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The characters of Xena: Warrior Princess are owned by MCA Pictures and used here without permission.
The opening lines of this story are taken from lyrics of the song "Ghost" by the Indigo Girls. They, too, are used without permission. No copyright infringement was intended in the writing of this story.
This story contains the expression of love between two women. Hopefully, you know if you should or shouldn't be reading it. This story also contains what probably amounts to a virtual river of tears. Don't be alarmed if you notice them dripping from your computer screen.
Feedback regarding this story is welcome at email@example.com.
NOTE: This story takes place immediately following the events of "Destiny." It was inspired by Renee O'Connor's very moving and talented portrayal of grief in "Destiny" and "The Quest."
There's not enough room in this world for my pain.
Signals cross and love gets lost and time passed makes it plain.
Unknowing captor, you'll never know how much you pierce my spirit.
But, I can't touch you. Can you hear it?
I now know how it feels to be weakened like Achilles, with you always at my heels.
I feel it like a sickness, how this love is killing me, but I'd walk into the fingers of your fire willingly.
Dance the edge of sanity, I've never been this close.
I'm in love with your ghost.
Artemis stood with her hands on her hips behind the Fates. She had been trying to prevail upon them. They paid her little attention as they tended to their labors.
"There MUST be something you can do!" the goddess insisted.
Lachesis turned from measuring threads with a bored expression. "There is nothing that can be done, Artemis. Her lifeline has been severed. Now, do go... Take your tiresome 'mighty warrior' disposition out of here and leave us in peace."
Artemis stood up to her full height and said with a restrained voice, "But, this is different. It was not her time to die."
"You intervened with that excuse once before, Artemis. You were fortunate then, but you were too slow to act this time. Atropos has cut her thread. It is done. Even as we speak, she nears the river to the underworld." Lachesis turned back to her art.
"Then, she hasn't entered the underworld yet?"
"No, but it is only a matter of time."
A deep furrow creased Artemis's brow. Her eyes wandered over the thousands upon thousands of colorful lines strung before her. Frustrated, she sighed heavily. "Which thread is hers anyway?"
Lachesis rolled her eyes and motioned to the blonde sister on her right. "Show her, Clothos, then maybe she will let us be."
The youngest Fate, responsible for spinning the treads of life, looked up at Artemis pleasantly.
The goddess gave her a charming smile.
Clothos returned her eyes to the threads. She began searching, running a slender index finger along them. "Her cord is never hard to find... it is one of the thickest and most vibrant. Some of these lifelines have barely more than a few strands, but hers contained many. It was so easy to handle... so strong, yet supple. Let's see... Oh! Here it is."
Artemis squinted at the fiber which Clothos had identified. Following it from its beginning, she kept her eyes glued to the thread as she stepped around Lachesis. She moved toward Atropos and then stopped. "Wait, what happened here?!" She pointed to a place where the line became twisted with another. The two entangled threads seemed to be strung as one from there on.
Lachesis reluctantly shifted her eyes from her task. "Her life seems to have been entwined with another. Unusual, but it happens occasionally."
The goddess continued tracing the braided threads. She eyed the cord so intently she didn't realize how near she was to Atropos. She stepped sideways onto the Fate's foot, just as she was about to bring her sheers together. Atropos recovered herself in time to keep from cutting a bunch of strings all at once.
"Artemis!!" The oldest Fate glared at her with annoyance.
The goddess winced. "Sorry." She ducked under Atropos's arms and resumed tracking the thread. It was so tightly wrapped with the second lifeline she couldn't tell where it had been cut. She examined it closer. "Atropos, I don't see where you sliced it."
The Fate huffed and dropped her scissors on the ground. Pushing Artemis out of her way, she placed her fingers on the thread. She inspected it. Frowning, she stooped so her face was only a few inches from the filaments. She looked nervously out the corner of her eye at the goddess. Finally, she spotted the cut. The severed ends of the sturdy fiber were barely exposed in the twists of the two strings. She jabbed at them. "Here!"
Artemis strained her eyes to see where the line divided. Her eyes widened. "You call that a cut?! That other thread is holding hers together. The two ends of her cord are still touching."
Atropos picked up her sheers and replied calmly, "Yes. But, that other thread will eventually loosen from around hers. In the natural course of mortal grief, the other lifeline will untangle itself from the one that was cut. It will unravel... it will let go. And then, you will see... her lifeline will fall free... and it will separate where it was cut. She is dead, Artemis. There is no denying it."
The goddess kept staring at the two threads. After several minutes, she spoke again. "And, what if the second thread doesn't unravel itself from hers?"
"It will," Lachesis said with certainty.
"But, what if it doesn't?! What if it remains tight and keeps the two ends of her line together?"
The Fates exchanged glances but offered no comments.
"It is possible that she could be sustained by the second thread... for a time." Lachesis responded.
"Sustained?? What does that mean?"
"Hades will not be able to claim her soul until the second lifeline is disentwined... until it lets go. Until that happens, she will hover in the realm between the living and the dead."
Artemis lifted her chin as possibilities began to crowd her mind. "Thank
you for your indulgence, my dear Fates."
A half-hour later, Artemis still stood watching the Fates work. She had backed up some distance from them. Her mind was racing.
"Artemis, what are you up to? Haven't you muddled things enough?"
The goddess recognized the voice of the figure which had been standing in the shadows. "Always the supportive brother, aren't you, Apollo?"
The god joined her in the middle of the room and looked at the threads curiously. "What are you hoping to achieve, Artemis? The lass cannot keep her suspended indefinitely... and even if she could, to what end? What difference does it make?"
"Ambrosia could make a difference." Artemis's eyes glittered.
"Ah... I think I see where you're going," he said speculatively. "Yes, ambrosia could make a difference... if it could be obtained in time." The handsome god brought a finger to his jaw and became pensive. "Alright, let's suppose the girl can hold on long enough. What about the warrior? ...Artemis, she is tired. She gave up. Do you really believe you can convince her to go back?"
"No, I don't." She paused. "But, I think M'Lila could."
"M'Lila?!" Apollo's voice was stern. "Artemis, you have already risked Hades's wrath. You are lucky he didn't discover you helped M'Lila go to Xena disguised as that girl. Anyway, look what it got you! You sent M'Lila there to help the warrior find her life, and instead she lost it."
Artemis flared her nostrils.
Apollo went on. "Now you want to send M'Lila from the underworld again?!"
"Xena is just outside the underworld, Apollo... M"Lila would hardly even be leaving."
"Artemis, you know what Hades did when he found out Ares helped Callisto escape the underworld. If he learns you're escorting M'Lila in and out at will... Well, I fear for you."
Artemis narrowed her eyes and kept her gaze straight ahead. "I appreciate your concern, my darling brother. But, I'd rather have your cooperation."
"My cooperation? What can I do?"
"Don't play dumb, Apollo... O great god of healing. You know very well it's the bard's grief which keeps her lifeline so tightly wound around the warrior's. Didn't you hear Atropos? ...As the girl's grief diminishes and her heart heals, her thread will release the other. Then Hades will claim Xena forever."
"Are you suggesting this girl be subjected to the agony of bereavement indefinitely... just to keep the warrior suspended between life and death?!"
"Of course not! But, if M'Lila can persuade her, Xena will need time to get to the ambrosia... time which the bard's grieving will afford."
"So, what is it you're asking of me?" Apollo was becoming impatient.
She looked at him intently. "Apollo, I'm asking you not to intercede. Let the girl's grief pass in its own time."
"Artemis, I am the god of medicine. I will not refuse those who call upon my restorative powers. If she asks, I will comfort her."
"And if she chooses to bear it?" Artemis's dark eyes were pleading.
"I will not render my healing without invitation," he said at last.
"Thank you." She turned back to the Fates.
Apollo watched them too. After a few minutes, he pursed his lips. "Artemis, what is it about the warrior that is so important to you anyway?"
"You wouldn't understand, Apollo."
"Why wouldn't I?"
"Because you're not a female," she said under her breath.
"What was that?" The god tilted his head toward her.
Artemis raised her chin. "Let's just say I've made an investment in her."
Artemis's lips were gentle on the Egyptian's cheek. After the quick kiss, M'Lila gazed steadily into the goddess's eyes and smiled demurely.
"Will you do it?" Artemis asked softly.
"Yes, I'll go to her. Artemis, you knew the answer to that question before you asked."
The goddess shrugged her shoulders slightly. "Well... never let it be said that I took anything about you for granted."
M'Lila could literally feel the warmth radiating from the immortal's face which remained close to her own.
The two stood in a field of tall grass somewhere in Elysium. Artemis took the young woman's arm and drew it through her own. They began walking slowly.
"I don't have to warn you of the dangers, M'Lila."
"And, you realize she may run out of time."
"Yes... I do."
"Do you understand why this is important to me?"
"Naturally... it's important to me for the same reason." The Egyptian's voice was sincere. "...And, I've been praying for a chance to undo my mistake."
Artemis stopped. "You couldn't have known what would happen, M'Lila. Your only error was overestimating Xena's defenses." She grinned and touched her cheek. "But, then, you always do look for the best in those you love."
They resumed their stroll, walking more closely together. In the distance they saw some children playing.
Without taking her eyes from the girls and boys, the goddess inquired, "What will you say to her, M'Lila? How will you make her see she must go back?"
The young mortal was silent with indecision. She smiled instinctively as one of the girls began skipping and singing.
Distracted by the adorable girl, Artemis exclaimed, "Listen to that beautiful little voice!"
M'Lila recognized the song and began to hum under her breath. Then, she became quiet as an idea occurred to her. "I know what to do."
The goddess turned to her expectantly.
"Artemis, I'm not sure she'll be able to SEE that she should go back."
An alarmed expression came to the immortal's face.
"She'll need to HEAR that she should."
Artemis frowned and shook her head, indicating that she didn't comprehend.
M'Lila eyes sparkled with memory. "When I was with Xena on her ship... Sometimes, I would sneak away to the bow where I could feel the wind in my face. It made me want to sing... and I would." She paused and smiled. "Xena would always hear me. She would stop whatever she was doing and come forward and climb up into the bow with me. She would usually sit down on the coils of line and listen." M'Lila chuckled sweetly. "Sometimes, if the sea was rough, the bow would plunge, and she would be sprayed with foam. But, she would keep sitting there, wet and salty, insisting that I not stop singing."
"Having heard your gorgeous voice, I know why she did."
