maxine Pirkle's house at 927 E. Lowell Street near Lake Parker won the city of Lakeland's residential beautification award. The commercial award for February went to Osprey Manor, apartments for independent senior living at 810 E. Bella Vista St. Owners Mainstay Healthcare started renovations after buying the building in April 2017. Both awards, given at today's City Commission meeting, recognize structures whose exterior and landscaping enhance the community.


text:
Governador Valadares GVR
All scheduled direct (non-stop) flights from Governador Valadares (GVR)
Governador Valadares Airport (GVR) is a smaller airport in Brazil. The one and only destination from here is CNF with Azul where you can fly 7 days a week.
Found {{ destCount }} routes with direct flights from Governador Valadares
Governador Valadares Airport (GVR), Brazil
Most popular destinations from Governador Valadares (GVR)
Tancredo Neves53 flights scheduled next month
Biggest airlines from Governador Valadares (GVR)
Top aircraft types from Governador Valadares (GVR)
How many airports are there in Governador Valadares?
There are only 1 airport in Governador Valadares: Governador Valadares Airport Airport (GVR).
What is the best airport to use when flyting from Governador Valadares?
The most convenient airport to fly from Governador Valadares is Governador Valadares Airport Airport (GVR).
How many airlines are flying from Governador Valadares Governador Valadares Airport (GVR)?
There are 1 airlines flying from Governador Valadares to 2 airports around the world, as of January 2023.
Which airlines are flying from Governador Valadares?
There is currently one airline with flights from Governador Valadares, Azul.
What is the airport in Governador Valadares (GVR) called?
The name of the airport in Governador Valadares (GVR) airport is Governador Valadares Airport (GVR), Brazil.
What is the airport code of Governador Valadares Airport airport?
The airport code of Governador Valadares Airport airport is GVR.
Flights from Governador Valadares (GVR)


