text:
Spy Myung-wol, what happened to you?
Every year there's always that one drama which starts out so well but halfway through become a train wreck in too many ways to count, that one drama that you cheer on, hoping and praying it'll improve the next week, that one drama whose fans can't even explain why they even watch. Spy Myung-wol is my "drama that could have been" for this year.
When news and teasers of Myung-wol were first released, I was definitely interested. My train of thought went a bit like this: "North Korean spy in South Korea = boring, I already saw this. Modern day comedy with North Korean spies in South Korea = wait what? Is that even allowed? Who thought of this?" The premise was new in some ways and I wanted to see what the writers would do with the touchy subject of the North-South tensions. Plus I'm a fan of Eric, not because of Shinhwa or his gorgeous looks but because he's a decent actor, a very down-to-earth celebrity, and overall classy man.
So Myung-wol started off well, with little jokes and quirkiness that had me chuckling and a light arc which left me feeling good. Despite the dubious conditions and sometimes borderline ridiculous plot lines, I was entertained. But somewhere between Mission Capture Hallyu Star for the Good of North Korea and falling in love with said star, I lost interest. Part of it is due to the staleness of the writing. After all, you can rely on over-the-top antics only so far; the story must have substance and actually make sense to keep interest and Myung-wol had none of that. Once the plot left the land of lightheartedness and entered the obligatory angst and darkness, it fell apart. Part of it was the acting. I just could not feel the chemistry between Eric and Han Ye-seul. The directing was also lacking here and there with no real direction. I stopped watching.
But the biggest downfall of the disaster that is Spy Myung-Wol is the scandal that erupted. Seoulbeats followed and commented on the entire debacle of Han Ye-seul's breakdown, departure, and the drama that followed the drama all the way until the end. Once I heard of the news, I came back to Myung-wol. I watched and dissected Episode 10, which became my favorite episode, because finally there was quality writing and the chockful meta was the entertainment that made me love the drama in the first place. I suppose once you have real juicy ideas to base the story on, the writing comes more easily. However once Ye-seul came back, the mess just exploded even further into a million random bits. They dragged out the angst, they added noble idiocy, they kept hidden secrets which were so blatantly obvious and should have been revealed. They made Kang-woo useless, Ryu an idiot, and Myung-wol an indecisive and frail anti-heroine. And In-ah suddenly becomes the good guy? The finale with its feel-good happy ending and perfect bow tie on a fan service affair left me so disappointed and empty. All the angst, the tormented tears, the unnecessary departures were for nothing. Why Myung-wol why?
It's been two weeks since the end of this drama but the bitterness remains every time I think of it. I expected so much, I was rewarded with so much, but then it was all taken away. Every good drama needs to have at least two of the three crucial elements: writing, acting, and directing. Unfortunately, the weakness of all three and the frayed relationships which developed after the scandal turned Myung-wol into an unfortunate failure. This was the drama that could have been, the drama which could have made a name for Eric, the drama which may have shot Han Ye-seul to enough fame that she could forever leave behind dramaland, the drama that could have somewhat fill the empty hole that is City Hunter. However, it faltered and fell short, failing to leave any lasting memories in the mind of this drama addict.
What did you think of Spy Myung-wol? Was there untapped potential or was it a dud from the very start?
Tags: Eric, Han Ye Seul, Shinhwa, Spy Myung-wol
Interested in writing for Seoulbeats as a guest? Email us at info[at]seoulbeats.com with "Guest contribution" in the subject line.
The Kang Ho-Dong Scandal Redux
Watch Out Idol World: It's About To Get Ludacris

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


From initials to "happy birthday" to an inspirational quote, the custom possibilities are endless—and comfy.
Make their next set of socks stitch perfect. These extra comfy Supima™ cotton pairs are knit with a personal message of your choosing. Keep it simple (and avoid laundry day mix-ups) with initials at the ankle and full name across the top, wish someone special a happy birthday, or keep a friend on their toes with an inside joke. The possibilities are endless—as long as they fit within eight characters at the ankle and twenty characters across the toes. Made to order in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
My daughter uses these every day and easy to sort from other family members' socks as they are personalized!
so practical when living with a lot of people. Easy identification of a commonly worn item.
Such a cool and personal gift for your feet!


text:
require "signings_history/engine"

