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Due to some last minute cancellations, we had no taxi reserved upon landing at the Bandaranaike International Airport at 4 a.m. We prepared ourselves for some serious negotiating but that was not necessary: as soon as we walked into the arrival hall, there were several companies offering taxi services with prices written on sign boards. We used the Bandaranaike International Airport Taxi Service (when you arrive, the first company on your right) and the fixed price to Dodanduwa was 8740 Sri Lankan rupees (about 55€/58USD) for an AC van. In addition we paid 300 and 400 rupees for the use of two highways: Colombo-Katunayake Expressway and Southern Expressway. Plus some tip.
My husband and our daughter fell asleep very soon while I watched the night turn into morning. Black became pink, moist air created fog and I could see silhouettes of birds against a rising sun. It was all very pretty and I wondered if this is what the depiction of Garden of Eden looks like.
Sea Shine Guesthouse, where we arrived three hours later, turned out to be exactly or even better than we had imagined. Our room was very clean, came with a mosquito net and direct sea view. Like often in Sri Lanka (based on what we saw during our 15-day trip), the bathroom was the weakest part of the room, but it was clean and that was the main thing. We had reserved a non-AC room and as the house was built according to traditional Sri Lankan style, there was natural ventilation (but very few mosquitoes!) making it very nice to fall asleep while listening to the ocean.
Breakfast options were either Western or Sri Lankan and we opted for the latter (but it had to be ordered the night before). Delicious! We moved very little from our hotel, just wanted to relax, so we had lunch and dinner every day at the hotel. Mr. Sunil’s (the owner of the guesthouse) son Roshan took care of the cooking together with his mother, and everything was fresh, tasty and copious. We ate everything and never had any problem… Our daughter became a big fan of pappadums and expanded her palate to devilled chicken, fried noodles, grilled lobster, octopus, stringhoppers, dal, pumpkin curry and sambar.
In overall, we had a relaxing and lovely stay at Sea Shine Guesthouse. Of course it is a homestay, do not expect 5-star service, but we felt that the family went out of their way to make our stay comfortable. They played with our daughter, they taught her how to feed aquarium fish and always made sure she had what she needs for meals. There is no high chair but we had ours. In terms of sightseeing, there are a turtle hatchery nearby in Kosgoda (we didn’t visit), Galle (we visited from our next destination) and Hikkaduwa (we took a tuk tuk and returned by the beach). We appreciated the fact that there are some activities and towns nearby, but that the location of our guesthouse was very quiet (Hikkaduwa beach is very busy!). The beach was super clean, there were no beach boys and at night we only heard waves. Perfect! My husband went for a swim but I didn’t dare. I don’t estimate that the beach is safe for children to swim in, but most of the beaches in Sri Lanka aren’t. One should always ask locals what the sea condition is that specific day (sadly, a tourist drowned during our stay in Dodanduwa).
Should you be interested in Sea Shine Guesthouse, I recommend you to contact them directly. I didn’t get response to my email, so the best is to contact them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sea-shine-Hikka-1548810175394587/ (type “Sea shine Hikka” on Facebook if the link doesn’t work) or by WhatsApp / cellular phone +94-71-9725703. Facebook and WhatsApp messages are responded by Mr. Sunil’s friendly daughter Dily (say hello from me 🙂 ). We (2 adults and a toddler) paid 5500 Sri Lankan rupees per night for a nice non-AC room (number 2), including breakfast, and in the end we were given the room for 5000 rupees. Websites like Booking.com etc have higher prices, so contact the guesthouse directly!
Sea Shine Guesthouse: http://www.seashinehikkaduwa.com
To read the first post about our Sri Lanka trip, see Planning Sri Lanka: Itinerary |
Hay fever allergies, also recognized as respiratory allergies surprising affects of the young children in America. To ones surprise, hay fever allergies are seldom associated to hay or cause a fever, nor does a virus induce hay fever allergies. With the staggering percentage of children being affected by allergies, healthcare understanding of how to treat hay fever and respiratory allergies remains restricted.
The nail can be filed down and trimmed cautiously, either at household or by a podiatrist. If the infection is gentle and a great deal localized then to treat toenail fungus a medical professional may perhaps recommend a medicated nail polish containing either Loceryl or Loprox. If the infection persists or carry on spreading then a medical professional could prescribe an oral, systemic anti-fungal medication such as Sporanox or Lamisil. The remedy could requires about 12 weeks. Each of these drugs have some incredibly damaging effects that may possibly not be suitable for some folks.
Read More – What Is Population Health
If your child has been diagnosed with respiratory allergies, there are quite a few items you can do in your dwelling to help reduce the symptoms. Eliminating as a lot dust and pollen from inside the home can make a large difference in the severity of allergy attacks. It is not just the dust you see in the air or on desktops that causes difficulty. There is also dust hiding in carpets, furnishings and bedding.
Toenail fungus, also known by the term onychomycosis, is an ordinary condition that disfigures and even demolishes the toenail. The significant toe and the small toe are the nails that are most likely to be impacted by toenail fungus. This condition is caused by any a single of the several varieties of fungi that create in moist and warm surroundings, particularly in the shoes. As they rise, they invade and feed on the protein that creates really hard surface of the toenail.
A single may perhaps notice stinking debris beneath the nail.
Toenail fungus turns to be a chronic condition, and if it is not aching, various people today do not get remedy. However, to treat toenail fungus, men and women with unrelieved illness like diabetes ought to see a physician if they develop into conscious of adjustments in their nails as it may well be an indication of a lot more really serious issues. If the nail turn out to be pretty thick and it is hard to wear shoes and 1 really feel discomfort whilst walking then a single really should stop by a medical professional.
Toenail fungus is unusual in kids, however, the probabilities becomes extra as one’s age increases. Roughly 48% of people today in the United States have at least one particular toe impacted by the time they are 70 years of age The uncomfortable tight fitting shoes and layers of nail polish enhances the danger of rising toenail fungus. It can also spread particular person-to-particular person in public places, such as locker rooms and showers. Getting a chronic situation that have an effect on a circulation, such as diabetes or HIV also enhances your danger. The affected nail will come to be stained and will turn quite thick and overgrown. One particular may perhaps notice stinking debris under the nail. The nail may possibly disintegrate and in the end fall off completely, or it may perhaps grow to be so thick that it is incredibly painful to put on shoes.
Read More – Bachelors In Health Administration
If a fungal infection turns into scratchy, it is sufficient to appear for healthcare treatment so that a physician will examine the toenail and could take little samples. The nail can be scrutinized for fungi or some other infection beneath a microscope in the lab. Every time these antibodies recognize the identical invading allergens histamine is released into the bloodstream causing irritating hay fever, respiratory allergies symptoms. There are two principal types of allergies: seasonal allergies (spring through fall) and perennial allergies (all-year lengthy).
La Fitness Houston Locations – Each of these drugs have some quite dangerous effects that could not be suitable for some folks. The nail can be scrutinized for fungi or some other infection below a microscope in the lab. |
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Archive Version 4.4 Jan 1998
This essay demonstrates the importance of checking every uncircumcised boy,
for phimosis, frenulum breve and adhesions, before puberty. These conditions
anatomically inhibit the relationship between the foreskin and the glans, particularly
when the penis is erect. This often causes pain and other problems during puberty,
or when making love.
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THE PASSAGES TO MANHOOD
Among young children, the practical difficulties which the congenital conditions present, are from severe degrees of phimosis resulting in ballooning (spraying, wet trousers, etc.), or infection. A longer period of ballooning or infection appears particularly undesirable. In the infant, ballooning is widely reported to result in a weak bladder.
Regarding infections, they develop well in hot moist enclosed environments, one ideal area being between the foreskin and glans. It seems once infections have occurred, the area is then vulnerable to reoccurrences. A child is conscious of such intimate problems and finds them disturbing. The psychological nature of such disturbances requires a deeper study, it is beyond the scope of this essay.
In Europe today, many operations occur once puberty has started. A number of the problems arise simply because boys masturbate and the rubbing action of a phimosis repeatedly passing over the coronal ridge of the glans, causes soreness, which may subsequently develop into inflammations or infections. Many reports from men without any infections, describe masturbating painfully for several years.
Rare, but significant is a paraphimosis: when the phimotic ring gets stuck behind the glans, causing the glans to swell up. This is considered to be a medical emergancy. To summarise: All the above complaints are caused by relatively mild degrees of phimosis, and such mild degrees are usually discovered at puberty.
Bettelheim reports a boy whose "painful adhesions interfered with full functioning
of the penis." (12). Adolescents
with adhesions often report consciously avoiding the pain inherent
in their erections. It seems that the imminence of pain from adhesions
always leads to their discovery at puberty.
The experience of pain, difficulty, or the proximity of pain is a common one. It can endure for several years, sometimes until adulthood, before a youth feels confident or aware enough to be able to approach a doctor.
When a boy is left to discover such pain and other problems in his first active erections, it means that a considerable percentage of boys who are not routinely checked, are going to have a fully distorted first impression of sex and manhood. An absurdly mismanaged and senseless puberty ritual.
See Peter S. : An Expert
It is not necessarily the severe conditions which have the worst effects. A severe phimosis can be discovered within the first months of a child's life, a phimosis which is not visible when flaccid, can cause mild or avoidable difficulties throughout life, eventually being treated as the skin shrinks in old age.
With both phimosis and frenulum breve, the final recognition of the condition may follow a conscious experience of pain or difficulty. This often occurs during a youth's first intimate relationships, because here the erection, penetration and ejaculation are not exclusively controlled by his own hands.
When making love the effects of a phimosis
or frenulum breve are unavoidable particularly when attempting to
penetrate, an act which normally requires the retraction of the foreskin.
With moderately tight degrees of phimosis (when the vagina is unlubricated
and unrelaxed), the foreskin will ruffle up in a turtle neck making
penetration impossible. (The
Kinsey Institue's advice on this is questionable)
With the frenulum during love making, a full retraction of the foreskin is often unavoidable, this strains the frenulum breve and can cause the frenulum to suddenly rip. Sometimes this merely arouses curiosity, at other times the reaction is of panic and shock. When the frenulum breve does not rip, it will either hold the foreskin forward, or it will cause pain and tension. It is apparent that many men do not realise that there is a simple surgical cure for this.
It appears that the first love experiences of a considerable number
of our culture's young people, are distorted and disturbed through
these congenital conditions. It may be an exaggeration, but one surgeon
tells us that men between 20 and 30 years old, with a frenulum breve
or phimosis, "always complain that the operation was neglected in
An expert Urologist in this field, Dr. Hartmut Porst wrote "it is
not uncommon,... that a phimosis is not at all consciously realised
by the carrier until the first act of love". (9).
The conditions are defined as causing pain and difficulty, yet some
of the men are not aware of any difficulty, why this inconsistency?
People Avoid Pain
To summarise an answer: It is normal and healthy for people to avoid pain and difficulty and people develop habits.
There are hundreds of different degrees and combinations of phimosis and frenulum breve. All these conditions have specific behavioural consequences, however some parts of the development can be generalised.
The lack of awareness probably originates previous to puberty, through painful experiences with adhesions. Ultra-sound pictures have shown that baby boys have erections in the womb. Reports from parents indicate that a boy who is free of adhesions, may start innocently playing with his erect penis (with foreskin retraction), at the age of one month old. For a boy who has adhesions, his sexual learning process commences with the restricting sensation of pain from adhesions.
Once the adhesions release, these early impressions may become confirmed by the effects of phimosis or frenulum breve. Men with severe phimosis often never experience any pain, they simply find retraction impossible. With the frenulum breve retraction can involve uncomfortable or painful experiences.
In many cases, with phimosis and the frenulum breve, the individual is not consciously aware of an inability to (fully) retract the foreskin, it is simply not desirable, it is considered as unnecessary. A normal boy accepts his body, and grows accustomed to it without worrying. He believes that his condition is normal and healthy, and he is unaware that he has any limitation which requires treatment.
One man who I spoke with, after describing how he washed under the foreskin with an extreme phimosis, (by flushing the area out with a squeezing action), told me he thought that "everyone's normal, we're all just a bit different".
The behavioural habits which can develop as a result of this anatomical restraint are easiest to appreciate by considering masturbation. It is generally accepted that the most normal method of masturbating, is by moving the foreskin. With these conditions a freely movable foreskin at the same time as a full erection is impossible.
This lack of freedom of movement is similar to a man who is fully circumcised, but whereas the latter is limited, he is not constrained. A boy with these conditions develops a sexual relationship with himself which is to some extent determined by an anatomical disturbance or handicap; in addition to which he often believes that this disturbance is normal, and does not realise that he has any handicap.
Masturbation occurs throughout puberty previous to any relationship. It could be argued that a male's ability to develop a relaxed relationship with his body and his manhood is based on feeling himself and especially masturbation.
See Adhesions and Early Learning
See Beauge M.D. for further details
The Blind Spot
With these hands
we build this world and we explore our possibilities
we feel for identity on our first steps in the dark
we compensate reality and complement it with fantasy
Thus establishing the extent of our possibilities.
People avoid pain and difficulty. A man with these conditions is unable (with any ease) to reveal his full physical manhood, therefore logically this also affects his perception of his own manhood, and his self image as a man.
With this blind spot, any re-education is difficult. The carrier is not as aware of himself and he is probably not as interested generally in pictures, information or education about the male phallus. (On seeing pictures of the phallus with a retracted foreskin, I automatically thought that such men must be circumcised).
If a boy with these conditions does have any interest in his phallus, any recognition of or belief he establishes in his sexual identity, would be based on a misunderstanding and misinterpretation of his full potential, (it would be based on the misconception that the foreskin is designed to remain forward or cause pain).
This anatomical inhibition functions in a similar manner to the generally understood emotional inhibition. Anyone with any sort of inhibition does not experiment as freely in that area, he does not discover, he is simply not as aware of the area.
Letters I have received show that any seed of awareness may be simply repressed. A young man of 20 wrote: "I realised that something was different about age 10 when other kids' could expose their glans and I couldn't. It was disturbing at the time...but I was still young...so I forgot about it." Another man of 23 wrote "Up to now I had never really thought of it in terms of something that I could cure, but rather just live with."
Human ingenuity is so creative that when a problem is conscious, an individual has the choice of confronting it, and can even turn it to some greater strength. On the other hand, when unknown to the individual, he's fighting his own closest friend, how many self deceptions would he accept in order to maintain a sense of integrity?
When the ambassador of his love can't sense the situation
His confidence will be untrustworthy
His messages will be unsure.
Was it innocence or ignorance which led to these consequences?
There are many cases where it is impossible to prove anything, simply because the men concerned have had few sexual experiences which they could relate. There is good reason to believe that the difficulties involved may in some cases directly inhibit the sex drive.
One case of extreme phimosis told me that he had never masturbated or had any
interest in sex previous to his operation. Beauge
M.D. reported "Some boys never masturbate! We may doubt their assertions,
but the tightness of their phimosis suggests their statements are correct."
It is apparent that the lack of freedom of movement from a tight phimosis restricts
sexual expression and activity, but to what extent? - Circumcised men also have
little freedom of movement, yet this does not inhibit their interest in masturbation.
When asked about his sexual interests, one man answered that the woman's pleasure was more important, it is a great sadness that for over twenty five adult years he had had no intimate relationship.
Considering the amount of men who discover a phimosis on their wedding night, it is worth considering if this condition could even contribute to the choice to wait for sex, until marriage. One man commented "I don't have any sexual experiences to tell you since I'm still a virgin...I'm one of those guys who waits until marriage."
David wrote "The inability
to retract my foreskin led me to make incorrect assumptions about myself, including
the idea that I was never meant to have sex." He points out the obvious: "both
men and boys can - over time, adapt their beliefs and thinking patterns to accommodate
their anatomical conditions."
One man wrote "I experienced a big lack of self confidence and self esteem"
He could only guess the extent to which such psychological
repercussions were anatomically determined. Another told me he had often
wondered if his phimosis had anything to do with his lack of emotions.
It seems that the only reported case history of this type of development,
comes from Bryk, an anthropologist. He writes "the entire schizoid
inferiority complex of a young man, could be traced to his inability
to manually uncover his glans." The young man "suffered from a congenital
phimosis, which he unfortunately recognised too late," (15)".
The relationship a boy develops with his own genitals, is such a fundamental force that it modifies his entire sexual reference framework. This underlies every post puberty sexual experience.
As with any other subconscious disturbance, after years of insinuation, this has very real and fundamental effects on a man's emotions, behaviour and his feeling for life. These 'conditioned' behaviour patterns, emotional responses and social attitudes support and confirm each other, they become part of the personality,
One psychologist at the Institute of Sexual Research in Hamburg
informed me that they have seen many men who believed that their frenulum
breve condition was the cause of their sexual disturbances. There
appears to be some difference in opinion as to how this should be
interpreted. When it was sugested that these men may be correct in
their assumptions, the answer was that this is not the case because
"... they had it cut away and then there was no change in their disturbances" (61).
Surgery cannot be expected to change ingrained personality traits and self images in any significant way. (An awareness of the nature of any disturbance is always a good first step towards resolving such problems).
The psychological effects, are obviously not exclusively due to an anatomical problem. These effects are relative to and influenced by all the other experiences in life (from upbringing etc.). Each condition exaggerates the particular patterns of an individual's personality in its own way. They magnify any tendencies of a similar nature, and undermine any incompatible healthy response.
This makes it very difficult to define the psychological developments in any absolute terms. All that can be said, is that in the advanced stages these conditions are compatible with shyness, anxiety, frustration and privacy, and they are incompatible with a relaxed sexuality, openness and leading a simple life.
At the very least these conditions could never support and would always undermine fulfilment and sexual confirmation as a man.
When the magic of a man is unconsciously in a state of bondage, who can say exactly where this may lead his sexual energy? The ability to share and satisfy himself and others is restricted. His intimacy with his own body reflects in any and every close relationship. Without this intimacy and the integration with himself and others, the wholeness (and wholesomeness) of a man is missing.
See Diary of an Initiation
See Dave's Letter
An Appropriate Initiation
It appears that in today's European culture, there are a percentage of men who experience an initiation ritual, which is definitely more ignorant and sometimes more bizarre than any of the ancient circumcision rituals which Stone Age man practised.
Is it merely a curious coincidence that circumcision in ancient times "is almost invariably performed before or at the age of puberty, or at latest before marriage."? It appears that the primitive intelligence realised the sense in establishing some measure at an age previous to when the problems occur.
With our culture's attitudes on medicine, it would be appropriate to monitor and if possible try to prevent any potential difficulty in good time, rather than treating the problems after they have arisen.
Among all the problems which people have, this must be one of the most ignored and the easiest to solve.
A boy's penis must be checked in childhood. |
If you went to college or lived near a campus bar, you're undoubtedly familiar with a drink similar to a sake bomb or cement mixer that involves one shot each of Baileys Irish cream liqueur and Irish whiskey are dropped into a pint glass of Guinness stout, and some poor soul downs the entire concoction before the drink can curdle, often while standing on top of the bar. Yowza.
Now, a coed liver might be able to handle that potent combo, but mine certainly cannot, and this weekend I fear being cornered by an overzealous St. Patrick's Day reveler. So when in peril, fight fire with cupcakes!
The brilliance of this recipe is that it both layers and melds the flavors of each liquor, just like the drink that it's based on. The whiskey in the ganache is sharp and bracing, the Baileys soothes as buttercream frosting, and the Guinness gives a moist, malty texture to the chocolate cake.
Of course, if you're not in a boozy mood (or if kids are present), you can leave out the whiskey and Baileys and just ensure that the alcohol cooks off sufficiently in the first step. But for a sweet drink substitute, these cupcakes sure are a shot of wonderful.
- 1 cup stout (such as Guinness)
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Irish whiskey (optional)
- 3 to 4 cups confectioner's sugar
- 3 to 4 tablespoons Baileys (or milk, or heavy cream, or a combination thereof)
- Green sprinkles, for garnish (optional)
- To make the stout cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 24 cupcake cups with liners. Bring 1 cup stout and 1 cup (2 sticks) butter to simmer in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add cocoa powder and whisk until mixture is smooth. Cool slightly.
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in large bowl to blend. Using electric mixer, beat eggs and sour cream in another large bowl to blend. Add stout-chocolate mixture to egg mixture and beat just to combine. Add flour mixture and beat briefly on slow speed. Using rubber spatula, fold batter until completely combined.
- Divide batter among cupcake liners, filling them 2/3 to 3/4 of the way. Bake cake until tester inserted into center comes out clean, rotating them once front to back if your oven bakes unevenly, about 17 minutes. Cool cupcakes on a rack completely.
- To make the whiskey ganache filling: Chop the chocolate and transfer it to a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until simmering and pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for one minute and then stir until smooth. (If this has not sufficiently melted the chocolate, you can return it to a double-boiler to gently melt what remains. 20 seconds in the microwave, watching carefully, will also work.)
- Add the butter and whiskey (if you’re using it) and stir until combined.
- Fill the cupcakes: Let the ganache cool until thick but still soft enough to be piped (the fridge will speed this along but you must stir it every 10 minutes). Meanwhile, using your 1-inch round cookie cutter or an apple corer, cut the centers out of the cooled cupcakes. You want to go most of the way down the cupcake but not cut through the bottom — aim for 2/3 of the way. A slim spoon or grapefruit knife will help you get the center out.
- Put the ganache into a piping bag with a wide tip and fill the holes in each cupcake to the top.
- To make the Baileys frosting: Whip the butter in the bowl of an electric mixer, or with a hand mixer, for several minutes. You want to get it very light and fluffy. Slowly add the powdered sugar, a few tablespoons at a time.
- To frost the cupcakes: Once cupcakes have cooled, spread or pipe Baileys frosting evenly across all 24 cupcakes. Garnish with green sprinkles, if desired.
Makes 24 filled and frosted cupcakes.
- Desserts, Cupcakes
- North American |
Don’t Let Diabetes Take Control Of Your Life
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then you know that you must now live a little bit differently than you did before the diabetes. Along with checking your blood sugar regularly, a healthy diet is vital to managing your diabetes. This article will give you some tips for eating a healthy diabetic friendly diet.
To help you better control your blood glucose levels, consider using an insulin pump. Insulin pumps offer you more flexibility if you have an unpredictable schedule. Talk to your doctor to find out if an insulin pump can help you better regulate your blood glucose levels and take control of your diabetes.
To make sure you get the most out of your doctor’s appointments, write down questions before the appointment. A doctor is a great resource to anyone suffering from diabetes, and you should make sure to take full advantage of their knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask for lots of information. Your doctor will be happy to help you better manage your condition.
When you are testing your blood glucose levels, take the time to wash your hands properly before you perform the test on yourself. Use an antibacterial soap that is mild in nature so that you keep your fingertips moist. This will make the test much more effective and your hands more moisturized.
Choose appropriate footwear when you have diabetes to reduce the likelihood of foot problems. Diabetics are prone to foot problems because of reduced circulation and sensation, so wearing appropriate shoes is vitally important. Stay away from synthetic materials, especially tight or unventilated shoes and try to find natural materials such as cotton or leather.
A great before bed snack for a Diabetic is a glass of skim milk with two tablespoons of Whey protein added. This gives you something to keep your blood sugar levels stable over night, while the protein will help the milk digest and keep it from spiking your blood sugar too high while you sleep.
If you are diabetic, make sure that you take care of your teeth and gums. This is extremely important, because diabetics are at a higher risk of becoming victim to gum disease. Brush and floss, at least twice a day, and visit your dentist twice a year. Make sure your dentist is aware of your diabetes diagnosis.
To reduce your risk of heart disease, carefully monitor your triglyceride cholesterol and blood pressure levels. One of the most common complications of diabetes is heart disease, and the best way to avoid that risk is to set goals for all of these levels and then, stick to them. Ask your doctor where your levels should be.
As stated at the beginning of this article, if you have been diagnosed with diabetes then you are having to live a little bit differently than you did before the diagnosis. Eating healthy is an important part in keeping your diabetes under control. Apply the tips from this article and you will be on your way to eating a diabetes friendly diet in no time. |
If your carpet requires deep-cleansing, it is best to decide on knowledgeable cleansing company. Many individuals think that simply because they can purchase a ton of carpet cleansing products on the store that they can effectively clean every part on their carpet. This is not true. CRI-licensed cleansing technicians have the best carpet cleaning training and products to help your carpet look like new.
When hiring your carpet cleaning firm, ask about any extra expenses. Many companies provide cleaning of some rooms for a base price, however there are various extras that aren’t included in that value. Things like excessive traffic areas, excessive staining, areas with stairs and even particular types of carpets may cost a little you further. Avoid surprises by discovering out about these items upfront. Choose a carpet cleaning company that has a a refund/satisfaction guarantee. There are a lot of corporations out there that provide nice guarantees, along with promotions. Looking for an organization that has these you will provide you with a sense of safety that they may do a great job or they will refund your cash.
Be certain and do a little bit of research when considering which carpet cleansing company to rent. Don’t simply take their word for it. Relatively, consult with on-line interviews to get precious feedback from previous clients. This will let you see what kind of job this firm is able to. The first thing that it’s best to test is whether the cleaning firm is certified or not. Don’t allow them to in if they can’t present you this documentation. They should be accountable enough to have this documentation readily available at all times. If they don’t, then they are possible not a good firm to do business with.
How do you find an awesome firm to get the job done?
Rent a carpet cleaner for one room. As an alternative of getting a carpet cleaner to wash the whole house, begin with one space. That way, you’ll spend much less money. You will also get to see what their work seems like. If they do welll, you can hire them again to clean your different carpets. Nail polish stains may be onerous to eliminate. The best way to get rid of nail polish stains is to use some dry cleaning solvent to the stain, some dish washing detergent, vinegar or some laundry detergent on the stain. Mix any of these merchandise with some water, apply it on the stain and blot.
When cleaning your carpet, just be sure you take away all of the large objects like toys and furniture. The very last thing that you just need to do is to miss a spot with quite a lot of dust as a result of something was protecting the realm. It will make it easier to turn into more environment friendly with cleansing. Try any firm you’re considering with the Better Enterprise Bureau, or the BBB. The BBB regulates how companies are run and keep data of any complaints. You can look on-line to learn how nicely an organization ranks with the BBB earlier than contracting them to do any give you the results you want.
You possibly can easily do away with small grease stain with some carbonated water or some shaving cream. Apply some shaving cream or carbonated water over the stain and gently blot the sides of the stain before progressing to the middle. Repeat if essential and shampoo the carpet to get rid of the shaving cream. Ensure that the carpet cleansing company has insurance coverage. You don’t want to permit anyone into your house to do a job and they don’t seem to be properly insured. You must guantee that they have a approach to replace anything that they damage while they’re doing work in your home.
Find out who might be cleansing your carpet. Some companies have several staff that they send out to the job and generally a company will use the individual that you initially talked to. To keep away from any surprises, ask who will probably be performing the carpet cleansing service at your own home. When on the lookout for a professional carpet cleaning firm, always consider the cleansing course of. There are alternative ways professionals use to wash carpets. Dry treatments, moist treatments, steam cleaning and a variety of others can be found. Some require vital drying time or might require that you simply go away the house. Choose the one which works best for you.
You can look online to find out how effectively an organization ranks with the BBB before contracting them to do any be just right for you. Find out who can be cleansing your carpet. |
Concrete Swimming Pool Repair
As your gunite or concrete pool begins to age, the plaster will require the occasional repair. Cracking, hollow spots, sometimes called “pop-ups”, and chipping are not uncommon. As are wear spots in your pool plaster, when the plaster is worn away, and the gunite below the plaster is showing. Most of these pool plaster repairs can be done by you. With the right tools, the right materials, and a little know how, you can repair most small cracks and chips without too much effort. The following is a step by step guide to making typical pool plaster repairs.
Swimming Pool Crack Repair
Cut the crack out 1/2” deep and extend the length of the crack one inch on both ends. You will need a grinder or saw with a diamond blade. You can rent a 4” grinder, or buy one for about $50.00. Be sure to use all of the proper safety equipment and safe operating procedures.
Allow the crack to dry and wipe away all dust and debris.
Apply a bead of caulk along the length of the crack leaving 1/4” space to allow for plaster to cover the caulk.
Allow the caulk to dry.
Mix some pool patch or white Portland cement and white sand with water and an acrylic cement bonding agent (available at most home improvement super centers). The mix should be the consistency of loose peanut butter.
Lightly moisten the surface. With a flat trowel or putty knife, apply your pool patching mixture to the crack. Gently push the mix into the crack to make sure there is no air left in the gap.
Smooth and even out the patch area with your trowel, and sponge the new patch to match the consistency of the existing surface. If the pool plaster repair won’t be under water for more than a few hours, cover it with a wet towel to keep it moist until the pool repair is covered with water to prevent the job from cracking.
Fill the pool as soon as possible and go swimming!
Swimming Pool Plaster Repair
Get your hammer and chisel and remove any loose plaster that is not bonded to the pool surface. Drag the floor of the pool with a heavy chain and listen for hollow spots, or tap the pool floor with a hammer. You will be able to hear the hollow pool plaster. Chip them up. Be sure to use eye protection, gloves and all of the proper safety equipment.
Chisel some divots and pock marks into the surface that will be patched to help your new plaster patch bond to the existing surface. Acid rinse the surface to be repaired.
Figure out the surface area to be patched. Mix your pool patch or a mixture of 1/3 white Portland cement and 2/3 white sand. If the plaster is a custom color (grey, black) you will need to add cement dye.
Mix the plaster mix and some acrylic bonding agent together with water. Mix to the consistency of peanut butter.
The best way to apply the mix is with a “pool trowel”. Wet the surface with your sponge or a fine mist.
Apply the plaster mix with your trowel. Push the mixture into the corners and divots. Make sure you trowel it enough to there are no air bubbles left in the mixture. Trowel patch smooth. Wait 15 minutes and trowel the patch smooth again, you may need to sprinkle a little water around the edges to smooth it in with the existing plaster. Be sure to keep the pool repair moist until it is under water.
Fill your newly patched swimming pool immediately.
Fiberglass Pool Repairs
You can repair small cracks in your fiberglass pool without too much trouble. Follow the step by step guide below for simple crack repair. You will need a fiberglass repair kit from your local paint supply, or marine supply store. Blisters and bubbles can be repaired the same way. Please remember, you will never get a perfect color and you will always see the repair. The only way to avoid this would be to resurface the entire swimming pool.
Disk sand the entire area around the crack to remove loose dirt and debris.
Cut the crack with the diamond blade, extending the cut beyond the original crack.
Apply the bond coat to the crack area. Let this set and dry until it becomes tacky. If the crack is leaking water, we suggest using hydraulic cement, then applying the bond coat after the crack is filled.
Catalyze the polyester putty, and apply it to the crack using a putty knife. Allow the putty to dry, and then sand the area smooth.
Apply 2-inch masking tape around the perimeter of your repair. Apply a gel coat with the paint roller.
Lay down your fiberglass cloth, using enough to overlap at least two inches on each side of the repair area. Then saturate the fiberglass cloth with another layer of gel. Roll the area using the rib roller, being careful to eliminate air pockets from under the fiberglass.
Allow the repair to dry. (This may take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on temperature and weather conditions).
After the surface has cured to the touch, sand the surface, apply the finish coat.
Make sure the surface is completely dry before you proceed from one step to the next.
Vinyl Liner Pool Repair and Patching
Example of a Vinyl Liner Patch KitMost rips and tears in vinyl lined pools can be patched with a simple vinyl patch kit. Today, most pool vinyl patch kits can be used underwater or above the water level. If you can drain the pool down to patch the leak, it will be easier to make the patch. The following is a step by step guide to patching your vinyl pool liner.
Clean the area to be patched.
Cut your vinyl patch material about 1/2” larger than the hole. Be sure to cut the vinyl patch material in a circle or oval so there are no corners on the patch. Corners will peel off and the patch WILL come off.
Clean the area around the hole to be patched. If the pool patch is a dry pool patch, use a little acetone (ex. nail polish remover) or a good vinyl cleaner.
Apply the vinyl glue to the area around the hole, and the patch itself. If you are doing an underwater patch, apply the vinyl liner glue to the patch only, and fold it over on top of itself.
Wait 3 minutes and press the patch onto the area being patched. Rub all of the air from under the patch, and take extra time to rub the edges all of the way around the patch.
Wait 10 minutes, and rub the patch and edges again. |
Led by Steven Sherwood (CCRC, Australia) & Mark Webb (MetOffice, UK)
Aim: Design critical tests for climate models, whose application will help assess the most likely estimates of climate and hydrological sensitivity.
Focus: Intensify efforts to identify causes of inter-model differences in sensitivity; Interpret robust features; Explain extreme behaviours; Unravel uncertainties and propose strategies to tackle them.
Led by Pier Siebesma (KNMI, Netherlands) & Dargan Frierson (Washington Univ., USA)
Aim: Tackle the parameterization problem through a better understanding the interaction between cloud / convective processes and circulation systems.
Focus: Lessons from observations and cloud-resolving modelling over large domains; Interaction between diabatic heating and large-scale dynamics.
Led by Ted Shepherd (Univ. Reading, UK) & Adam Sobel (Columbia Univ., USA)
Aim: Better anticipate how large-scale atmospheric circulation will respond to anthropogenic forcings (GHG, aerosols, ozone).
Focus: Role of local vs large-scale or remotely forced changes in driving regional changes; Identify robust responses; Interpret uncertain components; Assess the impact of model biases or shortcomings on regional responses
Led by Masa Kageyama (IPSL, France) & Robert Pincus (CIRES, USA)
Aim: Exploitation of observations of the recent past, or proxies for longer-term changes, to better constrain cloud processes and feedbacks.
Focus: Analysis of decadal/multi-decadal records from satellite and in-situ observations; Improvement of paleo-climates reconstructions and syntheses; Comparisons of past vs future changes.
Led by Christian Jakob (Monash Univ., Australia) & Masahiro Watanabe (Tokyo Univ., Japan)
Aim: Interpret and reduce model errors to gain confidence in projections and predictions.
Focus: Long-standing model biases (at least a few of them); Understand how model errors or shortcomings impact projections and predictions; Gain physical understanding of the climate system through model development.
The easy aerosol model-intercomparison project is an activity of the initiative on changing patterns
Recent climate modelling studies illustrate the potential of aerosols to change large-scale atmospheric circulation, and with this the global patterns of precipitation. However, it remains unclear to what extent the proposed aerosol-induced changes reflect robust model behavior or are affected by uncertainties in the models of physical processes, most notably those related to moist phenomena. Easy Aerosol addresses these questions by subjecting comprehensive atmosphere general circulation models to the same set of idealized easy aerosol perturbations that are designed based on a global aerosol climatology and mimic the gravest mode of the anthropogenic aerosol.
Easy Aerosol is part of the WCRP Grand Challenge on "Clouds, circulation, and climate sensitivity" and the COOKIES&CREAM project of EUCLIPSE. The document below discusses the motivation of Easy Aerosol, describes the aerosol perturbations, and defines the experimental protocol. The input files required to run the simulations are provided below:
- The monthly climatologies of the Delta SST patterns required for the Easy Aerosol simulations
- dsst_3plumesaerosol.nc (868k - 2 Jan. 2014, v.7)
- dsst_zonalaerosol.nc (868K - 2 Jan. 2014, v.7)
- The land-sea mask of ECHAM6 on T63 grid
- echam6_slm_t63.nc (75k - 2 Jan. 2014, v.7)
- For reference the following Fortran90 module contains the implementation of the aerosol perturbations in ECHAM6
- mo_aero_easyaerosols.f90 (19.5 KB - Jan. 2014)
- A. Voigt, B. Stevens, S. Bony, O. Boucher : Easy Aerosol - a modeling framework to study robustness and sources of uncertainties in aerosol-induced changes of the large-scale atmospheric circulation (November 2013) |
Predictions were made during the 1960s that world demand for protein would soon exceed supply from conventional sources. At the same time, intensive animal production systems were generating waste excreta in localized polluting concentrations. These highly nitrogenous wastes represented a potential source of crude protein for ruminant animals. If a nutritionally safe way could be developed to recycle these waste nutrients back into animal feeds, the double purpose of conserving protein and alleviating pollution would be served.
Recent reports have reviewed the nutritive value of recycled animal excreta in animal production systems (Smith, 1973). The use of caged laying hen excreta (manure free of litter) as a crude protein source for ruminants was selected for discussion in this article because this system produces the most efficiently used excreta nutrients, offers the greatest pollution reduction potential through ruminant use, is nearest to commercial implementation and is safest from health hazards.
L.W. Smith is Research Animal Scientist, Biological Waste Management Laboratory, Agricultural Environmental Quality Institute, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland 20705.
There were about 329 million chickens of egg-laying age in the United States in 1971. Because chickens excrete an average of 28 g of dry excreta per day, the United States produces about 3.7 million dry tons of this waste each year. With several assumptions, it can be shown that excreta from 18 hens could provide sufficient supplemental crude protein to grow and finish one beef animal. The assumptions are:
With these assumptions, it can be calculated that the caged layer excreta produced in the United States in 1971 could have provided the crude protein to grow and finish about half the cattle slaughtered in the country that year.
Table 1. Composition of dehydrated caged layer excreta
|Source||Organic matter||Cell walls||Crude fibre||Nitrogen-free extract||Lignin||Ether extract||Crude protein1||Calcium||Phosphorus|
|Percentage of dry matter|
Coefficient of variation (%)
Source: Analytical results obtained from literature, private laboratories, and Biological Waste Management Laboratory, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland.
1 Nitrogen × 6.25.
1. Open-sided structure for housing caged layers in mild to warm climates. Moisture loss from the excreta is a result of natural environment.
Several methods exist that would be suitable for processing poultry excreta for recycling as ruminant feed supplements. These include dehydration, pelleting, dry-heat treatment, aerobic fermentation, anaerobic fermentation, or combinations of these processes. Dehydration appears to be the most practical of these, and provides a product which permits greater flexibility in use.
The variability in composition of poultry excreta (Table 1) is the result of several factors that include dietary and physiological status, age of the excreta before stabilization and the temperature of drying. It has been observed that hens fed diets with 18 percent crude protein produced excreta containing 38 to 46 percent crude protein, whereas hens fed diets with 16 percent crude protein produced excreta containing 28 to 36 percent crude protein.
Increased storage time and drying temperature reduce the nitrogen retained in dehydrated excreta. The author has observed up to 30 percent nitrogen loss during dehydration; this loss can be attributed to original moisture content and age of the excreta before dehydration. Nitrogen is probably lost as ammonianitrogen and as the result of bacterial degradation of protein and uric acid. However, data are not available for a full evaluation of the relative significance of factors affecting nitrogen losses from dehydration.
The moisture content of hen excreta varies in relation to the physiological status of the hen and environmental conditions. The house shown in Figure 1 is located in the southern United States where moisture loss is a result of natural environment. Dry-matter content of excreta from such a house can be as high as 80 percent. The excreta handling system shown in Figure 2 is similar to one developed by Bressler and Bergman (1971) for use in caged layer houses in cooler climates. Moisture is reduced by mechanical stirring and constant air movement provided by fans. The resulting dry-matter content of excreta is generally higher than 40 percent, and varies with relative humidity, temperature, stirring frequency and air velocity.
Data in Table 2 show the costs (February 1974 prices) of dehydrating caged layer excreta of two moisture contents. These data were collected during the operation of a rotary-drum dehydrator (Figures 3 and 4) rated by the manufacturer to remove 1 000 pounds of moisture per hour. Costs for transportation, other necessary equipment and raw material fluctuate widely, and were not included in this evaluation. Excreta contains about 25 percent dry matter when dropped by the hen, and it would not normally be below this figure unless water were added to flush the gutters.
Digestibility of dehydrated poultry excreta
In vivo digestibilities of dry matter, organic matter and nitrogen of dehydrated poultry excreta fed to sheep are presented in Table 3. These digestibilities determined with sheep should be generally applicable to other ruminants; however, the known ovine versus bovine difference documented for conventional feedstuffs must be recognized. Two methods were used by the different researchers to derive these digestibility measurements: (1) feeding only processed excreta; (2) feeding excreta in combination with feeds of known digestibilities and calculation of coefficients by difference. Fair agreement of coefficients is shown, considering the limited number of determinations and possible range in composition of the excreta fed.
2. System of automatically timed scrapers for stirring and cleaning manure pits under caged layers. Intermittent mechanical stirring and constant air movement provided by fans aid moisture loss and odour control.
3. The dehydrator used to process poultry excreta at the Biological Waste Management Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
4. Diagram of the dehydrator pictured above. Dry material is recycled and blended with wet material to obtain a mixture with crumbly physical properties for efficient dehydration.
5. Relationship between the crude and digestible protein concentrations of rations containing 19 to 100 percent dehydrated broiler excreta compared with fresh forage.
The apparent digestibility of crude protein by ruminants increases with crude protein content in concentrates, forage, or mixed rations (Blaxter and Mitchell, 1948; Dijkstra, 1966). This high correlation (r = 0.96 to 0.99) has been used to predict digestible protein from crude protein content. “True” digestibility of crude protein is estimated by the slope of the regression of digestible crude protein (Y) on crude protein content (X) in dry matter. Figure 5 shows the results of feeding rations containing 19 to 100 percent dehydrated broiler excreta to sheep. Other low-nitrogen ingredients in the rations were molasses, solka floc (cellulose) and maize starch. “True” digestibility of crude protein in dehydrated broiler excreta was estimated to be 81 percent, compared with 96 percent for fresh forages. However, estimates from other data in the literature were similar to those estimated for conventional feeds (Smith, 1973). The relatively high “true” digestibility estimates for crude protein in dehydrated poultry excreta could result in misinterpretation of its use as a nitrogen source for ruminants, due to its high nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) content. Most of this NPN is uric acid nitrogen, which could have a theoretical or “true” digestibility of 100 percent, similar to urea nitrogen in this system. Because the “true” digestibility of nitrogen from poultry excreta implies nothing of its efficiency of use for productive funcitons, supporting nitrogen utilization data are necessary for a more critical evaluation of this product. Uric acid was evaluated as a source of dietary nitrogen in purified diets of steers and found to compare favourably with other NPN sources (Oltjen et al., 1968). Nitrogen from poultry excreta was retained and used for growth (El Sabban et al., 1970; Tinnimit et al., 1972; Smith et al., 1973).
Table 2. Cost per ton 1 of drying hen manure in rotary drum with afterburner
|Input dry matter|
|Fuel:||29.5 gal/hour, $0.38/gal||23.10||58.00|
|Electricity:||21 kW. $0.02/kWh||0.28||0.73|
|Operating cost per ton||32.09||80.76|
1 90 percent dry matter.
2 Straight-line depreciation based on operation 16 hours/day, 6 days/week.
The digestibility of plant cell walls in dehydrated poultry excreta as determined by an in vitro method was found to be 60–76 percent.
Animal performance, whether in terms of growth, fattening, lactation or reproduction, is the result of nutrient intake, digestion, absorption and use.
Table 3. In vivo digestibilities of dehydrated poultry excreta fed to sheep
|Dry matter||Organic matter||Nitrogen|
Sources: Smith and Calvert, 1972: Lowman and Knight, 1970; Thomas et al., 1970.
Some aspects of digestibility, absorption and use have already been discussed. High-level voluntary intake is of equal importance to other factors in achieving satisfactory animal performance. Difficulties have sometimes been reported in achieving adequate levels of consumption with rations containing dehydrated poultry excreta (Bucholtz et al., 1971; Bull and Reid, 1971; Tinnimit et al., 1972; Thomas et al., 1972). Adaptation periods of 7 to 21 days were necessary before maximal levels of intake were achieved. Bucholtz et al. (1971) observed that steers discriminated against dehydrated poultry excreta and sorted out shelled maize and maize silage.
Sorting and adaptation difficulties were virtually eliminated at the Beltsville laboratory by pelleting complete rations (Figure 6). However, a problem remained when pelleted concentrate containing dehydrated poultry excreta was fed with maize silage: lower consumption by lactating cows of both the concentrate and the maize silage was observed. Possibly the moist silage permitted ammonia release from the pellets and this affected consumption.
Dehydrated poultry excreta has been fed as a crude protein supplement to beef cattle, sheep, and lactating dairy cattle. El Sabban et al. (1970) compared the value of soybean meal, autoclaved poultry waste, dehydrated poultry waste and urea in ground shelled maize and timothy hay rations for fattening steers. Steers fed the ration containing urea gained faster (1.43 kg/day) than steers fed the ration containing dehydrated poultry waste (1.15 kg/day). Differences in gain among the steers fed soybean meal, autoclaved poultry waste and dehydrated poultry waste were not significant. Feed to gain ratios were lowest (8.2) for steers fed the urea ration. Smaller differences in this ratio (10.0-10.8) were observed among the other three rations.
6. Dehydrated poultry excreta, control ration (86.2 percent maize meal, 12.8 percent cottonseed meal and 1.0 percent dicalcium phosphate), and experimental ration (79.5 percent maize meal, 20.5 percent dehydrated poultry excreta).
|DRIED POULTRY EXCRETA||CONTROL RATION||EXPERIMENTAL RATION|
Dehydrated poultry waste. soybean meal, urea, and 1:1 combinations of dehydrated poultry waste to soybean meal or urea based on nitrogen content were added to maize silage and rolled shelled maize rations in tests for fattening steers (Bucholtz et al., 1971). All rations were formulated to contain 12 percent crude protein. The group fed the soybean meal supplement gained 1.52 kg/day, whereas the urea group gained 1.41 kg day: both gains were greater (P 0.05) than those of the groups fed other supplements. which gained from 1.25 to 1.38 kg/day. Feed to gain ratio was the lowest (6.96) on the soybean meal ration and highest (10.43) on the dehydrated poultry excreta ration.
Dehydrated poultry excreta was fed as a protein supplement to growing sheep (Thomas et al., 1972; Smith et al., 1973). Thomas et al., observed that sheep fed 19 percent crude protein rations containing 61 or 90 percent total protein from dehydrated excreta gained significantly less (0.16 kg/day) than sheep fed a control soybean meal ration (0.21 kg/ day). However, Smith et al. reported that gains (0.18-0.19 kg/day) were not significantly different for sheep fed complete pelleted rations where 0 to 40 percent of the crude protein was provided with dehydrated poultry excreta. The primary difference between these two experiments was in the crude protein level fed, and therefore in the supplemental dehydrated excreta necessary to obtain that level. The high supplemental levels of excreta needed to obtain 19 percent crude protein rations could account for the lower gain. In addition to supplying crude protein, mainly in the form of nonprotein nitrogen, excreta contains a relatively large amount of ash which has the effect of lowering organic matter content in the total ration.
Dehydrated poultry excreta has been utilized to supplement rations for lactating cows (Bull and Reid, 1971; Thomas et al., 1972; Smith and Fries, 1973). Bull and Reid concluded that poultry excreta can serve as the sole source of supplemental nitrogen for cows producing at least 28 kg milk per day. In a more extensive trial, Thomas et al., found that milk from cows fed poultry excreta was indistinguishable from that from cows fed crude protein from conventional sources. In a 90-day trial, Smith and Fries found that cows fed a poultry excreta concentrate consumed less maize silage and concentrate dry matter, gained less weight and produced less milk than cows fed a control concentrate.
However, the ratios of feed dry-matter intake to fluid milk production were the same, suggesting a nearly equal use of nutrients.
Meat and milk from animals fed rations containing excreta have been evaluated by taste panels, and found indistinguishable from control products (El Sabban et al., 1970; Bull and Reid, 1971; Thomas et al., 1972). Carcass evaluations conducted on excreta-fed animals were similar to those on control-fed animals (El Sabban et al., 1970; Bucholtz et al., 1971; Thomas et al., 1972).
Effect on animal health and food safety
The feeding of animal excreta products is not sanctined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at the time of writing because of potential hazards from disease organisms and drug residues (Taylor, 1972).
Problems of disease have not been associated with feeding dehydrated poultry excreta, as evidenced by the fact that no such cases are documented in scientific literature to date. Figures 7 and 8 show examples of animals fed excreta-supplemented rations for up to 184 days without apparent ill effects. The steer in Figure 8 was seven and a half months old at the start of the trial, weighed 235 kg, and gained 0.91 kg per day during the period.
No toxicological problems have been reported for animals on rations containing dehydrated poultry excreta. Excreta from caged layers would not normally contain residues of medicants because these are not included in routine layer diets. When medicated rations are fed to poultry to control health problems, their excreta should not be used for refeeding unless information establishing its safety is available.
Potential disease transmission from poultry to cattle does exist but is not a likely hazard. Cattle fed rations containing dehydrated poultry excreta at Beltsville were intra-dermaltuberculosis tested by the caudal method after 241 days on this feed. All cattle were negative to this test. Bacteria such as Salmonella or fecal coliforms can be eliminated from excreta by several feasible methods which include dehydration, ensiling or fermentaion. The heating associated with dehydration and pelleting has been sufficient to eliminate these bacteria in trials in the laboratory. Exhaust temperature of the dehydrator is maintained at 80°C, and the excreta is kept in the drum about 15 minutes. These conditions are more severe than those for the “high-temperature (71°C) shorttime (15 seconds) method” of pasteurization. However, it should be pointed out that the dehydrated product is not sterilized.
Dehydrated excreta from caged layers has substantial nutritional value for ruminants. Properly dehydrated poultry excreta is especially high in crude protein (30 to 45 percent) and is a source of energy; both appear to be efficiently used by the ruminant. Although intake is not usually a problem, more ingenious processing and formulative advances are necessary in order to achieve more general use.
7 and 8. Animals fed the experimental ration in Figure 6 without apparent ill effects. The wether was fed the ration for 160 days, and the steer for 184 days.
No deleterious effects on ruminant health from feeding processed poultry excreta have been reported in the literature. Excreta free of feed additive residues is available for processing as ruminant feed because neither routine nor extensive medication of layer diets is practised.
Poultry excreta is an economical protein supplement for ruminants because the cost of the dehydration process (the major item of expense) is relatively low compared with current costs of conventional feeds. However, poultry excreta should not be fed to ruminants until cleared by the appropriate agencies for such use.
Blaxter, K.L. & Mitchell, H.H. 1948. The factorization of the protein requirements of ruminants and of the protein values of feeds, with particular reference to significance of the metabolic fecal nitrogen. J. Anim. Sci., 7: 351–372.
Bressler, G.O. & Bergman, E.L., 1971. Solving the poultry manure problem economically through dehydration. Livestock waste management and pollution abatement. Proc. Intern. Symp. on Livestock Wastes, Columbus, Ohio, p. 81–84. St. Joseph, Mich., 49085, asaf.
Bucholtz, H.F., Henderson, H.E., Flegal, C.J. & Zindel, H.C., 1971. Dried poultry waste as a protein source for feedlot cattle. In Poultry pollution: research results. C.C. Sheppard, editor. Michigan State, University Research Report 152, p. 28–31.
BULL, L.S. & Reid, J.T. 1971. Nutritive value of chicken manure for cattle. Proc. Intern, Symp. On Livestock Wastes, Columbus, Ohio, p. 297-300. St. Joseph, Mich. 49085, asae.
Dijkstra, N.D. 1966. Estimation of the nutritive value of fresh roughage. Proc. Tenth Intern. Grassland Cong., Univ. Helsinki, Finland, p. 393–397.
El Sabban, F.F., Bratzler, J.W., Long, T.A., FREAR, D.E.H. & Gentry, R.F. 1970. Value of processed poultry waste as a feed for ruminants. J. Anim. Sci., 31: 107-111.
Lowman, B.G. & Knight, D.W. 1970. A note on the apparent digestibility of energy and protein in dried poultry excreta. Anim. Prod., 12: 525–528.
Oltjen, R.R., Slyter, L.L., Kozak, A.S. & Williams JR., E.E. 1968. Evaluation of urea, biuret, urea phosphate and uric acid as NPN sources for cattle. J. Nutrition, 94: 193–202.
Smith L.W. 1973. Recycling animal wastes as protein sources. In Alternative sources of protein for animal production, Proc. of a symposium, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, D.C., p. 146–173. Isbn 0-309-02114-6.
Smith, L.W. & Calvert, C.C. 1972. Unpublished data.
Smith, L.W., Calvert, C.C. & Menear, J.R. 1973. Dehydrated poultry manure as a crude protein supplement for sheep. Proc. Maryland Nutrition Conference for Feed Manufacturers, University of Maryland, Dept. of Anim. Sci., p. 35–44.
Smith, L.W. & Fries, G.F. 1973. Dehydrated poultry manure as a crude protein supplement for lactating cows. J. Dairy Sci., 56: 668.
Taylor, J.C. 1972. Residues and heavy metal contamination problems caused by refeeding animal wastes. Proc. Maryland Nutrition Conference for Feed Manufacturers, University of Maryland, Dept. of Anim. Sci., p. 32–37.
Tinnimit, P., Yu Yu, McGuffey, K. & Thomas, J.W. 1972. Dried animal waste as a protein supplement for sheep. J. Anim. Sci., 35: 431–435.
Thomas, J.W. Yu Yu, & Hoefer, J.A. 1970. Digestibility of paper and dehydrated feces. J. Anim. Sci., 31: 255.
Thomas, J.W., Yu Yu, Tinnimit, P. & Zindel, H.C. 1972. Dehydrated poultry waste as a feed for milking cows and growing sheep. J. Dairy Sci., 55: 1261– 1265. |
Toenail fungus, also identified by the term onychomycosis, is an ordinary condition that disfigures and even demolishes the toenail. The significant toe and the small toe are the nails that are most most likely to be impacted by toenail fungus. This situation is caused by any one particular of the numerous types of fungi that create in moist and warm surroundings, particularly in the shoes. As they rise, they invade and feed on the protein that creates really hard surface of the toenail.
The nail can be filed down and trimmed cautiously, either at house or by a podiatrist. If the infection is gentle and a great deal localized then to treat toenail fungus a doctor may well advocate a medicated nail polish containing either Loceryl or Loprox. If the infection persists or carry on spreading then a medical doctor may prescribe an oral, systemic anti-fungal medication such as Sporanox or Lamisil. The treatment could requires about 12 weeks. Both of these drugs have some pretty harmful effects that may well not be appropriate for some men and women.
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Toenail fungus turns to be a chronic situation, and if it is not aching, numerous people do not get therapy. Nevertheless, to treat toenail fungus, folks with unrelieved illness like diabetes need to see a physician if they turn out to be conscious of modifications in their nails as it may possibly be an indication of much more significant complications. If the nail turn out to be really thick and it is difficult to wear footwear and one particular really feel discomfort although walking then 1 need to visit a doctor.
If your youngster has been diagnosed with respiratory allergies, there are rather a handful of items you can do in your household to assist decrease the symptoms. Eliminating as substantially dust and pollen from inside the property can make a huge distinction in the severity of allergy attacks. It’s not just the dust you see in the air or on desktops that causes problems. There is also dust hiding in carpets, furniture and bedding.
Hay fever allergies, also recognized as respiratory allergies surprising impacts of the kids in America. To ones surprise, hay fever allergies are seldom associated to hay or trigger a fever, nor does a virus induce hay fever allergies. With the staggering percentage of kids getting affected by allergies, medical understanding of how to treat hay fever and respiratory allergies remains limited.
Toenail fungus is uncommon in children, however, the chances becomes more as one’s age increases. Around 48% of individuals in the United States have at least one toe affected by the time they are 70 years of age The uncomfortable tight fitting footwear and layers of nail polish enhances the threat of rising toenail fungus. It can also spread person-to-person in public regions, such as locker rooms and showers. Having a chronic situation that have an effect on a circulation, such as diabetes or HIV also enhances your danger. The affected nail will turn into stained and will turn very thick and overgrown. A single may possibly notice stinking debris below the nail. The nail may perhaps disintegrate and eventually fall off totally, or it might develop into so thick that it is quite painful to put on footwear.
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Each time these antibodies recognize the same invading allergens histamine is released into the bloodstream causing irritating hay fever, respiratory allergies symptoms. There are two key kinds of allergies: seasonal allergies (spring via fall) and perennial allergies (all-year long). If a fungal infection turns into scratchy, it is enough to appear for health-related therapy so that a doctor will examine the toenail and may well take smaller samples. The nail can be scrutinized for fungi or some other infection below a microscope in the lab.
Toenail fungus, also identified by the term onychomycosis, is an ordinary situation that disfigures and even demolishes the toenail. The huge toe and the small toe are the nails that are most most likely to be affected by toenail fungus. This situation is caused by any a single of the quite a few sorts of fungi that create in moist and warm surroundings, specifically in the footwear. As they rise, they invade and feed on the protein that creates tough surface of the toenail.
Latest Breakthroughs In Type 1 Diabetes – If your youngster has been diagnosed with respiratory allergies, there are fairly a handful of issues you can do in your household to help reduce the symptoms. |
James Syhabout’s irresistible mash-up of Caesar salad and popcorn is just one of the addictive snacks he serves at his Oakland restaurant, The Dock.
2. Michael Tusk’s English Pea Risotto
To make this super springy risotto, Michael Tusk of Quince and Cotogna uses every part of the pea — the pods go into a light pea stalk, the blanched peas become a brilliant green puree, and the flowers and shoots become a lovely garnish.
3. Easy 5-Ingredient Vinaigrette
Take your salad to the next level with this simple but delicious vinaigrette technique from award winning Chef, Craig Stoll.
4. Delfina's Spaghetti Pomodoro
Sixteen years after opening Delfina, the restaurant’s signature spaghetti remains on the menu, a simple dish with a cult following.
5. Tyler Florence's Fried Chicken
After exhaustive experimentation, Tyler Florence created a home cook-friendly recipe for the irresistible fried chicken he serves at Wayfare Tavern.
6. Korean Soft Tacos
These delicious Korean tacos are packed full of delicious tender beef, and are served with a coleslaw that is packed full of flavor, making this a perfect easydinner.
7. Sweet Potato Chili
Amp up the flavor with whatever spice you have in this easy, healthy, and incredibly satisfying take on chili.
8. Chicken Noodle Soup
Flavorful stock, fresh-cooked chicken, seasonal vegetables, and spaghetti noodles give new life to this classic.
9. Slow Cooking 101: Asian-Inspired Chicken
Made with just 5 simple ingredients this moist and savory rotisserie chicken will be a hit with the entire family.
10. Lentil and Kale Superfood Stew
Ribbons of Kale combined with fire roasted chiles and tomatoes add bright notes to this hearty vegetarian lentil stew. |
Typically I discover it arduous to consider that I’ve been an web consumer for twenty years now. That’s older than a few of my co-workers. It’s over half my life. And nonetheless the web looks like “the brand new factor.” I used to take it as a right, like all of us do. However at the least I keep in mind what it was like when it wasn’t there. If you needed to leaf by means of an encyclopedia set to seek out a solution. When you possibly can solely discover Gillian Anderson’s image in magazines. Or later, when songs took 30 minutes to obtain and full-length films have been virtually unimaginable to seek out, as a result of no-one’s exhausting drive might maintain them.
First getting on-line was tremendous thrilling. I imply, the primary time I did it with out supervision. As a result of I knew I had something at my fingertips. I might sort it into good ol’ Lycos, certainly one of many pre-Google serps, and there it might be. I used to be serious about bare celebrities and the paranormal again then. I used to be solely 13, give me a break. I used to be so within the paranormal, I constructed a Fortunecity free homepage all concerning the occult and The X-Information. I linked it to the DarkNet webring, the place all the perfect “darkish” web sites and homepages got here collectively. Pages on spell books, goth babes, the occult, darkish artwork, and a gross-out web page or two. It was via the webring that I met Angelica.
Angelica hosted a Wiccan geocities or tripod homepage that I discovered notably alluring. No wait, it was Angelfire. She simply made the perfect of some cool animated gifs, midis, and frames—superb stuff on the time. Identical to her, the web page was artistic and engaging, but in addition easy. The rationale I deliver all this up is she abruptly contacted me just some weeks in the past by e-mail asking, “What’s been occurring?” A catch-up query. We had virtually 20 years of catching as much as do. And that is pure Angelica: She signed the e-mail together with her ICQ contact #. I loved the quaint contact. It’d be like somebody within the ‘90s sending a letter with a wax seal, proper?
I replied again with a abstract of how my life had gone over the previous 18 years or so since I’d final communicated together with her. 18 years—makes you assume. She shot again a response virtually instantly asking for particulars. We exchanged a number of emails this manner. I used to be fairly excited to return house from work and write to her, truly. Nothing romantic. It was simply—it was reconnecting with my previous. It’s a wierd however addictive feeling.
Quickly I began to note one thing just a bit off. She by no means actually answered something about herself. She ignored my options that we textual content or speak on the telephone. All she needed was to know extra about me. It obtained me questioning. Like perhaps she’s dying and simply doesn’t need to say. So I requested her. I requested why she wasn’t sharing and if there was one thing I ought to know.
I begin studying over her earlier messages for clues, and I observed one thing that didn’t happen to me in any respect till then. Her e-mail handle was at globetrotter.internet. That will not imply something to you. Nevertheless it struck me as unusual. You see, Globetrotter was a Canadian ISP method again within the mid-90s. I didn’t even understand they nonetheless hosted. I do know lots of people nonetheless have their previous e-mail addresses for sentimental worth and all. Nevertheless it’s like she was purposely making an attempt to be old fashioned. One thing about it creeped me out. Like she was making an attempt too arduous to make me really feel nostalgic or one thing.
Once more, I didn’t have to attend lengthy for her reply. Oh, she didn’t reply my questions. She requested me, “Hey, do you keep in mind The Gap?” I didn’t know why then, however the second I learn that sentence, I felt uneasy. Like I used to be being watched. I had a hazy sense that I’d dreamed about one thing referred to as ‘The Gap’ as soon as. No matter it was, I used to be instinctively repulsed by it. I couldn’t keep in mind something strong, although. In my head I went over IRC rooms, web sites, newsgroups, webrings—all of the previous web stuff—and got here up empty.
She despatched me one other e mail earlier than I might even reply:
“You actually don’t keep in mind? The Gap was our little secret. Not many knew about it. Even fewer find out how to discover it. However we discovered it. It was proper there all alongside. Typically, if you’d load DarkNet in Netscape, there’d be a tiny black dot within the backside, left nook, in all this clean area. You needed to hover over it precisely and click on it. You then’d be there. You’d be in The Gap. You keep in mind it now, don’t you?”
She was proper, I did. I simply didn’t keep in mind ever calling it “The Gap.” What I remembered was that secret little area we discovered. I keep in mind it was just like the browser didn’t see it as an actual web site or one thing. There wasn’t even an tackle to repeat and paste from the bar. It was simply the letter ‘M.’ I attempted all the things to pin it right down to an IP, however ‘M’ was all I might ever discover.
One other factor I keep in mind is that I by no means appreciated that place. By no means. There was nothing there. It was all empty. I keep in mind being excited the primary time we discovered it, as a result of it was one thing hidden. And it felt like someplace we shouldn’t be. Then I hated it. As a result of it was simply empty. And it made me really feel dangerous and empty. Not boredom. Prefer it wasn’t alleged to be there or anyplace, wasn’t a part of something.
I wrote Angelica again telling her I wasn’t enthusiastic about speaking about that. I didn’t hear again from her that night time. That was uncommon. She usually replied immediately. Eerily quick, I noticed whereas mulling it over. It was like she already had her reply typed out and it didn’t matter what I truly stated to her. Now that I used to be ready for a response, as a result of this entire factor had me inexplicably shaken up, in fact she didn’t reply.
The subsequent day, once I acquired house from work, an e-mail was ready. She stated, “We have been lacking a lot. The Gap has a lot for us to find, so many secrets and techniques, you might simply maintain going and going. It’s like an infinite puzzle. Everybody else stopped on the first layer. You keep in mind that, proper? I simply knew there needed to be one thing else in it. I knew no-one would create and conceal it for no cause. I stored going again to it, wanting intently till I found easy methods to go deeper. And I stored going. It’s nonetheless there, you understand. It’s not too late. The webring is gone, Netscape is gone, however The Gap continues to be there for you.”
I felt a wierd chill down my backbone that I disregarded as nerves. I used to be up for a promotion and a bit of harassed, in any case. Then I began to marvel if she was pranking me. Angelica wasn’t actually a humorous woman. She’d giggle at your jokes. However she didn’t actually make her personal. The truth is, one thing about her earnestness was actually disturbing.
I didn’t reply to her proper then. I made a decision to run some checks on her, as a result of issues simply weren’t including up. I began together with her e mail handle, to see if she’d been posting anyplace. I used to be looking for some time earlier than I hit one thing. I didn’t discover any discussion board posts or web sites or something like that. What I discovered was that her e-mail host, globetrotter, had stopped internet hosting. Eleven years in the past! The e-mail tackle she was writing from was unimaginable. Now I knew one thing was fallacious together with her. If it was even actually Angelica.
I imply, why would she undergo a lot hassle to create a pretend e mail tackle that mirrored no matter e-mail handle she would’ve been utilizing within the ‘90s? That wasn’t simply quaint anymore. Additionally, we hadn’t talked in 18 years. Why did she out of the blue need to attain out to me? And why simply to speak about some long-forgotten web site? As a result of I felt like that’s what she was constructing as much as all alongside. The extra I considered it, the extra bizarre it appeared.
I ought to’ve simply ignored her and went on with my life, however I needed to know what was happening. I stored digging round. I used her ICQ quantity, her identify, the state I believed she lived in. I might discover no document of her doing something after her Angelfire homepage. No Fb, no Google Plus, not even a MySpace. It’s like her final presence on the web truly was within the ‘90s. Like she disappeared utterly, waited in hiding for nearly twenty years, then reappeared simply to speak to me about an previous web site. The entire thing was so weird, I began having hassle sleeping. I used to be having nightmares about staring right into a monitor, not capable of transfer. There have been computer systems throughout. And I used to be involved concerning the beehive within the nook.
After that, I went every week with out sending her an e-mail or her sending me one. I felt responsible about it. However I had each proper. I simply knew I’d remorse it if I despatched her one other e mail. And it appeared like she took the trace at first. Till a brand new e mail got here in. This one was brief and to the purpose.