M'Lila lowered her eyes and continued. "There were other times... during the nights... she often would become troubled and restless. So, I would sing to her then too, or sometimes I would just talk... and even though she couldn't understand my words, she would listen so intently... and she would finally sleep."
Artemis studied the woman's face. "Are you going to appeal to her with a song?"
"No, but I am going to make her listen."
"There is another whose voice will be more musical to her ears than mine."
A broad, gleaming smile slowly spread the goddess's lips. "Yes...
that just might work." Her eyes twinkled at M'Lila as she trailed
her fingertips along the young woman's neck. "You're a genius, Love."
Four hours had passed since Xena died. Her body lay on the pallet in Nicklio's hut. Gabrielle still sat next to the warrior. Her hand still held Xena's arm, and her head still rested on the edge of the pallet. The light of dawn was beginning to seep through the cracks near the door. Except for the bard's occasional sobs and the crackling of wood in the fire, it was completely quiet.
Gabrielle opened her eyes just enough to peak through her lashes. She immediately shut them again, squeezing out new tears. 'This must be a dream, this must be a dream,' she told herself. She had been repeating this for the past hour. But, each time she opened her eyes, she saw Xena's lifeless face resting not far from her own. She clenched her fist and concentrated, as if she could will the past two days into oblivion. 'The next time I open my eyes, Xena and I will be back on the road to somewhere besides Cirra, and none of this will have happened.' As she gripped Xena's arm, a memory stabbed her mind like a red-hot poker. Her face became contorted with pain. 'If only we could go back to Philippi.'
"How much farther?"
"Are you tired? Do you want to ride?" Xena increased her pace so she was walking next to the bard instead of behind her.
"No, I'm not tired at all," Gabrielle said cheerfully. "I thought YOU might be. You've been walking slower and slower." She playfully kicked a stone from her side of the road into Xena's path.
"Have I?" The warrior booted the rock back onto Gabrielle's side, a few feet in front of her.
The bard glanced at her suspiciously. "Are you sure you want to go to the festival, Xena?" She kicked the stone farther ahead of the warrior. "I mean, it doesn't matter that much to me, and there will be others this year besides the one at Philippi."
"I'm sure, Gabrielle." Xena flicked her toe and sent the stone back to the other side.
"So, how much farther is it?" Gabrielle tapped the rock with the outside of her foot so that it landed right where Xena was about to step.
Without missing a beat, the warrior adjusted her stride and punted the rock high into the air. "We should be there tomorrow." The stone came down ten yards ahead of them, exactly in the middle of the road. It skipped a few times and came to rest on Gabrielle's side.
Xena tried to suppress a grin.
Gabrielle looked curiously at her friend as they continued. "Xena, how did you develop so many skills anyway?"
"Practice," she answered matter-of-factly. She looked at the bard kindly. "I've been watching you use your staff. You're becoming quite skilled yourself."
"Yes. Show me that new thing you do."
"What new thing?"
"That one-handed strike with a spin."
"You noticed that." The bard smiled proudly. "It's my own move."
"Show it to me."
"Okay..." Gabrielle backed off the trail. Xena started to follow her. "No, no..." The bard held her staff out toward Xena to keep her from coming closer. "Lotsa room, lotsa room." She swung her staff in wide circle to check her distance from Argo.
She held her staff in front of her with her right hand. With deft quickness she flipped her wrist so the lower end of her staff came up between her arm and her side and the upper end extended out from her. At the same time, she spun her body half way around. The staff, braced against her side, knocked over a pretended attacker. With her back now to Xena, she jerked the staff from behind her and twirled it over her head once. As she brought it down, she gripped it with her left hand and spun the remainder of the way around with a whack against another imaginary foe.
Xena blinked. "Do it again. That was too fast."
"Stop it, Xena. I know you're just humoring me." Gabrielle walked back to her.
"I'm not. That is a verrrry good move." The warrior's voice was rich and earnest.
Gabrielle smiled at her modestly.
They resumed their course. "You know, Xena, I want to become proficient enough with this staff to be able to protect you as well as you protect me." Before Xena could respond, Gabrielle chucked, "Not that you ever need protecting."
After a couple steps, Gabrielle realized Xena was no longer beside her. She turned around.
The warrior had stopped in her tracks. Her eyes were misty. "Thank you, Gabrielle." Her gaze lingered lovingly on the bard's face.
Gabrielle hesitated. Xena so seldom let herself become emotional. The bard cherished these infrequent exchanges and savored them while they lasted. Each affectionate moment seemed to build upon the last. And, with the passing days, she knew that everything - traveling together, their games, practicing with their weapons, and a sort of humor that was more a grin than a laugh - was creating bonds between them. It gave her a sense of growing excitement.
A burning log in the fireplace popped loudly and startled Gabrielle from her memory. Her eyes flew open. She expected to see Xena's glistening, blue eyes staring back at her. Instead she saw the warrior's pale, expressionless face slumped against the pallet. Her throat constricted so quickly she gasped for air. She closed her eyes again and held tighter to Xena's arm.
Nicklio sat against the wall with his thighs drawn up to his chest. His chin rested on his arms which were on his knees. He watched Gabrielle. He had watched her all night as she struggled to let go of Xena. A few times he'd seen her start to remove her hand from the warrior's arm, but she had never withdrawn it completely. He had tried several times to talk to the girl, to coax her away from Xena's body. She ignored him, or perhaps she'd not even heard him. 'What could bring her out of this?' he thought. 'There had to be something.'
As a healer, Nicklio had witnessed grief many times. Everyone experienced it differently... dealt with it in different ways. But, Gabrielle's reaction was almost beyond what he'd observed before. He could tell her grief was abysmal. Nicklio wondered if she was going to find her way out of its depths.
A log in the fire fell and drew his attention. He gazed into the light, thinking how strangely the Fates worked. It couldn't be mere coincidence that Xena died here... in the same hut where M'Lila had taken her last breath.
Nicklio remembered how Xena had reacted to grief. The scene was vivid in his mind. He had been knocked unconscious by one of Caesar's men and awoke to the sight of Xena sitting on the pallet with M'Lila's dead body. She was cradling M'Lila's head and shoulders in her arms, absently caressing her cheek. She shed no tears. She was singing very softly and staring into space. The haunting dirge Xena sang was unbearably dark, and there was a bitter edge to her voice. There was such agony on her face, but her eyes looked empty. Nicklio blinked away his tears and looked at the dead Romans on the floor. When Xena stopped singing he turned to her again. She still held M'Lila but seemed to be in a trance. Nicklio grimaced and searched her eyes. He withdrew slightly, still staring at the woman. He suddenly felt alone... as if his body were the only one in the room which contained a soul.
Gabrielle's crying brought Nicklio back to the present. He focused again on the fire. It was low. He dragged himself up to get another log. All night, he had tended the warmth, and now he was almost out of wood. It was getting light outside. He would have to bring in more firewood and make them something to eat. Maybe he could reach the girl through her hunger. She probably hadn't eaten in days.
Nicklio donned a thick parka. He kneeled next to Gabrielle and laid a hand on her back. "I must get wood. I'll be back." There was no sign the bard had heard him. He sighed, stood, and walked to the door. A swift gust of cold air streamed into the hut when he opened it. Once outside, he pulled the door closed behind him.
The burst of frigid air had caused Gabrielle's eyes to open. She jumped up and ran to the door. She threw it open and stumbled into the snow. Her leg throbbed from the newly-stitched knife wound.
Nicklio ran back to her. He pulled her up. "Gabrielle, where are you going?! You must get back inside!"
"No!" Gabrielle's head jerked around as if she were looking for something. "Where's Argo?!"
"She's in the stable," Nicklio yelled into the wind. He tried to move her to the hut.
Gabrielle wrestled free and ran toward the stable. She hauled the heavy door open and peered inside until her eyes found Argo. The horse nodded and neighed. Gabrielle limped slowly to Xena's mount. Nicklio stopped when he reached the door.
"It's me, Girl," the bard whispered. She placed her hand on the horse's neck. She started to speak again but couldn't. She swallowed very hard. "Argo, Xena is gone." She looked into the horse's eyes, as if she expected the mare to speak. Sobbing again, Gabrielle ran her hands over Argo's jaws and nose. "I'm still here, Girl. I'll take care of you. You'll be okay. You'll be okay."
Relieved, Nicklio whispered under his breath, "That's it... keep
An hour later, Gabrielle panicked when she stepped inside Nicklio's hut. Xena's body was gone.
"Where is she?!!" She moved to the middle of the room and twisted around.
The healer rose from the hearth and rushed to her. He grabbed her arms with enough force to make her look at him. "It's okay. She's there." He pointed to the far end of the room.
Gabrielle saw a blanket covering what she knew was Xena's body. She took a feeble breath and gritted her teeth to keep from crying again. She ran to the warrior's body and gripped her cold arm through the blanket.
The bard unwillingly released her hold.
Nicklio walked her to the fire. "Sit now." He pressed down on her shoulders, and she gave in, crumbling onto a rug. Her body felt numb, but her mind was in excruciating pain. 'This is too hard,' she thought to herself. 'How can I just sit here with Xena dead in the corner?!'
"I'm making stew." Nicklio lifted the lid from a pot which hung over the fire. He fanned the steam into the room, hoping to whet her appetite. "Not a usual breakfast... but we need a substantial meal."
Gabrielle gave him an irritated glance and stared into the fire. 'He's trying to take my mind off Xena,' she seethed. 'I wish he'd just shut up and leave us alone.'
"Your horse okay?"
The bard sneered at him. "Argo is Xena's horse."
Nicklio lowered his eyes in apology and stirred the stew. After he replaced the lid, he picked up a loaf of bread which had been warming near the fire. He ripped off a heal and laid it on a plate. He picked up his mortar and sniffed its contents. Tipping the mortar, he tapped it so that a small amount of powdered spices fell onto the plate next to the bread. Next, he picked up a cruet of olive oil and poured a small puddle near the spices. He pushed the plate toward Gabrielle. She noticed it and frowned.
"Dip the bread in the oil and then into the spices. Then take a bite. You'll like it. The spice mixture is called 'Dukka'... an Egyptian recipe which I learned from M'Lila."
Gabrielle looked at him quizzically and then at the pot hanging over the flames. She heard the stew simmering. She felt like her insides were boiling too. She clenched her jaw again. She wanted to scream at the gods. She wanted to scream at the fucking moon-worshiper who had killed Xena. She wanted to scream at her beloved Xena for letting him.
The healer ladled stew into bowls for each of them. He took Gabrielle's left hand and placed the bowl into it. He formed the fingers of her other hand around a spoon. "Eat!" he almost shouted.
The bard snapped her head toward him. The anger was evident on her face.
He began eating. "Mmm, delicious." He shoveled a few more spoonfuls into his mouth.