module SigningsHistory
end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
SMILING'S MY FAVOURITE
Fashion and Travel Blog
Tag: NYFW
THE BEST OF FASHION MONTH SS18
On October 7, 2017 October 11, 2017 By smilingsmyfavourite95In FashionLeave a comment
And breath… With another fashion month done it will be interesting to see which trends trickle down onto the high street next season. In my previous post I focused on the trends of NYFW, in which I expressed my disappointment on what the start of the season had to offer. Unfortunately the rest of the season didn't fill me with much hope for SS18. I was disappointed by the humdrum, unexciting and monotonous looks on display! It is clear that once many designers find a style that works for them their collections just become slight variations of the same thing, and I couldn't help but feel let down by some of my favourite designers.
There also appeared to be a clear display of location over substance, with many designers focusing on their show's location rather than their show's substance. Chanel and Saint Lauren were clear offenders of this crime, (don't even get me started on the cheap, tacky, plastic hats, boots and gloves at Chanel!).
But I wasn't completely discouraged by this past fashion month, some designers made sure their work stood out. As stated in my previous post Stuart Vevers' put on a spectacle at Coach's SS18; currently one of my favourite fashion houses. My other favourites from NYFW can be found in my previous post; but here are some of favourite looks from LFW, MFW and PFW:
VERSACE SS18 READY-TO-WEAR MFW
I it's safe to say that the Versace SS18 was a momentous occasion in fashion history, never mind just being the highlight of fashion month. In this iconic show we saw Donatella Versace pay tribute to her late-brother, Ganni, bringing back some of his most memorable looks. It also saw the return of the original supermodels, Cindy, Claudia, Naomi, Carla and Helena all draped in gold. It was a beautiful, luxurious explosion of colour, style and glamour that will be hard to top.
ASHISH SS18 READY-TO-WEAR – LFW
Ashish's spooky SS18 collection has got me feeling like the next supreme (sorry for all those non-AHS fans). Ashish is constantly serving looks that have got me hyped – if sequins, red and black are involved I'm bound to be hyped. The Deli-born designer is becoming one of my favourites, with each show presenting something equally as new and exciting as the last.
CHRISTIAN DIOR SS18 READY-TO-WEAR PFW
I must say I am in di-awe of how many different variations of her signature tule gown Maria Grazia Chiuri can produce. Each time it appears on her runway I am pleased by its new form. This season we saw tule accompanied with denim, sequins, leather and tweed. Its hard to believe that one show could embody so many different looks, from French girl chic to biker chick to ballerina esque, Niki de Saint Phalle inspired, ballgowns. Chiuri provided an exuberant, glistening, aesthetically pleasing collection that stood out in this mundane fashion month.
GUCCI SS18 READY-TO-WEAR MFW
Alessandro Michele's Elton John, 80's inspired collection was as flamboyant as ever with an abundance of fur, sequins and fiercely vibrant colours on display. Michele has admitted that he finds it hard to evolve his aesthetic further, but this show could suggest that he is starting to do so. I hope next season he evolves it even further to avoid it becoming overdone.
LOUIS VUITTON SS18 READY-TO-WEAR PFW
I was not overly impressed with the Louis Vuitton collection as a whole, but one item stood out for me… The Stranger Things Tee! As a massive fan of the Netflix original series, I couldn't not include it on my fashion month round-up post. I desperately need this tee in my life, I am hoping some of the High Street stores make a more affordable variation of this.
Photos – Indigital
THE BEST OF NYFW SS18
On September 15, 2017 October 7, 2017 By smilingsmyfavourite95In FashionLeave a comment
The start of September has most certainly brought with it a winter's chill and a hint of orange to the trees, but to all followers of fashion the start of September means one thing, and one thing only, the start of Spring/Summer fashion week season. As always the season kicked off in NYC and I was eager to see what the designers in the Big Apple would bring to the SS18 table. However, the season did not begin with its usual bang and I was disappointed by the simplistic collections the designer had to offer. Whilst minimalism can be desirable, too much of it is just plain boring. It wasn't until the second half of the week that my interest was peaked.
Stuart Vevers' dazzling Coach X Keith Haring show full of satin, silks and sparkles was a treat for the eyes and restored my faith in the fashion industry. Not only was the collection doused in glitter but so was the runway, Vever's transformed Basketball City into a sparkling paradise. Libertine's SS18 collection did not disappoint also. Johnson Hartig tried his best to take everyone's mind off recent turmoils and tragedy's, and he succeeded with an energetic and uplifting show littered with glitter and vibrant colours. Oscar de la Renta also made sure that their show sparkled; delicate tulle ballgowns with intricate sequin embroidery could be found on the runway. And whilst I wasn't fussed on the Alexander Wang collection, I, along with the rest of the world, was memorised by Kaia Gerber's sassy supermodel-worthy walk. The young model, who made her runway debut at the Calvin Klein show at the start of the work, has clearly been taught some tricks by her supermodel mother, Cindy Crawford.
Whilst the week did get off to a slow start, it was saved by it's finale. Let's hope that LFW does not begin as mundanely as NYFW.
COACH 1941 SS18 READY-TO-WEAR
DETAILS FROM @COACH'S INSTAGRAM
Sparkle, pop. First look at the #CoachSS18 runway show. See more of the new collection on Instagram Stories. #CoachNY #CoachxKeithHaring #artestarnyc #NYFW @keithharingfoundation
A post shared by Coach (@coach) on Sep 12, 2017 at 11:25am PDT
An unexpected point of view. Backstage details from the #CoachSS18 runway show. #CoachNY #NYFW
For Spring 2018, the Western bootie gets amped-up in glitter and metallic pink leather. #CoachSS18 #NYFW #CoachNY
A post shared by Coach (@coach) on Sep 12, 2017 at 12:04pm PDT
LIBETINE READY-TO-WEAR SS18
OSCAR DE LA RENTA READY-TO-WEAR SS18
KAIA'S WALK
Honestly, I'm impressed by Kaia Gerber performace in Alexander Wang fashion show yesterday at NYFW 👏 I confess that before I thought Kaia was entering the industry on behalf of her mother, came in my mind nepotism, but yesterday she proved has talent. Look and watch this catwalk, I mean, she walks better than Kendall, Bella, Stella or Taylor, I'm impressed. She's only 16, she has to improve on some things like the arm movement but I see a lot of potential in her and I'm really hoping she'll grow and build a career for the talent she has. Maybe we can say that the fashion world is surviving, some talents are coming like Grace Elizabeth, Imaan and Vitto. Good luck in your long journey @kaiagerber 😊 thoughts?
A post shared by Victoria's Secret ✨ Videos (@videosvictoriassecret) on Sep 10, 2017 at 1:47pm PDT
I also fell in love with Sandy Liang's SS18 Ready-to-wear collection full of frills, lace, quilt and pastels.
THE BEST OF NYFW FW17
On February 18, 2017 March 23, 2017 By smilingsmyfavourite95In FashionLeave a comment
As I sit in the stuffy concrete slab that is the university library, stylish men and women from across the globe scurry like mice from show to show whilst fighting the icy winds of a very snowy NYC. Determined not to let the freezing climate compromise their style, show-goers immerse themselves in the fashion frenzy that is NYFW. It all began with the return of one of my favourite fashion duos, Raf Simons and Pieter Mulier, at their debut Calvin Klein Collection show and it all ended with Marc Jacob's old-school hip-hop inspired finale.
Calvin Klein Collection FW17
Raf Simons and his right-hand man Pieter Mulier kicked off their domination of the all-American brand, Calvin Klein, in true American style, literally. This colourful collection was a celebration of America's past, present and future littered with motifs and symbols of its diverse history. Stiff denim shirts, oversized leather jackets and wrap shirts fashioned out of the American flag hit a home run when paying homage to the nations rich culture. Raf provided the brand with the exact regeneration that it needed. This collection offered a true insight into the brands future under new leadership.
Marc Jacobs FW17
Marc Jacobs' diverse array of models hit the streets of New York, utilising the concrete sidewalk as his very own catwalk to parade his '70s hip-hop inspired collection. It appears Jacobs took on board the backlash that came with the dreadlock controversy of his SS17 collection. Jacobs ensured his army of models comprised of those representing diverse cultures and origins. The neutral palette collection made up of oversized corduroy jackets, bellowing bell-bottom trousers, oversized '70s inspired bling accompanied by large Stephen Jones hats. Jacobs ended fashion week with a bang and set the standards high for London.
Coach 1941 FW17
Those attending Stuart Vevers' FW17 show found themselves immersed in a post-apocalyptic derelict world were the all-American brand appeared to be the surviving attire. As always there was a star-studded front row with the likes of it-girls Emma Roberts and Selena Gomez making an appearance. Vevers signature floral patchwork dresses and oversized outerwear, made up of bombers, leather-clad jackets and varsity jackets, graced the runway once again. The British creative director has certainly found his voice at Coach, securing the brands new distinct style and establishing the brands prestige among the stars.
Anniesa Hasibuan FW17
Anniesa Hasibuan has made history once again with her new FW17 collection. Hasibuan made the headlines following her first diverse collection, which was the first collection to be presented with hijabs at NYFW. This season the Indonesian designer made the conscious decision to only employ immigrants and second-generation immigrants to walk in her show following the controversial Muslim immigration ban put in place by the Trump administration. Enabling a sense of inclusion, acceptance and unity to be found following the implementation of the immigration ban. Hasibuan conveyed the true beauty of Islam with her exquisite collection and her bold casting criteria.
Yeezy FW17
I must admit I have never understood the Yeezy attraction. The rapper's ability to plagiarise and merely merge the signature looks of hottest brands of the moment has resulted in the production of bland collections which lack any real uniqueness. However, in Trump's new America where bans and walls are put in place to keep diversity at a minimum I could not help but admire the rapper's choice to use a female Muslim model who chooses to wear the hijab. A clear message that diversity and love will triumph in Trump's America.
FAVOURITE COLLECTIONS FROM NYFW SS17
On September 20, 2016 March 23, 2017 By smilingsmyfavourite95In Fashion, Uncategorized3 Comments
There's a slight chill in the air which can only mean one thing… Spring/Summer '17 fashion week season is upon us! My phone becomes (even more so than normal) a further extension of my arm, my battery life severely suffers and my Instagram following count rapidly increases. It all starts in the city that never sleeps, America's capital of culture and arguably the world's fashion capital, New York. With over 100 shows, events and presentations in such a short, snappy period I can only imagine the week is a blur of glitz, and glamour for those lucky enough to attend. NYFW wouldn't be the same without some drama and controversy and this season was no exception. We were reminded that even models make mistakes like us mere morals when Bella Hadid took a tumble during the Michael Kors show, and tension was high following the use of dreadlocks in Marc Jacob's show with no recognition of the culture who provided the iconic look. I could ramble on endlessly about all NYFW had to offer, but do not fear, I have resisted the urge to do so and I have disciplined myself. I am only going to share my thoughts on six of my favourite collections from NYFW.
Marc Jacobs SS17 Ready-To-Wear – Thursday 15th September 2016
First and foremost, is the electro-pop inspired Marc Jacobs SS17 ready-to-wear collection. Marc Jacob's is in hot water after the use of pastel coloured dreadlocks from Etsy during Thursday's show and has been accused of cultural appropriation. The designer's response to such backlash has caused further outcry by failing to credit the black culture for the iconic look. Whilst I don't agree with those in privileged and influential positions not using their status to address pressing issues; I can't help but admire this fun, vibrant collection made up of sequins, suede, satin and more. Jacob's inspiration from the party goers of the late '80s and '90s and their dedication to the cause wasn't only evident in the killer 'spice up your life' platforms but also in the staging. The contrast of the pastel pallet with the dark and grungy runway, peppered with neon lights and accompanied by Underground's Born Slippy in the background ensured homage was paid to the gritty urban rave scene of the '90s. This collection made me want to plaster myself in glitter, wear the brightest eye shadow I could find, grab my platforms and head to the club whilst bopping along to Insomnia by Faithless.
Thom Browne SS17 Ready-To-Wear – Monday 12th September 2016
Thom Browne threw a pool party that would rival that of Gatsby himself. This elaborate show, set in an underground space turned into a 1950s bath-house, filled with energetic colour-blocking which seemed to reflect the pop-art movement of the era, was sure to mesmerise its spectators. The trompe l'oeil effect merging the masculinity and femininity of the pieces in a single smooth seamless transition is both aesthetically pleasing and intriguing. The show stopper has to be the dog mirror embroidered headpiece, a homage to Browne's dog – Hector, which reflects a love and commitment to man's best friend that only fellow dog owners will truly understand. Needless to say Browne's collection further solidified the relationship between fashion and art.
Libertine SS17 Ready-To-Wear – Monday 12th September 2016
God save the Queen! Libertine's SS17 collection consisted of a tribute to the anarcho-punk days that took our nation by storm in the mid-1970s, Bob Marley and other key culturally influential figures in society. It was the former that particularly caught my attention as it evoked nostalgic memories of my days at secondary school when I carried out a project on the British punk movement in textiles (I still have my final piece). The show was littered with prints of Liz herself, Union Jacks, neon rhinestones, hot pink fur and jackets embezzled with non-conformist slogans, all calling into question the conventional idea of beauty. Libertine is known for its creativity and this collection was no exception, reigniting the fire in the heart of any former punk.
Coach SS17 Ready-To-Wear – Tuesday 13th September 2016
Stuart Vever's Spring collection was the polar opposite to his preppy fall 2016 collection. This grungy, archaic look was unlike anything presented by the brand before and I have never really given the brands previous collections much recognition. It was a bold move but nonetheless a successful one, demonstrating the fluidity and diversity of the brand. Non-conformity to traditional values of beauty is a reoccurring theme of this season and this gritty, edgy collection complete with a runway peppered with automobile relics and destruction clearly received the memo. With multitudes of leather, silk, mesh there appeared a tribute to the 90s, along with a tributes to the collections muse Elvis Presley after the brand successfully acquired the rights from the singer's estate. This collection also saw the return of the creepers, these iconic shoes made a re-appearance in 2010/11 and much to the dismay of my mother I jumped on the bandwagon and strutted round town in a pair of black suede creepers. I doubt I will dig them back out now they have graced the runway once again, I'm just grateful that this proves I wasn't completely delusional since they have been given recognition on the runway. Whilst, I love admiring the art of fashion, I love it even more when a I come across a collection that is artistic but also extremely wearable and its safe to say the Vever's spring collection has achieved such a balance. My favourite pieces from the collection being the silk embroidered bomber and the soft pink fur coat (as you will learn I love jackets and coats and I believe you can never have enough).
Altuzarra SS17 Ready-To-Wear – Sunday 11th September 2016
Coach was not the only brand distancing itself from the norm in regards to its previous collections, Altuzarra followed suit. The SS17 collection was worlds away from its normal sharp business-like attire with this fun, youthful collection, full of bright, vibrant colours, flamingo style dresses and skirts and snakeskin blazers embroidered with varying mediterrian fruits. The retro '80s style hoops dangling besides the models perfectly symmetrical faces further fuelled the fun and playful theme. This collection reminded me of holidays in Spain and made me want to jet off to some exotic destination for a bit of fun in the sun.
Monique Lhuillier SS17 Ready-To-Wear -Tuesday 13th September 2016
This collection is bound to make any girl lucky enough to own a piece feel like a princess with the candy pink colour scheme, the bellowing ball gowns sprinkled with silver heart embroidery here and there and the sequins, one must never forget the sequins! I hope this elegant collection will incorporate its way into the next award season, these dresses would be a perfect accompaniment to any red carpet and golden statute. They epitomise Hollywood glamour and I will be gravely disappointed if they are a no show at the coming award season.
It is clear that NYFW had a lot to offer from gothic, grungy get-ups to fiesta attire to elegant ball gowns, and I can only hope London, Milan and Paris will match NY by offering an equal amount of diversity.
THE BEST OF FASHION MONTH SS18 October 7, 2017
THE BEST OF NYFW SS18 September 15, 2017
SUMMER IN THE CITY September 11, 2017
GUESS WHO'S BACK July 22, 2017
THE BEST OF PARIS AND MILAN AW17 March 13, 2017
THE BEST RED-CARPET LOOKS AT THE OSCARS 2017 February 27, 2017
THE BEST OF LFW AW17 February 24, 2017
THE BEST OF NYFW FW17 February 18, 2017
Well hello there! My name is Emily! When I've not got my nose in a hideously long textbook, I'm likely to have it in a copy of the latest Vogue, or busy getting square eyes. And when I'm not being a hermit I can be found exploring and soaking up all the culture the British Isles (and beyond) has to offer. In this blog I will be sharing my views on the latest fashion news and trends and I will be sharing my recent adventures!
View @Emily_Rose95's profile on Twitter
View @smilingsmyfavourite's profile on Instagram