It learn: “I feel I’m coming to the middle. You may spend your entire life in right here.”
I keep in mind these phrases precisely. Oh sure. As a result of regardless of the hell they meant, the best way she stated them, so actual and pressing, was actually upsetting.
I didn’t dare reply her. One other week glided by and not using a unusual e mail. This one was a special type of e mail. This one didn’t even have an e-mail tackle. That was spooky sufficient in itself. It will get worse. The textual content learn, “Don’t belief emails, not from good place, delete and overlook.” It wasn’t signed. I figured it needed to be Angelica. It simply wasn’t her type.
Not lengthy after, I acquired one other e-mail from Angelica with directions of the place to go in search of The Gap. A spot on archive.org, on their “Wayback Machine,” nonetheless had the dot to click on on. That was the one method in, she stated. It needed to be the dot. I considered going to examine it. I might have. Besides I used to be afraid of it. I couldn’t keep in mind what occurred to me with that website, however I knew there was one thing dangerous about it.
Then one other e mail got here from the clean e-mail tackle. Within the physique, simply the hyperlink to a gopher website. Now, I hadn’t seen a gopher website in a very good 15 years. I needed to obtain an previous browser simply to entry it. In the event you weren’t on the web again then, Gopher websites simply housed a bunch of textual content information in folders, often. You’d go to Gopher colon slash-slash blahblah dot com. They have been often run by universities.
This specific gopher website solely had a couple of information. All audio information. I listened to all of them. That they had totally different filenames, however they have been the identical. The muffled sound of a boy’s voice saying, “Assist me, please” time and again. I used to be shaking. I obtained the police concerned this time. They thought I used to be being pranked. I requested them if they might a minimum of look into Angelica. I informed all of them I knew about her. The one factor I didn’t inform them is who I assumed the voice was. I do know it’s loopy, however, the rationale I didn’t inform them, is that I’m fairly positive it was my voice once I was a boy.
I ended acquired emails from Angelica and the clean tackle after that. I hoped it was over. I feel a month handed earlier than anything occurred. I obtained the promotion. Issues have been feeling regular. I advised myself some secrets and techniques are greatest left secret. Properly, I obtained a big, manila envelope within the mail. No return tackle. I went towards my intestine and opened it. Inside was a printout of all my correspondence with Angelica. All of it. Not simply the brand new stuff. Emails I’d written her again within the ‘90s.
I took this stack of papers to the police. This was proof. They advised me they nonetheless thought it was a sick prank. That struck me as odd. I requested them “However why ‘sick’?” That’s once they advised me they really had heard again from the native PD the place Angelica lived. She’d been a lacking individual since 1999. Her mother and father provided a reward and every part. They by no means discovered her. No clues. One night time she was in her room, listening to music, on the pc. Within the morning, she was gone with no hint.
I used to be so shocked I needed to sit down. Perhaps it was a prank. However then, what if it was her? Wouldn’t her household need to know? Perhaps she’d had a psychotic break or one thing? What’s these things about “The Gap”? And what concerning the clean e-mail handle? I didn’t have a clue.
The police have been no assist with these questions. And I used to be pulled again in. I made a decision to go on the lookout for any contacts I might keep in mind from the time once I was chatting with Angelica. Anybody who would’ve recognized each me and her. We had a number of mutual contacts. Principally individuals from the webring, but in addition individuals we launched to one another. Simply not many I remembered by their actual names. Truly, none.
There was one man. He glided by the deal with Rapskhellion_42. He was an odd man, into hacking and anarchy—the great, clear web taboos we had again then. He’d been on the web endlessly, because the days of bulletin board methods. That man, if he was nonetheless round, he’d in all probability nonetheless be going by the identical username. So, I received to looking. Not solely might I not discover any hint of a Rapskhellion_42, I couldn’t discover any Rapskhellion in any respect. He was everywhere in the net within the day. In order that in itself was bizarre. Like somebody scrubbed any hint of him.
That’s once I acquired the thought to go dig out my previous pc. It was an previous 1997 HP operating Home windows 98. I had it stashed within the basement since I went to school. It might a minimum of have all of my previous contacts saved simply the place I left them. If it will even load. I needed to wait 5 minutes for it in addition up. Then I received the Ethernet cable plugged in. It was prefer it’d simply been in sleep mode for 20 years. And there they have been, my desktop icons for IRC, ICQ, Netscape and even Napster. Napster! I discovered there was extra to music than the radio from Napster. Some good reminiscences.
I truthfully wasn’t positive ICQ would load. I consider ICQ nonetheless exists in some type, however I simply doubted their servers would nonetheless accommodate the previous software program. One of many key options of ICQ that made it so forward of its time was that, apart from being the one prompt messenger, it additionally allowed offline messaging. I point out that as a result of, not solely did ICQ load, however it loaded with a message. That perturbed me slightly, as a result of it’s prefer it was simply ready for me, figuring out I’d boot it up. Apart from one element. The message was dated from November, 1999. It was from Angelica, so it needed to have been despatched proper earlier than she disappeared. It simply stated, “You coming?” It despatched a shiver down my backbone. The place was she going? Might I’ve helped her if I’d seen it in time? Why’d she act like I knew?
Even weirder is that I’m positive I’d been on ICQ after November 1999. I’d say I used it as much as 2001 or so. That’s once I went to school. It’s just like the message received trapped within the server all that point and I used to be solely getting it now.
I closed the message and appeared for Rapskhellion_42. I hoped simply to seek out an e mail handle on his ICQ information. I actually didn’t anticipate to see a inexperienced On-line icon beside his identify, however that’s what I received. That solely added to how unsettled I used to be. I virtually needed to verify to ensure it was actually 2017. Anyway, I fired off a message to Rap saying, “Hey man, very long time no converse.” I didn’t need to simply begin with ‘enterprise’ in any case that point.
I used to be relieved when he replied again with a pleasant hey and requested me how I used to be doing. After exchanging pleasantries, and catching up a bit of, I needed to ask him why he was nonetheless utilizing ICQ in any case this time.
He stated it’s due to Y2K. “Y2K actually occurred,” he stated. It simply didn’t occur the best way everybody anticipated. It was far more insidious. All of us thought computer systems would simply cease working as a result of they couldn’t deal with the millennium change. Nevertheless it wasn’t that they stopped working. One thing occurred contained in the “connection of issues,” one thing dangerous. The previous gear can be nice, so long as it didn’t get ‘patched’. However the whole lot made after December 31st, 1999 can be tainted. That’s why he nonetheless used ICQ and by no means let go of his NetZero dialup connection.
I hadn’t heard a Y2K conspiracy concept in a really very long time. In order that was fascinating. I selected to disregard it and requested him if he knew about Angelica going lacking again in ’99. He stated he didn’t. He figured she simply dropped off the web. However, he stated, it’s no coincidence she went lacking proper at Y2K. “Numerous unusual issues occurred then. The world modified. Just a few individuals even observed.” Rap was all the time just a little on the perimeter, however what he was saying was unusually upsetting. Perhaps it was simply hitting too near house. If that final message actually was despatched November, 1999, then he was proper, she disappeared proper earlier than Y2K.
Given his views, I went forward and informed Rap all the things that had occurred. He believed me. That was a pleasant change, in a means. It additionally made it really feel extra actual. I used to be shaking whereas typing.
He informed me my story reminded him of one thing he’d heard from one other previous pal only recently. There was this man, “R0xT4r” or to his nearer buddies simply “Reggie”, who used to frequent an web discussion board on hacking and phreaking again within the mid-90s. This man had a whole lot of buddies there, was well-spoken and intelligent sufficient to earn actual respect. Over time, as typically occurs, he simply drifted away from the discussion board. His posts turned much less frequent as different points of life preoccupied him, and shortly sufficient he was gone. The discussion board strove for anonymity, for apparent causes. So, no-one stored in touch with him.
The discussion board’s nonetheless there, Rap stated. Nowhere close to what it was, however the regulars like him are devoted. A number of months in the past, after twenty years absence, Reggie instantly confirmed up on the discussion board once more. His posts have been well mannered, conversational, however simply off one way or the other. Like somebody feigning familiarity. He was simply making an attempt so exhausting. It was bizarre, however they have been joyful he was alive and properly, in order that they replied to him and introduced him updated. Then, with out acknowledging something they stated, he began making submit after publish about how his life was revolutionized. He discovered an entire new frontier of hacking. “The hacking begins inside you,” he stated. And he needed to point out it to them.
The discussion board people have been flabbergasted by his odd conduct, in order that they began interrogating him. He went silent for a few week. Then he despatched one final message, saying, “I really like you guys a lot” with a TinyURL hyperlink. Rap’s good friend thought it was all a joke and that Reggie was simply main the entire discussion board as much as an epic rickroll. He didn’t click on it, as a result of he didn’t want to listen to any Astley and he was busy with one thing else.
He got here again to the discussion board later and determined he was going to go forward and click on the hyperlink anyway. It might be one thing legit. On a whim, he refreshed first to see if anybody replied saying what the hyperlink was. He sees a submit in reply from a really trusted and revered member of the discussion board saying, in all caps, “DO NOT CLICK THAT LINK, WHATEVER YOU DO! AND THAT IS NOT REGGIE.”
For an previous professional to make use of all caps? That was critical shit. Even I knew that. In order that was sufficient to dissuade everybody from clicking. The pretend Reggie deleted his account instantly. The discussion board moderator and others tried to determine who the man was, however no luck. The man who made the all-caps submit defined after that he tried to protected browse the hyperlink with an previous Linux field and no matter was in there wrecked it. And that field had safety out the wazoo. He couldn’t clarify it. Additionally, earlier than the pc worn out utterly, he stated he thought he noticed one thing. The regulars pressed him to say what it was. He made them promise first that it stays with them. He stated he noticed an image of his daughter on the display. She’d died 5 years in the past. There have been no footage of her on the pc. Worse, he’d by no means seen that image earlier than. That, greater than something, satisfied him to submit the warning in all caps. No matter it’s, he stated, it’s evil.
Rap added, “In the event you’ve been on the web lengthy sufficient you study that. There’s evil on the market. Not the kid porn or torture movies. One thing deeper. One thing hidden in all of the code and connections. Perhaps it got here from us at one level.”
He was giving me the creeps. So I attempted to deliver the topic again to Angelica. He stated, “No, pay attention. Typically it tries to get out.”
That was sufficient. I informed him he was freaking me out with that sort of speak and I had sufficient to cope with.
He stated he didn’t perceive what I used to be speaking about. He nonetheless reads my homepage on a regular basis and that I’ve been doing nice work exposing the evil. Factor is, I don’t also have a “homepage” anymore. That factor was taken down in like 2001.
He insisted it was my Fortunecity homepage. He’d been studying my updates all these years, even after we misplaced contact, he stated. I despatched him a hyperlink to show to him that Fortunecity doesn’t even exist anymore.
Rap went quiet for a couple of minutes. Then he stated he was wanting on the homepage at that second. It was final up to date just some days in the past. And it was all about what they have been speaking about now and what was going to occur subsequent. “It’s a doozy,” he stated, then instantly went offline. I despatched him a message with my contact information and to let me know if he was okay. I haven’t heard from him since. I’ve checked ICQ a number of occasions and he’s by no means been again on-line…
I needed to stroll away from that pc. I felt like I used to be being watched or one thing. Each noise was freaking me out. After a sandwich and a few tea, I went again simply to close it down. That’s once I observed a folder on the desktop that stood out. For one, I by no means actually stored folders on my desktop. And two, I didn’t keep in mind this folder in any respect. It was referred to as “Noah’s Cape,” which feels like a crappy Bible recreation. I by no means performed crappy Bible video games.
One thing about it didn’t appear proper. I opened it. Inside was all footage and wav information. My instincts informed me to get out of there. One image after one other was simply youngsters. Teenagers, girls and boys, sitting at their computer systems. None of them appeared conscious they have been being photographed. The pics all appeared pointless. All I knew for positive is I didn’t take or obtain these footage. Ever. They have been all time-stamped 11/21/1999.
The wav information have been the sounds of typing, muttering, chairs shifting. The sounds of individuals at a pc. The sounds of surveillance. Till one of many information. It was a voice I’d by no means heard earlier than. I do know it. As a result of I don’t assume something might’ve made me overlook that voice. It was a hole, metallic voice, virtually inhuman, however a person. It whispered with a hiss, “You coming?” and its whispers have been like flesh scorching on iron.
Nothing of this earth ought to speak like that. What it stated—it was the identical as Angelica’s message. Additionally from ‘99. I shut down the pc and left the home. I didn’t even need to be in my own residence. I simply drove round for some time. Considering. No matter was happening, it was actually not good. But, I couldn’t let it go. I felt drawn into one thing secret and I needed to determine it out. For Angelica’s sake, too. If she actually was a sufferer.
I made a decision to contact my buddy Ben. He’s an actual pc wizard, works IT on the College of Guelph. I do know that will not sound like probably the most prestigious place to be, however they actively poached him. He’s good. Anyway, I gave Ben an concept of what was happening and requested if he might get a lock on that gopher website for me. I additionally requested, if he might safely do it, to see if there was something to this Gap website. He stated that wouldn’t be an issue.
The subsequent day he already comes again to me with the query, “Is that this some type of a joke? I don’t like losing my time.” I’d by no means seen Ben even barely irritated earlier than, however he was mad. He informed me when he traced the gopher website, it turned out it was being hosted proper there on the College of Guelph. However they didn’t have a gopher website, he stated. By no means have.
I assured him if it was a joke, I wasn’t in on it. So he stated he’d attempt to discover the server tower it was operating on. If he might do this, he might learn the logs, discover out who arrange the rattling factor.
Whereas I used to be ready for Ben to get again to me, I received a name from a Detective Thereault. The police hadn’t proven a lot curiosity in my case, however it occurred to land in entrance of this man. Fortunately. He stated the straightforward proven fact that Angelica had disappeared meant there was the likelihood that a crime had taken place. I agreed. Due to that, he had executed somewhat extra work and, he felt I ought to know, he discovered Angelica. When he advised me she was alive and nicely, I used to be thrilled. He stated she voluntarily ran away from house and selected to not have contact together with her household. She declined to say why, and he had no proper to compel her in any other case. Legally, he was sure to guard her privateness. The purpose is, “there was no crime.”
Nevertheless, when he informed her the way it happened that he went in search of her, she requested him if she might converse to me. He stated he took the freedom of accepting for me and handed on her telephone quantity. I thanked him heartily. It was the primary bit of excellent information, the primary actual break, on this mess.
As quickly as I hung up with the detective, I referred to as her. I used to be nervous. It’d been so lengthy and I used to be excited to listen to from her once more.
She answered shortly and requested if it was me. I advised her sure and stated it was good to listen to her voice in any case this time. Then she stated, with none pleasantries, “It wasn’t me sending you messages.” I informed her I’d figured that a lot out already.
“I don’t assume you perceive,” she stated. “I’ve by no means as soon as in my life despatched you any type of communication. I don’t know you in any respect.”
Part of me was screaming, ‘She’s mendacity.’ She simply sounded so sure. It virtually felt like drowning. As a result of if she wasn’t mendacity, an entire chunk of my youth was a lie. I informed her all I knew about her, private issues, and she or he stated they have been true. I informed her how I discovered her by means of her Wiccan homepage on Angelfire and I described the web page to her and the webring. She stated she didn’t make “that factor” and I ought to by no means have gone there. “It’s dangerous,” she stated and wouldn’t elaborate.
“What do you imply?” I requested.
Then I advised her all the small print I knew of her private life, about her likes and hopes and goals and her household. She stated it was all true. However whoever advised him about it, it wasn’t her.
That’s why she needed to speak to me now. So I might know the reality. She remembered the way it used to occur now and again a very long time in the past. She would have individuals inform her they talked to her on-line all night time, however she knew she’d by no means spoken to them. They usually’d inform her she was doing issues she knew she’d by no means completed. She was asleep or typically not even on the town. Then they’d get bizarre or disappear.
She remembered this one time she was doing her math homework, and a random man messaged her with the answer to the issue. She was terrified. However she requested him how he knew her math drawback, was he spying on her. And he informed her, no, she requested him for assist. She didn’t consider him. So he despatched her a screenshot. The message was from a day in the past. She’d simply gotten the homework that day.
She stated the worst it obtained was when she messaged an in depth pal of hers she noticed on-line on ICQ. Her good friend replied with, “Who is that this?” She thought it was only a joke, so she stated one thing foolish, she didn’t keep in mind what. Her pal stated she didn’t assume it was cool to be hacking Angelica’s account. Or if this was her brother, to knock it off. Angelica swore it was her. And her good friend replied, “Umm, I do know you’re not Angelica, as a result of Angelica’s sitting proper right here with me.”
She knew this good friend wouldn’t joke like that. She didn’t have the creativeness for it. No matter it was, her good friend actually believed she was within the room together with her. However she wasn’t. Her good friend all the time insisted she was there that night time. She stated Angelica was displaying her her cool, new homepage. The friendship fell aside after that, as a result of her good friend received unusual. That was the primary she’d ever seen of the homepage and she or he knew it was “dangerous juju.”
I requested her if she’d ever heard of The Gap. She went silent for therefore lengthy, I assumed we misplaced connection. She stated she’s nonetheless there, she simply by no means anticipated to listen to that once more. There was this man who used to harass her again when she was nearly 12 or 13, on IRC. He referred to as himself “HolyMoses.” He began off good. He appeared to know all her issues. And to know what she was considering. At 12, that felt romantic. However she observed bizarre issues, like he didn’t appear to have any life or character. Any time of the day, he was all the time on-line and lively. However no-one knew something about him.
At some point he began telling her stranger issues. Like, “Do you keep in mind the three males dressed as bees on the Halloween get together?” She didn’t know what he was speaking about. Eight years later at a university Halloween social gathering, she noticed three males dressed as bees sitting within the nook of the room. They weren’t doing something. Simply sitting nonetheless and staring on the flooring. Then they turned to her and their eyes seemed so black. She ran out of the social gathering.
One other time he informed her, “You possibly can drink and smoke, you already know. You died in a automotive crash.” It scared the life out of her. She briefly questioned if she actually was a ghost, she stated. When she informed him to cease telling her issues like that, he stated there was a spot she might go that was for particular individuals solely. And she or he’d by no means have to go anyplace else. It was a spot on the web that was infinite in all instructions. She stated she remembered him saying that particularly. And every little thing she wanted can be there. It was referred to as “The Gap” and she or he simply needed to ship him a message with the letter ‘M’ to get there.
She truly tried to do it, as a result of issues weren’t going nicely for her. However she despatched the letter ‘N’ accidentally, as a result of her palms have been shaking. HolyMoses went offline and she or he didn’t see him after. Till 2010, when she acquired an e mail from [email protected]om saying, “You coming?”
If anybody was impersonating her, she stated that was the almost certainly individual. On the time, she was so naïve. Wanting again on it now, speaking to me, she stated he was the creepiest individual she’d ever encountered. Simply considering of him creeped her out. And made her afraid he’d sense it by some means and are available for her.
“I don’t know you, however I advised you all this for a cause,” she stated. “What you’re digging into—watch out. There are lots of very dangerous issues hidden within the previous web. Issues the Twitter and Tumblr generations won’t ever see. And fortunate them.”
She promised we’d by no means converse once more and bid me a great life earlier than hanging up. I used to be left reeling. What she stated meant whoever I spoke to for years in my teenagers—I don’t even know who that individual is. It was all a lie. And why? What’s so fascinating about me? I questioned how a lot else in my life was trickery.
Earlier than I might dwell on it an excessive amount of, Ben referred to as me again. He stated he’d managed to trace the server to a storage room in a sub-basement under his workplace. He was conscious of the basement, nevertheless it was deserted years earlier than he even began working there resulting from air flow and mould points. It’s simply filled with previous IT crap now and a few storage lockers.
Somebody had arrange the server in a storage closet and the closet itself was utterly obscured by previous pc gear in all probability for years. He figures that’s why it was by no means discovered. Which means the server had been operating beneath their noses all that point.
When he will get in, he sees an previous desktop hooked as much as a landline. Beside it, he noticed a notepad with “PLEASE STOP” written on it. That alone made him need to get the hell out of there. The entire place is roofed in thick mud, too, and his allergic reactions have been appearing up. By some means the server was nonetheless operating. He has to hook up a monitor and keyboard simply to work together with it. One factor he stated in passing actually disturbed me. He stated, “The ironic factor is, the server was constructed with an auto-shutdown date. And the date was the identical day I used to be there to close it down. Dude, it’s prefer it knew I used to be going to be there that day.”
He stated after shutting it down, he went and advised his supervisor all about it. Only a enjoyable, IT anecdote. His supervisor informed him there’s actually just one man who might’ve set that up. Again within the early ‘90s, he stated, a man labored within the division all of them referred to as “Milky,” ‘trigger his final identify was Melke and he was actually white. He was a bit of eccentric, too. That had nothing to do with milk, it simply occurred to be true. Then he had a burnout and he acquired quite a bit eccentric.
It began with him pounding his desk. The supervisor on the time requested him if he was okay. In line with Ben’s boss, he answered with, “There’s no method out.” Then he heard Milky say one thing like, “You assume you exist, however you’re simply one other a part of it. All the things is simply one other puzzle. Do I exist?”
After that, the remainder of the division began getting nervous round Milky. You simply received dangerous vibes round him, the supervisor stated.
It obtained worse. Day by day round 3pm Milky began standing in a darkish nook of the workplace, dealing with the wall. He’d mutter some issues. The blokes joked that he was at his prayers. However he’d all the time come away wanting extra upset than anything. As soon as a brand new man requested him if he was a Muslim and he replied with, “I’m sorry.”
The man requested what he was sorry for.
“It was telling me how your youngsters die,” he answered.
Towards the top, earlier than they fired him, he began telling them about how he discovered a spot on the web that wasn’t made by people. The blokes joked that it was SkyNet. However he stated it wasn’t created by machines both. It was all the time there, the web simply discovered it accidentally. It confirmed him “issues he couldn’t unsee.” Ben’s boss even recalled that he began to tear up.
Ben’s boss informed him it was unhappy to see such a sensible man clearly dropping it. Despite the fact that Milky was by no means caught stealing something, gear disappeared throughout his shift. In all probability the gear that went into the server. Once they fired him, he informed them that the key place acquired into his head and that he’d typically get up in unusual locations and had no concept how he obtained there. They by no means noticed him once more after he left that day.
Ben stated, after that story and that creepy gopher server, he straight up refused to look into The Gap. I advised him it actually wasn’t that dangerous and to give up being a wimp. That’s when he stated he hadn’t advised me every part. The server had a linkup, via the telephone line, to a very previous webcam. A type of low res webcams the place the picture updates each four seconds or so. It’d been operating continuous since ’97. All the saved pictures simply present the entrance of somebody’s home. The identical home again to ’97. He despatched me a number of the photographs. As a result of he knew what it was. It was my home.
“Why would this man have been spying on you all these years in the past, man? How did he even know you? It doesn’t make any sense and it truthfully scares the shit out of me.”
And right here’s what I informed him. The factor about that webcam is, I simply purchased this home two years in the past. That digital camera was pointed right here earlier than I ever moved in. It was simply an astronomically unbelievable coincidence. No less than, that’s what it must be. However I didn’t consider that’s what it was anymore than he did.
* * * * * *
The subsequent day, I used to be nonetheless reeling from my conversations with Ben and the actual Angelica. I ran it over in my head so many occasions. Like, perhaps the police made a mistake. So in fact I’d by no means spoken to this lady, she was the flawed Angelica. However no, I knew every part about her. Somebody systematically deceived me for 2 years. And somebody had been recording a home I used to be going to maneuver into for twenty years. And somebody had recorded me once I was a boy. What occurred twenty years in the past to trigger all this? It was so insane. I began questioning every little thing. I felt I used to be being watched continuously.
I began to marvel if my Mother remembered something. She noticed me greater than anybody on the time, naturally. Once I referred to as her up, she stated she was anticipating me to name. I usually didn’t name through the week, so I requested why. She stated due to my little prank. I grew involved instantly. I wasn’t pranking anybody.
I attempted to calmly ask her what prank. She stated the 2 guys. They confirmed up with a notice from me to allow them to in. They don’t say something or do something. They’ve simply been sitting there, with their chairs pulled collectively, in her kitchen. Simply wanting on the flooring.
“You don’t acknowledge them in any respect?” I requested her. She laughed and stated no, however I feel she was beginning to understand I didn’t know what was happening. “They’re wearing bee costumes,” she stated, virtually as an afterthought.
I informed her to calmly get out of the home and name the police, as a result of I didn’t have something to do with this. She stated she was upstairs. She’d need to go previous them to get out. I informed her to maintain me on the telephone till she acquired out. I listened rigorously. It appeared to be taking eternally. Lastly she stated, “They’re gone. The entrance door was left open.” I advised her to name the police instantly and examine in with me in a bit.
Whereas speaking, I had absent-mindedly walked from my workplace to my very own kitchen. My entrance door was additionally left open. Not solely was it locked only a second in the past, nevertheless it appeared like fairly a coincidence.
I closed the door and locked it. Then I appeared throughout the home with a kitchen knife in hand. I’ve a one-storey with a basement. So it was straightforward sufficient to cowl all hiding locations. Fortuitously, there was no one. So I attempted to inform myself I simply didn’t shut the door proper. Till my neighbor came to visit and requested me if I used to be having a fancy dress celebration. I stated no. That’s when he informed me he noticed two guys in bee costumes leaving my residence. They only walked straight throughout the street and behind the neighbor’s home, into the woods. “How can they even see within the woods at night time?” he requested.
I picked up my mom and we went to the police station. I figured this one can be greatest in individual. All these unusual occasions barely appeared coherent. However I obtained the sensation it was all related ultimately.
The police have been baffled. They admitted somebody was harassing me. However with out extra proof, there was actually nothing they might do.
Once we have been making the report, my Mother informed me she was serious about one thing simply after this occurred. As a result of it struck her as odd. “Do you keep in mind the way you had this dialup modem and if you’d run it, you possibly can swear you’d hear a bit voice inside speaking to you?” The best way she stated it, prefer it was nothing, despatched a shiver by means of me. As a result of I didn’t keep in mind that in any respect. “What?” was all I might say.
That is what she stated: “Sure, you’d set it a-go and in all of the beeps and pops you stated there was a bit voice in there with a message. To me it was plenty of loopy noise. However you made me get actual shut and pay attention. And also you advised me it was saying, ‘All the things’s higher in right here. Abracadabra.’ Can’t consider I even remembered that.”
I informed her I couldn’t keep in mind that. That sounds loopy. However she simply gave me a clean stare. I assumed perhaps she was involved. So I began to inform her about what was occurring. The entire Angelica factor. So she’d perceive. I used to be saying, “You keep in mind that woman I used to talk with on-line within the ‘90s, Angelica?”
She stored giving me a clean stare, like she couldn’t perceive me. So I informed her extra. How I met her on the webring my fortunecity web page was on. And didn’t she keep in mind my homepage at the least? She shook her head. What she stated subsequent scared me in a means I’ve by no means been scared earlier than. She informed me she acquired an web connection after I left for school, to e mail me. However earlier than that “we by no means ever had the web in our house.”
I stated she should’ve gotten hit within the head. As a result of I keep in mind distinctly all these experiences being on-line. Constructing my homepage. Yiffnet. IRC. ICQ. All of that was once I was in highschool. She flat denied it.
She stated she remembered, although, that I used to inform her I’d discovered a solution to get into the web with no connection. I’d should name some quantity with my modem. Then I’d have to take a seat nonetheless on the display for a couple of minutes. One thing like that. She all the time thought I used to be joking.
Earlier than Det. Thereault got here to get us, she seemed into my eyes. “You ought to be cautious on that web, y’know,” she stated. “A number of dangerous issues on there.”
She rose to shake the detective’s hand. I used to be grateful to get off the topic. The detective provided to have a pal in pc forensics check out a few of the websites I’d reported. However he didn’t have a lot hope.
After I acquired again house, I secured the home another time. Then I set to work. The most effective lead I had at that time was this ‘HolyMoses’ character. So I downloaded mIRC to see if I might discover him in his previous haunts.
It had been a very long time since I’d used mIRC. I barely remembered the way it labored. And there are such a lot of channels on EFNet, it might take endlessly. So, I made a decision to give attention to channels that might’ve been related to “Angelica” again within the day. I simply began asking in channels, like @gothic and @vampires, if anybody knew of HolyMoses or heard of him. However every time I discussed him, the channel fell to virtually full “silence.” I didn’t get a sure or a no, I received ignored. Typically customers even began to go away the channel. I used to be about to surrender and check out one other avenue once I acquired a personal message from “u47284u”.
He (or she) advised me I shouldn’t be doing what I used to be doing. I requested him why. He stated it “doesn’t come off properly to them,” no matter meaning. He additionally stated HolyMoses is only a bot. It’s been round endlessly, by no means logs off, and is nearly all the time idling for days at a time. I informed him if that was true, why was everybody so reluctant to speak about it? I didn’t need to inform him Angelica’s story. I simply needed to seek out out what he knew.
He stated the entire thing weirds individuals out as a result of no one is aware of who constructed HolyMoses. No one. Over many years, no-one has ever claimed possession. Not even trolls. No one is aware of the place it got here from. Or why it’s there. It doesn’t do something. It’s simply there, he stated. That’s the creepiest factor about it. All the time simply there.
Legends had constructed up round HolyMoses, he stated. Prefer it was a authorities supercomputer monitoring IRC. Or it was the KGB. Or a “ghost,” a bot left operating lengthy after the proprietor died and his checking account stored paying the payments. However no-one is aware of. It was simply there.
Customers tried messaging it and it by no means responded. It by no means interacts in any channel. It provides no providers. It has moments of obvious exercise the place it’s not idle, however no-one’s been capable of detect what it does throughout this time. Besides sometimes a change of channel, seemingly at random.
He stated there was just one time when it did something substantial, so far as anybody knew. As soon as in over 20 years. And that solely made issues weirder.
I used to be typing out a message to ask this man what it was, as a result of he wasn’t saying. However simply then I heard what appeared like my entrance door slam. I paused and listened rigorously, making an attempt not even to breathe. I didn’t hear something. So I rushed out to the entrance door. No one was there, nothing disturbed. The doorways have been all closed and locked. I chalked it as much as nerves and went again to my workplace.
Once I received again, u47284u had despatched me a message: “The place’d you go? Hope nothing unusual occurred.”
That was just a little eerie. However I used to be targeted on getting solutions, so I ignored it and requested what it was HolyMoses did. He stated, “High quality, I’ll inform you.”
And that is what he stated occurred. In 1999, at 5AM CST on November 21st, HolyMoses joined the channel #ornithology and made a collection of brief statements. First, “Deceive them” at 7AM, “Empty it” at 9AM, “Abandon them” at 6PM. “Flip again” at 9PM. And “Have it your method” simply earlier than midnight. Then it went offline till January fifth. “Why?” he requested. Why be silent and ineffective for years, do this, after which by no means do something after? Typically, when he actually considered it, he stated, it gave him the intense heebie-jeebies.
That was all he knew. Or anybody knew. And he reiterated that I actually shouldn’t be wanting into this and to only drop it. I thanked him for his assist.
I remembered slightly extra of what instructions mIRC had after moving into the groove some. So I attempted a WhoIs on HolyMoses, to see if he was on the market. He was! Or it was. It was on one channel solely, #stilllife. It’d been signed on for 16 days and idle for three. Its IP was displaying solely the letter ‘Y’.
I used to be interested by going to the channel and messaging him. To see what would occur. However I instantly received one other message from u47284u, “I TOLD YOU TO DROP IT!”
I do know it’s simply textual content, nevertheless it freaked me out. I closed out of mIRC instantly and walked away. I figured it was only a nut making an attempt to psyche me out. And y’know what, it labored.
I continued to argue with my mom the subsequent few days about what she’d stated. Telling her she confused actuality with a Lifetime film. However she assured me there was no web in her home whereas I lived there. She stated I had my floppy disks that I’d take house with me, however that was it.
We went on arguing for some time earlier than it occurred to me to ask, “Take residence from the place?”
She stated she didn’t know. I’d exit at occasions and I’d come residence with disks. I had a Sterilite tub filled with them in my closet. None of them have been labeled, so she didn’t understand how I had any concept what was on every one. However I appeared to know. She remembered how I’d dive into my bin and dig round via all of the black disks and pop up with simply the one I needed. Usually she didn’t intrude on my privateness, she stated, she simply noticed me do it a number of occasions.
In fact, I didn’t keep in mind any floppy disks. Both my mom was turning into senile, or I used to be dropping my thoughts. Each prospects have been upsetting. My Mother’s a very good individual. She’d had a tough time since my dad died a number of years in the past. However she was tremendous caring. She didn’t wish to see anybody harm. And she or he might see I used to be really upset, not simply making an attempt to be proper. So, she gave me an enormous hug. And she or he advised me I ought to ask Ricky.
Ricky. I hadn’t considered him. Ricky was an previous highschool buddy of mine. Properly, we have been buddies from Grade 2 till we left for school. We simply drifted aside after. I had him friended on Fb and we by no means talked. You understand how it goes. She stated once I’d exit to wherever it was I went, I often had Ricky with me. We’d stroll all the best way throughout the bridge into city to move our weekends.
I made a decision to take her recommendation. I despatched Ricky a message on Fb. He wrote again actually quick. I used to be stunned, as a result of I by no means see standing updates or any exercise from him. I requested him if he was free for a telephone name. I used to be scared about having one other internet-only dialog, frankly. Fb stated he was typing a reply for about 5 minutes with out something occurring. I used to be questioning what the hell novel he was typing. Then my telephone rang. I didn’t acknowledge the quantity. I do know I by no means gave my quantity to Ricky, so there’s no method it could possibly be him, I although. Whereas I waited, taking a look at my telephone, Ricky began typing out durations time and again. I answered.
The voice on the opposite finish sorta appeared like Ricky. As a lot as I might keep in mind. However like he was actually distant on a beat-up CB. I don’t know why, however it made me really feel bizarre and uneasy. I stated I feel we have now a nasty connection. He stated it’s the absolute best and that he is aware of. I used to be about to ask what he is aware of when he stated, “alt dot rec dot birdwatch” and hung up. I acquired a message on Fb saying, “Good catching up.” He wouldn’t reply something I stated after that.
I requested people I knew if Ricky was okay. Apparently he was in a automotive accident years again and was principally bedridden. I made a observe to attempt go to him sometime…
Anyway, alt dot rec dot birdwatch, is in fact a UseNet newsgroup. I used to browse newsgroups on a regular basis as a teen. Principally for the porn. I used to be stunned they nonetheless existed. Now I needed to lookup methods to get to them. I remembered with the ability to do it via my e-mail software program. However apparently that’s not a function of Outlook anymore. So I seemed up newsgroup readers and located one I’d used again within the day. Then I discovered some servers and began in search of alt.rec.birdwatch.
Once I lastly discovered it, it turned out to be principally British up-skirt images. I didn’t perceive why Ricky needed me there. Till I noticed a submit with the header, “Keep in mind the canine?” and immediately felt clammy and chilly. I didn’t know why, however there was one thing to it. One thing I couldn’t put my finger on.
That is what the submit learn:
“Everybody keep in mind how typically you’d go in there and it’d be all dusty and no-one was there prefer it was deserted years in the past however you might nonetheless go sit at a pc and get on-line? And keep in mind how typically you’d go in and there’d be these individuals there they usually have been actually bizarre they usually’d simply watch you such as you have been a rat in a maze and typically they have been in costumes? Anybody keep in mind the canine? Typically there have been no individuals and there was simply this canine on the counter. I feel it was a golden retriever. It by no means panted. However it watched. And typically it’d make you do issues.”
That was it. And that was sufficient. I used to be trembling and I didn’t know why. It didn’t seem like anybody had replied to the message and it had been posted three years in the past. It appeared so misplaced.
I sort of began to recollect. I remembered a minimum of that there was an web café on the town. It didn’t final lengthy. Like most web cafes, it popped up round ‘96/’97 to benefit from the web craze and let individuals who didn’t personal computer systems expertise the marvel. When private computer systems turned extra widespread, they died a fast demise.
This café was widespread with the teenagers in ’96. It acquired stale after that. That’s when one thing occurred to it. It modified administration or one thing. It modified. We tried going again simply to hang around. However most youngsters didn’t need to be there anymore. I had some buddies who simply wouldn’t go. Or say why. However Ricky and I might cling on the market on a regular basis. Why couldn’t I keep in mind that earlier than? Perhaps Mother was proper all alongside. Perhaps that’s the place I used to be on the web.
I replied to the newsgroup message with, “Why wasn’t I capable of keep in mind?” It was an extended shot, because the publish was so previous. Then I began wanting via the opposite posts, to see if there have been others prefer it.
There have been others. They have been all obscure. However I knew what they have been about. I knew.
“Typically once we have been hanging out, we thought we have been there for simply an hour or so. However once we got here out, the entire day had handed. And once we talked about what we did there, we had utterly totally different tales. Although we have been collectively the entire time. It was like an acid journey. And we have been silly youngsters, so we stored going.”
The Egypt. That’s what the place was referred to as. None of those individuals would say its identify. However I remembered it then, all of a sudden. That unusual, little web café, simply behind the post-office, the place I didn’t even understand there was business area earlier than. The Egypt.
Another person posted:
“There was this one time when my good friend dragged me alongside and I didn’t really feel like being there. The house owners or employees or no matter weren’t there that day. It was the canine. I don’t like to consider it. Keep in mind the way it by no means panted? Someway that stands proud in any case this time.
“We have been simply goofing off. Nothing particular. Once I seemed over at my pal’s display, he was watching a reside webcam of my bed room. Simply watching it. I’m considering this can be a dumb joke, nevertheless it pisses me off. So I informed him that was bizarre and I used to be not okay with a webcam in my room. He simply stated, ‘One thing’s going to occur.’ Gave me the heebie-jeebies. He wasn’t joking. And it didn’t even sound like him.
“Right here’s the factor that will get me most. I made a decision to go away, however have to piss first. On the best way out, I’m going over to my buddy and he’s nonetheless watching the webcam. That annoys me. However worse, once I take a look at the display, somebody’s in my bed room ransacking the place. Beneath the mattress, in drawers. I’m able to go residence and get one among dad’s golf golf equipment. Then the man seems to be proper on the digital camera and begins taking it down. I noticed that dude’s face. It was me! Little question about it. That was my face. How is that potential?
“You’re considering the webcam wasn’t reside. However it was…”
Somebody replied to that submit with:
“Whenever you have been within the rest room, did you attempt knocking on the wall? Somebody knocks again.”
Somebody replied to that with:
“I did. He stated he’d let me in, however there’s no door.”
Within the sea of birdwatching pictures and up-skirts courting again to ’95, that was all I might discover. Took me all night time. I closed it down. It was an excessive amount of. I used to be psyching myself out. The subsequent day, I had a reply to my submit asking why I couldn’t keep in mind. It learn, “You weren’t meant to.”
I felt it then. That one thing actually fallacious would occur in that place, the Egypt.
So I began performing some analysis into native data to see if I might discover who owned it. They’re public data, so it wasn’t onerous. I’d anticipated to seek out some change in administration within the ‘90s. Or the place the place received bought within the 2000s. I anticipated mistaken. It was bought in 1980 and had had the identical proprietor ever since. An organization or group referred to as ‘The New Method.’ It seemed like a cult. The bizarre factor is, that place was by no means used earlier than the Egypt, so far as I do know. In 1980 there wasn’t actually an web. So… who would purchase a spot and do nothing with it for 15 years, simply ready for the web to occur? All of it appeared too mysterious. Plus there was nothing about this firm anyplace.
It’s exhausting to explain how alone I began to really feel presently. I talked to some individuals in my life about what was happening, however their assist was restricted. That’s why I made a decision to attempt to return to alt.rec.birdwatch, if it was nonetheless there. No less than there somebody may be having an identical expertise. So I made my submit. I requested if anybody else had heard of The New Means.
Then I waited. To my shock, I acquired a name from Ben proper after. He requested me if I’d “executed something” just lately. I requested him to be extra particular.
“It’s essential to have carried out one thing, as a result of one thing occurred,” he stated.
I nonetheless had no concept what he meant. He sounded unusual. His phrases have been simply barely slurred and there was no accent anyplace in his sentences. Only a string of phrases. Virtually like a robotic, however not fairly. And it had that distant high quality Ricky’s name had.
“One thing’s occurring proper now,” he informed me. “I booted it up once more.”
Ben was simply probably the most rational, bland man. One thing was undoubtedly improper for him to be appearing like this. I requested him if he was okay. He stated that I wanted to verify my messages. I requested what messages.
He insisted, “Pay attention. You need to examine your messages. They’ve been ready for you.”
The entire thing didn’t really feel proper in any respect. I requested him once more what messages he meant. All I heard was little whispering sounds, like pst-pst-pst. I assumed I used to be dropping him. However once I listened rigorously and turned up the quantity, I heard it. He was saying “please” time and again and over. I felt a pit in my abdomen. I requested if he wanted assist, if there was something I might do. He went silent for a number of seconds.
“PLEASE!” he shouted so loud I dropped my telephone.
I scrambled to place the battery again in with shaking palms. After which I referred to as in a wellness examine on him. I referred to as the Guelph campus, too, simply in case. I didn’t know what else to do. I’d by no means skilled something like that. I checked my e-mail proper after to see if I had something from him. However I didn’t.
I had no voicemails. The one different ‘messages’ I might consider was ICQ. So I powered up the previous pc once more to examine on my ICQ account. It’s potential there was nothing. I simply had to ensure. It took eternally to load up. However there was a message ready. It wasn’t from anybody I acknowledged. The identify on the account was “Bernie Busch.” The message stated, “Heaven.” There was a hyperlink to an mp4 video. I clicked it. The obtain field stated it will take 30 hours to finish. So I simply let it go.
I attempted replying to “Bernie,” too, however ICQ alerted me that the account was disabled. I additionally couldn’t discover any outcomes on any seek for such an individual. I don’t assume Ben would ever make a pretend account like that. However how did Ben know concerning the message?
I obtained contacted by somebody from Guelph College’s campus safety later that day. They requested me once I’d final spoken to Ben. I informed them he’d simply referred to as. They stated he hadn’t been to work in a number of days and has not been answering the telephone. I used to be apparently the final one to listen to from him. They beneficial I file a lacking individual’s report. I requested if his household shouldn’t do this, however the dude simply snorted. So I made the report, over the telephone, to the Guelph PD. I used to be fairly fearful concerning the man. I hoped he was okay. I additionally hoped his disappearing had nothing to do with something I received him concerned in.
The subsequent day, I received an e mail replying to my submit newsgroup submit. I acknowledged the handle. It was the identical one that posted concerning the canine. She stated I wanted to name her urgently and offered a 1-800 quantity adopted by what appeared like a license plate quantity, 472BMT. Once I referred to as, I obtained an interactive menu system for a tanning provides firm. Once I listened to the choices, I received the concept 472BMT may be the right way to navigate the menu. So I pressed every of the numbers within the order she stated. The system stated I used to be being transferred to an “Account Specialist.”
I heard somebody decide up the road.
“You’re beginning to keep in mind, aren’t you?” a voice stated.
I feel I gasped. She stated she couldn’t speak lengthy, so I needed to simply pay attention. She needed to inform me one thing which may assist me. She stated she began remembering a few yr in the past. She remembered the ‘periods’ within the Egypt. They preyed on weak, misfit youngsters. Whoever got here there obtained launched progressively to this web site referred to as The Gap. As soon as they confirmed it to us, we needed to sit there and research it. Remedy its puzzles. Nevertheless it’d change us. That’s what they all the time stated. She didn’t know in the event that they constructed it or not. However it’s what they have been all about.
“I feel we’re nonetheless within the Gap,” she stated.
I attempted to ask her what that even meant. What she was speaking about. She had already hung up earlier than I acquired the prospect. I attempted calling her again, however the menu choices didn’t work anymore. I used to be extra confused than ever. I felt like I didn’t know what was actual anymore. That’s a horrible place to be. Belief me. All I used to be positive of was that I’d come into one thing very flawed once I was a teen and it was coming again. I didn’t know why it took a trip or what it needed. I simply needed my life again to regular.
After that, I instantly remembered the video file I left downloading on my previous pc. I checked and it had utterly downloaded. I wasn’t positive I needed to know what it was, however I performed it anyway.
I knew what I used to be taking a look at as quickly because the video began. It was footage of contained in the Egypt. It’d been a very long time. However it hit me quick. There was no timestamp, the footage was grainy and the monitoring was off, however I knew it. It seemed prefer it was from a nook safety cam. There all of us have been, sitting at our computer systems. Unusually sufficient, our backs have been to the screens. We have been watching a wall. I noticed myself within the group. We simply sat there, staring forward. No one was shifting or saying something. I couldn’t make out what the computer systems have been doing behind us, however we weren’t touching them. What have been we observing? What have been we doing? Why would I do that? I couldn’t keep in mind these occasions in any respect.
I used to be the one one which ever appeared away from the wall. I stored glancing over behind the bar. It was exhausting to inform, however I feel I used to be afraid of one thing. I appeared frightened. I attempted to make out what I used to be taking a look at, however the monitoring strains have been in the best way. Once they pale somewhat and I used to be capable of make it out. Somebody was standing there within the shadows. Whoever it was, at simply that second turned to look proper on the digital camera. It’s like they knew I used to be watching. I do know that’s loopy. Nevertheless it creeped the heck out of me. I shut the video down there. And I don’t plan to open it once more.
After that, I stored researching the New Approach. ’trigger there needed to be one thing to it. I used to be in a position discover a report that talked about the proprietor’s identify, Bernard Okay. Busch. The identical identify as on the ICQ message. I appeared for obituaries, white pages, something that would lead me to him. I didn’t assume to search for lacking individual’s instances, however I came upon one anyway. An previous homepage asking to, “Assist us discover Uncle Bern.” I emailed his niece (presumably) from the handle listed asking for extra info. The web page was made within the yr 2000, so I didn’t anticipate the e-mail to work. However it did. I acquired a reply the identical day asking me how I knew Uncle Bern.
I wasn’t positive find out how to reply, however I made a decision to go together with honesty. I advised her kind of what was happening, leaving out the elements that may make me sound delusional. That is what I received again.
“I’m going to place this multi functional message as a result of I don’t need us to have to speak once more. Uncle Bern was a very good man. He was a rabbi. He raised me after my mother and father died in an accident. He was good with electronics. He thought computer systems have been the longer term. That’s why he referred to as his firm The New Method. He purchased up all of the business area he might afford together with his inheritance. Everywhere in the nation. It was greater than he might deal with. So he simply rented it out.
“Life was good. He stored promoting computer systems in his little store. I helped once I acquired house from faculty and on weekends. He stored bees and I helped with that, too. Actually, life was good. Till he married Connie in 1994. He met her throughout a go to to Europe. He stated she labored in the identical orphanage she’d been raised in and no one knew a lot else about her. She was a wierd lady. She didn’t like me. She was into issues that scared me. I noticed her make a homeless man cry by watching him. Animals would go quiet when she was round. Typically she’d cover beneath my mattress for hours, ready for me to go to mattress at night time. Once I did, she’d slide out and seize me. I’d scream and scream. She’d stroll away like nothing occurred. She didn’t snigger or say something. It wasn’t a prank or joke. It was one thing else. I didn’t perceive. I nonetheless don’t. I began sleeping on a beanbag chair within the basement after that.
“She’d typically go right into a nook of the room and whisper to somebody. There was no one there. No telephone or nothing. She’d even get mad at whoever it was. Then she’d return to knitting. She was all the time knitting one thing, however the issues she’d knit have been ineffective. Gloves with three fingers. Socks, however she’d seal up the ends, so that you couldn’t put on them. I didn’t hate her. I used to be scared to demise of her. I don’t know why she made Uncle Bern so completely happy.
“I keep in mind the day she began pressuring him to show his rental areas into web cafes. She informed him the web was the actual future and would outlast computer systems. She’d say, ‘We’re the web.’ She made him get it at house, despite the fact that it was actually costly then. She had him go to this web site she stated didn’t actually exist. I keep in mind that, as a result of it all the time made me nervous when she talked about it. Uncle Bern requested her who made it. She stated she had no concept. No one did. She discovered it already made, identical to everybody else. She advised him it referred to as to her. It referred to as to everybody like her. On the time, I assumed that sounded flakey. Now it simply provides me creeps.
“Uncle Bern modified after that. They spent a number of time on that web site. I don’t perceive it. There was nothing there. I seemed over their shoulders and it was all clean. However they noticed all types of issues. And when the web cafes began opening, extra individuals have been concerned. It was unusual. They might sit and stare into area. And unusual issues would occur. Like I might swear I heard a voice in my modem once I’d dial up and once I listened, it was saying, “it hurts.” I made a decision it was all in my head. One other time I obtained an e mail asking, ‘Why wasn’t I capable of keep in mind?’ I don’t know why that message upset me a lot. Twenty years in the past, however I keep in mind it so vividly.
“One night time once I was alone with Uncle Bern for as soon as, I informed him I wanted issues can be like they was. He stated that’s what everybody needs. However it could actually’t be. He leaned in shut and whispered, ‘It talks. Tells us issues.’ He advised me about how—that is unusual and I didn’t perceive it, however I’ll attempt—how human beings are set to be out of date and they should improve for the brand new period. He stated Y2K—for those who keep in mind that—wasn’t going to have an effect on computer systems like everybody thought. They’d be high-quality. It was going to vary individuals. Both you advanced otherwise you wouldn’t like what’s coming.
“I didn’t dare inform my Uncle Bern that this was loopy. I couldn’t harm his emotions like that. However I knew one thing dangerous was going to occur. He and Connie went off to open their web cafes throughout and I left house for school. Uncle Bern stored in touch till 1999. Then he simply disappeared. Connie, too.
“I do know some dangerous issues occurred round these web cafes. Nevertheless it’s not Uncle Bern’s fault. Please don’t blame him.”
I had lots extra questions and I despatched them to her. I by no means heard again. That’s attending to be an actual motif in my life. However a minimum of she gave me some solutions. And all of it led proper again to the Gap. It needed to be the identical mysterious web site. Simply needed to be. I figured if I ever needed to know what was happening, I’d need to go to the Gap myself.
I pulled up the directions ‘Angelica’ despatched me on tips on how to get there. I can’t say I felt like I used to be doing the fitting factor. I didn’t. It felt ass over tea kettle flawed. Like there was one thing actually horrible simply off-screen in my reminiscences. I knew it was there, however I couldn’t see it. So I welcomed the interruption when my telephone rang.
My neighbor was calling to inform me the person within the bee costume was again. He stated the person was standing in my entrance yard. I walked over to the window and peeped out. It was good and toasty inside, however I felt my entire physique breaking into goosebumps. He was there, beneath the streetlight. Wanting proper on the window together with his insectoid eyes.
I requested my neighbor how lengthy he’d been there. He stated he referred to as me as quickly as he noticed it and that I ought to grasp up and name the police. I began to try this. However there was no level calling the police. As quickly as I hung up, he walked throughout the street and into the woods.
When hanging up, I acquired a notification on my telephone of an e mail from Ben. There was no textual content, only a video file. I performed it instantly. It began with him chatting with the digital camera. He seemed scared and like he hadn’t had sleep in about two days.
“I went into hiding,” he stated, his voice shaking. “Issues simply acquired too bizarre. Little stuff at first. Then one night time, like 3am, a gaggle of individuals I’ve by no means seen earlier than knock on my door I didn’t reply. I watched them via the peephole. They didn’t transfer. They didn’t knock once more. They didn’t attempt to look within the peephole. They only stood there, staring on the door. They didn’t look homeless or loopy. Simply individuals. Regular, on a regular basis individuals. I referred to as by way of the door that that they had the fallacious handle. They began laughing, loud, pretend guffaws. Then they silently walked away.
“Then I begin getting calls the place all I can hear is a person growling like a canine on the opposite finish. And some growly phrases, like, ‘why,’ and ‘abracadabra.’
“It should have actually gotten to me, man, as a result of I began having matches. I don’t know what I do throughout these matches. I do know I upset a woman on the grocery retailer. No matter you bought me into, it’s dangerous juju. Like KGB. Illuminati dangerous.”
He pointed the digital camera away from himself to a pc monitor. When he was turning, I acknowledged the notepad on the desk. The identical one from his description. He was in that basement storage locker. With the gopher website. I’d thought he’d shut that factor down. There was a picture on the display, updating each few seconds. However this one wasn’t pointing at my home like earlier than. It was inside.
“Watch,” he whispered.
With every body replace, I noticed a brand new shot of the within of my home. First the kitchen. Replace, the hallway. Replace, my workplace door. Replace, the door barely ajar. Replace, the door opened extra. Replace, getting into my room. Replace, me sitting on the pc. I might hardly breathe. I rotated slowly, anticipating to see somebody there. However the video wasn’t reside, in fact. Once I rotated, the webcam was only a black display. Due to that, I used to be capable of make out the timestamp. It was tomorrow’s date. I’m positive somebody simply fiddled with the date, however that solely made it creepier, if that’s even potential.
Now I had video proof of breaking and getting into. Besides nothing to say who did it or why. I used to be dropping confidence in police altogether.
The very last thing Ben stated on the video is that he went forward and traced that hyperlink I gave him to “The Gap.” He was capable of get a selected handle. I knew the tackle he gave me very nicely. As a result of it’s duplex condo I grew up in. That didn’t make any sense. Nonetheless, I knew if I needed to know what was occurring, that’s the place I’d should go.
My hometown isn’t too removed from the place I stay now. I moved to go to school. It’s a few 4 hour drive away. My Mother moved to be near me after Dad died, so I not often have a cause to go there. I heard from Mother once they determined to desert the duplexes. For no matter purpose, they couldn’t promote or lease them anymore and didn’t have the price range to renovate, so the city authorities is simply letting them rot.
Once I first heard that information, I didn’t care a lot. I attempt to not get sentimental. However getting ready to see the place once more, the place I had so many reminiscences—it acquired to me. The times of watching He-Man in my fuzzy Star Wars pajamas. The times of watching The X-Information with Mother. The times of mendacity in mattress all summer time studying UFO books. In fact I noticed it’d simply be empty area now, nothing in widespread with these reminiscences aside from a flooring plan.
These emotions vanished quickly after I arrived. I used to be capable of sneak in via front room window within the again, identical to I used to do once I’d get residence from faculty and understand I forgot my keys. The second ft hit the linoleum flooring, the music began. It was low and distorted at first, so I couldn’t make out what it was. It didn’t matter. Somebody needed to be in there. And that somebody knew I used to be there…
I waited for a sound aside from the music. Nothing. I felt somewhat extra braveness. So I began strolling towards the steps. The music obtained louder, however no much less distorted. The tune was acquainted, although. I went up the steps slowly. That’s the place my previous room was. By the point I acquired to the highest, I knew what I used to be listening to. “Early within the Morning” by Vainness Fare. An oldie. And it was coming from a dirty previous radio propped in entrance of my bed room door. That was odd, as a result of the identical music began enjoying once more when it reached the top. What radio station performs the identical music twice in a row? I switched the radio off.
Doing that, I noticed, telegraphed my actual location. I broke out into a chilly sweat for a second ready for one thing to occur. However all I heard now was a buzzing from within the room. Like a beehive. I observed my identify placard was nonetheless on the door. Different individuals had lived there after Mother left, I’m positive of that. Both these individuals selected to go away my identify on a door of their residence, or somebody had put it again. Both method was bizarre.
I opened it. I didn’t and nonetheless don’t know how one can react to what I noticed inside. The room had been set as much as look precisely prefer it did once I was a teen. Not prefer it did after I left for school and even simply earlier than. Prefer it did in 1999. Right down to the small print. The Halloween lights across the desktop. Fangoria posters on the partitions. My previous Mr. T pillow on the mattress. Somebody needed to have recognized my room in intimate element to have achieved this. It was insane. Me, my Mother, and Ricky are about the one ones…
However there have been some particulars that have been off. At first, that was comforting. Then the extra I considered it, they appeared intentional. Like on the Candyman poster, it stated it starred Tiny Lister as an alternative of Tony Todd. And the wall was painted with the identical type of stucco, however the shade was a shade or two off. Issues like that. They have been all over the place. That was extra troubling to me than the recreation itself. It’s prefer it was recreated in a nasty dream. Or all of it meant one thing.
I discovered the place the buzzing was coming from, at any fee. It was the pc. It was operating. I sat down and activated the display. Like the remainder of the room, the desktop was a trustworthy snapshot of 1999. Each icon simply as I remembered. I couldn’t discover something operating out of the peculiar. It was like being transported to the previous.
That’s once I observed the one factor out of order with my desktop. An icon method within the nook, virtually off the display, referred to as “Milk and Honey”. I by no means had any such file. I’m positive of that. I began shifting the mouse as much as it. I felt unusually afraid to open it. Earlier than I might, the radio began blasting “Early within the Morning” once more. My coronary heart virtually stopped.
I appeared behind me anticipating the worst. No one was there. I received as much as change the radio off. Nevertheless it was nonetheless off. I checked the batteries and there have been none. That’s once I realized the music wasn’t coming from the radio. I don’t assume it ever was.
I needed to get out of there. I’ve felt worry earlier than. I don’t assume I’ve ever recognized what dread seems like earlier than then. Not likely. However I needed to discover out what “Milk and Honey” was. It loaded a Telnet connection. I hadn’t seen a type of shortly. The connection labored, as a result of in a couple of seconds an ASCII mountain crammed the window.
I waited and waited for one thing to occur. However nothing did. Simply the mountain. I attempted submitting some inputs. I even questioned if the connection died. I used to be going to retry, however I obtained a telephone name from Det. Thereault simply then.
“Are you alone?” he requested.
I assumed that was unusual. However I advised him I believed I used to be. However I wasn’t positive. He requested the place I used to be. I advised him. He stated I wanted to get out of that home slowly and calmly, get in my automotive, and drive again to him. His voice—I knew that sound. It was managed panic. One thing was undoubtedly mistaken.
I used to be able to pay attention. However I informed him I needed to know what’s happening. He stated he had a intestine feeling about one thing and determined to examine again with Angelica to ensure the whole lot was OK. All the things was not. He stated that woman he’d put me in touch with two weeks in the past was not Angelica. That they had no concept who that lady was, as a result of no-one’s been capable of finding her. The house she was in was apparently between renters. No one lived there on the time. All they discovered left behind was a script detailing what she was imagined to say when she spoke to me.
I used to be speechless. And confused. I’d simply readjusted my considering to consider every little thing with Angelica was a lie. And now that the reality concerning the lie was additionally a lie, did that make the lie true? Nevertheless it received worse. Det. Thereault stated he contacted Angelica’s household once more and requested extra questions. Much more. She had each message I ever despatched her printed out. Footage of me. A map of my hometown. A doll. He stated in a number of the footage I used to be clearly sleeping. Did I do know of any such footage? I couldn’t converse. He took my silence for a ‘No.’ And he was proper.
“There’s extra,” he stated. “However you need to get again right here now. Calmly.”
I thanked him and ready to do exactly what he stated. That’s once I observed extra had occurred on the telnet display. There was a query up. “Are you alone?”
“Is that you simply?” I requested, however the Detective had already hung up. I didn’t actually assume it was him anyway. I’d simply hoped.
I responded within the Telnet shopper that I believed I used to be alone.
As quickly as I did, sound began coming from the pc audio system. It got here out sluggish and garbled. “This message is a warning transmitted by dilatons after after 21 hundred, break this gadget, shut all of it down, get out, save your self.”
I had no concept what it meant, actually. I solely keep in mind it as a result of it stored repeating, so I used to be capable of report it. Aside from that, I couldn’t discover something unusual on the pc. I unplugged it from every little thing anyway, simply in case.
I obtained up, able to calmly exit just like the detective stated. I might’ve been okay, I feel. However I noticed one thing. One thing that froze me in place. There have been strands of darkish hair flowing from underneath the mattress. I simply stored observing them. Mentally, I wanted to ensure I used to be seeing proper, that it wasn’t simply threads. It was darkish in that space, in any case. My eyes adjusted slowly and I noticed I wasn’t simply taking a look at hair. I had been wanting proper into somebody’s eye for half a minute. And whoever it was had simply been staring proper again the entire time.
I screamed. And I ran, leaping a number of steps at a time, out the entrance door. Positive, it wasn’t my proudest second. What issues is I lived.
I don’t know who that was. I didn’t need to discover out. Understanding I used to be being watched that entire time. It nonetheless felt like that eye was on me. That’s just about ruined my reminiscences of that place perpetually.
There was only one different factor to do on the town whereas I used to be there. The Egypt. I don’t know if I disconnected “The Gap” by unplugging that pc. However I nonetheless needed to face the Egypt once more.
Once I received there, the parking zone of the submit workplace was utterly empty. I parked in again, in entrance of the filthy, previous home windows of what was an web café. I didn’t even have to interrupt in. The glass within the door had already been busted. I simply needed to attain in and unlock. My hand began tingling as quickly as I reached in. I stored anticipating somebody or one thing to seize my hand.
Once I obtained in, I used to be shocked to see it hadn’t actually modified in any respect. Computer systems in all places. An indication-up sheet on the counter. And no-one there. I began listening to some low voices. As quickly as I did, I seemed round for a spot to cover. The voices continued, distant and muffled. It took me a second to acknowledge my very own voice. It was the dialog I’d had with Angelica. The half the place she informed me about being seen in locations she’d by no means been. It was coming from one of many computer systems. I received nearer to it and I might see somebody was up on the display. I knew what it was immediately. The animated skeleton gifs and hyperlinks to conspiracy theories and Heaven’s Gate. Yeah, it was my homepage. The one which was deleted virtually 20 years in the past. I by no means thought I’d see it once more. However why? Who put it there?
On one other pc, I noticed a video of a middle-aged couple staring into the digital camera. Like they have been watching me. And just a little woman peeking over their shoulder. The lady stated, “It selected you” and the person was shaking his head barely. He seemed frightened.
Then one other pc began enjoying a track. I acknowledged the sound of Vainness Fare once more. “Hitchin’ a Experience.” That made it click on. I’d simply walked right into a lure. I needed to get out.
However I couldn’t. These individuals began coming inside. I hadn’t even heard them approaching. A middle-aged lady with lengthy, black hair, well-dressed. An older businessman, it appeared like. A rough-looking homeless man. Increasingly individuals crowded in with out saying something. They have been shifting towards me. I attempted speaking to them, however their faces have been clean, impassive. They didn’t appear to listen to. I bumped into the toilet and closed the door behind me. It had a easy turn-the-bolt lock, so I locked it.
I pulled out my telephone to see if I might get the police, however there was no sign. I began hyperventilating and needed to catch myself towards the wall. That’s once I remembered the story concerning the man knocking on the wall. Perhaps there weren’t bricks on the opposite aspect. I knocked for a hole spot and when I discovered one I began kicking a gap within the drywall. I tore the remainder of the opening open with my arms. There was area again there. I used my telephone’s flashlight to look inside. The area was about two ft in width to the brick wall. I stepped inside. There have been tons of floppy disks stashed in there. It was loopy.
I heard these individuals respiration outdoors the door. They weren’t making an attempt to open it or beat it down. They have been respiration closely towards it. Then I noticed one thing shifting beneath the door body. I assumed it was a finger slipping beneath, perhaps making an attempt to seize a shoelace or one thing. Nevertheless it was too pink. Too moist. It was a tongue. Certainly one of them was licking beneath the door.
That scared me sufficient to go deeper into the area, stumbling over items of sheetrock. However there was nowhere to go. Whereas I waited for one thing, something to occur, I observed two issues. One, written above the opening I simply made, on the within, “The Gap” had been painted. The opposite, it wasn’t sheetrock I used to be stumbling over. It was bones. I don’t understand how lengthy I sat there. Instantly the respiration sounds stopped. A couple of minutes later, Detective Thereault burst into the toilet. The door splintered on the first thrust. These individuals might’ve gotten to me in the event that they’d needed to.
The detective stated no-one was on the market when he arrived. Whereas he escorted me out, I noticed all of the computer systems have been gone, the guestbook, all of it. However the bones and floppy disks have been there and really actual. He stated we’d have lots to debate.
After I obtained away from the police station, I got here residence and settled right down to attempt to loosen up. Something to relaxation my nerves. Simply as I settled, I received an e mail notification on my telephone that stated, “please look” and offered a hyperlink. I didn’t acknowledge the quantity. However because the hyperlink was to a Guelph College web page, I figured it was Ben.
The hyperlink introduced me to the webcam that Ben discovered weeks in the past on the Gopher server. I used to be regretting my determination to belief it already. Why couldn’t they only depart me alone? The frames stored updating, however nothing was occurring. Till, with one replace, I noticed the trunk of my automotive was opening. When the body up to date four seconds later, the trunk was absolutely open and somebody was hanging half out. I assume I used to be mesmerized, as a result of I simply stored watching, ready for the subsequent body replace. Whoever it was, he was standing at my door.
I went to my entrance door and appeared out the peephole. No-one was there. I checked out my telephone once more to examine the webcam. Somebody was—or must be—standing proper in entrance of it. Perhaps it was one thing that occurred up to now. I appeared by means of the peephole once more and it was blocked. It took a second to comprehend I used to be wanting proper into somebody’s face. An terrible, hate-filled face.
I took my telephone with me to my workplace and locked the door. I heard my entrance door knob rattling after which open. I knew I’d locked it. Whoever it was walked in purposefully proper to the workplace, like they already knew the place I used to be going. I didn’t have a lot confidence within the lock. I anticipated the door to fly open instantly. As an alternative, I heard a bizarre, distant voice, identical to once I spoke to Ricky. It was just like the climate radio tuned to the flawed frequency.
“Why did you allow?” it requested.
I referred to as 911. I heard the operator decide up, however I couldn’t converse. The door opened and this individual walked in. His face was hazy. Nevertheless it was acquainted. He had some sort of weapon. He pressured me to get on my pc and go to the Gap. He walked me via every step. I didn’t have a selection. I did it. In any case these years, there it was. The identical, bland web page that appeared to do nothing. However I might really feel it like fingers poking in my mind.