Gabrielle stared at him. She didn't care if she ever ate again. Why should she? Who was she kidding? Argo would survive without her... probably wouldn't even notice if she weren't around. That horse never had liked her. Maybe she'd just let herself starve to death. Even if it meant writhing in the fires of Tartarus, at least she could join Xena in the underworld. And, the first thing she'd ask the pretentious warrior was, "Where do you get off just leaving me like that?!!"
Nicklio decided to try again. "Gabrielle... what will you and Argo do? Where will you take Xena's body?"
Gabrielle blinked several times. Her eyes slowly moved to the corner. What was it she had promised Xena?
Nicklio waited, knowing something was happening.
Gabrielle latched onto a memory. Long ago, Xena had asked that her body be taken to Amphipolis. The bard had promised she would. Xena's life would not truly be complete until her body was resting next to her brother's. 'I promised her.' Her eyes burned with devotion, and she said aloud, "I promised her!"
"What?" Nicklio asked.
"Argo and I must take Xena to Amphipolis!" Her voice was steely with determination. Before Nicklio could respond, Gabrielle lifted the bowl and began eating.
Nicklio breathed another sigh of relief.
Gabrielle emptied the bowl and looked expectantly at Nicklio.
"You'd like more?" he asked.
The bard nodded and hungrily scooped some into her bowl when Nicklio motioned for her to help herself. Remembering the bread, Gabrielle picked it up and did as Nicklio had instructed. The oil and spices combined to make the most intensely pleasing flavor. She tore another piece of bread from the toasty loaf and wiped the plate. After she'd finished the second bowl of stew, she leaned against the wall. Having not slept for three days, her full stomach now made it impossible to fight exhaustion any longer. Her eyelids became heavy.
As her thoughts started to blur, she observed Nicklio. He was dipping a piece of bread into the spices.
"Who's M'Lila?" She mumbled.
"Hmm?" Nicklio looked up.
"The person who gave you the recipe for that stuff..."
"Xena didn't tell you about M'Lila?"
Gabrielle shook her head.
"I'll explain later. Sleep now."
Xena and Gabrielle sat on a wide, stone wall which paralleled the road to Philippi. They had just passed through a tiny village. The bard had purchased some lunch for them and was now drawing it out of their pouch. The wall had apparently been erected by the farmer who owned the land adjacent to the trail. In the distance there was a sturdy hut and a stable. A few pigs rooted around the dirt near the hut, and sheep grazed in the field near the road.
Gabrielle spied a vegetable garden at the edge of the field. She fished around in the bottom of their pouch. When she withdrew her hand, she had two dinars in her palm. Her eyes shined mischievously.
Xena's wrinkled her brow, wondering what the bard was up to.
"Fresh vegetables sound good, don't you think?"
The bard hopped off the wall and trotted through the grass. When she reached the garden, she examined a plant. She pulled off two large, red tomatoes and held them up for Xena to see. Then, she squatted down. The grass was too high for Xena to tell what she was doing. The bard popped up and walked over to the stable. The pigs grunted and scurried away from her. She took the dinars from her pocket and placed them in an empty bucket near the stable door. She sprinted back across the field.
Xena's eyebrow arched. "That's twice since I've known you that you've pilfered food."
"I left some money!... more than I would've paid at the market." Gabrielle held the tomatoes out to the warrior.
Xena pulled her hands back. "Nuh-uh. If I touch those tomatoes, I become an accessory to your behavior."
Gabrielle laid the tomatoes on the wall next to their cheese and bread. Then she pulled a large cucumber from her pocket. "I couldn't resist." She gripped the warrior's knee with excitement. "Xena, do you know how good a sun-warmed tomato tastes?!"
Xena watched the bard climb onto the wall. Gabrielle crossed her legs in front of her and grabbed one of the tomatoes. She wiped it off with a rag and handed it to Xena. She cleaned the other one and sank her teeth into it. The juice dribbled down her chin. "Mmmm!"
Xena chuckled heartily at her friend's delight in such simple pleasures. The warrior pulled a knife from her boot and, with dexterity and speed, cut two slices of tomato, a slice of cheese, three slices of cucumber, and two slices of bread.
Gabrielle continued eating the tomato as she watched Xena.
The warrior assembled the cheese and vegetables between the pieces of bread. She lifted it to her mouth. Before she took a bite, she licked her lips in exaggerated anticipation. She bit into the sandwich with gusto. "Mmmm!" She winked at Gabrielle.
The bard laughed. "So, you're not angry with me for taking the vegetables?"
"No, it's a nice change. Our lunches were getting a bit routine." Xena noticed Gabrielle eyeing her sandwich. "You want me to make you one?"
"Would you? It looks delicious."
Xena put down her sandwich. She rapidly prepared another and handed it to Gabrielle.
The bard bit into it and chewed vigorously. "That's what I like about you, Xena," she said with her mouth full.
"You make a nice sandwich."
"You like me for my sandwich?!"
"Well, not just your sandwich. There are so many other things... the way you throw your chakram, your war cry, the way you dispose of useless thugs who get in our way... your eyes...."
Gabrielle blushed. "Nice eyes."
"As nice as my sandwich?"
"Well..." the bard said with mock contemplation. She took another bite. She swung her legs and let her eyes wander over the beautiful countryside. "Oh, Xena, look!"
Xena followed the bard's finger to a small dog that was running toward them. The mutt barked once and jumped up on the wall next to Xena. He barked again.
"He's so cute! He's saying 'hello' to you, Xena. Give him a piece of cheese."
Xena scowled at the animal. "Gabrielle, he has fleas!"
The pup instantly backed up from Xena. He cocked his head at her and growled unimpressively. He jumped down to the other side of the wall and scampered toward Argo. He danced in and out between the horse's legs, sniffing. Argo seemed to give Xena an annoyed look. The horse snorted once. The dog continued to smell Argo's right front leg intently. Argo snorted louder. The pup turned around and started to lift one hind leg. The horse brayed angrily and stamped her foot with such force dust rose from the ground. The dog yelped and shot off. He dashed toward the wall, headed directly at Xena. Seeing her, he yapped again and changed course slightly. He bounded over the wall like a hunter and ran as fast as he could toward the stable. He disappeared behind it.
Xena and Gabrielle laughed so hard tears rolled down their cheeks. Gabrielle held her stomach and leaned back. When she did, her hand missed the wall, and she toppled over into the grass.
Now laughing harder, but also concerned, Xena jumped off and held out a hand to help the bard up. Gabrielle gripped her arm. The warrior was too weak from laughter to pull, however, and fell down almost on top of her. Surprised, Gabrielle's eyes enlarged. Xena grinned broadly, and they both lay in the grass laughing again.
Gabrielle's body jerked, and she opened her eyes. Nicklio was grinding a pestle into a mortar. The bard sat up. "How long have I been asleep?"
Nicklio put down his tools. "About an hour. Try to rest more."
She closed her eyes only to see a vision of Xena's laughing face. She opened her eyes again quickly. Almost of their own accord, her eyes shifted to the corner. She tensed with the shocking reminder of what had happened.
Grief began to settle upon her anew. It felt like fear... but different. 'Oh, no,' she said under her breath. 'I can't go there again right now.' She tried to think of something else.
She looked around the room. For the first time, she saw strings of various drying herbs hanging from hooks on the walls. She noticed the numerous wicker baskets situated randomly in the room, and she made herself try to imagine what they contained. Her eyes traveled up the stem of an iron candle holder. It forked into three arms which held candles. One of the candles had burned itself out. Everywhere in the hut there seemed to be vials, jars, vases, and steins.
The bard watched Nicklio. As he added ingredients to the mortar, he consulted a thick book of potion recipes. She wondered what types of drugs Nicklio had developed. He had used something to dull the pain when he sewed her leg. Perhaps he had something which would deaden the pain in her heart.
Though she was afraid to close her eyes again, she knew she had to rest
if she was going to take Xena to Amphipolis. As if she were bracing for
a blow, she grimaced and slowly shut her eyes. There was only blackness.
She sighed and fell back to sleep.
When Nicklio entered his hut, he saw Gabrielle was still dozing. He held the door open and motioned for someone to follow him. A burly, elderly man stepped inside. Nicklio put a finger to his mouth and pointed toward the sleeping bard. The other man nodded. The healer pointed to the corner.
Both men stepped over to the pallet. The older man pulled a stick from his parka. It was about a foot long. He positioned it on the pallet so the end was even with the top of Xena's head. He carefully flipped it end over end until he reached Xena's feet. "About six," he said in a hushed tone. He made a tick on the stick at the location which was even with Xena's boots. Then he moved to the head of the pallet and repeated the process to measure the width of the warrior's body.
He glanced at Nicklio and then pulled the blanket back from Xena's face. "Strange... even now her face doesn't look peaceful."
"I don't believe she ever found peace," Nicklio whispered.
"How shall I design it?"
Nicklio thought for a second. He picked up Xena's breastplate from beneath the pallet and held it out.
The man took a surprised breath. He touched it gingerly. "Just like..."
"Yes," Nicklio nodded sadly. "Adorn her sarcophagus like you did M'Lila's."
The man tilted his head toward the door. They both walked back outside. It was snowing again, but the wind had died down.
"Nicklio, my sons and I will make the sarcophagus. But, you must know, this is not an easy task."
The healer bowed his head.
"It is because of that woman that my family lost M'Lila. My sons are still bitter... especially because of the dishonor she brought upon M'Lila with her relentless murdering." Nicklio started to speak, but the man went on. "I know... you say she had changed. That may be... but it is still difficult for us."
"I understand, Tyrus. But remember, M'Lila loved this woman so much she was willing to die for her. We must respect M'Lila's loyalty to Xena."
The man dropped his eyes.
"Tyrus, you know M'Lila would want this."
The man nodded and set his jaw. "It will be ready tomorrow." He trudged off through the snow.
Nicklio shed his parka and hung it on a hook near the door. He glanced at Gabrielle. Her eyes were still closed, but her face held an odd expression. He went to her. The firelight revealed that she was having a bad dream. 'Not surprising,' he mused. 'But, fitful sleep will only tire her out more than she already is.' He touched her arm to wake her.
The bard sat up straight.
"You were having a nightmare."
Gabrielle let out the breath she'd been holding and shut her eyes. Tears began trailing down her cheeks. She inhaled with a stuttered shake of her chest and gave Nicklio a pitiful look. "It's my fault," she sobbed.
The healer took her arms in his hands. "No, it's not. Gabrielle, you must let go."
"No!" Gabrielle's eyes closed again and she shook her head sorrowfully. She pushed Nicklio's hands away and stood up. She gazed into the fire for a few seconds. "I'm going to check on Argo."
Nicklio jumped up and lifted her coat from a hook. He held it to her. "Put this on then."
She slipped her arms into the sleeves and pulled the hood up. Before she stepped outside, she grabbed two apples from a barrel.
Nicklio felt his heart tear as he watched the girl exit. She needed to be comforted soon or she might go mad from heartache. Why hadn't Apollo yet attended to this poor young woman?!