text:
Toponímia:
 Rogers (Arkansas)
 Rogers (Dakota del Nord)
 Rogers (Minnesota)
 Rogers (Nebraska)
 Rogers (Ohio)
 Rogers (Texas)
 Rogers Arena, pavelló esportiu a la ciutat de Vancouver (Colúmbia Britànica, Canadà)
 Biografies:
 Carl Rogers (1902 - 1987), psicòleg clínic estatunidenc
 Charlie Rogers, pilot de motociclisme anglès
 Ginger Rogers (Independence, Missouri, 1911 - Santa Monica, Califòrnia, 1995), actriu, ballarina i cantant nord-americana
 Jessie Rogers
 Kenny Rogers (1938 - 2020), cantant de música country estatunidenc
 Michael Rogers, ciclista australià
 Richard Rogers (1933 - 2021), arquitecte italià nacionalitzat britànic
 Roland Rogers (West Bromwich, Staffordshire, 1847 - Bangor, Gal·les, 1927), compositor anglès
 Simon Rogers (Reading, Regne Unit, 1967), periodista anglès
 Will Rogers (Oolagh, Oklahoma, 1879- Point Barrow, Alaska, 1935), comediant i humorista nord-americà d'origen cherokee
 Miscel·lània:
 Comissió Rogers, comissió presidencial estatunidenca formada per investigar l'accident del transbordador espacial Challenger del 1986.
 Rogers Cup, torneig de tennis sobre pista dura que es disputa anualment al Canadà

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


lies the small Afrata beach. Small is beautiful!
Two taverns, Tamarisk trees, chairs and umbrellas, the pebble beach and especially the crystal clear water promise carefree swimming pleasure at Afrata beach.
Signpost in the village Afrata, leading to the beach.
Since the bay is really quite small, it might be better to avoid the weekends where of course many locals visit this idyllic place.
The beach is well signposted from the village Afrata, from where it is about 700 m by paved road through a canyon to the bay.


The Secret Life of Pets is a comedy about the lives that pets lead after their human companions leave for school or work each day. The animation follows Max (Louis C.K.) a rescue dog who's convinced that he's the centre of owner Katie's (Ellie Kemper) universe, finds his ideal relationship shattered when she brings home another rescue – a giant, unruly mongrel named Duke. The reluctant canine duo soon finds themselves on the scary streets of New York.
They have to set aside their differences to fight off a fluffy, yet evil and cunning bunny named Snowball (Kevin Hart) who's building an army of abandoned pets to overtake the humans and at the same time, escape from the men at the pound who are constantly trying to catch them, all this and making it home before Katie returns at dinnertime. The Secret Life of Pets has its home entertainment release on December 7th and to celebrate we've got TEN DVD copies to give away.
To enter just fill out the form below. Competition closes December 7th at 10pm AEDT.


I'm on business writing a essay Icahn estimates the value of his latest offer at $15.50 to$18 per share. But for his proposal to be put forward forconsideration by Dell shareholders, he must first succeed inhaving Michael Dell's offer voted down and then win enoughshareholder support to replace the members of Dell's board withhis own nominees.
buy essay papers cheap Anglo's departure dealt a sharp blow to the ambitious planto build an open-pit mine in Alaska's unspoiled Bristol Bayregion, at a time when investors are increasingly cautious aboutplowing cash into building expensive new mines.
abortion research paper A stampede pushes through a crowd of runners during the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona, Spain. Scenes like this could be more common in the U.S. when the Great Bull Run events begin in August.


Beckett's first Halloween = Hot Mess!!!
at the pediatrician again with another ear infection.
I'm assuming we are well on our way to tubes.
He literally slept a total of MAYBE 6 hours in the span of 3 days.
but I'm sure I'm approaching a scary level.
tried on his Halloween costume to make sure it fit.
This is my sick child on Friday night before the fever began.
and totally eats the floor!
See this 'padded' costume with the huge mane he has on??
covered with fabric: His FACE!!
the sound DOES come out and it echoes around the house, it's so intense.
he now has a shiner to go along with it.
I'm getting no award for mom of the year, I'm aware!
for a total of maybe 45 minutes at most.
we packed it up and headed to the house.
Next year, my little lion!
Next year, we'll have a fun Halloween!!


text:
JAN KOSKI
Jan, 38 years, started his karting career as a driver and went through all categories from cadets till ICA. In 1999 he ended his driving career just to start next one as a mechanic. After many years as a freelance mechanic, Jan joined one of the most successful private karting teams in the world, Ward Racing Team.
In Ward Racing Team, Jan started as a mechanic and ended up being the Head of Data, playing one of the main roles in the team during their several wins, i.e KFJ European Championship in 2015 (Christian Lundgaard) and WSK Super Masters in 2016 (Travisanutto).
After many successful years in Ward Racing Team, Jan decided to start his own team. In 2017 Koski Motorsport was born. And already in 3 full seasons, team have achieved 4 National Championship medals and an international win.
Koski Motorsport offers full range of karting services for main categories. Team facilities and the know how are top of it's range, which offers the drivers a best possible base to achive the best possible result in karting.
© 2022 Koski Motorsport
Design: Studio Tinto


LE FRANC represents a serious attempt to apply American grading standards to French coins, and assign realistic corresponding market values. It is no secret that a great number of French coins are of greater rarity in mint state than similar coins of other countries. Le FRANC endeavors to provide market prices for French coins in choice mint state that were simply unavailable (when available at all) at the unrealistic levels listed in previous publications. It is hoped that the high prices listed for French coins in choice uncirculated condition will inspire the domestic French market to be more discerning in their grading. This book is an open challenge to French numismatists for them to examine modern (say, coins of Louis XIII to date) coins with American eyes. This is not to say that they should take American certified grading as an absolute standard. On the contrary, such grading has been shown to be wildly erratic and undependable. Collectors should learn for themselves how to grade as best they can, and use their own eyes.
For years, many American collectors of French coins have baffled French dealers with their seemingly arbitrary grading whims. The reason for this lies not with any fault in the French, but rather with numismatics in the United States. Very few American coins are of real absolute rarity. The vast American collector market focuses, therefore, on quality. The large number of American coins minted permits the American collector to be very selective: he is very demanding when it comes to grade of preservation. To call a coin "nice uncirculated" isn't enough. The American collector wants to know: not just how nice, but exactly how nice. This has led to the numerical mint state grading system which has caused so much confusion in other countries. Many French coins are so rare in high grade that not enough of them have been on the market for there to be a set price structure. A coin described as "SUP à FDC" could well be the finest anyone has seen in years of a given issue, and therefore no one in France asks if it would be the equivalent of an American AU-58 or an American MS-65. The fact is, however, that it does matter.
The world is getting smaller, and contact among numismatists of all countries will only increase. French coins are enormously popular in the United States and Japan, as well as to a lesser degree in Germany, China and Russia. The huge price swings in American coins, depending on their grade, is practically universally known. These price swings do not yet exist in the domestic market for French coins. It is only a question of time before this situation changes. The internet has been a factor of great influence here. Our own site, www.HA.com, gets close to one million unique visits each month. Collecting is not a small niche any more. People can follow our auctions live in real time from anywhere in the world now, and we no longer the only ones in numismatics to offer this. Even mail bid auctions, such as those of our French colleagues at cgb.fr, offer detailed scans of coins so that informed collectors can form accurate images of coins without necessarily having viewed them personally before bidding. Being able to discern small differences in quality is no longer exclusively the domain of those who have viewed an auction in person, although that is always the best of all alternatives.
The market in the United States has already adapted its own standards to its pricing for high quality French coins. Small increases in the quality of an uncirculated coin can mean a large increase in that coin's price. French dealers will note this and take advantage of it, if only for purely economic reasons. French collectors will soon do likewise, or else watch their best coins go into collections in other countries. This book, by French numismatists familiar with American coins and the American coin market, is an attempt to bring the future of French numismatics a little closer. Its intention is to put the domestic French market on an equal footing with its American counterpart and show, to quote Marvin Gaye, "what's goin' on."


Setting expectations for your children is one of the most vital aspect of parenting. It helps to keep a track of what is important for you, the family and facilitates a standard toward which your children can progress. It is something that will help guide and mold them but at the same time, keep in mind that a coin has two sides to it and your expectations can actually become double-edged swords. They could be good or bad depending on what type of expectations you set. Unfortunately, today's modern world is a rat race of high competition and popular culture has led to parents setting unachievable expectations for their children.
We as parents often expect our children to get straight A's in all subjects or expect them to always win in sports without even assessing their abilities. But what you should understand is that you cannot really control your child's capabilities nor know the full potential of it till they actually grow up and do something in that field. Instead, you should motivate them to do their best and guide them toward the right path.
Setting an expectation of getting the best grade or putting an emphasis on winning will send the wrong message to your children that you value results over achievements. This will only hinder the efforts your child is putting toward achieving the best results as the focus will be on winning and not doing their best which could result in winning.
As a parent, it is inevitable for you to have some expectations of your child. So, why not establish those expectations in collaboration with your children? This way your child will also have the ownership and will not be pushed into doing something.
You can talk to your children, understand their difficulties and help them toward being successful. Share with them the value of effort and perseverance, how it will help them achieve their goals and objectives and have control over their life.
If you always expect your children to be happy and co-operative, then you are up for disappointment as they are not always going to listen to you. Nobody is perfect, so your expectations should be made keeping in mind the child's physical and intellectual abilities which will keep both you and your child happy.
There is no magical formula for parenting and everybody out there learns through experience. Develop reasonable expectations and lay the groundwork. Then leave the rest to your child. After all, they are the ones who have to live their life to the best of their potential.
Let your children know the rules. If you have a rule that really matters to you, convey it clearly. It's ok to give your children some personal space and independence. Once you have investigated with your children and framed the right expectations, it is important to convey it to them over and over. Giving children the authority to question your expectation is a way to encourage them to think and set their own expectations. Be ready to help them understand why you want them to do something. It will make things a lot easier, for you to set an expectation and for them to follow.
No one said parenting is easy. Keep your expectations simple; be realistic and encourage your children to be the best in whatever they wish to be. You will survive this journey!