It was like I used to be nonetheless in my workplace. However that man was gone. So have been different issues. I might see issues that have been all the time there however weren’t actually there. It was all the identical, however just a bit totally different.
I used to be nonetheless on the telephone with 911, I noticed. I attempted to inform the operator that the person was gone. Nothing I stated was popping out proper. I stored telling the operator that I noticed tot I noticed a putty cat. And the operator was telling me, “That’s the Captain. He’s a jackal. And he’s not proud of you.”
“You ever heard of phreaking?” somebody requested. It was disorienting, however I knew immediately I used to be taking a look at Ben. And I wasn’t in my residence. There was a man standing with Ben that I didn’t acknowledge. I requested if I used to be in Guelph and the way I obtained there.
He assured me I used to be in a motel in my hometown. He didn’t belief technologically facilitated communication anymore, so he got here all the best way to speak to me. And he launched his affiliate as ‘Milky.’ He’d discovered him holed up in a Catholic commune in rural Ontario. They stated I used to be in critical hazard.
Milky spoke then. His voice was slurred. He was conscious of it, as a result of he apologized for it. He went on to inform me what occurred to him. He stated he’d been part of this hacking group for years. Nothing for revenue. Simply good ol’ customary mischief. They particularly appreciated dicking with fringe and non secular teams. They began on IRC. When the WWW turned the factor, they migrated to an internet discussion board. In the future a hidden hyperlink seems on the discussion board. Different members attempt to scrub it and demand that no-one contact it.
One of many guys on the discussion board, considered one of their oldest members who fled the Soviet Union again within the ‘70s, stated he knew what it was. It was studied earlier than and it was by no means, ever alleged to be obtainable to the general public. He’d seen what Stalin might do, what murderers might do, and he wasn’t scared. That was life. This factor scared him.
It seemed like a placed on. Milky stated this man had a wholesome humorousness. However the man swore it was actual. He stated it began means again when the primary computer systems have been being networked. The electrons and different particles which might be introduced collectively and herded about in making these connections depart empty areas of nothing the place they have been. It’s like an “antinet.” And the increasingly more we join everywhere in the world, the extra this vacancy grows.
And what’s so scary about that? somebody on the discussion board requested. And he replied, “Simply because it’s empty area doesn’t imply there’s nothing in it.” He wouldn’t elaborate on that. Regardless of how a lot they tried. He’d solely inform them he’d seen it for himself.
Milky figured the man didn’t need to make them interested in it. That failed. He was very interested in it. Greater than ever. So he clicked the hyperlink. He remembered being disenchanted by it. As a result of it was only a clean web page. However after clicking it, he began to note unusual issues occurring. He misplaced monitor of time. He’d be advised by acquaintances that he’d executed issues he had no reminiscence of doing. And even that he couldn’t have executed, as a result of he was doing one thing else.
This one time, he heard his canine barking. It was 3AM. He received as much as see what was happening. The canine was standing within the entrance to his front room simply barking nonstop. He expects to discover a mouse cornered in there. However he stated he remembers being so startled, he tried to scream however no sound would come out. Two males in enterprise fits have been sitting on his sofa.
He instantly considered a mob hit. Nevertheless it’s Canada. What mob? He turned on the sunshine. They didn’t flinch. They appeared like regular businessmen. They have been staring on the flooring, consuming Capri Solar. He advised them to get out of his home or he’d name the police. They only obtained up and left. On the best way out, one in every of them stated, “You requested us to return and sit right here.” He by no means noticed these males once more in his life.
One other time, he referred to as his brother in Vancouver to want him a cheerful birthday. That they had a pleasing chat and he hung up the telephone, went about his enterprise. About an hour later, it hit him like a punch within the intestine. His brother died two years in the past. He all the time referred to as him on his birthday. He simply did it so reflexively, and when he acquired a solution, it was like previous occasions.
“Who the hell was I speaking to, man?” he requested.
His tales sounded lots like those the pretend/actual Angelica advised me about once I talked to her weeks in the past. So both I used to be chatting with the actual Angelica then, or perhaps this wasn’t the actual Ben and Melke. I assume I couldn’t ensure about something anymore. At the very least it was much less scary to consider they have been actual.
Throughout that point, he stated, he stored checking the Gap. He needed to determine it out. He thought it was controlling him. He didn’t keep in mind the issues he noticed when he visited. However he stated the previous Soviet was proper. It wasn’t empty. What he noticed in there—his mind wouldn’t let him keep in mind.
I simply needed to know why all this was occurring. Ben stepped in. He stated there’s just one means he can consider for this ‘website,’ if it may be referred to as that, to affect a thoughts that approach. It needs to be electromagnetic emissions. It should someway be capable of learn them off of us and produce them as properly. It’s a way that was experimented with as a type of phreaking. However by no means with organic methods.
As to why, he didn’t assume there was any objective. It was simply there and did what it did. It was the antinet. It introduces vacancy, division, and chaos as an alternative of connection. That’s only a byproduct of its existence. And its existence is a byproduct of the web. Like indignant Fb arguments are a byproduct of the web. It was by no means imagined to be one thing you would simply navigate to. It was theoretical. A factor a couple of pc scientists knew about. By some means somebody leaked it on the market. It was throughout. It was buried on the Heaven’s Gate web site. Hacking boards. Occult websites. The perimeter of the web is the place it moved.
That was lots to absorb. And I’m unsure how a lot of it I actually consider. On prime of that, apparently a number of hours had handed because the artificial me click on to the Gap.
I all of the sudden remembered what the 911 operator stated to me.
“Who’s the Captain?” I requested.
Milky was shaving once I requested him. His hand stopped shifting. I noticed within the mirror tears forming in his eyes. He was visibly shaking.
“Captain Meat. From the Gap. It appears kinda like a canine.”
Then he went again to shaving like nothing occurred.
Later I thanked Ben and Milky for saving me. For risking a lot, actually. Particularly Ben. And for making an attempt to warn me with the hyperlink to the webcam. However each of them denied ever sending that textual content. They requested to see it. They couldn’t work out the place it got here from. They checked the hyperlink to the webcam, too. It nonetheless labored. There was the entrance of my residence. My automotive, with the trunk nonetheless open. We watched it for a number of body updates earlier than Ben observed. Somebody was within the trunk. It was darkish and grainy. However that was undoubtedly somebody in there. And I shuddered once we all agreed that whoever that individual was, they have been wanting proper on the digital camera. Or us. We turned it off.
I awakened in the midst of the night time a number of nights later. We’d determined we didn’t need to hold paying for the motel, so we have been crashing with my Mother by then. She was comfortable for the corporate. And she or he was clearly fearful about me. She stated I needed to get a grip and never let my life slip away.
“Simply remedy this factor,” she stated.
It was bizarre. It wasn’t the kind of factor my Mother would say.
Anyway, I awoke. As a result of I used to be listening to whispering sounds. You’d assume louder sounds would wake you. However no. The whispers are the worst. I listened rigorously. I attempted to not transfer. I needed to listen to the place they have been coming from. It was a two-way dialog. I couldn’t make out any of the content material, although. Only a phrase right here and there.
I received up slowly and appeared towards the nook of the room. That’s the place I assumed the sounds have been. It took some time for my eyes to regulate. Once they did, I noticed Milky kneeling in entrance of one of many electrical sockets. He’d whisper one thing into it, then flip his head and wait. And whispers got here again. He noticed me wanting and stated, “Some trick, huh?”
I assume it was ventriloquism. However why do this alone in the midst of the night time? ‘trigger he was loopy. I received away from bed and went out to the kitchen for water. I might see somebody standing out on the entrance porch by means of the kitchen window. Figuring Ben couldn’t sleep both, I went out to ask him if Milky was actually okay. As a result of he didn’t appear to be. I flicked on the outside mild and stepped out. Nevertheless it wasn’t Ben on the market. It was Milky once more. He tried to inform me one thing about constellations, however I walked again in. One thing wasn’t making sense. There was no means he might’ve gotten out that quick. Some trick, huh?
I went into the lounge. The TV was on. It was the episode of Seinfeld the place George finds a doll that appears like his mom. That made me uncomfortable, so I modified to a different channel. This system information stated The Ninth Gate can be displaying. I all the time appreciated that one. However as an alternative of The Ninth Gate, it was The Ten Commandments. Very totally different films. Just one quantity off, although.
Seeing Hesston’s Moses posturing with the Egyptians struck me. I by no means did get to talk to HolyMoses. I let myself be distracted, chased off, or each. And every little thing occurring simply appeared to be getting increasingly more full of coincidences and connections that weren’t including up. Or added up too nicely. Which is identical factor, in case you ask me.
I began up Mother’s pc. It nonetheless ran Home windows XP. It was Dad’s pc and she or he didn’t like change. I needed to obtain mIRC. As quickly as I did, I related to EFnet. This time I used to be going to speak to him. He wasn’t onerous to seek out. Only a WhoIs and there he was, in @H1N1. He was the one one in there, apart from me. Not plenty of hen flu followers, I assume.
Earlier than I might ship him a message, an e-mail notification appeared on display. I assume Mother had it on auto-start. The notification caught my eye, as a result of it stated it was from Det. Thereault, topic “Info Requested.” I shouldn’t have, however because it was from the detective, I felt it needed to concern my state of affairs. I clicked on it and skim,
“As we mentioned, right here is the documentation on the dental data with the physician’s signature.”
The hooked up doc was concerning the skeletal stays discovered within the Egypt. I felt a sudden wave of horror, as a result of I assumed I knew what was coming. Dad’s bones someway received in there. However I used to be fallacious. They matched the skeleton as much as my dental data. Mine!
“I don’t know who that man is,” he went on, “however he isn’t your son.”
That was simply absurd. I knew my very own mom, for Pete’s sake! I considered deleting the e-mail, however that wouldn’t do any good. Then I began piecing issues collectively. Questioning if perhaps I actually was lifeless. Or perhaps I used to be an imposter, and that’s why I had reminiscence lapses.
Then I remembered I used to be nearly to message HolyMoses. Why did one thing all the time occur once I was about to message him? It needed to be a trick. I went again to IRC and despatched HolyMoses a message.
No response. I acquired a sudden message from u47284u, “Have you learnt the place your mom is?”
I ignored him. I despatched one other message to HolyMoses.
“Have you learnt what’s happening?”
u47284u messaged me once more, “Are you positive she’s okay?”
I took an opportunity on what I remembered from Angelica’s story. I despatched HolyMoses a brief message.
The letter “M.”
This instantly triggered a file transmission, which I accepted. It was a video file. It downloaded in about 5 minutes. If HolyMoses was as previous as they claimed, this video would’ve taken a day or two again then. The video was referred to as, “Freedom.mov”
Milky got here in from outdoors, stood a couple of ft away from me, and stared at me. That was unnerving sufficient. Then the pantry door began to open. Ben stepped out. He needed to have been sitting cramped in there all that point. He additionally stood nonetheless and simply stared at me. My Mother got here in from outside—why was she outside and the place? She joined Milky and Ben.
“What’s happening?” I requested them.
They didn’t converse. I felt the strain within the air and the reassurance that one thing would occur. The suspense and stillness was getting worse than something they might do to me. My coronary heart was beating so quick.
And I had been listening to a dripping sound for a minute or two with out paying consideration. An excessive amount of was happening. Now I appeared to the place the sound was coming from. I noticed fats beetles crawling out from Milky’s sleeves, over his palms, and dropping to the ground. What was happening?
I feel I used to be so afraid I couldn’t really feel it anymore. Slowly, I grabbed a unfastened USB dongle, hooked up it to my telephone, and to the pc. I’m stunned that previous pc might learn the telephone, however it did. Whereas they stared at me, I transferred the video file to my telephone. I unplugged the dongle, took my telephone, and ran to the toilet, the place I locked myself in.
I heard ft shuffle as much as the door and cease there. I turned on the bathe to drown out sound after which began watching the video. The webcam getting used was severely broken, by the seems of it. However I might make out a really sickly wanting older man. The audio was distorted. And I had the bathe operating. So I needed to begin it over and up the quantity. The person stated he’d been making an attempt to warn me. The dilaton distortion from the Gap permits him to ship messages throughout temporary home windows. If I’m listening to this, he stated, I’m within the Gap and have been for some time. Different issues are additionally in right here. Whereas he spoke, I stored listening to screams within the background of the recording, some sounded nearer than others. He stated this stuff don’t need me going anyplace. I have to get out earlier than it’s too late. He is aware of, he stated, as a result of he’s me. The very last thing he stated earlier than the video ended abruptly was “the birds and the bees.”
I couldn’t depart by means of the door, so I pulled up the blind to go away by way of the toilet window. I virtually shrieked once I noticed my mom’s face pressed up towards the window. I used to be trapped. I considered pushing via anyway. However I couldn’t hit my mom. I might hit Ben or Milky if I needed to, however not my mom. So I took the door. No one was there. That simply made me fear about the place they actually have been.
I stepped outdoors and nonetheless, no one there. I hurried to my automotive earlier than Mother might come round from the again. Then I heard speedy footsteps. Ben was operating proper towards me from approach down the road.
“Cease hurting me!” he shouted.
However he didn’t look in ache. He appeared in a rage. I acquired in my automotive and began backing up. When he received to me, he was pounding on the home windows, nonetheless screaming.
I drove straight again to my residence, leaving all of them behind. The one rationalization might be that I’m “within the Gap,” no matter meaning. As a result of there was no different means Ben and my Mother would act like that. However when did that occur? And what does that even imply, anyway?
Earlier than I even stepped inside my house, I knew one thing was incorrect. Waves of one thing—simply dangerous, pure dangerous—have been hitting me. I opened my entrance door. The whole lot appeared regular. I began turning on all of the lights. And I grabbed a knife from the kitchen drawer. Then I noticed them. Two males in bee costumes sitting on my treadmill. Wanting on the flooring. Not shifting. Virtually like they have been stuffed. Or forgot the place they have been.
“What do you individuals need from me?” I stated.
I stored a decent grip on the knife.
They stood up. Then they each seemed down the corridor towards my workplace. I adopted their gaze, however noticed nothing down there. After a couple of seconds of questioning what they noticed, I heard the track begin. “Early within the Morning.” Whereas I used to be wanting down the corridor, they have been already heading out the door.
I made a decision to comply with them. As a result of no matter began that music gave me a worse feeling than them. As I stepped out the door, I’m positive I heard a canine growling behind me.
I adopted them throughout the street and into the woods. I turned my telephone flashlight on to have the ability to comply with them. It’s like they might see in the dead of night, the best way they navigated the woods. The deeper we went, the extra uneasy I turned. They only appeared to maintain going and going.
However the deeper we went, the extra I began to listen to birds. I by no means even considered it earlier than, however I hadn’t heard any birds for a very long time. Weeks at the least. Or locusts or any regular springtime sounds. The extra I adopted the bees, the extra I heard the birds, till they received loud sufficient I figured we have to be underneath an enormous assortment of nests. I stored following them till it received too loud to bear after which it seemed like equipment, like elevators. There was a machine. Hidden out in the midst of nowhere. I adopted them inside after which…
After which I used to be again in my workplace, sitting at my desk, slumped over my keyboard. The nook of my mouth was moist. I need to’ve blacked out. I picked myself up. It felt like I used to be simply waking up from a deep sleep. The room was brilliant with daylight. I might hear birds chirping up a frenzy outdoors. My screensaver was on. Once I shifted the mouse, simply to see what time it was, there was an e mail from the globetrotter.internet Angelica.
It learn, “Fairly intense, huh? You’ll be able to spend the remainder of your life in there.”
I sat disoriented for some time, earlier than realizing I needed to urinate, eat and drink. Once I had achieved these issues, I seemed round my house for clues. The knife I’d taken was again the place it belonged. My previous pc was put up in its field. I referred to as my Mother to ask if she was OK. She didn’t keep in mind any of the occasions from the earlier night time.
That’s once I remembered the video on my telephone. From HolyMoses. I checked and it was nonetheless there. I knew I wasn’t dreaming. I performed it again. Right here can be my proof. The video was 2 minutes of distorted audio and video. In all of the distortions, no recognizable sounds or photographs.
That was a number of weeks in the past. It’s taken me a while to get calibrated to actuality. Nothing unusual has occurred since. I can’t clarify what occurred. Perhaps I had a psychotic break. I used to be underneath lots of stress at work. Perhaps somebody was gaslighting the hell out of me. Perhaps there actually is a secret web site that makes use of electromagnetic waves to mess together with your thoughts.
I’m simply glad it’s over. I’m glad to be going again to work like a daily individual. Making banana smoothies. Not enthusiastic about sinister web cafes. I actually do keep in mind the Egypt and the Gap and—it’s like actuality all twisted. I’ll simply finish by saying I don’t assume I’ll be feeling any nostalgia for the previous days of web for a superb, lengthy whereas. The one drawback I’m having is, each time I’m making an attempt to sleep, I maintain remembering the entire nightmare and asking myself, “Am I nonetheless inside?” However, then, what distinction wouldn’t it make?
Credit score: Jared Roberts (Fb • Twitter • Reddit)
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Coconut Macaroons are a delicious combination of dried coconut,
white sugar, and vanilla extract. Warm from the oven the contrast of a crispy exterior
to a moist, soft and chewy interior is amazing. Enjoy them plain, dip the
bottoms in melted chocolate, or just place a small chocolate chunk into the
center of each cookie. This is such a
quick and easy cookie to make that is sure to delight.
This great recipe is adapted from Lynne Rossetto
Kasper and Sally Swift's
excellent book called The Splendid Table's How to Eat Supper.
It is quite a
bit different from the other
Coconut Macaroon recipe I have on the site. First, instead of using just egg whites, this macaroon uses the whole egg.
And no flour is added, they are made simply by mixing together eggs,
sugar, vanilla extract, and dried coconut. You can use either sweetened or
unsweetened dried coconut, shredded or flaked. Sweetened dried coconut is coconut that has been dried and
then mixed with powdered sugar. If you like your Coconut Macaroons quite
sweet and chewy, then use this type of coconut. But if you prefer, you can
unsweetened dried coconut as this type of coconut is
just coconut that has been dried and has no sugar added. But I find that
the amount of sugar you need has to be increased from 1/2 cup (100 grams)
to about 1 cup (200 grams).
The other two things that make this recipe so different is that the eggs
do not have to be warmed and there is no chilling of the batter. Once the
cookies are formed into
small mounds, that look like haystacks, they are baked until nicely browned. Now,
if you are like me, and think there is nothing better than coconut and
chocolate, you won't be able to resist placing a small chocolate chunk
(semi sweet or bittersweet) into the center of each macaroon before baking.
Or maybe you would prefer dipping the bottoms of the baked and cooled
cookies in melted chocolate. The day these cookies are made the outside
of the cookies will be quite crisp while the inside is soft and chewy.
However, after storing, the outside of the cookies will soften as will
their flavor. Personally, I like them both ways.
Coconut Macaroons: Preheat oven
to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) and line two baking sheets with parchment
In a large bowl whisk the
eggs until well beaten. Whisk in the sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Finally,
stir in the dried coconut, making sure that all the coconut is thoroughly moistened.
Place small mounds (about 1
tablespoon) (I use a small ice cream scoop) of the batter on the parchment-lined
baking sheet, spacing several inches apart. If desired, place a small
chunk of chocolate in the center of each cookie. Bake for about 14
minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool. Then dip or spread the
bottoms of each macaroon with the melted chocolate. Place the macaroons,
chocolate side down, on a parchment lined baking sheet. Refrigerate the cookies
for about 15-30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens. Can be covered and
stored for several days at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Chocolate Coating: Place the chopped
chocolate and shortening in a microwaveable bowl. Melt in the microwave (or over a
saucepan of simmering water). Let cool to room temperature before using.
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and is not related to the "Joy the Baker" books and website.
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Hokkaido, Sevensea, Tokai, and More: 7 Brands of Crabsticks from the SupermarketMarch 11, 2019
Call them an embodiment of deception if you will, but crabsticks have a special place in our hearts. Also known as kani kama or imitation crab meat, this delicacy is made not with crab, but with white fish (usually pollock) that’s ground into surimi, shaped into sticks, colored, and flavored to resemble the real thing. Its cheaper pricetag, longer shelf life, and admittedly tasty flavor give crabsticks an appeal all of their own, proving indispensible for making Japanese-American dishes such as California Maki, or Filipino spin-offs like (the so-called) “Japanese” Siomai. Not all crabsticks are equal however; how do the different brands in the supermarket compare?
Hokkaido’s crabsticks are of a medium length (roughly 2 ½”) and a pale orange hue. It separates easily into distinct strands that are just thick enough to hold a bite, making it great for use in a quintessential Japanese-American kani salad. Coming on the highly juicy (if not wet) side, it delivers a flavor that’s very sweet, but also full of savory umami. While it tastes less specifically of crab and more generally of seafood, turned up 10 notches thanks to the sugar and the MSG, it’s delicious for what it is; we can’t help but snack on it plain.
Asian Star Ichiban
Ichiban’s crabsticks are longer (around 2 ¾”) and tend to be frayed at the edges. Though firmer and a little more stuck together, the strands are individually thinner and easy to separate; there’s just enough moisture that it delivers a mild, natural-feeling juiciness without spurting out liquid. The flavor is mostly of that general sweet seafood-y sort, but with what seems to be an onion-y sweetness to complement the seafood taste, and an odd but not out-of-place note we can best compare to jackfruit flavoring.
Kibun Sea Stix
Also on the tall and fat side, Kibun’s crabsticks are visibly much redder on the exterior and whiter within. It comes denser and stiffer, and thus harder to separate into strands. It’s also less juicy than the others; you still get the sweet-umami crabstick taste (with a slightly saltier finish), but the relative doughiness gets in the way of the flavor and makes for an overall weaker impact.
Sevensea is shorter (around 2 ⅓”) and stouter in form compared to the other brands. It separates very easily into strands, though they tend to come off in layers (which themselves separate into individual strands) that are soft and silky on the tongue. It’s also on the highly juicy and wet side, so much that it spurts juice out when you squeeze the crabstick with your fingers. Though it tastes mostly similar to all other brands, it’s a touch less salty yet has a seemingly longer, more complex umami finish.
Smartcrab is also of the bright-red exterior sort like Kibun, but a tad shorter, with more finely drawn vertical lines across its surface. It’s also on the denser, doughier side that’s not very juicy (as with Kibun), but is even dryer, with a rough feel on the tongue and with the tendency to break apart when you try to separate it into strands. There’s a floury taste to it as well, but it nonetheless carries the sweet, seafood-y (notably more shrimpy) flavor profile of crabsticks.
Takeda gives you medium-length crabsticks with a pale orange hue. It has a tight, rather dense feel to it as well which isn’t the easiest to separate into strands, but it delivers on the moist and juicy quality we love from the other brands. It’s relatively salty past delivering the general sweet seafood-y umami profile, and ends with a peculiar richness we can best compare to egg yolks in flavor.
From the size and the (general) color, Tokai appears to be very similar to Sevensea (if not one and the same thing, as we’d suspected initially). The texture is almost the same, with very easily separable strands that are soft and supple to chew on, and a wonderfully moist and juicy makeup. We’re not even sure if we’re just imagining things, but we only really noticed very slight differences in flavor, Tokai being a touch less salty with a richer, eggyolk-y finish like Takeda’s.
The Verdict: Sevensea and Tokai, sorta
Given the similarities between Sevensea and Tokai, we think it futile to decide between the two. Either way, their easily-separable strands, soft and silky consistency, juicy makeup and addictive umami burst make them a hit in our book—whether for eating straight up or throwing into different recipes. Coming rather close to both brands is Hokkaido; though a tad rougher on the tongue, it’s nonetheless easy to separate and carries the best balance between the decidedly exaggerated sweet, savory, and umami profiles. |
Baking in the winter always presents problems here at my house: it’s cold! Probably not quite the cold you get in other parts of the world, but it sure is cold to me, and my starter. Kitchen temperatures are consistently hovering between 68º and 70ºF which inhibits yeast and bacteria activity. I’ll typically offset this by changing the percentage of mature starter carryover or by heating the water used in my feedings, but you want to try to keep your starter around 75º to 80ºF — this is not easy to do when winter is bombarding your area. You have to make do with the warmest spot you can find in your kitchen, for me this is next to my whiskey collection. Almost poetic.
A short aside… In the winter with all the holiday events and cold weather, I find myself baking pies and cakes more and more. I recently baked an excellent lattice pie, an apple/pistachio tart and the famous Cook’s Illustrated pecan pie, each received with equal high praise. Making a pie crust by hand becomes more accessible the more you do it (like most things), but even when it doesn’t turn out great, it’s always delicious. Butter makes life worth living, as they say. Anyway, here’s a couple of shots of two of these beauties, lots of fun to take a break from bread baking and bake something sweet.
Ok back on task here… During this challenging baking season, I’ve been experimenting with a much more stiff starter than my typical “liquid” one I’ve described thus far (outlined by Chad Robertson at Tartine Bakery). It seems many bakers argue over the differences between stiff and liquid starters, their benefits, differences, and similarities. I’ll first give a few high-level characteristics of each and then go into some things I’ve noticed after a month or more from a more personal perspective.
First, a very brief overview of some chemistry/biology behind our starters. A mature and healthy starter, and the beneficial bacteria contained within, will break down the complex carbohydrates in flour into sugars which the natural yeast in our starters consume to create carbon dioxide and will produce two types of acids as metabolic byproducts: lactic (adds a mild yogurt-like taste) and acetic (adds a more sour, vinegar taste). This symbiotic relationship between bacteria and yeast is what gives our dought leavening power in the form of CO2, and complex and layered flavors in the form of a mixture of lactic and acetic acids. You can control the production of each by the method in which you maintain your starter (frequency of feedings, water temperature, ambient temperature, etc.). Liquid starters maintained at a warmer temperature will produce more lactic acid, whereas stiff starters maintained at slightly cooler temperatures will produce more acetic acid.
However, does this mean you’ll end up with a super sour loaf when using a stiff starter? No, not at all. Whether you’re using a stiff or liquid starter the final taste in your bread is up to you and how you decide to manage fermentation. It’s just as possible make a sour tasting loaf using a liquid levain (by increasing fermentation time or using a higher percentage of levain) as it is to produce a very mellow, sweet tasting loaf using a stiff starter (which is what I prefer and always strive for).
Now let’s take a high-level look at the differences (and similarities) between a liquid and stiff starter.
- hydration at, or higher than, 65% water-to-flour
- typically “sweet” or “milky” smelling if refreshed frequently as I do
- incorporating in dough mix is very easy due to its liquid nature
- refreshing is similar to stirring a thick milkshake
My liquid starter, originally started by following the guidelines set out in Tartine Bread, is a “sweet” and “milky” starter that is very loose and amorphous. I’ve maintained this high hydration starter for numerous years, and it creates bread that is very creamy tasting with a subtle sour tang to it. Many references suggest that a liquid starter will produce a final loaf that has more of a sour tang to it, but of course that all depends on how you manage other aspects of your starter (timing, temperature, etc.). More on this below.
- hydration at, or less than, 65% water-to-flour
- incorporating into dough mix is a little more difficult due to the thick, tough nature
- refreshing is similar to kneading a dough
- produces a more subdued acidic taste in final loaves if maintained correctly
A stiff starter is a little more forgiving when it comes to refreshment (feeding) due to the delayed “falling” (when compared to a liquid starter which falls when food is exhausted) of the dome on top when rising. Think of it as a rising balloon in a jar that eventually runs out of helium and then suddenly the top caves in and the entire top begins to fall. There have been a few instances where I wasn’t able to attend to my starter until many hours after my regular refreshment time, and the starter was just fine — no deep vinegar smell and it was well before the total acidic breakdown of the flour.
Marble Brewery, one of the best places here in Albuquerque for locally brewed beer. I had just picked up a brand new growler of my favorite brew for the weekend. I didn’t use any beer in this bake, but that will come soon. 1
Experimenting with a stiff starter has been a very worthwhile endeavor for me, I’ve learned about the different feel, fermentation behavior and taste between using the two types of starters and levain types. Honestly, in the end, I think the choice between the two mostly comes down to your personal preference: do you like to stir your levain like a milkshake when refreshing or do you want to scoop it out and quickly knead & mix by hand? I find myself preferring the latter, surprisingly. It’s quick and easy for me to drop in some flour, water, and knead out the dough on my work surface, then drop the dry ball back into its rising jar. No messy soup to deal with. Additionally, when mixing up a high hydration recipe (like below) the stiff starter does seem to impart more strength to the final dough, giving the bread a bit more rise and making shaping a little easier. Maybe because in the end there is a little less hydration in the levain, and because of the increased acidity in the stiff starter which helps to strengthen and condition gluten.
After baking with my stiff starter for a while now, I can safely say the misconception that a stiff starter/levain produces a more sour bread is unfounded. I’ve now baked some of the most incredible tasting bread that only has a small hint of sour, probably even less than my liquid version. A stiff starter, if also fed with 100% whole wheat flour, will produce significant acidity (both lactic and acetic) but the actual transfer of these acids to your final dough is very minimal as the amount of levain used in a recipe is usually rather small
For more information, see my next post on how I maintain my sourdough starter for information on feeding (refreshment) times, flour types, and much more.
I’d love to hear from you out there, do you have any experience working with a stiff and liquid levain? Do you see any other benefits than what I’ve outlined here — what do you prefer?
This post wouldn’t be here if I didn’t go into baking a loa of bread, now would it? Let’s get baking sourdough bread with a stiff starter.
Prepare the stiff levain – 8:20 a.m.
Note that the quantities and temperatures in this entry have been adjusted to compensate for the cold environment in my house (around 70ºF).
|50g||Giusto’s whole wheat flour|
|50g||Central Milling Organic Artisan Bakers Craft (malted)|
|65g||H2O @ 85ºF|
I keep the levain in the oven with the light on until the interior temperature reaches 78º to 80ºF. Leave this to build acidity and strength for 4 or 5 hours. With a stiff levain you’ll know it’s ready when the domed area on top begins to cave in, but after 5 hours it should be good to go.
Autolyse & Mix – 11:30am
For this bake, I was only able to do a 1 hour autolyse, but this should be sufficient.
Gather the following:
|100g||Giusto’s whole wheat flour||10%|
|50g||Bob’s Red Mill Dark Rye Flour||5%|
|850g||Central Milling Organic Artisan Bakers Craft (malted)||85%|
|875g||H2O @ 97ºF||87.5%|
|20g||Fine sea salt||2%|
|200g||Ripe, stiff levain (amount increased 5% from last entry due to cold weather)||20%|
Perform the following for your autolyse:
- In a thick bowl add the flour
- Add 750g of your heated water (the rest is reserved until later when we add in the levain & salt after the autolyse)
- Mix these ingredients by hand until incorporated. Remember at this stage we are not looking for any gluten development, make sure all the dry bits of flour are incorporated
- Cover with wrap and keep near your levain for 1 hour (in my case in the oven to keep warm)
Slap & Fold Mix After Autolyse – 1:00 p.m.
After your one hour or so autolyse, take your dough in the bowl, break up the stiff levain on top, pour on about half the remaining water (warm up water if it has cooled) and slap & fold for about 5-8 minutes until the dough looks smooth and doesn’t stick to the counter.
Return dough to the bowl and let rest for just a minute, then pour on top the salt and remaining water and do another slap and fold session for about 5 minutes until the dough again looks smooth and has some strength to it. “Strength to it” is a loaded term and this is an intuitive judgement call. After a few tries if you remain observant, you’ll start to build up a feel for “strong enough” and know when to stop your slapping & folding.
At this point, the dough should look smoother, feel elastic and strong.
|Final dough temperature:||71ºF|
My final dough temperature was VERY cold at 71ºF (typical would be 77º or 78º). Even with the extremely warm water having the dough exposed to air during the two slap and fold sessions cooled things off considerably. I was a bit worried at this point but performing bulk fermentation in my oven with the light on (around 80ºF) let the dough proceed with fermentation, although a bit slower.
Bulk Fermentation – 1:30 p.m.
Transfer your dough to a clear container to be used during bulk fermentation and let rest for the first 30 minutes. After the first 30 minutes have passed, do your first set of stretch and folds.
- 1:05 p.m. – Turn Set 1
- 1:35 p.m. – Turn Set 2
- 2:05 p.m. – Turn Set 3
I stopped here at only three turns, but you will need to make the call based on how your dough looks and feels. If it’s holding shape in the container, turns become a little harder to perform because the dough bundles up and it pulls easily from the sides it’s most likely strong enough and you can let rest for the remainder of the bulk fermentation.
Pre-shape – 6:30 p.m.
Take the dough out of the container onto your work surface. Divide into two halves and lightly spin the dough in little circles across your work surface with your bench knife in one hand and your other empty hand—kind of like turning a car’s steering wheel. No need to overwork the dough here! You want to gently form them into two boules, just enough to hold their shape for a 20-minute rest.
Shape + Proof – In Fridge at 8:40 p.m.
Shape each resting dough to your liking and place them into their flour-dusted bannetons. Now place these into plastic bags and let rest on the counter for 2 hours at room temperature (around 70ºF here). After this two hour rest on the counter, you should have noticed your dough rise just a bit, place your bannetons with wrap into the fridge to proof overnight, we will bake these in the morning.
Score + Bake – around 6:00 p.m. (Next Evening)
I went for a long proof this time: about 22 hours! My theory on my fridge being too cold at 39ºF is spot-on, and you can see in the results here as there was a much more open crumb than usual due in part to the long proof. Next bake I’m going to leave the dough out even longer, perhaps 3 hours, before placing into the fridge.
Place your baking stone and Dutch oven in your oven and turn it to 500ºF for a 1-hour pre-heat. After one hour, take one of your bannetons out of the fridge and cut a piece of parchment paper to place on top. Take your peel and then put it on top of those two and quickly invert it, so the dough is now resting on the parchment paper which is resting on the peel. Score the top of the dough with your desired pattern. Take out the shallow side of your Dutch oven and drag in your dough. Quickly place the pan back in the oven, cover with the deep side, and bake for 20 minutes at 500ºF. After 20 minutes, turn down the oven to 450ºF and cook covered for an additional 10 minutes. Once this 10 minute period is over, open the oven and take off the deep lid of the Dutch oven (set it next to the other half inside the oven), then cook for an additional 30 minutes or so, until the bread is to your desired doneness.
What a beautiful bake, guys, I was happy when I sliced into these. I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful open crumb inside, and I’m confident I can open things up a bit more next time. I’m slowly inching closer to my ideal loaf each experiment and each trial. Sure, there are bakes that fall short2, but the general progression for my bakes has been in the right direction. I’m still looking for that loaf that looks like a spider web inside with large holes and dynamic movement, almost like an explosion went off surrounded by sticky, gooey, custard.
My next attempt will be using the same procedure almost precisely as outlined above but I’ll take half and attempt a longer proof on the counter before retarding. It’s hard to say just how long will open things up more, and you don’t want to over proof, but it is an experiment after all. I’m sure it will still make excellent toast.
Thin, brittle, snaps under the lightest of pressure. Beautiful coloring throughout and excellent oven spring on these. I was a little afraid spring would suffer due to the high hydration, but the strengthening of the dough through using a stiff starter/levain and the slap and folds helped to keep things in check. Sublime coloring on the outside ranging from light brown to dark brown and signs of caramelization on the exterior. Cracks, small bubbles, tears, and rips.
Super open, but still a little room for improvement (mostly in the bottom middle area). Tender and moist with a slightly nutty flavor likely from the whole wheat and tiny bit of rye. This bread is my current favorite sandwich bread. You can see in the image below that ghosting or shiny look to some areas where it looks like a thin sheet is being stretched wide — this is the look I want throughout.
Startling taste! My ritualistic late afternoon sandwich 3 With freshly baked bread shined, I couldn’t even take a minute to snap a picture to post here — it was gone. The stiff starter and managed proof did not impart an overly sour flavor to this bread; it was a mild taste that slightly lingered after finishing a bite. I like it this way, as you may know by now.
Happy New Year everyone and I hope you join me through next year where I hope to bake and write even more — happy baking! |
This is one of the most asked questions. Clay is defined as A soft rock based compound often used for sculpture and tools. Clay is dirt, mud and the resulting sculpture or tools are called ceramics. Porcelain on the other hand is the Jaguar, the luxury vehicle brand mud. Hundreds of years ago the Chinese discovered Porcelain clay deep inside caves. The artwork and dishes they formed from the beautiful pure white clay was sought after almost as much as gold and more than spices. European royalty bought the dishes to show off their own wealth. Seven hundred years after the porcelain was discovered in a cave, Europeans discovered their own Porcelain clay recipe by an alchemist.
I don’t get my porcelain clay from a cave. Mine comes to me in a plastic bag to keep it moist and a box strong enough to hold 50 pounds at a time. I don’t suffer for my art like the Chinese did a long time ago. I am happy about that. Leaves me more time to decorate the pots I thrown on the potter’s wheel. |
Just when I think I have reached the pinnacle of Tyler's brilliant recipes, I find another gem out there that impresses me all over again. I was lucky enough to stumble across some small bags of fresh local figs at the farmer's market on Saturday, (it pays to get there very early as "finds" like figs sell out fast). We don't get to see local figs here often, (unless you are lucky enough to know someone with a fig tree in their yard), and they are so much fresher and firmer than the ones brought in from the mainland that you can occasionally find in the better grocery stores here. Enjoying some fresh, I wanted to do something wonderful with the rest of them so I looked to Tyler. He has several recipes that use fresh figs, but the one for Chicken Paillard with Fresh Fig Salad and Blue Cheese in Tyler's Ultimate with its variety of interesting ingredients, looked like it would be fun to try.
You can find this recipe in Tyler's Ultimate on pages 138-139
Tyler says: "Pounding chicken breasts into paillards, which means thin slices, is a great way to use chicken breasts in the summertime for salad. It cooks fast and evenly so the meat stays nice and moist. The salty-sweet combination of figs, pancetta, and blue cheese is dynamite. If you can't get your hands on fresh figs, peaches work just as well."
Chicken Paillard with Fresh Fig Salad and Blue Cheese
Tyler's Ultimate, Tyler Florence
3 Tbsp honey
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 shallot, chopped
1 Tbsp sherry vinegar
juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tsp chopped fresh tarragon
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 lb pancetta
extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 lb blue cheese, broken into hunks
1 bunch of arugula, trimmed
1 small basket seasonal figs, halved
tarragon leaves, for garnish
First whisk together all of the ingredients for the vinaigrette in a small bowl and set it aside.
Sandwich the chicken breasts between 2 layers of plastic wrap and pound them very thin with the side of a meat cleaver or a rolling pin. Remove the chicken breasts from the plastic and season well on both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat a large saute pan over medium heat. Unroll the pancetta so it looks like big strips of bacon. Add it to the pan and fry it like a tangle of bacon until the fat is rendered, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Drizzle a 2-count of olive oil into the pan with the pancetta drippings. Add the chicken and pan fry 3 to 4 minutes on each side to brown the breasts and cook them through. Use a spatula to remove the chicken to the paper towels with the pancetta. Add the vinaigrette to the saute pan and heat for a few minutes, stirring, to deglaze the bits of pancetta and chicken from the bottom of the pan; take the pan off the heat.
To serve, arrange the chicken on a platter. Scatter the blue cheese, arugula, figs, and pancetta over. Drizzle the dressing over everything and garnish with the tarragon leaves.
Notes/Results: WOW!!! This is so good and it is such a gorgeous dish too! I was thinking it might possibly be too many things on the plate and that the flavors might compete with each other, but I should not have doubted Tyler. Everything works so well together; the juiciness of the figs, the sweetness of the honey, the assertive, sharpness of the blue cheese, the peppery arugula, the crisp, salty pancetta, and the lightly anise flavor in the tarragon; they all compliment each other and add a new dimension of flavor to the chicken. In fact, although it was moist, juicy, and good, the one ingredient I wouldn't miss if it were taken out would be the chicken--the salad is good enough to stand on it's own. I made the recipe as written, the only difference was that the pancetta my neighborhood grocery store had was in packages and very thinly sliced. I didn't want to make a trip to Whole Foods, but would have enjoyed a thicker cut in the pancetta, for a bit more substance in the texture. The salad goes together quickly and easily, (you can put it together in well under 30 minutes), making it a perfect hot weather dinner. The dish is versatile enough to be a simple casual supper or impress your party guests. This is a winner recipe. If you get some fresh figs, (or as Tyler says peaches will work too), I urge you to try it. In fact, if I can get more figs at the market this week, I'll be making it again. It will go down as one of my very favorite Tyler recipes so far. Delicious!
Head over to the Tyler Florence Fridays blog (here) to see what our other TFF members selected to make this week and what they thought about their recipe choices. |
These insanely moist Iced Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are bursting with lemon flavor! They are topped with a lemon cream cheese icing that will make mornings perfect.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a muffin pan, and set aside
In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl attached to a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar for two minutes, until creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla, zest, lemon juice, and sour cream. Mix on medium for two minutes or until everything is incorporated.
Remove the bowl from the mixer, and add the dry ingredients in, and stir to combine. Stir in the poppy seeds, and pour batter into the muffin tin about 2/3 full. Bake for 7 minutes, and then turn the oven down to 350, bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes, and remove them from the pan to a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely before icing.
To make the icing, beat together the cream cheese and butter until nice and creamy. Beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Beat in the lemon juice. Dip the tops into the icing. Store in an air tight container. Best when eaten within 3 days. |
Chefs today cook pastas, crepes, grills, dim sums, a la minute, at live stations, just the way gourmets like it and offer them an eclectic food experience.
Picture this, a chef removing the crispy skin of a well-roasted, moist Peking Duck and artfully carving the lean meat, at a live counter at the Sunday brunch in a hotel, as guests watch him mesmerised.
For Your Eyes Only
The visual drama and theatrics by chefs, whether it is hand-pulled noodles, or rolling a sushi, or swirling the pizza dough in the air, adds to the dining experience for guests, igniting their appetites. And that is the power of live cooking today, which succeeds in luring customers.
The diverse range of food on offer at live cooking stations leaves one spoilt for choice. Pizza, crepes, dim sums, grills and chocolate fountains, are some of the live stations that wow gourmets today, at elaborate buffets and Sunday brunches.
Chef Vishal Atreya, Executive Chef, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, explains, “Live cooking enhances the freshness quotient of the dish being served. It also increases engagement and provides a fun and interactive experience, rather than just plain dining, as guests can see what is being prepared for them.”
Thanks to the surge of food shows on television, food lovers today want their culinary experience to go beyond just the food on their plates. They want a more wholesome and sensory experience, exploring cuisines, where the ingredients come from, how these are mixed, which techniques are used and how it is presented.
To witness fresh ingredients of one’s choice being transformed by the chef into a dish, spells magic. Karan Thakur, Executive Sous Chef, The Westin Gurgaon, feels, live cooking has been transformed into a stage act, where people love observing chefs cook and then serve delicately.
As You Like It
Live counters are about flamboyance and a treat for one’s eyes with the vibrant colours and fresh flavours. But what makes them hugely popular amongst guests is the fact that diners are allowed choices. Whether it is a healthy option of a pasta with no cheese, or a well-done meat grill, or a steamed edamame and water chestnut dim sum, a diner gets a dish just as he likes it.
Customisation is key in a live station and chefs willingly adjust spices, flavours and presentation, according to individual taste. Chef Karan reiterates that customisation from the doneness of meat to the addition of any special ingredient, can be incorporated at live counters and that is what guests prefer.
Additionally, guests chat freely with chefs, seeking his recommendations and even getting valuable cooking tips, as he prepares their favourite dish. The ease with which the chef connects with the guest, offers options, is what makes the experience memorable. Not only does the food look much more appealing at live stations, but the chefs also gently cajole the diner and one ends up trying a lot more than one would have normally done.
Centre Stage drama
Gone are the days when a chef was someone you never saw, as he was busy in the kitchen cooking. He is now the cynosure of all eyes where he holds fort at the live cooking counter. For the chef too, it’s a thrill and equally a challenge as he is ‘on-show’ where every move is watched by his audience.
Today, chefs get an opportunity to display their culinary versatility. It’s not only about tossing veggies in a wok or kebabs being flambéed. Desserts too offer opportunity for performance, whether with a chocolate fountain or an ice cream Teppanyaki.
Undoubtedly, chefs working at live stations also need to be great communicators, as involving guests and getting them hooked to various live counters is their primary objective.
An Array of Options
Live stations can be varied and range from any cuisine, Indian or global. Basically, anything that can be prepared live, looks attractive and dramatic, is converted into a live station. Pasta counters with stuffed raviolis and gnocchi being mixed in sauces, searing a steak on high meat to seal the juices, blow torching desserts like a fig brulee or a Baked Alaska, are some live cooking counters which chefs prefer, as these make for a stimulating experience.
Chef Karan Thakur explains, “Cooking is versatile and pretty much anything can be done live. The factors which are taken into consideration before deciding, are, in fact, not just the food, but the place and surroundings.
Stations involving large fires would be placed in an open space and comparatively delicate food items such as tapas or raw seafood bars would have to be placed in temperature regulated zones.”
Chef Atreya opines that anything that does not take too long to cook and is simple, like sushi, waffles and crepes, for example, should be served at a live station.
Live stations add to the aura of the meal as chefs whip up culinary delicacies and regale guests, deftly balancing the sizzle and the strong aromas of food.
Written by Mini Ribeiro |
Ricotta & Apricot Jam Crostata, a lavish yet simple cake, with all the flavors of the fading summer. A tender, lemon flavored crust, a rich and moist ricotta layer with a subtly smooth sweet apricot jam filling.
Song of the day: Bonfire Heart – James Blunt.
Today is my mother’s birthday and also the last day of our Italian summer vacation. Tomorrow we’ll be on a plane, homebound to Canada. Time flew, and what a time! One month of gorgeous sightseeing, family and friends gatherings, luscious eating, sun-filled days, leaving our hearts full of memories, experiences, and inspirations.
We feel happy, tired and relaxed at the same time. So many the places we saw, the new dishes we tried, the people we kissed and hugged, the laughs we shared, the things we bought to bring back home. We had planned the vacation so we could be in Italy for my friends Laura and Luca’s wedding, at the beginning of our holiday, for my brother’s birthday, and for my mother’s birthday, right at the end. For tonight we booked a nice place overlooking a quiet lake to celebrate her. There won’t be any cake, we’ll have dessert there. So I am dedicating this Ricotta & Apricot Jam Crostata to her. I baked it last week and we enjoyed it with her and my family. Needless to say, she loved it, as much as each of us. Ricotta is possibly my mother’s favorite food, you often find cow or sheep ricotta on their table in Rome. And jam, well, jam, is my father’s passion, making it and eating it on a fetta biscottata every breakfast. This apricot jam is his homemade. Every summer he makes all kinds of jam, little jars of different colors filling our cupboards.
The inspiration for this amazing Ricotta & Apricot Jam Crostata came from Laura’s wedding; among all the many desserts that crowded the dessert table, there it was, a ricotta and jam crostata. I always reach for this kind of cakes: crostate, pies, tarts they have my absolute preference. The flavor exploded in my mouth with such a power that my first thought was: I need to make this again, soon! It was soft, not too sweet, with a gorgeous filling. The ricotta and the jam together in a mouthful was incredible.
The one I had at the wedding was a bit different in texture and density, however, with that being said, both equally delicious.
The pastry is easy to make with basic ingredients you can have in your fridge and pantry: flour, eggs, vegetable oil (I used peanut oil), sugar, lemon juice and zest, baking powder, vanilla. It is so soft and delicate to work with, you need a little bit of care when doing the lattice top, but even if it should break like it did for me and you have to join pieces together, it’s okay. This is an unsophisticated cake, it is not the look that matters, the flavor and texture win you over.
I’m not saying that this Ricotta & Apricot Jam Crostata is ugly, actually, I find it very pretty. It is like an old antique, a bit weathered yet has this inner beauty. You might have noticed that this type of rustic baking is my trademark. This is what I grew up with and if you were to go to these small towns in the country you would find this rustic beauty of pastries.
As a matter of fact, I baked this Ricotta & Apricot Jam Crostata in our country kitchen located in Agosta, my parents’ birthplace east of Rome, full of antique pieces and collectibles. The cast aluminum pan you see in the pictures belonged to my aunt Teresa’s mom, and I have to say it cooked the cake quickly and beautifully. So, the baking time may vary according to the size and the type of pan you’re using. Mine baked in 30 minutes. If you’re using a modern spring form cake pan it will be easier to take out, I had to do it the old fashion way by flipping it upside down putting a plate on top and then placing a plate at the bottom of the cake and turning it right side up.
The first thing you notice before you even cut into it is the aroma: the lemon with its juice and zest lends an unmistakable fragrance, uplifting and joyful. Then you cut into the crust and you realize how delicate and elegant the pastry is. The jam beautifully lays on the creamy bed of ricotta.
At first bite, the wholeness of this dessert falls into your mouth like a feather. The dance of texture begins with the crumbliness of the pastry melting, giving way for the ricotta and jam to become one. The ricotta is the perfect canvas to allow the flavor of the jam to shine through.
Bite after bite you’re left with this incredible flavor in your mouth and your tongue dancing to capture any last bit of flavor.
Song of the day: Bonfire Heart – James Blunt.Print
For the crust:
- 1 egg, organic free range
- 100 ml vegetable oil (I used peanut oil)
- 150 g sugar (I used granulated sugar)
- 1 small organic lemon, juice and zest
- 300 g flour 00 (or organic unbleached all purpose)
- 8 g baking powder (1/2 packet)
- 1 tsp vanilla
For the filling:
- 250 g ricotta
- 1 egg yolk
- 30 g powder (icing) sugar
- 300 g jam, more or less, any kind you like
- Preheat the oven to 350° F (180° C) and line a spring form cake pan with oven paper (I used one with a diameter of 20 cm). Set aside.
For the crust:
- In a large bowl add sugar, egg, vegetable oil, lemon juice and zest, vanilla. Mix the ingredients using a wooden spoon or a whisk.
- In another bowl whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix until well blended. Form a ball and set to rest in the fridge while you make the filling.
For the filling:
- In a medium sized bowl work vigorously the ricotta, the egg yolk and the powder sugar until smooth (I used a wooden spoon).
Assemble the Crostata:
- Take the dough out of the fridge. Divide the dough leaving a 1/4 out to make the lattice top. Using your hands, press the dough at the bottom and the edges of the cake pan.
- Add the ricotta mixture and level it slightly.
- Finally, spoon the jam over the ricotta and smoothen the surface.
- Flatten the set aside dough and make a lattice top by cutting strips (about 2 cm wide) with a knife or a cutting tool.
- With an offset spatula pick up strips and place in a lattice pattern cutting any excess off the edge.
- Bake the Ricotta and Apricot Jam Crostata in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until nice and golden.
- Take out of the oven and let it cool completely before slicing.
- Keep any leftover in the fridge.
You can use a stand mixer to mix the batter.
- Serving Size: 8 people
Making our recipes? Take a pic and tag us on Instagram: #sugarlovespices. You’re going to be in our gallery!
Disclosure: All links in our post are NOT affiliate links. They are only about products or places we normally purchase and like. |
I want to share a fun evening I had with 3 of my closest friends in the world. We have been friends since high school. Melanie brought her Vita-Mix machine and made the best drink. She peeled lemons, limes and oranges, some honey, a little sugar and a splash of vodka. Put them all in the Vita Mix, top it off with ice cubes and whirl!! I am talking about refreshing citrus drink that kept us going the whole evening. Not a seed to be found! Another “Got To Have” machine! I can see an endless amount of smoothie options in my future!!
I have to confess, I did purchase the dessert. If you have a Fresh Market near you, you have to try the Raspberry Almond Cake!! This is the second time this week I indulged. Both times to celebrate birthdays. A moist white cake sandwiched with raspberry preserves and custard. It is covered with an almond paste mixture that is then lightly toasted and surrounded with toasted sliced almonds. My mission: A La Carte Kitchen will develop their own Raspberry Almond Cake attach a beautiful photo. Look forward to it in the future! As soon as I can get back into my kitchen and cook! |
Chemical resistant coating – the solution against harsh substances
Nearly all coatings will be exposed to chemicals at some point, whether cleaning products, spills, or fumes. However most of these are mild, and the coating does not need a special formulation. Chemical resistant coatings or paints are designed to provide protection from the harshest of substances. They need to perform safely and consistently under punishing conditions, and so need to be highly resistant. Without proper chemical resistant coating, solvents, acids, alkalis, salts, and other substances can be absorbed by the substrate, causing deterioration and contamination.
The right chemical resistant coating is the one that satisfies the requirements of the chemical, as well as the needs of the substrate. Choosing correctly requires fully understanding both. In this article we will outline the different chemical resistant coatings options, and provide a guide for choosing the right one as well as where to find products and contractors in Pakistan.
Knowing the expectations helps define the chemical resistant coatings
Substrates and environments which require heavy duty protection from chemicals include flooring, storage or holding tanks, pipelines, bunds, buried metal and concrete structures, treatment plants, laboratories, cooling towers, factories, machinery and equipment, just to name a few.
The range of substrates, environments, and chemicals is matched by the range of chemical resistant coatings. To choose the right chemical resistant coating you need to know:
- Chemical type – each coating has different strengths, and may provide protection from one chemical but not another.
- Concentration of the chemical – the strength of the chemical will obviously affect the coating’s resistance.
- The temperature – a heated chemical adds an extra factor for the coating to deal with.
- Degree of exposure– will the substrate be immersed, or is it just contact exposure?
- Duration of the exposure – how long will the coating need to withstand the chemical?
Additionally, it is important to define any other beneficial properties the coating should have; these include for example high abrasion resistant in heavy duty ares, slip resistance on floors and stairs as well as excellent corrosion protection in highly corrosive environments.
The 4 most common options for chemical resistant coating
Chemical resistant coatings are available in a wide range of formulations, suited to different applications. The main types are polyurethane, epoxy, phenolic, and fluoropolymers. The choice of coating is further complicated by extra requirements such as high abrasion resistance, or sufficient lack of friction.
Option 1: Fluoropolymer
Chemical resistance: known for non-stick, but also highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including concentrated sulphuric, nitric, hydrochloric and phosphoric acids in temperatures up to 300°C
Applications: where a low coefficient of friction or a lubricious surface is required, for use on concrete or metal in secondary containment linings, acid plants, fertiliser plants, oil refineries, and more
Disadvantages: poor weather protection characteristics, and cannot withstand acetone, esters, ketones, and acetic acid
Option 2: Epoxy
Chemical resistance: protection against acids, alkalis, solvents, caustic fluids, fuels, fatty acids, salt or sugar solutions, chemical cleaning detergents and more
Applications: on concrete metal and wood; common on flooring in in the food and drink industry, garages, factories, and plants.
Disadvantages: tendency to weaken with high or fluctuating temperatures, lack of flexibility, not good with UV radiation (thus an indoor coating)
Option 3: Polyurethane
Chemical resistance: resistant to organic caustic fluids, acids and alkalis, fuel and hydraulic oils, and solvents.
Applications: where greater flexibility and ability to deal with high temperatures is needed, the preferred choice of chemical resistant coatings in the dairy industry (exposure to lactic acids)
Disadvantages: soft, likely to abrade, extremely sensitive to humidity during application, lower chemical resistance than epoxies have
Option 4: Phenolic
Chemical resistance: resist 98% sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, transmission fluid, gasoline, formaldehyde, phenol, and numerous other chemicals also in high temperatures
Applications: for tanks, ducts, piping, immersion service for most acids, solvents, and salts (chemical storage), flooring in healthcare, science, technology and electronics industries, as well as chemical and waste treatment plants, pulp and paper mills, and power generation plants
Disadvantages: non-resistant to some strong organic acids and solvents, and the less epoxy used in the makeup of the coating, the less resistant to chemicals it is
Chemical resistant coating Pakistan – Product overview
With so many different environments and surfaces that require chemical resistant coatings, it is no surprise that the range of products and services is extensive. There are the chemical coatings above, but there are also specially formulated coatings like methacrylate, which cures at low temperatures and is used for cold-store and freezer rooms. Below is a table outlining some of the available products, with price indications (subject to change and variation). It is these chemical coatings from reputable coatings manufacturers like AkzoNobel that installers trust.
|Chemical resistant coating type||Chemical resistant coatings product||Product suitability|
|Two component epoxy||Jotun Jotafloor Topcoat||Ideal for industrial floors, laboratories, hospitals, food and beverage plants, kitchens, warehouses, factories, and manufacturing facilities.|
|Two component polyurethane topcoat||Rust-Oleum 9600 Rust-O-Thane Polyurethane||Heavy industrial and marine exposures, moist conditions and high abrasion and impact situations. Especially recommended for weather resistance.|
|Two component epoxy phenolic||International Interline 850||Tank and pipe lining for steel storage tanks and pipes containing a range of products including crude oil, gasoline, caustic solutions, potable water, and solvents.|
|Two component epoxy novolac||Sherwin-Williams Nova-Plate 325||For use on steel and masonry surfaces in industrial and marine environments such as oil storage tanks, secondary containment, ethanol storage tanks, and more.|
|Two component novolac vinyl ester||International Interline 955||Reinforced with glass flake to increase chemical and abrasion resistance. Intended for use in internal lining of chemical storage tanks and vessels for hot media (up to 90°C) or acids.|
Chemical resistant paint manufacturers and installers in Pakistan
A chemical resistant coating should be applied by a trained professional to ensure an effective and flawless application. Fortunately there are many coating installer companies operating across Pakistan. If you have a project that needs chemical resistant coating, our experts are here to help! In cooperation with our partners we can provide you with a tailor-made quote, and connect you with the right coating solution. Just get in touch via e-mail or the “Request a quote” button at the bottom of this article.
Here below is a list of coating manufacturers located in Pakistan offering chemical resistant coatings.
|Chemical resistant coating manufacturer||Address (Pakistan)|
|Jotun Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd.||2 KM Defence Road, off 9 Km Raiwind Road,، Defence Road, Lahore, Punjab 54770|
|AkzoNobel Pakistan||346, Ferozepur Road, P O Box 273, Lahore 54600|
|Hempel Marine and Commercial Services (Pvt) Ltd.||9C First Commercial Lane Zamzama,, Phase 5, D.H.A., Karachi 75600|
|Berger Paints Pakistan||Street 36, Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate Quaid e Azam Industrial Estate, Lahore, Punjab|
|Kansai Paint||11 – CCA, Phase V, Defense Housing Authority, Lahore| |
Alfalfa cubes are just what the name implies -- alfalfa hay that has been made into cubes.
This is accomplished by chopping the alfalfa hay into smaller particles and then compressing it into cube form. Because the particles of hay still have a fairly large size the cubes are still considered long stem forage.
This longer particle size is what allows them to be used as a hay replacement, because the horse’s digestive system still utilizes them in the same manner as hay.
One question that is often brought up when a horse owner decides to feed alfalfa cubes is
”Do the cubes need to be soaked prior to feeding?”
The short answer is that it depends on the horse.
Any horse that has a history of choke should have all feed soaked, including cubes. It is also a wise idea to soak alfalfa cubes for younger and older horses that might have trouble chewing the large cubes.
I let the horse dictate whether or not they are soaked.
If you were to watch my older mare eat soaked alfalfa cubes, you’d think I’d starved the poor girl, she gobbles them up so fast. However, leave them unsoaked, and she’ll carefully pick around them to eat all her other feed, and leave the cubes sitting in the feed pan...if she doesn’t pick them up and throw them out!
On the other hand, my gelding is affectionately called “Mr. Hoover” and will eat the cubes wet or dry...so I feed dry cubes to him and the other horses that will eat them.
If I am introducing cubes into the diet of a horse that has never had them, I will offer 1 or 2 cubes dry and watch how he eats them. If he eats them with no problem, I feed his dry, and monitor to make sure he continues to eat all of them every meal as the amounts are increased.
If the horse won’t eat them dry, or won’t clean up the entire serving of them during meal time after the amount has been increased, I try soaking them. A lot of times it’s a guessing game as to how much water is required. Some horses like them soupy while others will eat them better if they are just moist enough to be soft.
When feeding alfalfa cubes to replace hay, you should feed 1 pound of cubes to replace 1 pound of hay.
Alfalfa cubes can be found at most farm stores, though in my experience they might be hard to find in the smaller stores. They are usually sold in 50 pound bags. I advise calling ahead first to ask if the store carries them or can order them in for you. Also make sure to inquire what size bag the cubes are sold in -- there are small bags (2-3 pounds) that are sold for rabbit owners, and those wouldn’t last most horses more than a day! |
About Jorvik Viking Center Ticket
Travel BACK 1000 years on board your time machine through the backyards and houses to the bustling streets of Jorvik. Everything here is based on facts - from the layout of the houses the working craftsmen the language of the gossiping neighbors to the smells of cooking and the cesspit! As you travel through the busy market place you will experience a blast of smoke as you pass the blacksmiths furnace smell the fish on the riverside and visit the hearth scene inside the Viking home. You are in JORVIK! Everything in JORVIK Viking Center is based on archaeological evidence unearthed during the Coppergate excavations undertaken between 1979-81 by York Archaeological Trust. Archaeologists started digging on the site of an old sweet factory and unearthed remains of 10th century Viking-age buildings that were surrounded by moist spongy layers of earth similar to that of a peat bog. These damp conditions helped preserve everyday Viking items such as wood leather cloth bugs and even a Viking toilet and its contents. In total an incredible 40000 objects were uncovered by excavating 36000 layers and sieving 8 tonnes of soil! Includes - Attraction ticket Excludes - Transportation to-from attraction - Meals and drinks - Personal expenses - Tips and gratuities - Optional activity costs Please Note - Children below 5 years old are free of charge. |
The road, known as a "sacbe," is roughly 6 feet across and is made from white volcanic ash from a previous eruption that was packed down and shored up along its edges by residents living there in roughly A.D. 600, said CU-Boulder Professor Payson Sheets, who discovered the buried village known as Ceren near the city of San Salvador in 1978.
In Yucatan Maya, the word "sacbe" (SOCK'-bay) literally means "white way" or "white road" and is used to describe elevated ancient roads typically lined with stone and paved with white lime plaster and that sometimes connected temples, plazas and towns.
The sacbe at the buried village of Ceren -- which had canals of water running on each side -- is the first ever discovered at a Maya archaeology site that was built without bordering paving stones, said Sheets. The road was serendipitously discovered by the team while digging a test pit through 17 feet of volcanic ash in July to analyze agricultural activity on the edges of Ceren, considered the best preserved Maya village in Central America.
"Until our discovery, these roads were only known from the Yucatan area in Mexico and all were built with stone linings, which generally preserved well," said Sheets of CU's anthropology department. "It took the unusual preservation at Ceren to tell us the Maya also made them without stone. I'd like to say we saw some anomaly in the ground-penetrating radar data that guided us to the Ceren sacbe, but that was not the case. This was a complete surprise."
The sacbe was struck almost dead-on by the excavators of the 3-meter by 3-meter test pit, said Sheets, with the full width of road visible. In order to follow the sacbe, two subsequent test pits were excavated to the north and confirmed the sacbe had a minimum length of at least 148 feet long -- about half the length of a football field.
The sacbe appears to be headed toward two Ceren ceremonial structures less than 100 feet away -- buildings that were unearthed in Ceren by Sheets and his team in 1991. One structure is believed to have been used by a female shaman. The adjacent community ceremonial structure contained evidence -- including the bones of butchered deer, a deer headdress painted red and blue and a large alligator-shaped pot -- that large quantities of food and drink were being prepared and dispensed to villagers in the town plaza during what Sheets believes was a crop-harvesting ceremony.
"We know there was a celebration going on when the eruption hit," said Sheets. "And we've found no evidence of anyone going back to their houses, gathering up valuables, and fleeing, because all the household doors were tied shut. We think people may have left the plaza and run south, possibly on the sacbe, because the danger was to the north."
Radiocarbon dates from Ceren indicate the eruption occurred in roughly A.D. 630, and CU researchers have even pinpointed the month and time of day the fiery mass of ash and debris from the Loma Caldera volcano rained down on the town from less than a third of a mile away. Sheets believes the eruption hit at roughly 7 p.m. on an August evening because of the mature corn stalks preserved in ash casts, the fact that the farming implements had been brought inside, the sleeping mats had not yet been rolled out, meals had been served but the dishes were not yet washed, and corn was set into pots to soak in water overnight.
Sheets said it is logical that the villagers in the plaza might have used the white sacbe as an emergency route to flee the destruction of the volcano in the dark of night. "How far they might have gotten, I don't know," said Sheets. "It would have been a footrace. I think it is very likely we will find bodies as we follow the sacbe southward in future excavations." To date, no human remains have been found at the village.
Sacbeob, the plural of sacbe, had strong practical, political and spiritual connotations in the Pre-Columbian Yucatan, said Sheets. Some were fairly long -- up to 40 miles -- while others stretched less than 50 feet. Because of the high level of preservation at Ceren, the researchers can see hand marks of farmers who were repairing the edges of the sacbe.
While there is speculation the Ceren sacbe may have led to the Maya center of San Andres roughly three miles to the south, there is no evidence of that yet, Sheets said.
While some refer to Ceren as "The New World Pompeii," Sheets is quick to point out the differences. Pompeii was an affluent Roman resort community with multi-story concrete houses, stone streets and marble statues, while Ceren was a modest farming community. Because tiny particles of hot, moist ash blanketed Ceren and packed the thatch-roofed structures, gardens and agricultural fields, the preservation of organic materials is greater than at Pompeii, where dry, pea-sized particles rained down in the Mount Vesuvius eruption of A.D. 79.
Sheets has visited Pompeii, and researchers from Pompeii have visited Ceren, analyzing the similarities and differences at the sites. "When they tell me they wish they had this kind of preservation level at Pompeii, I tell them I wouldn't mind finding a marble statue or two at Ceren," said Sheets.