text:
« NZ Alpine Club's Nice Cover Shot
Luis Benetiz's Inspiring Story »
Small VT School Uses Debriefs to Foster Classroom Wellbeing
Article on Bullying and Communication
Thanks to Laura Jean Whitcomb, publisher of Kid Stuff for letting us reprint this article about a ground-breaking move by a small school in central Vermont, The Willow School. One look at the their website almost has me rethinking our departure for New Zealand this fall, and instead, having our young son attend the school!
Outward Bound mandatory for all young people?
Like legendary Headmaster Dave Fowler at Proctor Academy in Andover, NH where he pioneered incorporating Outward Bound principles of experiential education and community building into the school's fabric in 1971, it sure looks like the founders of the Willow School are doing the same thing for younger students. The article below covers what will hopefully be incorporated in many schools across the U.S. and abroad. In New Zealand as well, (where we've been living), bullying appears to be a problem.
Proctor's experiential model
I'm reprinting this article in hopes that it will fall into the right hands of school teachers and administrators. During my 15-plus teaching years at Outward Bound, the debrief and reflection were key to a successful outcome for the students, and helped insure some strong "takeaways" that they could use as life skills. In fact, Outward Bound Professional Development courses also incorporate these basic techniques illustrated below. We incorporate them in our marriage, and of course in all we do at Mountain Spirit Institute.
Congrats to Kid Stuff, publisher Laura Jean Whitcomb, and writer Andi Diehn for reporting on this. "LJ" tells me an article is in the works which will focus on teens and high school-specific issues on bullying and debriefs. Stop by their website, to find out more about that article.
Recess Chat at the Willow School
By Andi Diehn
Kid's Stuff, April/May 2012
Students at the Willow School sit down to resolve any problems that arose during recess.
When my boys begged to ride the bus to school I waffled and wavered. When I was a kid, the bus was where bullies ruled. But school buses, which used to be such a hotbed of peer- to-peer verbal combat, are traveling flower shows compared to the myriad of venues that are even more conducive to bullying behavior: the Internet, cell phones and recess. When you think of all the ways there are for our children to hurt each other's feelings, it's shocking any of our children emerge from high school with ego intact.
But, as the recent online phenomenon tells us, It Gets Better.
One of the places where it gets better is at Willow School in Wilder, Vt. "Social and emotional development goes hand in hand with academics," says Riley O'Connor, teacher and co-founder of Willow School. "Some people say, 'Aren't you micromanaging their friendships? ' I see it as we're giving them the skills they need to manage themselves."
On the daily schedule at Willow School you'll see the usual list of academic subjects and lunchtime. You'll also see recess chat. Recess chat is when the students have a chance to discuss any behavior they encounter on the playground that doesn't feel fair, or nice. "It's not just a tattletale fest," O'Connor explains. "There's a process." Students first tell the person who hurt their feelings, then they tell a teacher, and if they still feel the issue isn't resolved, they bring it up at recess chat.
Ada Acker is the facilitator of the day's discussion.
O'Connor used to have a form of recess chat in her classroom in public school. She remembers why: "It was 1996 and I was teaching first grade. I had worked hard setting up a science project for them while they were at recess. The bell rang, I went out to get them, and one little girl was trying to tell me what had happened on the playground. I told her, 'I'm sure recess will be better tomorrow' In her mind I had completely dismissed her."
Because the children were so focused on what had happened at recess, they found it impossible to do the science project. O'Connor scrapped the plan and sat everyone down for a classroom meeting. They saved science for the next day. "People ask me how do I have time to do recess chats, and I have to ask, how do you have time not to?"
"Exclusion, body language, harsh tones," lists a second-grade girl when asked what sorts of behavior might come up at recess chat. Then she and a few of her friends demonstrate what hurtful body language might look like, complete with crossed arms, pouting mouths and rolling eyes. These kids know what hurtful behavior looks like and they don't tolerate it.
"That thing where the teacher takes the student out into the hallway to talk about their bad behavior we've flipped that on its head," says Willow School's other founder, Terri Ashley. "When they're embarrassed by their behavior, that's when they change. Being told what you did wrong in the quiet hallway is very different from hearing the collective gasp of your classmates when they hear it and ask, 'How could you do that?'
Recess chats may work well in a private school with only 18 children who represent grades kindergarten through fourth. But what about in the overcrowded classrooms of a public school? "Definitely," says O'Connor. "It might have to be called something less cute. But it would work. My son teaches seventh, eighth and ninth grade music and he came to me and asked, 'How do I get them to settle down and be ready for music?' I said, 'Recess chat!' He takes five or ten minutes before every class now."
Layne Kull makes a point during the discussion.
Norwich mom Mary Bender sent two of her four children to Willow School "They're really ahead of the curve in terms of preventing bullying," she says. "The whole group works with the child to change the behavior. The child's peers are asking, 'Why would you do that? "lt's much more powerful than if it was just coming from a teacher." Bender also points out that every child in the school learns to be comfortable confronting the person who made them feel badly.
We may worry more about bullying at the high school level, when pimples, income levels and social systems can cause rifts between people who used to be friends and know just what buttons to press to cause devastating reactions. But the seeds for bullying behavior are planted in the elementary years. This is when children learn how to act, how to respond, how to talk, and how to value themselves. If all elementary• schools had daily meetings to discuss behaviors and feelings, we might see fewer victims, perpetrators and bystanders in the later grades. "You can't fix everything," says O'Connor. "But some things, you can fix."
PARENT TIP: Bullying tends to happen out of sight of parents and other adults. But there are things we can do to prepare our children. By talking about bullying, we make it less likely it will become a taboo, secretive subject. We make it less likely they will suffer through it alone. Here are a few tips on how to get the conversation started.
Play the "what if" game Ask your child what they would do if they saw someone teasing someone else. What would they do if someone called them names" Who would they tell if they saw a child excluding another child from a game? Be specific about who they can go to with problems – teachers, guidance counselors, parents of friends and, of course, you. Teach compassion and acceptance. Talk about bullying scenes from movies and books and discuss how different behavior could have been used to avoid unhealthy confrontations. Highlight moments of compassion and acceptance you witness as a family. Don't let anyone's mean behavior go unnoticed. When bullies can't be avoided , keep a written log of incidents. Encourage your child to write down their experiences, too. Report incidents to the school and police. Help your child find buddies for the playground, school bus, classroom, wherever they're being mistreated. Talk to the parent's of other victims and share strategies for eliminating the bullying behavior.
Editor's Note: We would love to hear any feedback or news about how this article is making a difference. Let us know what you think, and we'll pass on what we hear to the Kid Stuff team.
Tags: Andi Diehn, Andover, bullying, Communication, community building, Compassion, Dave Fowler, debriefing, Experiential Education, Kid Stuff, Laura Jean Whitcomb, Mountain Spirit, New Zealand, NH, Outward Bound Professional, Proctor Academy, professional development, Recess Chat, student behavior, The Willow School, Vermont, Vt, Wilder
This entry was posted on 10/08/2012 at 23:30 and is filed under Experiential Education, Holistic Living, Inner Work, Leadership, Sustainable Living/Communities, Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.