Some of the prettiest climbers ever!! These multi star ear climbers hug your earlobe up and crate a constellation look.
*Sterling silver, sterling silver with yellow gold fill and sterling silver with rose gold fill.


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Silicon Valley Energy Drinks0pgJw2BTJ2020-01-04T07:31:05+00:00
Austin, the Texas capital, lies at the point where the Colorado River leaves the Edwards Plateau. The second biggest state capital in America, Austin was founded in 1893 and named after Stephen F. Austin, the Father of Texas." Today, Austin is a vital cultural, governing and educational center, house to the Texas University, the Lyndon B, and Bullock Texas State History Museum.
Here are the best things to do in Austin Texas and Austin Texas get Help energy drink:
The State Capitol and Visitors Center
Done in 1888, the State Capital and its twenty-two acres of monuments and grounds are houses to the office of the State Governor and the Chambers of Texas Legislature. Protected as a National Historic Landmark, the building shocks with its dimensions, at 308 feet tall, it ranks as the 6th tallest state capitol, taller even than the American Capital in Washington, DC. Visitors can stroll park through the tree-lined path known as the Great Walk and admire the different monuments, including the Vietnam War monument, Texas African American History Memorial, a bronze statue of a Texas Ranger, and even a miniature State that was presented in 1951 by the Boy scouts of USA.
Zilker Metropolitan Park Attractions
Austin's most famous green area, the 351-acre Zilker Park is a favorite recreation place that sits alongside Lady Bird and provides many things to do. The parks grassy expanses and picnic places are perfect for lazy afternoons, but there are also many recreational facilities for the public to enjoy, adding riverside walking trails, a disc golf course, volleyball courts, and Ziker Playscape, a big playground with its own section designed for children aged 2 to 5 years.
Video Game Cafe
In Austin, many people enjoy playing video games like Minecraft, Fortnite, Gods of War, World of WarCraft and many more. One thing to consider is getting the best energy drink to make you the best gamer you can be. Check more out to see why.
Named after the Present Lyndon Johnson wife, Lady Bird Lake is actually a section of the Colorado River that covers 415 acres and has become one of the city's best recreational places. Although lined with residential and hotels complexes, the majority of its shoreline is open to the public, with miles of amazing trails for cyclists and pedestrians, including the Roy Butler and Ann Hike and Bike Trail and Pedestrian Bridge, which crosses the river and links downtown Austin with the southern shore.
Austin Steam Train Association
A wonderful venue for all the train lovers in the family, and especially the children! The Austin Steam Train provides the chance for every person to ride on a true vintage passenger train. The depot itself is placed just twenty miles away in Cedar Park, and operates on the weekends all through the year.
Silicon Valley Help Energy Drink Near Me


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Stewart Father's Day Powwow attracts thousands from across the West
Claire Cudahy
The annual event drew in Stewart Indian School alumni from around the country.
Photo: Claire Cudahy / First Nation's Focus
Joseph, age 8, from Bishop, Calif., has been a gourd dancer for 2 years. He's seen here getting ready on June 16 at the powwow with his grandmother, Charlene Redner.
Photo: Alejandra Rubio / First Nation's Focus
Lead dancers circle the arena during the June 17 grand entry at the Stewart Indian School Father's Day Powwow.
The American Indian Tourism Conference named the Stewart Father's Day Powwow the 2017-18 Best Cultural Heritage Experience.
A dancer looks on during the final session on Sunday, June 17.
The powwow welcomed dancers of all ages.
Hundreds of dancers, drummers, artists and more attended this year's three-day event.
Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval attended the Stewart Father's Day Powwow on June 16, 2018; it marks the first time a sitting governor attended the annual event.
The dancers dressed in colorful Native regalia.
CARSON CITY, Nev. — Over the June 15-17 weekend, thousands of Native Americans converged on the Stewart Indian School in Carson City for the annual Stewart Father's Day Powwow.
"I thought it went really well. It was well attended, and I was very thankful that the weather held," said Sherry Rupert, executive director of the Nevada Indian Commission. "I heard a lot of people saying they had prayed for good weather and for the storm to miss us, and it did. I thought that was pretty amazing."
Over the three-day event, Rupert estimates around 3,000 people attended the powwow.
Among the attendees on June 16 was Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval.
"This is the first time a sitting governor has come to the powwow. It was great to hear him talk about his support for the powwow as well as Native American people in general," said Rupert. "We honored him with an honor dance, and he did a round dance with everybody."
The weekend was not only a chance to celebrate generations of Native American traditions, but also an opportunity for alumni from Stewart Indian School to reconnect.
Tony Bejay and his wife drove 14 hours from Tuba City, Arizona, to attend the powwow for the 12th time. Bejay graduated from Stewart Indian School in 1965 after eight years.
"I don't come back for the powwow. I say to my family, 'I'm going home,'" said Bejay. "I had the best years here. I learned a lot of things about being independent, being responsible. That's the thing I really appreciate from my time here."
This year's powwow also gave alumni the chance to see plans for the new cultural center and museum coming to the campus.
"We had on display the renderings of what the exhibit design will be, so our staff was able to visit with alumni to get input into those exhibits and their ideas on what experiences and stories should be shared in their cultural center," explained Rupert.
The Nevada Indian Commission was allocated $4.5 million in 2017 to renovate the school's administration building into the museum and the first Stewart Post Office into a welcome center.
A traditional blessing ceremony will be held at the school on July 11.


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Q: Google Picasa Uploaded video direct download link via API I'm using Picasa API to upload videos:
https://developers.google.com/picasa-web/

I'm able to get links to streaming in this format:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gJ36JMaguCcEdlVXOs5YP7huwtqbfp96sSHXLBvdnaE=m18

Is it possible to receive somehow direct link to download this video? Although there is no way for downloading Picasa Web, I can download movie from Google Photos (it's automatically synchronizes with Picasa) using this page:
https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/3Jmth_jxsN-NpNn_QmWXcNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0

But I can't catch how it's downloading, because it's using some random token as download link.

A:
You can't currently download original video files. However, you can
  download the FLV video stream or the mp4 video stream by using the
  URLs from the <media:content> video elements provided in the photo
  entry or feed. There's one <media:content> element for each video
  stream.

https://developers.google.com/picasa-web/docs/2.0/developers_guide_protocol#PostVideo Under limitations

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Piesau è una frazione della città tedesca di Neuhaus am Rennweg.

Storia
Il 1º gennaio 2019 il comune di Piesau venne soppresso e aggregato alla città di Neuhaus am Rennweg.

Note

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

Neuhaus am Rennweg
Frazioni della Turingia
Comuni della Turingia soppressi


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Sedan station (French: Gare de Sedan) is a railway station serving the town of Sedan, Ardennes department in northeastern France. It is situated on the Mohon–Thionville railway. The station is served by regional trains towards Charleville-Mézières, Reims and Longwy, and by high-speed trains towards Paris.

See also

 List of SNCF stations in Grand Est

References

Railway stations in Ardennes (department)


SCARD helps to relieve distress amongst people who have lost a loved one or have been injured or affected by drunk or reckless driving. We do this by providing emotional and practical support through a telephone helpline, support groups, personal support system and offering free counselling at our offices.
Our national helpline is manned by real people 365 days a year from 9am to 9pm, including all Bank Holidays.
We can arrange a personally planned support system including sourcing counselling and arranging contact with other bereaved people who have been through similar experiences. We offer email contact for those who don't feel ready to speak.
In 1994 we set up an annual remembrance service which now takes place throughout the country – please contact us for the one nearest to you. SCARD Oakleaf Memorial Service, the largest service in the north, is held annually at Leeds Minster.
SCARD also works closely with its sister charity CADD (Campaign against Drink Driving) to build awareness of the dangers on our roads through campaigns for changes to the current legislations relating to road incidents. We also deliver educational, awareness-building workshops to groups and individuals.


A man's admissions, I'm bored, cookies that taste like brownies, and other fun stuff!
Some more yumminess on Today's Mama!
Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Slow Cooker Meal Plan for an Entire Month!
Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Use Pita as Pizza Crust for a Quick and Easy Meal!


While checking out new condos in Stoney Creek, why not take a closer look at King's Park Condominiums? We have the modern living space you're looking for with plenty of room to enjoy the finer things in life. Our upscale condos are conveniently located close to all of the community amenities you appreciate.
One of the most important factors to look at before you sign up to be a member of a Naples boat club is their 'member-to-boat' ratio. Can they guarantee that there will always boats available to meet member demand? Freedom Boat Club can. Learn more about how to join out boat club on our website. You can also call us at 888.781.7363.