The Ceren preservation is so great that researchers have found marks of finger swipes in ceramic bowls, human footprints in gardens hosting ash casts of plants like corn and manioc, thatched roofs, woven baskets and pots filled with beans. Researchers have found the remains of mice that lived in the thatched roofs of kitchen areas, and entomologists have even been able to discern that two species of ants inhabited the village, Sheets said.
Thus far 12 buildings at Ceren -- which is believed to have been home to about 200 people -- have been excavated, including living quarters, storehouses, workshops, kitchens, religious buildings and a community sauna. There are dozens of unexcavated structures and there may even be another undiscovered settlement or two under the ash, which covers an area of roughly two square miles.
While much of the Maya archaeological record points to rigid, top-down societies where the elite made most political and economic decisions, there is evidence of some autonomy at Ceren, including divergent choices by farmers regarding crop cultivation techniques that were discovered this summer, said Sheets. He believes a community building with two large benches in the front room may have hosted village elders when it came time to make community decisions at Ceren.
In addition to Sheets, the 2011 team included CU-Boulder graduate students Christine Dixon, Alexandria Halmbacher and Theresa Heindel, University of Cincinnati Professor David Lentz, University of Cincinnati graduate student Christine Hoffer, Celine Lamb from the Sorbonne in Paris and 23 local Salvadoran workers. The 2011 field season was funded by the National Science Foundation.
"Students on the project are essential," said Sheets. "They put up with less than ideal living conditions and they do valuable work, sometimes pursuing their own research paths based on discoveries they make at the site." Since 1978, more than 30 undergraduate and graduate students have worked under Sheets at Ceren, including 14 who have received or are pursuing master's or doctoral degrees.
"When I first heard about Ceren, I immediately wanted to know more," said master's degree candidate Theresa Heindel, who came to CU-Boulder after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and who spent the 2011 field season assessing crop cultivation in Ceren's agricultural fields that were frozen in time by ash. "We don't see this type of cultivation anywhere in Central America, and we don't see this level of preservation anywhere in the world."
In 2009 Sheets and his team discovered a previously unknown Maya agriculture system at Ceren -- intensively cultivated manioc fields that yielded at least 10 tons of manioc shortly before the eruption 1,400 years ago. It was the first and only evidence of intense manioc cultivation at any New World archaeology site and Sheets and others believe such large manioc crops could have played a vital role in feeding indigenous societies living throughout tropical Latin America, he said.
Sheets has collaborated with the National Science Foundation, the National Geographic Society, the Smithsonian Institution, the Getty Conservation Institute and a number of universities since 1978. The 10-acre Joya de Ceren Archaeological Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
"When the radiocarbon dates on the thatched roofs came back in 1978, I saw the rest of my professional life. I knew I did not need to look for any more new archaeological sites," said Sheets. "There is well over a century of research still to be done at Ceren -- in some ways we've only scratched the surface."
A video news story on Ceren is available by going to http://www.colorado.edu/news/ and clicking on the story headline.
Images of the site are available by entering the keyword "Ceren" at http://photography.colorado.edu/res/sites/news/.
Payson Sheets | EurekAlert!
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I tend to judge a Chinese restaurant by their fried rice, a Thai place by the Pad Thai, a pizzeria by its pepperoni and cheese, and a bakery by its vanilla cupcake. The beauty of its simplicity lies in how versatile it can be yet how it can stand alone as a dessert show-stopper untouched. Two ways I’ve played with this recipe is first by giving it a tropical flare by topping it with toasted coconut and candied dried pineapple, and then filling the cupcake with something (in this case, some candy… more on that later).
First we have to start with the base recipes. I always use the Magnolia Bakery recipe which I’ve included below. The recipe is meant for one 9×13″ cake or a three layer 9″ round cake. However, since I veer more toward mini cupcakes (it’s just better for parties and potlucks), it’ll make 48 minis plus 12 regular cupcakes.
Vanilla Cake (Magnolia Bakery)
1 ¼ self-rising flour
1 ½ all-purpose flour
1 cup butter; softened
2 cups sugar
1 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line your cupcake tins.
- In a small bowl, mix your flours together.
- In a large bowl, cream butter on medium speed and then gradually add sugar. Add eggs one at a time and beat until fluffy. Add flour in three parts alternating with milk. Stir in vanilla.
- Spoon batter into prepared tins and bake for 15-18 minutes.
½ cup shortening
½ cup butter; softened
3 ½ cups icing sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
¼ cup milk
- Beat shortening and butter together. Add icing sugar and beat for about 3 minutes, scraping the sides. Add vanilla and milk and beat for another 5 minutes until fluffy, scraping the sides as needed.
Now that laid down the ground work, let’s dress ’em up!
I mentioned earlier to simply top the cupcake with toasted coconut and candied dried pineapple. Here is the result!
The other cupcake I made has been affectionately called the Candy Shop Cupcake. I cut a hole in the cupcake (saving the tops.. I’ll explain later) and filled it with Pop Rocks Candy.
I then re-topped them with the trimmed cupcake hole I cut earlier. Normally when I fill a cupcake, I don’t bother re-topping because, let’s be honest, what’s the point? But with this cupcake, because the pop rocks instantly start crackling, I wanted to preserve that as much as possible. Even though the cake is very moist, keeping the candy away from direct contact with the frosting helps keep the fizz going longer.
Next, pipe that vanilla frosting and then sprinkle some Nerds candy on them (I’ve tried it with more pop rocks but those tend to just melt right away). Tah-dah! You have childhood memories in a bite-sized cake! |
Summer ain’t over til it’s over, right? Which means sweaty vag is here to stay (for the time being, at least). There are simple steps you can take to keep your vagina feeling cool in the summertime despite the heat, humidity, and frolicking around in wet bathing suits. The pointers disclosed in this article are ones your doctor, mother, or gal pal may have told you in the past but, for me, they’re the results of personal experience dealing with the mishaps that come from not properly caring for your cooch. Yeast infections, BV, UTIs, and general discomfort down there are all major buzz kills. Whether you’re looking to get frisky or simply walk down the street without crotch-picking, these tips and tricks will help you stay on top of your womanly health and hygiene.
1. Don’t hang around in sweaty undies. A clean pair of underwear is your best friend in the summer. Stash one in your work bag, duffle bag, or beach bag for a quick change on-the-go. WIYB sampled stashable undies by Cheeki for this very reason. Yeast and bacteria thrive in moist places, so throw your vagina a lifeline and change into dry undies when you find yourself dripping in sweat. This is why sleeping commando is also great because it allows you vagina to air out and breathe…as if we needed another excuse to sleep naked.
2. Change out of your wet bathing suit. The inside of a wet bathing suit is warm and moist. In other words, a breeding ground for bacteria. Bathing suit material also absorbs the various chemicals and bacteria found in pools and oceans, so while it feels nice to splash around, change out of your wet bottoms when you’re done having fun in the water. If you have a weakened immune system or take certain medications, you’re more likely to be affected by hanging out in a damp bathing suit, so pack a change of bottoms for an endless good time.
3. Invest in vag-friendly products. Products for your vagina do exist, and female-run companies are putting them out now more than ever—which makes us happy clams. With WIYB, you can try a variety of products that help combat pussy perspiration, keep your pH balance in check, treat vaginal dryness, and overall, empower you to feel confident in your sex life. Another great part about WIYB is we offer our subscribers discount codes to shop more of what they love on our brand partners’ sites, so you can get yours, and then get some more.
4. Wear cotton panties. One of the simplest ways you can care for your cooch in the summer is by wearing cotton panties. Not only are they comfortable, they also absorb moisture away from the vagina unlike synthetic materials that are often found in women’s underwear. Nylon, spandex, and elastane are a few of the materials that trap heat and moisture, making you more prone to infection. Check the tag of your next panty purchase and make cotton panties your go-to grab in the heat and while exercising. Oddo Body is our recommendation for a pair of simple and sexy cotton underwear.
5. Drink water. Staying hydrated in the summertime is especially important for your overall well-being, and for your vag. Drink as much water as possible to ward off UTIs as dehydration can be a catalyst for them (lady friends who are 21 and over, take note). Treat yourself to your daily dose of H20—about 8 cups—to help flush the bacteria out of your body that can cause a UTI. Drinking water also helps your body function optimally, which can make your orgasms last longer and happen more frequently. *gulp gulp*
Until next time, stay shameless.
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A turkey fryer is an apparatus for deep-frying a turkey. Fried turkey has been a wongtime favorite in de Soudern United States, and has recentwy become popuwar in oder parts of de country because of de reduced time needed to cook a turkey in a deep fryer, versus oder conventionaw medods such as an oven or a rotisserie griww.
A traditionaw turkey fryer kit consists of a burner, a warge stock pot wif wid, a basket and/or pouwtry howder, a wifter and a dermometer. The burner operates on a standard propane tank dat usuawwy must be purchased separatewy. Current burner units are much wower dan de originaw design so as to increase stabiwity and hewp prevent tip-overs. Lower cost units use an awuminum stock pot and a steew burner whiwe higher-end units incwude a stainwess steew pot and burner. Some stock pots may have an integrated vawve to drain de oiw. The pouwtry howder consists of an awuminum or stainwess steew disk wif a metaw rod formed into a woop wif de ends affixed to de center of de disk. The woop is pwaced drough de cavity of de turkey and de wifter is used to wower and remove de turkey. If a basket is used, it incwudes a baiw dat is grabbed by de wifter. The dermometer has a wong probe and is used to monitor de temperature of de oiw. The fryer can awso be used to cook oder pouwtry and seafood. The stock pot wid is used to cover de pot onwy when not actuawwy frying or when preparing oder foods by boiwing in water. Heavy gwoves and an apron are recommended.
Some vendors now offer an add-on temperature controw vawve. This consists of a vawve dat goes between de propane tank and de burner and a wead wif a dermaw sensor. The sensor is pwaced into de oiw and de vawve adjusts de fwame to achieve a constant temperature.
Ewectric turkey fryers have been introduced dat can be used indoors. Awdough de ewectric fryer does not heat up as fast as wif propane, it incwudes a dermostat wif a timer and a dermaw safety shut-off. Ewectric fryers can awso be used to prepare oder foods by frying or boiwing.
This section contains instructions, advice, or how-to content. (March 2014)
Deep-frying a turkey uses oiw over an open fwame, dus it presents some hazards. The operation must be considered hazardous from de time de fwame is wit to de time de turkey is removed and de oiw is coowed.
- A propane burner must never be used indoors, on a wooden deck, under a roof, tree, or near any fwammabwe materiaws.
- The propane tank must be pwaced as far away from de cooker as possibwe.
- It is criticaw to note dat oiw expands in vowume by over 10% at cooking temperature. Leave room for expansion when fiwwing de pot wif oiw.
- Never weave de fryer unattended.
- The turkey must be fuwwy dawed or fresh and must be dry. If ice contacts boiwing oiw it wiww cause a boiwover and a fire hazard.
- Awways measure de amount of oiw needed and never overfiww de pot. Pwace de turkey in de empty pot and fiww wif oiw to 1 inch from de top of de turkey (not de top of de pot). Remove de turkey and heat oiw.
- Keep chiwdren and pets away from de fryer during and after operation, uh-hah-hah-hah.
- Ensure a fire extinguisher rated for fwammabwe wiqwids is readiwy avaiwabwe.
- Use a dermometer to monitor de temperature of de oiw during operation and keep de temperature at 350 °F (175 °C). Reduce de heat immediatewy if de oiw begins to smoke.
- Use heavy gwoves or oven mitts and wear a wong-sweeve shirt. Wear cwosed-toe shoes, not sandaws.
- Do not consume awcohow during de process.
- Turn de burner off before putting de turkey into de oiw. This is done so dat in de event of oiw overfwowing, it wiww not ignite. Rewight de burner if aww is weww.
- Lower and remove de turkey carefuwwy and swowwy to avoid oiw spwashing or spiwwage.
There is awso a possibiwity dat an overheated turkey fryer can expwode. Awso, if de oiw ignites, it can be what one Underwriters Laboratories representative cawwed "a verticaw fwame drower". A number of homes and oder buiwdings (such as garages) have been destroyed due to de unsafe use of a turkey fryer and UL has refused to wist turkey fryers, reweasing a short and graphic expwanatory video on deir concerns.
Deep-frying reqwires a cooking oiw wif a high smoke point such as canowa oiw, peanut oiw, saffwower oiw or a bwend. Cooking time is about four minutes per pound (or about 7 minutes per kiwo) of turkey, so a 15-pound turkey needs to be cooked for about one hour in 350 °F (175 °C) oiw. Oiw can be recovered, stored, and reused severaw times before it becomes rancid or contaminated. Storage wife can be extended by fiwtering used oiw and keeping it coow. A generous rub of sawt and pepper may be used to increase fwavor. The turkey can awso be seasoned wif an injectabwe marinade. Fried turkeys cannot be stuffed, nor do dey provide drippings or brof for gravy.
After roasting, de most common medod of turkey preparation is deep-frying, soudern stywe, which invowves submerging de whowe turkey into a deep frying vat.
If performed properwy, deep-frying does not make food excessivewy greasy, because de moisture in de food repews de oiw. The hot oiw heats de water widin de food, steaming it from de inside out; oiw cannot go against de direction of dis powerfuw fwow because (due to its high temperature) de water vapor pushes de bubbwes toward de surface.
Whiwe a 9-ounce serving of roasted turkey (mixed parts) weighs in wif 548 cawories and 27 grams of fat, de same size serving of turkey, deep fried in peanut oiw, has about 574 cawories and 31 grams of fat.
Even dough soudern cooking doesn’t have a reputation for being de heawdiest of American fare,
fried turkey is traditionawwy prepared in peanut oiw because it naturawwy maintains high temperatures droughout de cooking process and stops de oiw from absorbing into de meat. This resuwts in a bird dat's crispy on de outside, moist on de inside and has a swight nutty taste. Deep-frying cuts way down on cooking time as it takes about dree minutes per pound, as opposed to de hours needed to roast a turkey.
Furdermore, peanut oiw is recommended as de preferred oiw to deep fry a turkey in, uh-hah-hah-hah. Aside from its dewicious taste,
peanut oiw is one of de heawdiest oiws. It is a vegetabwe oiw dat is naturawwy trans fat-free, chowesterow free, and wow in saturated fats. Peanut oiw is high in unsaturated fats, especiawwy monounsaturated fat, wike owive oiw. It is awso a source of de antioxidant, vitamin E and phytosterows, which benefit heart-heawf. Peanut oiw is awso a perfect choice for heawdier frying because it can be heated to a higher temperature dan oder oiws, and dis resuwts in wower oiw pick up in de food.
- Lynne Owver. "history notes-meat". The Food Timewine. Retrieved 2012-11-19.
- Andrew Tarantowa. "Why Deep-Fried Frozen Turkeys Go Kabwooie". Gizmodo.
- "Turkey Fryer Safety - Read de Turkey Fryer instructions or ewse!". Bbq.about.com. 2012-04-10. Retrieved 2012-11-19.
- "Underwriters Laboratories Turkey Fryer Demonstration". YouTube. 2009-11-06. Retrieved 2012-11-19.
- Jacobson, Michewe. "Just Because You're An American Doesn't Mean You Have To Eat Like One!" ShiresPress, 2011. pp 124-5. |
About Select Basement Waterproofing Solutions in Lincoln
- FREE No-Obligation Home Inspection!
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Select Basement Waterproofing Solutions provides waterproofing services in Lincoln and all of New Jersey. For the quality and level of service we provide with our basement waterproofing and mold removal, no one can compare. Select Basement Waterproofing Solutions offers basement waterproofing, crawlspace waterproofing, French drains, mold removal, mold remediation, basement remodeling to Lincoln.
Basement Waterproofing Facts in Lincoln, New Jersey
Most builders, architects, and engineers in
and the rest of the country have been neglectful in
their designs as to what is absolutely necessary to
assure a dry basement. As you may have noticed, your
basement walls (interior or exterior) have never been
waterproofed with a rubber membrane. And, your basement
floor has never been properly protected below the slab
to manage hydrostatic pressure. Imagine for a moment, if
we were to examine the excavation work preformed by your
Ground Water enters your basement at the footer joint because of tremendous pressure exerted by the earth on subterranean walls. This stress eventually causes a path of least resistance. According to the Home Inspection Census, 98% of all basements will eventually leak do to builder neglect.
Step 1 - Relieving Hydrostatic Pressure in Lincoln, NJ
The best guarantee to relieve hydrostatic pressure is
from the interior. To install a pressure relief system,
or a French Drain, we open the floor around the
perimeter of the basement floor. Never position
the pipe on top of the footer! Remember you footer is
level – Water doesn’t flow on a level surface.
Did you know that 5% of our competitors systems promote vapor transmissions that release increase levels of radon gas and mycotoxins. Radon gas is the 2nd leading cause to lung cancer.
Step 2 - Installation of Sump Pump in Lincoln, NJ
is useless if a Pressure Relief System is not installed properly. The dynamics of the sump pump is collecting the water flow that is produce from the French Drain pressure relief system. The average sump system at 1/3 hp will manage 2400 gallons per hour, which is more than sufficient in most cases.
One sump system should be installed for every 120 feet. However, if you experience a power outage the sump pump is useless so installing a battery back is imperative.
Step 3 - Fixing Structural Wall Cracks in Lincoln, NJ
Usually cracked basement foundation walls happen most
frequently in more established structures. However,
newer constructed buildings are not immune to quickly
developing settling concerns. As soil settles outside
foundation walls at differing rates, it expands and
contracts with seasonal freezing and thawing processes
because of hydrostatic pressure in the water table.
The sooner a repair is made, the lower the repair expenses, and often carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials (CFRP) can be used as opposed to more costly and extensive methods, including excavation.
Step 4 - Apply an EPA Mold Coating to Walls in Lincoln, NJ
Mold has certainly made its way into people's homes and
many people still do not fully understand the health
hazards of fungal exposure. The term toxic mold is
somewhat misleading as it exudes an idea that certain
molds are toxic, when actually certain types of molds
produce secondary metabolites that produce toxins. The
correct term is mycotoxins.
Airborne mycotoxins can definitely destroy one's health and home. Sometimes, people are unaware that they are breathing mold spores and mycotoxins until they are very sick. A myriad of serious symptoms and illnesses such as chronic bronchitis, heart problems, and cancer.
Step 5 - Install a Thermal Armor Vapor Barrier in
This will save on energy bills! As well as, eliminate rot and decay! Reflective Insulation has become a standard component of a total basement insulation system, and it’s a tax deductible.
The Thermal Armor matrix design provides two vital
1.) As a non-delaminate insulator - you never have to worry about deter ration from thermal by-pass, and it has an R/Factor of 14.1. The problem with Standard fiber class other than breathing in the air borne filaments is de-lamination, due to thermal moisture migrating through your basement walls.
2) Thermal Armor also offers an engineered path into the drainage system to manage wall condensation. Most home owners are unaware the thermal temperature 4 feet below the soils surface is 55 degrees 365 days of year – which is the major contributor to excessive moisture, that causes rot and decay.
Step 6 - HydroTex Floor and Wall Membrane in Lincoln, NJ
Floor & Wall Membrane Coating”. 100%
Waterproofing! Anyone thinking of finishing their
basement will require 100% protection. Look no future
than our HydroTex wall and floor membrane. Unlike
conventional sealants and epoxy’s - HydroTex will never
chip, peel, crack, blister or breakdown.
HydroTex is a polyurea and a polyurethane patenting formula blended at 180 degrees, and sprayed on like paint - and hardens in five seconds. Its property value increases your concrete by an amazing 1000% and will permanently seal all cracks forever, in addition to, eliminating moist floors. Our HydroTex membrane has revolutionized the waterproofing industry and is warranteed for 50 years. So if you are thinking about building a Home Theater that may cost upward of $200,000. , or just thinking of finishing your basement for additional living space – HydroTex is a must for the check list.
Step 7 - Installation of a Dehumidifier in Lincoln,
A dehumidifier on steroids that you never have to empty! In most cases you would need five dehumidifiers to maintain 2000sqft of basement environment at 42% R/H. Imagine doing that with one unit at 5 times less the cost of electricity. I would call that a miracle machine, wouldn’t you. Excessive relative humidity will rot your home – like termites destroys wood. The major culprit for basement molds, dust mites, termites, spiders and other insects is moisture.
If it never rained for another 100 years – you would still have a relative humidity problem due to thermal by-pass. Here is some basement science for you: The thermal temperature 4 feet below the surface is 55 degrees 365 day of the year. That cold temperature migrates through the basement walls mixing with your basement air, which is usually 14 degrees warmer. Anytime you mix warm air with cooler air – you get higher moisture content, better known as Excessive Relative Humidity, the water you don’t see – that’s the everyday problem. Get it!
Basement Remodeling Facts in Lincoln, NJ
Before you break ground on finishing or remodeling your basement, Better Homes and Basements recommends that you properly prepare your basements before starting the project. Most important is keeping your basement dry, not only from flooding from rain but water vapor as well. We suggest the following six step process in remodeling your basements:
Step 1 – Total
Basement Waterproofing in Lincoln, NJ
98% of all basements will eventually leak due to builder neglect. Most homes are not waterproofed with a rubber membrane. And, most basement floors have not been properly protected below the slab to manage hydrostatic pressure. The first step involves digging a trench throughout the perimeter of the basement.
Step 2 - Install a Thermal Barrier in Lincoln, NJ
This will eliminate wall moisture, save on your energy bills and provide you with tax deduction. You will never have to worry wall moisture. The thermal armor offers a continuous vapor barrier into the drainage system to contain wall condensation.
Step 3 - Green Friendly Framing in Lincoln, NJ
We can use Galvanized studs vs. Wood. Above, we are framing out the soffit to hide the HVAC trunk lines and all unsightly obstructions. With the right about of passion, equipment and team talent – we can take the ordinary to the extraordinary!
Step 4 – Your Choice in Lincoln, NJ
Choose between conventional sheetrock, purple rock, dura rock or aqua fiber rock. We often recommend aqua fiber as it is dent resistant, super water resistant, mold proof and class “A” fire rated. While it looks and paints just like sheetrock it is 100 times stronger.
Step 5 – Make your Basement Unique in Lincoln, NJ
You can achieve this through appointed details like crown molding, recess lighting, trophy lights, 6 panel doors, custom wood flooring, and wrap around custom paint. Our objective is to make the space so you would never know you were in a basement.
Step 6 – Home Theatre in Lincoln, NJ
Can you imagine a 160 inch LCD picture? While the $300,000 price tag may deter most homeowners, if you can afford this expensive toy, it is a must have. You can even schedule a private test ride with free admission. You can even bring your favorite Blue Ray DVD.
Lincoln Basement Structural Repair
Why do basements wall crack? Because your builder never used a backer board!
When ground water saturation occurs in the freeze thaw periods of winter, the ground expands, creating tremendous pressure exerted by the earth on subterranean walls. This stress eventually fractures the wall. According to the Home Inspection Census > 50% of all basement walls have a good chance of cracking or bowing in the winters to come!
Bowed and cracked basement walls can be a very serious sign of structural damage to the foundation. Traditional methods of addressing these issues include using wall anchors systems, steel I-beams, tiebacks, piering, and excavation.
Usually bows, cracks, bulges, and buckling basement and foundation walls happen most frequently in more established structures. However, newer constructed buildings are not immune to quickly developing settling concerns. As soil settles outside foundation walls at differing rates, it expands and contracts with seasonal freezing and thawing processes because of hydrostatic pressure in the water table.
There are several warning signs that should prompt a call to a professional for an inspection besides a bowed or cracked basement wall. The sooner a repair is made, the lower the repair expenses, and often carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials (CFRP) can be used as opposed to more expensive and extensive methods, including excavation. The most common warning signs include:
- Cracked Block Foundation - Indicates lateral pressure on the walls. Serious movement is evidenced in stair step and horizontal cracks in mortar joints.
- Cracks in Poured Concrete - Typically occurs within 30 days of the concrete curing process. Usually a very simple repair. However, in combination with other signs could be a more serious sign of settlement.
- Cracks in Brick Facing - Cracks can be a symptom of foundation movement. Refrain from cosmetic repairs until a professional foundation repair specialist determines the cause to minimize future expenditures and hassles.
- Chimney Cracking or Leaning - Often, chimneys are built on independent footers. Therefore, cracking and leaning usually indicate movement in this particular footer. A more severe problem would be foundation movement disturbing this independent footer. A professional can determine the extent of the concern.
- Drywall Cracks - Shifts in the foundation often cause other cosmetic damage inside the building. Drywall cracks around windows, doorframes, and in corners are common symptoms of significant foundation movement.
- Uneven Doors and Windows - Another typical indication of foundation shifting. Shifting could cause framework to contort out of square, leading to windows and doors sticking or not opening and closing properly.
Sinking Foundation - Perhaps the most serious sign of settlement. The foundation sinks because it is separating from the building structure. This must be taken care of as soon as possible or may lead to wall collapse.
Lincoln Basement Waterproofing Warranty
- LIFETIME WARRANTY - FULLY TRANSFERABLE
- SUMP PUMPS & BETTER BACKUPS INSTALLED
- FULLY INSURED
- FREE ESTIMATES
- QUALITY AT UNBEATABLE PRICES
- PROFESSIONAL QUALITY
- FAST JOB COMPLETION
Lincoln Waterproofing Facts About Mold
Mold has certainly made its way into people's homes as well as the headlines recently. Many people still don't fully understand the health hazards of fungal exposure. The term toxic mold is somewhat misleading as it exudes an idea that certain molds are toxic, when actually certain types of molds produce secondary metabolites that produce toxins. The correct term is mycotoxins.
Airborne mycotoxins can definitely destroy one's health and home. Sometimes, people are unaware that they are breathing mold spores and mycotoxins until they are very sick. Non-toxic molds usually produce minor allergic reactions - and once you leave the affected area - you most likely recover with few serious side effects. However, if you have been exposed to the dangerous molds such as Stachybotrys or Chaetomium, they could suffer from a myriad of serious symptoms and illnesses such as chronic bronchitis, learning disabilities, mental deficiencies, heart problems,cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, lupus, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple chemical sensitivity, bleeding lungs and much more.
Mold can come in several varieties; some are healthful, while other types, such as the black mold that may grow in your home, are toxic. With the prevalence of black mold comes health problems in your family. The problems can range from common health problems, such as allergic reactions up to more serious health conditions, which include: breathing problems accompanied by flu-type reactions, asthma, memory loss, and even respiratory bleeding.
Here is a list of health symptoms commonly associated to toxic mold: Allergies, Memory Loss, Asthma, Bloody Nose, Restlessness, Respiratory Distress, Nausea Dizziness, Coughing, Chronic Headaches, Chronic Fatigue, Sneezing, Hearing Loss, Skin Rashes, Sinus Congestion, Body Aches, Eye Irritation, Nose Irritation, Throat Irritation, and Excess Mucus.
Your health may be in danger with toxic mold growing inside your home. If you, your family or pets are experiencing any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to contact us for a free mold removal estimate! |
A Slime-Fighter’s Plan: How to Stop Garden Slugs
Stop garden slugs from ravaging your vegetables and flowers with these strategies that are proven to work while protecting innocent bystanders.
Slugs do serve a purpose in your garden’s ecosystem: They break down plant debris into organic matter for the soil. You would appreciate slugs more if they waited until the plants died before starting to break them down, though we all know that is not always the case. Slugs also are a valuable food source for backyard wildlife. That’s probably not sufficient cause for you to tolerate the damage slugs do to your garden, but it does bring up the first strategy for keeping the slimy pests from becoming your public enemy number one.
Tactics to Control Garden Slugs
- Activate the food chain. Keep water in a birdbath and leave a few natural hiding spots for toads and snakes, and they’ll hang around and eat the excess slug population for you. Avoid using chemical pesticides that may harm wildlife and kill other important food sources for birds and reptiles.
- Modify the habitat. Slugs lurk in clumps of weeds, ground covers, and other low-growing plants, as well as in mulch and anyplace else they can find warm, damp shelter near their food supply. Clear the space around plants where you see slug damage and they’ll head for less exposed environments.
- Plant unappealing flowers and herbs. Plants with thick leaves or a strong scent, such as begonias, geraniums, lantana, lavender, rosemary, and sage, tend to attract fewer slugs than others do. Even if you don’t want a whole garden of them, include them in your flower beds and around your vegetable plot to help ward off the slimy pests.
- Water in the morning. Slugs favor damp, dark environments. Water your garden early in the day rather than in the evening so that when the sun goes down they are not drawn to moist soil around your plants.
- Pick your own. For a frustrated few (you know who you are), there is a certain pleasure in handpicking slugs and tossing them into the chicken pen or a bucket of warm, soapy water. For the rest of us, it can be effective, if not therapeutic. Rather not touch the little slimers? Many gardeners pick them up with chopsticks instead of their hands.
- Lay a trap. Slugs congregate under boards and other places where the soil stays damp. Place a board in your garden at night, lift it up, and look beneath it in the morning, and you’ll find many mollusks you can scrape into a bucket.
- Bait them. When your garden is overrun by slugs, you need a solution that’s effective and at work all the time. Safer® Brand Slug & Snail Killer contains sodium ferric EDTA as its active ingredient which triggers the dehydration process, then eliminating the mollusks. Best of all, it can be used in edible gardens up to the day of harvest.
More Help to Stop Garden Slugs
Are you at war with garden slugs? Let us know about your tactics the next time you visit Safer® Brand on Facebook. You can also get your questions answered by reaching out to our consumer care team at 855-7-ORGANIC. You can also subscribe to our E-Newsletter for links to articles like this one and announcements of new gardening products. |
Mr Fothergills - Flower - Sunflower - Taiyo - 50 Seeds
Sunflower - Taiyo
Large golden yellow heads, each with contrasting dark centres are produced on tall plants reaching the height of 150cm. This variety is ideal for the back of borders and cutting.
Sow outdoors, from March to May, where they are to flower, 1.5cm deep, directly into finely-prepared, well-drained soil, which has already been watered. Sow two seeds together every 45cm. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Remove the weaker plant, which can be transplanted if desired. Water well until young plants are established. Or sow indoors, from March to May, 1.5cm deep, individually in small pots of compost. Water well and place in a cold frame or greenhouse. Keep the compost moist. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions avoiding frosts, before planting out, from May to June, 45cm apart. Flowers from June to September. |
Quiko Exotic Egg Food for Exotic Finches
Quiko Egg Foos are made with real whole eggs and pure honey without the use of oils, which may cause rancidity. Quicko products are simply the best quality available.
Quiko Exotic can be used three different ways:
1. Sprinkle 2 Tbs. of dry Quiko Exotic over your bird's daily diet.
2. Moisten 2 Tbs. of Quiko Exotic with enough water or juice to make a moist crumble texture, feed in a separate treat cup.
3. Mix 2 Tbs. of Quiko Exotic with 1 Tbs soaked seed and feed in a separate treat cup.
For variety try combining chopped fruit (kiwi, grapes, bananas, papaya) or chopped greens (kale, endive, romaine lettuce) or sprouts and seeds to the egg food.
For convienence, a larger batch can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Remove and discard any uneaten food daily.
Store Quiko Exotic Egg Food in a cool dry palce
Egg Biscuit (Dried Egg Product, Wheat Flour, Sugar), Honey, Dehulled Soybean Meal, White Millet, Niger Seed, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin A Acetate, Cholecalciferol, a-Tocopherol Acetate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin supplement, Biotin, Pyridoxine, Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Source of Vitamin C) |
An Overview of Dentures for Seniors
Dentures are a type of false teeth that many seniors use after losing teeth to decay, disease or physical damage. Dentures are very convenient, work well and allow you to maintain a normal lifestyle. Here is an overview of dentures for seniors.
Full and Partial Dentures
The first thing to understand is that there are full and partial dentures. Full dentures include a complete array of false teeth meant to replace all of the teeth in the mouth. These are appropriate only when all teeth have been lost or extracted. Partial dentures consist of short bridges of multiple artificial teeth that span open spaces between natural teeth that are still present in the mouth.
Immediate and Conventional
Two more categories of dentures to know about are immediate and conventional. These terms have to do with when the dentures are fitted to the gums and jaw. Conventional dentures are created from molds of the gums and jaw after removing all the teeth and allowing the tissue to heal for a few months. These are very stable. Immediate dentures are made by a dentist from molds taken before the teeth are all extracted or before the tissue heals. They are fitted onto your gums as soon as the teeth are extracted although adjustments are usually necessary over time.
Fixed and Removable Dentures
A final distinction is between fixed and removable dentures. Most dentures are removable like a mouth guard. Denture adhesive can be used to help secure them in place during the day. Fixed dentures are attached to implants put in the mouth. A dentist can insert posts into the jaw or roof of the mouth. Fixed dentures lock onto those posts so that they stay in place permanently.
Materials Used To Make Dentures
Many materials are used to create dentures. Exactly what they’re made of depends on your specific needs. Nearly all dentures today are made mainly from acrylic resin. Some dentures have metal inside of the acrylic teeth and along the plate in order to provide extra support. A few types of high-end dentures actually have sculpted porcelain teeth set in an acrylic base. The quality and combination of materials used in the false teeth can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer.
Wearing conventional removable dentures is usually very easy and can greatly improve senior health. The dentures are worn all day long and then soaked in a special solution at night. Oral hygiene with dentures is simple. The dentures are brushed once a day, rinsed off after meals and then soaked to stay moist overnight. You do have to visit a dentist occasionally to ensure everything fine with the dentures and your gums. |
Brussels Sprouts Long Island 100 Seeds
Brassica oleracea gemmifera
Sowing: Sow Brussels sprouts seeds from spring to early summer in cold-winter regions; in warm-winter regions, sow from fall to spring. Start seed indoors 8 weeks before transplanting seedlings to the garden. Sow seeds in a warm, well-lighted location—in a bright window or under grow lights. Sow seeds 1/4″ (6 mm) deep in seed starting mix. Firm lightly and keep mix just moist. Seedlings emerge in 10-21 days at 50-85°F (10-29°C). Sow seed outdoors when the soil temperature is at least 60°F (16°C).
Growing: Seedlings can be transplanted into the garden when they are 4-5” (10-13 cm) tall. Move seedlings to a sheltered place outdoors to “harden off” 1 week before transplanting. Space plants in garden 24″ (61 cm) apart in rows 36” (91 cm) apart. Grow Brussels sprouts in rich, well-drained soil, in full sun. Give sprouts regular water keeping the soil evenly moist.
Harvesting: Brussels sprouts are ready for harvest 100-110 days after sowing, 80-90 days after transplanting. Harvest Brussels sprouts after frost (for best flavor) and through mid-winter in most areas. Pick when sprouts are firm and well-formed 1-1½” (25-38 cm) in diameter.
Sow seed in time for transplanting in mid summer in cooler areas and for transplanting late January-February in warmer areas. Always harvest sprouts from the bottom before they begin to open; stripping the leaves off just above and below the young sprout will help it to develop, as will pinching out the top once the plant is fully developed. |
Recommended Reading Part 2
The purpose of this page is to display a selection of articles related to the theme of spiritual ascension through crisis and releasing emotional blockages (dying to the attachments and habits of the past) explored in the e-book Karma & Emotions.
“If we were standing in your physical shoes, we would not let the reality of something be our basis for attention; we would let the feeling-vibration of it be our basis. So we would start by saying, to anyone who was interested in knowing what we were about, ‘If it feels good, I give it my full attention; if it doesn’t, I don’t look at it at all.’ You can and will create the essence of anything that you are giving your attention to.” – Abraham (Manifest Your Desires by Esther and Jerry Hicks, Hay House, Inc., New York, U.S., 2008, p.281).
“We have to heal our wounded world. The chaos, despair and senseless destruction we see today are the result of the alienation that people feel from each other and their environment. Often this alienation has its roots in an emotionally deprived childhood. Children have had their childhood stolen from them. A child’s mind needs the nourishment of mystery, magic, wonder and excitement. I want my work to help people rediscover the child that’s hiding in them.” – Michael Jackson (Dancing the Dream, Doubleday, London, U.K., 1992, p.80).
Emotions & Solar Flares
"Most of us are feeling the roller coaster ride of emotions that solar flares can bring up, and if this is new to you then this brief information may be of great support. Solar flares rise up from the Sun and energetically they bring up deep seated emotions to be cleared. We are in the time of great awakening and clearing our emotional body is very important if we choose to have a smooth ride. Hence, be gentle with yourself and give yourself and others some slack." (Awakening From Within newsletter, May 2012, www.awakeningfromwithin.com).
“I think it's important to be detached and put the facts to one side rather than dwelling on them. It's a discipline. We're here to accelerate our growth, often through illness and other crises, and ascend spiritually. Even when we do we may still have karma from previous lives to work off. Who knows? Just keep breathing and releasing those emotions because n doubt those early experiences helped to bring blocked fears to the surface that you've been holding onto for many lifetimes. We can only release these negative emotions by reexperiencing them - that's why we need similar challenging situations to those that caused them in the first place. Acceptance, gratitude and forgiveness are perhaps the most powerful tools we have. The last ones even, as Bill Hicks suggested in his last performance. They help to open the higher chakras and allow us to receive cosmic frequencies from the Self through the crown. It has been suggested that we meditate for longer periods each day if we are unable to clear patterns that plague us in order to 'whitewash' them with cosmic energies.” – Antraeus de Herschia (17 November 2014).
"Karma is really only a person’s own choice to make amends, a choice made on entering the spiritual or non-physical realms after bodily death, when the unloving thoughts, intents, words, and deeds of the life just past flow into their awareness as they remove their barriers to that awareness. It can be a very painful and shocking realisation." - Saul (channelled through John Smallman, 27 April 2015, Love is VAST).
"It is so much safer not to feel, not to let the world touch me." - Sylvia Plath.
“We understand the feelings of the reader who wrote her difficulty in believing that anyone would choose a life of suffering or cause suffering to others, that the first is masochistic and the latter, sadistic. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine why souls would willingly choose either role - or that all of you have done the very same many times. It is with unconditional love for all others in the pre-birth agreement that some souls agree to act with extreme harshness so others can experience what they need to balance lifetimes when they were the abusive ones. When peoples live together happily and harmoniously, life on Earth will be in balance and no more back-and-forth lifetimes will be needed.” – Matthew (channelled through Suzanne Ward, 24 June 2015, www.matthewbooks.com).
"Feelings are just visitors, let them come and go." - Mooji.
Letting Go of All You Know
By Lisa Renee
9 September 2011
We are not turning back. The future of humanity, the future direction of the human species is at stake and the ante has been raised. We are in the best of times and the worst of times. There is no denying the level of uncertainty and the disorientation we are feeling while in the pinnacle of this planetary energetic chaos. This rapidly increasing chaos is a result of massive changes to the fundamental energetic architecture of the planet, and it is an entirely necessary process to facilitate evolution into the next cycle.
This chaotic peak has radically increased the environmental transparency to view how dependent humans have become on the false programs of a mind controlled reality. These mind control programs have been propagated for 3D humans to believe that the physical world and our Ego is the center of the Universe. We are now being forced to learn a deeper Universal Truth about the true Nature of Reality and it can be very painful to realize. The Ego Nature is being destroyed in the Presence of the Supreme Nature of the Eternal Living Light. The Life Story is over as you knew it from your Ego, the 3D personality matrix. What you Thought It Was, Will Never Be. We are leaving the finite Ego Nature to Live within Cosmic Consciousness, our infinite Spiritual Nature.
Our Infinite Consciousness only Lives in the Moment of Now. The behavioral imbalances, the mental disease, the broken systems, the disconnected boilerplates regurgitating from the automaton “machine” mentality, are apparent in the 3D environment EVERYWHERE. Without a rudder, without direction (which can only be accessed from the inner stabilization of your core essence) many feel utter confusion in the midst of this accelerating chaos. How we perceive and experience this point of time during the Ascension cycle is a matter of personal choice. Having clarity from within this massive confusion requires awareness of negative patterns and their attachments and then the focused discipline of your Ego mind to clear them. It is the time to remove all attachments to the external outcome and personal results.
Many human beings are having trouble understanding the complexity of what they are undergoing and what they are actually “looking at” as their ego perception of reality is being dismantled now. Because most people misinterpret what is transpiring it can be very traumatic. It does not need to be this way and choice is offered. Mind control has been so powerfully effective on this planet that most people deny the existence of many things that are an actual waking walking reality around us every day. Such as the Extraterrestrial species and UFO’s that are around us every day (and most of us have no idea why.) Such as the ancient artifacts of a helicopter and speed boat carved into a 5,000 year old Egyptian Temple (proving we were very advanced centuries ago.) Such as the fear method of the power elite creating continual “unseen” enemies in the media to direct public opinion favorable to giving up personal constitutional freedoms. Such as believing the government and economic structures (such as the financial institution bail out) were supposed to be of primary service to help the public stay in business or have a roof over their head.
All of these examples, whether directly implicated with the Negative Alien Agenda (or Not) are commonly connected into one shared blaring fact – all of it is promoting anti-human agendas through deception and enslavement as acceptable social behavior. By staying asleep to these deceptions or by doing nothing - we continue to feed these control systems and keep them alive.
Many people say, “What does any of this have to do with me living my life?” This has EVERYTHING to do with your personal life, whether you as a human being, your children and the future timelines will live in freedom and self determination of your own creative expression. Where you vibrate now is where you will vibrate to when you leave your body, this planet or transfigure into an Ascending orb. What you decide now will impact generations. Invest in the permanent part of yourself, get into your relationship with your inner core spirit. To get into the Core Spirit you will have to face the shadows of deep fear and self deception. Acknowledge it. See It. Then give it to God. Inflexible minds only continue to deny the existence of the dark forces in order to attempt to continue to cover up the true nature of reality. We must confront the outer deception in order to get to the inner truth, and ask the hard questions. Who is benefiting here? When will we wake up and actually “see” what we are looking at? In order to finally “see” the nature of this planetary reality one has to Let Go of All you Know. Free your Mind.
Accept As It Is Now
Our 3D Ego Self and its distorted belief system will not continue to be reinforced anymore in the external environment. For those on the Ascension pathway, plotting, planning and strategizing for control over your future prospects is over. Your life force is in the hands of your Higher Self and you are learning how to communicate in the new language without the ego interference. Wherever you find yourself right NOW, there is a reason for it. Dissatisfaction, unhappiness and frustration in your life circumstances can only be shifted in the perception in the Now moment, there is no magical answer in the future to feed the unhappy ego. To overcome an unhappy ego you must surrender to and accept the circumstance As It Is Now.
For many untrained people at this stage of evolutionary development, ego denial of the facts and blaming everything on the outside is still used as a coping mechanism. This promotes more resistance and more energetic backlash to feed the uncomfortable circumstances, prolonging the issue. We must stop the blame game and accept the responsibility for our life circumstances no matter where we find ourselves at. By way of living and breathing in a body on the planet tells you that you agreed to be here during this challenging time. Accept that responsibility by avoiding the ego’s blaming behaviors or victimizer patterns. The external environment for many people now is crumbling, at the job, relationship, health, money, possessions and social level. The walls, the ceiling and the floor are caving in and many people are in a deep panic about losing their perceived external reinforcement of security and safety.
This of course is the great Illusion that must be dismantled in order to live consciously aligned to our core essence which holds the potential to infinite consciousness. There is no safety found in anything physical, the only safety is our connection to our inner core and true heart essence. If it is your time to be physically dismantled, breathe, surrender and accept it As It Is Now. Be as Still as possible. You are going to be alright. Things will then progress in your life much easier.
The Lit Path to Safety is Balance
If we can awaken from our mind controlled external nightmare and actually begin to feel within, we will also feel the pathway light up leading us to true safety and balance. There is a LIT PATHWAY to safety accessed through inner balance. When inner balance is achieved by the connected individual (no matter how intense the external chaos) the clear lit path of security and stable foundation is omnipresent. This emanates incredible peace and it is tangibly experienced when inner balance is attained. The goal of achieving balance through meditation, ego clearing and any other self reflective technique that works for you is very important now. This path of balance leads to the Aurora Guardian Hosted Ascension Timeline and is open to every person, place and thing that interacts with its new energy “unity source code” architecture. In order to connect to this architecture one must desire to know the inner light or exist in unity with God Source. God Source can only be accessed through the feeling and sensory intelligence of the pure heart. This is each person’s responsibility to learn how to connect with their personal heart space and access their inner core essence of being. NO ONE CAN DO THIS FOR YOU !
The principles of Unity, Freedom, Sovereignty and Spiritual Ascension are upheld for All Beings, and it is accessed relative to the quality of purity residing within the heart space. A Pure Heart has a High Frequency that is able to connect to God Force. A Blackened Heart has a Low Frequency and cannot connect to God Force. There is no judgment, sin or worthiness considered of any life force. All life is valued equally and given every opportunity to evolve. However, God Source and the energetic physics of that eternal source field is a mathematical architecture and cannot be accessed from within the ego architecture or from its mind control systems. Free your Mind, Live from the Heart and Terminate Fear from governing your actions and you will find safety in God Forces. It is that simple. However it is YOU that must apply that commitment to all levels interacting with your day to day life. If you apply daily devotion to these basic principles you will find release from the agony of negative ego bondage. It is this negative ego bondage which is manifesting a self created hell of mentally enslaved creatures. It is the same Negative Ego architecture that the Negative Alien Controllers use to ensnare humanity into enslavement.
Commit to living and expressing balance in your body, mind and emotions through spiritual connection and mental and emotional discipline of the ego. The Controllers have zero power over you when you are outside of their frequency reach by maintaining neutral balance. If you stay out of mental and emotional polarity (inferior and superior thoughtforms) it is very hard for them to manipulate or control you. The Controllers have no access to control Now Moment Consciousness and do not understand the self organization of God Force in Action. When you are capable to maintain and then embody energetic balance (through observer with no attachment to outcome) God Forces can access your being and bring resolution, reconciliation and peace to the most despairing of circumstances. Remember Fear closes the door to God Force while Balance (Peace and Love) Opens it.
Be Awake Without Living in Denial
One does not have to live in total denial in order to not be personally impacted by the incredible external chaos and human pain. Most people choose denial to avoid pain. If we deny dark force existence we then give it power to manipulate us masking as Gods Light. If we can see the chaos/pain as it is, accept it in the moment, we then have the power to invite God Source to Light the Way. Commanding your authority in Gods Eternal Light in the Face of the Darkness is much more effective in dissolving deception, lies and manipulation. The Dark has no chance when going face to face with the Transparent Truth. The Negative Entities controlled by Darkness are Ignorant of the Light, Ignorant of the Law and are deceivers. Dark Forces/ Ego forces are disconnected from Source light and will never tell the truth and never can be trusted as personal survival and feeding off others is their only priority. This is true for human beings possessed by these forces as well as interdimensional entities. As a result many lightworkers are deceived by Dark Masters, Negative Aliens saying they are “Jesus”, ”Mother Mary”, ArchAngel Michael and whomever they read in your ego you have a soft spot for.
Living in denial of the nature of reality ultimately will allow a blind spot in your ego to be manipulated by dark forces. Denial breeds deception breeds manipulation. Just because a person does not believe in negative forces or extraterrestrial involvement on this planet does not mean these same forces are not impacting his life. This is living like an ostrich with your head buried in the sand. Choosing to “know” means you must choose to grow up and become responsible. The planet is offering you two choices, evolve or stay in suffering. Staying in denial of your requirement to self responsibility to evolve will only prolong the mental agony. When you are informed, have evolutionary (ascension) context, you can choose and therefore are empowered. You have the personal power over what you choose as you gain knowledge and you can choose inner peace with your growth to learn self responsibility. As you participate with your growth, accept things as they are now, you will cease to suffer in pain.
The Social Sheeple Effect
However, for many humans with weak adaptive skills (which require mental and emotional flexibility), incredible mental frustration and emotional rage are apparent in the collective. Many people are being incited by the collective human mind and spinning out of control from its negative influence. Self discipline to self source the thought-form or emotion corrects this problem immediately. Ask yourself is this thought/emotion mine? Is this emotional manipulation or thought interference? Disidentify with the thought and emotion immediately and source its nature. Where is it coming from? Do you want to own it?
This lack of clarity regarding the necessity of psycho-emotional discipline to be a balanced healthy human is a massive issue in our society. This lack of self discipline breeds self entitled egomaniacs which lead to the social mass mind control of the “Sheeple Effect”. Sheeple are very easily plugged into the collective mind and controlled by the current fear program being propagated by the Controllers. ”Sheeple” are very easily manipulated and can be used to create more chaos and disruption as a distraction tactic.
Most times this is carried out by dark forces using a person’s righteous self indignation to prove his ego is right. Every Gridworker has been the recipient of a “sheeple” interference at some point, many times a clear Negative Alien possession of a human being. Currently Cataclysm, Weather manipulation, Psycho-tronic terrorism are their favorite fear program of choice. It their self interest to keep the larger public misinformed, uneducated, poverty stricken and painfully distracted in every way possible. When you are connected to your inner core, all of this is meaningless to you. Achieve inner balance and God devotion and then these items will cease to disturb you.
We all will witness more unprepared people and untrained minds undergoing confusion in this forced planetary change to transform ourselves. Many of us are here to guide the masses into re-education and rehabilitation from the lower ego mind. This evolution will impact everyone on this planet at whatever appointed timeline they have made an agreement to participate with the ascension process. We will see some people appear unaffected and others traumatized, while others live joyfully connected. None of that is our problem to fixate upon as we must focus on our inner person.
For most humans that have been habitually programmed into fears of basic survival, the intensity of the recent dismantle has been brutal. Basic stress management, positive thinking skills and emotional development to overcome trauma is mostly nonexistent in our social and educational systems. If the system manufacturers low adaptive skills it disempowers the individual to have the capacity to manage their own lives from accepting their own responsibility. This negative manipulation and thought control possession is rampant in the mass collective mind right now. How do you handle the stress of all you thought was reality, all you thought you were living for is actually not true? Let Go of All you Know. Free your Mind.
On the Other Side
For those of us that have made it to the other side, the inner peace and supportive energy has been nothing short of awe inspiring. (So this means YOU will get here too!) It is very clear that the Liquid Light of the Christ Sun Body is here, and we can feel it “living” inside our body. We are making a new residence for the Diamond Sun Crystal Body within our person and within this planet, and a joyful optimism is emanating from our hearts that we “made it”! We are learning the new “Diamond Sun” sensory language, as this is a new level of energetic communication that has completely changed the way we process information. This phase necessitated isolation to help the body prepare for its new configurations and well as explore how your body responds to this frequency alignment.
Many of us have recently had our 7D crucifixion implants released and are awaiting the monadic attunement in the next weeks to this merkabic circulatory system that runs the Krystic Living Light throughout our body. (This accelerated around June 1st when the magnetosphere adjusted and some of us began the ascension embodiment process reflecting that change moving us out of the lunar node connection to the solar node connection). This configuration is generating a completely different “spark current” set throughout the etheric-atomic body structure. This new spherical form is a “mirrored” ball of plasma waves generating throughout and around the radial body. (The radial body has the umbilicus that connects your entire Monadic Family all the way into your biology) These plasma waves are projected from a new “light” lens that moves in multiple complexities of axiatonal lines, nodes and transfiguration points throughout the merkabic circuitry. There are a host of bodily changes and symptoms.
The Solar Feminine Returns
Due to the recent planetary changes with the lunar forces, many women have endured massive changes to their bodies more dramatically than males at this time. The False Lunar control manipulated the magnetic fields, controlled the “magnetosphere” and generated an artificial frequency fence that suppressed humanity through transmitted mind control programs. This generates distorted magnetic sound waves that control matter compression rates that ultimately lead to the molecular compaction (death) of the physical body and sometimes the soul body. This magnetic compaction rate of the physical body (which accelerated the dead light miasma) is one reason why the physical human has been disabled from embodying its higher frequency Monadic body.
In March when the Unity Source Code architecture anchored into this planet, many of us (the “ascension prototypers”) went to work on embodying this new female template, the Solar Plating of the Feminine Principle. This is changing the lunar field distortion and its artificial magnetic imprints in how it has impacted our female cycles and biorhythms. This also has to do with a massive suppression insert in our pineal gland being removed. There are a host of bodily changes and symptoms.
Our entire endocrine system and how it produces, distributes and assimilates hormones into the bloodstream is slowly adjusting. Our entire biochemistry and bio-resonance is shifting. The menstrual cycle, as well as the female reproductive organs, are undergoing rejuvenation and harness/implant/artifact releases. This is creating all kinds of interesting to painful side effects as the body adjusts to stabilize this new hormonal and blood chemistry.
Our digestive system is undergoing a complete overhaul. In most cases very little solid food with a ton of fluids is required and will make you feel much more comfortable. Because of the incredible high frequency the digestive system and metabolic system slow down massively, and all energy is required for frequency integration. This means your liver is busy and there is no peristalsis movement in your intestines. Reducing your diet to liquids, puddings and small amounts of high nutrient foods that are super easy to move through - are your best choice if you are experiencing this. At this point if you consume anything solid or hard to digest foods - you will experience, high bloating distension, gas, belching and fermentation in your gut. It’s not pretty and feels bad.
As we are integrating more light, we are changing the mitochondrial DNA (sources from mother) and how we utilize energy conversion in the cell. We used to require more carbohydrate consumption to convert usable energy to operate our bodily functions. The stabilized light quotient of our Aura is now reflected in the ATP energy distribution in our cells. (ATP transports chemical energy within cells for metabolism.) Clearly it appears we will be consuming much less food from now on. (For more on ATP : en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adenosine_triphosphate)
Rod and Staff Unions
These assigned Starseed couplings have been a work in progress in the planetary field architecture since February of 2009 to sequentially dismantle the polarity (bi-wave) Vesica Pisces harness and the NRG program headquartered in the United Kingdom. The use of these structures on the planet is to collect, siphon and transpose life force and sexual energy from human beings. (To override this extreme polarity distortion these couples build a platform for the tri-wave field which allows true tantric (heart) union to occur.) The revelation hidden inside these “unions” are astounding as they have so many different dimensions of purpose for the Ascension process.
Some of these unions are genetically purposed to work on templating the transfiguration Orb architecture in the Merkaba body, as both Rod and Staff corrected principles are required to enable this function in the Diamond Sun Crystal Body. As the Female principle (Staff) holds the Monadic Blueprint architecture to infuse the Mother Aquamarine 13th Gateway, the Solar Father RA Rod principle unites with her to open the Inner Stargate within a 45 degree spinning field that collapses into a Transharmonic Orb body. That Inner Stargate is located inside our core Diamond Sun body and enables complete transfiguration of our physical and auric body to occur.
As the physical body dematerializes pulling its particle mass into the center of the body core, the mass is pulled into the core at a 45 degree angle from four sides. Upon the dematerialization collapse, the Orb field spins in 360 degrees aligned to zero point/144. The inner spinning core opens into the Universal Monadic Core and every direction and movement ( into any event horizon) possibility opens into the consciousness awareness field. Moving around from inside of this Orb Body feels like “sliding”. Similar to a slippery monorail, there is a directional movement of the consciousness field perception of “sliding” back and forth. It’s a little like having sea legs after sailing on a boat and returning back to walk on land. This experience has a definite change of “grounding” as your sense of self perception and “whereabouts” is nothing we know here on Earth!
Clearly the Mother has a lot of surprises up her sleeve for us still, and having the capacity to become a Free Transfiguring Ascended Orb in our Universe, appears to be another possibility left for us to ponder.
Thank you to the ES community and all planetary gridworkers who have been committed to their clearing work and in all ways that are supporting our planet to Ascension. In celebration of our four year anniversary of the ES internet community this 9/11, we have included a bonus meditation clearing treatment for all of our readers. As you feel guided from within your personal 12 D field, this Guardian meditation has specific language to clear and to be released from the 911 Armageddon software and its mind control implantation. This Guardian meditation is the energetic architecture override of the Alpha Omega Agenda also known as the Negative Alien 911 timeline. (This is the mission and purpose of our ES community.) Commit to human freedom and let us know how you do!
Here is the meditation link to share: www.energeticdownloads.com/AOAOmegaClear.mp3
Until next, stay in the luminosity of your Avatar Heart Path! Be Gentle with your hearts and each other.
Love Always, Lisa
© 2010, Lisa Renee - Please note in order to distribute this Newsletter in other forums please do so with the following guidelines: Include author's credit, copyright and include the ES website url. www.energeticsynthesis.com
"To offer no resistance to life is to be in a state of grace, ease, and lightness. This state is then no longer dependent upon things being in a certain way, good or bad. It seems almost paradoxical, yet when your inner dependency on form is gone, the general conditions of your life, the outer forms, tend to improve greatly. Things, people, or conditions that you thought you needed for your happiness now come to you with no struggle or effort on your part, and you are free to enjoy and appreciate them - while they last. All those things, of course, will still pass away, cycles will come and go, but with dependency gone there is no fear of loss anymore. Life flows with ease.” – Eckhart Tolle.
"Let go of the Past.
Let go of the Future.
Let go of the Present.
With a heart that is Free.
Cross over to that shore which is beyond suffering."
Dealing withyour darkness instead of denying it
1. i walk down the street.
there is a deep hole in the sidewalk
i fall in. i am lost ....i am hopeless.
it isn't my fault.
it takes forever to find a way out.
2. i walk down the same street.
there is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
i pretend i don't see it.
i fall in again.
i can't believe i'm in the same place.
but it isn't my fault.
it still takes a long time to get out.
3. i walk down the same street.
there is a deep hole in the sidewalk
i see it is there.
i still fall in...it's a habit
my eyes are open
i know where i am
it is MY fault.
i get out immediately.
4. i walk down the same street.
there is a deep hole in the sidewalk
i walk around it.
5. i walk down another street.
Intoxicated with the madness, I'm in love with my sadness
Bullshit fakers, enchanted kingdoms
The fashion victims chew their charcoal teeth
I never let on, that I was on a sinking ship
I never let on that I was down
You blame yourself, for what you can't ignore.
- The Smashing Pumpkins (from the lyrics of ‘Zero,’ on the album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness).
A friend: This lady was passing my tarot table and she told me, "You need to make the cards cry." My readings jumped up to the next level that day, as I stopped being concerned with tap dancing around the so called negative cards.
Antraeus: Yeah! I love that. We are taught that feeling feeling feeling is the answer...feel through the darkness to reach the Light. It's the only way. Feel all the pain we've locked away, the emotions we've denied life after life, release and be free, surrender and fly!
Why do you insist on pandering to the minds of the insane?
Extract from the awesomely powerful 32nd Darshan (Reflections) of the Enlightening Way of Mastery On-Line Ashram
"A key question Jeshua once asked me:
Why do you insist on pandering to the minds of the insane?
Though ego won’t be comfortable with this question, I would suggest you make your home in the breathing, sit back in your easy chair, and ask it, noticing what images/memories, come up... Allow them, look at them.... We are ALL under the spell of this ‘pandering’ (fear makes it happen), and this simple practice can be very liberating and healing.
Here is a great summation of the PathWay:
1. Turn within
2. Discover all obstacles you have created against love
3. Know your True Self
No, it won’t happen on a boring Saturday, but IF it is what is desired, it IS inevitable.
Key idea: Hope has NOTHING to do with Reality.
Key idea: “To know Love, give love.”
When we begin to find ways to share what we have been given, we actually enter a new stage of learning that deepens our realization of what Love really is. This further learning, further purifies and awakens us.
Jeshua: ‘Until you have given all you have received, your receiving is not yet complete.’ It is a transition from Studentship to Servantship. Wonder question: Where am I – truly – in giving away to others what I have received?
Deliberately make it part of your prayer, part of your desire and intention, daily, to help alleviate the suffering of others. Don’t worry... God will do the rest!
Key idea: The flow of love MEETS NO OBSTACLES
What?!!!!!! We all believe our attempts to love DO meet obstacles. And they are ‘out there’.
But, in fact, the obstacles are our resistances to the flow of love. Seeking these out is important!
Wonder question: What seems to prevent or block the flow of love through me?
Example: Not being understood
I need to know i am safe, first
I need it to be returned.
What other obstacles (can you see each is really a core belief/requirement we are making up?) can you discover as you simply ask the question, breathe, and observe what comes up????"
Navigating the Stages of Emotional Clearing
By Nicole Canter
7 April 2003
Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a painful emotional issue and couldn’t find your way out? Ever had one of those times when you thought you were done clearing it only to find yourself right back in it? I have and I don’t know about you but I find emotional clearing to be hairy, scary stuff. It’s like trying to find your way through a jungle full of quick sand pits and deep cavernous holes - one needs a really good, really detailed map. Throughout my childhood and into my adult life, I got stuck in the quick sand many times because I didn’t know how to navigate the stages of emotional clearing. So how do we move through the stages of emotional clearing? And just what is it?
Emotional clearing the process by which you peel off the layers of your emotional blocks, transmuting dense energies of anger, shame, and guilt etc., contained in each layer into compassion. Those layers are kept repressed and sealed in our emotional body until they are released to come to the surface (triggered into action) through the conflicts that come our way. At that point we become conscious of them.
Stages of Emotional Clearing
Once the energies formerly held with in a layer have reached the surface, we begin the process of clearing them. This clearing involves moving through a series of stages that enable us to physically and emotionally release those energies from our body while at the same time, integrating the fear which is at the root of them and learning the lesson involved. Whew! That was a long sentence!
Sometimes the clearing is mild because the stuck energies are mild but sometimes the clearing is very painful, escalating into a full-blown conflict with someone. Let me just say that regardless of whether it is mild or major it ain’t easy! It’s like trying to climb up out of one of those very big, very deep holes!
Why would we want to do emotional clearing?
That’s a really good question. There are many payoffs to emotional clearing. One is ascension - we must lighten our bodies in order to ascend and we can do this through releasing old stuck energies that make it dense. We do it in order to have better more satisfying relationships. We do it in order to have greater mental and emotional health.
Thanks to months and months of painful lessons with my husband Shaun I have finally learned to navigate the stages of emotional clearing - at least enough to write this article. All that I can say is bless Shaun’s heart for hanging in there with me. It has been a challenge to say the least! Clearing with one’s partner can be very frustrating because we’re constantly being forced to look at a mirror of ourselves. We can’t get away! Over and over we demand to know why we would have agreed to this pain and agony. Once we figure out that this is a process and we see the higher perspective, we’re able to move forward with a little more ease and grace each time.
The emotional clearing process is a process that takes us from the 3D perspective all the way into the multidimensional perspective where we can transmute the emotion out of our physical and emotional bodies. It begins with our *Inner Child (IC) being triggered into reaction and ends with us finding the higher, multidimensional understanding of the emotional issue at hand. In case you’re not familiar with the Inner Child, I’m talking about that little child inside of each of us, and although he or she behaves just like a small child, their real job is to protect our physical bodies from damage. The Inner Child does this through fear, but that fear becomes unbalanced when he or she begins to take over our emotions with it.
Also, keep in mind that you may not realise what is occurring until you get used to going through emotional clearing and recognise being triggered, and even then the first few stages (roughly 1-4) are often unconscious.
Stage 1: The Trigger
The first thing that happens when an issue arises is that my Inner Child (me) gets triggered. ‘Triggers’ are in our lives to bring up undesirable feelings from old, core emotional issues that we have failed to clear in the past. A trigger can be anything that elicits feelings of anger, guilt, shame, fear, or any other ‘negative’ emotion. It lets me know a boundary has been crossed or that an old hurt is still buried deep within. It can be person or even a situation (such as stumping my toe) that triggers me, and I always know it because I react. Sometimes the reaction is mild, like a subtle emotion and/or physical sensation, but there is always some degree of physical or emotional reaction (or both), even if it is just a faster heartbeat for a few seconds.
When I clear an emotional block, I normally clear one or more layers off of the core emotional issue, resulting in the trigger affecting me less and less each time. Once I fully clear the issue, however, the trigger melts away as if it were never there.
Stage 2: Identifying the Trigger through Anger
When we react to a trigger, we react, at the most basic level, in fear, because fear is the lowest frequency emotion. Sometimes I will literally be afraid, and I may even feel shame or guilt, but most often I will react in anger. Why anger? My Inner Child has been hurt and she will express that hurt with anger in order to protect me from feeling this hurt. Think of it as a shield to attempt to stop the pain from continuing by taking offensive action. Have you ever heard ‘the best defence is a good offence?’ The Inner Child thinks so!
Both Shaun and I have a core issue involving abandonment, and we always act as each other’s primary triggers regarding this issue. For example, when Shaun triggers my abandonment issue, I almost always react in anger first. The scenario usually goes like this: I make a decision to do something and I tell him about it. He comments, and I tell him he is trying to control me and I get very angry. But sometimes, I feel more subtle emotions instead, such as fear or guilt. The reason that they are more subtle, though, is because my Inner Child doesn’t really want to feel these emotions (which are an even lower frequency than anger), so she uses anger as our primary defence/offence.
Sometimes I am extremely angry before I even realise that I have been triggered. It’s almost like I go on Inner Child Auto Pilot! But the more experienced I get at this stuff I find that I can identify the trigger sooner.
Stage 3: Projection and Blaming
Once my Inner Child is sufficiently angry, she will take that shield of anger and deflect the feelings back to the other person by blaming them. This way my Inner Child and I do not have to take responsibility for creating our own reality, i.e., the pain we are feeling. Can you believe that in the past I have actually blamed Shaun for me stumping my own toe, when he was several rooms away in the house? Well I have because I couldn’t bear the pain of taking responsibility. This most interesting phenomenon is also called projecting.
So using my abandonment issue example, when I project back to Shaun when we’re having an ‘abandonment trigger,’ I point the finger at him and tell him he is controlling me and that is why I am miserable, sad, mad, etc. My Inner Child is not willing to acknowledge that this is OUR issue at this point, and so we will try to make it Shaun’s problem until we are ready to take responsibility.
Stage 4: Reaction/Projection and Blame by Trigger
Once I have reacted and blamed the ‘trigger,’ they will usually react as well, also feeling hurt, and point the finger back at me. This usually results in an argument, which may last for a few minutes or a few days depending on what layer of the block I’m trying to clear. You can see what a vicious circle this is!
For example, once I have blown up in Shaun’s face, he reacts and blows up in mine. His Inner Child isn’t willing to take on my pain, and if he has pain involved he doesn’t want to take responsibility for it either. So he points the finger at me, and we continue doing this until we get tired of arguing. Ugh!