This section provides you with tips on how to complain effectively. If you have a problem with something you have bought (either goods or services), the first step is to go back to the person selling the goods or providing the service and complain.
Most traders want the goodwill of their customers and will sort the problem out. Some traders may be more difficult to deal with. Use the information on this page to help you resolve your problem.
If your problem is with an overseas internet retailer, see our page on internet shopping.
This section also contains links to information on the different Disputes Tribunals (for goods and service problems, and the specific Tribunal for motor vehicle purchases).
Collect anything in writing that can help prove your case eg, a receipt which proves the goods were bought from that shop on a certain date, or a quote for a service.
Decide what the problem is and check out your rights. Check in the Consumer Info section on such topics as Consumer Guarantees Act or Fair Trading Act to find out your rights when things go wrong.
List the facts about the complaint eg, the date, time, anything the trader or an assistant said about the goods or service.
If the goods were a gift - under the Consumer Guarantees Act if you have been given a gift that turns out to be faulty then the trader must deal with you rather than the person who bought the gift. The trader must also deal with you if you are using an exchange card for an unwanted gift. But the trader can insist on only dealing with the person who bought the gift in any other situation. Ask the person who gave you the gift if they are willing to complain for you. The trader may want to see the receipt.
Next, visit the trader to discuss your complaint.
Be polite, but firm and clear. Some traders have a policy of refunding your money and the sales assistant may sort the problem out straight away.
If you have no success with the assistant ask to speak to the manager or owner of the business. Don' be put off by an assistant who won't let you speak to their supervisor or manager.
Explain the problem - eg,"I bought this pair of shoes here two weeks ago and now the strap has broken".
Tell the trader what you want done about the problem - eg, "If you can do the job within two weeks I want the strap neatly repaired. Otherwise I want my money back please".
Don' get into arguments about whose fault the problem is. Don't lose your temper.
Don' let the trader say the goods must go back to the manufacturer. The trader must get the problem fixed.
Keep repeating what is wrong with the goods or service and what you want done about it.


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Refractive surgery is used to correct common eye disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Refractive surgery is designed to alter the shape of the cornea in order to improve the patient's vision. Although patients experience varying degrees of discomfort after surgery, the procedure is usually painless and the improvement in vision is noticeable quickly as healing occurs. Vision may fluctuate with PRK in the first five days after surgery.
PRK, which stands for photorefractive keratectomy, is a form of laser refractive surgery, which uses the excimer laser to treat common refractive errors. Like other types of refractive surgery, the goal of PRK is to reshape the cornea so that light traveling through it is properly focused onto the retina at the back of the eye. During PRK the corneal epithelium is removed and the corneal stroma is reshaped. Following the procedure, the corneal epithelium must regrow over the treatment zone. A flap, such as with LASIK, is not made during PRK.
People with myopia, or nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism, and those with moderate amounts of hyperopia, or farsightedness, with or without astigmatism, are potential candidates for PRK. Pre-exiting eye conditions, the amount of refractive error, and the thickness of the cornea all play roles in determining who qualifies for PRK.
Seeing halos around images. These are most noticeable when you're viewing lights at night, such as while you're driving.
The primary difference between PRK and LASIK refractive surgery is that in LASIK, the vision correction occurs under a thin flap of the cornea, while in PRK, the vision correction is performed on the surface of the cornea after the epithelium has been removed. The epithelial cells then heal over the following three to four days in order to cover the treatment zone on the cornea. In general, patients tend to report less postoperative discomfort with LASIK than with PRK. However, the full set of risks and benefits to each procedure and the patient's individual medical and occupational requirements must be considered when choosing the most appropriate procedure.
Custom ablation is the term for the customized removal of corneal tissue in PRK and LASIK procedures. Prior to surgery, a test called corneal aberrometry measures and analyzes aberrations, or imperfections, of the eye, and produces a three dimensional map of the cornea. This map is used to tailor the removal of tissue accounting for the patient's unique aberrations.
This is a common and often misunderstood question for many patients who are considering refractive surgery. There are instances where you may need glasses following refractive surgery. Some of those are listed below.
For special situations (such as night driving) in which the sharpest vision is desirable, you may still want or need to wear glasses or contact lenses with a mild correction.
If following your procedure, you still have a small amount of refractive error, you may need glasses to achieve your best corrected visual acuity.
During the normal development of presbyopia, patients who have had refractive surgery may need reading glasses. Presbyopia is a decrease in the ability to focus on near objects, which occurs naturally in the early- to mid-40s and is unrelated to the surgical procedure. Patients with presbyopia and a small amount of nearsightedness who are used to removing their glasses to be able to read can sometimes see very noticeable change. These patients may find they can see well at a distance without glasses, but need glasses to read following refractive surgery.
I have cataracts. Should I have refractive surgery before I have cataract surgery?
This is a discussion to have with your provider. In general, since cataract surgery also can correct for many pre-existing refractive errors, only the cataract surgery would be needed. Refractive surgery can be used following cataract surgery to correct minor residual refractive errors in some instances.