Dua for 1st Rajab: "La Ilaha illallaho wahdahu la sharika lahu lahul-mulko walahul-hamdo yoh-yi wa yo mito wahuwa hay-yil-la yamuto biyaaadie-hil -khair wahuwa ala kulle shai-een kadir, Allahumma la man-a. le maa aat-taa, wa la mua-tiya, le maa man-aata, wa layunfeo zuljadde min-kal jaddo.
3-Fast -15th day of Rajab Ghusl- bath -for cleansing all sins- pray 10 rakah like 1st and with Dua : "Illahan-wahedan, ahadan samadan wa faradaow wa witran lam yattakhiz sahebataow wa la waladan."
5- Fast -30th day of Rajab Ghusl- bath -for cleansing all sins - Pray 10 rakah like 1st day t with Dua - ast day of Rajab: "Allahumma sallai ala Sayidina Mohammadiuw wa all hittaherin, wa la hawla kuwwata ilia billa-hil Aliyil Azim. "
After reciting the above 30 rakah, pray for whatever your requirements. Insha-Allah these will be answered, and on the day of resurrection, there will be 70 trenches between you and Hell and each of these trenches will be so wide it would take 500 years to cross one. In addition each rakat has the reward of 1000 rakats.
Reference to Fasting in Rajab -If someone has fasted for three days during the sacred months, on a Thursday, a Friday and a Saturday, Allah will credit him with the worshipful service [ibadah] of 900 years!
Fasting in Rajab ones drinks from a River of Paradise called Rajab Only for those who observed fasting in Rajab also a palace for Only those whose frequntly fasted in Rajab.
In order to enter Ramadhaan in the best possible manner, one has to prepare himself in the months of Rajab and Shabaan. It has been said that Rajab is the month to sow seeds (good actions), Shabaan is the month in which we should water those seeds (with tears of sorrow) and Ramadhaan is the month in which we reap the harvest.
….The next category, the name and nature of which are somewhat surprising, is the category of the rajabiyyun or 'men of Rajab', who number forty. They are so named because 'the spiritual state ( hal ) which corresponds to their station (maqam) is manifest in them only in Rajab, from the moment of the appearance of the end of the lunar month.
Source: [Al-Suyuti in his Al-Jami'].
How To Perform The Prayer Fast on the first Thursday of Rajab.
........" It is most important, however, that none of you should neglect the First Friday in Rajab, for it is the night that the angels call the Night of [the Granting of] Wishes [Lailat ar-Ragha'ib]. This is because, by the time the first third of the night has elapsed, there will not be a single angel still at large in the heavens, nor in any region of the earth bar one. They will all be gathered together in the Ka'ba and the area immediately surrounding it. Allah (Exalted is He) will condescend to notice that they have assembled there, and He will say: "My angels, ask Me for whatever you wish!" Their response to this will be: "Our Lord, the request we wish to make is that You grant forgiveness to those who faithfully keep the fast in Rajab," whereupon Allah (Exalted is He) will tell them: "That I have already done!"
" No one will go unrewarded if he fasts during the daytime on Thursday, the first Thursday in Rajab.
In the evening between Maghrib and `Isha, perform 12 units (Rak'at) of prayer, in two's (i.e. two at a time). In each unit recite: Once Sura-al-Fateha; three times Sura-al-Qadr; and 12 times Sura-al-Tawhid (Qul huwallahu).
Salawat (while sitting) : "Allahumma Salli `Ala Muhammad, Annabiyyil Ummiyyi, Wa `Ala Aalihi"
Tasbih (in Sajdah): "Subbuhun Quddusun, Rabbul Mala`ikati Warruh"
All-Glorious, All-Holy,n Lord of the Angels and of the Spirit!
Istighfar (while sitting): "Rabbigh-Fir, War-ham, Watajawaz `Amma Ta'alamu, Innaka antal `aliyyul A`a-zam"
Tasbih (again in Sajdah): "Subbuhun Quddusun, Rabbul Mala'ikati Warruh"
Then seek your needs, they will be granted, Inshallah.
" By Him in whose Hand is my soul [wa 'lladhi nafsi bi-yadih], I assure you that no servant [of His], whether manservant ['abd] or maidservant [ama], will ever perform this particular salat-prayer without Allah forgiving all the sins of which that individual has ever been guilty, even if they are like the flecks of foam upon the ocean, as numerous as all the grains of sand, as heavy as the mountains, and as many as the drops of rain and the leaves on all the trees. On the Day of Resurrection [Yawm al-Qiyama], he will be allowed to intercede on behalf of seven hundred members of his family."
On the first night that worshipful servant spends in his grave, the reward for this salat-prayer will come to visit him [in the shape of a human being], with a cheerful face and an eloquent tongue. "O my dear friend," it will say to him, "rejoice in the good tidings, for I am here to tell you that you have been delivered from every severe affliction!" This will prompt the servant to exclaim: "Who are you? By Allah, I swear that I have never seen a man with a better-looking face than yours. Never have I heard a form of speech more charming than your way of speaking, and never have I smelled a fragrance more delightful than that of your perfume." So then it will tell him: "O my dear friend, I am the reward for that salat-prayer, the one you performed on whichever night it was, in whichever month it was, in whichever year it was. I have come here tonight in order to fulfill your request, to entertain you in your solitary state, and to banish your loneliness from you. Later on, when the trumpet is sounded, I shall provide you with shade to protect your head from the scorching heat on the Fields of the Resurrection ['Arasat al-Qiyama]. So rejoice in the good tidings, for you will never be deprived of the blessing that comes from your Master [Mawla]."
There are five nights in which invocation (du`a) is not turned back: the night of Jum`a, the first night of Rajab, the night of mid-Sha`ban, and the two nights of `Eid.
As for the name ash-Shahru'l-Mutahhir [The Purifying Month], it is so called because it purifies [yutahhiru] the person who fasts in the course of it, ridding him of his sins and offenses.
The month of Rajab is a glorious month indeed. If someone has fasted for one day in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of a thousand years.
If someone has fasted for two days in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of two thousand years.
If someone has fasted for three days in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of three thousand years.
If someone has fasted for seven days in Rajab, all the seven gates of Hell [Jahannam] wil be locked to make sure that he stays out of it.
If someone has fasted for fifteen days in Rajab, all his bad deeds will be replaced by good deeds, and a crier will call out from heaven above: "Allah has now forgiven you, so use the opportunity to set about good work anew!"
Rajab is Allah's month, Sha'ban is my month and Ramadan is the month of my Community.
In the Garden of Paradise there is a river called Rajab, whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. If someone has fasted for one day during the month of Rajab, Allah will let him quench his thirst by drinking from that river.
Anab ibn Malik (may Allah be well pleased with him) is reported as having said: "In the Garden of Paradise there is a palace that no one may enter, with the exception of someone who makes a frequent practice of fasting during the month of Rajab."
If someone has fasted for three days during the sacred months, on a Thursday, a Friday and a Saturday, Allah will credit him with the worshipful service [ibada] of nine hundred years!
If someone keeps the fast on the 27th day of Rajab, he will be credited with the same reward as that which is earned by fasting for sixty months.
It was on the 27th day of Rajab, we are told, that Gabriel first came down to invest the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) with his Messengership [Risala].
Rajab contains a very special day and a very special night. If someone fasts during that day, and keeps vigil throughout that night, he will be entitled to a reward like the one that would be earned by a person who fasted for a hundred years, and who keeps vigil throughout all the nights in that period.
The reference must be to the 27th of Rajab, that being the day on which our Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) was first dispatched to embark upon his mission.
Rajab is one of the sacred months and its days are inscribed on the sixth gate of Heaven. So, if a man has fasted during one day of this month, and if he has kept his fast completely clean through obedient devotion [taqwa] to Allah (Almighty and Glorious is He), the heavenly gate will acquire the faculty of speech, and the day itself will also acquire the faculty of speech, and the two of them will say: "O Lord, forgive him!" But if he has failed to make his fast complete through obedient devotion to Allah (Exalted is He), they will make no such plea for him to be forgiven. They will say, or he will be told by some other voice: "Your own lower self [nafs] has betrayed you!"
note:- Wusta- Middle. Salatul Wusta refers to the middle prayer, which is the 'Asr prayer (the third of the five compulsory daily prayers), for those whose day begins at dawn. However, some say it refers to the Fajr prayer. This is because the Muslims follow a lunar calendar: the first day of a new lunar month is only determined when the new moon is sighted shortly after sunset. Therefore the Muslim day begins at Maghreb, and the first prayer of that new day is Maghreb, which makes the third (middle) prayer Fajr.


There are many ways to protect your fine jewelry from loss and damage. The following list includes the most effective options available. It allows you to prevent something catastrophic from happening to your precious jewels and fine metals.
Be mindful of how and where you store it.
You may want to invest in a safety deposit box or home safe for your precious jewels. It's important to know that jewelry with lots of value needs extra protection. It should also be laid on a silk or satin cloth to prevent it from becoming tangled or damaged while being stored.
Have it appraised by someone who is certified and qualified to do.
Bring it to Westwood Jewelers where its value can be determined. We're professionals who have experience appraising jewelry. We'll make sure that you know precisely what your necklace or ring is worth before you leave our store. You'll then be able to submit the proper documentation to the insurance company if you choose to insure your jewels.
Purchase a policy that protects it in the event it is destroyed or stolen.
Working with an insurance company to cover your collection is very important. It protects your investment against the unthinkable. If you were to lose everything in a catastrophic event or have your home broken into, your collection would be covered. You may not be able to recover the physical item, but you can recoup its value.
Repair jewelry whenever it starts to get worn.
Check clasps, hooks, fasteners, and bands to make sure they are snug and not damaged. That way, you don't learn the hard way by losing your jewelry off your body while you're away from home. If a piece needs to be repaired, bring it to Westwood Jewelers so it can be restored to like new condition. You'll be able to continue to enjoy it that way without worrying about losing it.
Replace missing stones or choose a new setting for jewelry you no longer wear.
If you inherited an heirloom piece of jewelry from a relative or good friend but it doesn't serve you in the condition or setting it is currently in, we can help. Replacing stones or creating a setting that better accommodates a stone is something we specialize in. We get to know you so we can create jewelry for you that you're proud to wear. Having jewels sit in a jewelry box or safety deposit box without being used isn't ideal. Get more use out of your collection by having it created into something new and amazing.
Your jewelry collection is rich with sentimental and appraised value. Do what you can to protect your investment by being mindful of the tips listed above. That way, you don't need to worry about losing or damaging your necklaces, earrings, bracelets or rings. Having enough coverage to protect what you own is ideal which is why it's so important to have your jewelry appraised. It allows you to protect your collection for its entire worth.