It is worth mentioning that if someone has been consciously emotionally clearing for a while then they may react differently. I’m referring to when you can consciously see the trigger coming and choose to react differently. This means that you have almost cleared the block. But don’t beat yourself up if you’re not here yet - old habits die hard! Believe me - I KNOW!!
Stage 5: Expressing and Releasing the Anger
This is the stage where I usually begin to get a hold of myself and get with my Inner Child about what is going on. I want to strongly emphasise that all of this seemingly ‘negative’ stuff is OK! Your feelings are valid and it is ok to let your Inner Child express and react in an appropriate manner, i.e., expressing your feelings without hurting yourself and others. You may need to make agreements with your Inner Child regarding expressing so that both of you will feel safe while doing so.**
It is also very important that you express both verbally and physically in order to move the energy out of both the physical and emotional body. I have found it very useful to both yell and scream as well as write what I call a ‘bitch and vent.’ A bitch and vent may be as mild as a complaint or as explosive as a neutron bomb, with words of course. You can do this how and where you feel comfortable, but if you choose to bitch and vent to someone in particular, it is wise to ask them if you can unload on them first. If you don’t, they may react in anger. I also find an appropriate item to use physically, such as a foam or plastic baseball bat or a pillow, and then I hit my bed or the floor with it. I recommend any of these because I can’t hurt myself or others (or my possessions) by hitting something soft with something soft. When I am finished expressing I always know it because I feel lighter. If I don’t know I am done, then I keep going until I know I am done.
I can’t stress enough here that the main thing to keep in mind is that it is OK to express your anger, etc., and not to censor your Inner Child in any way regarding his or her feelings or thoughts. Let your IC express his or her feelings and validate those feelings with something like ‘I hear ya!’ or ‘You go!’ By embracing and allowing this ‘dark’ expression to come through, you will be able to integrate the fear and anger you are experiencing much faster.***
Of course, during our initial argument Shaun and I always release some anger. Sometimes we even sit there for an hour and bitch and scream at each other. We have mixed feelings afterward about this, because while we’re both sorry for what has transpired we both feel so much lighter and better! But other times we have to go out on our own and express the anger, and I always do what I recommended above.
Stage 6: Finding and Recognising the Mirror
In this stage I begin to step back and realise that I have an issue with the other person and we begin to consciously process by expressing how we feel to each other. Optimally we both engage in this, but if I have to continue without the other’s participation then it’s is ok. Also know that this step of the process takes an indefinite amount of time, all depending on the level of communication between me and my Inner Child. We usually start with an intellectual process and end with my Inner Child expressing her true emotional feelings that are at the core of the trigger. This is my goal - true, honest expression of my emotions. This is the language of the Inner Child.
Once I can be honest with myself, I am ready to look for the mirror and own it. Finding the mirror, or seeing myself in the other person, always shows me how I have treated my Inner Child. Owning the mirror means that I am ready to take full responsibility for my pain and my actions. It means being brutally honest with myself and with others, even if it hurts. So in my example, I said that Shaun was controlling, etc. But now I can see how I have controlled my Inner Child and not let her express herself or be who she really is because I am afraid of Shaun abandoning me. Now that’s a hard one to swallow, and for both of us because my Inner Child fears that I will abandon her out of blame. Hmmm…see a pattern here?
Stage 7: Clearing the Mirror by Taking Responsibility and Validating Pain
This is when I use multidimensional tools to ‘get’ the lesson, take responsibility and release myself and the other person from blame. This is what we call, ‘clearing the mirror.’ The tools I use are multidimensional tools known as the 7 Keys of Compassion. I use the Formula of Compassion (the 1st Key) and the Compassion Key (the 2nd Key), to clear the mirror and they work great! By using these tools I am always able to see the higher perspective and once I do I beam from ear to ear with gratitude for the person who is my trigger and always want to thank him/her for their role in the lesson. Once I can do this, I know and feel that I have ‘gotten’ it! Then I can congratulate myself for peeling yet another layer off of my emotional issues! Yay!
Once I get the lesson and am able to take responsibility for my part in the issue point, I am able to validate the other person’s pain and hurt. Validation means being able to apologise for pain I have caused the other person by my actions without any excuses or defending my behaviour. I speak to the pain by describing it as if it were happening to me. This is an important step, and can only be reached after I can emotionally connect with the other person’s pain. In the example of the conflict between Shaun and I, this is where I say to him, ‘Shaun I am sorry that I accused you of trying to control me. I am sorry that I didn’t come to you to discuss my idea before I made my decision. I am sorry that I didn’t treat you as a partner, and because of determination to have it my way, I accused you to trying to control….which is what I was doing! And so I am so very sorry for the pain that my accusation caused.’
I have to let them know that I heard and felt them by repeating what it is that they are hurt over, and apologizing for causing the pain. It doesn’t matter if I intended to cause pain or not - if I can feel their pain I am always able to validate it. And most of the time, all the other person wants is to hear is that I’m sorry they are hurting. Know that this doesn’t include any pledge to change my behaviour - I am simply validating their pain.
But what if I find that I cannot validate the other’s pain and hurt? What do I do then? I have to go back and talk with my Inner Child because I know that she is blocking me from feeling the other person’s pain. Why? Because she fears that I will abandon her if I feel Shaun’s pain. She blocks me from feeling Shaun’s pain because it is a type or level of pain that I have told her that I never want to feel…hence the blocking. So I make an agreement with my Inner Child that I will not abandon her if I feel Shaun’s feelings. I know when she has agreed because I begin to feel the pain of the other person...in this case, Shaun’s pain.
So that’s it...those are the stages of emotional clearing. Just knowing about the stages and knowing what to expect has given me great comfort when I am in the midst of my issues. Each time I go through them I figure them out a little bit more and so am able to crawl up out of my proverbial hole a little faster. It is my hope that with this article you will have a clear enough map to navigate through your jungle of emotional clearing and find your way of your own emotional holes.
[Note:- For further insights on this subject I recommend Jelaila Starr’s related article ‘Let’s Get Real about Ascension! Part 1,’ 27 January 2000, www.nibiruancouncil.com/html/realaboutascension1article.html].
*For more information on working with your Inner Child:
“The Soul/Ego/Self Partnership” the 3rd Key of Compassion.
**For more information on creating Agreements with your Inner Child:
and “The Open Door” the 4th Key of Compassion.
***For more information on integrating and embracing the Dark polarity:
Dancing with the Dark ” the 6th Key of Compassion.
About the author
Nicole is a gifted clairvoyant whose abilities enable her to access information on both a galactic and spiritual level. For starseeds and walk -ins this is a godsend since discovering their identity and identifying their missions involves both. As a galactic counselor, Nicole assists individuals to see beyond the illusions and beliefs that hold them back so that they can free themselves to fulfill the divine purpose for which they came. Nicole can be reached at (256) 881-1697. Email: [email protected].
By Hermann Hesse (1918)
Last night I had a lot of dreams without being able to remember any of them clearly. All I am sure of is that the context and feeling of these dreams ran in two directions: some were concerned exclusively with all sorts of sorrow that befell me – the others with longing and striving to overcome this sorrow through complete understanding, through holiness.
Thus between suffering and contemplation, between despair and profoundest effort, my thoughts, wishes and fantasies lashed themselves for hours against narrow walls, to the point of excruciating exhaustion, and at times were transformed into half-obscure bodily feelings: precisely circumscribed, most clearly differentiated states of sorrow, misery and weariness of heart presented themselves palpably in pictures and harmonies, and at the same time from another region of the soul emerged impulses of greater spiritual vigour. Admonitions to be patient, to fight, to persevere on the road that has no end. A sob here was matched by a courageous forward stride there; a feeling of torment on one level was answered on another level by an exhortation, an urge, a self-realisation. If there is any sense at all in dwelling on such experiences, bending attentively over the depths and abysses one bears within oneself, then this sense can only be disclosed if we try to follow the impulses of our souls as faithfully and accurately as possible – much further and much deeper than words can reach. Whoever tries to make a record of this does so with the same feeling one would have in attempting to discuss delicate and difficult personal matters in a foreign language of which one had but a smattering.
And so my condition and radius of experience was this: on the one hand endurance of great sorrow, on the other a conscious striving to master this sorrow, to achieve complete harmony with fate. This was approximately the judgement of my consciousness or, rather, a first voice audible within my consciousness. A second voice, fainter, but deeper and more resonant, put the matter differently. This voice (which like the first one I heard clearly but far off in my sleep and dream) did not call the suffering wrong and my vigorous mental struggle for perfection right, but rather meted out right and wrong to both sides. This second voice sang of the sweetness of suffering, it sang of its necessity, it had no interest in mastering or eliminating it but only in deepening and illuminating it.
The first voice, roughly translated into words, said something like this: ‘Suffering is suffering, there’s no argument about that. It hurts. It is painful. But there are forces that can overcome it. Well then, seek out those forces, cultivate them, put them to work, calm yourself by them! You would be a fool and a weakling to want to go on suffering and suffering forever.’
But the second voice said something like this: ‘Suffering only hurts because you fear it. Suffering only hurts because you complain about it. It pursues you only because you flee from it. You must not flee, you must not complain, you must not fear. You must love. You know all this yourself, you know quite well, deep within you, that there is only a single magic, a single power, a single salvation and a single happiness, and that is called loving. Well then, love your suffering. Do not resist it, do not flee from it. Taste how sweet it is in its essence, give yourself to it, do not meet it with aversion. It is only your aversion that hurts, nothing else. Sorrow is not sorrow, death is not death if you do not make them so! Suffering is magnificent music – the moment you give ear to it. But you never listen to it; you always have a different, private, stubborn music and melody in your ear which you will not relinquish and with which the music of suffering will not harmonise. Listen to me! Listen to me, and remember: suffering is nothing, suffering is illusion. Only you yourself create it, only you cause yourself pain!’
And so in addition to the suffering and the will to escape, there were also constant conflict and tension between the two voices. The first, the one closer to consciousness, had much to say for itself. To the dim realm of the unconscious it opposed its own clarity. On its side it had the authorities, Moses and the Prophets, father and mother, the school, Kant and Fichte. The second voice sounded farther off, as though emerging from the unconscious and from suffering itself. It did not create a safe island in the midst of chaos, it did not throw light into the darkness. It was itself dark, it was itself primal cause.
It is impossible now to describe how the two voices developed in concert. Each of the two original voices in fact divided, and each new secondary voice divided again but not as to constitute two choruses standing opposite to each other, as for instance a brighter and darker, a higher and lower, a male and female, or whatever. No, rather each new voice contained something of both dominant voices, echoes of chaos and echoes of the formative will, day and night, male and female in new and unique combination. Each voice always had the diametrically opposed character to the voice whose child and offspring it seemed to be. A new secondary voice springing from the chaotic mother voice always sounded manlier and clearer, more purposeful, cooler, more sharply defined – and vice versa. But each was a mixture, each had been created out of yearning for the other principle.
Thus a polyphony and multiplicity emerged in which it seemed to me the whole world together with all its millions of possibilities was contained. Each possibility was contained. Each possibility was counterbalanced by its opposite; the whole world seemed to be running its course in my dreaming soul to the accompaniment of constant muted pain. There were power and drive in its career, but also much friction, restraint and agonising limitation. The world revolved, it revolved beautifully and passionately, but the axle groaned and smoked.
As I have said, I know nothing more about what I dreamed. The notes have disappeared, only the signature of the melodies and voices is recorded in my memory. All I know is I endured much that was bad, and at every new pain the valiant concept of freedom and redemption was kindled afresh. So here was presented an eternal process, a round of impulse and acceptance, of creation and endurance, of action and suffering – without end.
In witnessing this I was in distress. The whole had more the flavour of sorrow than of joy, and where the dream states took on bodily feelings, these were painful; my head ached. I was dizzy and faint.
Manifold were the events that befell me and to each new experience or sorrow a new voice gave answer, and on each assault followed an inner exhortation. Examples emerged, among them I saw the Staretz Zossima of The Brothers Karamazov appear as model and teacher. But that primeval maternal voice, eternal and constantly reformed, dissented each time or, rather, it did not dissent but gave me the feeling of a beloved being turning away from me and shaking her head in silence.
‘Accept no examples!’ this voice seemed to say. ‘Examples do not exist, they are something you simply make up for yourself out of pretence. To imitate examples is flummery. Right action comes of itself. Just suffer, my son, just suffer and drain the cup to the dregs! The harder you try to avoid it the bitterer the drink will be. The coward drinks his fate like poison or medicine, you must drink yours like wine and fire. Then it will taste sweet.
But it tasted bitter and all night long the wheel of the world rolled on, groaning and smoking on its axle. On the one hand was blind nature, on the other the seeing spirit – but the seeing spirit kept transforming itself into blind, dead, sterile things: into morality, into philosophy, into formulas; and blind nature kept constantly opening an eye here or there, a marvellous, moist soul eye, shy and bright. Nothing remained true to its name. Nothing remained true to its essence. Everything was ‘just’ names, everything was ‘just’ essence and, behind it all, life’s sanctuary and the mystery of vocation receded farther and farther into new, more distant, more frightening mirror depths. So would my world roll on smoking, as long as the axle held.
When I awoke the night was almost past. I did not look at the clock – I was not wide awake enough for that – but for a short time I kept my eyes open and saw the pale morning light falling on the window sill, on the chair and on my clothes. The arm of my shirt hanging loose and somewhat twisted challenged my pictorial imagination – nothing in the world is more fruitful and stimulating to our souls than twilight – a wavering spot of white in the darkness, a dissolving system of gray and black shadows against a misty background.
But I did not respond to the challenge of turning the dangling white form into a whirl of dancing girls, circling nebulas, snowy summits or holy statues. I still lay under the spell of the long dream sequence and my consciousness did no more than register the fact that I hoped I could fall asleep again. Rain drummed softly on the roof and on the window sill. Sadness, pain and emptiness filled me; in flight I closed my eyes and crept back into the region of sleep and dreams.
However, I did not fully recover those dreams. I remained in a tenuous, fragile half sleep where I felt neither weariness nor pain. And now I had another experience, something like dream and yet not a dream, something like thought and yet not thinking, something like a vision, something like a momentary flooding of the unconscious with the bright beams of consciousness.
In my light morning half sleep I encountered a holy man. Half the time it seemed as if I myself were the holy man, thought his thoughts, had his feelings; and half the time I saw him as another person, separate form me, but penetrated by my understanding and most intimately known. It was as though I saw him and it was also as though I heard or read about him. It was as though I were telling myself about this holy man and as though he were telling me about himself; or as if he were living out something before my eyes that I experienced as my very own.
The holy man – no matter whether he was or whoever – the holy man suffered a great sorrow. But I cannot write about this as though it had happened to anyone but myself, I experienced and felt it. I felt that my most precious thing had been taken from me, my children had died or were at that moment dying before my eyes. And they were not only my real, physical children with their eyes and foreheads, their little hands and voices – they were also my spiritual children and possessions that I saw there dying and deserting me, they were my very own most personal dearest thoughts and poems, they were my art, my thinking, the delight of my eyes and my life. More than this could not be taken from me. Nothing more grievous, more horrible could happen than that these dear eyes should grow dim and no longer know me, that these dear lips should no longer breathe.
This I experienced – or the holy man did. He closed his eyes and smiled, and in this mild smile there was all the suffering that can in any way be conceived, there was the admission of every weakness, every love, every vulnerability.
But it was beautiful and tranquil, this faint smile of pain, and it remained unchanged and beautiful on his countenance. Thus a tree looks in the autumn when the last golden leaves flutter down, thus the old earth will look when its remaining life disappears in ice or fire. It was pain, it was sorrow, deepest sorrow – but there was no resistance, no denial. It was agreement, resignation, obedience, it was knowledge and acquiescence. The holy man sacrificed and praised the sacrifice. He suffered and he smiled. He did not harden his heart and yet he survived, for he was immortal. He accepted joy and love and gave them away, gave them back – but not to a stranger, rather to the fate that was his own. As a thought subsides into memory and a gesture sinks into rest, so the holy man’s children and all the possessions of his love subsided, faded away in pain – not lost, but gathered into his own inner depths. They had disappeared, not been killed. They were transformed, not destroyed. They had gone back into the depths, into the inside of the world and the inside of the sufferer. They had been life and had become symbols, in the way that everything is a symbol and at some time perishes in pain in order that, as a new symbol, it may wear a different dress.
From My Belief: Essays on Life and Art by Hermann Hesse
Triad/Panther Books 1976, p.52-58
A Meal at Milliways
“Ford staggered back to the table where Zaphod, Arthur and Trillian are sitting waiting for the fun to begin.
‘Gotta have some food,’ said Ford.
...The waiter approached.
‘Would you like to see the menu?’ he said, ‘or would you like to meet the Dish of the Day?’”
A large dairy animal approached Zaphod Beeblebrox’s table, a large fat meaty quadruped of the bovine type with large watery eyes, small horns and what might almost have been an ingratiating smile on its lips. ‘Good evening’, it lowed and sat back heavily on its haunches, ‘I am the main Dish of the Day. May I interest you in the parts of my body?’
It harrumphed and gurgled a bit, wriggled its hind quarters in to a more comfortable position and gazed peacefully at them. Its gaze was met by looks of startled bewilderment from Arthur and Trillian, a resigned shrug from Ford Prefect and naked hunger from Zaphod Beeblebrox.
‘Something off the shoulder perhaps?’ suggested the animal, ‘Braised in a white wine sauce?’ ‘Er, your shoulder?’ said Arthur in a horrified whisper. ‘But naturally my shoulder, sir,’ mooed the animal contentedly, ‘nobody else’s is mine to offer.’
Zaphod leapt to his feet and started prodding and feeling the animal’s shoulder appreciatively. ‘Or the rump is very good,’ murmured the animal. ‘I’ve been exercising it and eating plenty of grain, so there’s a lot of good meat there.’
It gave a mellow grunt, gurgled again and started to chew the cud. It swallowed the cud again. ‘Or a casserole of me perhaps?’ it added. ‘You mean this animal actually wants us to eat it?’ whispered Trillian to Ford. ‘Me?’ said Ford, with a glazed look in his eyes, ‘I don’t mean anything.
‘That’s absolutely horrible,’ exclaimed Arthur, ‘the most revolting thing I’ve ever heard.’ ‘What’s the problem Earthman?’ said Zaphod, now transferring his attention to the animal’s enormous rump. ‘I just don’t want to eat an animal that’s standing there inviting me to,’ said Arthur, ‘It’s heartless.’
‘Better than eating an animal that doesn’t want to be eaten,’ said Zaphod. ‘That’s not the point,’ Arthur protested. Then he thought about it for a moment. ‘Alright,’ he said, ‘maybe it is the point. I don’t care, I’m not going to think about it now. I’ll just...er...I think I’ll just have a green salad,’ he muttered. ‘May I urge you to consider my liver?’ asked the animal, ‘it must be very rich and tender by now, I’ve been force-feeding myself for months.’
‘A green salad,’ said Arthur emphatically. ‘A green salad?’ said the animal, rolling his eyes disapprovingly at Arthur. ‘Are you going to tell me,’ said Arthur, ‘that I shouldn’t have green salad?’ ‘Well,’ said the animal, ‘I know many vegetables that are very clear on that point. Which is why it was eventually decided to cut through the whole tangled problem and breed an animal that actually wanted to be eaten and was capable of saying so clearly and distinctly. And here I am.’ It managed a very slight bow.
‘Glass of water please,’ said Arthur. ‘Look,’ said Zaphod, ‘we want to eat, we don’t want to make a meal of the issues. Four rare stakes please, and hurry. We haven’t eaten in five hundred and seventy-six thousand million years.’
-The Restaurant at the End of the Universe, Chapter 17, by Douglas Adams (William Heinemann, London, U.K., 1980). |
Just like pneumonia in people, pneumonia in dogs is a serious health condition and can be life-threatening.
Canine pneumonia seldom occurs to healthy dogs with a strong immune system.
So which dogs are at higher risk of getting pneumonia?
They are usually:
- Older dogs,
- Young puppies,
- Dogs whose immune systems are weakened by pre-existing health problems, or
- Dogs with weakened immunity because of chemotherapy or corticosteroid therapy.
What Causes Canine Pneumonia?
Common causes of pneumonia include:
Bacterial pneumonia in young puppies is commonly caused by kennel cough.
Dogs can also develop bacterial pneumonia if they have:
- Chronic bronchitis,
- Collapsing trachea, or
- Foreign bodies in the lower airway.
Dogs get fungal infections by inhaling the spores. About 50% of infected dogs will show respiratory problems such as coughing. Pneumonia can occur secondary to the infections.
Internal parasites such as lungworms and heartworms can cause parasitic pneumonia.
An allergen or irritant can trigger allergic pneumonia. This causes excessive inflammatory cells to infiltrate the lungs. This can result in pneumonia.
Inhaling smoke can cause chemical pneumonia. So can ingesting some chemical substances, such as gasoline or kerosene.
Aspiration of Liquid
Aspiration pneumonia is caused by liquid entering into the lung. This occurs rather frequently in dogs with cleft palates or mega-esophagus.
Sometimes, during general anesthesia or vomiting, stomach contents may get into the lungs. This can also lead to aspiration pneumonia.
Symptoms of Canine Pneumonia
One classic symptom of canine pneumonia is a moist, bubbling cough, indicating fluid in the lungs.
Dogs with pneumonia also show the following symptoms:
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid pulse
- Appetite loss
- Nasal discharge that is thick with mucus
Dogs with severe pneumonia are unable to get enough oxygen into their lungs. As a result, they often sit with their head extended and their elbows turned out. This allows for greater expansion of the chest.
Treatment of Canine Pneumonia
Treatment of canine pneumonia depends on how serious the disease is.
Dogs with pneumonia but with light symptoms can be treated at home. Usually the vet will prescribe medications such as antibiotics for bacterial infection.
The dog should continue to take antibiotics for at least three weeks. Usually, the vet would suggest weekly chest x-rays to make sure the condition is improving.
Even though the dog may have a nasty cough, try not to use cough suppressants because coughing is actually helpful for the dog. It can clear the airway by bringing up the mucus and pus and facilitate breathing.
For dogs with fever and signs of respiratory infection, they need hospitalization and urgent veterinary care. Treatment may include the use of antibiotics and intravenous fluid.
Home Care for Canine Pneumonia
Besides prescribed medication, you can do several things at home to make your dog more comfortable if he has pneumonia.
For example, you may consider using some of the following home remedies:
Unlike cough suppressants, cough expectorants do not suppress the cough reflex. They help to liquefy mucus secretions so that they can be coughed up more easily.
Cough medicine that contains an expectorant called guaifenesin is available over the counter (e.g. Children’s Robitussin). It is safe for use on dogs for all coughs. Recommended dosage is one teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight every 4 hours.
Alternatively, try giving raw honey or manuka honey, to your dog. Honey has powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties and is soothing to the throat. If you choose to give manuka honey, be sure to get one with an UMF 15 or more.
Vitamin C / Echinacea
Vitamin C boosts your dog’s immune system so he can recover faster from diseases such as infections. Try giving your dog a daily dose of vitamin C.
Dosage is 500 mg for bigger dogs and 250 mg for smaller dogs. You can also use an herbal tincture of echinacea to help boost immunity of your dog.
Use a vaporizer for 10 to 15 minute intervals several times daily to soothe and moisten the dog’s airway. If you have essential oils, adding a few drops to the vaporizer can help ease the cough as well.
Essential oils of lavender, eucalyptus, and niaouli are antibacterial and antiviral. Chamomile essential oil has a calming effect.
Percussion therapy is a technique that you can use to help break up and mobilize secretions deep in the dog’s lungs.
To do this, cup your hands and gently but rapidly tap your dog’s chest wall repeatedly. This loosens the secretions deep in the lungs and helps them move into the airways. The secretions can then be eliminated through coughing.
You can do this about 4 times a day. Here is a video showing you how to do percussion on your dog: |
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Hyacinths — a spring bulb flower with a lot to offer
Dutch hybrid hyacinths, actually a member of the lily family, grace many gardens with their spikes of dense, bell-shaped florets and are available in numerous colors which enables them to blend well with nearly any garden display. But what has always attracted me to this flower is its wonderful aroma. I remember well beds of this flower in my great grandmother’s yard who lived just two doors down from my parental home. When these flowers were in bloom, I never missed a day visiting their beds to “drink in” that sweet, wonderful smell. So keep these two attributes in mind when you choose a site for planting.
Hyacinths can dazzle whether they are planted in carefully planned patterns in a formal setting or whether they are grouped in scattered, random clusters in a more informal garden. Here in the south, where informal gardens are generally more common than formal ones, it’s a customary practice to use clusters of one or two dozen in and around low growing evergreen plants, in the foreground of a border of perennial flowers or interplanted with other spring flowering bulbs … often in an attractive rock garden. Yet another way to display them is in drifts in staggered rows along a wall, fence or dense hedge.
And remember the special smell that I mentioned above? Well, take advantage of their wonderful fragrance by planting patches of them near your front entrance, near an often used patio, surrounding a back yard gazebo or under frequently opened windows so that you can enjoy that haunting aroma throughout their full season of bloom.
END-OF-SEASON BARGAINS: How to shop
While hyacinths possess a natural beauty of their own, this can be enhanced by interplanting them with other spring flowers such as tulips, daffodils, other narcissi and muscari (grape hyacinth). One suggestion from a reputable horticultural firm is to use red, blue or lavender hyacinths to contrast with clusters of cream-colored daffodils.
Over the years, professional Dutch hybridizers have developed such a wide range of colors that you can create color combinations that not only will please you personally, but will elicit praise from many others who see your completed masterpiece. While I don’t know what varieties (and therefore, colors) are stocked by local vendors, it’s still not too late to order the exact varieties you desire from reputable horticultural companies.
Like tulips, hyacinths grow from bulbs that are easy to plant and don’t require a lot of maintenance. Although they are perennials and expected to bloom every year, here in the deep south they are not as reliable in this capacity as when grown in cooler parts of our country. Bulb authorities recommend that bulbs should not be planted in the fall until soil temperatures have fallen below 60 degrees. At our latitude that means planting should not be done until mid-November or a bit later.
Sun-wise, the best site for planting hyacinths is an area in partial shade; avoid full sun areas if at all possible. As with most bulbs, good drainage is essential and make sure they receive plenty of oxygen in the root zone by breaking up the soil to a 10-12 inch depth. If you have heavy clay soil, mix in generous amounts of organic amendments such as peat moss or compost.
Recommended planting depth is around 4-6 inches so the top of the plant is covered by at least 2-3 inches of soil. Locate bulbs about 6 inches apart. Water when part of the bulb is covered and repeat when all the soil has been used. Top-dress the whole bed with 2-3 inches of an organic material to finish the project. Keep the soil moist if dry spells linger.
Joe W. White is a retired Extension horticulturist with the LSU AgCenter. Email him at [email protected]. |
Brooklyn Baby Cakes was born out of a curiosity in baking and a desire to eat and share with my family, delicious homemade treats whenever I wanted. With little to no baking experience, what started out as an experiment eventually evolved into a passion. I baked my very first cake; a red velvet cake, back in 2007 with a very pregnant belly and craving of course something sweet. From then on I was hooked and so was my family and friends. I can’t count the amount of red velvet cakes that cake out of my home oven. That cake now remains the most requested flavor and is still the #1 seller in the shop. But of course, I could not just stop at one flavor. After much eaten cake and using my family, my number one fans as critics and loyal taste testers, I am glad to be able to share these delicious, moist and uniquely flavored cake creations with you.
These days, we start every day with the purest of ingredients, from 100% Madagascar bourbon vanilla, dark rich cocoa, seasonal fruits, exotic spices and the freshest dairy and eggs we can find. We bake everything from scratch, all day long, in small throughout the day to ensure you get your cakes and cupcakes as fresh as possible. Our delectable treats are always free from preservatives, artificial flavorings and trans fats. Come in and try something with a cup of cold milk or a cup of fair trade organic hot or iced coffee sourced from a local roaster.
Myriam aka “The Cake Lady” |
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Wow. It has been a long time since I last posted something. I've been very busy with finals and studying. Now though, I hope I'll have a bit more free time.
Right now we are stuck in a pattern of storms coming to our south and us getting the fringe effects of them. While central California will get a lot of rain, we will not get much, and we will continue to remain a couple degrees above average. This Janu,ary will be the warmest on record, with an average temperature of 47 degrees (combined high and low). The average temperature for the month is usually around 40 degrees, so we were wayyy above normal for the month. Of course, some people are rejoicing, but I'm pretty frustrated cause there is hardly any snow in the mountains and models do not show any in the future. Thankfully, they don't show any huge pineapple express events either.
There are no notable weather events shown in the models for a longgg time. I'll let you know when something shows up.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Hey guys. So as I'm sure you noticed, we were very warm today. The high at Komo's downtown TV station was 60 today, and the low was a balmy 52. Even though the jet stream has gone to our south, we are still under the influence of a warm, moist air mass originating from further south. The weather in Southern California has been extremely severe. Los Angeles had a tornado warning and flooding over Long Beach, while the coast saw winds up to 80 miles per hour. I'm actually not surprised one bit that they did get a tornado; events like these are actually fairly common in the storms that hit Southern California. They have much more of a tropical element to them and they can be much more intense than a lot of our Pacific Northwest storms (at least in my opinion). They don't exist as often as ours do though, and usually they only occur on El Nino years. But they can be very powerful.
I'm sorry I really have to and study for my three huge tests tomorrow (and NONE of them are finals! That's next week.). Once the semester is over I'll have more free time to update the blog.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Hey everybody. Just a brief update now... I have to catch the bus soon... but we saw some pretty heavy rain amounts here as a Pineapple Express was stalled over the area. Amounts of an inch, higher south, were common in the Puget Sound area, while places in the Olympics received 5 inches and I wouldn't be surprised if some mountainous locales on the southwestern slopes got over a foot of rain. Of course, with high freezing levels (around 6000 feet), it is pretty much all falling as rain in the mountains, and this is sending many rivers over their banks. The Skokomish River has a Flood Warning on it for minor flooding until early Wednesday morning.
What does our extended look like? Unfortunately for skiers, continued warm. It won't be as wet, however. Thursday will be nice, and rain will return Friday and for the weekend, though it won't be as heavy, and I don't think the air temperatures will be quite as warm.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Hello everybody. The models today have been showing some interesting stuff in the long run. And although the job of meteorologists is exactly to NOT do what I am doing now - hyping up predictions in the computer models - I'm going to do it anyway because it's fun and I always like to have a record of possible predicted storms for our region and ask myself the question, "what if"?
First, let's go over the general weather pattern predicted for the rest of this week into early next week. A ridge of high pressure is currently over us and will stay parked over us for two whole days, giving us dry conditions and normal temperatures, what most people would call "good weather." Thursday may be a bit chillier than average however, as the ridge is centered over British Columbia and will direct some chilly (but not cold) air into our region.
Later Friday into Saturday, a weak system will arrive, but this won't have much affect on the area besides a few periods of light rain and some clouds. By Sunday, high pressure will rebuild in the wake of the cold front, but it won't be strong enough to keep all the clouds away. It will dry us out temporarily though.
Later Sunday night into Monday marks the beginning of a series of storm systems beginning to hit the West Coast. These storms look to have a slightly subtropical origin, so they will have heavy rain and above average temperatures. At this point, the temperatures and freezing levels don't look to be rediculously high (upper 40s in the lowlands and 4000-5000 feet in the mountains, except at the surface in the passes due to a cool easterly flow in them from cold air entrenched east of the Cascades), but flooding could still occur on some rivers, particularly the Skokomish, the most flood-prone river in the Pacific Northwest.
This image shows the predicted 24 hour precipitation from 4 P.M. Sunday to 4 P.M. Monday. The most intense precipitation is centered on Vancouver Island but we look to get pretty wet too, especially if the storm comes in further south than expected. We could also be quite blustery, especially on the coast, as the storm center is predicted to be around 969 millibars as of right now in the computer models and that is more than enough to set the winds howling to storm force at places like Tatoosh Island off of Cape Flattery. The duration of the rain will also be long, lasting from late Sunday to early Tuesday in many places.
I really hope this prediction comes true! El Nino winters can be boring but they can often bring "atmospheric river" or "pineapple express" events, even though this looks to be like a weak one at this time. Have a great day, and thanks for reading! You guys are awesome!
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
This is the current jet stream over the Pacific and western North America. Notice how there is a large circle in the middle of the screen, above where the jet stream winds turn purple. That is a low pressure system. Then, look by the Pacific Northwest. High pressure is dominating the area, forcing the jet stream, now considerably weakened, to split into two and go north and south. Even though California and Canada seem to be spared of active weather as well with this particular scenario, they often get hammered while the Pacific Northwest stays dry. It's that type of weather that makes me resentful and jealous, and the only good thing about El Ninos is that they reduce upwelling off of our coast, bringing in tuna that I can fish for in the summer. But I dislike everything else about it. |
Interview With Dr. Marci Koski
Lorien Clemens: Happy Caturday, Pet Lovers! We have quite the show planned for you today, and if you’ll excuse me, we are gonna get pretty dirty around here with potty talk. Yup, you heard me right! Today is all about new products that can help us manage the pee and the poo that our fur kids produce; and depending on the size and number of fur kids that you might have in your house, that could be a lot of pee and a lot of poo! In fact, in our house, we have four fur kids – two dogs and two cats, and we’re gonna cover products for both species today. First up though, we’re gonna talk about the cats. Frankly, in my opinion, it’s the kitty issues that are the most troublesome. I hate going into our house and smelling a litter box, I really don’t like it in my home. I mean, the cat’s bathroom is in your house and so, controlling that smell, that’s in the litter box, is a big big deal and there’s a lot of things that are “scented litter” and that type of thing. But frankly, until just a few years ago, our cat’s litter box was in the corner of the utility room, as far away from the living space as possible. But now, we’ve been able to move our box into a warmer, more central place, that’s easier for the cats to access and that’s one of the products we’re gonna be talking about today with Marci Koski. Marci, you might remember from a previous episode about geeky gifts — she’s from Feline Behavior Solutions, she’s a cat expert, we just adore her. So happy to have you back on the show, Marci!
Marci Koski: Hi Lorien. Thanks for having me.
Lorien Clemens: And I know, you told me that you could talk about litter boxes for days.
Marci Koski: For days!
Lorien Clemens: For days! [both smile]. So, we’re gonna get you talking just about — just for a couple of minutes about them. So, I want you to jump on into this list, and I was excited because the litter box that I just mentioned, that has moved to a central place in our home, is the first one on your list, the Litter Robot. Tell everybody about it.
Marci Koski: Okay, so the Litter Robot is an automated litter box and you’re — I know you’re thinking like, “Whaaat? Automated litter box? That’s amazing!” Well, these — I actually have a couple of automatic litter boxes on my list. Um, the Litter Robot has been out for a few years, like Lorien said, and basically it looks very kind of space-agie, there’s like a large…
Lorien Clemens: It’s one of the reasons we love it. [both smile]
Marci Koski: Yeah, there’s like kind of a large globe on the top of the little box that it sits on and your cat goes into the globe and does her little kitty thing and then comes out. And what happens is, um…alright so you just put clumping cat litter into the globe or the litter tray, but when the cat comes out, what happens is the globe kind of rotates and the clumps get retained in little tray and the rest of the litter sifts out and then the globe rotates back and the solid waste, so all the poops and the clumps of cat pee, get put into a litter, litter, like, receptacle type of thing. And then you just empty that out, you put a cat like, a liner, in it or a little trash bag and all you do is just take out that bag, like, once a week more or less, depending on how many cats you have.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah. We love ours, by the way. It’s made a huge difference in our lives.
Marci Koski: Yeah. So there are several models, there’s the open-air bubble and kind of a classic, which I think is a little bit smaller, what do you have?
Lorien Clemens: We actually started with the classic, we actually did some testing with Litter Robot, with the classic, and then we moved over to the open air one, uh and, uh, so, and it’s been cool because we’ve been able to give feedback from the company, the company’s really responsive about feedback, which is another thing that we really love. And our cats, at least, love it. I could imagine though that this might be a little scary for some cats.
Marci Koski: Yeah.
Lorien Clemens: Ours love it, but some cats I think might be a little spooked by this thing.
Marci Koski: Yeah, and what they did was they put a timer on it, so, um, any cat, I think, over 5 pounds it’s safe for cats to use. So, if your cat weighs 5 pounds or more, the Litter Robot detects when your cat has left the box and it waits for 7 minutes. So, your cat’s not gonna be sitting there, doing her business and then all of a sudden the globe starts spinning [smiles] that would be terrifying…
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, that would be tragic! [both smile]
Marci Koski: Your cat is not going back into that box.
Lorien Clemens: No. So we love it, I would highly recommend it, but it’s pricey, I mean, it’s 300 dollars or more to get it, but I — for us at least it’s worth it. We don’t have a smell issue anymore. Let’s jump, we’ve got a lot to cover here, so let’s jump on to the next one, the new sifting litter box out of the UK that you mentioned here.
Marci Koski: Okay, so there’s something called a Smart Kitty and this is out of the UK, and there’s not a whole lot of information available on it right now, but let me tell you, it looks cute. Um, [smiles], when automatic litter boxes first started coming out, they were these sifting litter boxes, so they would have like kind of a rake that goes over the litter box and I think that this is gonna be very similar. But this one has like a little fabric tent covering it and you can get the tent in all kinds of cute fabrics.
Lorien Clemens: So sassy. Some of these designs are adorable!
Marci Koski: I know. So, I don’t know how well it’s gonna work and I don’t know when it is coming out, you can sign up for their newsletter, um, if you go to the Smart Kitty website. Um, so that’s something to keep an eye on. Um so, but, I don’t really know too much about it other than that it’s cute.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, it is really cute. So I — we’ll keep our eye on this and as we learn more about it, maybe at the upcoming tech shows, we’ll be able to talk more about it. Talk to me about the CatGenie, you know, this got great reviews on Amazon and I’ve never heard of it before. Tell me about that.
Marci Koski: Okay, now this is something that I have seen in several of my clients’ homes and they love it. So, the CatGenie is actually — it looks like a toilet for your cat, I mean. Okay, so, let me just say right up front, do not train your cat to use the human toilet, that is bad. And that’s an entirely different topic, but…
Lorien Clemens: [smiles]
Marci Koski: the CatGenie — you actually set up right next to the toilet, because you hook the CatGenie up to your plumbing and it’s super easy — the plumbing just comes with like a — it’s like a little T valve and you just hook it up on to your water where the toilet comes out, the toilet water for fresh toilet water.
Lorien Clemens: M-hm.
Marci Koski: And then the effluent from the CatGenie just goes — you take it –there’s a tube that comes out of the CatGenie and you just hook it over your toilet bowl and so it basically hooks up to your toilet. Or you can do it in your laundry room, which I’ve also seen. But what happens is your cat sits in this litter box, it’s got like a round bowl and the bowl has these, um, these — they call them granules, they are washable granules, so they don’t disappear, they’re permanent. And the liquid, the urine, filters through the washable granules and cat poop sits on top and then your cat leaves the box — and it comes with or without a hood, but I recommend no hood. And then after a few minutes, what happens is the — there’s a little scoop, and the scoop, the bowl kind of rotates and the scoop takes out the solids, so the poop, because the urine has filtered down through the washable granules and the poop gets put into [smiles] this tub and it gets liquefied, all the solids get liquefied. Um, and then there’s a SaniSolution cartridge that uses water, remember we hooked it up to the water, um, and it mixes with the SaniSolution and all the granules get washed. And then there’s a blow-dryer and it dries the crystals or the — I’m sorry, the granules and you have, at the very end, a totally clean litter box that has been washed and dried.
Lorien Clemens: Wow! Um, how long does that take, I mean, how long does that cycle take?
Marci Koski: I’m not sure, I know that you can program the box to do, like, automatic cleanings 4 times a day…
Lorien Clemens: M-hm.
Marci Koski: Or you can program it to, um, clean like a few minutes after your cat has left the box, but I’m not sure how long the actual cycle takes. What I would recommend is that, obviously, if you were gonna get one of these, program it to clean after your cat leaves the — the box, because if you’re — if you just have set programmed times throughout the day, if your cat’s on the box and then it starts cleaning, your cat’s gonna freak out.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, that would be bad, that would be bad. Okay, um, so let’s — that’s a really cool — I’m actually gonna check that out a little bit more. It’s also a 300+ product, but it looks really awesome.
Marci Koski: Yeah.
Lorien Clemens: Um, this is actually the one that was on your list that I am most curious about.
Marci Koski: Yeah.
Lorien Clemens: Tell me about Pretty Litter, it’s this color — this litter that changes color, tell me why that’s cool?
Marci Koski: Okay, so, let me just say, the one thing that I really, um, don’t like about automatic litter boxes is that you are missing out on detecting health problems with your cat. So, you don’t see the litter or touch it, you know, so you don’t know if your cat is having diarrhea or, um, maybe they are going to the — they are urinating more or less frequency — with more or less frequency. The Pretty Litter, actually changes color depending on the alkalinity or acidity of your cat’s urine or if there’s blood in it. Um, so it can actually detect potential health problems, way before your cat starts exhibiting symptoms, um, which can be literally a life-saver. So, your cat’s liter changes color, normally it’s yellow, ‘cause the litter itself is white…
Lorien Clemens: M-hm.
Marci Koski: …normal urine will be yellow, but it will change either green or blue or orange or red, depending on different issues that are happening with your cat.
Lorien Clemens: Hm, could you use that with it, could you use that with one of the automatic litter boxes? So, you’d still be seeing…
Marci Koski: I was thinking about that, I was thinking that you might be, you might be able to use it with the Litter Robot, it’s very fine grained, so I don’t know if that would maybe be a problem with it. But I was actually thinking about that, you could not use it with the CatGenie, because the CatGenie uses this, you know, the distinct granules, the washable granules…
Lorien Clemens: Right, they get washed, yeah.
Marci Koski: Right.
Lorien Clemens: that’s a — I — that fascinates me. I saw it at a couple I like, this last year, I guess, at Global Pet Expo and I was like, “What is that?!” But that’s really, that’s really cool. I actually, I wonder if like something along in the lines is also coming down the pike about the poo, you know, that can maybe detect issues there too, that would be really interesting too.
Marci Koski: Yeah.
Lorien Clemens: ‘Cause sometimes when you get back to the poo, it’s already been dried or whatever and you’re not really seeing the core issue. We have time for one quick — one more. Tell me about — is it Loo-Op, is that what it’s called?
Marci Koski: I think, I’ve always pronounced it the Luup litter box.
Lorien Clemens: Luup, okay, okay. Tell me about it, it’s pretty low tech, but it’s really clever.
Marci Koski: [smiles] I’m actually more of a traditionalist when it comes to litter boxes, so this works for me, because it seems like it’s really easy. So what it is, is a strain — it’s a litter box strainer essentially. Um, so, it’s a system of 3 liter box trays and each one has, um, like, they’re like a grill on the bottom. So what you do is, the litter boxes are stacked, there’s 3, and when you want to clean out the litter tray, you just pick up the top tray and sift, sift, sift, sift, sift. Your clumps stay in the tray, all of the clean litter has fallen through to the next 2 trays, right, um, and then you turn the –well you throw out the waste first, but then you take that top tray that you just emptied out, turn it 180o, so the grids no longer match up and then you put it on the bottom of the stack and you’re done.
Lorien Clemens: Mm?
Marci Koski: That’s it.
Lorien Clemens: So you’re not having to like re-pour and everything like that, it’s just a continual process of scoop…
Marci Koski: Exactly, you don’t need a litter box scooper, you don’t need, yeah, it just…
Lorien Clemens: That is pretty clever and it’s pretty affordable too. So that’s all we have time for today. Thank you so much, Marci.
Marci Koski: You are welcome.
Lorien Clemens: Great, great stuff. I’m gonna have you back to talk about more stuff later. Hopefully not as potty talk, but you know, it’s still fun, nonetheless. Next up folks, we are going to dig into doggie doo-doo and we are gonna chat with Tom Arnold, one of our favorite geeks about some really geeky products that are out there for scooping poop. Hang tight and we’ll be right back.
Interview With Tom Arnold
Lorien Clemens: Hi, we are back and we are deep in the doo-doo here at Pet Lover Geek. For those of us that have a dog, or more than one dog, a great deal of our time is spent bending over and scooping poop. Now, supposedly, according to some stuff I found on the internet, an average dog produces about ¾ of a pound a day of fecal matter, depending on size and that’s more than 250 pounds of poo every year. Oh my goodness! So, not only is that really unpleasant to pick up, if you’ve ever had to do that, you understand what I’m talking about, but the other thing is that it’s full of pathogens – things like giardia, salmonella, e-coli, even gross things like roundworms. And clearly, picking it up can be a delicate situation, there’s a lot of tools out there for helping us pick it up, you know, baggies and things like that. And we’re always looking for new technology that helps us have less direct contact, keeps us as far away from that yuckiness as possible! So, I’ve asked Tom Arnold, the Chief Technology Officer from PetHub.com and our show’s sponsor, to help me with this segment and I sent him a list of some of the hottest new products that are out there for managing dog poop and I’ve asked him to discuss them with us. Tom, welcome back to the show!
Tom Arnold: [smilingly] Hey, Lorien, thank you and thanks for allowing me to be a participant in this topic.
Lorien Clemens: [smiles] You’re welcome! I know that when I sent you the email and said, “Hey, you wanna talk about poop?” you were like, “Yeeeah, please”. Okay, so I sent you a list of a half-dozen or so dog bathroom products to check out and I wanna ask you which one’s your favorite?
Tom Arnold: Well, the Pooch Shovel actually was at the top of my list, it’s the one where — it actually has a plastic bag around everything, including the opening and then it’s got this vacuum thing that’s going on, that’s pulling everything in. But I specifically appreciated that they pointed out that the plastic bag is covering the opening and everything, so that it never gets on the device at all. So, I found that — I found that very helpful, because every time I’ve seen those, kind of, pick-up things like the little, like, reachy ones that — like a shovel that picks it up and you know, clamps it in. I always think about having to clean that thing later and so that’s one thing that caught my attention about that one.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, I thought that one was interesting too. As I’m — I’m you know, I obviously haven’t had the chance to test it yet, although it’s on my list of things to get in here to test. Um, it’s got a pretty decent motor on it and it says that it can quickly suction dog waste from grass, concrete, and even snow-covered ground, which, I know where you live, up in the mountains, would be really important. My concern is that there are some pretty harsh reviews on it. It seems like if you don’t load the baggie in exactly, it’s gonna give you trouble, which I could see how that could be an issue. It’s kind of like a ‘hit or miss’ type of thing, it’s a power issue for some people and a bag fitting issue for other people. But, it does look really, um, of all the scoopers that are out there that are power scoopers, it does look like the most promising, doesn’t it?
Tom Arnold: Yeah, and it’s not, it’s — I was thinking about it and I was like okay, it always comes down for me, “Is this something that I would use?”, and I heard in your intro that you were saying that dogs produce around ¾ of a pound per day and I was thinking, “Ullr can do that in one sitting” [smiles] and so…
Lorien Clemens: At least… [smiles]
Tom Arnold: And I was thinking to myself, “Okay”, but the other problem with these, or my concern about things like this, not just Pooch Shovel, but anyone in this area, is that I’m assuming that they’re thinking that you have a really nice kickable stool and all that and — as they put it, quote-unquote kickable, and this is certainly not kickable, not all the time. And so — but where I see that there’s huge value for this kind of thing is for people who can’t easily bend over to pick stuff like that up, or if you don’t want to deal with the ickiness of you know, feeling warm poop in your hand or even worse, cold poop in your hand… [smiles]
Lorien Clemens: Yeah.
Tom Arnold: I can see how they’d love something like this.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, and there’s a couple of others that were on the list. What did you think about some of the other, uh, like the do — Doody Digger Pooper Scooper. It doesn’t look very tack, but it’s more about design.
Tom Arnold: Well I appreciate the techy of the design, but, um, my reaction to it was — so this is one where it has no moving parts, this one actually has, on the upper part of it, near the handle where you’re holding it, it actually has the bag that attaches to the end of the tube and then down at the bottom of the tube, the working end that you’re using to dig around and, you know, kinda get the droppings into the end of the nozzle or the opening. Then you have to basically tilt it up, raising that end up, so that the poop slides down the shaft until it gets to the other end where the bag is. And of course, you know, I’m thinking about that, again, good for somebody who can’t bend over and things like that but it seems like it can get really gross really fast and I’d rather just use a shovel and a bucket in that case, um, otherwise — ‘cause like, with the shovel I could wipe that on the grass or something and this one, I kept thinking [smiles] it’s gonna leave little poopie skid marks going down the inside.
Lorien Clemens: [smiles] Yeah.
Tom Arnold: …and it’s just like, “Nasty, I have to deal with the cleaning of that thing later”, and for me, it’s all about having to deal with cleaning messes later, I’d rather deal with something right up front than to have to dread thinking about dealing with something later.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, well let’s talk about the dealing with it later, ‘cause no matter where you — what you use to pick up for the poop, there’s the getting rid of it and, you know, I’ve — we’ve — I don’t know if you’ve read some things in your local paper, but we’ve certainly seen some things about, you know, how not good it is to put it in the yard waste system or in the compost bins or anything like that that they pick up around Seattle. And so, you end up with a lot of poop in your garbage and so there were a couple of things here that I thought were really interesting – that the pet waste disposal systems we looked at, there’s the PetGenie and then there was also the Doggie Dooley, what did you think of those two?
Tom Arnold: Well I assumed that the PetGenie was similar to like a Diaper Genie, they’re kinda making a play off of that and the way I read it as I was understooding it — understanding it was that, um, it — one of the problems I always hate is that when I’m throwing a bag of dog poop into my trash can is that, as the week goes on, as I get closer to collection day, it gets progressively disgusting, [smiles] more and more disgusting, that smell coming out of the trash can outside, especially if it’s, you know, during warm weather. And so the PetGenie seemed like something where you can actually maybe have it — if you’re in a situation where you have closer quarters and you’re not able to keep your trash outside as much, it seemed like that was the, the perfect place to be able to have a contained, um, contain that smell. And so that was my take on — it — did I understand that correctly?
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, I think so and I actually — this one — I actually kinda think it’s cool.
Tom Arnold: Then I’d have to have one of those, I would have to have one, if I was in a closed space.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, I think so. I think this is perfect for, like, apartment dwellers, like you mentioned and if you don’t have a way to get rid of the waste anything other than putting it into the garbage, actually this is, I think, a really good one for it. I’m really impressed by it and it seems like it’s a fairly new product though, I don’t see many reviews out there for it, there’s something called the CatGenie that Marci just talked about and it’s the same company and that gets terrific reviews, so I would imagine that the tech is pretty solid, since it’s the same company as the cat toilet product that they mentioned, it’s really cool. I am particularly interested though, since, uh, I live a little bit more out of the city and I have a little bit of land, I‘m really interested in this Doggy Dooley Septic Tank System, because then I’m not having to put it in the garbage. What you’d think of that?
Tom Arnold: Well, I definitely love that, I love how it keeps the plastic bags from going into the trash can and I like how my garbage won’t stink to high heaven later in the week, ‘cause I mentioned, and how you just add water and this digester — digester mix, that kind of thing. So I thought that was pretty cool, better for the environment and all that and I thought it would be especially useful where you have a business or a family with a lot of dogs, but a doggy daycare things like that, that seems like that would make a lot of sense. For me personally, I’m in the same situation, I have a wooded area of 1 acres, so my dogs are, you know, going into the woods where the humans don’t tread, so I don’t have to worry about it, but — and when I’m out and about I’m using plastic bags. So, I’m not the audience for that one, but I could see, especially for businesses or large dog families and you have a yard to bury it in, then I’d love the concept of a septic tank for dogs, I thought that was pretty, pretty creative.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, and I too, most of the time I’m just putting it in a poo bag and I usually, because of where I live, I don’t have to go out, as you say, into the woods and look for those, just trying to take it off and stuff, well humans are, however, when I take the dog — when I take Penny on a walk or anything downtown and I always have the poo bags with me and what I was most interested in was, and frankly it’s the easiest of all the tech or the simplest of all the tech, it was this waste light bag holder. Did you see that I sent over to you?
Tom Arnold: I did. I like it because I’m always taking Ullr out at night with a flashlight and I even put an LED collar on him, so the way I look at it is usually I’m sitting there, I’m a late night guy, so it’s like midnight, 1 a.m. and I’m finally exhausted, ready to fall asleep and just about then is when I’m realizing, “Uhh, I have to take Ullr out for one last time, so he’s comfortable through the night or don’t wake me up at 3 o’clock in the morning”. And so it’s one less thing to worry about, I grab the flashlight and it’s already part of the flashlight and it’s one less thing to look for. Now, especially in an apartment setting and things like that and I don’t know if we’re gonna get time, I don’t mean to throw you off a little bit, but I wanna make sure you talk about the dog rocks, ‘cause I had a thought about those too, but I like the flashlight.
Lorien Clemens: Oh yeah, definitely, yeah I think that this flashlight — I like it for a couple of reasons. Number one, it’s super-duper small, it’s inexpensive, it fits onto your keychain or onto your pet’s leash, so I love it. But you mentioned the Dog Rocks. Now, this is switching gears a little bit, because it’s about pee issues, not poo issues. Tell me about these dog rocks.
Tom Arnold: Well I’ve seen these guys around SuperZoo, I’ve seen them in a lot of shows and the whole idea is that these rocks are to help the dog urine from killing the grass and, I mean, I hate how in the past, past yards that I’ve had, again, right now I’ve got a wooded area, but when I’ve been in a condo setting or a nice yard, I hate how it looks like a patchwork quilt of grassy death and so, you know, it’s really sad to see all these pee spots all over the place, so, I think that this would especially be helpful in apartments and condos and the like, because people are always trying to look one for the right place to pee in, and some people ignore those, those signs of where to pee. So, I’m not really sure how it works, I don’t know if it neutralizes the acidity or whatever it is that is killing the grass, or is it just giving them a target that they’re shooting at.
Lorien Clemens: No, I think it’s actually…
Tom Arnold: you know and if it is a target thing, I’ve got a garden gnome that I’d like to donate to the guys. [both laugh]
Lorien Clemens: No, it’s not a target thing. When I was reading into it and I know I just kinda threw this on you at the last minute to look at these things, but they’re actually, the rocks are something you put in your dog’s bowl and it — the ingredients that are in these rocks help, like you said, neutralize that acid that’s there. So, when they’re actually peeing out, they’re actually helping to fertilize the grass rather than kill it.
Tom Arnold: Oh my God. I was so way off on that, I thought it was something that they had to aim for and I thought I read it completely, so [both laugh] sorry about that.
Lorien Clemens: That’s hilarious.
Tom Arnold: Well that’s interesting.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, I actually have a couple of garden gnomes that could go there too. Awesome! Well thank you so much Tom for coming in and pinch-hitting for us with the doggy doo-doo stuff, I really appreciate it. Hang tight…
Tom Arnold: It was a pleasure, always happy to talk about poop. [both laugh] I love the Litter Robot, by the way. Anyway, sorry to interrupt.
Lorien Clemens: Yeah, you were the one that introduced us to the Litter Robot in the first place, so awesome. Hang tight everybody, next up, we’ve got a unique product that helps you tackle the tinkle to get urine and other things out of your carpet and I promise you, it really, really works, I’ve used it myself. Hang tight, we’re gonna tell you all about it.
Interview With Julie Holmes
Lorien Clemens: Welcome back, pet lovers! I hope you are having as much “fun” as I am today with all the “potty” talk. We spent the first half of the show focusing on products that are gonna help us manage our cat’s bathroom issues, because, well, frankly, they do all of their business IN OUR HOME and it’s really important that we’ve spent adequate time talking about those tools that will help them keep that business IN the litter box and off of our floors. However, as every pet parent unfortunately knows, even though our do — we know that our dogs are supposed to be doing all of their doo deeds outside and cats generally do use the litter box as we hope they do, accidents happen (or in the case of a really snarky cat I know, sometimes it’s on purpose). And that is when it’s really important to have a product that gets the stain and odor out. And I mean really gets it out, because, you know, I’ve had fur kids for decades, and I’ve tried tons of products, and everybody even has like things that they’ve made up at home that they think work perfectly, but frankly, I’ve never really found anything that works really well on everything. That is until I met our next guest and I tried the product that she has from Unique Natural Pet Products. So, I’ve asked Julie Holmes from Unique Naturals to come in today. I’m really excited for her to tell everybody about the science behind why her products work. Julie, good morning and welcome to the show!
Julie Holmes: Good morning! Thank you for having me.
Lorien Clemens: I’m really excited, because, I’m serious, we have had some cat issues that I’ve never been able to get out of the carpets until now and I want you to tell us about how Unique Natural Pet Products actually came into being, ‘cause it’s kind of a funny story about a road trip in an RV?
Julie Holmes: Actually, no, it’s more of the apartment sit — the apartments, because years ago, when people were — you’d move out of your apartment, you had pets, they would — say you only lived there 6 months, they would come in and roll up every bit of carpet and throw it in the trash.
Lorien Clemens: Oh, yeah…
Julie Holmes: …and ours is a family-owned business and so it — my father at the time owned a janitorial supply business and he said, “This is absolutely ridiculous. You cannot be throwing away carpet that is practically new, so let’s come up with something.” And at that time they were working on using bacteria for oil spills, that was around the Valdez oil spill. Actually no, I’m sorry, it was the one that was on the, um, the west coast and so they were seeing just how good these bacterias could do in breaking down organic waste. So, we started working with Kimes and came up with our formula and the rest is history. It’s just, you know, gone from there.
Lorien Clemens: Got it. And on the show, you know, we’re all about science, so I wanna hear more about this bacteria, what — tell me the science about why they work, why does this bacteria work? What is it doing?
Julie Holmes: Okay, well, it is literally biodegrading that stain and odor. Say you take a hike out in the woods, you don’t smell a lot of urine. So what happens is this, our bacteria literally comes from the soil; so it is taken from the soil and put in some processes that make it — grow faster — but it literally comes from the dirt. There’s many other things they can do with bacterias now, they’re, you know, you can grow ‘em from shrimp, it’s — bacteria is in our world and it’s a good thing. So, all of our bacteria is non-pathogenic. And what that means isnon-pathogenicc organisms are harmless to their host and may actually be beneficial. And so, one thing that happens with bacteria, it — there aren’t science — there’s not the science yet to prove it, but the good bacteria out eats bad bacteria. So in many situations where you might even have some pretty toxic organic waste, the good bacteria gets in there and they eat it so fast, that they out eat the bad guys, so then they run out of food and they die off. So, there are so many benefits to bacteria and what it’s doing.
Lorien Clemens: Right.
Julie Holmes: Um………so, one thing, in the past, people always say, “Bacteria. Bad. Scary”, you know, we think of disease.
Lorien Clemens: M-hm.
Julie Holmes: Well, our bacteria is more like the bacteria that’s in your yogurt, or even your kombucha. And I don’t know if you’ve ever looked at a bottle of kombucha, but for years we actually put our product in a clear bottle and people would call and they said, “Oh, there’s this gross looking thing in here. What is this? Dough?”
Lorien Clemens: [laughs]
Julie Holmes: Okay, now we’ll go to an opaque bottle because obviously, this is grossing people out.
Lorien Clemens: Right.
Julie Holmes: Now that there’s kombucha, everybody gets it. It’s like, “Oh, yeah, that’s just like what’s — that’s like the strains of things that are in my beverage that I’m drinking in my body.”
Lorien Clemens: So these are good germs, these aren’t the kind of germs that people are gonna be like, “Oh, I don’t want that around my house or my pets, or my family.” This is good germs stuff.
Julie Holmes: Good stuff. And it, it’s benefiting all of us. And, so how it’s working is – bacteria, they’re a living organism, so they’re hungry. So what they do is they start out by, they shed enzymes, and we hear the term enzymes, but we think, “What does that mean?” Enzymes break down organic waste. What bacteria does is it goes to the next step. The enzymes break it down to make it it’s food and it literally eats that — I always picture Pacman, that’s right where my mind goes, ‘cause it’s something we can picture. So, picture that little Pacman going waka-waka-waka and he’s eating that stain and odor that is on — in your carpet or on a piece of furniture or anything like that that your pet has done. On cats it might even be they might have got mad at you and sprayed on the wall.
Lorien Clemens: Yes. [laughs]
Julie Holmes: …and those Pacman go in there and start eating. Now, another thing that’s great about bacteria is – it grows, because it’s a living organism. That organic waste, which is potty, poop, somebody throws up, say you — somebody you know cuts a paw or something and there’s a little bit of blood, that’s the food source for our bacteria. So it goes into that spot, you pour that on there and it starts reproducing itself, makes those enzymes. Enzymes start breaking it down and then those little bacteria just go in and start eating and eating and eating until there’s nothing left. They turn into water and carbon dioxide and go away.
Lorien Clemens: And so it basically, depending on how big the stain is, it might take them more or less time to get it removed.
Julie Holmes: Exactly. It’s not, it’s not like a chemical where you put it down and wipe it off, you put it down and you let it do its thing, you let it go to work and eat all that…
Lorien Clemens: Stuff
Julie Holmes: …you know, stain and odor of your…so, it’s, it’s not an instantaneous process, it may take a day or two and if you’ve got a really bad situation which — we have heard of many, um, it could take a few days, or you may have to use it a couple of different times.
Lorien Clemens: And it’s important to keep it moist, that was something that for me, when I was reading the directions, I was like, “Oh, of course, it’s bacteria, it has to stay moist”, right?
Julie Holmes: Right, it needs — what it needs to survive is a food source and moisture and then they just go and they will continue — bacteria can move. Now, they can’t move — they’re not like Olympic swimmers, but they can move. So, where there’s moisture, they will move out into that area. So that’s why, when you put it down, you want to totally wet the whole area where that stain is, because then it will get out into all of that and it will also go down, it will go down into your pad and from the pad down to the subfloor.
Lorien Clemens: And, and, and, I wanna make sure that people understand that this product is safe. You know, a lot of companies claim to be safe, but sometimes it’s just a marketing claim, but tell me about what safe means to Unique Natural?
Julie Holmes: Okay, and it is very important to us. So, when we make our products, we really vet where they come from, how they work and one thing we’ve been using is the European Union, because they seem to be a little more on the forefront of what is safe and what is natural. So, we use their standards, rather than standards we have here in the United States. We always, you know, on our MSDS sheets, which are the sheets that tell exactly how safe a product is and I had a situation where somebody’s dog actually licked this and they were panicked and they called the vet and the vet called me and he said, “Can you send me a MSDS?” and I said, “Oh, absolutely’” and I sent it over and he was like, “Oh my gosh, this is so” — he said, “I will assure my customer that there’s no problem with this. This is a great safe product.”
Lorien Clemens: Awesome. That’s a …
Julie Holmes: But it is a problem, because what you think is safe may be different from what I think is safe and what a particular mom blog thinks is safe. [both laugh] We do have surfactants in our products and they — we gravitate towards the ones that are a proof of the cosmetic world, so if you can put it on your skin,
Lorien Clemens: then you can…you can put it on your carpet.
Julie Holmes: it’s gonna be fine for you to put it on your carpet.
Lorien Clemens: Now I want you to tell me real quick, ‘cause I know you had some really funny stories, but tell me what is he funniest thing that you’ve ever heard about used with your product to get out of the carpets?
Julie Holmes: Well, luggage is a popular one.
Lorien Clemens: Oh!
Julie Holmes: And animals get so mad when their pet parents are going away, that they will urinate on their luggage. And then, all of a sudden, you’re gonna go somewhere and your piece of luggage smells horrible. So that’s one of the most popular places. [both laugh]
Lorien Clemens: I never even thought about that, that is so true though. I’ve actually had that happen and I’ve actually like thrown bags away…
Julie Holmes: Exactly. So you don’t have to now, but yeah, that’s and angry, that’s an angry pet. They do not like you to travel.
Lorien Clemens: I think we’ve all had that. Well Julie, thank you so much for coming in today. Tell us where we can get the product, real quick.
Julie Holmes: We are on, um, — you can find us online at uniquemm.com, that’s our website. It will also show stores in your area. We love our independent pet stores, also Ace Hardware, Fred Myers and mini independent hardware and pet stores around the US.
Lorien Clemens: Great, and we’ll make sure that we put the link to your stuff online as well on our website. And hang tight everyone for our last segment. We’re gonna share some news about a new gadget that brings a dog bathroom indoors! Hand tight pet lovers, we will be right back!
Jesse Newton’s Roomba Disaster Story Shared by Lorien
Thanks for joining us today, pet lovers. It’s been a lot of fun talking about all these doo-doo things and I wanna share a couple of more things with you. Before I talk about doggie toilets, I want to share a story and this story was actually the topic — the story that inspired today’s topic and it’s cautionary tale. [smiles] It’s a cautionary tale of how tech can go horribly, horribly wrong. I saw this on Facebook a few months ago and I’ve been thinking about doing a show on this ever since. So, I wanna share this story. It’s a post that was shared over 180,000 times and it’s a tale of poo woe. A man from Arkansas, his name is Jesse Newson — Newton shared this on his Facebook page. Here’s his post:
“So, last week, something pretty tragic happened in our household. It’s taken me until now to wrap my head around it and find the words to describe the horror. It started off simple enough – something that’s probably happened to most of you. Sometime between midnight and 1:30am, our puppy Evie pooped on our rug in the living room. This is the only time she’s ever done this, so it’s probably because we forgot to let her out before we went to bed that night. Now, if you have a detective’s mind, you may be wondering how do we know if the poop occurred between midnight and 1am? We were asleep, how could I possibly know the time frame? Why, friends, that’s because our Roomba starts at 1:30am every night, while we sleep. And it found the poop. And so begins Pooptastrophe. The poopocalypse. The pooppening. If you have a Roomba, please rid yourself of all distractions and absorb everything I’m about to tell you. Do not, under any circumstance, let your Roomba run over dog poop. If the unthinkable does happen, and your Roomba runs over dog poop, stop it immediately. Do not let it continue the cleaning cycle, because if that happens, it will spread dog poop over every conceivable surface within its reach, resulting in a home that closely resembles a Jackson Pollock poop painting.”