Nicklio looked up and sighed. He had done his best to remember everything the god of medicine had taught him. Apollo had chosen him, just as Artemis had chosen M'Lila. He recalled the day, many years ago, when Apollo had asked him to take an oath to serve as his mortal healer. Nicklio had shuddered at the honor. The god had shown him many antidotes for bodily illness and injury. Apollo had also told him there was no earthly treatment for grief. 'Therefore,' Apollo had said, 'I reserve my devine healing powers for the grieving and leave the physical suffering to you and those you care to teach.'
It was evident that the god had not yet granted mercy and solace to Gabrielle.
Argo pressed his nose into Gabrielle's palm. The horse had eaten the apple she'd held out and was looking for another. The bard, lost in thought, hadn't realized the mare was ready for a second piece of fruit. Argo nipped her fingers.
"Hey!" Gabrielle yanked her hand away. "Oh... sorry, Girl." She took the other apple from her pocket. "Here you go."
As Gabrielle stroked the horse's nose, she noticed one of Argo's saddlebags lying against the hay. She saw one of her scrolls protruding from the top. The bard kneeled down in the hay. She slowly withdrew the scroll and unrolled it. Hot tears dropped on the parchment as she recognized the words she'd written a few weeks ago. She slumped down against the wall of the stable. Her first reaction was to push the memories away. "It hurts so much to remember," she said aloud. 'It hurts to dream, it hurts to think, it hurts to feel.' "IT HURTS!!" She screamed so loud Argo reared up and snorted at her.
'If only I could forget,' she breathed. Then, realizing what she'd said, she quickly took it back. She trembled. What would follow forgetfulness? What would remain if she lost her precious memories of the Warrior Princess? She gasped. ...Just emptiness! Wiping away her tears, she focused again on the parchment. With a frantic appetite, she read her own handwriting... 'It was one of the scariest moments of my life...'
Gabrielle threw the last log on the fire and moved back to her blanket. The ground was cold, even through the wool material. She chuckled as she remembered Princess Diana's fear that she'd die of a cold bottom.
She and Xena had just finished their supper. They'd caught trout in a shallow stream near the road to Philippi. Gabrielle was thrilled to have snagged more fish than Xena had... But, then, the Warrior Princess probably LET her. They had talked for a long while after dinner. Xena had said something about the wolves they heard howling in the distance, and it sparked a conversation about Orpheus. Then Xena said they needed more wood and had disappeared into the dark. The fire was burning low. Gabrielle wished the warrior would hurry.
In her spare time, she had been writing a tale about their adventure with Orpheus... and Joxer. Out of habit, she rolled her eyes when she thought of the dear, bumbling idiot.
She hadn't been able to finish the story, however. She was loath to relive the unthinkably frightening emotions which had wracked her mind when her body transformed itself into a would-be bacchae. She knew that part of the story must be written, but she hadn't been able to do it.
Lightening from a far away storm startled the bard. A warm draft blew her hair. Gabrielle wondered if the storm would pass south of them, as Xena predicted it would. She sat back and watched the glowing embers in the core of the fire. The white, red, and yellow colors were hypnotic. A memory of Callisto entered her mind. She shook her head to clear it. Looking around at the shadows, she took a deep breath. She turned her head back to the burning logs and wondered what it would feel like to be consumed by fire.
She closed her eyes and listened to the night sounds. An owl hooted, crickets chirped incessantly, bullfrogs croaked, a wolf growled. A WOLF GROWLED??! Gabrielle froze. The low, rumbling snarl couldn't have been more than ten feet away. She strained to hear something which would confirm or deny her fear.
There it was again! It was closer now, or maybe it was another one. She could hear an animal panting. Trying to remain absolutely still, she looked around for her staff without moving her head. It was against a tree, too far away. Xena's sword was propped against a rock a few feet from her. Could she possibly get to it before this creature pounced on her? Images of the bacchae appeared before her eyes. She tried to blink them away, but her fright only intensified the picture in her mind. She saw ravenous wolves baring their sharp teeth, foaming at the mouth, ready to rip her limb from limb. What should she do?!
"Focus, Gabrielle, focus." she whispered to herself. "Stay calm."
Fire! Animals are afraid of it! She leaped up and grabbed the cold, butt end of a log which extended from the flames. At the same time, she jumped to the opposite side of the fire and crouched low. She held the burning wood in front of her and peered into the darkness. She could hear movement in the bushes, but she couldn't see anything. Her heart beat so loudly she couldn't be sure what she really heard next. She heard... something.
Gods! Where was Xena?! Her eyes widened even more. Come to think of it, WHERE WAS Xena?!!! Maybe the wolves had... No, wolves were no match for Xena. But, oh!... Xena hadn't taken any weapons with her into the woods! And, if Xena WERE okay, the wolves could never have gotten this close to their camp! Gabrielle choked back her terror and waved the burning log in the air. Her eyes darted back and forth across the clearing. She expected at any moment to see crazed wolves flying at her neck.
Gabrielle almost jumped out of her boots. She spun around to see Xena smiling at her through the bushes. The bard's body shook violently. "XENA!!!" She collapsed on the ground.
The warrior stepped into the clearing. "That was the perfect defense, Gabrielle! Animals won't attack fire."
The bard's head hung down, and she struggled to regain her composure.
Xena suddenly realized how badly she'd frightened her friend. "Gabrielle?" She went to her and kneeled. She could almost hear the bard's heart pounding. She placed a hand on her shoulder. "Gabrielle, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you...."
"What exactly were you trying to do then?!!" Gabrielle looked up at her with agitated eyes, her breath still ragged.
Ashamed of herself for not realizing what she'd done, Xena's mouth dropped open slightly. She winced. "I only meant to...."
The bard stood and took several deep breaths. She shook her head and walked to her blanket.
Xena stepped to her own blanket and sat down, not taking her eyes off the bard.
Gabrielle took another deep breath. She frowned with exasperation at the warrior. "Didn't you find any wood?!"
"Yeah," she said sheepishly. She got up and walked to the edge of the clearing. She disappeared into the shadows and then reappeared with an armload of wood. She made another trip and piled the second stack onto the first.
The warrior heaved a large log on the fire. Sitting again on her blanket, she looked cautiously at Gabrielle. The bard sat, hugging her legs against her. Xena lowered her eyes and pursed her lips. She should have known better than to try something like that on such an eery night. "You sure you're alright, Gabrielle?"
"Yeah." After several minutes, she said quietly, "It's okay. I know you were just trying to teach me. I'm okay. I think I'll try to sleep now." She picked up another blanket and pulled it over her as she lay down on her side, facing the fire. Her eyes remained open.
Xena observed her. The color had not returned to her cheeks, and she seemed to quiver every few minutes. Xena cursed at herself. How could she have been so insensitive? She grabbed her own blanket and flung it over her legs. Leaning back on an elbow, she continued to watch the bard. Gabrielle's wide eyes still gazed at the fire.
The warrior kicked her blanket off. She snatched it up and walked around to sit behind Gabrielle. She leaned down, placed her hand on the bard's shoulder, and said gently, "Gabrielle, are you still scared?"
"No... just shaky." She took a deep breath. "Xena, you nearly scared me across the Styx!"
"I know. I didn't think. I'm so sorry."
"I'm not angry, Xena. It's just..." She swallowed. "The worst part was thinking that some wild beast had hurt you."
The warrior blinked at her words.
The bard turned her face toward Xena. "If something happened to you... I'd..."
"I feel the same way about you," the warrior interrupted.
Gabrielle smiled and took a weak breath.
Xena squeezed her arm. "Do you mind if I sleep beside you tonight?"
The bard shook her head.
Xena pulled her own blanket around herself and lay down behind Gabrielle. She rested her head on her arm and placed her other arm lightly over the bard's waist.
After a while, Gabrielle scooted herself closer to the warrior so that her back was against Xena's torso. She turned her soft cheek to the warrior's. "Xena..." she said with a sleepy voice.
"Tomorrow night... I gather the firewood."
Xena grinned against the bard's cheek and nodded.
Gabrielle felt Xena's eyelashes on her skin when the warrior blinked. She pulled Xena's arm around her tighter. At the same time she leaned back more fully into the warrior. Xena untucked her arm from beneath her head and slid it under and around the bard. Lying in the circle of Xena's strong arms, Gabrielle felt completely safe... and loved.
For her part, Xena punched an uninvited thought out of her mind. She made herself think of the most undesirable thing she could... Virgilius!... 'That's better,' she thought, as she felt her body go cold from the disgusting image of sex with the grotesque warlord. She closed her eyes and moved ever so slightly away from Gabrielle.
"What?" Xena's was almost asleep when she heard the bard's murmur.
"That's another thing."
"Another thing?" Xena inquired.
"Another thing I like about you."
Gabrielle snuggled closer against Xena. "Nice arms."
The warrior's eyes were open again. 'Virgilius... Dagnine... Bacchus...'
Priceless Part 2
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text:
YES. The last words spoken by Justice Kennedy in today’s historic ruling are moving and worth sharing:
“No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. In forming a marital union, two people become greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization’s oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The constitution grants them that right.”
In the past year or so I’ve received a handful of emails and messages requesting images from my gratitude project as custom prints or cards. I was always happy to oblige, and at some point realized that this was a great way for people to connect with my work in a way that felt personal. So I’ve added a “Request Custom Work” option on my etsy shop, and wanted to welcome you all to use it! It’s right here, under the “Shop Owner” tab on etsy.
see! that button right there!
You can find the complete catalog of images from the gratitude project here, and you can see all of the card images here. One customer recently ordered these three illustrations (which were all originally cards) to hang in her nursery:
Wise encouragement from 19th Century Irish poet and author Oscar Wilde. It’s a welcome reflection: BE YOURSELF. And as Wilde points to, with humor, who else could you possibly be? I once told a friend that there are many days I feel exhausted being ME. She responded with her steady wisdom, saying, “It sounds like you’re exhausted resisting who you are.” Yes. That’s it. I am often amazed at how much mental energy (thoughts, moods, emotions) go into comparing myself to others, falling short over and over again and solidifying the belief that I am not OK exactly as I am. If I could let go of this belief, BEING MYSELF would feel easy—-like lying back on the grass and yielding to something natural, familiar, safe; like being carried by the wind or the beauty of others, but feeling clear that my basket, my carrier, is a place where I can just be ME.