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Morning Becomes Eclectic Blend (Ongoing Subscription)
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Deliver Every 1 Week 2 Weeks 3 Weeks 4 Weeks 6 Weeks 8 Weeks
We are all in this together!
KCRW creates and curates a unique mix of content centered around music discovery, NPR news, cultural exploration, informed public affairs . . . and now coffee! KCRW, similar to Caffe Luxxe, is driven by the spirit of Los Angeles and delivers to diverse, curious communities around the corner and around the world.
We've partnered with our long-time friends at KCRW to create their own blend of coffee which is instantly global (this world blend originates from Latin America, Africa, and Asia). Listen to Morning Becomes Eclectic and enjoy a cup of coffee inspired by your favorite show! Featuring flavor notes of bittersweet chocolate, a hint of crème brûlée, anise, and subtle sweet woody tones reminiscent of a bourbon cask, it's well balanced yet eclectic.
Even better, Caffe Luxxe will be donating 10% of all proceeds from the sale of this coffee directly to KCRW. This is an ONLINE ONLY exclusive and available as a subscription (ongoing, 1-month, 2-month, 3-month) or as an individual purchase; support your coffee habit and know that you will also be supporting KCRW.
Whether you brew it as espresso or as a drip coffee, Morning Becomes Eclectic may become your every day staple.
We are proud of our partnership with KCRW and you can find Caffe Luxxe coffee in their headquarters and special events where we always donate 100% of proceeds back to KCRW.
Visit kcrw.com to learn more about this community service of Santa Monica College.
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Nice Cocks: In These Malaysian Beauty Pageants, The Models Are Poultry
By Adele Peters 1 minute Read
They might seem like unlikely runway models, but in villages across Malaysia, some chickens spend their lives competing in beauty pageants. Bred for good looks and the ability to strut, Serama cocks are displayed on small stages and judged for their feathers and poses while their owners cheer them on. It turns out that the chickens are good print models as well: In a new book and series of prints called Cocks, Malaysian photographer Ernest Goh traveled around the country taking closeups of the birds.
"I wanted to explore working with animals that are so common that they are often overlooked," Goh says. "The chickens were perfect candidates."
About once a week, a chicken pageant happens somewhere in the country. Several things make a particular cock pretty enough for the pageant circuit. "The colors of their feathers, their behavior, and their grooming all play a part," Goh explains. Once on a judging platform, the birds just do what they naturally do. "The chickens are not trained in any way," he says. "They instinctively pose and strut when on a table."
Goh hopes the photographs might help more people start to see the bird as something more than just dinner. "I want to simply offer a different view on what animals are," he says. "That they have more character and personality than we know."
Ideas Newsletter


I need to convert something like 3/4 cup to metric, or 1/2 teaspoon. Does this site not do fractions or something?
Anonymous wrote: I need to convert something like 3/4 cup to metric, or 1/2 teaspoon. Does this site not do fractions or something?


"This performance is a hypnotising trip. With an intimate club setting, which makes you come even closer to the dancers than in the original depiction, this special edition is really something to look forward to! "
We Are Public's ongoing cultural experiment Front Row takes Choreographer Arno Schuitemaker to OT301 for a one-off special edition of his hypnotising dance performance If You Could See Me Now (2017). In collaboration with Front Row, Arno adapted his acclaimed performance and created a compelling dance piece made for the dark and gritty club setting of OT301.
ATTENTION: doors open at 19.45, no access after start.