text:
Matt Lucas >
Lucas Lined Up For Glee
By WENN on 08 June 2010
Follow Matt Lucas
Matt Lucas
Picture: Matt Lucas arrives at Nobu resaturant London, England - 13.05.10
LITTLE BRITAIN actor Matt Lucas has landed a role on hit U.S. show GLEE - as a teacher secretly obsessed with musicals.
The funnyman will show off his song and dance skills as a high school teacher with a hidden love for Broadway, with plans for him to perform a solo track on the series.
The Alice In Wonderland star will have to balance his Glee stint with his forthcoming series Come Fly With Me, created with his comedy partner, David Walliams.
Matt Lucas To Return To 'Doctor Who' For Series 10
Is BBC3 Facing Closure Despite High Profile Opposition?
Matt Lucas Undergoes Root Canal Surgery
Small Apartments: Meet 2013's Most Random Cast! (Trailer and Pictures)
Small Apartments Trailer
Small Apartments Movie Review
Matt Lucas Lands Music Video Director Job
Lucas: 'Shakin' Stevens Made Me Gay'
Punk Goes Out Of This World In 'How To Talk To Girls At Parties' Trailer
A curious alien lands in the London suburb of Croydon as punk is sweeping Britain...
Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass Trailer
As Alice is once again taken into the magical and mysterious world that she's somehow...
Alice Through The Looking Glass - Teaser Trailer
Alice once again returns to Wonderland and meets a lot of familiar faces. This time...
Paddington Movie Review
It's difficult not to go into a movie like this with a sense of dread,...
Paddington Trailer
In the jungles of Peru, a young bear learns about and becomes obsessed with Great...
Paddington is a young Peruvian bear who has always held a curiosity for the city...
In Secret Movie Review
Filmmaker Charlie Stratton takes a rather obvious approach to Emile Zola's iconic 1867 novel Therese...
In Secret Trailer
Therese Raquin is a young woman living with her aunt and cousin Camille. One day...
The Look of Love Movie Review
Michael Winterbottom vividly recreates swinging 1960s London in this biopic about one of Soho's most...
Franklin Franklin is a wig-donning, Swiss wannabe loner who lives alone in a small apartment...
Relentlessly quirky and strange, this pitch black comedy manages to combine its outrageous silliness with...
Look Of Love Trailer
Paul Raymond became the wealthiest man in the UK when he opened the country's first...
Arthur Christmas Trailer
Arthur Christmas is the clumsy youngest son of the famous Santa Claus. Together with his...
Bridesmaids Trailer
When Annie's best friend Lillian tells her that she's getting married, she's more than obliged...
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Unfortunately, dental disease exists and is quite common. With treatment, a healthy oral environment can be reestablished.
Dental implants are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth and offer several advantages over traditional methods. They can be used to replace single teeth or even help the retention of removable prostheses.


text:
# SSIDObserver

![teaser](/screenshots/ssid_teaser.png)

Nightly built Wi-Fi network SSID observer.
Its all about PUBLIC API built on top of native "SystemConfiguration" framework. Basically it calls CNCopySupportedInterfaces() and takes "en0" network adaptor information. Observer is just polling network info once a time interval.