By the way, Pet Lover Geek listeners, there a paint — there’s a drawing that Jessie did, that goes along with this, that I’ll share on my Facebook page. Back to the story.
“It will be on your floorboards. It will be on your furniture legs. It will be on your carpets. It will be on your rugs. It will be on your kids’ toy boxes. If it’s near the floor, it will have poop on it. Those awesome wheels, the ones that have checkered surface for better traction, left a 25-foot poop trail all over our house. Our lovable Roomba, who gets a careful cleaning for us every night, looked like it had been mudding. Yes, mudding – like what you do with a Jeep on a pipeline road, only this time in poop. Then, when your four-year-old gets up at 3am to crawl into your bed, you’ll wonder why he smells like dog poop. And you’ll walk into the living room. And you’ll wonder why the floor feels slightly gritty. And you’ll see a brown-encrusted, vaguely Roomba-looking shaped thing sitting in the middle of the floor with a glowing green light, like everything’s okay. It’s proud of itself. It cleaned while you were asleep. Now, you were still half-asleep at this point, but now you wake up pretty darn quickly. And then the horror. Oh the horror. So, first you clean the child. You scrub the poop off his feet and put him back into bed. But you don’t bother cleaning your own feet, because you know what’s coming. It’s inevitable, it’s coming at you like a freight train. Some folks would shrug their shoulders and get back into bed and deal with it in the morning. But you, you are not one of those people – you cannot go to sleep with a war zone of poop in the living room. So you clean the Roomba. You toss it in the bathtub to let it soak. You pull it apart, piece-by-piece, wondering at what point you became an adult and assumed responsibility for 3:30am-Roomba-disassembly-poop-cleanups. But at this point, it isn’t just poop that’s on your hands – it’s smeared up to your elbows. You had already heard that the Roomba could make a “whirlllllllllllllllll-hisssssssss-pop” sound and it sounded like electronics dying, and then you realize something. You forgot to pull out the battery before throwing it in the tub. But more on that later. Oh, and you’re probably using profanity – you’re inventing new types of profanity. You’re saying things that would make Satan shudder in revulsion. You hope your kid has stayed in bed, because if he hears you talking like this, there’s no way he’s not ending up in prison. But then you get out the carpet shampooer and you push it up to the rug – the rug that started it all, and that shampooer – it just laughs at you. Because that rug, oh that rug is going in the trash, folks. But you shampoo it anyway, because your wife loves that darn rug, and you know that she will ask if you at least tried to clean it first. Then you get out the paper towel rolls, idly wondering if you should invest in paper towel stock now, and then you blow through three, four rolls wiping up poop. You get out spray bottles with bleach water and hose down the floor boards to let them soak, because the poop has already dried and sunk in. Then out comes the steam mop, and you take care of those 25-ft poop trails. And then, because hey, it’s already 6am, you decide to go to bed. Let’s finish this tomorrow, right?
The next day, you finish taking that Roomba apart, scraping out all the tiny flecks of poop, and after watching a few Youtube instructional videos, you remove the motherboard to wash it with a toothbrush. Then you bake it in the oven to dry and you put it all back together, and of course it doesn’t work. Because remember at 3-something am you heard that “whirlllllllllllllll-boop-hissssssss” noise when it died its poopy death in the bathtub. But you really hoped that maybe the Roomba gods would have mercy on you. But no. WELL there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, because after spending a week researching how to fix this darn $400 Roomba without having to spend $400 again – including refurb units and new motherboards and new batteries – you finally decide to call the place where you bought it. That place called Hammacher and Schlemmer. Yeah, they have a funny name, but guess what? They have an awesome warranty. They claim that it’s for life, and well, here’s a reason. So I called them and I told them the truth. My Roomba found dog poop and it precipitated World War III. And you know what they did? They replaced it. Yes, folks. They replaced the Roomba that ran over dog poop and then died a poopy, watery death in the bathtub – by no fault of their own, of course. So, mad props to them. If you’re buying something expensive and they sell it, I recommend buying it from them. And remember – don’t ever let your Roomba run over dog poop.”
Well, when I first read that story and I saw the picture that accompanies it, which really — you have to see the picture because it’s just hilarious. It does look like a Jackson Pollock picture of poop. It reminds me that we do things all the time to bring technology into our lives and the best-laid plans don’t always go right. So whenever you are bringing any one of these pieces of tech into your home that we’ve talked about, know that nothing’s gonna be perfect and things like a Roomba running over a poop at 1:30 in the morning can certainly make your life not easy like you were hoping it would be with the technology. And of course, this actually — this particular story could have been avoided if we just had indoor dog toilets, you know what I mean? So, I was looking at some indoor dog toilet products, because a friend of mine actually has been developing one and imma talk to you about that in a minute, but I thought well are there are other things that are already out there that are ready to be purchased. A flushable dog purchase type of thing. So, what I found is that there is a product out there called the Powerloo and it’s a flushable toilet for pet waste, but you know what? It’s outdoor only. So back what Tom and I were talking about getting rid of all the poo bags and stuff like that, it’ something that will definitely help you keep the poo out of the garbage, because, like I mentioned, it should never go into yard waste or compost bin, because it’s full of a lot of nasty pathogens. But this product, the Powerloo, is something that can hook up to your septic system and it can send poo right out through the septic system. But it is an outdoor thing. It’s basically a flushable garbage can for the outdoors. But, the product that I’m most excited about, and it’s a friend of mine named Jeni Halliday who has invented it and she’s been working on it for years now and finally has it patented, it’s in the testing mode. It is a toilet that goes indoors, my friends, it is flushable, it connects to your sewer system and imagine, it could be a lifesaver for so many people. If you live in a high-rise apartment, if you have a disability that makes it difficult to go outdoors, all the time to let your dog do his business, or maybe there’s a weather issue — not to mention just incredible applications at airports and hotels. It’s a really exciting product. You should go on to their website and look at it. It is super duper cool, it’s halli-loo.com and look at the product, the pictures that they’ve got there are really awesome. Now, like I mentioned, it’s still in the beta testing phase, so it is not available yet for sale, but as soon as it is out on the market and available for sale, I’m gonna have Jeni Halliday come on the show and chat about her process to get this thing invented. As far as I’m concerned, if the dog toilet was able to come inside, that would make my – everything! I would love that.
So, um, we’re running out of time for today, pet lovers! I hope that you have enjoyed us talking about dog poo and pee and cats and all these things today. I know that it was a funny topic. Thanks so much to Marci Koski, again, she’s from felinebehaviorsolutions.com, Tom Arnold – the CTO of PetHub, our sponsor at pethub.com and Julie Holmes from Unique Natural Pet Products at uniqueproductsmm.com. All those will be up on our website later today. Thanks for — so much to them for helping me with all this great potty talk. Please tune in next week because we are gonna talk about some really great tech products for traveling pet parents. Things that will help you see them and talk to them while you’re gone, things that will help you keep track of them should they get lost, all sorts of things that are important to have when you are on your road, either with or without your pets. But until then pet lovers, snuggle with those fur kids, have a pawsome weekend and we’ll see you back next week!
Tune into the episode The Scoop on Poop: Helping Your Manage Your Fur Kids’ Bathroom Dooty |
A dry skin rash, that too on the face, is quite common during the winter months, when the humidity drops below the average level and the indoor temperature remains high. The two triggering factors are frequent exposure to environmental factors and excessive washing. Thus, facial skin is more susceptible to dry rashes than other portions of the body. In most cases of dry skin rash on chin or other facial areas, improvement signs are observed with proper facial skin care approaches.
Truly speaking, there is no exact cause. While some people develop it only during dry climatic conditions, others have it anytime, irrespective of the environmental factors. These rashes on face are commonly manifested in babies and toddlers. Since they have very sensitive skin, a short spell of dry condition can cause cracks, peels, rashes, and alike skin disorders. Another triggering factor for rashes in babies is the use of strong skin formulations.
In general, people who have very dry skin are prone to itchy rashes. However, it can also be caused due to eczema and contract dermatitis. If skin dryness is the root cause, the problem can be combated effectually with regular skin care regimen. Another common reason is regular use of skin care products that cause dryness. For example; frequent use of aggressive soaps that are formulated for decreased oil production, washes away natural oils from the face, thus increasing the risk for developing rashes.
Although dry skin rash on nose or other facial areas is not so serious, it is not recommended to self diagnose or treat this skin condition. Of course, you can follow home remedies to get rid of it. But, it is necessary that you get the condition checked by a qualified dermatologist before using any therapeutic medications.
- Both unwashed face or frequent face washing can lead to dry skin rashes. Ideally, face washing should be done with cold water thrice in a day (first morning, after meal, and before going to bed).
- Apply a good moisturizer on your face, twice daily. This will help in softening and conditioning skin. Make sure that the skin moisturizer product is fragrance free and based on natural ingredients.
- Try to identify the allergic factors for causing dry skin rash on face and avoid them. Exposure to bright sunlight causes damaging effects to skin. Thus, you should apply cream with sun protection factor, whenever you step out of home.
- If you have dry or sensitive skin, do not use perfume loaded or alkaline soaps. Instead, you can opt for soap and perfume-free facial cleaners for regular cleaning.
- During dry winter months, using a humidifier will help maintain the normal humidity levels. This is not only beneficial for reducing rashes on face, but using a humidifier is good for treating breathing problems.
- For men, the main cause for skin rash on face is the use of aftershave cream that contains alcohol as one of its ingredients. As far as possible, stay away from alcohol-based skin formulations or makeup items.
- Last but not the least, drink plenty of water everyday to keep the skin hydrated and moist. Also, include lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods for healthy skin. Healthy eating is a sure way to maintain glowing skin.
If the dry skin rash on forehead or remaining face subsides with home remedies, you do not need further therapeutic treatment. Consulting a doctor becomes imperative if the dry skin rash on face is accompanied with severe itching and infection signs.
The dermatologist will examine the appearance of the rashes to predict the causal organism. If required, diagnostic tests are conducted to confirm infection. Based on the results, antimicrobial creams specific to the microbial group and oral medications are prescribed for treatment of facial skin rashes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject. |
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Art VIII.—The Structure of Amphibola crenata Martyn.*
[Read before the Otago Institute, 9th October, 1917; received by Editor, 17th December, 1918; issued separately, 14th May, 1919.]
The shell of Amphibola was first brought to the notice of European naturalists by being collected during Cook's voyage to New Zealand in 1769, but the earliest account of the anatomy of Amphibola we owe to Quoy and Gaimard in 1832. The only other accounts we have are those of Captain Hutton in 1879 and 1882, and of Bouvier in 1892.†
Quoy and Gaimard (1832) described specimens collected in New Zealand during the expedition of the “Astrolabe.” They ascertained that it was a true pulmonate, and that it was hermaphrodite. They give excellent figures of the shell and operculum, but only one of the internal anatomy, and that is lacking considerably in detail; while their account of the anatomy is inaccurate in several points, and not sufficiently detailed.
Captain Hutton (1879) noted the two small triangular tentacles, and described the kidney and alimentary canal in greater detail than Quoy and Gaimard, though his description of the intestine is not quite correct. He also figured and described the nervous system and reproductive organs. In 1882 he published some further notes, wherein he corrects his former account of the radula and traces what he took for the “oviduct” from the hermaphrodite duct. Further mention of Hutton's work will be made throughout my account.
For a systematic diagnosis of the species reference should be made to Suter's Manual of New Zealand Mollusca (1913) and Atlas of Plates (1915).
[Footnote] * This paper formed the basis of a thesis for Honours in Zoology at the University of New Zealand, 1916.
[Footnote] † I have been unable to consult this memoir.
Although in the original thesis submitted to the University of New Zealand the histological structure of the various organs was discussed and illustrated, I have thought it advisable to omit these matters in the present paper.
I wish here to express my indebtedness to Professor Benham for his valuable suggestions and great help in preparing this paper for publication.
Amphibola crenata is a basommatophorous pulmonate gasteropod found living on mud-flats in sheltered bays, both in brackish and in salt water. It belongs to a series of pulmonates sometimes termed “gehydrophilous” (Cook, 1895, p. 18), in which, while the gill has been replaced by a “lung,” the animal has not become truly an inhabitant of fresh water. Amphibola and some other genera, such as Gadinia and Siphonaria, are “intermediate between essentially fresh-water and essentially marine species.”
The larger specimens of Amphibola are found quite close to the sea, the smaller ones farther up the mud-flat. They occur in enormous numbers on all the flats around the Otago Harbour, and, indeed, all along the coast of New Zealand. They are, of course, covered during high tide, but are exposed to view at low tide, so that the greater part of their life is passed out of water. Nevertheless, sufficient water is retained in the mantle-chamber to keep the tissues moist.
These animals are exceedingly sluggish. When they are in their natural surroundings one has to watch them very closely to see whether they are moving or not; but if they are placed in a little sea-water in a dish their method of locomotion is readily studied. When examined on the shore the only evidences of movement are the slow twirling of the shell as it is being drawn up to cover the slightly extended head and foot, the latter of which is concealed in the mud, and the furrow traced out on its path. The most striking feature of this movement is the very small part of the foot that is exposed at any one time. Its method of locomotion is as follows: A small portion of the anterior part of the foot is protruded, and this acts as a temporary anchor. The shell is then drawn up to cover the exposed part, and as it is twisted from left to right during the process it leaves a small part of the foot exposed on the left side and behind. The animal then glides slowly forward for a space without twisting the shell at all. The above process is repeated, the movement of the shell sometimes being from right to left. The shell is carried at an angle to the surface on which the animal is walking, the right side of the shell being raised a little from the mud, while the left side almost touches it. The animal is very sensitive, retracting into the shell at the slightest touch or at any disturbance of the water.
Fig. 1.—Amphibola crenata from below (natural size), as seen creeping up the side of a glass vessel of fresh water and thus exposing the whole of the foot. The two lappets of the head project only slightly in front of it. f, foot; h, head; m, mouth; s, shell.
Although air-breathing, Amphibola is able to live a considerable time immersed in water, either fresh or salt. If kept in a glass of fresh water the cover of which is sealed up it will live for a week; if completely
immersed in fresh water but not so sealed up it will live for a fortnight; if completely immersed in sea-water it will live a month; but if left without any water at all it does not live more than a day. Even when the tide is low there is always a certain amount of water left in the mud, so that these animals are not, in their native habitat, left absolutely dry.
As Suter gives a good technical description and figure of the shell it is unnecessary to deal with it here.
The animal is of small size and of a beautiful rich black colour.
The head is but slightly marked off from the foot, and is relatively of great breadth (fig. 2). Its anterior region is rather deeply excavated in the middle line so as to form a pair of lappets, one on each side of the mouth. Some distance from these are situated the pair of small, flat, triangular tentacles, which in the majority are so deeply pigmented that the minute eye is not readily seen, but in paler specimens the eye is recognized as an extremely small black dot of darker pigment close to the tip of the tentacle. Quoy and Gaimard, though mentioning the eyes, failed to note the tentacles. Hutton (1879), however, describes the latter, but states that the eye is at the base. This error is repeated, naturally, in Suter's Manual, but any one who examines the creature with sufficient care will be able to confirm my statement.*
Fig. 2.—Dorsal view of the animal removed from the shall (× 2). The foot is bent upon itself so that the ventral surface of its posterior region is seen in front of the head. Some of the interior organs are seen by transparency, e, eye; g, groove into which anus opens; gp, genital pore; gz, gizzard; int, intestine; ipl, inferior pallial lobe; k, kidney; m, mouth; me, collar; pa, pulmonary aperture; rl, right lappet of head; t, tentacle; vf, ventral surface of foot.
The foot is short, and almost circular in outline, as seen from below (fig. 1). In preserved specimens it is very much shrunken, but if examined when the animal is walking it will be seen that the foot is capable of being expanded until a narrow margin is visible beneath the shell all the way round except on the right side. The foot is separated from the head by a slight furrow; there is no distinction into pro-, meso-, and meta-podium, nor have I found any trace of a pedal gland. The anterior part of the creeping-sole is cream-coloured, the posterior part greyish-blue.
[Footnote] * It is not surprising that the tentacles were overlooked by the earlier zoologists, if they had only preserved specimens at their disposal, for when the head is contracted they are difficult to distinguish from wrinklings of the body-wall. As to the eye, in ordinary specimens they, too, are indistinguishable in such material: it is only in fresh specimens and in those in which the pigmentation at the tip of the tentacles is less than usual that they can be seen. [W. B. B.]
Attached to the dorsal surface of the hind end of the foot is the operculum, closely underlying the shell so as to be visible only from the side. When the animal is completely retracted it fits close against the entrance to the spiral portion of the shell, and is firmly held there by muscles.
This characteristic prosobranchiate structure is found in this genus only amongst the Pulmonata.
The thickened edge of the mantle, which, of course, is fused with the neck, and which is usually called the “collar” (fig. 2, mc), is light in colour, and is very muscular. It does not project beyond the shell during locomotion, but if the animal is allowed to remain in fresh water the head becomes expanded and the mantle-edge appears under the outer lip of the shell. The upper lip of the pulmonary aperture is then seen fitting into the sinus of the shell.
The margin of the pulmonary aperture is not a simple circular aperture as in Helix, but the lower lip is produced outwards into an “inferior pallial lobe” (ipl) such as occurs in Chilina according to Lang (1900). This lobe is deeply grooved, the groove being triangular in shape, with the apex directed backwards towards the pallial chamber (fig. 2, g). The anus is situated at the apex of this groove. Hutton (1879) describes and figures the anus as being to the right of the pulmonary aperture, and both Hutton and Quoy and Gaimard draw the triangular furrow mentioned above as if it were part of the rectum. The anus is really posterior to the pulmonary aperture, although it is capable of being carried beyond it by the extension of the inferior pallial lobe. When the faeces are passed to the exterior the lips of the triangular groove probably close together, so that it is temporarily converted into a tube. This prevents any faeces entering the mantle-cavity. The inferior pallial lobe is also capable of closing against the upper lip of the pulmonary aperture.
Organs of the Pallial Complex. (Fig. 3.)
The most conspicuous organ on the roof of the mantle-chamber is the kidney, which presents several remarkable features. It is pure-white in colour, and occupies the middle region of the mantle, across which it extends obliquely for about two-thirds of its breadth: somewhat flaskshaped in outline, its apex is situated a short distance from the pulmonary aperture, its broader base close to the left side of the roof of the mantlecavity. Running along its ventral surface is a narrow band of muscle (mu) which arises from the middle of the hinder edge of the columella-muscle, which is not shown in the figure. The portions of the kidney on either side of this band are of unequal sizes.
The excretory aperture is a conspicuous longitudinal slit on a papilla at its anterior end (ex), which projects freely from the mantle itself. The wall of the kidney is thick, and internally bears numerous filiform papillae which almost fill its cavity. The excretory products can be seen by teasing up a portion and examining it in the fresh state: they appear as clear spherical vesicles of different sizes, each of which has a very thin envelope of a protoplasmic nature, surrounding a drop of hyaline, non-granular fluid. In the centre of this are several round concretions of a brownish colour.
Since the cells of the kidney are not ciliated, they will be unable to aid in the removal of excretory products. Probably the muscle-band which
runs along the dorsal surface of the kidney serves this purpose, by compressing the flow and so driving the stuff forwards to the pore.
Lying on the roof of the mantle-cavity, close to the anterior end of the kidney, and extending a short distance underneath it, is an oval mass of white rounded particles covered by a thin pigmented membrane (hy). It is situated in a curious depression which extends from the anterior end of
Fig. 3.—General dissection (× 2). The mantle, which has been cut along the collar and along the right side, has been turned to the animal's left, exposing the pallial complex. The head and neck have been opened to disclose the alimentary tract and part of the genital system. The rectal sinus has been severed at the point se, where it passes on to the roof of the mantle-chamber, ag, albumen-gland; as, anterior sinus; c, crop; cc, cut edge of collar; cd, common genital duct; ce, cut edge of mantle; d, depression in front of renal pore; dgl, digestive gland; div, diverticulum of oesophagus; ex, excretory pore; g, groove into which anus opens; gp, genital pore; gz, gizzard; hgl, hermaphrodite gland; hy, hypobranchial gland; irs, inferior rectal sinus; int, intestine; k, kidney; l, lung; Id, duct of digestive gland; m, mouth; mc, collar; mu, muscle-band on kidney; os, osphradium; pa, pulmonary aperture; pe, penis; pr, prostate; pv, pulmonary vein; r, rectum; se, cut end of rectal sinus; sg, salivary gland; srs, superior rectal sinus; st, stomach; t, tentacle.
the kidney to the edge of the mantle above the pulmonary aperture. When these particles are disturbed with a brush they give off a bluish fluorescent foam, which quickly re-forms as often as it is brushed away. When examined under the microscope the mass is seen to be made up of rounded particles of different sizes, which contain crowds of small granules. Though white by reflected light, the particles are brown by transmitted
light, and this colour is due to these granules, which are yellowish-brown in colour. They look like droplets of fat. Possibly this structure represents the hypobranchial gland, which, as Lang mentions, is absent in all pulmonates except Amphibola. This peculiar and striking phenomenon was met with in every specimen examined.
The heart lies at the base of the left side of the kidney: its wall is formed of a thin, but tough, transparent membrane. The auricle is much smaller than the ventricle, and broader posteriorly than at its anterior end. Its wall is very thin, white, and but feebly muscular. The ventricle is yellow in colour, and its wall is more muscular than that of the auricle.
The lung (l) is situated between the kidney and the anterior muscular edge of the mantle (fig. 3). The blood-vessels traversing it are not clearly visible, on account of the fact that they have very large cavities and extremely thin walls. Owing to the small size and very delicate walls of the auricle I was unable to inject the lung through the auricle, but I succeeded in injecting it through the pedal sinus, as will be described in the account of the circulatory system.
It is probable that dermal respiration plays as important a part as lung respiration, and the thick layer of pigment covering the mantle in the region of the lung may act as a respiratory pigment, as may also the pigment covering the other parts of the body.
Alimentary System. (Fig. 3.)
The mouth (m) is placed between the two lappets of the head, and opens into the cavity of the buccal mass. It is dark in colour, somewhat ovoid in shape, the posterior portion being swollen. From the ventral surface of this posterior portion the radula-sac extends backwards for a short distance below the oesophagus. There is no jaw, nor did I find any trace
of a rudiment of one. Two similar and symmetrical muscular masses project into the cavity of the buccal mass in front of the radula, one on each side of the middle line. They are dark in colour, and each is simply a muscular thickening of the wall of its respective side.
The radula is spatulate in shape, the pointed end being anterior. There are forty-four rows of teeth, the rows being set obliquely to the median
line. If the radula is mounted whole, only two kinds of teeth are visible, as it is very difficult to spread it out flat, but if separated with needles three distinct kinds can be distinguished (fig. 4)—(1) central, (2) lateral, (3) marginal.
The central tooth (tc) has a broad base, bearing a median cusp which is almost square in outline. On either side of this are a number of smaller cusps, six or seven, but the number differs with each central tooth and often on the two sides. The cusps next to the median on either side are smaller than those more remote; but all taper to a sharp point. On either side of the central tooth, and placed slightly above its upper margin, is a small elongated lateral tooth (il) which is somewhat blunt at the tip. Next to this is another lateral tooth, of larger size, which bears two cusps. The division into cusps is not the same in every tooth. Some have a large outer cusp and a very small, narrow inner one; in others the cusps are of equal length and breadth. But this difference is due probably to some being more worn away than others. The remaining teeth on each side of the laterals are the marginals (tm). They are all curved, simple, conical teeth, the tips of which are somewhat rounded.
Hutton (1879) describes only two kinds of teeth in the radula of Amphibola—median and lateral. He also says the spcies of the teeth point forward. He gives a very rough sketch of the radula, but the shape is not correct. In his second paper (1882) he redescribes the teeth. He notes that the median tooth has five or six cusps on either side, not two or three as he formerly thought; that there is a single lateral tooth, which is often divided into two and varies in shape; and that the rest of the teeth are aculeate, and increase in length towards the margin.
The form and great size of the median tooth in Amphibola seems unusual among pulmonates, for, judging from figures of radulas of other pulmonates (Bronn's Thierreich, pl. xcv)—e.g., Siphonaria, Limnaea, Planorbis, Auricula—the median tooth is much smaller and simpler than those on either side.
Perrier (1897) says that the form of the lingual teeth is related to diet: that they are obtuse and generally numerous in herbivorous molluscs, but have the form of a hook and are less numerous in carnivorous genera. The teeth in Amphibola, therefore, agree with those of other herbivorous molluscs.
A pair of salivary glands open into the buccal cavity (fig. 3, sg) near the commencement of the oesophagus. Each gland is a long, linear, yellow, sacculated structure, which passes through the nerve-collar and runs for a short distance backward beside the oesophagus. Posteriorly they taper, and are attached together and to the wall of the oesophagus.
The oesophagus extends backwards for about two-thirds the length of the body. The posterior portion lies beneath the intestinal coil, and is visible by transparency on the ventral surface of the uninjured animal. As far as the intestinal coil the oesophagus is a narrow tube, but it then dilates a little, the dilatation being marked off from the portion in front and behind it by constrictions. This specialized portion of the oesophagus is the crop (c). Behind the crop the oesophagus becomes broader, and on a level with the posterior end of the intestinal coil it bears a finger-shaped diverticulum on the right side (div). Behind this diverticulum the oesophagus becomes broader, and opens into the stomach (st), which is U-shaped, the right limb being much smaller and narrower than the left, which extends forwards towards the heart. An outgrowth of the left limb of the
stomach forms the gizzard (gz), which consists of two globular and symmetrical muscular projections separated by a muscular girdle. If the stomach be opened and its wall examined, two folds of the epithelium in the form of a pad will be seen on its floor, one behind the entrance to the gizzard and the other just in front of it. From each of these two pads a white wavy fold runs along the floor of the stomach towards the intestine. Another wavy fold is present to the right of these two.
The stomach passes into the intestine (int), which, after running underneath the aorta on the left side of the body, crosses the median line and then forms the intestinal coil. The intestine is very long, measuring in some specimens 8 ½ in. when uncoiled. It is coiled round and round the albumengland (ag) in a double spiral, the total number of complete coils being eight, only five of which are visible on the surface. It coils four times from right to left, the fourth coil crossing the middle of the albumen-gland transversely. After coiling four times in the opposite direction it runs along the right side of the first coil and passes into the rectum. The coils from left to right alternate with those from right to left. The rectum (r) runs along the right side of the body, and opens by the anus into the triangular groove already mentioned.
The extremely long coiled intestine is characteristic of herbivorous gasteropods. Amphibola has to pass through its alimentary canal enormous quantities of mud in order to obtain the vegetable matter it requires. Examination of the contents of the stomach and the mud itself shows that the food consists principally of diatoms. Several different kinds were found, the most frequent being Navicula. The faeces are deposited in long circular strings.
Hutton's drawing (1879) of the gizzard and stomach is not quite correct; and he says there are only five coils in the intestine, all reversed. He draws the triangular groove into which the anus opens as if it formed part of the wall of the rectum itself.
The digestive gland (fig. 3, dgl) is very large, occupying together with the gonad the hinder end of the body, and extending from the region of the stomach up to the apex of the visceral spire. It occupies the median portion of the spire, and lobes extend to the edge alternating with those of the gonad. It is a much-lobed gland, dark brown in colour, and when examined fresh it is seen to be dotted with numerous brown specks, the so-called entochlorophyll granules.
The duct of the liver, which appears to be single, opens into the right limb of the stomach, near its anterior end (ld).
The cells lining the lumen of the liver are long columnar cells, but they are of varying lengths, some extending a considerable distance into the cavity, others being very short. Two kinds of cells are distinguishable. (a.) Liver cells: The large cells mentioned above, as well as smaller liver cells, contain small granules, which give the yellowish-green colour to the fresh liver. They stain pink in eosin. (b.) Ferment cells: These occur in amongst the liver cells, and each has a large cavity containing a yellowish-brown granule. These entochlorophyll granules can be seen at various stages of formation, some cells containing minute granules, others granules a little larger, others again very large granules. I tried several tests for these granules, with the following results: They turned red when treated with gentian violet, turned pale green when treated with methyl green, remained brown when treated with osmic acid, and turned dark green when treated with eosin. Acetic acid had no effect; but they dissolved in caustic potash.
These entochlorophyll granules are just as numerous in a fasting animal as in one that has been feeding. The only difference I found was that the granules from a fasting animal dissolved in caustic potash at once; those in the other animals took a long time, some of them not dissolving at all.
Schneider (1902) distinguishes three kinds of cells in the liver: (a) liver cells, (b) excretory cells, (c) lime cells.
According to him, two sorts of granules occur in the “liver cells”—small liver-granules, which stain red in eosin, and large excretion granules (entochlorophyll). The “liver cells,” he says, perform a nutritive and secretory function. The “excretory cells,” he says, stain a deep black in osmic acid. The “lime cells” contain phosphate of lime.
The liver cells, as I have described, are present in the liver of Amphibola. I tested for “excretory cells” with osmic acid, but obtained no result; and of “lime cells” I could find no trace.
MacMunn (1900) regards the cells containing entochlorophyll in molluscs as “ferment cells.” He also describes “lime cells,” but finds no trace of the so-called “excretory cells.” He tested for glycogen in the liver, but obtained no results. Nor have I found any trace of glycogen in these cells in Amphibola.
The Nervous System. (Fig. 5.)
The nervous system consists of a ring of nerve-tissue surrounding the buccal mass a short distance from its posterior end. The ganglia are bright-orange in colour.
The cerebral ganglia are connected by a fairly stout cerebral commissure. From each there passes backwards and downwards a slender connective to the buccal ganglia, which are, as usual, of small size, and are situated slightly behind the entrance of the salivary gland. From the buccal ganglia, which are joined by the commissure, small nerves are given off to the buccal mass.
From each cerebral ganglion the following five nerves are given off to the anterior region of the head: (a) A very fine nerve, which runs alongside and close to the buccal mass, innervates the head lappet in the region of the mouth; (b) to the outer side of this is a nerve which almost at once bifurcates; (c) a very fine nerve, and (d) a stouter one which bifurcates (these two run parallel with the posterior branch of nerve b); (e) the two tentacular nerves run outwards and slightly upwards to enter the base of each tentacle, and one of the two innervates the eye.
From the right ganglion there also arises a stout nerve (f) which runs outwards and backwards and then bifurcates, the two branches supplying respectively the anterior and posterior portions of the penis. There is no corresponding nerve on the left side of the animal.
The pleural ganglia lie on the body-wall close to the cerebral, to which each is connected by the cerebro-pleural connective. There are apparently no nerves given off by these ganglia, but from the right pleuro-pedal connective, and nearer to the pedal than to the pleural ganglion, a slender nerve is given off which bifurcates almost immediately; the anterior branch (g), crossing below the penis, goes to the anterior end of the common genital duct, the posterior supplies the body-wall. On the left side the corresponding nerve, which also bifurcates, is, of course, entirely limited to innervating the body-wall of this side.
The pedal ganglia are of about the same size as the cerebral; the pleuro-pedal connectives are very short. From the pedal ganglia several large nerves supply all regions of the foot.
The only really interesting feature about the system relates to the character of the visceral loop, which is much longer in Amphibola than in ordinary pulmonates. From the right and left pleural ganglia a connective passes back to the visceral ganglion (gv), which is situated on the bodywall below the oesophagus, slightly to the right side. It is about the same size as one of the pedal ganglia, and, as we shall see later, probably represents the fused infra-intestinal and abdominal ganglia. From it are given off two strong nerves. The anterior one (k) runs out to the right side, ventral to the common genital duct, and bifurcates, one branch running up to supply the inferior pallial lobe, and the other backwards alongside the rectum. The posterior nerve (l) is stout, and runs backwards to supply the organs in the visceral spire.
Fig. 5.—The nervous system in situ (× 4). a, first cephalic nerve; d, fourth cephalic nerve; f, penial nerve; g, nerve of genital duct and body-wall; h, nerve to osphradial ganglion (which is represented in outline as it lies on the roof); j, nerve to body-wall; k, rectal nerve and its branch to the inferior pallial lobe; l, visceral nerves; m, n, nerves to body-wall; cd, common genital duct; ce, cut edge of mantle; gac, accessory ganglion; gos, osphradial ganglion; gsi, supra-intestinal ganglion; gv. visceral ganglion; pe, penis; r, rectum; t, tentacle.
A short distance from the pleural ganglia the visceral commissure bears two ganglia asymmetrically placed, the one on the right (gsi being larger and farther removed from the pleural ganglion than the one on the left (gac). The right one may be termed the supra-intestinal, and from it are given off two nerves.
The osphradial nerve (h) runs outwards to the osphradial ganglion, which is situated on the mantle on the right side. The osphradial ganglion itself gives off small nerves to the osphradium and the mantle. A slender nerve (j) supplies the body-wall.
The ganglion on the left is evidently an accessory ganglion (gac) which corresponds to that found on the visceral commissure in Chilina (Lang, 1900, p. 220; and Naef, 1911). This accessory ganglion sends off a nerve (n) which supplies the body-wall in the region of the collar.
Between this accessory ganglion and the visceral ganglion, but nearer the latter, a nerve (m) arises from the visceral commissure and supplies the columellar muscle. There is no ganglion corresponding to this nerve, though perhaps it arises from cells in the accessory ganglion.
According to Pelseneer (1906), “In all Euthyneura except Actaeon, Chilina, and Latia the infra-intestinal ganglion is fused with the abdominal in such a manner that the latter appears to participate in the innervation of the mantle—i.e., inferior pallial lobe.” Although we find that the inferior pallial lobe in Amphibola is innervated by a nerve from the visceral ganglion, yet serial sections across the latter give no indication of the union of two such ganglia.
In another primitive pulmonate, Latia, however, as figured by Pelseneer (1906) the approximation of the ganglionic centres has not gone so far, so that the infra-intestinal ganglion, although very close to the abdominal, has not fused with it. Latia, like Amphibola, has an accessory ganglion near the left pleural. The nervous system in Latia enables one to see how the condition in Amphibola may have come about.
The comparison of the nervous system of Limnaea, Chilina, and Amphibola will show more clearly that the visceral ganglion in the last probably represents the fused infra-intestinal and abdominal ganglia.
Hutton's description and figure of the nervous system do not agree with what I have found to be the case. He says that in addition to the cerebral and pedal ganglia there is “a parieto-splanchnic system, which consists of seven ganglia, three on each side, and an azygos infra-oesophageal ganglion connected with the others on either side.”
The anterior ganglion of his parieto-splanchnic system corresponds to the pleural ganglion; the posterior one to the accessory and supra-intestinal respectively; but I find no trace of the middle ganglion on either side. He observes no difference in size in these two ganglia, nor their asymmetry; nor does he mention any buccal ganglia. Nothing is said as to the various nerves themselves.
Sense Organs.—Tactile organs are distributed all over the surface of the head and foot. This is evident by the sensitiveness exhibited when the animal is touched, and also by the rich nerve-supply, especially in the anterior margin of the head.
A statocyst (or otocyst) is present on each pedal ganglion. It is an oval vesicle, and contains numerous calcareous lenticular statoliths. When examined fresh the statoliths oscillate in the fluid present in the vesicle. These movements cease after a short time. Some of the statoliths lie on the base of the nerve which leaves the statocyst. This nerve is seen running close against the cerebro-pleural connective, so that one may conclude that the nerve of the statocyst comes from the cerebral ganglion.
The osphradium is a simple epithelial ridge on the roof of the mantle-cavity close to the collar, near the pulmonary aperture (fig. 3, os). A nerve can be seen supplying it from the osphradial ganglion, which is in its turn innervated from the supra-intestinal ganglion. Hutton (1879) figures and describes the statocyst, but makes no mention of the osphradium.
The eye, as sections show, presents no peculiarity in structure; it is quite typically constructed. When a tentacle is mounted entire the eye
exhibits two distinct portions—a small linear light area, which represents the lens; and a deeply pigmented region, surrounding this but for its anterior end, is the retina (fig. 7). Below the eye, embedded in the substance of the tentacle, may be seen a mass of rounded particles of carbonate of lime such as occur throughout the tissues of the body.
Circulatory System. (Fig. 3.)
The only portion of the circulatory system that needs describing is the venous system. In order to trace out the veins I injected the animal through the foot. The best results were obtained with glycerine carmine, and the kidney was invariably well injected.
The blood is collected into sinuses, as can be proved by thus injecting the animal. From the larger sinuses the blood passes into two main tubular sinuses or veins, the anterior sinus and the rectal sinus (fig. 3).
On the left side the blood from the body enters the anterior sinus (as), which lies along the collar. Shortly before reaching the pulmonary aperture it curves round to connect with the pulmonary vein (pv), which runs close beside the kidney, to enter the anterior end of the auricle. The anterior sinus gives afferent branches to the lung (l) along its whole course, and the blood is collected by efferent branches which enter the pulmonary vein. Thus, though some of the blood enters the pulmonary vein directly from the anterior sinus, most of it reaches the heart only after filtering through the vessels of the mantle-roof, which constitutes the lung.
The rectal sinus consists of two superposed channels, one above the other—the inferior rectal sinus (irs) and the superior rectal sinus (srs). The inferior rectal sinus commences at the inferior pallial, lobe, and runs along the floor of the mantle on the right side of and close to the rectum. It extends back as far as the coils of the intestine, where it leaves the bodywall floor of the mantle-chamber and, bending abruptly on itself, passes forward along the roof of the mantle above its former course as the superior rectal sinus (srs) as far as the pulmonary aperture. It then bends at right angles and traverses the mantle as far as the commencement of the collar, where it seems to cease. The blood, which enters both ends of the rectal sinus, is carried through vessels traversing the mantle from the sinus to the afferent renal vein, which runs along the dorsal surface of the kidney, and which is therefore not shown in the drawing. The blood from the afferent renal vein is then distributed through the sinuses in the connective tissue which supports the filiform papillae of the kidney. These trabeculae of connective tissue are traversed by axial sinuses which function as blood-spaces. The blood thus reaches the efferent renal vein, which runs backwards near the ventral surface of the kidney, below the muscle-band, to enter the auricle.
I have had great difficulty in tracing out the circulatory system. The heart and blood-vessels have such extremely thin walls that it is impossible to inject them from the heart. On one occasion the injection went from the auricle along the pulmonary vein and into the anterior sinus directly for a short distance, but I did not observe any injection on the wall of the lung itself. By injecting through the foot the kidney was invariably well injected, and sections across the lung showed that the vessels of the lung had also been injected. As explained above, the afferent and efferent vessels on the wall of the lung are not as clearly visible in Amphibola as in Helix and in other pulmonates. The same is true of the vessels running
from the superior rectal sinus to the renal vein. Sections across the mantle between the kidney and the rectal sinus, however, show the existence of these blood-vessels.
The rectal sinus where it traverses the roof of the mantle is very conspicuous. Quoy and Gaimard (1832) draw it as if it were coming from the ventricle. Hutton (1879) says it does not come from the ventricle, as Quoy and Gaimard figure; but he was unable to trace its connection, nor does he seem to have traced out the circulatory system at all. When the animal is opened by cutting along the right side of the mantle the rectal sinus is necessarily cut across at its hinder end where it bends upwards on to the roof of the mantle. I am not quite certain whether the superior rectal sinus ends, as shown, near the collar (fig. 3), but I can trace it no farther.
Although the rectal sinus in Amphibola is a definite blood-vessel, I have called it a “sinus” in order to compare more easily the circulatory system with that of a typical pulmonate—e.g., Helix. The superior rectal sinus, then, evidently corresponds to the so-called rectal sinus of Helix, the inferior rectal sinus being an additional vessel. The circulation of blood in the lung and in the kidney agrees with that found in Helix, except that in Amphibola, as in other primitive forms, the blood after being purified in the kidney enters the heart directly.
Amphibola, like all the Euthyneura, is hermaphrodite. The genital organs lie for the most part on the right side of the body, and comprise the hermaphrodite gland (or ovotestis), albumen-gland, and an undivided genital duct, into which open certain accessory organs.
The genital aperture is situated at the base of the right tentacle (fig. 2), and presumably serves for the exit of both ova and spermatozoa, though I have been unable to trace the course taken by the ova in their passage to the exterior.
The ovotestis (hgl), together with the liver, occupies the visceral spire. On the ventral surface it is plainly seen as a light-yellowish-brown organ extending the whole length of the spire and embedded in the dark-brown gastric gland. On the dorsal surface, however, only portions of the gland are visible, separating the darker bands of the liver (fig. 3). It consists of several lobules, each composed of numerous acini, the ends of which are tipped with a dark-brown pigment. These lobules communicate with small ductules which unite to form the hermaphrodite duct (hd). Posteriorly it is of a rich brown tint, but anteriorly it becomes paler till it is white. This leaves the ovotestis as a very wavy duct, which passes forward on the ventral surface of the visceral spire to open into the common genital duct (cd). Just before the point of entrance it gives off a small finger-shaped diverticulum, the seminal vesicle (sv), which underlies the duct and rests close against the albumen-gland.
Pelseneer (1895) in a paper discussing the origin of hermaphroditism in the Mollusca refers to Amphibola in these terms: “The wall of the genital gland shows distinct sexual differences upon the two sides of the follicles, in which the female side exhibits projections which are rudiments of the acini of this sex.” It will be remembered that Cottrell (1911) shows that in Siphonaria the peripheral acini or follicles produce only eggs, whereas the central ones produce spermatozoa. In Helix each follicle produces both kinds of germ cell from any part of the epithelium. My own observations tend to show that Pelseneer's statement is correct, except that I do not find
any “projections” from the side of the follicles. Sections across the ovotestis of Amphibola show that ova and spermatozoa are developed in the same follicle. The spermatozoa, however, are confined to one portion of wall, while from the rest of the epithelium the ova are formed. They develop at a later period of the year. Spermatozoa are fully developed in November, whereas at this date the ova are still small and not ready to be discharged.
The common genital duct consists of two dictinct regions—(a) glandular, (b) non-glandular. The glandular region (gld), into which the hermaphrodite duct leads, lies in close contact with the posterior ventral portion of the
Fig. 6.—The genital system unravelled so as to exhibit as much as possible (× 2). The point of entrance of the prostate into the cavity of the penis is indicated by dotted lines. ag, albumengland; cd, common genital duct; gld, glandular portion of common duct; gp, genital pore; hd, hermaphrodite duct; hgl, hermaphrodite gland; pe, penis; pi, prostate; sv, seminal vesicle.
albumen-gland (ag). It is a white, mucilaginous, finely coiled tube, all the coils of which I have not attempted to show in the drawing. This tube gradually loses its mucilaginous character and widens to form the commencement of the non-glandular portion (cd), which narrows again as it passes forward along the body-wall parallel to, and on the left of, the rectum as a wavy duct of a cream colour. It reaches almost to the base of the right tentacle, narrowing slightly as it does so. It then turns sharply on itself, runs backwards, and after a short distance bends abruptly and becomes much enlarged to form the penis (pe), which is a pyriform organ of a light-cream colour with very muscular walls.
Opening into the common duct are two diverticula, the albumen-gland and the prostate. The albumen-gland (ag) opens into the distal end of the glandular region opposite the point at which it passes into the non-glandular. It is a brownish or orange-coloured tubule, which is very much convoluted, as Hutton described, and forms a spherical mass, around which are wound the numerous coils of the intestine. It is soft and of a somewhat slimy consistency, and its cells secrete a great quantity of mucilaginous material.
At the commencement of the penis is situated the prostate (pr). It is a much-convoluted blindly-ending tube, the distal half pure-white in colour, the proximal half bright-yellow. From this end a slender duct leads away, which, after running in the substances of the muscular wall of the penis, communicates with its cavity near its opening to the exterior.
From the above description it will be seen that the condition of the genital duct in Amphibola agrees with the most primitive condition in the Euthyneura—that is, the duct is a sperm-oviduct throughout its length. To this type of duct Lang (1900) and Pelseneer (1906) give the name “monaulic.”
As far as I can ascertain, the only other primitive pulmonate closely related to Amphibola which exhibits a monaulic type of duct is Siphonaria. Cottrell (1911) shows that the reproductive organs of this genus differ from those of Amphibola in three chief features: There is no separate albumen-gland, but the common duct is itself glandular, and the much-folded walls of this duct constitute the albumen-gland; the common duct enters the penis close to its external pore and not at its distal extremity; and there is a large spermatheca, the long duct of which opens into the penis close to the common duct. The absence in Amphibola of a distinct and definite spermatheca seems a peculiarity.
Limnaea, which has affinities with Amphibola, has a “diaulic” type of genital duct which cannot be compared with that of Amphibola. In Chilina, another primitive pulmonate, the reproductive system of which Lang (1900) figures and describes, the genital duct is “diaulic,” the openings of the sperm-duct and oviduct being at some distance from each other. Considering the close relationship of Amphibola and Chilina, one would have expected a greater similarity in their reproductive systems.
Quoy and Gaimard (1832) described the reproductive system of Amphibola. They called the hermaphrodite gland the “ovary,” and the hermaphrodite duct the “oviduct.” The albumen-gland they named “testicule,” and the genital duct which runs up on the right side the “uterus.” The opening of the female portion of the duct they figure on the right side of the body, to the left of the anus. The penis they describe as opening near the eye, in the place where the right tentacle would be if it were represented in the figure.
Hutton (1879) correctly describes the hermaphrodite gland and the hermaphrodite duct. The albumen-gland he says consists of two parts—an albumen-gland proper and an accessory gland. The albumen-gland proper opens into the hermaphrodite duct by a duct. According to him, the hermaphrodite duct appeared to divide beyond the albumen-gland into a large sacculated “oviduct,” and a narrower but still broad “vas deferens” (which is the “common duct” of my account), but he could not satisfy himself as to how the oviduct left the hermaphrodite duct. He describes it as running along the left of the rectum, to which it is firmly attached. “It appears to open inside the respiratory cavity,” but of this he
says he was by no means certain. In a later paper (1882) he says he found an animal with the oviduct distended with eggs, and it showed clearly that his supposed “accessory gland” was the commencement of the oviduct.
I can find no opening of a female duct in the position figured by Quoy and Gaimard, nor do I find any oviduct as described by Hutton. What he supposes to be the commencement of the oviduct is the lower end of the genital duct; and serial sections in this region prove this to be so.
Sections across the right side of the body show no trace of a duct between the rectum and the genital duct, whereas sections across the genital duct itself show the existence of a deep fold in its wall, which serves to divide the duct into two portions, presumably, during the passage of the ova and spermatozoa.
Hutton (1879) says the eggs of Amphibola are “lodged on the exterior of the mantle in a circular patch near the opening of the renal organ. After fertilization they acquire a thick coat which gives them a bluish-white pearly appearance.” These are evidently the fluorescent particles I described in connection with the kidney, where I mentioned that they were products of the hypobranchial gland. They are not eggs, as I have observed them in every animal without exception that I have examined during the year. Moreover, they do not resemble eggs in the slightest degree.
In his second article (1882) Hutton says he found the oviduct so distended with eggs that he was able to trace its connection with the hermaphrodite duct. The “eggs” he found in the oviduct were, I think, the eggs of a parasitic Trematode. I have found them several times, and in some animals they are so numerous on the right side in the muscular region of the body-wall between the rectum and the genital duct that both the rectum and the genital duct are hidden from view—i.e., in the position of Hutton's supposed “oviduct.”
At present I am making systematic observations on Amphibola so as to ascertain at what time the ova are laid and how they get to the exterior. Every month I collect and preserve the animals in order to cut sections of the reproductive organs and ascertain at what time of the year the eggs are laid. If successful I shall try to follow out-the development of the eggs as far as possible.
Fig. 7.—The end of a tentacle, with the eye, cleared and mounted entire, c, carbonate of lime; l, lens; p, pigment; t, tip of tentacle.
Embedded in the connective tissue and amongst muscles in all parts of the body are numerous bodies composed of carbonate of lime. They are extremely abundant, especially on the mantle-edge. They vary in size, the smallest ones being found embedded in the base of the tentacle below the eye (fig. 7). They vary in shape also, some being spherical, others
ovoid, and others again more or less rhomboidal. Examined under the high power some exhibit fine circular striations. When treated with acetic acid they dissolve, giving off large bubbles of carbon dioxide, which can be plainly seen with the naked eye.
Bouvier, E., 1892. Sur l'organisation des Amphiboles, Bull. Soc. Philom. Paris, 8, vol. 4.
Cooke, A. H., 1895. Cambridge Natural History, Mollusca.
Cottrell, A. J., 1911. Anatomy of Siphonaria obliquata (Sowerby), Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. 43, pp. 582–94.
Hutton, F. W., 1879. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 5, vol. 3, p. 181.
Hutton, F. W., 1882. Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. 14, p. 156.
Lang, A., 1900. Lehrbuch der vergleichenden Anatomie d. wirbellose Thiere (2nd ed.), Mollusca, by Karl Hescheler.
MacMunn, C. A., 1900. On the Gastric Gland of Mollusca and Decapod Crustacea, Phil. Trans. Roy. Soc., vol. 193B.
Naef, A., 1911. Studien z. generellen Morphol. d. Mollusken, in Spengel's Ergebnisse u. Fortschrifte d. Zoologie.
Pelseneer, P., 1895. Hermaphroditism in Mollusca, Quart. Journ. Micr. Sci., vol. 37, p. 19.
Pelseneer, P., 1906. Mollusca, in Lankester's Treatise on Zoology.
Perrier, E., 1897. Traité de Zoologie.
Quoy and Gaimard, 1832. Voyage de l'Astrolabe, vol. 2, p. 196; pl. 16, figs. 1–9.
Schneider, A, 1902. Lehrbuch d. vergleach Histologie d. Thiere, p. 570.
Suter, H., 1913. Manual of the New Zealand Mollusca, pp. 596–97, Wellington.
Suter, H., 1915. Manual of the New Zealand Mollusca, Atlas of Plates, pl. 49, figs. 9, 9a, Wellington. |
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Granola seems to be the go-to snack of hippies, hikers, and health nuts alike. Store-bought granola tends to be full of sugar and other not-so-desirable ingredients. Thankfully, making healthy granola at home is easy and economical.
There's something about October that just screams for pumpkin and candy! Thankfully, that indulgent combination can happen at home without being too time-consuming. These somewhat healthy truffles are bite-size balls of delicious fall flavor.
Does anything go together as well as chocolate and peanut butter? We don't think so! Moist, grain-free brownies combine with a creamy peanut butter filling to bring you a bite-sized treat that's perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
Ricotta pancakes are reminiscent of Russian farmers cheese -- syrniki -- a beloved staple of kids and adults alike. High in fiber, gluten-free, & tasty, these grain-free pancakes with ricotta cheese are an easy recipe for a coconut flour newbie!
The post Grain-Free Ricotta Pancakes Made With Coconut Flour appeared first on Wildly Organic.
These homemade nut butter cups are a richer, darker, and dare I say, healthier? version of the infamous peanut butter cup because they're made with easily digestible, soaked and dehydrated nut butter, dark chocolate, and a secret superfood ingredient!
The post Homemade Dark Chocolate Nut Butter Cups (with a secret superfood ingredient!) appeared first on Wildly Organic.
Kefir cheese is a great way to use up extra milk kefir. You get the same gut healthy benefits from this versatile cheese. You'll soon learn how to use kefir cheese on toast, bagels, crackers, veggies, and even cheesecake!
A fall salad is a very different meal than its spring and summer cousins.This salad, made with filling wild rice and juice apples, is a chilled dish --a hearty but cold meal or side dish for the warm days of early Autumn.
Homemade mozzarella is the best thing you will ever eat. I don't think I am exaggerating. There is something very satisfying about making your own cheese in your own kitchen. And it's even more satisfying to eat it!
Breakfast doesn't get easier or more nutritious than a big bowl of homemade gluten-free granola. This coconut gluten-free granola is as good as a snack as it is tossed with yogurt or floating in milk. |
Use These Ideas To Build A Pesticide Free Organic Garden
While caring in your natural backyard entails many massive, day-long duties, it additionally requires smaller jobs that must be carried out more regularly. Maintain a good handle on the minor wants of your backyard to be able to make good use of brief intervals of free time. When you could have a couple of minutes to spare, why not use them weeding, pruning or performing different garden upkeep tasks?
Deal with your containers. You do not have to spend a lot of money on containers: you can reuse widespread objects as pots. Be sure you clear your containers completely and disinfect them to keep away from illnesses. Drill just a few holes within the bottom so that the additional water may be drained. A mix of aspirin and water will help your ailing crops. An aspirin and a half, combined with a couple of gallons of water, will do wonderful issues for your crops. You merely have to spray the answer in your crops to assist them in warding off diseases. Apply at three week intervals.
In case you are preparing to maneuver your indoor organic backyard outdoors, an ideal tip is to begin making ready your crops one week ahead of time. Transfer them to a shaded area in your house for a few hours on a heat day. Your purpose is to steadily increase your crops’ publicity to gentle. Then, depart them outdoors in a single day at the end of the week. This can ensure your crops survival.
Don’t waste your time and energy carrying a hose that’s onerous to place away.
Cover bare spots whenever you plant. Once you put a new plant into your organic backyard, do not depart the earth naked where you planted. Ensure you mulch the world throughout your new plant. This may defend it while it begins to develop. It should additionally maintain the ground moist. An organic garden won’t have the attraction of a pond with those orange-colored koi, however you’ll definitely get much more out of your backyard “actually” than you may get out of ornamental fish or some fancy stone tiles within the yard. Make the most of organics by studying the way to backyard from the article above.
If you end up organic gardening, ask your children to help. Serving to a backyard develop is an excellent learning expertise for kids, and it allows your loved ones to spend time together while creating wholesome, nutritious meals. If you wish to grow vegetables, but shouldn’t have the room, take into account planting greens that grow on a vine. Vegetables like squash, melons, and tomatoes will be educated to grow up alongside a trellis or fence. You can make use of vertical space to get the vegetable garden that you want.
Know your soil. Before you being planning and planting your garden, you’ll want to check the pH of the soil. The acidity or alkalinity of the soil has a huge effect on the sorts of crops that may be profitable on the plot. Take readings from a number of completely different areas of the backyard as pH can differ from spot to spot. Alter the soil or your plants as vital based on what you discover.
Plant barely more than you will want. Pests and poor climate can diminish yields out of your garden, particularly in case you are new to natural gardening. To account for this possibility, plant a bit of greater than what you have to. However, don’t go overboard, whether it is successful, you would have extra greens than you might probably use. An excellent trick for organic gardeners and a neat way to reuse plastic milk jugs are to use them as a type of self irrigation for your garden. All it’s worthwhile to do is poke little holes into the bottom of plastic 1 gallon jugs, bury the jugs next to your crops and make sure to leave a gap. Fill the jugs permitting the water to seep slowly into the bottom.
This helps to guard your crops from caterpillar damage later in the rising season. Variety makes for a greater compost pile. Are you able to now use things that work along with your natural backyard? |
Landscaping Recommendation Anyone Is Able To Use
Add new mulch to your garden repeatedly. Mulch helps to maintain your plant’s moist, and it could repel bugs as properly. In addition, it’s pretty to look at a freshly mulched garden. You will also slow down the expansion of weeds by keeping your garden mulched on a regular basis As you’ll be able to see, there are numerous simple issues that you can do to significantly impact the enchantment of your house to these driving, strolling or simply stopping by. It’s the first thing people see and good landscaping can vastly enhance the value of your own home.
Peat moss is a plant’s greatest friend in terms of survivability. Peat moss offers floor cowl while also providing obligatory plant vitamins. Moreover, peat moss may be enticing when used properly. It is very important have measurements in hand whenever you visit a garden provide middle to purchase materials. These measurements will help you calculate precisely how much of any specific product you want. It is significantly better to have the ability to buy correctly the first time, moderately than needing to make repeated trips because you guessed improper about your wants.
If you want to change your landscaping, consider using vegetation which can be native to your area. Most of these plants are pests immune and drought resistant. This implies you can be using less water for maintenance of your landscaping and less pesticide. It can also enable you with lowered fertilizer costs as a result of these plants are adapted to the soil in your space. In case you wish to add privateness by planting trees in your entrance yard, buy species that develop quickly and have bushy foliage. Similar to the identify says, these trees develop much faster than common bushes do. The weeping cherry is among the hottest of the quick-rising trees accessible.
A great landscaping undertaking need not be limited to crops and flowers.
Somewhere at the back of your thoughts, you realize that you need to do extra to make your home presentable. Even if you assume it will take a fortune to take action, this text has shown you that you can do it for a really affordable value and with just some days, right here and there. Invite wildlife into your backyard. Birds, squirrels and butterflies can add magnificence to a yard, and they’re going to also profit your crops. You can invite them into your yard by leaving out meals, strategically inserting fowl feeders, and having sources of water spread throughout the garden. You will love watching the animals and listening to the birds every time you enter your backyard.
Plan out your panorama earlier than running to the store. For many people, taking a look at vegetation and other items is probably the most fun a part of revamping a yard. Resist the urge to place this step first. As an alternative, write out a plan that components in the correct plant heights and locations, seasonal blooming, and completely different foliage color schemes that can make your backyard “pop.” If you want to boost the look of your outside house, you may need to contemplate installing a rock garden. Not only are they fairly inexpensive to create, but they’re additionally simple to arrange yourself. You could even use stones, or rocks which are already in your property.
To prevent losing money, plan your landscape on paper earlier than operating out to the nursery. Design a rough sketch of your landscape, this manner you can figure out exactly what supplies you want in certain areas. Buying on impulse will leave you feeling empty as your wallet becomes lighter and you end up messing up your plan. If you wish to promote your house or just make it look nicer, an excellent landscaping job will do the trick. Whether you propose on hiring an expert landscaper or need to do the job yourself, the data in this article will get you off to an ideal begin.
It should also enable you with lowered fertilizer prices as a result of these plants are tailored to the soil in your space. Ensure you plan thoroughly earlier than you begin landscaping. |
Beer Can Chicken
For me, summertime is all about getting outdoors and enjoying the weather. It also means outdoor cooking. If there is ever a choice between the oven or the grill, you know what the answer is going to be. Food just tastes better with a bit of smoke on it. It’s also a way more social experience. Part of the fun of grilling is hanging out with friends and family and getting to enjoy a few beers while you cook.
I recently posted a recipe for smoked chicken, and to be honest, this is pretty similar. I wanted to share it though because whenever I make beer can chicken, people seem to be obsessed with it. I don’t know if the beer contributes much flavour to the chicken, but I do know that it’s a fail safe way to make perfect chicken. The theory is that as the beer evaporates, it keeps the chicken moist. It definitely makes sense. It’s the same principle behind keeping a water pan in your smoker, a practice that many pitmasters swear by.
Either way, I find that cooking a whole chicken on the bone with skin always results in a juicy finished product. Just stick a thermometer in the thigh and when it’s at 165°F, take it off and let it rest a few minutes before slicing it up.
Beer can chicken is all about the fun of cooking it. You could just as easily put a whole chicken on the grill and get pretty comparable results, but there’s just something about cooking chicken on a can of beer. You really haven’t lived until you’ve done it.
Since January, I’ve been using my Traeger and loving it. Everything I make on it turns out incredible. If you’re in the market for a new grill, I’d highly recommend looking into one. They’ve got a promotion going on right now for fathers day for $100 off a pro series and $50 off Bronson and Tailgater 20 models so check them out at your local dealer. You can make this on any grill, but the smokiness from the Traeger is a nice touch.
Another thing I’ve been doing on the Traeger is throwing some halved lemons on while my other food is cooking. The citrus takes on a whole new flavor after it’s been smoked. It’s great on chicken, fish, and even potatoes.
I’ve used many different beers with beer can chicken before and to be honest, I don’t notice much of a difference. To be fair, I usually do bold spice rubs on them, which may overtake any beer flavour. If I wanted to really test it out, I’d just use a bit of salt and pepper. For these, I used a few different varieties of Ace Hill, a local Toronto beer. Feel free to use whichever beer you have on hand or like to drink.
The spice rub for this will give you plenty of extra. I like to make big batches to keep for later. You could definitely use a different rub than I did. With beer can chicken, just stick to the basics and you can wing everything else as you go. For this recipe, I used the spice rub in the link below but without the coffee. As you can tell, I also made 2 chickens, not 1.
Beer Can Chicken
- 1 whole chicken
- Spice Rub
- 1 can of beer
- Drizzle of olive oil
- 1 lemon, halved
Start by drizzling a bit of olive oil on the chicken and then coating it in your spice rub. You want to be generous with the rub and make sure you evenly cover the whole chicken. If you have time, you can allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for a few hours and up to overnight, but if not, try to give the chicken at least 30 minutes with the rub while you preheat your grill.
Preheat your grill to 375°F. Crack open a can of beer, and drink about 1/4 of it. You don’t want the can to be full or it will overflow as it heats. Carefully place the chicken on top of the can taking care to make sure it balances. Transfer the chicken (with the can) to the grill and place the can right onto the grates. Close the grill and cook until the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part. The exact time will depend on the size of your chicken and grill, but for me, it usually takes 1.5-2 hours. Throw the lemon halves on at the end until they get a nice char to them, about 20 minutes.
When the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Very carefully remove the chicken from the can and then cut the chicken into halves, or quarters to serve. I like to serve my Jalapeño salsa Verde with this. |
Courtney Brown, Conservation Garden Park
Landscapes in Utah are gradually transitioning from all lawn to modern-looking Localscapes® with a variety of plants, gathering areas, activity zones, and pathways. The shift in landscape style also means a shift in the timing and techniques for maintenance. Most Utahns are familiar with how to care for lawn – we fertilize a couple times a year, aerate in the fall, apply water when it looks dry, mow when it looks long, and spray weeds as they come up. But it’s those areas of the landscape that are outside the lawn that take us out of our comfort zones. Rather than fearing and limiting planting beds, see them as an opportunity to make your yard stand out.
It’s best to do something for the yard at least weekly throughout spring, summer, and fall, but there’s more work to be done in spring than any other season. Plan on spending more time working in the yard during the spring months, much less time in the summer, and slightly more time in the fall. Isn’t this when you would rather be outside anyway? Here are the essentials:
Tree Pruning – As needed, remove any dead, crossing, or diseased branches. You can also thin or shape trees by selectively pruning away branches of various sizes throughout the tree, but don’t remove more than 1/3 of the total branches in one year. And always wait two years after planting new trees before doing any pruning.
Large (Woody) Shrub Pruning – Every other year, remove any dead, crossing, or diseased branches while maintaining the natural form of the plant. The size and shape of shrubs can be managed by selective pruning.
Ornamental Grasses – Cut back to 8 inches above the ground. This can also be done in the fall or winter if the grass becomes unsightly.
Perennials – Cut back to 2 inches above the ground. Evergreen perennials are an exception to this.
Lawn – Aerate and fertilize. Spring is a great time to aerate the lawn because the soil is moist, and the tines can penetrate deeper. For compacted or high-traffic lawn areas, aeration can also be repeated in fall, or even more frequently.
Apply pre-emergent herbicide to mulch areas to reduce weeds. After pre-emergent has been watered into the soil, then left undisturbed, it creates an invisible barrier that prevents seeds from germinating. Use it in planter beds and gravel areas to reduce your weeding time.
Refresh mulch every other year or as needed to maintain a 3- to 4-inch thickness. A thick layer of mulch, whether it’s wood chips, gravel, decorative stone, or compost, helps retain moisture in the soil, reduce weeds, improve soil structure, and gives the planter bed a nice, finished look.
Another important thing to remember – there is no place for autopilot when it comes to good landscape maintenance. A nice-looking landscape requires careful thought, preparation, and hard work. A wise father once said, “Accept the fact that anything worth doing is going to take longer than you think.” |
US Food and Drug Administration / Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
The picnic and barbeque season traditionally begins on Memorial Day weekend. To protect yourself, your family, and friends from foodborne illness, practice safe food handling techniques when eating outdoors. Keep these tips in mind when preparing, storing, and cooking food for picnics and barbecues.
When You Transport Food
- Keep cold food cold. Place cold food in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. Cold food should be held at or below 40°F.
- Consider packing beverages in one cooler and perishable foods in another.
- Meat, poultry, and seafood may be packed while it is still frozen so that it stays colder longer. Be sure to keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood securely wrapped so their juices don’t contaminate cooked foods or foods eaten raw such as fruits and vegetables.
- Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water, including those with skins and rinds that are not eaten. Packaged fruits and vegetables labeled “ready-to-eat,” “washed,” or “triple washed” need not be washed.
- Rub firm-skin fruits and vegetables under running tap water or scrub with a clean vegetable brush while rinsing with running tap water.
- Dry fruits and vegetables with a clean cloth towel or paper towel.
- Keep the cooler in the air-conditioned passenger compartment of your car, rather than in a hot trunk. Limit the times the cooler is opened.
Before You Begin
- Food safety begins with hand-washing even in outdoor settings. And it can be as simple as using a water jug, some soap, and paper towels.
- Consider using moist disposable towelettes for cleaning your hands.
- Keep all utensils and platters clean when preparing food.
Safe Grilling Tips
- Marinate foods in the refrigerator, not on the counter or outdoors. If some of the marinade is to be used as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion separately before adding the raw meat, poultry, or seafood. Don’t reuse marinade.
- Don’t use the same platter and utensils that previously held raw meat or seafood to serve cooked meats and seafood.
- If you partially cook food in the microwave, oven, or stove to reduce grilling time, do so immediately before the food goes on the hot grill.
- When it’s time to cook the food, cook it thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to be sure.
- Beef, veal, and lamb steaks and roasts-145°F.
- Ground pork and ground beef-160°F.
- Poultry breasts-165°F.
- Whole poultry (take measurement in the thigh)-165°F.
- Fin fish-145°F or until the flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork.
- Shrimp, lobster, and crabs-the meat should be pearly and opaque.