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Before too long the business was growing and there wasn't enough of me to go around so I started to take on some employees to help me. This was wonderful, I was making money while I was wasn't doing the job! YAY!
As I grew, I started building a mini-team. And that wonderful feeling of getting paid for work I wasn't physically doing started to feel not so great.
My phone kept blowing up, sitter after sitter with questions about EVERYTHING!! Bella what should I do, Bella I can't find the leash, Bella is this ok, Bella it's hot outside, Bella, Bella Bella… It never ended! Sound Familiar?!
I couldn't go on like this. I was starting to bring work everywhere with me, there was no time for Bella. All my friends would constantly complain I was never around and when I was I was always putting out a fire and stuck to the phone. They were so right, this business was running me!
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Ráth Meadhbha
Posted on September 16, 2021 by admin - Blog
Ráth Meadhbha is looking a bit run down these days but after 3000 years (best estimates indicate it was constructed in the early Bronze Age: 2000–1500 BC) I suppose that's pretty understandable.
Climb in over the shaky 'geata', slip through the trees and you find yourself in an open field that could be a farming meadow anywhere in Ireland. It's only as you return to the road and notice the wide, almost indistinguishable ditches to either side that you realise you've been standing in the 'lis' of an enormous ráth.
Although the ráth's current name relates to Meadhbh Leathdearg (or Meabh or Cruachan) it's obviously got little connection with the mythological character. It's not clear when that name was assigned but at a guess (without checking) it was around medieval times (at the very least, 1000 years later) when they were just as good at self-promoting as they are in contemporary times.
Tags: Irish folklore, Irish legend, irish mythology
The FREE literary game is live!
Posted on May 10, 2021 by admin - Blog, Folklore/Mythology
Dia Dhaoibh a Chairde/ Hallo Friends!
Welcome to the launch post for Dark Dawn/An Camhaoir Fuilsmeartha.
Through the image link below you'll be transferred to an experimental format literary game relating to the ancient Irish Fianaigeacht – Fenian Cycle – tales (and to some of my own Fionn mac Cumhaill Series books).
At heart, it's the story of a sick warrior who's convinced – against his better judgement – to try and save a tiny settlement. During the story, that warrior must make decisions – influenced by events in his own life – that can change the outcome.
It's a very simple story. A very human story.
The game can be experienced through Irish or through English (or both). Naturally, because they're different languages/cultures, those experiences will differ slightly. When it comes to different cultures, there's no such thing as a 'direct translation'.
This project is one I started three years ago as part of Irish Imbas' ongoing mission to make Gaelic/Irish culture more visible and more understood (and to counter the reams of misinformation relating to Gaelic Irish mythology that pervade the internet). Developed on a shoestring budget, it required a whole new set of skills that I was obliged to learn as I progressed. In that regard, it's also been something of a labour of love. To be honest, although I'm happy with the final product, I'm also a bit relieved I can finally move onto the next creative project.
Please feel free to share the post with whoever you think might be interested. In fact I'd encourage you to do so as there are still plenty of people out there under the illusiton that Irish/Gaelic is a 'fantasy' language. If you're feeling particularly generous, I'd really appreciate an honest summary of your thoughts/feedback, either through the usual Goodreads review mechanism (here or at the end of the game) or directly by email.
But that's enough of the intro. It's time to jump on in. Just click the link through the image below.
Bain sult as! / Enjoy!
Tags: irish adventure, Irish books, irish books based on irish mythology, irish historical fantasy, irish historical fiction, Irish legend, irish mythology, irish warrior
Posted on November 30, 2020 by admin - Blog, My Writing
I'm pleased to announce that nearly all of my books can now be ordered through bookshops anywhere in the world (while recognising many of them are still closed due to the pandemic).
For the last six years or so, there's really been only three paperbacks available in print outside of the Amazon system (Fionn 1, Fionn 2 and Beara 1). That's mainly been due to the administrative complexity and the costs associated with placing books into the Ingram system (that's the company who hold the 'Print-On-Demand' files and supply copies to the bookshops on request). After several years, I finally found time to get this task done. Sheesh!
Anyway, if you order a copy through a local bookshop let me know how it turns out as I'm curious to see how this works in practice from the other side.
Tags: Irish books, irish books based on irish mythology, irish fantasy, Irish fiction, irish historical fantasy, Irish historical fantasy book, irish historical fiction, Irish legend, irish mythology, Irish mythology book, irish warrior
Six Years Ago Today
Posted on February 20, 2020 by admin - Blog, Folklore/Mythology, My Writing
I received one of those social media reminders today that it's been six years since I first published FIONN: Defence of Ráth Bládhma, an anniversary that's triggered some quiet reflection for me.
FIONN 1 was actually the second book I ever published (Beara: Dark Legends being the first). It was my first attempt at producing a genuine (as culturally authentic as I could make it) Irish historical adventure/fantasy novel and, to be honest, I had no idea whether people would like it. I'd never written anything similar before and given my insistence on using Irish cultural concepts and – occasionally – language, I assumed most people would be scared off.
Six years later there are four (by December) books in the series as well as a spin-off series (The Irish Woman Warrior Series) which will have three books by the end of the year. It still amazes me that people buy them, even more so when they leave positive reviews.
When I finish a book, it goes from my head and even a few months I struggle to remember even writing it. I reread this book about two years ago and it was a slightly bizarre experience in that it was actually just like reading a book someone else had written. The weirdest thing was that I really enjoyed it and, overall, I thought it was great (!!?). I'm not really sure what that says about me. People often say you can be your own worst critic but I clearly run the other way.
I'd like to say 'thank you' to all of you who took the time to read this book and a particular thanks to those of you who were kind enough to go so far as to write a review. For any writer that will always be a buzz, no matter how old the book or how many books they've written.
I've always had a clear idea in my head where this series was going (and the Liath Luachra Series of course) and although I'm keen to move onto other projects it feels good to be edging closer to the completion of the story, the characters, the twists and the plots I wanted to reveal. Given the growing interest in a television version, this could of course end up going on in a way or a direction I'd never even envisaged but, to be honest, there are a thousand other things I need/want to do.
I think some stories never end.
Note: The above image shows the development of the cover since my initial amateurish introduction. The current cover is the image seen below.
Tags: books based on irish mythology, Fionn mac Cumhaill, Irish book, Irish books, irish books based on irish mythology, irish fantasy book, irish historical fantasy, Irish historical fantasy book, irish historical fiction, Irish legend
Book News on Irish Mythology – A Summary for 2019
Stories based on Irish mythology and culture have been bowdlerised quite a lot over the last two hundred years or so, often to the point where, now, many people struggle to differentiate genuine Irish history and mythology with commercially-produced "Celtic" fantasy. That's something that, as an Irish fiction writer (non-fiction, on occasion), I'm regularly confronted with. It's also why I'm so pedantic in telling stories that are as historically and culturally authentic as I can make them.
Telling stories based on authentic elements of Irish mythology can be something of an effort, however. Not only do you have to get the history right, you also have to introduce ancient Gaelic concepts into the story in a way that a contemporary audience can (a) understand them and (b) enjoy them. That takes research (a lot), it takes language skills (Irish) and of course, the ability to put a story together in a way that allows those elements to shine.
Creating those kinds of Irish mythological stories was a bit exhausting over 2019, fortunately for all the right reasons. The key reason was the recent sale of the screen option (and the subsequent adaptation) for Liath Luachra: The Grey One which took up a major proportion of my year.
There's still a long path to travel before any decision is made on whether this appears on a screen near you, of course. There will be a post about it all at some stage in the future but, until then, here's a little teaser (ironically, made before we had interest from Hollywood).
But, screenwork aside, here's a little update on the other projects currently taking place.
Book number four in the popular series (the Fionn mac Cumhaill Series) concerns the growing pains of the young Fionn (Demne) who's struggling to solve the mystery of his father's death, supported as always by this three guardians; his aunt – the bandraoi Bodhmhall, the woman warrior Liath Luachra and the eccentric womaniser Fiacail mac Codhna. This story is maturing quietly in our office drawer like a potentially fruitful wine. There are six books in total planned for this series. We had intended to release this volume in December 2019 but, for reasons explained above, this is now delayed until the first half of 2020.
Liath Luachra: The Seeking.
This will be the third in the Irish Woman Warrior Series and follows on directly from book two (Liath Luachra: The Swallowed) with the woman warrior Liath Luachra returned to help a comrade rescue his sister from a mysterious group of raiders. Needless to say, this turns out to be far more complicated than expected.
This book returns to many of the themes and characters in Book 1 but also commences the overlap between this series and the Fionn mac Cumhaill Series. Originally, we had planned three books in total but that's now likely to expand to four.
We're hoping to release this book in the first quarter of 2020. The current cover is undergoing revision so this is a standby cover until its completed.
Dark Dawn:
This is a bit of a trial project I'm currently working on and involves the story of a dying warrior attempting to protect a settlement. The settlement in question is Ráth Bládhma.
Expect to see an announcement on this sometime in the first quarter of 2020.
Despite all the excitement over 2019, we have actually released a few items, mainly the following short stories. Note, however, that these are currently only available through the Irish Imbas website:
While hunting with two children in the depths of the Great Wild, the woman warrior Liath Luachra becomes involved in a pursuit she'd rather have no part of.
Liath Luachra: The Winter Cave
After completing her 'tasking' in the Lonely Lands, the woman warrior Liath Luachra retreats to spend another winter alone in the bleak Luachair valley.
It's by no means certain she'll make it through to Spring.
The Cut:
In ancient Ireland, a mother seeks a boon of an old lover, now the most ferocious and feared chieftain in the land.
Probably one of the most well-known stories from the ancient early Irish literature, the fascinating tale of Labhraidh Loingseach (Labhraidh is pronounced 'Lowry' in English), has never been accurately portrayed for a contemporary audience.
This, then, is the story of the mythical Irish chieftain, the founding ancestor of Na Laighin (a major tribe in Ireland's south-east for which the province of Leinster is named) and the man to which a very strange attribute is associated.
After a year's hard slog, I'm certainly ready for a break. In the meantime, all our books can be obtained through THE IRISH IMBAS BOOK SHOP of course. Updates on the latest releases will be made available through our newsletter Vóg (last one for 2019 will be end of November).
Tags: ancient ireland, irish books based on irish mythology, irish fantasy, irish historical fantasy, irish historical fiction, Irish legend, irish mythology
Important Locations in Ireland for Fionn mac Cumhaill and the Fenian Cycle
Posted on October 4, 2019 by admin - Blog, Folklore/Mythology, Uncategorized
The original stories from the Fenian Cycle (the stories of Fionn mac Cumhaill and the warrior band mistakenly called Na Fianna) are believed to have first originated in Leinster (that's on the eastern side of Ireland if you're unfamiliar with it) which is why so many of the Fionn mac Cumhaill stories take place in that region. Over the subsequent centuries however, as the character's popularity increased, professional storytellers from other parts of the country also started to adapt the tales for their local audiences and often incorporated nearby topographical features that these audiences would be familiar with. That's why, today, you'll struggle to find anywhere in Ireland that doesn't have at least some kind of reference to Fionn or the Fianna.
The twelfth century Macgnímartha Finn (The Boyhood Tales of Fionn) on which the Fionn mac Cumhaill Series is based, retains those very strong links to Leinster. Here's a map showing some of the key locations:
Ráth Bládhma: As a child, Fionn (or Demne, as he was originally known) was reared by two female guardians (Bodhmhall and The Grey One) in the forests of Sliabh Bládhma/ Sliabh Bloom in County Laois). This isolated spot was the most significant area of wilderness adjacent to the areas in Leinster which would have been most populated back in the Iron Age. As a result, it would have been a logical place to set the story of someone who was on the run or in hiding.
Seiscenn Uairbhaoil: This Leinster marsh (where the warrior Fiacail mac Codhna was said to be based) is believed to be located in present day County Wicklow. It's placement on the map is an estimate on my part.
Almhu: This was the site where Tadg mac Nuadat was originally said to live. According to one or two references, the fortress was painted with alum (Almhu) from whence it gets its name. This was also the childhood home of Muirne Múncháem (Fionn's mother). These days many people still use the anglicized (and meaningless) version of the name: The Hill of Allen.
Dún Baoiscne:This is the one site in the Fionn mac Cumhaill series which is pure fabrication on my part. For the purposes of the series, I needed Clann Baoiscne to have a tribal territory based around a fortress which I arbitrarily named Dún Baoiscne (literally: the fortress of Clann Baoiscne). To be fair, if there had been a Clann Baoiscne and they had a fortress, that's probably what it would have been called.
Many of these place names may pose a challenge for non-Irish speakers to pronounce but why not have a go and then check it against the audio guide to see how close you were.
Tags: book based on irish mythology, books based on irish mythology, Fionn mac Cumhaill, fionn mac cumhaill story, Irish legend, irish mythology, Irish mythology book
Ireland's Most Incompetent Warrior
Posted on April 23, 2019 by admin - Blog
I've got to admit, I've always kinda liked Lóegaire Búadach (Lóegaire the Victorious).
Ulster Cycle hero, contemporary of Cú Chulainn, husband to Fedelm Niochride and warrior in Conchobhar mac Nessa's court, Lóegaire's main function seems to have been as a comedic extra on the periphery of the principal action. In that respect, Lóegaire Búadach often filled the role of inept everyman, the hapless loser we all have a soft spot for.
Lóegaire first appears in Fled Bricrenn (Bricriú's Feast) where he's generally represented as a somewhat inept third contender for the Champion's Portion (a prize that he and the two other Ulster warrior heroes, Cú Chulainn and Conall Cernach, are competing for). In every competition the three partake in, Lóegaire inevitably comes off worse.
When the three heroes meet an ogre on their way to Cú Roí's dwelling, Lóegaire is forced to flee without his weapons, horses, chariot and charioteer. Later when the heroes stand guard at Cú Roí's dwelling, another ogre casts him into a pile of cowshit. When they're sent to fight the Amazon's of the Glen, the Amazons strip him of his clothes and weapons and, humiliated, let him leave.
Lóegaire's most embarrassing story, of course, is the story of how he died.
When King Conchobhar mac Nessa discoverd that his wife was being unfaithful with the poet Aed, he immediately ordered the latter to be put to death. Because of his status as a poet however, Aed was offered the opportunity to choose the manner of his death and, having a secret spell to dry up water, he slyly opted for 'Death by Drowning'.
Despite several attempts to submerge him in local rivers and springs (that all mysteriously dried up), Conchobhar's men eventually dragged the poet to Loch Lai (extremely close to Lóegaire's residence). Here, with Aed's spell now waning, they were finally able to get him into the water.
Hearing the poet's yells for help, Lóegaire jumped up for his sword, outraged that anyone would treat a poet in such a manner and determined to save him. So outraged was Lóegaire, that he forget to duck when hurtling out through the door of his dwelling and subsequently managed to have the top half of his head sheared off by the low lintel.
With his clothes coated in gore and half his head missing, Lóegaire demonstrated that, in fact, his brain was superfluous to his fighting ability. In the ensuing battle, he killed thirty of Conchobhar's men before he finally dropped dead.
And of course, Aed slipped away unharmed.
Note: This was originally published on 28 Sep 2016
Tags: Irish legend, irish myth, irish mythology, irish warrior
A Dead Queen and Stones on a Sacred Hill (Irish Mythology)
Posted on August 16, 2017 by admin - Blog
Heading north in County Sligo, the outline of Knocknarea is clearly visible in the distance. The origin of the hill's Irish name has been lost to time but there's no shortage of suggestions, varying from Cnoc na Rí (hill of kings – my preferred option) to Cnoc na Ré (hill of the ages, or possibly, moon) to many others.
Like most of the Sligo mountains and hills, Knocknarea has a cairn (an enormous mound of loose stones dating back at least 2500-3000 years that usually conceals a passage-grave beneath) which is also very visible and is probably one of the biggest in the country.
In Irish, this particular cairn is called Meascán Méabha, which roughly translates to 'Méabh's Lump' and it relates of course to Méabh Leathdearg or Méabh of Connacht (anglicized needlessly to Maeve) who played such an important role in the great Irish epic Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley). According to the remaining literature, when she died Méabh was buried upright at that site so that she could face her Ulster-based enemies.
That's all a bit of a fanciful conceit of course, given that Méabh was originally a land goddess (a representation of Mother Earth) transformed into a human personage over the ages. Needless to say, a lot of people continue to take the Táin Bó Cúailnge literally however, and hence get a bit excited when they come to Sligo and visit it. They also tend to get a bit outraged when they learn that the cairn has never been excavated until you point out there are literally tons of cairns all over the locality and given the unlikelihood of Méabh actually being buried there, it makes more sense to focus limited national archaeological resources elsewhere.
Undeterred in their conviction that this is the final resting place of some famous queen, some of them are driven to continue uphill to gather cairn stones as souvenirs which they then carry away with them.
To the point that it's now becoming something of a conservation issue.
It's often part of the human condition that we can't just look at and respect what's directly in front of us. Driven to interfere and meddle, we often end up destroying the very thing we love. Fortunately, there are still plenty more stones on the cairn but if people keep nicking them, it'll eventually end up being unintentionally excavated far sooner than expected.
Tags: Irish legend, irish myth, irish queen
Final Cover for Liath Luachra – The Grey One
Posted on July 26, 2015 by admin - Blog, My Writing
Some months ago I mentioned that I was writing a prequel to the Fionn mac Cumhaill series entitled Liath Luachra – The Friendly Ones. The latter part of that title referred to the mercenary group Na Cinéaltaí (The Friendly Ones) originally mentioned in FIONN: Defence of Ráth Bládhma and to which the character Liath Luachra had at one point belonged. After some feedback from various people, the title name was changed to Liath Luachra – The Grey One and the final cover completed (at last!).
Some of you will have recognised An Grianàn Ailigh (the Grianán of Aileach) there in the background. An ancient stone structure up in Donegal that's believed to date back to around 1700 B.C., I passed it by on my way to visit the ever-amazing Mel and Ruairidh last year. For the purpose of the the story, I actually transferred the Grianàn south and east to northern Leinster. It's a pretty amazing place with spectacular views that I'll write about again at some stage.
This particular book basically came about about as I was keen to explore some research I'd carried out on tribal dynamics and on the use of fian (the original word for a 'war party' but also the word that later became 'fianna') in pre-fifth century Ireland. I was also keen to provide some additional background context to the character of Liath Luachra in the Fionn mac Cumhaill series.
The book currently has it's own page on this site and although it won't be released until September/ October this year, I will be putting a sample chapter up in the next two weeks or so.
The back cover blurb reads as follows:
Liath Luachra – The Grey One
Ireland 188 A.D. A land of tribal affiliations, secret alliances and treacherous rivalries.
Youthful woman warrior Liath Luachra has survived two brutal years with mercenary war party "The Friendly Ones" but now the winds are shifting.
Dispatched on a murderous errand where nothing is as it seems, she must survive a group of treacherous comrades, the unwanted advances of her battle leader and a personal history that might be her own undoing.
Clanless and friendless, she can count on nothing but her wits, her fighting skills and her natural ferocity to see her through.
Woman warrior, survivor, killer and future guardian to Irish hero Fionn mac Cumhail – this is her story.
To be honest, it always feels a bit weird doing the whole back cover blurb thing. Obviously, you want to give people some idea what the book's about and try to make it sound interesting (with a limited number of words). At the same time though, it's hard not to find yourself falling into cliché. To my ear, the blurb often rings wincingly melodramatic at times. I guess this was as good as I could make it without taking it all WAAAYY too seriously.
Tags: Fionn mac Cumhaill, Irish legend, woman warrior