domain: artistic


Melanie Lynskey is “thrilled” that some people are mad about her casting on The Last of Us, but not when it comes to being body shamed. Earlier this week, Adrianne Curry, the winner of America’s Next Top Model season one, tweeted a photo of Lynskey, not as her The Last of Us character Kathleen, and wrote, “Her body says life of luxury… not post apocolyptic warlord. where is Linda Hamilton when you need her?”
As Lynskey pointed out, the image that Curry shared was “a photo from my cover shoot for InStyle magazine, not a still from HBO’s The Last of Us.” Also, the Yellowjackets actress continued, “I’m playing a person who meticulously planned & executed an overthrow of FEDRA. I am supposed to be SMART, ma’am. I don’t need to be muscly. That’s what henchmen are for.” Muscly and/or beard, but her point still stands.
Curry has since deleted her tweet — and her account. “In criticism of a character I didn’t like in the last of us..the actress screen shotted it and posted it for her fans to BULLY me over an opinion on a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. LOL,” she wrote on Facebook. “Actors and actresses that cannot take criticism of characters they play Is absurd to me.” I would argue that Lynskey was merely stating facts, not being defensive, but go off, I guess.
“I acted in a film that people tore my character to SHREDS. I am not the character. It wasn’t a direct attack. I survived. Anyway, I’m keeping off Twitter till her fans stop berating me for not finding her feminine stature suitable for warlord status. She even cropped out the tweet where I praised her hourglass frame as the PERFECT body in the eyes of most men.”
Lynskey returns in the next episode of The Last of Us, which airs on Friday.
Firstly- this is a photo from my cover shoot for InStyle magazine, not a still from HBO’s The Last Of Us. And I’m playing a person who meticulously planned & executed an overthrow of FEDRA. I am supposed to be SMART, ma’am. I don’t need to be muscly. That’s what henchmen are for pic.twitter.com/YwkmkwUdOm
— Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) February 8, 2023


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Tom Cullen has joined the cast of “Downton Abbey” along with Julian Ovenden, Kiri Te Kanawa and Harriet Walter.
The news comes on the heels of several major cast members’ departures. Jessica Brown Findlay and Dan Stevens both left the show earlier this year. It was also recently announced Siobhan Finneran would not be returning.
Carnival Films and Masterpiece on PBS have also announced that Shirley MacLaine would be returning to the show.
The WME and Scott Marshall Partners-repped Cullen is best known for his starring role in “The Weekend.”


Maintenance Management. Maintenance management is A systematic approach to upkeep and running of resources To keep the resources in a working condition and ensure that they are put to productive use in their life To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the operating System
Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author.While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server.
Cost of maintenance
Impact on the equipment
The general tendency for maintaining a machine is to adopt a strategy of “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it”. This leads to disruption in production, defective parts, delayed deliveries and added costs.
The next stage is “Preventive maintenance” where using some statistical means or historical data failure of machine parts is predicted and before that actually happens you go ahead and replace that part e.g. A bearing or a tool.
Maintenance management to improve productivity and competitiveness in manufacturing firms
Involves zero breakdowns, zero losses and zero accidents
This all leads to zero defects
This new approach is called Total Productive Maintenance.
Basically preventive maintenance with a view of productivity and competitiveness. It is an improvement methodology with the use of employee empowerment
TPM is a Blend of preventive maintenance with the philosophy of TQM


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A twin-tower project called Miami 18 is in the planning stages at the S&S Diner site by Israeli and Chinese developers.
The developers completed the purchase of the property on June 1 for $36 million. ASRR of Israel, CNMB International of China, and G-Resources of Hong Kong each own a third.
According to documents filed with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (first reported by The Real Deal), the project is expected to include:
ASRR’s share price has risen over 30% in Israel in the past year.
the padel courts are excluded from the land assemblage:

domain: news


text:
SEE IT DO IT
- Pamplin Media
- Portland Tribune - Features
ART / Roger Friedel
Through Sunday, March 23, Talisman Gallery
Oil painter Roger Friedel focuses on colorful renderings of abstract realities such as light refraction. Also on exhibit is the work of pastel artist Rob Ramage.
1476 N.E. Alberta St., 503-284-8800, free
PERFORMANCE / 'New Work & Fork'
7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, Performance Works NorthWest
Catherine Egan and Joan Findlay present an evening of creative works with short videos, new dances and a movement theater piece. The dance pieces include 'Fiction,' choreographed and performed by Egan and Findlay to the score of a child's bedtime prayer and the preamble to United States Constitution. Among the films is a work by Imago Theatre mask performer Danielle Vermette titled 'Pharmaceutical Rx.'
4625 S.E. 67th Ave., 503-232-9749, $10
MUSIC / Rob Scheps & Salon des Refuses
8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, Alberta Arts Pavilion
Sax man Rob Scheps fronts a bebop combo bristling with a variety of instruments. Poets Dan Raphael and Margareta Waterman and painter Gage Mace supply some bohemian beatitude on the side.
2315 N.E. Alberta St., 503-282-7700, $6
FILM / 'Waiting for Happiness'
6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, and 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, Broadway Metroplex
This French entry in the Portland International Film Festival has gained international praise and earned inclusion in a number of major festivals including Cannes. The soft and languid film follows the yearnings of a young man living in a tiny seaside village on the Mauritanian coast.
1000 S.W. Broadway, 503-221-1156, $5-$7


Prior to Pitbull taking the stage at a crowded United Center on Tuesday night, fans were greeted with a PowerPoint-styled presentation championing just how many sales, streams and YouTube views he’s amassed since kicking off a continuously flourishing career at the turn of the century. For the majority of entertainers, it would’ve likely come off as bragging or grandstanding, but for the first generation Cuban-American born Armando Christian Pérez, the statistics instead functioned as tangible examples of just how far he’s risen above literal poverty.
In fact, it was that latter segment that chronicled just how deep the star has penetrated pop culture in the last few years alone, a point further personified as the Ne-Yo/Afrojack/Nayer collaboration “Give Me Everything” wound down the confetti-adorned celebration with Pitbull’s ultimate command to simply seize each and every day.
For the next 90 minutes and change, Pitbull frequently revisited the theme of “turning a negative into a positive,” while also sharing his thoughts in between tunes on “bullshit politicians,” immigration and tearing down the walls of racism with music as the universal language. There were also shout outs to Miami Sound Machine for blazing the entire Latin to pop crossover trail, a salute to this particular building of Chicago Bulls champions, plus diverse samples and snippets as wide-ranging as Phil Collins, Guns N’ Roses and Survivor.
Whether it was the opening club banger “Don’t Stop The Party,” its spirited follow-up “International Love” or other infectious selections such as “Rain Over Me” and “Bon Bon,” the headliner fully embodied his “Mr. Worldwide” moniker. Alongside his multi-cultural band (and a sextet of dancers), that spicy fusion of hip-hop, pop and reggaeton continued as virtual flames accompanied “Fireball” and Pitbull’s verbal pyrotechnics tongue-twisted their way through “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho).”
However, not every moment was as connective or effective, especially when style and substance took a backseat to overblown escapism on a few occasions. “Hotel Room Service” served up an overly sexualized double entendre that left little to the imagination, while the barrage of blown-up butts jiggling on the big screens during “Shake” came across as nothing more than a predictable and totally over the top cliché.
The video walls were better utilized when they broadcasted Pitbull’s barrage of duet partners, including Jennifer Lopez (“On The Floor”), Usher (“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love”), Christina Aguilera (“Feel This Moment”) and Kesha (“Timber”). In fact, it was that latter segment that chronicled just how deep the star has penetrated pop culture in the last few years alone, a point further personified as the Ne-Yo/Afrojack/Nayer collaboration “Give Me Everything” wound down the confetti-adorned celebration with Pitbull’s ultimate command to simply seize each and every day.
Click here for more Pitbull photos from the United Center.
For additional information on Pitbull, visit PitbullMusic.com.