Usage:
```objc
    self.observer = [APSSIDInfoObserver new];

    __weak __typeof(self) weakSelf = self;
    [self.observer setSSIDChangedBlock:^(APSSIDModel *model){
        if (model) {
            weakSelf.networkStatusLabel.text = [NSString stringWithFormat:@"Network is: %@", model.ssid];
        } else {
            weakSelf.networkStatusLabel.text = @"Cannot find wifi network";
        }
    }];
    [self.observer startObserving];
```

APSSIDModel properties:

```objc
/**
 *  Represents Basic Service Set Identification
 */
@property (nonatomic, copy, readonly) NSString *bssid;

/**
 *  Reprsents Service Set Identification a.k.a Wi-Fi Name
 */
@property (nonatomic, copy, readonly) NSString *ssid;

/**
 *  Represents HEX representation of SSID
 */
@property (nonatomic, copy, readonly) NSData *ssidData;
```

One more thing. You can use APSSIDInfoProvider if you don't need for observation, but just want to obtain current network info.

```objc
- (APSSIDModel *)currentServiceInfo;
```

###TODO:

1. OS X Support. I didn't test it on OS X platform, but I suppose it will just take "en0" information.

###Contribution:

Feel free to open issues and pull requests. Or email me krivoblotsky@me.com

###License:
The MIT License (MIT)

Copyright (c) 2015 Serg Krivoblotsky

Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy
of this software and associated documentation files (the "Software"), to deal
in the Software without restriction, including without limitation the rights
to use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell
copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is
furnished to do so, subject to the following conditions:

The above copyright notice and this permission notice shall be included in all
copies or substantial portions of the Software.

THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS", WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY,
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE
AUTHORS OR COPYRIGHT HOLDERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM, DAMAGES OR OTHER
LIABILITY, WHETHER IN AN ACTION OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM,
OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE OR THE USE OR OTHER DEALINGS IN THE
SOFTWARE.


The president of Barilla, the world's biggest pasta maker, explained his company would never make ads that portrayed gay families and now activists around the world are proposing a boycott against Barilla products, which include the 'Mulino Bianco' line of biscuits and kids' snacks.
The protest became a trending topic on Twitter shortly after Barilla's remarks aired, with the hashtag #boicottabarilla.
"I would never make a spot with a homosexual family. Not out of a lack of respect but because I don't see it like they do. (My idea of) family is a classic family where the woman has a fundamental role," said Guido Barilla on Italian radio program La Zanzara. "We have a different concept with regard to the gay family. For us, the concept of the sacred family remains a fundamental value of the company".
After his comments hit the press, he took to Twitter to apologize for the misstep, tweeting: "I apologize very much for having offended the sensibilities of many. I have the deepest respect for all the people without distinction."
The controversy was soon turned into an occasion for other pasta competitors to exploit by clarifying and stating where they stand on this issue and, most importantly, propose their products as an alternative to those who want to boycott Barilla.
Buitoni, published on its Facebook page a photo of an open door with a caption saying: "A Casa Buitoni c'è posto per tutti". (In the Buitoni home there is room for everybody.) A good occasion to make people forget about the February horse meat pasta scandal, they were caught up in.
Many people posted on the De Cecco pasta Facebook page with comments like : "De Cecco is a much finer pasta product that does not define who your family is but what your dinner is!"
Garofalo pasta stated: "A noi non importa con chi la fai, l'importante e' che la fai al dente" (We don't care who you prepare it with, as long as you cook it 'al dente'.).
As at ITALY Magazine, we think this is turning a serious issue into a marketing viral war, we suggest you make your own pasta, just get yourself a packet of good flour and some eggs, follow our recipe below and you will be sure to make great pasta that will agree completely with both your palate and your political views.
Every Italian has his/her own way of making pasta but, in general, it is one egg and 100g of plain flour per person.
Pile some of the flour onto your board and make a well in the middle. (You can use all the flour, but it is a good idea to leave some back for adding later to make sure you get the correct consistency).
Break the eggs into the well and add the salt.
Either with a fork or your hands, gradually incorporate the flour. Keep adding flour until the mixture is of the correct consistency - basically a soft dough.
Knead the dough with the heel of your hand until it is smooth and elastic, and then leave it to rest for about 10 minutes. Place the dough on a board or work surface and start rolling away from you.
When the dough is very thin, about 2mm, fold it, then cut into strips and cover them with a tea-towel until they are ready to use. To cook the pasta, make sure a large pan of salted water is at a rolling boil and then cook for a few minutes, until the tagliatelle come to the surface. Traditionally, tagliatelle is served simply with butter and parmesan cheese or a ragù. It is also wonderful with funghi porcini or tartufo (truffle) sauce. Buon appetito!


It took me 5 minutes to make these sets.
very nice!! I love em.
Those r so cool. Can I used my pokemon signature here?
KomodoDragon schrieb: Those r so cool. Can I used my pokemon signature here?
Fine, I'll just use some new ones...just need some pics to make the sets.