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RealEstateRama 2007 Existing-home Sales Fifth Highest
2007 Existing-home Sales Fifth Highest
By NAR -
Existing-home sales declined in December following several months of stable activity, with total sales in 2007 still at the fifth highest on record, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.
Existing-home sales – including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – slipped 2.2 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.89 million units in December from a pace of 5 million in November, and are 22 percent below the 6.27 million-unit level in December 2006.
For all of 2007 there were 5,652,000 existing-home sales, the fifth highest year on record. However, the total was 12.8 percent below the 6,478,000 transactions recorded in 2006.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says the market is experiencing uncharacteristic weakness.
"Home sales remain weak despite improved affordability conditions in many parts of the country, but we could get a quick boost to the market if loan limits are raised in combination with the bold cut in the Fed funds rate," he says. "Home prices are lower, mortgage interest rates continue to decline and incomes are higher, but many potential buyers are delaying a purchase."
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 6.10 percent in December from 6.21 percent in November; the rate was 6.14 percent in December 2006. Last week, Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fixed rate dropped to 5.69 percent.
"Although interest rates on jumbo loans have fallen somewhat, they remain well above conventional mortgage rates," Yun says. "It isn't surprising that the share of single-family homes selling for more than $500,000 fell to 12.4 percent of transactions in December from 14.2 percent a year ago."
NAR research also revealed the following:
– Inventory: total housing inventory fell 7.4 percent at the end of December to 3.91 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 9.6-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 10.1-month supply in November. "The fall in inventory in December is encouraging, but inventories remain elevated and buyers have a clear edge over sellers in many markets," Yun says.
– Prices: the national median existing-home price for all housing types was $208,400 in December, down 6 percent from a year earlier when the median was $221,600. Because home sales have slowed the most in higher cost markets, there is a downward distortion to the national median as the mix of closed sales has changed over the past year. For all of 2007, the median price was $218,900, down 1.4 percent from a median of $221,900 in 2006.
– Single family homes: sales declined 2.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.31 million in December from 4.40 million in November, and are 21.6 percent below 5.50 million-unit level in December 2006. In all of 2007, single-family sales fell 13.0 percent to 4.94 million. The median existing single-family home price was $206,500 in December, down 6.5 percent from a year earlier. For all of 2007, the single-family median was $217,800, down 1.8 percent from 2006.
– Condo and co-op sales: existing condominium and co-op sales fell 3.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 580,000 units in December from 600,000 in November, and are 24.5 percent below the 768,000-unit pace a year ago. Condo sales for all of 2007 fell 11.0 percent to 713,000 units. The median existing condo price was $222,200 last month, which is 2.5 percent below December 2006. In all of 2007, the median condo price was $226,400, up 2.0 percent from 2006.
NAR: Loan Limits Need Raised
NAR President Richard Gaylord says that raising the loan limit on conventional financing is the most effective way to stimulate housing and minimize the potential for a recession. He calls for lawmakers to raise the limit on conforming mortgages to $625,000, which would open safe and affordable financing to buyers in high-cost areas.
"It is grossly unfair that some Americans do not have access to low-interest rate loans," Gaylord says. "This would help people as they move away from risky subprime mortgages and high-interest rate jumbo loans."
NAR projects the higher loan limit would increase annual home sales by nearly 350,000, reduce foreclosures by 140,000 to 210,000, and increase economic activity by $44 billion. "What's more, this would come at no cost to taxpayers – it's a policy change that could really boost the economy," Gaylord says.
Other projections of NAR's analysis show raising the loan limit would reduce the supply of homes on the market by 1 to 1.5 months, and strengthen home prices by 2 to 3 percentage points. In addition, as many as 500,000 jumbo loans would be refinanced to lower interest rates.
Gaylord says current housing conditions vary widely.
"Many local areas continue to have healthy or improving local housing markets," he says. "For example, we saw higher home sales last month in diverse areas such as San Antonio; Syracuse; Springfield, Ill.; and Sarasota, Fla. If you're thinking about getting into the market as a buyer or a seller, consult a Realtor® to learn about conditions in your area – they may be considerably different from the composite national picture."
— REALTOR Magazine Online
NAR – National Association of REALTORS
The National Association of REALTORS® is America's largest trade association, representing 1.3 million members, including NAR's institutes, societies, and councils.
https://www.nar.realtor/
NAR - National Association of Realtors
Search NAR:
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Recent NAR Press Releases
NAR Leaders Featured Among the Swanepoel Power 200 List
- NAR -
Seven National Association of Realtors® leaders appear among this year's Swanepoel Power 200 list. The Swanepoel Power 200 – SP200 – is considered "the definitive ranking of the leaders and executives in the residential real estate brokerage industry"
Existing-Home Sales Descend 1.7% in November
Realtors® Join MBA, NAHB to Stress Need for Stability during CFPB...
House Federal Funding Legislation Brings Certainty, Stability to Housing Market
Random NAR in News


Winter is officially over and we are starting Spring! The season change starts to slowly bring back some warmer weather – the average temperature ranges from 18 to 29°c. Some days can be a bit cooler or even hotter, rainfall in September is minimal. This makes it the PERFECT time to visit the Great Barrier Reef with beautiful days and comfortable water temperatures. Click here to see some amazing Great Barrier Reef tours – maybe visit Green Island, or spend a day on the Outer Reef!
If you're thinking of visiting the tropical rainforest, you're in luck! While the weather warms up a bit, the humidity is still nice and low compared to Summer so it will be a pleasant experience without too much sweating! Head to the ancient Daintree Rainforest & famous Cape Tribulation with Down Under Tours to discover this heritage-listed area!
As always, Cairns has some fantastic markets on every weekend! From local crafts to fresh local produce, it is definitely worth checking out at least one sometime!
Rusty's Markets: Every Friday 5am-6pm, Saturday 5am-6pm, & Sunday 5am-3pm.
Carnival on Collins: Sunday 2nd – Fathers Day!
An annual event that is part of the Cairns Festival, Carnival on Collins is a street market celebration with performers, live music, free workshops, market stalls and more! This free event falls on Father's Day, so it's a great way to start the morning with the family. Find out more information and see a list of all the day's events by clicking here.
Cairns' biggest social event is on again for 2018, with a number of events over three days! Starting Thursday with the Ladies Fashion High Tea and the Presidents Welcome Cocktail Party, the ANZ Cairns Amateurs Ball on Friday evening and the races are on Friday and Saturday with a number of packages available for both days! Fashion, food, fun and entertainment – The Cairns Amateurs Carnival is always on the calendar for many of the locals, so make sure to start planning your outfit now. Find out all the details you need on their website by clicking here.
The Cairns Tennis International is back with the Men's tournament from the 15th-23rd, and the Women's from 16th-23rd. Entries close on August 30th, so keep an eye on their website by clicking here for more information closer to the date.
Brisbane band, Sheppard, are coming to Cairns for one night only. The chart-toppers rose to fame with multi-platinum hits 'Geronimo' and 'Let Me Down Easy' and they are touring to celebrate their #1 album 'Watching The Sky'. Find out more info and get your tickets here!
After touring all over the world for the last year, we thought it was about time we do a full Australian tour!! We can't wait for this, tickets on sale this Thursday!
Tropic Now's foodie festival is back at Paradise Palms! This Saturday afternoon event starts at 12pm and goes until late. If you're an AFL fan you're in luck – there will also be a big screen for the AFL Grand Final so you won't miss any of the action! Entry is $5 per person at the door & kids under 13yrs free. Keep an eye on their Facebook event page to find out more information like food vendors as they are announced.