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The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has prosecuted leading New Zealand wine company Yealands Estate Wines for what it decribed as deliberate, deceptive and sustained breaches of the Wine Act.
Pleading guilty to a total of 39 charges in the Blenheim District Court were Yealands Estate Wines Limited, the company’s founder and director at the time of the offending, Peter Yealands, former General Manager Winery Operations, Jeff Fyfe and former Chief Winemaker Tamra Kelly.
- Industry could suffer as New Zealanders cut down on wine
- Cheap wines set for price hike amid global shortage
The Company and the three individual defendants were immediately sentenced after their guilty pleas were recorded.
Judge Bill Hastings imposed fines against Yealands Estate Wines Limited of $400,000, Jeff Fyfe of $35,000, Tamra Kelly of $35,000, and Peter Yealands of $30,000.
The charges relate to all parties being complicit in making false statements regarding export eligibility applications, and material omissions in wine records relating to the use of added sugar: a breach of EU market regulation winemaking requirements.
MPI’s Manager of Compliance Investigations Gary Orr said the prosecutions demonstrate that the system governing compliance in the wine industry, works.
"These are the first convictions for offending under the provisions of the Wine Act in New Zealand," he said.
"It is common knowledge in the wine industry that you can’t add sugar post-fermentation to wine destined for the EU market, yet the parties convicted were well aware of what they were doing," said Mr Orr.
He said Peter Yealands was made aware of what was happening at the time but failed to do anything to stop it.
"This is a significant case which has been the subject of a thorough investigation by MPI investigators and a case that took almost two years to complete."
"Of greater significance is the fact it involves one of New Zealand’s leading wine companies that engaged in deliberate deception through the use of falsified records that were designed to deceive routine audit."
He said the records relate to more than 6.5 million litres of wine, and around 3.7 million litres of affected wine was exported to Europe between May 2013 and December 2015.
Mr Orr said that industry should have confidence that MPI, as the regulator, will investigate when it has evidence of offending and will take appropriate action where offending under the Wine Act is detected.
"As a general rule, the wine industry is compliant and law -biding, that’s why this offending is very disappointing."
MPI said the offending was historic and significant changes have been made by the new owners of the company. It said Yealands Estate Wines Ltd have, since the offending came to light, changed their production processes so that all wines are manufactured to EU requirements, regardless of the market in which they are to be sold.

domain: law


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Matthew 22:1-14 The Parable of the Wedding Feast
Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying: 2 “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. 3 He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come.
4 “Then he sent some more servants and said, ‘Tell those who have been invited that I have prepared my dinner: My oxen and fattened cattle have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet.’
5 “But they paid no attention and went off—one to his field, another to his business. 6 The rest seized his servants, mistreated them and killed them. 7 The king was enraged. He sent his army and destroyed those murderers and burned their city.
8 “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. 9 So go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.’ 10 So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, the bad as well as the good, and the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11 “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. 12 He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?’ The man was speechless.
13 “Then the king told the attendants, ‘Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
14 “For many are invited, but few are chosen.”
Have you ever been asked to do something you didn’t want to do? Did you do it anyways, or just say no thank you. In some cases, knowing when to say no is needed, but that all depends on who is doing the asking.
In this parable, Jesus is telling-the King (God) is doing the requesting. If you hold allegiance to the King, you should probably do as asked.
However, as we look at this parable, we see two groups of people- the originally invited guest and the newly invited guest.
The originally invited guest are the people one would expect to be at the Wedding of the Prince, think Nobels and high-class citizens. Well, in God’s wedding feast, you can think of the religious leaders and people who claim to be following the Lord. However, these people not only reject the call, but some of them also harm the messenger as well.
So, the King invites the people off the streets (sinners, everyday people) to join him in his feast.
Many answer the call. Many come. Most come because the King has asked them to come, and they are honored… but one does not. He is not wearing a wedding garment. Why did he come? Free food. Since of belonging. We don’t really know. But we do know he was not properly dressed for the occasion, meaning his heart was not for the King. So, the King has him thrown out.
Many rejected the call. One came unprepared. But some came and celebrated with their King. The call to God’s Kingdom is for all, but not all will accept the call. Even then, some who accept the call are not prepared to fulfill the obligation of Kingdom life (wearing wedding garments for example.)
Faith takes action and obedience.
Friends, which invited guest are you?
1-No, thanks God I have more important things to do?
2-Sure God, but let me come on my own terms (in my own clothing)?
3- I’m there, Lord and willing to do what is requested of me?

domain: literature


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Best Internal Auditing Pros in Guaynabo (PR)
Guaynabo is known as the capital of the sport. It is also referred to as the first settlement in Puerto Ricos (PR). It has a population of about 69,697 people according to the 2010 census. Located within the San Juan area, the town sits on the island of the north coast, and it offers a mix of modern appeal, historical significance and a cosmopolitan vibe.
The town is full of life and has various businesses, organizations and companies that work towards its growth. However, due to the numerous accounting and corporate scandals, the financial crisis and other events t happening, there has been a great need for protection and regulatory acts to be enacted to assure management, investors and individuals of the entities in regards to the operational and financial integrity of these companies.
There has been a need to turn to the internal auditing way, which is an objective and independent assurance and consulting that is mainly meant to improve and add value to organizations’ operations. It is one way that is primarily meant to accomplish organizational objectives by coming up with disciplines, systematic approaches to evaluating and improving the effectiveness of governance processes, control and risk management.
Internal Auditing Pros are the right professionals you can rely on to handle all your auditing needs. With an in-depth knowledge of your business systems, culture and processes, our internal auditing activities will provide you with the total assurance that your internal controls are adequate and in place to help meet all your organizational objectives and goals.
Evaluating emerging technologies
With our team of professionals, they can be able to make the right analysis of the opportunities present, examine the global issues, and assess risks, efficiency, quality, and ethics, of your organization.
When you let our experts hand this on your behalf, you can be sure of getting the right opinions with accuracy and clarity that will give you a broad perspective of your organization. This is one reason that makes us a valuable resource when it comes to executing management and the board of directors to accomplish the overall objectives and goals while also strengthening the organizational governance and internal controls.
Internal auditors’ work is not only to pay attention to past information but also the current operational objectives and future organization success and risk mitigation. In Guaynabo, we are the best company you can rely on when it comes to regulatory compliance. We have a much more diverse background that entails expertise in information technology, data analysis, and finance and even business administration.
Internal Auditing Pros are the best brand you can rely on. Since in the current environment, it could be that challenging for the external audit team to diversify and providing internal audit services and guidance while still maintaining the needed independence that is essential in the review processes. This is why organizations in Guaynabo need to hire our services to ensure a separate internal audit function. With the passion in whatever we do, we ensure that we deliver the best services beyond our customers’ expectations.We look forward to working with you on your next auditing needs.
We service multiple cities throughout the state of Puerto Rico. We provide all the services listed below and more in every city.
If you don’t see your city listed, don’t worry. Just contact us by giving us a call or filling out the form, and we’ll dive deep to discover what are the best solutions for you and your business. See our areas of service:

domain: finance


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The MHRA has reminded prescribers that combined use of pioglitazone and insulin may be associated with an increased risk of cardiac failure, especially in patients with underlying risk factors for this condition.
If the combination is used, patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure, weight gain, and oedema. Pioglitazone should be discontinued if any deterioration in cardiac status occurs.
Rosiglitazone, another member of the thiazolidinedione class, was withdrawn in 2010 in light of evidence linking it to adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Further information: MHRA

domain: biology


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On February 10, State’s Attorney Tom Haine proposed a County Board Resolution which, if adopted, would voice opposition to HB 3653 and call on the Governor to veto it. “With this resolution, the County and other officials can speak with a united voice to this critical issue, urging the Governor should veto this bill and work with all stakeholders to come up with workable reform that doesn’t make our streets less safe,” Haine said. “I hope the Governor listens to our legitimate concerns.” SA Haine will present the resolution, which his office has reviewed and vetted, before the Government Relations Committee on Feb. 16, and if passed, it will move on to the full County Board for a vote on Feb. 17.
Chris Guy, the Chairman of the Government Relations Committee, has already registered his support. “I support Haine’s Resolution, and appreciate his dedication to preserving public safety in our county,” Guy said. “This resolution is a helpful summary of HB 3653’s many flaws. We must support our local law enforcement and urge the Governor to please veto this bill.”
Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler also supports the resolution. “Last week’s shooting of a Metrolink security guard, and other recent acts of violence in Madison County, reinforce the need for strong law enforcement in our community,” Prenzler said. “Now is not the time for hastily conceived changes to our criminal justice system that undermine police and prosecutors.”