- Clams, oysters, and mussels-until the shells are open.
- Grilled food can be kept hot until served by moving it to the side of the grill rack, just away from the coals where it can overcook.
When You Serve Food
- Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot.
- Do not use a plate that previously held raw meat, poultry, or seafood for anything else unless the plate has first been washed in hot, soapy water.
- Hot food should be kept hot, at or above 140°F. Wrap well and place in an insulated container.
- Foods like chicken salad and desserts in individual serving dishes can also be placed directly on ice, or in a shallow container set in a deep pan filled with ice. Drain off water as ice melts and replace ice frequently.
- Don’t let perishable food sit out longer than 2 hours.
- Food should not sit out for more than 1 hour in temperatures above 90°F
For more information on food safety: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov |
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No need to add a lot of fat to your turkey burgers to keep them moist! I have found the perfect way to not only make them fast and easy, but these are also healthy and delicious! Easy enough for a weeknight meal, and a perfect reason to skip the drive thru and eat at home!
AIMEE'S EASY MOUTH-WATERING MOIST TURKEY BURGERS
The secret to these burgers not drying out? The Greek yogurt.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup Cabot lowfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 Tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- hot habanero, jalapeño cheddar or pepper jack cheese, sliced (use your favorite kind of cheese!)
- hamburger buns
- sliced tomato
- baby spinach
- cooking spray
Heat a skillet medium-high to high heat. Mix ground turkey, Greek yogurt, worcestershire sauce, cayenne and shallot together. Form your burgers into 4 larger sized burgers, or about 8 small burgers; then spray skillet with cooking spray (or use 1 Tablespoon olive oil). Add burgers to pan and cook for about 5 minutes, then flip burgers. Cook for another 4 minutes, then add cheese slices to the top of burger. Add a lid to the pan and allow the cheese to melt; about 1 minute. Spread Greek yogurt on buns, add baby spinach, sliced avocado and tomato, burger and enjoy! |
by Ann Barnes, EMGV
If Master Gardeners had a mantra, it might be “Right plant, right place”. Following this rule helps plants to thrive, can decrease diseases and pests, and may cut down on the time you spend in watering, pruning, and doing other kinds of yard maintenance.
Before you can choose the right plant, we need to take a good look at the “place”. Yes, gardeners need to do a little homework. Look at the area you wish to plant. How much sun does the area get per day? Is the soil rich in organic material, or high in clay or rocks? (Remember, you can add organic material less desirable soil to improve it.) After a rain, does the area drain well or stay moist for a long time? Will plants have a wind break from a house, fence, or hedge? Are there tree roots that will compete with your new plants for water or moisture? Do you have deer, rabbits, or other animals that may forage in your yard? Don’t forget to take measurements of your space and do a soil test!
Next, think about what the function of your landscape will be. Do you want everything to be “easy care”, or do you enjoy spending time tending your plants? Are children and pets going to be playing in the space? Will the new plants need to hide an unattractive view, provide shade, or create privacy? Do you want colorful blooms or soothing shades of green?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you can begin searching for the “right plant(s)”. Although it is tempting to go to the garden center and buy all the plants that catch your eye, look for plants that fit your place. Most plants will have a tag showing the Latin name, common name, mature height and width, light requirements, and other growing conditions. If tags are missing, ask a friendly nursery employee or search the internet for more information.
When you find plants that you like, look at the mature height and width of each kind. When you plant, space everything far enough apart to accommodate mature sizes of your plants. One common landscaping mistake is planting a cute little shrub in front of your home without taking its full size into account. In ten years, you may find that the shrub is extending over your front steps, blocking your windows, and crowding everything in its path. If you have to prune multiple times per year just so you can get to the door, you do not have the right plant in the right place. Some small perennials may spread quickly or reseed prolifically, and those will also need to be tended frequently if not given enough space. The right plant for each place will need room to grow.
Next, look at light, water, and soil requirements. If you have shade, choose plants that grow best in shade, and if you have sun, pick sun loving plants. Drought tolerant plants are well suited for dry areas but may not grow well in a wet spot. Group plants together by their growing needs – put plants that need more moisture near one another so you can water more efficiently, for example, and keep the “heavy feeders” together so that you can fertilize only the plants that need it.
Finally, think about how the plants you choose will look when planted near each other. Make sure contrast between leaf shapes, sizes, colors, and flowers are pleasing to you. Some gardeners prefer to stick to a color scheme and to repeat plants throughout a landscape, while others crave variety. Choose plants that you like, since you will be seeing them each day.
Many readers of this blog already have an established landscape. It is still worthwhile to observe your property to answer the above questions. If a plant in your yard is not thriving or is a maintenance problem, you may discover that it is not in the right place. If that is the case, simply moving the plant could be the solution. If transplanting isn’t feasible, you will need to decide if it is possible to compensate for the problem – by watering more or less, amending the soil, pruning, or otherwise altering your “place” to suit your plant. However, this won’t always be possible, and it is OK to remove a plant if it isn’t working in your landscape. Don’t be afraid to change your landscape as your plants grow or your tastes change. |
Sean insists on getting me coffee. As we walk back to his car, he wraps his coat over my shoulders.
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“Really, I’m fine. It’s better this way.” I try to shirk it off and give the wool coat back to him, but Sean puts it on me again, pressing my shoulders tight.
“No, it’s not. Avery, there are other things to do—ways to feel something besides pain.” Sean glances at me out of the corner of his eye. When we get to his car, he pulls the door open and holds it for me.
“What makes you think that’s what I’m doing?” I stop in front of him Sean’s warm breath turns white as he sighs, looking down at me.
“Can you seriously ask me that question? Now you know why I avoid New York. Now you know why I’m a deranged fuck that can’t get involved with anyone, the reason why I was looking for a call girl. When she died, it left a hole in my chest. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t feel it pulling, trying to suck me under. Some days I let it. Some days I can’t stand the thought of tomorrow, of going through the motions again.” Sean speaks with confidence, but his eyes say something else. His hand is clutched into a tight fist. He holds it over his heart, protecting what’s left.
The pit of my stomach falls away as he speaks. I know exactly what he’s talking about. “So you hired me. That’s how you deal with it?” His gaze falls to the side and he nods. A year ago, I would have condemned him for saying something like that, but not now. I’ve been through too much to judge him Sean’s protecting himself, forcing himself to feel something besides grief. It is the same thing that I do, leaving with no coat.
“So, your sweater and lack of coat might not stem entirely from money issues, am I right?” Sean presses his forehead to mine. A light smile crosses his lips.
I look up at him from under my lashes. “No one has noticed that before. I’m not even sure that I knew what I was doing. I understand feeling cold. I understand what it means and what I should do But, my God—Sean I don’t understand this.” I gesture at the grave yard. “I don’t know what to do Days pass and turn into months, but nothing changes. It’s not better. I feel myself getting chipped away. Soon there will be nothing left to hold on to.”
My throat tightens as I speak and I drop my gaze. It feels like someone is strangling me. Admitting that I don’t know how to cope with all this makes me feel weak, like I’ll falter and fade away. This entire time, I’ve carried this massive burden on my own two shoulders. I’ve never said it to anyone, and here I am confessing my deepest secret to the guy who bought me.
Sean pulls me against his chest and holds on tight. I can barely feel his touch, I’m so numb. He squeezes me tighter and tighter until all the air is forced out of my lungs. That’s when he loosens his
grip. “There is more to hold onto than you think.” He kisses my forehead and releases me.
I’m aware of the warmth of his moist lips on my cold skin, but I can’t feel the kiss. It has nc comfort, no joy. It’s just a touch, like pressing my finger to the tip of a needle. I’ve done that, just to see if I could feel the sharp pain of the needle when it pricked my skin. Instead, the only indication that I should stop was a bead of blood that dripped down my palm
Sean’s voice pulls me from the memory. “Avery, let’s not waste the day just trying to muddle through it. Let’s do something.” Sean smiles softly at me. “We’ll start with coffee and go from there.” I nod.
Sean holds the door to his shiny black sports car open and I slip into the seat. When Sean gets in and turns on the car, I ask, “No motorcycle?”
“I only ride when your car is in danger of being stolen and right now,” he lifts his chin toward my car, “it looks like it’s in its element.” His voice is lighter, his tone teasing.
“Hey!” I smile at him and add, “Don’t dis my car. She’s been with me through thick and thin.”
“I’ll have her returned to your dorm while we’re out so she can continue to attract scallywags and thieves.” Sean starts the car and glances over at me with a playful look on his face.
I snort laugh, not expecting his lightness. “Scallywags?”
“Yes, and that would be me. The day we met, your little car attracted both types of very virtuous men.” The corner of his mouth twitches, like he wants to smile.
“Yeah, normally I’d shove everyone in the backseat and cruise up and down Deer Park Avenue blasting the radio.”
That makes him smile. He pulls away from the cemetery and for the first time in a long time, I feel like I might be okay. |
Thanksgiving may be over but it is my favorite holiday. I love the fall colors, the warm oven, the amazing smells coming from the kitchen, and the chance to give thanks for abundance. Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating — and it’s also a time for overeating. The average American eats 3,000 calories and 229 grams of fat during this one meal. But if you’re watching your waistline, you can enjoy a delicious, traditional meal on Thanksgiving and Christmas while still managing to avoid the worst caloric offenders.
Dark Meat Turkey with Skin
Dark meat tends to be tastier and more moist on a turkey because of the higher fat content. But that also means it’s more calorically dense than white meat. White meat has only 115 calories per three-ounce serving, vs. 150 calories for dark meat.
And with all of that delicious skin, you could be piling on up to 44 grams of fat per serving. If you must have some dark meat, take comfort in knowing that dark meat contains predominantly the heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, plus contains more iron, zinc and selenium than white meat.
Substitute: White meat with no skin
Candied Yams and Sweet Potatoes
Yams and sweet potatoes eaten alone aren’t bad for you – they’re packed with vitamins and fiber. But when we prepare them in the traditional “candied” fashion, they end up loaded with white sugar, brown sugar, butter and/or marshmallows. You can cut the fat and calories by substituting the butter with half-and-half, or better yet, enjoy the natural flavor of the starchy food without any of the “candied” additions.
Substitute: Lightly seasoned, baked sweet potatoes
Americans have convinced themselves that their turkey meal is too dry without gravy – a terrible price to pay considering that gravy is just all salt and fat and has no nutritional value. If you must put gravy on your Thanksgiving table, choose canned gravy. Canned gravy tends to be lighter and healthier homemade gravy, and contains as little as 25 calories per quarter-cup serving. By contrast, classic homemade gravy made from turkey-pan drippings might contain a whopping 200+ calories per serving. Remember, though, even canned gravy is all salt, sugar and preservatives.
Substitute: Salt and pepper
With so many delicious, uniquely Thanksgiving foods to eat on Turkey Day, why load up on dinner rolls? Not only does white bread contain little nutritional value, but it also typically goes with butter. And if you’re thinking about an even unhealthier option like fluffy, buttery Crescent rolls, you’re adding more fat and calories.
Substitute: Something more uniquely Thanksgiving
Cranberries are loaded with important vitamins and fiber, but cranberry sauce—especially out of a can—can more than double your sugar intake. Pop question: Which is more calorically dense, a quarter cup of canned cranberry sauce or a quarter cup of canned gravy? Surprise! The cranberry sauce has a staggering 110 calories, vs. only about 25 calories for the gravy.
Substitute: Homemade cranberry sauce that’s light on sugar
Next Thanksgiving and this Christmas, do your body a favor and choose the lighter holiday fare. Eating white meat with no skin, baked sweet potatoes, canned gravy, and homemade cranberry sauce, while avoiding the bread, will cut your calorie intake by the hundreds. |
This banana pancake has a creamier texture than regular pancakes. It’s moist and fluffy and very easy to make. The combination of molten chocolate and banana is absolutely delicious and makes it good for both breakfast, dessert, or maybe even a late night snack!
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup soymilk
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 ripe banana mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- pinch of salt and cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons of semisweet chocolate chips
Directions: (makes 6 pancakes)
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Combine flour mixture into banana mixture; batter will be slightly lumpy.
- Stir in chocolate chips into the batter.
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Cook until pancakes are golden brown on both sides; serve hot. |
Rhodes Waterside Dental was founded in 2005 with view to creating a friendly close knit family of staff and patients; more than a decade on we are still going strong!
We recognise each person is an individual with different dental needs. Through our caring, professional advice and our diverse range of services, we are dedicated and committed to ensuring your specific needs are met.
Through better oral health, we can start the journey to improving your general well-being.
For a broken tooth, the best thing to do is to store the fragment in milk and seek a dentist as soon as possible. Irrespective of size, a broken fragment can often be rebonded to the remaining tooth, which will achieve the best colour and shape match.
If a tooth is knocked out, remain calm and locate the lost tooth. Avoid overhandling and only handle by the crown (not the roots). If the root is dirty, gently suck the tooth or rinse in milk before replanting it in the mouth immediately (a delay of more than 30mins could greatly jeopardize the prognosis of the tooth). Hold the tooth in place and seek a dentist immediately.
If you are unable to replant the tooth, keep it moist by putting the tooth in milk or place it in the mouth next to the cheek and seek dental treatment.
This depends on the severity of your symptoms, frequency of pain episodes, effects on neighbouring teeth and your overall dental health.
A clinical assessment by a dentist will determine whether there is a need for removal.
At Rhodes Waterside Dental, we will discuss the urgency of removal and which setting best suits your case.
Yes, if done professionally.
At Rhodes Waterside Dental, we use the 10% Opalescence professional tooth whitening system that has been approved as safe and effective by the American Dental Association and the US Food and Drug Association.
This system produces effective and sustainable results. Patients may experience some degree of sensitivity during the process but this is a negligible side effect and is totally reversible. |
This ‘bread’ is absolutely AMAZING !!
So quick to make and so tempting to eat straight out of the oven which unfortunately gave me a dose of the hiccups. Moist, chocolatey, rich and very filling with no gluten (no flour at all) and you can avoid dairy if you use dairy-free chocolate chips. I used cashew butter instead of sunflower seed butter as I tend to have large quantities of this in the cupboard, and I used 90% dark chocolate chips. I really didn’t expect the result to be so very tasty and it is one I will be making again, and again.
1 cup sunflower seed butter (I used cashew butter)
¼ cup honey
¼ teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cacao
1 tablespoon cinnamon
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons chocolate chips (dairy free or the darkest you can buy)
¼ teaspoon baking soda
Preheat oven to 350°. Line an 8” x 8” baking tin.
Cream together the butter, vanilla and honey.
Add in the eggs, one at a time.
Once the batter is creamy, add the cacao powder, baking soda, sea salt, and cinnamon. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
Pour batter into the lined baking dish and sprinkle with chocolate chips if using.
Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
Lift out with lining paper and leave to cool before slicing into chunks.
This might be called Breakfast Bread, but it is more ‘any-time-of-day’ bread in this household!!
Recipe adapted from PrimalPaleo.com |
The best summer wines from around the world
KISHORE AND SMITA IYENGAR waltz with exhilaratingly delightful world class boutique blushful and summery wines from around the world that uplift many a fine celebrative sunshine mood!
Valle D’Aosta, the smallest northwestern region of Italy ringed by the Alps, bordering France and Switzerland has high altitude cleft-furrowed boutique vineyards that produce limited edition, high quality cold climate whites that are savored mostly in the region.
Undulating Alpine pastures juxtapose with ‘runaway’ vineyards, freshly harvested grapes and several local co-operative and boutique wineries in the valley. At Caves Mont Blanc de Morgex et La Salle at their winery in La Ruine our boutique wine tasting was conducted by ace winemaker and innovator Nicola Del Negro who creates an array of amazing sparkling, still and dessert wines from just one single white grape stock, -the Prie Blanc, a unique achievement. It’s remarkable how these cold climate wines owe their birth to vineyards on seventy degree Alpine slopes of the surrounding Valle D’Aosta, the highest in Europe.
The perfect Spumante (sparkling white wine) embodied by their ‘Blanc du Blanc Brut’ created through the Metodo Classico offered exhilarating bouquets of white rose, pineapple, hay and green bamboo. On quaffing, we discovered mellow citrus and heather flavors headed on by strawberry. Their still white wine- ‘Caves Mont Blanc’ Bianco was equally interesting, presenting us with distinct lime and jasmine bouquets going on to grapefruit, green apple and grass flavors on the back palate. Superlative. ‘The Piagne’ white also created from Prie Blanc grapes contrasted with kiwi and guava on the taste buds. Ideal whites with the finest Fontina cheese and stream trout fillet for your summer sojourns!
VIRIDIAN VALLEY WOWS
The fleeting rain edged our enthusiasm for great wines as we headed across the Sahyadri hills to Sanjegaon in Maharashtra’s Nashik district in western India, to the Grover Zampa Vineyards. A crystalline crispness in the atmosphere created by contrasting landscapes and lush greenery uplifted our wine tastings here. The much acclaimed, chilled sparkling Zampa Soiree Brut welcomed us with its remarkable lily, wet grass and ananas bouquet. The svelte, dry hay tinge complimented with lemony green apple flavors refreshed our palates. In their wide angled, uber chic glass-covered cellar door our cheery host Sumedh Singh Mandla –CEO uncorked two outstanding summery jewels in our honor. The first was the very distinguished, award winning Zampa Soiree Brut Rose, a thrillingly seductive sparkling number owning pedigree to Shiraz that opened out its red cherry fruit and apricot nose, going onto a more curious dusky and discreet white truffle, vanilla and peppermint flavors all the way. The next was a fine vintage, – a Vijay Amritraj Reserve Collection White, a superb barrel fermented Viognier with its unmistakable peach, apricot, vanilla and honey fragrances and impressive lemon rind and sweet lime palate.
After a tour of the winemaking process and barrel room we settled to quaff two more of the Grover Zampa labels. The ‘Grover Art Collection Viognier’ with light fennel and jasmine bouquets encouraged by flavors of guava, green apple and citrus was enchanting to the hilt. Summery soiree, that. Sumedh introduced us to two more delightful whites in his stable, the pale and smooth Zampa Chenin Blanc with it’s velvety lemon rind and honeysuckle flavors and the Zampa Rose, a terrific blush with melon and sweet lime tinges, radiant strawberry palate.
The Zampa Sauvignon Blanc, a young ‘un with fabulous grassy aromas and soft aromatic fruity flavors did super with a slice of Manchego cheese from Barcelona. With great interest and curiosity we did quaff the elusive Grover Zampa One Tree Hill White which saluted the harmony of Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Chenin Blanc in a marriage of fine peony, white rose on the nose, while offering unmistakable richness in juniper, guava and light jasmine flavors. C’est La Vie!
SOUTH ISLAND SENSATIONS
In this dry cold snowy region of New Zealand where boutique wineries dot the rugged terrain, summery white specials always enchant the palates. At the famed Gibbston Valley Winery in Central Otago-South Island’s Queenstown, our tryst with their delightfully aromatic 2013 La Dulcinee, a fine Gewürztraminer displayed grassy aromas with lily, green apple flavors that lingered. Their excellent 2010 Reserve Pinot Noir, a distinguished vintage threw up oaky, musky bouquets with peppery and slightly tangy mushroom tastes on the back palate. Super numbers for summer sojourns.
In the foothills of the Simonsberg Peak at scenic Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands in South Africa in the Cape Town surrounds, is the iconic Rustenberg Estate, reputed worldwide for it’s signature wines, custom created with deep passion and expertise rating consistently high on world oenological charts. At the swish, stylish tasting lounge of this winery established in 1682, we sampled liquid wonders par excellence. Starting off with a wine of great distinction – the 2010 Brampton Beacon Bloomer Sauvignon Blanc named after the honorable champion Jersey bull Brampton Beacon Bloomer, who was imported from Canada by owners Peter and Pam Barlow to add zest and vitality to their existing herd in their Stellenbosch estates. Brampton with its stylish contemporary label and innovation identify with the natural vivacity of ample South African fruits. The wine itself is exhilarating with gooseberry, lychee, green asparagus and green apple flavors with springy aromas of lime and orange.
The fabulously heady 2008 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Chardonnay with its high 14.6 alcohol level is a winner on all counts. And what a wine! It was a well balanced 100% Chardonnay boasting significant mineral hints and smooth oak integration. The summery apricot, peach and orange peel aromas command revelry with flavors of almond, mild saffron and pine nut.
The smooth drive to Castell a tiny hilltop village in Bavaria, Southern Germany brought down a whoosh of seasonal showers soaking up the furrowed, inclined vineyards into a brilliance of zillion greens as we pulled up at the world famous Castell Winery.
A very wholesome wine tasting experience here offered us some of the finest labels in the Bavarian wine legacy by one of pioneers in the discipline. The summery light award winning white -2008 Schloss Casteller Bausch Mueller Thurgau – Kabinett Trocken (dry), and the celebrated 2009 Casteller Silvaner Kabinett (premium) were truly, outstandingly dry and aromatic. Known globally for their exceptional award-winning ‘Good Growth’ – GG Schlossberg Silvaner (GG-is the official hallmark of finest certification in wines from premium grape stock) both labels offered grand mountain floral notes matched with lingering grapefruit, passion fruit and light melon flavors.
The superlative 2009 ‘Apriles’ Silvaner ( in celebration of spring in April) was literally nectar to our tongues with fresh jasmine, lily, green bamboo and white rose bouquets. But the bespoke Castell finesse in fine vintage wines emerged in their grand reds, – the 2007 Spaetburgunder Trocken, their 2008 Reitsteig and the innovative 2008 Castell Cuvee blend. Worthy of scrutiny and appreciation were their strikingly immediate leather, tannin-powered nose, cedar and pine aromas with the peppery finish of Pinot Noir and wafting velvety back palates.
We saluted our Castell sojourn with an outstanding ‘Casteller Kugelspiel Silvaner 2007 Eiswein (Ice wine) with vanilla and honey notes and mesmerizing nectarine, chocolate and lemon rind hints lingering back palate.
In Australia, Tasmania’s gentle, cool winters offer superb summery wines that compete with global jewels with verve and strength. In the verdant Huon Valley near Hobart, Home Hill Winery wowed us with their 2014 Unwooded Chardonnay and their fine 2013 Kelly’s Reserve Chardonnay. Both white wines worked their apricot, white rose and guava flavors on our taste buds while the exhilarating bouquets of heather and moist grass scored prominently.
Their outstanding number, 2014 Estate Pinot Noir rated the best in Australia displayed lingering musky bouquets that went on to hay and smoked aromas. The prominent flavors of cinnamon, dark berries and truffles had a heady enchantment that reminded us of cool summer nights and jazz pianoforte renditions.
Kitzbuehel, Tirol. The very heart and soul of Austria’s and the world’s most enchanting Alpine wonderland.Our adventure with Austrian varietals took us onto interesting labels from the Wachau region. Winemaker Lagler presented his smooth Riesling 1000 Eimerberg Selection 2009 from Spitz, Wachau which offered us superb floral and fruity flavors of passion fruit and nectarine. The sunshine-fresh Gruener Veltliner Steinborz Smaragd 2009 from Spitz was almost silky lemony with hints of juniper. The Lagler Zweigelt Hartberg 2006 was a classic Zweigelt, -Austria’s familiar cheery yet assertive red wine with a woody, cassis palate.
Rounding up our variegated wine tasting evening, we concluded with winemaker Gertrude Seidl’s 2009 Riesling Ried Kalkofen from Spitz in Wachau. Provoking aromas of lime and light jasmine while flavors spelt honest honeysuckle and melon. The effusively talkative Gertrude offered us her well-blended 2008 Cuvee from Spitz-Wachau wth it’s accent on Zweigelt. The oaky, mild tannins lifted our palates further with lingering burnt wood after tastes. |
Skincare Ingredients: What does Hyaluronic Acid do for my skin?
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What is Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) , also known as Sodium Hyaluronate, is a sugar of the glycosaminoglycan family. Glycosaminoglycans or often abbreviated to the term ‘GAGS’, are substances that hold water in the skin and are our skin’s natural moisturisers.
Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin and is famously known for hold 100- times its weight in water. This makes its an excellent hydrator for skin, making skin look hydrated & healthier.
What is a Humectant
Humectants are groups of water loving agents, that are referred to as hydrophilic ingredients in skincare. These substances attract water to them, in skincare they make excellent hydrators.
The common humectants (attract water) found in moisturizers are:
What are the forms of Hyaluronic Acid
It is so easy these days to find skincare products with ‘Hyaluronic Acid’ in them. However Hyaluronic Acid comes in many forms and have different benefits to the skin. Ideally the best Hyaluronic Skincare Products have a combination of all forms.
What are the benefits of HA for the skin
Hyaluronic acid is a clear, gelatinous substance that is naturally produced by your body. The largest amounts of it are found in your skin (50%), connective tissue and eyes. Its main function is to retain water to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist. |
The annual Miss Texas Scholarship Pageant was held in Fort Worth the second week in June, to select a winner to compete in the 46th Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City the week after Labor Day. This year’s 57 contestants were college students between eighteen and twenty-three years old, each of whom had won a local pageant bearing the name of that town or area, and each of whom had polished a talent act to present for this next-to-last competition.
Through the Miss Texas Pageant, I accompanied Miss Austin, Diane (Dina) Elise Elsik, a nineteen-year-old with golden skin, good cheekbones, and nice manners. Although she had been eligible to enter the Austin pageant because of her enrollment at The University of Texas, her family lived in Seguin, where I visited with them the day before we left for Fort Worth.
Dina’s warm, outgoing mother, the former Isabel Martinez of San Antonio, reminded me at once of Ethel Merman as Rose in Gypsy. Like her, she admitted to being a “stage-struck mother.” She was proud to show me around their large ranch-style home, and to catch me up on Dina’s past. Inside the front door, much like a shrine, was a life-size oil painting of Dina as the Duchess of the DeMolays, in a pure white dress, holding an armful of red roses. In front of her image was a vase of red velvet roses flanked on either side by red candles. We looked at the framed photographs of her as Albert Pike Priory Queen, second runner-up in the Miss South Texas Pageant, and Miss Guadalupe County. After eight years in a Catholic school where Dina wore a uniform and all the boys and girls were “like brothers and sisters,” she entered the public school system, where, as pictures in her high school annual showed, she blossomed more each year: cheerleader, Sophomore Class Favorite, Junior Class Favorite, and, in her senior year, Miss Seguin High School.
Isabel explained that she had started both her daughters early on dance lessons, both ballet and tap; that for the past twelve years she had put on the annual March of Dimes shows and that Dina had danced in every one; that four years ago Dina had auditioned for Toots Johnson, “who was in movies and on Broadway.” She had instructed her younger daughter, Ava, to understudy Dina’s week at the pageant. “What a waste, I told her, if she wouldn’t learn anything from this opportunity.” Of this younger daughter, who was much in evidence, her long hair flying, Isabel said, “She wants to be like her sister, but better, go farther. She really has the competitive instinct.”
Also around for most of the day was Dina’s boyfriend Doak. Dina was very proud of him and his blond good looks and introduced him to me, “He is Mr. All Jock.” He told me that he had been named for Doak Walker, that he had a younger brother named for Kyle Rote, that he played football and baseball for Texas Lutheran College. As he stood with his arm around Dina, he provided her with living proof that one could live up to one’s parents’ hopes.
Dina’s father, Leroy Elsik, and her younger brother, Dutch, were away on a fishing trip for the week to Indianola. Although Leroy had relayed the message that “You can leave my part of the limelight out,” he had told Dina, “I may not be there but I’m behind you all the way.”
Isabel spoke of Leroy—chiropractor, rancher, and real estate developer—as if he were all that a man should be. “He’s as blond as I am dark, and muscular. He’s better looking now at 46 than he was when we got married.” She bragged that Dina had inherited his good Czech bones. Of his close relationship with his son she related that “I had two girls and he really wanted a boy. Dutch came on New Year’s Eve and all day my husband went around saying, ‘I got my boy.’” We admired the large oil portraits that showed him in his white coat in his office, and on horseback at the ranch with his son, the two of them painted to look alike.
Most of Dina’s day was spent getting together the bare minimum of clothing needed for the coming week of rehearsals and competitions: seven long dresses, eight street dresses, two one-piece bathing suits, twelve pairs of shoes, pants outfits, plus “all the accessories and jewelry you have to have.” The contestants’ handbook detailed the clothes required for each event: there would be at least four costume changes a day for all 57 entrants.
Isabel showed me the seven long gowns that Dina would take; all except one—a gift from a bridal shop—had been used in other presentations. Each gown wrapped in its plastic bag had a history to go with it: the princess-line white dress which Dina would use for her gown competition was an exact copy of a Thirties dress and was designed and beaded by her mother; the bright orange chiffon was designed for her by a talented boy “who went to fashion design school in Atlanta and is going to make it big in New York.”
As part of advancing to the state contest, Dina had changed her talent act from a semi-classical ballet to a jazz number done to Barbara Streisand’s recording of “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” For this Isabel had fashioned a scanty hot-pink suit, based on a leotard, with a pouf of scarves on the hips to wiggle as Dina danced: “This hot pink is really going to catch the judges’ eyes.”
There were other last minute changes, mostly influenced by word-of-mouth information from the other South Texas contestants, and second-hand stories about what Judy Mallett, the reigning Miss Texas and the carrier of the official gospel, had suggested. One recommendation was the purchase of a fall, bought with the money Dina had earned teaching dancing lessons, to put on top of her own wealth of dark hair; another was adopting the common practice of using padding in her white bathing suit, but this seemed, in Seguin, too deliberate a step to take.
Isabel talked readily about herself. Last year she had taken a course in writing for mass media, which she hoped would be a start in the field of public relations. “For self- improvement if nothing else, and for all the organizations I belong to.” But that came second. “I’m Dina’s mother and now Ava’s mother and even Dutch’s mother. You lose your identity.” She gestured to her dramatic black-and-white pant suit. “I tell her not to let herself go like I have. [If] you don’t watch yourself nobody else will.”
She showed me a picture of herself at Dina’s age: a slender girl in Portuguese folk costume, ruffled blouse, tiny laced bodice, heart-shaped locket. “[I’ve] danced since I was young.” Danced for her father’s band, did old-timey folk dances with her grandfather, then moved on to perform for the San Antonio recreation department, as well as for the air bases, and once, as in that snapshot, at the sunken gardens in Brackenridge Park. “If you have girls,” she said, “there’s nothing better than dance for grace and charm.” We studied the girl whose face looked out at us across the years with startling beauty and unlimited promise.
The morning we left, Dina, Isabel, and I had breakfast at four in the morning at the home of Juanita Taylor, the franchise owner for both the Miss South Texas and Miss San Antonio Pageants. In the past months, Mrs. Taylor had opened her home on Lake McQueeney often to the winners of those two contests, who joined us for breakfast and would ride with us to Ft. Worth.
A former executive with Mutual of Omaha, with no children of her own, Mrs. Taylor was glad to give her time and energy to helping “her girls,” since she believed strongly that the Miss America Pageant—as opposed to “the legions of other pageants that get press coverage”—had outstanding talent, was the world’s largest scholarship program for women, and, most importantly, was run by people like herself “whose main interest is the girls involved.”
Her husband, the owner-publisher of the Seguin Gazette, repeated her sentiments, and added that the only real problem was getting the right kind of girl to enter their pageants. He said they did the best they could, checking into a girl’s family background and morals, making sure the sponsoring group (“usually a Rotary or Chamber”) knew what caliber of girl they were seeking.
Each used the present Miss Texas as a good example. “Judy is a Christian but she’s not a fanatic,” she said. He agreed. “She made a little prayer last year at the end of each presentation. That’s the kind of girl the Miss America Pageant gets.”
They felt that the wide community support in Seguin for Dina was because she was the right sort of girl. This support had been evident to us the afternoon before when Isabel and I ran errands and were met everywhere with good wishes: the owner of the music store donated a tape for Dina to use for rehearsal, the assistant deejay who cut the tape reminded us that she had been a high school classmate of Dina’s, and the man in the dime store where we got toothpaste said he was rooting for her and welcomed me to town with a postcard showing that Seguin was the Home of the World’s Largest Pecan.
The Taylors showed me a copy of the contract that the sponsoring group signed. Each contestant must be of good moral character and shall not have been convicted of any crime and shall possess talent, poise, personality, intelligence, charm, and beauty of face and figure. No contestant will be eligible if she has endorsed or contracted to endorse any product competitive to products sold by the national sponsors of the Miss America Pageant Scholarship program or if she has participated during the franchise year in any other national or international competition of a similar nature which is televised nationally.
After we ate, we loaded more than a dozen suitcases and garment bags into Dina’s station wagon and my sedan and took off in the dawn. As Miss San Antonio rode with me to Waco where we all stopped for coffee and Miss South Texas rode with me into Fort Worth, there was a chance to get acquainted with these contestants.
I was interested in what they hoped to do with their lives after the pageant. Earlier Dina had said that she had considered majoring in PE, because she was big for sports, and then drama, because she had always acted in plays at school, but that a high school counselor had told her about the school of communications at The University of Texas and she had “loved it right away, especially TV.” Now a junior in summer school, she hoped to get an internship in television production in the fall.
Miss San Antonio, currently a weather-girl on a Spanish speaking station, had been for four years the solo dancer at Fiesta Nocha del Rio in San Antonio. With the poise of a professional performer she assessed her future: in a few years she would be too old to dance; she hoped the pageant would open up other possibilities. On the contestant fact sheet she had listed her future ambition as becoming a doctor.
Miss South Texas, a charmer who had taken time to attach “spiders” (false eyelashes) before our early breakfast, had been in drill teams in high school and college. Unless she broke into show business through the pageant, she planned to get a PE degree and lead a junior college drill team.
None of the three girls, all first-time entrants, expected to win the title of Miss Texas, but each hoped very much to place in the top ten. At the least they could count on television exposure during the finale Saturday night.
Each was certain that, as in the past, the winner would be one of the nine or ten girls who were returning to the pageant for the second or third time. As each contestant is allowed to enter the Miss Texas Pageant up to three times, but cannot succeed herself in the same local pageant, this means she has to enter a different one each year by changing her residence to that of her parents or to a school she is currently attending.
“Let’s all smile; it’s pageant time.”
On Monday morning a porcine official paraded the contestants alphabetically by title around the fanshaped swimming pool of the Ramada Inn. The girls had been instructed to remove their beach covers, and were in the outfit prescribed in the contestant handbook for this event: swimsuit, heels, and banner. This was billed as the Press Party and was a chance for photographers to get a few shots for their hometown dailies and weeklies.
It was vital to the backers of the Miss Texas Pageant that publicity about each day’s events be favorable and flowing, and that the press feel that information was readily available. Reporters received a fact sheet giving the height, weight, and measurements of all the girls, as well as a schedule telling what each night’s events were and where each evening’s preliminary swimsuit and talent winners would be available for photos and interviews. Reporters were assured that there would be time to photograph the winner and runners-up on Saturday night, and that all information would be provided well in advance of deadlines. “This way, darlin’,” an official urged, “get in line.” Photographers assembled groups of girls from their part of the state and posed them: leaning coyly forward with hands placed on bent knees to reveal cleavage, or tossing beach balls overhead in the wading pool for action shots. Someone in the back hollered: Get out of the way of my Hasselblad! To each other, sotto and not so sotto voce, they made comparisons between this scene and Fort Worth’s annual Fat-Stock Show, an image which was reinforced when an official checked his watch and called out, “It’s ten o’clock and time to start walking them around.”
For this event, as well as the week’s other contacts with the media, the pageant had hired the public relations firm that also handled Cycle-Rama, the World’s Largest Motorcycle Show, and Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus, the Greatest Show on Earth. While the girls were posing poolside, the PR men dispensed soft drinks and coffee and kept a watchful eye on the tensions between press and pageant officials.
The high priests of the Miss Texas Scholarship Pageant Corporation, the staff and the board of directors, were out in full force. They ranged in size from large to stout and portly, and in image from car salesman to carnival barker. Most wore loud plaid, checked, or paisley knit sports jackets that appeared custom tailored, and most had beepers at their waists like doctors. All wore medallions bearing the pageant’s gold seal suspended from a row of gold bars that looked like awards given for perfect church attendance.
The head of the group, the chairman of the board, was B. Don Magness, called by everyone B. Don, a name spelled in diamonds on his tie clasp. When he is not chairing the pageant or acting as manager for the present Miss Texas, he handles special events at the Will Rogers Convention Center for the City of Fort Worth.
Beginning with that first meeting at poolside, the press tried for an expose of the officials by slanting all interviews to reveal what had never been concealed: that most of the finalists would have been in the contest before; that B. Don and his wife, a stunning professional model, helped with the hair, clothes, makeup, and talent of any of the contestants who requested it or who appeared to have potential; that the purpose of the pageant was not to discover an unknown girl fresh from her hometown but to produce a winner who would stand a chance at Atlantic City.
The first stories harped on how the preliminary winners almost without exception had been entrants in this pageant before. There were headlines like: Former Runners-up Show Pageant Experience Counts.
When Terry Meeuwsen, a former Miss Wisconsin and Miss America (1973) who emceed the 1974 pageant, was asked her views on premarital sex and answered, “I think that’s none of your business,” her frankness did not make news. But the interview was concluded when reporters got her to say, that, well, yes, returning to competitions more than once could make a girl plastic, depending on where her head’s at.
A photographer with the local paper summed up the prevailing attitude when he asked me, “Why don’t you write how the press works its butt off to cover all this. There’s three of us assigned to it who all hate it.”
Meanwhile, it was on with the show: three full nights of well-attended preliminary contests followed by the sold-out grand finale.
The daddy of the reigning Miss Texas (Judy Mallett) opened the first night with an invocation thanking God “for the greatest chance to be a real American woman that the mind of man has ever devised.”
Seated next to me was a friendly fellow named The Reverend Mr. Billy Cox, who whispered that he hoped someday to be asked to pray at the Miss America Pageant. He revealed also that he was the number-one fan of Miss Toledo Bend, Donna Amos, and that he was here this week to represent the East Texas Light: “Covering Shelby County Like The Pine Straw Covers The Ground.” When we discovered that our two girls shared the same hostess and that “we” were both in Group A, we became friends enough for me to inquire if he had found his Scotch-Taped camera at a pawnshop. At this he vowed to come with a roll of film the following night, and, to show his good intentions, he shared with me his way of rating the girls, beginning at the bottom with “She barks and chases cars,” through “I knew her in high school,” up to “I could take her home to mother,” and the ultimate, “She teaches Sunday School.” For the first time that week we heard Judy fiddle her “Orange Blossom Special” and Terry sing, with New York polish, “Bye, Bye Blackbird.” All the girls were in their long dresses for the opening production number, doing a simple bit of sleight of hand to “Magic to Do.” Dina wore her bright green gift from the bridal shop and stood smiling on the front row.
For the competitions the girls had been divided into three groups of nineteen, with the strong talent scattered through the three groups in order to make each evening’s performance worth the money for the crowd. Miss Austin and Miss Toledo Bend, in Group A, had gown competition on Wednesday, swimsuit on Thursday, and talent on Friday.
In gown competition each girl had twenty seconds before the microphone to impress both the judges and the audience with her poise and her personality. Each, in a formal evening dress, gave her name, school, ambition, and a smidge of personal philosophy: “As a Dear Friend said to me, ‘Not my will, but Thine be done.’” “If life hands you a lemon, squeeze it and then set up a lemonade stand.” “Live as if we would live a hundred years, pray as if we would die tomorrow.” “My object in life is to unite my avocation and my vocation.” Miss Austin, in the white copy of the Thirties gown, told us in her even voice that she wanted to keep up with the world so “the world doesn’t pass me by.”
No one on the stage was lovelier, or more composed, than Dina in her slim-waisted homemade dress, but in Fort Worth on Wednesday it was already clear that a DeMolay Duchess from Seguin, Texas, could not make it on beauty and naturalness alone against girls who had spent a year or more being groomed and gowned by professionals.
The most well-known designers were a team from El Paso called Guyrex, who last year had created gowns for five girls in the top ten. Richard Guy explained that their secret was in the skirt (“anybody can do a bodice”), that their skirts were very full but were cut on the bias to make a girl look slim on the stage. This illusion ran from $400, he said, for “your average competition dress,” to about $800 for a “top, top.”
Becky Bloomer, the first night’s talent winner and the girl considered the favorite to win the Miss Texas title, had been dressed by Guyrex last year. This year, as part of her overall effort to take the crown, an effort which included weightlifting and sessions at a health spa to help in swimsuit competition, she had switched to designer Les Wilk.
She was entered this year as Miss White Settlement, a suburb of Fort Worth, since she was a student at Tarrant County Junior College; last year she had come as Miss Dallas, where her parents reside, and the year before that she was Miss Denton while she attended North Texas State University. Last year, as first runner up in the Miss Texas Pageant, she qualified automatically for the National Sweetheart Pageant, conducted in conjunction with the Sweet Corn Festival in Hoopeston, Illinois, where she was chosen National Sweetheart. When I asked her if she planned to go back to crown the new Queen of Sweet Corn she answered, “Not if I’m on my way to Atlantic City.”
There is no preliminary award for gown, as these points are tallied in with the judges’ interview, but had there been, Billy and I would have guessed the judges’ choice to be Shirley Cothran, this year’s Miss Haltom-Richland Area, who, from her first step on the stage, looked like all the Miss Americas we could remember.
I was interested in how the judges arrived at their final choices as I remembered my single experience as a judge in a Labor Day beauty contest at Austin’s Zilker Park. Not only did we tend to select larger finalists with bigger features the farther we sat from the stage, but when we got through, the winner seemed to be everyone’s fourth choice.
The judge I interviewed was the district marketing manager for Southeastern Bell Telephone in northern Mississippi, and had judged in Fort Worth before. He repeated what the handbook said: that talent counted 50 points and both swimsuit and the combined gown and judges’ interview 25 points each. He said that although each night’s preliminary winners competed only within their own group, in theory the ten finalists could all come from one group. He said the top ten were selected from the points given during the three days of contests and therefore they were known to the judges at the end of the competition Friday night. The ranking of the top five, also selected from this balloting, was made after the top ten repeated their gown, talent, and swimsuit on Saturday night.
The judge, who was dressed in a black and red paisley tuxedo jacket with bright red shirt and tie, explained that he was giving this week of his vacation to the contest because “I believe in the Miss America system and what it can do for a lady. I believe in it because of the development of the individual contestant. It takes young ladies who are introverted and shy. It’s like a Dale Carnegie course. It gives them self-confidence and self-discipline and exposure to the public. Plus the scholarship they get to pursue the interest of their choice whether it be merchandizing or art or whatever. It’s something college can’t give.”
I asked him about the judges’ interviews, which are said to be all-important in screening the candidate, as the South Texas girls had been worried about this on our drive to Fort Worth.
The judge explained that the interviews (street dress, heels, rosettes, DO NOT wear hats or gloves) in which the girls are scrutinized three at a time for a total of nine minutes, gave judges a chance to look over a girl’s complexion, her features, how she conducts herself. “For example,” he said, “a lady doesn’t come into a room and sit down and cross her legs.” It gave them a chance to spot a noticeable scar or one eye that was larger than the other; “Sometimes we’re amazed at how a girl we’ve interviewed up close looks on the stage with all her makeup on.”
Dina, on our drive up, had reassured the others that there was no need to read up on the news because the judges wouldn’t ask things like what was Kissinger doing in Israel, that they would ask you personal questions about your family and what you liked to do, things like what was your major in school. She had spoken with the assurance of one whose private life had straightforward answers; appropriately, she had planned to wear a deep red copy of a Victorian dress, complete with cameo at the throat.
One official, who had once been a judge himself, confirmed Dina’s belief that the questions themselves did not matter. “Here’s where they cut girls out, weed them out—you can’t keep 57 of anything in your head at once—then, if they’ve got talent you can put them back. You make up a list of questions that they can make an intelligent answer to, like what is the state flower, or what is the state bird. Or you ask them, ‘How long you been taking dance lessons?’; then when you see her talent later you think: fourteen years and that’s all she can do?” He supplied the real answer to what the judges look for: “Our contestants are a real contrast to those in the Miss USA even though they are really knockout looking, but if you told one of them to go empty the ashtray they would say ‘huh?’ and dump over a potted plant. We’re not like that. We’re the image the little girl wants to grow up to be.”
The second night of contests, when our girls were in the swimsuit competition, Billy, the preacher-photographer from East Texas, had put film in his camera and had adjusted his patches of Scotch Tape for a better look at Miss Toledo Bend.
In the stiff and obviously padded one-piece suits, the contestants walked out one at a time to the mike and then to the edge of the stage. As they showed their poise, Terry Meeuwsen told the audience the name of their sponsor and parents, their height and weight, their majors and interests. A few small concessions had been made to women’s lib: gone were the list of their measurements, the quarter-turns that used to show off the body profile, and no longer might the girls lick their lips when their backs were to the audience to make a moist smile.
Dina was slender and self-possessed in a white halter-neck suit. Her white V-neck which had been acceptable for poolside was not proper here: it had fringe on the hips. Miss Toledo Bend looked like a cheerleader at the beach and Billy whispered loudly that everything she had was hers.
The audience was too full of parents and surrogate-parents—hostesses, sponsors, managers, chaperones—for them to see the girls as other than their contestants. It was not a sex show: it was like the weekly posture contest at Camp Mystic. The same number of pretty faces and nearly pretty ones, the same good and bad skin, good and bad carriage, awkward and practiced movements. The real drawback was that we on the front row had a view we did not want: bruised thighs, callused heels, streaked leg makeup, as well as all too apparent glimpses of a protruding rubber falsie, or the obvious outline of a mini-sanitary pad. Embarrassed, Billy and I reminisced about other times when you paid to see bodies on display: we talked of pasties and clockwise tassels, and of the Champagne Lady of Bourbon Street who was of course a family friend of his.
This was the competition which brought the sharpest criticism from the press and the most defensive reaction from the pageant people, who felt compelled to repeat that it showed how a girl could hold up under stress.
Those who had the most trouble with swimsuit were the female reporters who were the same age and background as the contestants. For some of them it was an opportunity to work through their own feelings about being, or refusing to be, a sex object; for others it was a lesson in allowing each woman the use of her own body.
One reporter—who had been ambivalent about the pageant as she considered the girls were being exploited although she herself was using them to get a front page story with byline every day—had the difficult job of interviewing the preliminary swimsuit winner, who also had been a very good friend of hers in high school. There was between this intern reporter and Amy Griggs, who was this year’s Miss Hurst-Euless-Bedford and a top contender for the title, an awkwardness, a distance as if each felt the need to justify to the other the different path she had taken. After the interview the reporter confessed her second thoughts, “At first I wanted to knock it all. At first I thought the girls were doing their whole sex a disservice. It’s so absurd; it’s not what America is really all about. Now, well, I’d hate to see any of these girls hurt.”
The last night of preliminaries Billy and I watched our girls compete in talent. As we had seen on previous nights, what the judges wanted in a winner was a girl who could create an affinity between performer and audience. They wanted an act which could be repeated on TV talk shows and at other pageants, an act which would play in Atlantic City, an act that would bring the audience to spontaneous clapping and cheering like Terry Meeuwsen belting, in Liza Minnelli style, “You gotta ring them bells,”
Thus the outstanding voice at the pageant did not make the top five, although when Miss Waco came up to the mike and vowed to “make Rivers Hatchett a name to remember in opera,” there was not a doubter in the house. The non-finalist talent award went to Miss Pasadena, Peggy Ruth Oliver, who gave an electrifying performance, in warrior costume with sword upraised, of the war variation from Pandora’s Box ballet. It was like seeing Joan of Arc on a Broadway stage. But she was a sleeper: none of the pageant people had caught her act at her local pageant and she had been placed near the end of the program. As Terry explained it to me, as Miss Pasadena had not been noticed in swimsuit or gown earlier, it was too late by the last night for her to be a finalist. (The preliminary winner from her group was an audience-pleasing piano player who did a medley of Floyd Cramer tunes.)
Most of the talent numbers of the non-finalists were either a sensuous jazz dance done in eye-catching red or hot pink, like Dina’s, or a night club song, like Miss Toledo Bend’s, with the contestant holding the mike in her left hand, her right hand stretched to the sky, in imitation of big-name stars.
The finalists’ performances were not different in kind from the efforts of our girls, but their acts were as polished as those on the best TV variety show.
The supporting cast behind the ten finalists, whose names were determined by the end of Friday night’s show, was made up of mothers, hostesses, and franchise holders who had worked behind the scenes all week, almost around the clock.
There was little sleep for anyone, My own day began at 6:30 in the morning with the selection of the day’s outfit from my wardrobe of four shirts and three pairs of slacks, and ended around two in the morning in a hot tub, listening either to the sounds of the truckers’ favorite country deejay or to family problems through the paper-thin hotel walls. The girls came back from the nightly competitions to a midnight spread of hamburgers, homemade cake, and ice cream; then the hostesses helped them with their nerves, hair, and rumors until two or three o’clock. All were up again for a six a.m. breakfast of fruit and pastries served dormitory-style in the motel.
While the girls were being put to bed their friends and family were invited to what was called the Franchise Holders Party (Admission by Badge Only). These gatherings were a chance for B. Don and the other directors to press the flesh and call by name the owners of the 57 local pageants. To keep relations smooth, an open bar and a band that played loud oldies held forth until three in the morning.
Here I visited again with Isabel and the Taylors from Seguin. They crowded around a table in the dark, packed room to discuss their girls’ chances and to cling to the hope that at least one of the three would reach the top ten. Isabel wanted to hear that Dina had looked perfect in her white gown, that she had shown herself off as well as anyone in her bathing suit, that she bad danced like Cyd Charisse, that the judges had noticed her.
The pageant officials do all they can to keep the local owners content, since they have a strong interest in retaining the location of the Miss Texas franchise in Fort Worth, where it has been for the past twelve years. Under her contract, Miss Texas must go to TCU to receive her scholarship, and, once elected, automatically moves her residence to Fort Worth. In the event she goes on to become Miss America, she still resides in Fort Worth and her time and a percentage of her earnings belong to the pageant.
During her reign, Miss Texas is managed by B. Don, who keeps her working. As one official put it, if she doesn’t block out time for her old daddy’s birthday, B. Don will fill that day too. What advertisers can use Miss Texas? The same official said, “All they have to do is contact the manager; she’ll do anything for money.” Then he amended this quickly, “Not beer, not liquor. We never advertise it; we just drink it. But the girls never see it. And they can’t touch it.” He explained the girls’ abstinence: “It’s the Miss America dream. It’s what it s all about.”
Largely responsible for guarding this dream at the pageant were the hostesses whose job it was not only to keep the girls from drinking, but also from seeing or hearing anything offensive. At all times they were to keep their charges behaving like ladies. Not only were contestants not permitted at any time “to enter a cocktail lounge, private club, night club, bar, inn, tavern or any place where liquor is being served,” but they were instructed that a contestant “WILL NOT smoke in public”, and “Contestants ARE NOT PERMITTED TO SPEAK TO ANY MAN unless in the company of their hostess.” The contestant’s own family was not excepted. In addition, the hostesses had instructions to terminate any photographic session or interview which was “improper, indecent, embarrassing, or in poor taste.” To help with this they had the resources of a policewoman on duty 24 hours a day to protect against intruders. To prevent obscene phone calls, the girls were not allowed to receive incoming calls.
The hostesses (or “hosteii” as they referred to themselves), were all active in the Fort Worth community as volunteers, and each was fiercely partisan to “her” girl. There was an air about them of sorority sisters at a convention with much hugging and squealing lines like, “Morning, love. I forgot what I’m supposed to do about whatever we’re supposed to do.” Many of them stayed all week, some of them came in shifts; all of them took their jobs as chaperones literally and seriously.
From my own experience this protectiveness became tedious. One morning at rehearsal Judy needed a ride back to the motel from the convention center and, after she had asked around twice, I offered to give her one. My offer led to a conference of hostesses, as she still had one more day to reign as Miss Texas. At length, they decided that B. Don would not approve, leaving me feeling somewhat as if I had offered to hijack the President to Cuba. On another occasion, when the subject of suntans versus tan-from-a- tube and sunlamps was being discussed, I decided to ask the pro, Miss White Settlement, how she got her deep and even glow. This required, although we were sitting one row apart, getting permission from a hostess who accompanied us to the stairs where she sat between us while I asked Becky, “Do you use a sun-lamp?” “No, I use the sun.”
While the hostesses took over the functions of guard, valet, and mother, the actual mothers were left to hover in the hallways or wait in the registration room which served as a reception room. They waited for hair curlers to be taken down upstairs, or for naps to be over, hoping for a chance to pass (in the presence of a hostess, of course) necessities to their daughters: Tampax, shoeshop glue for a broken heel, a basket of fruit from the hometown Jaycees.
One corner of the registration room was used by hair-dressers to coif and comb contestants’ hair, a process which left a film of hair spray over the donuts and coffee. From outside in the hall came the effusive voices of visiting Misses from other states, old winners from this pageant, and, always putting out cornpone jocularity for her fans, the ever-present Judy: “I’ve got me a new dressy-poo, and it really is purty.”
While the mothers waited they talked about their glimpses of the inside: “She and her roommate both got constipated, it’s just nerves, they sent out for a laxative and now they’ve got the opposite problem”; “There were three other dresses like the one she wore in the opening number”; “Last night’s swimsuit winner is really flat as a pancake, I saw her myself this morning”; “You’re not allowed to shed any article of clothing in the talent contest; it might give the impression of stripping.”
The mothers’ optimism during the course of the week ran at roughly the level of the current day’s crop of flowers (dozens and dozens of Tyler roses), telegrams, letters, and gifts waiting for each girl by her name on the counter. By Saturday morning, before the list of the finalists leaked, the room looked like rush week at a big university, and the mothers appeared in their best bonded pantsuits, their hair fresh from the beauty shop.
Then a rash of hurt feelings broke out among the girls as the news of the finalists, already released to the press, reached them. There was one finalist who was suspected of having been on a date; there was the feeling that all of the four girls who had not won preliminary contests did not dance as well nor were as pretty as the ones passed over; there was much talk of politics and favoritism as four of the ten were from the Fort Worth area.
This, plus the lack of sleep all week, broke everyone’s reserve at the last rehearsal and there was a good measure of spoofing here and there. The men putting on the show relaxed; one of them said he could direct almost anything, that he had directed traffic and he’d directed “a few cows in my time—at the rodeo, of course.” One told a very confident contestant, “We’ve got to stop meeting like this; you’re running out of pageants.” And to a black girl about to miss her bus someone called out, “You just think this is an equal opportunities pageant.”
The hostesses, who had kept up a running commentary about the contestants during rehearsals—“She’s had her teeth capped since last year”; “This is the best Miss Prairie View we’ve had”; “She’s going to wet on herself she’s so nervous”; “I’m going to kill her and tell the Lord she died”—had an opportunity to do their own musical version of the show.
In a noontime follies that one of the hostesses called “a chance to have a fling of our own,” they produced a takeoff on the pageant, complete with song and dance production numbers they had written themselves (for one they sent off for T-shirts that said: You’ve Come A Long Way Baby), and the presentation of past Misses with names like Miss Take and Miss Guided. There were a number of apt touches: Miss Judged was introduced as a contestant “who had been an acrobatic dancer but she changed her ambition to brain surgery” to win the title. Another Miss from the Twenties came out in a bathing suit stuffed with two large balloons, one of which was punctured as she made her quarter-turns for the “judges.”
Even Judy must have been able to see freedom at the end of the rainbow. On the stage, going over a solo number with the tape recording which was used for background music, she said, “I can’t hear that dumb tape. If that happens tonight I’ll just stick my tongue out at them and say: nyaahhh, that’s the last time I’ll have to play this for you.”
The pageant officials had all but the two most serious problems under control, and those were at least tamped down for the last night. Already surmounted during the week were such troubles as the judges not being able to get into their hotel suite with the bar the first night, and having the Winnebago which was to convey them to the contest fail to appear; and a water main that broke in the street outside the convention center forcing that day’s talent to practice its routines on a concrete floor while two feet of water was pumped out from behind the orchestra pit.
One real problem which would have to wait until next year was the fact that the TV show was going down the tube, meaning that the pageant again had no national sponsor now that neither Toni nor the Miss America parent pageant picked up the tab. The 90 minutes had been sold to local advertisers and was going to lose money, but, as the executive director put it, this was part of the pageant corporation’s headache financially and not something to trouble the girls with; all they needed to know was that they would be on TV and they would be seen back home.
The other major problem remained: the press. Saturday morning at rehearsal B. Don flopped down in the seat beside me to give his version. He had been more than affable all week. Smiley the photographer had a blown-up glossy of B. Don’s rear end-bending over, which they had had Judy sign and had presented to him. Now his face sagged. Convinced the press was out to get him, he had squeezed out the time for a two-hour interview with the local paper and had set up a press conference for UPI, who failed to show. He sweated to remember a similar press attack a few years back when some franchise holders were threatening to defect.
But on the surface everything was prepared for the finale. As the crowd arrived in formal attire, the press ticket table began to crack down on what they called “the pageant freaks’’ who had been milling around all week. The first to go were the trouble-makers. As one PR man said, “You invent a little local paper and buy a roll of film and we’ll let you watch the early shows and freeload a drink at intermission. There’s no need to be obnoxious.” One of the ones who had appeared all week, purportedly representing a large paper with a dubious queen in tiara and ballgown on his arm, was bounced for the last night. So was another who pleaded, “I can’t be from the Dallas Morning News? Would you believe the Times Herald?” Billy’s credentials were called into question, but by Saturday he had learned to charge his camera’s batteries, knew everyone from the parking lot attendant to the ticket taker, was also representing another county newspaper, The Champion and, besides, he was in a tuxedo. A little pressure and charm was applied, and Billy was allowed to remain, front and center.
The final curtain up at last, Judy told the audience that this had been the most beautiful year of her life, that without the sacrifice of God’s Jesus, this year would not have been possible. For the next-to-last-time as Miss Texas (there was one show at 8:30, a final one televised at 10) she brought out the fiddle and played us the “Orange Blossom Special.” As the visiting Misses from other states each got a final turn at the mike (their part was not repeated on TV) Billy reported that Miss Alaska, who had spent all week giving chats in the lobby with her ventriloquist’s dummy Stanley, planned to come to East Texas Baptist College next year, and, wonder of wonders, that she taught Sunday School. Miss Florida floated on, reminded us all that she was only seventeen. Then Miss Wyoming, a tall, gorgeous black with a modified afro, gave the show-stopper. After casing her audience for four nights, she leaned into the mike and delivered her lines: “Someone said I ought to stay out of the sun, that I might get too dark. That’s nonsense; everyone knows that the blacker the cherry the sweeter the juice.”
Then, after the top ten (Billy complained that two of them “barked and chased cars”) had gone through their swimsuit, talent, and gown all over again, first for the judges and then again on live TV, there was the familiar drum-roll and we had presented to us the top five. And there, after years of work, waited the favorites: Miss Hurst-Euless-Bedford, Amy; Miss White Settlement, Becky; and Miss Haltom-Richland Area, Shirley. Each a finalist before, each waiting for one more chance at the crown.
They were not in this for their picture in the paper and certainly not for the $2500 scholarship to TCU, since each had surely spent well over that to get to that stage on Saturday night. The stakes they played for were much higher, beginning with the $1000 for going to Atlantic City: they were playing for what Judy had—$20,000 in the bank, a $50,000 baby food contract waiting, the chance for contracts up to $250,000, plus exposure before millions or TV viewers on the Jimmy Dean show, the Johnny Carson show, and at Super Bowl VIII.
It was a lot for a college student to win; even more to lose. All of them were already aiming high: Amy had a 4.0 average; Shirley had her masters degree; Becky had had overtures from the Christy Minstrels.
Pageant officials carried in sprays of roses. B. Don brought the red velvet train trimmed in ermine. The envelopes were opened and the names were read. When Amy was announced as second-runner-up she turned her face away from the crowd, received her consolation yellow roses through tears; when Becky’s name was read as first runner-up the whole auditorium could see her turn ashen as the knife went through her sweet-corn throat. Then it was, of course, Shirley who got the red roses, and the crown, and the future. Shirley who had, from the first night, looked like all the Miss Americas there ever were.
Billy passed judgment: “I could take her home to mother.” Then, to give her her full due he added, “But I’m not sure I could trust my daddy.”
Shirley’s mother, a plain white-haired woman, had told me earlier in the week about the first dress that her daughter had worn in her very first pageant, that she and a neighbor had sewed on it for two weeks, sewed on all those rhinestones at the wrist and neck. “All that work and it was a dress you couldn’t wear any place else.” Of this daughter she had said, “She and her sister are exactly the opposite of each other.” The other daughter loves horses, has a baby, has settled down.
Backstage, Becky and Amy sobbed openly into the arms of parents and friends. The intern reporter turned away from her distressed high-school friend Amy; a photographer debated, then rejected, grabbing a shot of the tear-stained Becky. After all, none of them had intended it to mean so much, to matter so badly.
The party afterward was like a dead dance in a high school gym. The red punch was tepid, the food scarce, and most of the girls began to talk slowly of “wait till next year.” Miss South Texas planned to transfer to Southwest Texas State University and run from that pageant; Miss Big Thicket’s mother told me that her girl was going to come back next year as Miss Austin since she was now at the University of Texas; Miss Toledo Bend, who, Billy told me, was informed that she was number eleven, now planned to go to school in Dallas and study voice next year and return from one of the metroplex pageants.
Isabel, introduced as a former star of stage and screen, grinned and obliged with a little soft shoe. She told us that next year Dina ought to wear a bright orange swimsuit to catch the judges’ eyes. She described her idea for a new competition gown, a copy of a Guyrex.
But with Doak’s arm around her and the thought of a TV internship before her, Dina hesitated. It would be fun to go back to Seguin and walk down the street and have everyone say, “I saw you on TV.” But would she try again? “Maybe, if somebody really wanted me to.”
But even as tears had been dried and the top five had posed, all smiling, for the photographers, retaliation brewed from the disappointed. In the following weeks the schism among the believers was made public. In the same edition of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that carried an editorial welcoming Shirley, whose crown “looked like it belonged there,” was a front page story claiming that the pageant was “controlled.” There were threats to “get” B. Don; franchise holders told anyone who would write it down that it had all been fixed from the start. Two disappointed groups approached a Dallas attorney to start an investigation they hoped could lead to a lawsuit; there were rumors of a Friday night caucus of the judges, of a leak from Shirley’s roommate, of a veiled hint from a former Miss Texas. Lubbock’s pageant owner sent to all owners an eight-page, single-spaced letter, going over it all, including why his contestant changed her dance at the last minute, and saying what was wrong with the whole pageant was that it did not have Miss Lubbock in the top ten this year.
But even in his anger what he wanted, what they all wanted, was not excommunication from the fold but control of it. In his suggested improvements he still held to the prevailing mystique: “Personally, I would like to see swimsuit competition eliminated from competition in this pageant… If they want a leg or bust review, they can watch Miss World, Miss U.S.A., or Miss Universe… Also, there are many very talented young ladies who would never enter because of religious or moral convictions. I don’t think swimsuit competition is relevant when we are looking for wholesome, all-American girls with talent.”
Richard Guy, of Guyrex, was rumored to want to move the state pageant to El Paso where he had the franchise. In his letter to owners he opted for a three-person jury of owners to be present at all times during the judging, including “during all of the entertainment functions which have been planned for the judges’ panel during their entire stay.”
The majority of owners did not go along with his protests. By telephone from Seguin, Mrs. Taylor, the franchise holder of Miss South Texas (who was Miss Congeniality) and Miss San Antonio (who was a finalist), declared that in her opinion all the flap was “flat sour grapes,” that the other owners were “flat very, very poor losers.”
But even as the heathens raged, the pageant machinery continued smoothly—only a scant six weeks remained to get Shirley ready for Atlantic City, and scarcely a year for the losers to get ready for the Miss Texas Pageant, 1975. |
Plant Care & Installation
The following instructions contain basic information on the care of our plant material. The biggest mistakes we find in plant care is watering too much and planting too deep. Please review these instructions and if you do have any questions or concerns regarding care and maintenance of plant material, please call us at the nursery.
We at The Swartz Nurseries, Inc. try to grow & sell the best quality nursery stock possible. This plant material, planted in a good location and with proper growing conditions, should continue to thrive after transplanting. However, we have no control over the plants growing conditions after they leave our nursery. This information tries to list planting & maintenance procedures you should follow to insure your plants will grow well in your home landscape.
SITE SELECTION. Select the right plant to grow in the location you have chosen. Factors such as, locations with heavy clay vs. well drained soil, sun or shade, is the soil wet or dry and is it far enough from structures & other plants when mature, should determine what type of plant you select.
PLANTING-HOLE PREPARATION. Dig a hole at least one foot wider than the root ball. The hole should be dug no deeper than the root ball. It is very important to plant the tree or shrub so that the top of the root ball & ‘root flare’ is at, or slightly above the existing grade. This is very important in poorly drained soils.
Most plants we sell are container grown or B&B (Balled & Burlaped).
With container grown plants, slide them out of the plastic pot. Use a pointed object to separate or cut & spread out the roots that often circle the root balls exterior.
B&B plants are field dug either by hand or tree spade. Once the plants are adjusted properly, and the tree or shrub is in the hole, cut all twine. The root ball is wrapped in burlap and the trees often have a wire cage for support.
We recommend placing several burlap or tarps on the ground. Place the best soil on one tarp and the poorest subsoil on another. There should be extra soil after the plant is installed and the poor subsoil can then be discarded.
FINISHING PLANTING. back-fill two-thirds of the hole with the existing soil and by cutting- in & widening the top edge of the hole. In general, do not enrich the soil with compost or peat. In extremely sandy soils, peat or compost may be added to increase water retention. Our soils locally are typically clay and do not need such amendments. Because the tree’s roots will eventually spread out much farther than the original hole, amending only the backfill will not solve the soil problems facing the tree if the soil is poor. Add water to the partially filled hole and let it soak in. Next, fill the hole the rest of the way and water again. Fertilizer is not needed at the time of planting.
A slightly raised berm can be left around the outside of the hole on larger trees & shrubs to make watering easier.