domain: sociology


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Elena was born in Ukraine and is now based in Paris. She enjoys Ukrainian rock bands, collects matchboxes, and loves lattes from Starbucks. Eventhough she travelled most parts of the world, she feels at home in Paris : “I love everything here, the architecture, the little streets, the energy. I could just walk around for hours”.
View Elena’s book here

domain: geography


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Why not cook with us - from the comfort of your own kitchen? We're offering a series of online food and drink experiences, all hosted by our Waitrose Cookery School experts. Cook and bake at home, with a host of virtual food events and cookery masterclasses. There is lots on offer, from Pasta to Curry Nights. Children can get involved too with a range of entertaining workshops.
Pursue your passion for food at the Waitrose Cookery School.
If you love preparing and eating good food you’ll love the hands-on approach to learning at the Waitrose Cookery Schools. Whether you’re with us for an hour, an evening or a full day, our talented chefs will inspire you to get creative with quality Waitrose ingredients.
We cater for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, with courses to suit every palate. There’s lots on offer, from street food to Italian classics and bread-making to perfect pastry. Children can get involved too, with a range of entertaining workshops.
- Designated parking provided for guests with disabilities
Children & Infants
- Accept children (Minimum age)
- Accommodation nearby
- Experience level - advanced
- Experience level - beginner
- Experience level - intermediate
- Free car parking
- Fully qualified instructors
- In town/city centre
Parking & Transport
- Disabled parking next to entrance
- On site parking
- American Express accepted
- Maestro accepted
- MasterCard accepted
- Visa accepted

domain: hobby


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Predicted changes in soil organic carbon for croplands 1990–2080. The image on the left shows changes due to climate change only while the map on the right shows changes as a result of variations in net primary production and the advent of new technologies related to crop management (e.g. machinery, pesticides, herbicides, agronomic knowledge of farmers) and breeding (development of higher yielding varieties through improved stress resistance and/or yield potential) that result in yield increases.
Think twice before buying more toys for your children.
Many of them are used only very shortly and then thrown away. Go for high-quality, long-lasting toys that can be used by several generations of children. Selling old toys on a flea market can give your toys a second life and can be much fun for you and the kids.
More green tips

domain: agronomy


Gunwalker's Body Count Grows, Along with the Obama Administration's Cover-Up
House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa was brutally frank in a Tuesday morning conference call with new media representatives dedicated to the ongoing Gunwalker scandal.
The California Republican kicked off the call with a brief statement reporting that Marisela Morales, Mexico's attorney general, now says that at least 200 Mexican deaths can now be traced to weapons from the gunwalking program.That number has been revised significantly upward from earlier unofficial claims of approximately 150 deaths attributed to Operation Fast and Furious guns.
The revelation of the increased body count comes less than 24 hours after the Los Angeles Times published a story that rightly describes the actions of the Obama administration as an unresolved betrayal.
This betrayal -- and Morales pulled no punches in using that exact word -- is being ignored by the majority of the U.S. mainstream media, which vacillate from pretending that Gunwalker was just a minor law enforcement snafu to echoing White House-orchestrated attempts to smear the Oversight Committee chairman and obstruct the investigation.
The question-and-answer period that followed Chairman Issa's statement focused narrowly on Operation Fast and Furious, with only one reporter slipping off-topic to ask a quick question about the breaking Solyndra scandal.
Perhaps the most important clarification to come out of the call was confirmation that the Oversight Committee does indeed intend to call for a special prosecutor once they have completed their own investigation, which they optimistically would like to have wrapped up by the end of the year. Chairman Issa was quick to point out that finishing the House investigation by the end of the year hinged upon a transparent and timely release of information from the executive branch, including the federal law enforcement agencies involved and the Obama White House.
The White House has thus far refused to divulge any of the documentation the congressional investigators have asked for, and the administration's political appointees are stymieing all attempts to get information out of the Justice Department, Homeland Security, and other involved agencies. Rep. Issa seemed quite aware that his goal of resolving the congressional investigation in 2011 was going to be obstructed by an administration in full cover-up mode.
Issa also revealed that the reason a special prosecutor has not yet been brought in to investigate the plot is that once a special prosecutor begins to investigate, the Oversight Committee has to stop its own inquiry. The committee wants to be certain that they have explored every avenue and leave no source or witness uninvestigated before turning over the case. He also pointed out that a special prosecutor will be a Department of Justice employee investigating his own employer. Thus, Issa wants to be certain that they have enough knowledge to hold the prosecutor accountable.


Say what you will about Michael Griffin, NASA’s last Administrator—the guy was a true space cadet, wholly committed to the idea of moving humanity beyond Earth orbit for the first time in 40 years. In fact, he seemed impatient with anyone who didn’t share that commitment. He professed to be driven by data only, and famously joked (in his dry-as-lunar-dust way) “I don’t do feelings. Just think of me as Spock.” I had some sympathy with Griffin on that point. Why should the director of the nation’s space program have to gush like Miss America? Yet his inability to communicate with ordinary terrestrials was his political downfall.
Now comes his replacement, Charles Bolden. An astronaut and Major General in the Marines, the new Administrator has the respect of his peers, an easy manner, and, by his own account, a full set of human emotions. Bolden comes from Earth. And he's aware of societal concerns more pressing than “How do we begin the migration into space?” When he spoke to graduates of the Baylor College of Medicine last May, he invoked AIDS ambassador Nkosi Johnson, not Robert Goddard. Since retiring from the Marine Corps, Bolden has thought about fighting sickle cell anemia and improving education for military children, not figuring out how to land on Mars.
That sense of connection to the world beyond NASA should serve him well in his relations with his new boss. President Obama isn't the only one clamoring these days for NASA to be "relevant," and Bolden would be a fool not to listen. The National Academy of Sciences just called on the agency to align itself with "broader national goals" such as environmental stewardship and economic growth. Obama is especially keen on education. He mentions NASA often (at the end of this speech, for example), but usually in the context of inspiring children to study math and science.
Expect that to be a persistent theme during Bolden's time in office. Norman Augustine, who's leading the current review of NASA's human spaceflight program, also counts education as a vital national need, and don't be surprised if his report also challenges the space agency to help restock the nation's supply of scientists and engineers.
There is one problem, though. NASA can't inspire without doing something inspiring. Bolden admitted recently that, whereas school kids used to answer 'yes' when asked if they wanted to become astronauts, "I may see three hands go up" if he asks the same question today. The great challenge for any NASA administrator in 2009 will be revitalizing human spaceflight on a limited budget. If Bolden (and Augustine) can come up with something clever and cool, young people will line up to participate, just as they did in the 1960s. If they can't, well...if you don't build it, they won't come. In which case Bolden's ability to cry could end up being his most useful skill.


Footy Area compiles the most probable Chelsea XI to play against Bayern on Saturday night. Chelsea are set to continue and probably end their Champions league run when they travel to Germany to face Bayern Munich.
The Blues would have to play at superhuman levels to turn over a 3-0 first leg deficit which they suffered at home to Bayern Munich. Frank Lampard’s team have more than the Everest to climb in order to beat Bayern.
Chelsea’s problems today are just too numerous. Firstly, the three goals they need to recover from is just the beginning. Key players Marcos Alonso and Jorginho will miss out due to suspension, César Azpilicueta, Christian Pulisic, Pedro and Billy Gilmour are seriously injured, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek, N’Golo Kanté and Willian remain doubts for the fixture
Ahead of Saturday’s big Champions League battle, this is the Chelsea XI that should start against Bayern Munich.
Defense Line (Goalkeeper and Defenders)
Willy Caballero (GK) – He played in the reverse fixture back in February, Caballero should start ahead of Kepa.
Reece James (RB) – James is definitely the favorite to start at right back in Azpilicueta’s absence. The Englishman has enjoyed a successful breakout season, making a whopping 36 appearances so far for Lampard.
Kurt Zouma (CB) – With all of Chelsea’s three captains unavailable for tonight, Zouma is most likely getting the nod to lead Chelsea out there. Zouma has been at Chelsea since 2014 and has the painful task of keeping Robert Lewandowski quiet tonight.
Antonio Rüdiger (CB) – Rudiger is the favorite to partner Zouma tonight. The 27-year-old would make his 27th appearance of the season if he starts.
Emerson (LB) – With all other possible solutions out, Emerson should make his 20th appearance tonight on the left flank.
N’Golo Kanté (DM) – Kanté remains a doubt for tonight due to injury, but he must start if he is fit. Chelsea are already without Jorginho and Billy Gilmour
Mateo Kovačić (CM) – Kovacic has perhaps been Chelsea’s standout performer in the center of the park all season. He should start in the middle alongside Kanté.
Ross Barkley (CM) – Ross Barkley can finally see this opportunity as a chance to step and perform well tonight. The long list of absentees means he’s the only option left.
Mason Mount (RW) – Probably the best player for Chelsea this season. Mount is indispensable to the blues, and coupled with his versatility, he can play any where across the front three, and should comfortably slot in at RW.
Olivier Giroud (FC) – Giroud has seriously resurrected back from the dead since the Covid-19 enforced break. He should be the favorite to lead the line ahead of Abraham.
Callum Hudson-Odoi (LW) – With Pulisic, Willian and Pedro’s injured, Hudson-Odoi will get his shot to start on the left wing. The only question is, will he be able to undo Benjamin Pavard?
This football news update is brought to you by the Footy Area team. Do not forget to leave a comment in the comment box below. Also, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and join other fans from around the world on our Telegram channel.
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New & Now: April 29, 2011
Must-read health news and views from around the web
Source: Web exclusive, April 2011
Welcome to New & Now online, your source for the latest findings, innovative products and emerging trends in health, nutrition, beauty and wellness.
Now you can get all the hottest health and healthy-living news from around the web all in one convenient location each and every week. Check back every Friday to find out what we’ve been buzzing about here at Best Health.
Botox users have trouble reading emotions
Don’t expect a Botox user to know how you feel. A new study suggest they have a hard time reading emotions because they are unable to mimic others’ facial expressions. | Time
Parents trust celebrities for medical advice
Who do you turn to for medical advice? Doctors? Medical Researchers? Family and Friends? Or perhaps a former Playboy bunny? | Time
Lay off the sunscreen
A little sun is good for you but many people are not getting enough because they are covered in sunscreen. | Guardian
Looking to really freak out the next person you kiss?
Share an unforgetable kiss. A new lip balm with benzocaine leaves your lips tingling long after the kiss ends. | Fashionista
What stars can teach us about bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder vs. "bi-winning." Revelations from actresses Catherine Zeta-Jones and Demi Lovato and everything that is Charlie Sheen show the different sides of mental illness. | Jezebel
Doctors should be more empathetic’but not too much more
New research shows healthcare workers become less empathetic over time. This helps when they need to cause pain to heal such as in surgery but being more empathetic in some cases will allow for more optimal care. | Scientific American

domain: health


Landscape gardening is really a creative method that brings practical advantages. The science and art of landscaping design entail a lot more than planting bushes and plants. It does take many exploration and time and energy. Which is worth it. In fact, the design of a great surroundings can add around 30% towards the property’s appeal.
Landscape design can make reference to any actions that changes the exterior attributes connected with an established section of property, for example: grass, shrubs and bushes blossoms or crops. It is really an behave of organizing items in ways that makes them operational for their surroundings. Landscapers use landscape designs techniques like shrub elevation, mulching, choice and coloration supervision. The principal objective of your landscaper should be to enhance the physiological attractiveness of the landscaping. To be able to preserve solutions, other goals contain cutting down the expense of running the land through providing a less hazardous environment for folks round the area.
Along with beauty motives, landscaping design is vital. A good way to reduce costs is to grow shrubs and plants in locations where they will likely not develop too quickly, such as all around swimming pools or domestic hot water heaters. An alternate way to reduce costs is by shaping shrubs and planting lawn instead of making use of it as an option to the highly-priced lawn that can be bought with the local nursery. Some gardening tips include growing perennials like marigolds in the home, over the fencing additionally, on the flowerbeds. These vegetation will supply tone for any grass and stop it from being raised.
Landscaping must be an extension within your particular life-style and tastes. It is advisable to begin with a compact format that you could transform or change to match your wants. A lawn situation can consist of the things you want, which can be why you need to think about several aspects in gardening features like lights, pathways and decking right before deciding on the plants. You can use several or as handful of gardening capabilities as you like, providing you hold the price range. Your back yard can even develop into a play ground, so long as you set out of the right elements and ensure the household pets and kids to avoid it.
Crops that will be created for landscaping are very low upkeep but at the top of appearance they come in a variety of level and color. They will either be used in season-circular landscaping or even for precise periods including fall season foliage, new season flowering and summer months situation use. Low care however stunning scenery bushes, floor and shrubs handle for instance ornamental grasses and evergreens are best for landscaping. Many of these can even be useful for outdoor panorama structures just like moving gemstones, rockery or gazebos.
H2o attributes for instance water fountains, swimming pools and waterfalls are ideal landscape design functions for just about any yard. They could are water backyards or organic normal water attributes within your landscaping. The benefit of getting a liquid function as part of your landscape will be to generate soothing out of doors living spaces. In addition to providing leisure for spouse and children and company, a standard water element might also boost the overall appearance of your property. Should you not provide the budget to provide them in your landscaping design task.
Preserving surfaces are well-known landscape design goods simply because they defend the dirt whilst giving satisfactory defense against unwanted pests, deterioration and h2o runoff, standard water capabilities can not be set up. They can also become barriers versus intrusion by unwanted automobiles, nevertheless they may be usually placed in backside yards. Since there are several types of keeping wall surfaces, it is very important figure out the best fabric for your landscape designs job. One example is, natural stone solutions supply the greatest aesthetic look and durability. Concrete choices are long lasting and economical, but they also is unable to successfully stop serious climate and they are susceptible to fail because of the weight.
On top of that, there are numerous landscape designs attributes that one could include things like inside your lawn without raising its price. Some examples are artistic growing beds, which happens to be an excellent way to preserve living space and add more visual appeal on your landscaping design. You may even use planters with flowers and fresh flowers to incorporate a good looking aspect to your property. Water water fountains also are pleasant elaborate landscape gardening objects, in case you don’t have enough area to them, you may decide on synthetic styles. On the other hand, you need to take care not to go crazy with h2o attributes as they are able make your property look also messy and chaotic.
In case you have any kind of issues concerning where and the best way to employ Tree Removal near me https://evergreentreeserviceexperts.com, you are able to e-mail us on our own web page.
Additional tips from highly recommended publishers:


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This year, we got a little unlucky for the Bluefire Street Festival because it was ☔ the whole day. So, fair play to festival organisers, volunteers, festival-goers and street performers who put up with the rain!👏On the main stage, there were a little luckier as they were sheltered from the rain.
However, this didn’t prevent us from attending it and it was enjoyable despite the bad weather conditions.
I have taken pictures of the programme from this year’s festival as well as street art murals, circus performers on stilts, a stage music performance (Ronix), a youth talk from the Girl Crew and the welcome tent. Take a look at this slideshow to view the pictures. If you’d like to find out more information about the performers at BlueFire Street Festival, take a look at their website.
I have also filmed this new school hip-hop street dance performer that replaced Sam Gabriel. If you’d like to follow Des Ebelle on Facebook as well, check his page here.
Finally, I spent most of my time watching the Venezuelan singer Ronix featuring Allegro andante band on the main stage playing Latin fusion sounds like merengue, bachata… Their infectious latino rhythms kept us on our feet!
If you would like to follow them, you can find them on Facebook at Ronix and Allegro andante show band.
I have filmed two long videos and a shorter one, which I hope you will enjoy!
If you have taken more pictures or videos, share their links with us in the comment box below!
If you would like to watch the festival for the 2015-year edition, check my other blog post. That year, the organisers got luckier with the weather, so more people attended the event. I was also able to take more pictures and film more performances. So, enjoy!

domain: entertainment


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Fiona Mountain grew up in Sheffield. She currently lives in the Cotswolds with her family. She is an author and former press officer at BBC Radio 1. She is the creator of 'Natasha Blake', a genealogist and ancestor detective. She also writes historical novels. Visit also this site.
Titles and year of publication:
|1) Pale As the Dead||2002|
|2) Bloodline (Mary Higgins Clark Award)||2004|


|Features Description||Meets or exceeds all DOT3 and DOT4 brake fluid requirements. High-temperature formula resists fade, and also conditions seals and o-rings in braking system. 12 oz. / 355 ml|
|Format (XPS)||12 fl. oz. / 355 ml|
|Liquid type||Brake & Clutch Fluid|
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Increasingly, the medical profession is recognizing the important role which good nutrition can play in a number of serious medical conditions — including cancer. This recognition, in part, is due to anecdotal evidence of people who have successfully helped treat their cancerous condition with a proper diet.
One example of this is the case of Chris Wark, who at the age of 26 was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. While he did undergo surgery to help treat this, he opted out of chemotherapy and instead decided to treat his condition with diet. He remains cancer free to this day.
Chris Wark’s diet can best be described as “raw vegan”, and emphasizes a large variety of uncooked fruits and vegetables. It is important to note that the salad below has no meats, cheeses, eggs or commercially prepared salad dressing. It is also important to note that Wark does not eat raw fruits and raw veggies together, though he does include them both in his diet throughout the day. He maintains that 6 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables is perfect to help the body heal itself from cancer. He is a strong proponent of foods like the salad whose recipe is given below and which is full of dietary fiber and antioxidants that can help the body to combat this disease.
The Recipe for Cancer-Fighting Salad
- Dark leafy green vegetables
- Broccoli or broccoli sprouts
- Leeks, sliced
- Artichokes, chopped
- Zucchini, cut into medallions
- Mushrooms, chopped
- Onions, diced
- Purple cabbage, shredded
- Cauliflower, chopped
- Avocado, chunked
- Peppers (yellow, green or red), cut into thin strips
- Squash, cut into thin medalllions
- Sprouted sunflower seeds, almonds, mung beans, garbanzo beans and lentils
Toss these vegetables together to make the salad. This can be topped with a fermented food like sauerkraut, onions or pepper. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics can help to nourish and replenish the natural bacteria which live in the gut and which play an important role in immunity and general health. Dress the salad with a homemade vinaigrette consisting of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and chopped fresh oregano, garlic, turmeric and cayenne pepper.
Additional Dietary Information
Chris Wark also recommends that, in addition to salads like the one listed above, a person using diet to fight off cancer should also consume foods which contain quercetin. Quercetin is a powerful flavonoid, a plant-based compound which in several scientific studies has been shown to have anti-carcinogenic properties. It protects DNA from mutations which can foster tumor growth and also has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can also help prevent cancer development. The best sources for this flavonoid include red- or purple-colored fruits and vegetables like apples, red onions, tomatoes, raspberries and cranberries, as well as citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables.
In conclusion, for those who are trying to treat cancer naturally, dietary changes like the ones discussed above are certainly options worth considering, with or without more conventional treatment. The combination of surgery and a raw vegan diet has kept Chris Wark healthy. The salad recipe he recommends is certainly a healthy one and would be great for anyone whether they are a cancer patient or not due to the high amount of fiber and other nutrients to improve the body’s overall health.
About the author:
Sandeep Godiyal Founded Godiyals.com, Godiyals.com is to make search process quicker and Easier and Help you find best Travel deals from 100s of travel site with just one click.

domain: food


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Nellie Fox Signed Wilson Advisory Staff Photograph
Rare Wilson promotional piece from the early 1960‚s featuring Hall of Famer Nellie Fox and his mouth full of tobacco. 8x10" black and white photo reads, "Member - Advisory Staff Wilson Sporting Goods Co." as well as his facsimile signature. This fine example however was signed by Nelson in 8/10 blue ink. Has a few creases and an unfortunate hole above Fox‚s right shoulder; still presents well.
Past Sports Card, Memorabilia, Non-Sports Card and Collecitble Auction Items
Other past auction items that may be of interest to you.

domain: history