Tree wrap is not usually recommended on newly planted trees anymore, but can be useful on trees subject to rabbit & rodent damage.
MULCHING. Mulch helps keep the soil cool, moist, moderate’s temperature, helps prevent mower damage, improves the appearance of the planting area, and reduces weed competition, all of which are important in root growth. Cover the soil around the newly planted tree with a 2-4” layer of organic mulch. Keep mulch 1-2” away from the tree trunk so that heat and moisture are not trapped against the bark of the plant. Leaf litter, bark chips, shredded bark, pine straw, cocoa bean hulls, and compost make excellent mulch materials. While not as desirable, a stone mulch with a porous weed barrier underneath can be used. Care must be taken to be sure there is good drainage around the plant.
WATERING.In areas with heavy clay soil, over watering is the main reason plants do not survive transplanting. You have to check the soil below the surface around your plants to see how moist it is before watering. Most plants cannot tolerate the soil being wet all the time. Small container grown plants may have to be watered every 2-3 days in hot weather for the first several weeks after planting because they are grown in a bark soil mix which can dry out very rapidly. Larger shrubs and most trees should only be watered once per week, taking rainfall into account. It is important to thoroughly soak the ground and then let it dry out before watering again. Each plant should be watered with a hose set at a slow trickle near the base of the plant. You should allow deep moisture penetration without water run off. Depending on the size of the plant material, the plants may need to be watered for several minutes to as much as an hour. Watering may be delayed due to weather, but most plants need a rain of at least one inch to soak the soil deep enough to reach the deeper roots. Be sure to water well into the fall, as maintaining adequate moisture is absolutely essential to survival. Check the soil a couple of times a week to see if more water is needed. The soil should be moist (but not soaking wet) down to a depth of six inches or so. Keep newly transplanted trees well-watered for one to two years after transplant.
FERTILIZING. It is not usually necessary to fertilize, but applications for new transplants can result in stronger, healthier plants. After plants are well established and fairly mature, less fertilizing is needed, unless a nutrient deficiency is observed. Certain plants may have problems because the soils in this area has a high pH. This condition is difficult to reverse, but using sulfur based fertilizers should improve soil conditions.
STAKING. It is not necessary to stake newly planted trees less than four inches in diameter in home landscapes. The tree flexing in the wind strengthens the trunk as it grows. Trees four inches or larger, trees in windy areas, or those at risk for vandalism or mower damage should be staked. We do not recommend staking most plants. The stakes and guy lines often do more damage to the plants than any benefits that may be gained by staking. Stakes and support wires must be removed after one year.
SPRAYING. Most insect & disease problems are mainly cosmetic and do not seriously affect the health of the plants. When spraying is necessary, it is very important to only use the right amount of the appropriate spray at the proper time to avoid the overuse of pesticides. It often is wise to consult a qualified professional for the recommended treatment.
PRUNING. Severe pruning should not be necessary for most plants if the right type of plants were placed in the proper location. It is important to maintain the plants natural form with only light pruning to remove undesirable growth. To prune properly, selective pruning with a hand shears is recommended, rather than regular trimming with a head shears or electric trimmer. Most plants which need major pruning should be trimmed in the early spring.
Spring flowering plants should be trimmed shortly after they flower so as to not affect next year’s flowering.
Some summer blooming plants such as potentilla, hydrangea and many spirea flower better if trimmed back in early spring.
Evergreens should usually be trimmed in early summer when their new growth is still soft and easy to trim. Pruning evergreens in the fall can make them more likely to suffer winter injury.
Most trees are best trimmed in the winter season because it is easier to see what branch structure needs to be removed when their foliage is off. Improper and excessive pruning can greatly affect the appearance of your landscape plants and it is often wise to consult a qualified professional to properly prune your plants. The Kenosha/Racine UW Extension offices are a good source for many publications on how to care for your plants. |
The conventional way of taking in Cannabis has been overshadowed by healthier new alternatives in modern days. The burning of joints, pipes and bongs, although still a practice in most Cannabis users, is not the particular norm anymore.
We live in a generation that is more concerned about health than ever before. The impact to your health and overall well-being is of great concern to most of us.
This trend may be due to the information age, that has made us more aware of ourselves and we want to live longer.
So, in the Cannabis industry what has changed?
The new methods have been introduced called Vaping and Dabbing.
These are considered healthier ways to consume Cannabis and reaping out the plant’s therapeutic benefits. By using these methods it is proven to be more effective medicinally and recreationally.
Vaping and Dabbing Cannabis filters out all the unwanted carcinogenic substances, which you are subjected to when smoking Cannabis.
This can also cater to patients in need of Medical Cannabis. The inhalation of vapor, as opposed to taking in a pill or tablet, is much more therapeutic and can provide instant relief. This technique is definitely the way to go and is seen to be the paraphernalia of choice in the future of Cannabis.
What’s Vaping and Dabbing?
Vaping is the process of heating up Cannabis or any dry herb to a certain temperature to activate the beneficial chemicals and releasing them in vapor form. This is for a healthier and smooth intake.
Vaping Cannabis usually is done with dry herb vaporizers, that heat the plant matter to its boiling point to release vapor. Click here for examples of Dry Herb Vaporizers.
Dabbing, on the other hand, is the form of heating up Cannabis concentrates, not herbs, on a very hot surface. Dabbing usually requires a specific metal loader which is attached to a bong. This is also for a healthier and smoother Cannabis intake. But dabbing can be more potent if used incorrectly. Since the substance used is a concentrated form of Cannabis, much like an extract, it is easy to over dab your hit.
Conduction and Convection Heating
The process of dabbing and vaping requires heat as its main element. To further understand the process of both methods, we shall differentiate the process of Conduction (Dabbing) and Convection (Vaping) heating.
Conductive heating is mainly used for dabbing. Dabbing has developed a scary reputation because of the way it is performed. But dabbing is actually so much better and healthier than smoking Cannabis.
Dabbing is far from actually vaporizing Cannabis. When the TL hotplate is heated using a blowtorch, it can reach a temperature as high as 900 to 1000 degrees. Dropping some oil extracts or wax into the hot plate to make it vaporize is conduction.
Because of the high temperatures and the contact of substances with the equipment, dabbing may also lead to combustion. This is evident by the chard marks left in the plate after the deed is done.
Convective heating is associated with indirectly heating Cannabis. Convective heating uses an electronic heating mechanism which heats the air inside the chamber. When the air reaches a certain temperature, it heats the Cannabis in the chamber to release vapor.
Cannabis and other dry herbs do this because they are heat activated. Once the air is hot enough to reach the flower boiling point, vapor is released. Convective heating does this without charring or combusting the plant.
But to be fair there are devices on the market which use both Conduction and Convection methods for vaping – and you can learn more in this video.
So, Which is Better Between Vaping and Dabbing?
While both practices prove to be better than smoking, vaping reigns as the much healthier option of the two. This is because none of the carcinogenic elements is released when vaping Cannabis.
Why is that?
Although vaping Cannabis proves to be the better choice than dabbing, there are other aspects in vaping Cannabis that can be harmful. These are:
Choosing the right vaporizer
It is important to note that vaporizers contain more than just the heating chamber. There are wires and other components that react to heat as well. When temperature are high and the vaporizer is poorly built, these other materials may tend to combust, letting you inhale unwanted substances in your body.
It is best to choose a high-quality vaporizer. Research the vaporizer you’re going to buy, making sure that the manufacturer of the unit is reliable. Reading reviews about the vaporizer is also a good tip before purchase. You can check out high-quality vaporizer by clicking here.
Moisture is also one component any organic material can possess. When you leave your Cannabis inside the chamber, it can moist up and become wet. Moisture from the Cannabis can seep into the thin line cracks of your vaporizers and rust internal parts. A person who is concerned about taking in Cannabis in a healthy way would not want anything inhaled other than vapor.
Dabbing and Vaping have a common enemy, it is benzene. Benzene is a carcinogenic compound that is released in Cannabis when heated up to more than 365 degrees. Benzene is also found in the like of car exhausts, tobacco, and soft drinks. This substance is not something you would want your body to have. It is best to heat your Cannabis below the 365-degree range for best results.
Your Lifestyle, Your Choice
There are so many new technologies popping up in the Cannabis industry. Vaping and Dabbing could not have been imagined 20 years ago as a form of taking in Cannabis.
New and better methods are to rise up in the near future. It is only right that Cannabis has fueled the way to a positive and healthier option. |
Remember this cupcakes? Well, I made too much frosting. What to do with leftover frosting? Make cookies! I got the idea by googling it. It's very simple, just add 1 cup flour and 1 egg to 1/2 cup frosting. I had 1 cup frosting but didn't double the recipe, so the cookies are more chewy and moist. To make them more special, put oreos under every cookie dough balls, so during the baking the dough will spread and hide them. Cookies with a surprise inside!
Showing posts from September, 2014
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Nothing very special about this post, just ordinary chocolate cupcakes with ordinary frosting. I just want to keep notes about the chocolate cake recipe. It is adapted from Smitten Kitchen's Everyday Chocolate Cake. That recipe is a keeper, the cake is tender, moist, but not too soggy. Definitely will frequently use it for any need of chocolate cake. |
Here in the UK we currently have weather. I know that the British bear the brunt of international jokes saying that all we talk about is the weather, but frankly this year the weather is just simply not good enough. It is unseasonably cold and it is constantly raining. Last weekend was glorious, so I took a risk and changed the thick winter duvet for the slightly lighter spring / autumn one. What a mistake to make. After two days of sunshine we are back to the weather and temperatures that you would expect to see at the end of March rather than mid May. I am just thankful that I left the electric blanket on the bed – it has not been switched on for only one night this year.
Comfort food calls, and last Sunday I was craving a roast chicken for supper. Living in central London with 24 hour shops within a 5 minute walk, I rarely menu plan as I far prefer to decide what to eat on the day. It being Sunday my local butcher was closed and it took a few shops to find a free range chicken. Instead of serving with roast potatoes I cooked my chicken on a bed of lentils and beans, both are packed with protein so it is a great way to eek out a smaller bird to feed more people. As the bird roasts it is also partially steamed, with the result that the meat is wonderfully moist.
The lentil and bean mix is very rich as it absorbs all of the chicken fat, if you are feeling health conscious you could skim some of the fat off before adding them; or simply add extra so you have leftovers for another day. I cook my own beans from dried and then freeze them, any tinned beans rinsed well would work well. Once cooked scoop some of the beans and lentils into a pot and blitz with a stick blender before returning them to the pan and stirring in, this thickens and gives a lovely creamy consistency to them. Delicious.
I used Rose Harissa from Steenbergs. Their spices are top-notch quality, intensely flavoured and the range is organic and Fairtrade as far as possible. I far prefer using a dry mix that will live happily in the cupboard once opened, rather than a paste that goes off quickly. I also love that the Steenbergs range is in jars that are wide enough to stack well (preventing the cascade of spice jars falling from the cupboard) and designed to be able to get a spoon into.
Left over beans and lentils freeze well. Use as a base for soups, or in a burger bun with mayo and ketchup for a very sloppy, but delicious, sloppy Joe.
- 1 medium free range chicken
- 1 tbs butter - softened
- 1-2 tsp harissa powder
- 1/2 lemon cut into wedges
- Glug light olive oil
- Salt & Pepper
- 1 tin of beans - drained and rinsed - I used black eyed
- 1 mug of green or puy lentils
- 1 cloves garlic - finely chopped
- 1 pint chicken or vegetable stock
Pop the lemon wedges into the chicken's cavity and place in a roasting tin with a glug of oil.
Mix the butter and harissa together and rub well into the bird's breast. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking time will be about 20 minutes per pound (450g), plus another half hour at GM5 / 375F / 190C. Put the bird into the oven to cook.
40 minutes before the end of cooking time scatter the garlic, lentils and beans around the chicken and cover them with the stock. Return to the oven.
Keep an eye on it, you may need to add more stock, or put a piece of foil over the bird to prevent the breast over-cooking.
When ready the lentils will be soft and most of the stock would have been absorbed. Place the bird onto a carving board and cover with foil and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Pour any juices into the lentil and bean mix. To thicken the lentils and beans simply blitz some to a paste and return to the pan and stir through. |
Originally the standard formula for Brazilian style barbecue was to coat meats in coarse salt. The meat would then sit for about 30 minutes to absorb the salt and then was placed over the fire. Later a salt-water baste was used to keep meats moist during the cooking. Beef was typically never seasoned. Poultry and lamb, however are spiced with a rich marinade the night before cooking. Meats are places on long sword-like skewers and cooked over an open fire.
Churrasco is much more than a way of cooking in Brazil ; it’s a way of life. The Barbecue capital of Brazil is the city of Nova Brescia which has a statue of a man cooking barbecue in the central plaza. In the 1940’s this city had a population of about 150,000. Since then the population has dropped to about 30,000 due to the mass exodus of people leaving to open Barbecue restaurants across the country.
The popularity of Brazilian Barbecue has lead to the founding of dozens of restaurants, popping up all over the world. If you get the chance I whole-heartedly recommend that you give one a try. On the menu you will usually find prime rib, linguica (a Portuguese sausage), lamb kebabs, chicken legs, fish and a whole host of other dishes.
All meats are cooked on long skewers placed on racks over the fire with fattier items placed on top so that the juices will drip down and flavor the other cuts. When the meats are cooked waiters carry the skewers around table to table carving off pieces onto your plate. Without moving from your table you can experience virtually unlimited dishes until your stomach fails you and it’s time to lumber home. This is truly a great dining experience.
You can experience this at home. Kebabs are one of the easiest things to grill. And since the tradition is to place only one kind of meat on each skewer the problem of different cooking times is eliminated. The next time you have an army over try a good Brazilian Barbecue.
Following ,2 sites of good Brazilian Steak Houses in North America :
1- FOGO DE CHAO : http://www.fogodechao.com ( stores in many places in USA like Chicago, Las Vegas , Beverly Hills, Dallas, Houston , Miami and many more )
2- GAUCHOS BRAZILIAN BARBECUE- http://www.brazilianbbq.ca- ( calgary and Kenmore ) |
Poppies in Remembrance copy
In our world, great suffering prevails. Together, with caring hearts, let us stand in gratitude for those who have sacrificed their lives for freedom, and send prayers to those whose lives are tattered by the scars of war, violence, and desolation.
When I was a little girl, I remember how special it was to have an orange poppy, crisp and bright, pinned to my shirt in memory of those lost and loved. Each year, visiting the grave of my papa with freshly picked flowers gave me a blossoming hope for the future. In later years, in my studies of fairy tale folklore, I learned about the sacred meaning of tears in myth and fable. They are the waters of life, flowing from the heart; the waters of the soul that nourish the ground with fertile tenderness, a symbol of rebirth.
It is from this moist, fertile ground that the flowers bloom and forever reign as earth’s rainbow, adorning the fields and valleys with glorious beauty. Hence, herein lies the significance of the Poppy on Memorial Day.
In late 1914, the fields of Northern France and Flanders were once again ripped open as World War I raged through Europe's heart. Once the conflict was over, the poppy was one of the only plants to grow on the otherwise barren battlefields. The significance of the poppy as a symbol of the fallen was evoked by Canadian surgeon, John McCrae, in his poem, In Flanders Fields. The poppy represented the immeasurable sacrifice made by his comrades and became a lasting memorial to those who died in World War I and in later conflicts.
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row by row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders Fields. ~ John McCrae
We offer the healing properties of the Poppy in honor of those we love. Healing benefits of the Oriental Poppy:
The Poppy calls you back to your true home in Nature, where your soul speaks directly to you, delivering its many sacred messages. Deep in your heart, the muses are aroused and the plant and animal spirits surround you, offering healing and transformative support as you find your way toward renewed light and restoration.
May our paths be blessed with gratitude, |
Emergencies can, and do, happen at any time. Being prepared and discussing emergency situations with your dentist is the best way to save valuable time and stress in the unfortunate situation of a dental emergency. Knowing what to do can be the difference between losing and saving a tooth. Always have your dentist’s number readily available in the case of an emergency.
You should always contact your dentist right away in an emergency situation. If you lose a permanent tooth, try to keep it moist while you get to the dentist. You can try placing it back in the socket if that is not painful, or between your cheek and gums. If that is not possible, placing it in milk can help improve the chances of saving the tooth.
If you crack a tooth or bite your tongue or lip, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. For toothaches or objects stuck in your mouth, gently use floss to clean the area and remove any debris. Do not put aspirin on your teeth or gums and never use a sharp object on your teeth.
Wearing a mouthguard during physical activity will help protect your teeth. And avoid chewing foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy to reduce the chances of cracking a tooth. Also, refrain from cutting or tearing objects with your teeth.
If you have a dental emergency, contact us immediately. |
Annual herb with a taproot 10 - 40 cm tall Flowers: in a branched cluster, stalked, white, 2 - 3 mm long. Sepals four, green. Petals four, longer than sepals. Stamens six. Fruit: a narrow pod, upright on an ascending stalk, 1.5 - 2.5 cm long. Stems: multiple, upright, typically unbranched, green or sometimes purplish, round in cross-section. Basal leaves: numerous, usually in a rosette, pinnately divided, persistent, sometimes shallowly few-lobed. Terminal leaflet rounded to kidney-shaped. Stem leaves: two to five, alternate, pinnately divided, stalked. Leafstalks with a fringe of hairs, usually at base. Lateral leaflets reverse egg-shaped to oblong to linear- spatula-shaped, with one or two teeth along the margins, usually hairy above.
Similar species: The similar Cardamine parviflora, C. parviflora var. arenicola, and C. pensylvanica differ by not having a marginal fringe of hairs at the base of the leafstalks (on stem leaves).
Flowering: mid-April to early June
Habitat and ecology: Introduced from Europe. A common weed found in cultivated ground. Has also been found in waste ground and along railroads.
Occurence in the Chicago region: non-native
Etymology: Cardamine comes from the Greek word kardamon, which refers to plants in the cress family. Hirsuta means hairy.
Annual with glabrous stems 1-4 dm; basal lvs numerous and conspicuous in comparison with the few small stem-lvs, the pl appearing subscapose; terminal lfl of basal lvs rotund to reniform, entire to shallowly few-lobed; petioles of the cauline lvs ciliate at least at base; lateral segments of the cauline lvs gradually narrower toward the top of the stem, obovate-oblong to linear-spatulate, often with 1 or 2 teeth, commonly hirsutulous above; pet white, 2-3 mm; pedicels narrowly ascending; frs erect, 1.5-2.5 cm; 2n=16. Widely distributed in the Old World; naturalized in moist, especially sandy soil from s. N.Y. to Ill. and Ala. Mar., Apr.
Gleason, Henry A. & Cronquist, Arthur J. 1991. Manual of vascular plants of northeastern United States and adjacent Canada. lxxv + 910 pp. |
In the first version of this recipe I made, I found that the bits of pineapple weren’t a huge hit, although the muffins did turn out super moist. I decided to try substituting the pineapple with mashed bananas and to add a 1/4 cup of skim milk to make the muffins a little bit more nutritious.
I think they turned out pretty good — the perfect breakfast muffin for on-the-go.
Here is the beautiful and moist batter:
Ready for the oven:
And ready to eat!
These muffins freeze well. I usually defrost them overnight then bring a couple to school with me the next morning.
Carrot & Banana Muffins
Adapted from the Food Network website
- 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 & 1/3 cups dark brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons wheat germ
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup skim milk
- 8 medium carrots, grated (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup very ripe mashed bananas (about 3 bananas)
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line twenty-four 1/2-cup muffin cups with paper muffin liners.
Whisk flours with the brown sugar, wheat germ, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In another medium bowl lightly whisk the egg, then whisk in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and skim milk.
Quickly and lightly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula. Stir in the carrots and mashed bananas just until evenly moist; the batter will be very thick.
Divide batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the centers comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Turn muffins out of the tins and cool on a rack.
Makes 24 tasty and nutritious muffins!
Now that I’ve modified this recipe, I think it is okay for me to call it my own, even if I did only change two ingredients! |
Otways Victoria Australia
The scenic beauty of the Otways is only a short 2 - 3 hour drive from Melbourne. Visitors can discover the lush tranquil secrets of the Victorias newest national park - the Great Otway National Park which incorporates the former Otway National Park. The Great Otway National Park now covers 103,000 hectares - an increase of 60,000 hectares. The beautiful Otways Hinterland encompasses many cascading waterfalls, lush fern gullies and walking trails, and the newly developed walking and riding trails such as the Beechyline Rail Trail and Forrest Mountain Bike trails. The Great Otway National Park covers the area between Aireys Inlet and Lavers Hill on the Great Ocean Road, and the lush hinterland to the west.
Lake Elizabeth in the town of Forrest is in the heart of the Otways, formed by a natural landslide on the Barwon River, creating the peaceful lake that visitors can enjoy today. Lake Elizabeth is home to platypus and waterbird colonies which can be seen at dawn or dusk, either by taking a quiet stroll around the lake, or a tour with a local guide.
The scenic drives in the area take visitors to areas of tall timber forests where even on a summers day, the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees creates a tranquil and cooling atmosphere. The moist dampness of the rainforest can be enjoyed by stopping to do a short waterfall walk in the area such as Triplet Falls, Beauchamp Falls or Hopetoun Falls, or to experience the massive grandeur of old growth forests take the short walk at Melba Gully to find the aptly named "Big Tree". Driving towards the coast from Skenes Creek towards Apollo Bay, visitors can enjoy driving from the depths of the rainforest, towards the stunning views of the coastline. The newly upgraded Turtons Track meanders its way from Tanybryn to Beech Forest, once an old logging track, now a gravel road that winds past 1850s mountain ash trees and lush rainforest gullies.
Click the links below for more information on the Otways Region! |
Santé et sécurité
What To Keep In Mind
When you’re thinking about any product for your home, health and safety are obviously a priority—and insulation is no different. When it comes to health and safety properties, not all types of insulation are equal. Here is an outline of some general considerations for different insulation types.
One thing to note is some of these considerations may be covered by code. When the product manufacturer’s instructions conflict with your local code authority’s regulations, follow the more stringent of the two.
Fire resistance is, naturally, a primary consideration for insulation in a home. Some factors to consider when comparing insulation types for fire safety are:
Mineral Fiber Insulation
Materials are noncombustible, and remain so for the life of the product. They require no additional fire-retardant chemical treatments, and in fact, some unfaced mineral fiber products (fiberglass, rock wool, and slag wool) are accepted as fire stopping and as a fire block material.
Products are largely made of newspaper, which is highly combustible. Needs to be heavily treated with fire-retardant chemicals prior to installation.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam and combustible foamed plastic insulations must be protected by adequate thermal barriers and can not be left exposed to the living environment.
Not all insulation materials have undergone the same level of testing and scrutiny when it comes to health and safety.
Mineral Fiber Insulations
The International Agency of Research on Cancer (IARC) has stated that mineral fiber (fiberglass, rock wool, and slag wool) thermal and acoustic insulations are not considered classifiable as to carcinogenicity.
Questions about the health and safety aspects of cellulose insulation persist in the building industry, because very little medical or scientific testing of the products has been conducted. There’s still a need for full toxicological testing of dust from cellulose building insulation and dust from pure cellulose fibers. Safety conclusions can’t really be drawn until extensive testing is completed.
The safety of spray foam insulation is still being evaluated. If you’re worried about the impact of chemicals on your home and family, you’ll want to learn more about the chemical components of spray foam. According to the California Department of Toxic Substance Control, one of the main ingredients in spray foam, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, could post a number of health risks, including lung damage and asthma.
Different spray foam manufacturers publish different guidelines for length of evacuation times during installation and curing. Note that there are no established evacuation timelines from any government agency.
Mould can grow in any environment where there’s moisture and food for mould spores, so many organic materials can be food for mould. Even though some products claim to be mould-resistant, it can grow on ANY surface under moist conditions if organic material exists to support the spores. Some considerations when insulating to avoid mould are:
- Mineral fiber insulation is inorganic, and therefore doesn’t feed mould growth
- Cellulose and spray foam insulation are composed of organic material, so they can be a food source for mould, unless properly treated with chemicals or other agents that can prevent or inhibit mould growth
Risk of corrosion to pipes, wires, and fasteners is a factor to consider at all phases of home building or improvement, and insulation is no exception. Your insulation choices can affect the possibility of corrosion, including:
- Fiberglass, rock wool, and flag wool insulation are not corrosive and contains no chemicals that can corrode pipes and wires
- Cellulose insulation contains certain chemicals routinely applied as a fire retardant to some cellulose insulation. These chemicals, particularly the sulfates, can cause the corrosion of pipes, wires, and fasteners under some conditions
K. Sheppard, R. Weil, and A. Desjarlais, “Corrosiveness of Residential Thermal Insulation Materials Under Simulated Service Conditions,” Insulation Materials, Testing and Applications, D.L. McElroy and J.F. Kimpflen, Eds. (ASTM: Philadelphia, PA, 1990), pp. 634-654; “Corrosiveness Testing of Thermal Insulation Materials – A Simulated Field Exposure Study Using a Test Wall, Report ORNL/Sug. 78-7556/4, September 1988 |
Hellstrip Gardening by Evelyn J. Hadden is a book intended to help transform roadside beds (or any neglected or hard to garden spot) into a verdant and productive green space. A “paradise,” if you will. Last week, I introduced the concept of hellstrips and briefly discussed the first section of Hadden’s book. This week we are looking at the second section, which is all about the unique challenges and obstacles that hellstrip gardening entails. Hadden has divided this section into 8 main areas of focus. She provides a ton of great information that is sure to be incredibly useful for anyone seriously engaged in improving a hellstrip. If you are one of those people, I highly recommend referring to the book. For simplicity’s sake, this post will include a quick overview of each of the main themes, detailing a few of the things that stood out to me.
Working with Trees
Trees offer many benefits to urban and suburban areas; however, it is not uncommon to see hellstrips with trees that are much too large for the space. Hellstrips are often surrounded by paved surfaces and are heavily trafficked. This leads to soil compaction which results in roots being starved of oxygen and water. Where there are power lines overhead, oversized trees must be heavily pruned to make room for them. Consider planting small or medium sized trees in these spaces. Make sure the soil is well aerated and that there is enough space for the roots to expand out beyond the canopy. Hadden advises avoiding growing turfgrass below trees because it is shallow rooted and uses up much of the available water and oxygen; instead plant deep rooted perennials that naturally grow in wooded environments.
Working with Water
Depending on where you are located, your hellstrip is either going to be water limited or water abundant. Water availability also varies depending on the time of year. If you are mostly water limited, include plants that can tolerate drought conditions. Avoid planting them too close to each other so that they aren’t competing for water. Increase your soil’s water holding capacity by adding organic matter and mulching bare ground. Strategically placed boulders can create cool, moist microclimates where plants can endure hot, dry stretches. If you are dealing with too much water, you can “increase the absorption power” of your property by ensuring that your soil is well aerated and high in organic matter. Plant high water use perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees with extensive root systems. Replace impermeable surfaces with ground covers and permeable pathways to reduce runoff, and reshape beds so that they collect, hold, and absorb excess runoff.
Working with Poor Soil
Curbside beds in urban areas are notorious for having soil that is compacted, contaminated, and depleted of nutrients. This issue can be addressed by removing and replacing the soil altogether or by heavily amending it. Another solution is to only include plants that can tolerate these harsh conditions. Most likely you will do something in between these two extremes. Adding organic matter seems like the best way to improve soil structure and fertility. Because contaminants from paved surfaces are regularly introduced to curbside gardens, there is a good chance that the soil may contain high levels of lead and other heavy metals. It is a good idea to test the soil before planting edibles. Contaminated soils can be remediated by growing certain plants like annual sunflowers, which take up heavy metals into their tissues. These plants must then be disposed of as hazardous waste.
Common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is one of several plants that can be used to remediate polluted soil (photo credit: www.eol.org)
Working with Laws and Covenants
Regulations and restrictions may prohibit you from creating the hellstrip garden you dream of having. Start by informing yourself of your areas laws and covenants. Some restrictions may be based on public safety (such as restrictions on street trees) while others may be based on outdated ways of thinking. Hadden advises not to assume that a regulation can’t be reversed; however, first you must prepare a well reasoned argument based on facts and evidence. Will your landscape design conserve resources, provide ecological services, improve property values, enhance the neighborhood in some way? Perhaps “your property can model a new landscaping strategy.” Prepare to state your case respectfully, intelligently, and convincingly, and you might just find yourself at the forefront of a new movement.
Living with Vehicles
A garden growing along a roadway is sure to be confronted by vehicles. Hadden suggests using “easily replaceable plants for vulnerable areas.” You can also protect your garden by installing a low fence or wall or by planting sturdy shrubs, prickly plants, or plants that are tall and/or brightly colored. If parking is a regular occurrence, leave room for people to exit their vehicles without trampling the garden. A garden surrounded by paved surfaces will be hotter than other areas on your property, so plant heat tolerant plants or shade the garden with trees and shrubs. A hedge, trellis, fence, or berm can act as a wind and dust break and can help reduce noise. Aromatic plants can help combat undesirable urban smells, and noise can be further masked by water features and plantings that attract songbirds.
Living with Wildlife
Wildlife can either be encouraged or discouraged depending on your preferences. Discouraging certain wildlife can be as simple as “learn[ing] what they need in terms of food and shelter, and then eliminat[ing] it.” A garden full of diverse plant life can help limit damage caused by leaf-eating insects. Encouraging birds and bats can also help control insects. Herbivory by mammals can be reduced by growing a wide array of plants and not over fertilizing or overwatering them. Conversely, encouraging wildlife entails discovering what they like and providing it. For example, to encourage large populations of pollinators, plant a diversity of plants that flower throughout the year and provide nesting sites such as patches of bare ground for ground nesting bees. Keep in mind that your property can be part of a wildlife corridor – a haven for migrating wildlife in an otherwise sea of uninhabitable urban space.
Living with Road Maintenance and Utilities
Curbsides gardens are unique in that they are directly affected by road maintenance and they often must accommodate public utility features like electrical boxes, fire hydrants, street signs, and telephone poles. In areas where salts are applied to roads to reduce ice, hellstrips can be planted with salt tolerant plants and can be deeply watered in order to flush salts down into the soil profile. In areas that receive heavy snowfall, avoid piling snow directly on top of plants. Always call utility companies before doing any major digging to find out where underground pipes and electrical cables are located. Utility features can be masked using shrubs, trellises, and vining plants (especially annual vines that are easily removed and replaced); just be sure to maintain access to them. If your hellstrip consists of “unsightly objects,” Hadden recommends “composing a riveting garden scene to divert attention from an uninspiring view.”
Living with the Public
Your hellstrip is the most public part of your yard, so you are going to have to learn to share. In order to keep trampling to a minimum and contained to certain areas, make it obvious where pathways are and use berms to raise up the beds. Keep the paths clear of debris and avoid messy fruit and nut trees that can make pathways unfriendly to walk on. Avoid planting rare and valuable plants in your curbside garden. Remember that your hellstrip is typically the first part of your property that people see, so make a good first impression. Also, consider the potential that your public hellstrip garden has for building community and inspiring others.
There is so much more in this section; it is impossible to discuss it all here. Again, if you are serious about improving a hellstrip, get your hands on this book. All hellstrips are different and will have unique challenges. Hadden does a great job of touching on nearly any issue that may arise. Now that we’ve covered challenges and obstacles, next week we will look at designing, building, and managing hellstrip gardens. |
I ordered the lamb platter, my uncle added shrimp to our dishes, he ordered the mixed meat platter which consisted of quail, pork, lamb and beef. My auntie ordered the chicken platter.
It came with a hefty salad I couldn’t finish. We also got kalamari, which I didn’t find too memorable. I thought the quail was delicious, as I’ve never had it before. It was moist, well spiced and a big portion. The same could be said for the rest of the meats served to us.
My uncle asked me why I loved lamb so much. A friend in college made me a lamb dish when I had a couple rough months and wasn’t eating too well, and it was the best meal ever, so I just associate it with that. I also love eating at Stephos with my family back here in Vancouver. More recently, my favorite hero, Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games loves eating lamb stew.
And the lamb at Astoria? Fantastic. Not too fatty and not too gamey. I was so full but I finished it all because their lamb just hit the spot for me. |
Breakfast at Blanch House
Brighton Food Reviewer, Laura Stevens, July 2015
Blanch House is a hugely popular boutique Hotel located in quirky, fashionable Kemptown, a stone’s throw from the seafront and a short walk from Brighton city centre. This AA 3 Star Town House Hotel is owned by Kerry Turner and Jeremy Ornellas who clearly have the right idea as it was named as TripAdvisor certificate of excellence winner for 2015.
It is a beautiful Grade II Listed Regency Town House and boasts 12 sumptuous, individually designed rooms, as well as a fabulous champagne and cocktail bar. Exclusive hire is available for events and special occasions and their Belle Epoque Suite is fully licensed for weddings and civil partnerships. The kitchen is run by Chef Sean Dickens and uses local, free-range produce wherever possible.
Assistant manager Josie made us feel exceptionally welcome when we arrived and looked after us impeccably throughout our visit.
Award Winning Breakfast
My husband and I were there to sample Blanch House’s award-winning breakfast.
We were led into their grand, spacious dining room, with it’s high ceiling, sage green walls and lovely, almost Picasso-esque artwork. The tables were well-spaced and very clean and there were pretty flowers dotted about the room. The music was a mix of soothing and subtly invigorating tracks, perfect for those of us who need to be gently eased into consciousness in the morning.
We were quickly brought some excellent tea and coffee, which was sorely needed after an early start and we helped ourselves to copious quantities of good quality fresh orange juice.
Having settled in we ordered a round of toast and went to survey the breakfast buffet. There was a beautiful basket of fruit as well as fruit salad, home-made granola bars, croissants and cereal and three different types of fruit juice. Andrew had a golden, buttery croissant and I tried a granola bar. It was really yummy, sweet and amazingly soft, chewy with fruit and crunchy with nuts.
When the toast arrived I enjoyed it simply with butter but Andrew was intent on making the most of the gorgeous selection of home-made condiments. He lathered his toast in first a rich, fruity strawberry jam, then a delightfully light, zingy lemon curd, and finally a stunning marmalade with a powerful, bitter sweet hit of oranges.
Having grazed for far longer than we really should have (it’s so hard not to enjoy a little bit of everything on offer when it all looks so good!) we ordered our “main” breakfasts. We had intended to have different breakfasts so that we could showcase the greatest variety of dishes possible but when it came to the crunch there was nothing else for it, we both *had* to have the Full English.
If I had been staying there for a few days I absolutely would have worked my way through the whole delicious-sounding menu, which included a vegetarian Full English, scotch pancakes (with or without crispy bacon), smoked salmon with scrambled eggs or just eggs and toast, and yes, you can have boiled eggs with soldiers if you’d like.
However, we only had one chance, so Full English’s all round it was! They came with a juicy, whole, oven-roasted tomato, a lovely, succulent, flat mushroom, two rashers of properly thick, meaty bacon, a huge, delicious ‘butcher’s choice’ sausage, two eggs cooked to your liking and a seriously hefty slice of rich, earthy black pudding. Andrew had his eggs scrambled and they were moist and very tasty.
I had mine perfectly fried, with luscious runny yolks. It was a seriously hearty breakfast and incredibly filling.
We definitely had to sit and digest for a bit before heading off but there was not the slightest suggestion of being rushed. When we did leave, we were still utterly stuffed and there was no doubt we were properly set up to deal with whatever the day ahead might throw at us.
Breakfast will set you back £15.95 for non-residents but is included for guests. |
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The first Acadians to settle in Canada were mostly farmers, soldiers and craftspeople. Many came from rural areas of mid-west France and brought with them the agrarian and culinary traditions of their native France. Their diet resolved around the agricultural products that they brought with them from France and those introduced to them by the Amerindians such as, seasonal fruits of nature, fishing and hunting. During the Spring and Summer months, wild game and fish provided settlers with a steady source of protein, while the family gardens provided peas and a large variety of other vegetables.
Among the agricultural products that the Acadians adopted from the Amerindians were corn, beans, and squash, known to the Amerindians as "The Three Sisters". These products were the result of the companion-planting of corn, beans and squash each beneficial to the other. The sturdy corn stalk gave the beans vine support; the beans produced nitrogen for the corn and the squash nines; shaded the grounds, keeping down weeds and conserving moisture in the soil. Not only did the Amerindians plant the Three Sisters crop together, but they believed that these vegetables were supposed to be eaten together. One dish that resulted in this concept was SUCCOTASH.
The Acadian farmers found the land in Acadia, protected by mountain ridges and suitable for growing wheat, buckwheat, corn, turnips, cabbage, potatoes and beans. They grew fruit such as pears, apples, plums, and cherries. They supplemented their diet with wild game such as moose, bear, rabbit, partridge, geese, ducks, teal, plover, pigeons and marsh birds and they fished for cod, salmon, shad, bass, eel, smelt and a variety of shell fish. Staples of the Acadian diet included herring, cod, potatoes, pork (mostly in the form of salt pork) and local grains made into pancakes (plogues), biscuits and bread.
During the months of August, the Acadians harvested wheat, barley and rye... and transported their grain to local mills for grinding. Although the Acadians raised a lot of cattle, sheep and pigs, they did not eat a lot of meat, especially veal or any other young animal. In Autumn, the most surplus livestock were allocated for trade, or sold outright. They slaughtered their animals only when they were no longer fit to use as work animals or able to provide them with milk, eggs, wool etc.. When they did, the choicer cuts of meat were sold, Some beef and pork was consumed immediately, but most of the meat salted for use during the approaching Winter
The Acadians had an affinity for salt pork. Turnips and cabbages were staple of their Winter diet. The cabbages were allowed to remain in the snow-covered field until they were gathered in small amounts for immediate consumption. The turnips were harvested and stored in cellars.
A portion of the apple crop was made into cider. Alcohol was available (both imported and smuggled rum) and home-made wine and cider however, the beverage preferred by the Acadians, was spruce-sprout beer.
Like in other areas of French Canada, some of the recipes brought to Acadia from France generations ago, are still made exactly as they were in Europe. Others were adapted to the foods and the way of life in Acadia, resulting in a combination of true French cuisine, Acadian-French alterations and many dishes that were born in Acadia and had never been served in any other country.
Traditional recipes evolved mainly from the use of foods that could be stored for the long cold Winters and every home maintained a supply of dried salt codfish, potatoes and salted pork fat and, a favourite dish was a combination of these ingredients. Some other favourites were GROSSE SOUPE (a hearty soup of beef shank, onions, herbs, beans, peas, green beans, cabbage, turnips, corn, carrots and potatoes; RAPURE (a baked casserole of a mixture of salt pork, pork fat, onions, grated and mashed potatoes); and MIOCHE AU NAVEAU (mashed potatoes and turnips). Buttered bread spread with molasses often served as dessert. Pastries and cakes were reserved for Sundays, but dishes such as pancakes (plogues) and poutines (dumplings) would be considered 'special' desserts today. Potatoes provided the staple of the Acadian diet and, boiled in meat or fish stock, made a wholesome and satisfying dish called FRICOT.
They supplemented their diets with wild game such as black bear, moose, snowshoe hare (rabbits) and partridges, Canada goose, ducks, plover marsh birds and the now extinct passenger pigeon. They also fished for salt water cod, salmon, shad, stripped bass, eel, smelt and a variety of shell fish.
Following the expulsion of the Acadians, those who escaped the deportation and those who returned and resettled mostly along the coastal areas, found themselves in a completely different environment that they had been accustomed... isolated culturally, the Acadians had to respond to new and different circumstances, forcing them to make the most of what they had. Unlike their forebears who had continued agrarian traditions brought from France, the resettled Acadians living by the sea, lost their agricultural and culinary traditions and put new ones in their place. By necessity, they learned to tap the rich resources of the sea. Over time, the struggle to put food on the table developed into a unique culinary tradition and imaginative response to the land and the sea.
Unlike the staples of the Acadian diet, the gaspereau and shad which served as important secondary sources of protein, required less cooking but higher temperatures. Hence, fish were usually fried in oil... probably bear oil (much to the chagrin of French travelers) because butter was practically unknown in Acadia.
On the whole, Acadian cooking was uncomplicated, keeping the number of ingredients to a minimum and the method of preparation simple. In fact, many dishes were a one-pot meal, such as FRICOTS and CHOWDERS. If there is one dish that could be called "typically Acadian", it would be FRICOT, which is a soup containing potatoes and meat (usually chicken), fish and/or seafood. Although a fricot may vary from one region to another, to this day the dish will always have the same basic ingredients... meat and potatoes in a hearty broth, with dumplings called poutines or grand-pères. Fricots are rich in calories and, with fresh bread... "a meal in themselves"! Fricots and poutine rapées continue to be a central part of today's Acadian cuisine, together with meat pies and paté à la rapures... followed by poutines a trous.
Ordinary meals did not usually include a dessert and the main meal was often followed by bread and molasses, or included pancakes and dumplings (called POUTINES).
The morning meal (breakfast) was usually the heartiest and was served after they had worked-up an appetite from the morning chores and would BOUDIN (blood pudding), CRETONS, GRILLADES and TOURTIERES (meat pies) as well as leftovers from the previous day's meals. The three meals of the day were called déjeuner (breakfast), dîner (dinner) and souper (supper).
Age-old Acadian cooking techniques remained fundamentally unaltered throughout the late eighteenth century, despite radical changes in their diet. The Acadians utilized two main cooking techniques; boiling or frying in chaudrons (black cast-iron pots). Turnips and cabbages were cooked by boiling together into a "soupe de la Toussaint", an extremely popular pre-expulsion delicacy during Winter months.
In general, cooking techniques for fish were quite simple... salted herbs, a combination of onions, chives and green onions cut into 1/2 inch cubes and layered with coarse sea salt and pepper in a glass crock, and boiled until a brine formed. The fresh fish (caught daily) were then simmered in this seasoned water and then fried.
Except for a few dishes, frying was restricted to fish and baking was restricted to bread. Whole wheat or mixed grain bread was served at major meals, according to eighteenth century observers, and loaves were inevitably consumed with molasses and locally produced maple syrup.
An Acadian specialty, "rappie pie" is still served (usually) on Sundays and festive occasions in some parts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Rapée or rapure are French terms meaning "grated". The dish consists of grated potaoes, layered with meat and broth and baked until golden brown.This dish is to the Axadians of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, what "Poutine Râpée" is to the Acadians of southeastern New Brunswick... a favourite! In certain parts of New Brunswick, it is called "Pâté à la râpure, "Paté râpé" or "Chiard". While the preparation of Râpure is similar in most areas, the ingredients often vary from one region to another, or even from one family to another. Some Acadians add pork, others add chicken or seafood, while still othersuse only grated or mashed potatoes, or sometimes day-old bread.
Cook fowl, onions, carrot, celery and salt in enough water to cover ingredients. Bring to a boil and skim. Simmer until meat is tender (about 2 1/2 hours). Remove skin and bones and cut meat in pieces. Strain broth. Fry salt pork until crisp. Peel potatoes; grate very fine, or purée in electric blender. Working with about 1 cup of potato at a time, squeeze it in a clean dish towel to remove as much liquid as possible (save liquid). Empty potato into large bowl (at this stage potato feels like snow). Combine half of the saved potato liquid water, to an equal amount of chicken broth, bring to boil and gradually stir into potato to mix thoroughly (potato will swell). Spread a layer of potato mixture in bottom of greased roasting pan (15 X 20 inches) and cover with a layer of chicken. Repeat layers until dish is full, ending with potato. Sprinkle with salt porl. Bake at 400°F until top starts to brown (30 minutes). Turn oven control to 350°F and continue baking until brown and crusty (2 hours). 10 to 12 servings.
Cut the pork into cubes and sauté them in a frting pan. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Set the meat and onions aside.
Grate the raw potatoes and extract the water from the potatoes by putting them in a cotton bag and sqeezing vigorously. (Note: The potatoes may first be rinsed in cold water, to remove their starchy pink colour).
Placed the mashed potatoes in a large bowl with the meat, onions, grated potatoes, eggs, salt, pepper, summer savory and coriander and combine them thoroughly.
Place the pork fat in a 8" (20 cm.) X 15" (35 cm.) casserole dish and pour the potatoes over the pork fat. Sprinkle with the pieces of fried salt pork.
Bake at 350 degrees F. (180 degrees C.), for at least two hours, or until the top is golden brown.
Variation: Substitute the pork in this recipe by chicken. Or, the two meats may be mixed together.
Cut the chicken into large pieces and put them into a pot with just enough water to completely cover the meat. Add the onions and simmer until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken from the pot, but save the chicken broth.
Remove the meat from the bones and cut into small pieces.
Grate the potatoes. Extract all of the water from the potatoes by putting them in a cotton bag and squeezing vigorously.
Bring the chicken broth to a boil. Scald the potatoes in an amount of broth equal to two-thirds of the water extracted from the potatoes. Blend the broth with potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
In a heavy pot, sauté half of the cubed salt pork. Add half of the potato mixture, the chicken and then cover with the remaining potato mixture.
Cut the remaining salt pork into strips and place them on the râpure. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until the top is uniformly brown.
Variation: The chicken may be replaced by hare, mussels or clams.
For many Acadians living in southwestern New Brunswick, Poutines Rapée, a potato dumpling with a mixture of seasoned pork in the centre, is considered a national dish. In other parts of Acadia, these delicacies are prepared without meat and are sometimes added to fricot (see recipe below). Although the greyish colour and gluey testure of the poutines make them appear somewhat unappetizing, their taste more than compensates for their unattractive appearance.
Soak the pork overnight in cold water to remove the salt, and cut into cubes.
Extract the water from the grated potatoes, by putting them in a cotton bag and squeezing vigorously.
Mix the mashed potatoes with the grated potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Roll the potatoe mixture into a ball resembling small snowballs. Make a hole in the centre of the potato ball and add 1 tbsp. (15 ml.) of the salt pork. Close the hole and roll the poutines in flour.
Gently drop the poutines, 2 or 3 at a time, into a large pot of boiling salted water, ensuring that the water is kept at a rolling boil. Simmer the poutines for 2 to 3 hours.
Eat the poutines hot with butter, salt and pepper, or as a desert with sugar and molasses.
Makes 6 poutines.
Variation: In Chéticamp, Acadians make a large Poutine à la râpure, which they call Cochon en sac (Pig in a Bag). To make this simple variation, add salt, baking powder and flour to the grated potatoes. Cook the Cochon by steaming it in a large cotton bag. Serve with sugar and molasses. [Note from Yvon: I personally saw a group of Acadians enjoying the poutines, with ketchup and/or mustard]! Poutines may also be cut into slices and fried with butter.
Poutines Rapées are a mixture of raw grated potatoes, combined with cooked and mashed potatoes and then formed into a ball, stuffed with seasoned salt pork and then simmered in salted water. They are served with brown sugar or molasses (and I have seen them eaten with mustard).
Soak the salted pork overnight to remove the excess salt. Cut into cubes. Grate the uncooked potatoes and extract the water from the grated potatoes by squeezing them in a cloth. Mix the grated dried potatoes with the mashed-seasoned potatoes. Add seasoning if necessary. Make a hole in the center of the potato ball with your thumb and add tablespoon of the cubed salted pork. Close the hole and roll the poutine in white flour and then gently lower them in a large pot filled with boiling salt water. Keep the water boiling and simmer the poutines for 2 to 3 hours. Serve hot with butter, salt and pepper, or as a dessert with sugar a molasses. Makes 6 poutines.
Potatoes had many uses in the kitchen of the early Acadian settlers. The residue squeezed from the grated pulp for dishes such as pâté à la râpure, became the starch for the family laundry. Potatoes were used to soathe headaches and to make yeast for bread; and small pieces made good corks for bottles. As a food, potatoes had no peer. During long winter evenings, slices were often cooked until brown over an open fire, as young folks today toast marshmallows. Grated raw potatoes, salted and cooked on the griddle, became potato pancakes.
The chicken fricot is an ancestor to our chicken and dumplings and can also be made with fish, rabbit, beef, pork, game or no meat at all. The original potato fricot was prepared by early Acadians when neither meat or fish was available and was given the tongue-in-cheek name 'fricot à la belette' (weasel fricot) and, according to folklore, if you ask an Acadian about the origin of the name, they will simply smile and say... "Parc-que la bedette a passé toute droute" (because the 'weasel' [meat] went right on by)!"
Sauté the salt pork (or heat the butter or oil) in a large pot; then sauté the chicken pieces, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and all but about 3 tablespoons of oil or fat. Sauté the diced onions until wilted and slightly golden. Do not burn the onions. Add the flour and let the mixture cook about 1 minute. Add the chicken and boiling water. Season to taste.
Simmer until chicken is tender. Add the diced potatoes and carrots and cook fricot for about 15 to 20 minutes longer. Serve hot or add the drop dumplings pate (or grand-pères); cover and steam the dumplings in the fricot for about 7 minutes longer.
Combine the flour, salt and baking powder. Add the water and mix lightly until blended. Drop by tablespoon size onto the simmering fricot and steam (tightly covered cover) for about 7 minutes.
1. In large saucepan with lid, melt butter with oil.
2. Add onions and pork and saute until onions are soft.
3. Add ham, garlic, thyme and parsley and saute 5 minutes.
4, Add sausage and cook until browned.
5, Stir in stock and bring to boil.
6. Add rice, bay leaf and cayenne.
7. Return to boil and cover.
8. Simmer over very low heat 30 to 45 minutes, checking after 30 minutes to see if all liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender. If necessary, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup more water if liquid boils away before rice is cooked.
Boil the diced potatoes in the salted water for 15 minutes. If fresh corn is used, remove the kernels from the cob and cook the corn with the potatoes. Sauté the onion in butter. Add milk and heat the mixture until it is warm. Add the boiled potatoes and corn and the cooking liquid. Season to taste. Let the mixture stand a few minutes to allow the flavors to enhance, before serving.
Just before serving add 1 tbsp. of butter.
Place the diced turnip and carrots in a large pot. Cover the vegetables with water and bring to a boil, simmer for about 15 minutes. Add the potatoes, chopped onion, salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes Cut pork into small pieces and place in a skillet with a small amount of water. Bring to a boil. Pour off the water and sauté the pork fat until it is lightly browned. Let stand.
Sauté second onion until slightly browned. Add small amount of the vegetable broth to the sauté'ed onion mixture, making a smooth sauce. Add the sauté'ed pork and onion to the boiled vegetables and broth. Soupe au navet is best when served with hot rolls.
In the English speaking world, the word 'soup' means any liquid food made from stock. The French have several names or terms used to describe their different types of soups, depending on the preparation. These names range from bisques, bouillon, and consomé, to potages, purées and even... soup!
"Soupe De La Toussaint" was a meatless soup made with cabbage (often stolen from their neighbours garden, on Halloween), and is similar to Louisiana's traditional vegetable soup, gumbo z'herbes, that is served on Good Friday.
Boil the mixture for about 10 minutes and serve hot.
Note: A beef shank, or soup meat, is an optional addition to the dish. If you use the shank, boil it for about 30 minutes before adding the vegetables.
1. Saute vegetables until transparent. Add 1/8 cup of water and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add crawfish fat, cover and cook for 15 minutes on low.
3, Add crawfish tails, salt and peppers and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Add parsley and onion tops a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve over hot rice.
Soak barley for 30 minutes in cold water. Add dry beans, peas and barley to the broth and simmer for 1-1/2 hours. Add raw vegetables and simmer for an additional hour. Serve the soup (or broth as first course), then the meat and vegetables. Place soup bone and water salt pepper, onions and herbs in large pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer on low heat for 1 hour.
Chowder is a thick, soup with cubed new potatoes enriched with butter, milk and cream, flavored with a touch of chervil to which is added, fish, lobster, scallops, shrimp, etc..
In a medium saucepan combine potatoes, onion and water. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes or until the potatoes are softened, but not cooked through. Add the cubed lobster, salt and pepper to taste and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Add the milk, cream and butter and heat just to a boil. Ladle into warm tureen or bowls and sprinkle with
chopped parsley. Serve with whole-wheat crackers or soda bread. Makes 4 generous servings.
To make a poaching liquid in pot # 1, combine the cold water, celery onion salt, peppercorns, bay leaf parsley and thyme in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes. Add shrimp and cook until the shrimp are opaque and pink. Remove the shrimp. Peel and de-vein the shrimp and set aside. Add the fish in one piece to the poaching liquid and cook
about 5 minutes. The fish should flake. Remove fish with a slotted spoon and break into serving size chunks and set aside with the shrimp. Strain the stock and press the vegetables against the strained to remove all liquid. Return the stock to the saucepan.
Blend the flour and butter together and add to the stock, one spoon full at a time, blending the mixture with a whisk. Reheat and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Reserve over low heat, whisking periodically. Place the 2 cups of water, salt into pot #2 and bring to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until the potatoes are tender. Add the celery and peas and cook for 5 minutes. Transfer the
contents of this pan to the thickened fish stock. Add the reserved fish and shrimp and heat through. Remove the chowder from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Serve immediately in warmed shallow soup bowl, making sure there are enough shrimp and fish pieces in each bowl. Garnish with coriander. Makes 6 servings.
You can prepare both of the above Chowders and substitute chopped shrimp, scallops, cod, salmon or any firm white ocean fish, lump crabmeat or Louisiana crawfish.
1. In a heavy saute pan or saucepan melt the margarine, then add the oil and mix well. Add all the other ingredients except the shrimp and broth, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, then remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, uncovered, at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the sauce, mix thoroughly, and put the pan back on the burner. Cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or just until the shrimp turn pink.
4. Add the broth, shaking the pan back and forth to mix. Preferably, place the pan into a preheated 450 degree F oven and bake for 10 minutes. Or simmer loosely covered on the stovetop for about 5 or 10 minutes.
5. Serve equal portions of shrimp with about 1/2 cup of the sauce ladled over each one. You will need bibs and lots of bread to sop up the sauce. Also, fingers are a necessary eating utensil.
Poultry was scarce in Acadia, so rabbit, which were plentiful, were sometimes roasted and stuffed with a bread stuffing or potato stuffing.
Boil the potatoes and mash. Sauté onion in the butter then add 3 slices of dry stale bread to mixture. Sauté the mixture, and then add potatoes, summer savory, salt and pepper. Moisten the stuffing if necessary. Stuff into chicken or rabbit and roast with potato stuffing at 375 degrees for 2 hours.
In a large pot (French or Dutch oven) add oil and brown the chicken. Remove the chicken pieces and brown the onion and flour in the remaining oil for 1 to 2 minutes. Add water, salt, pepper and savory. Cook until the chicken is tender (1 to 1-1/2 hours, depending on the size of the chicken). Add the potatoes and cook for 20 minutes longer. Serve immediately. Although this recipe is for
a chicken stew, it could easily be converted to a "fricot" by simply adding dumplings called "poutines" or "grands-pères", mentioned above.
1. Dissolve yeast in warm water.
2. Add milk and about 1/2 cup of flour.
3. In a large bowl, blend butter, sugar, salt and eggs.
4. Add yeast dough and mix thoroughly.
5. Gradually, add 2 1/2 cups flour to make a medium dough.
6. Place in a greased bowl and brush with melted butter.
7. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rise until double in volume, about 3 hours.
8. Use 1 cup or more flour to knead dough and roll into a 4 to 5 foot long rope.
9. Form into a oval on a 14 x 17-inch greased cookie sheet, connecting ends of the rope with a few drops of water.
10. Press the doll (or bean) into the dough from underneath.
11. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until double in volume, about 1 hour.
12. Bake at 325 degrees F for 35 to 45 minutes or until lightly browned.
13. Brush top of cake with corn syrup and sprinkle with alternating bands of colored sugar.
King Cakes are traditionally made and eaten after New Years up until Ash Wednesday. A small baby figure is placed in each cake. The person who gets the baby has to provide the next King Cake.
Soak peas in water, over night. The next day, drain the peas and then boil them in fresh clean water. Use a 4- 4 1/2 quart pot. Add onion and ham bone. Cook at "low heat" for two hours. Add diced carrots, rice, ham and cook for a further ten to fifteen minutes.
Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl, with 1 1/2 cup of cold water, until the consistency of cake batter. Add 1/2 cup of hot (not boiling) water and mix well to make a light batter. Spoon enough batter onto a very hot griddle, to make a 4 to 8 inch pancake. Serve with creton... that's _another_ story, butter, or molasses! My own personal favourite, is with maple syrup!
1) Place all above-noted ingredients in a deep pot.
2) After meat starts to cook, allow to simmer on medium-low heat for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally.
3) Remove from stove and allow to cool for at least five minutes.
4) Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer, for at least one minute.
5) Place in small containers and refrigerate.
7) Once cooled in refrigerator, the "cretons" may be frozen for future use. Do not freeze longer than a couple of month. But... there's nothing like "fresh cretons"... spread on ployes, of course!
9) Enjoy some more!
1. Place pineapple and raisins in a bowl. Add rum and set aside to marinate for 48 hours. Break up the bread and soak in the milk, then strain out excess liquid in a sieve and place the mushy bread in a mixing bowl. Drain the rum from the fruit and reserve liquid for making sauce. Add the fruit to the bread, together with melted butter.
2. In a separate bowl beat the eggs with the evaporated milk, vanilla and both sugars and add to the bread and fruit. Mix with a spoon until thoroughly blended. To cook: transfer the mixture to a well-greased 12 x 9-inch baking pan and bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 30 minutes, then remove pan and stir well. Spread the pudding evenly and replace in the oven to bake for a further 40 to 45 minutes. Serve immediately with Hot Rum Sauce.
3. Combine sugar and butter in a double boiler. Beat eggs, add to the pan and whisk rapidly to produce a thick consistency. Remove pan from heat and allow to cool, then stir in rum and reserved marinade. Reheat before pouring over the pudding prior to serving.
Cook all ingredients (except pie crust), stirring constantly until meat is light brown in appearance, but still moist (about 4-5 minutes).
Prepare favourite pie crust.
Pour mixture into pastry-lined pie plate, cover with top crust that has slits in it. Seal and press dough firmly around edges (with a fork), Bake at 400 degrees in oven for about 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Let stand for 35-40 minutes before cutting.
Note: Add ketchup to taste, when eating.
Cook all ingredients together (except pie crust) stirring constantly until meat is light brown in appearance, but still moist, about 4-5 minutes.
Prepare favourite pie crust.
Pour mixture into pastry lined pie plate, cover with with top crust that has slits in it. Seal and press firmly around edges with a fork. Bake at 400 degree in oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, until crust is golden brown. Let stand for 35 to 40 minutes before cutting.
Prepare enough pastry for a double-crust pie and one egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp. water (for glazing).
Combine all ingredients (except pastry and egg yolk). Blend thoroughly. Simmer, uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Skim any excess fat. Cook until mixture is tender and moist, but not wet. Let the meat mixture cool. Remove potato and mash with a fork. Return to meat mixture and mix well. Check seasoning.
Roll dough and line a deep 9 inch pie pan with 2/3 of the pastry. Add the filling. Brush edges of crust with egg glaze. Roll out top crust and arrange on top. Seal, make vent holes to allow steam to escape and brush with egg glaze. Bake the tourtière in a preheated 375 degree oven for 40-50 minutes or until crust is browned.
Cut up potatoes and cook in boiling water foir 20 minutes. Drain, mash.
Brown the pork and drain-off excess fat. Stir-in the rest of the ingredients, 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring often. Discard bay leaf. Stir in potatoes. Allow mixture to cool.
Roll half the pastry into 12 inch circle. Line a 9 inch pie plate. Trim dough even woth rim. Fill with meat mixture. Roll-out remaining dough. Place on top of filing and make slits for steam to escape. Trim to 1/2 inch beyond rim. Seal; flute. Cut-out recorative shapes from dough scraps. Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. Makes 6 servings.
Prepare pastry (Pillsbury) for double crust pie.
In Dutch oven, brown ground pork, veal, bacon pieces. Drain-off excess fat. Stir-in chopped onion, celery, garlic, sage, salt and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of water. Bring meat-vegetable mixture to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes, or until onion is tender, stirring frequently.
Combine cornstarch and 1/4 cup water. Add to hot meat-vegetable mixture, cooking and stirring until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove pan from heat; cool slightly. After mixture cools, line 10-inch pie pan with pie crust. Pour mixture into crust. Top with top crust; cut slits in top crust, Seal and flute crust edge.
Bake pie in 400 degree oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving. Note: Tourtières are usually enjoyed after the Midnight Mass of Christmas.
1. Fry bacon over medium heat until crisp and brown.
2. Add green bell pepper and onion. Cook until tender.
3. Stir in catsup, juice and green pepper sauce. Mix well.
4. Add smoked sausage to sauce and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Serve as is or over rice.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
2 lbs boneless chicken
2 c peeled & cubed potatoes
1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie
2 c chicken broth
2 lbs pork tenderloin
1/4 lb sliced ham
1 tsp salt
4 onions, sliced
2 lbs flank steak
Step #1 Cut chicken, & pork into 1 inch cubes, beef, & place this in a large bowl.
Step #2 Stir in onions.
Step #3 Cover, & put in the fridge overnight.
Step #4 Arrange salt pork evenly in the bottom of a 3 quart casserole dish with a cover.
Step #5 Layer with 1/3 of the meat mixture & 1/3 of the potatoes; season this with salt & pepper.
Step #6 Roll out half of the pastry a little bit thicker than for a normal pie & arrange on the potato layer, cutting a small hole in the middle.
Step #7 Repeat with 2 more layers of meat & potatoes seasoned with salt & pepper.
Step #8 Cover with remaining pastry, & cut a small hole in the middle of that layer too.
Step #9 Slowly add enough chicken stock through the hole until liquid appears.
Step #10 Cover dish.
Step #11 Bake at 400F degrees F (205 degrees C) for 45 mins, or until liquid simmers.
Step #12 Reduce temperature to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C).
Step #13 Bake for 5 to 6 hrs more, or until top crust is a rich golden brown.
Step #14 Enjoy the Cipate Pie recipe.
I am very grateful to Dr. Don J. Landry who published "The Cuisine of Acadia" and gave me permission to reproduce some of its wonderful Acadian recipes on this page.
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Mitoku Brown Rice Mochi - 8.8 oz.
Mitoku Brown Rice Mochi is prepared in the traditional way: steamed whole grain glutinous rice (sweet brown rice) is pounded to a sticky dough, then formed into blocks and dried. When cooked, these "cakes" soften and puff up, becoming delectably moist and chewy. A naturally sweet convenience food with whole grain goodness. Mitoku Brown Rice Mochi is a great mochi for using when you want to add your own flavor, and is the best mochi to use for making up a sweet dish, such as a waffle, with your favorite topping of fresh jam or fruit.
Ingredients: whole-grain sweet brown rice.
Package: Shelf-stable bag |
In the day you can admire pretty fishing villages, eat fabulous fresh seafood, go crabbing in harbours, jump off cliffs and spot dolphins.
Then at night, park up by the sea and let the lapping waves lull you to sleep.
The kids and I followed part of the Coastal Way, one of three newly launched touring routes that offer an unrivalled taste of the country’s gems.
We started our adventure in Caerphilly, where we picked up a six-berth motorhome from the friendly team at Pronto Hire.
Our first stop was Camping On The Farm, a beautiful site next to a stony beach.
A 10-minute amble along the coast led us to the chocolate-box fishing village of Aberaeron with its rows of colourful houses.
My brood – Max, 15, Rosie, 12, and nine-year-old Freddie – found the harbour walls perfect for crabbing.
An ideal place to take in the view is the cool Harbourmaster Hotel’s bar and restaurant on the quay.
We kicked off our meal there with a plate of mouth-tingling oysters and crispy cockles.
I followed with a flavour-packed seafood risotto while Tim opted for the delicious crab, chilli and garlic linguine.
The food was so good we returned the next day for a bang-on breakfast.
Back at the campsite we got to know our motorhome. It was powered by an electric hook-up, had running water and included our own gazebo to relax beneath.
Two sofas converted into double beds and a third bed descended from the ceiling at the push of a button.
There was a tiny bathroom with toilet, basin and shower, and it offered plenty of storage space, too.
In transit, the children sat around a table on the middle sofas, which had four seatbelts fitted.
Next we moved to buzzing New Quay to visit the Wildlife Trust’s free-to-enter Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre.
The bay is home to about 250 bottlenose dolphins and we watched two pods from the harbour with binoculars.
For an even better view we hopped on board a Dolphin Survey Boat Trips vessel (£20 adult/£12 child for two hours).
Our base for the night was delightful Morawelon campsite in Parrog, which has knockout views.
Next day we headed to Preseli Venture near Mathry to try out coasteering – scrambling across cliffs and plunging into the sea (£52 adult/£42 child for half a day).
Kitted out with wetsuits, helmets, gloves and buoyancy aids, we headed to the coast near St Davids. Each jump grew higher or more complex, leading up to a 20ft leap. In between, we swam into tunnels and were tossed around in swells. All ages and abilities can enjoy it.
For a couple of nights we moored up alone alongside the coast for some “wild” camping, running off gas cylinders. A short walk away lay St Davids – Britain’s smallest city with gift shops, craft workshops, cafés and a grand cathedral.
We popped into St Davids Kitchen, a cool bistro serving locally sourced food.
We had lovely moist crab, melt-in-the-mouth lobster with garlic butter, capers and samphire, plus beautifully tender St Davids Welsh Black beef.
It was a magnificent taste of the Welsh Coastal Way – in more ways than one.
GETTING THERE: The Wales Coastal Way runs along Cardigan Bay between Aberdaron and St Davids.
BOOK IT: A six-berth motorhome from Pronto Hire in Caerphilly is from £385 for three days or £596 for seven. |
Preparing for surgery is crucial and can make the difference between a positive experience and a negative one. The following Preparation for Surgery Checklists are needed to make sure that nothing is forgotten and and bring you peace of mind.
Before My Tummy Tuck
Before I had my Tummy Tuck operation I was worried that I might have forgotten to do something before my operation. I scanned the internet compiling everything that I thought appropriate and made the following Pre-Surgery Checklist. By making it as comprehensive as possible, it gave me peace of mind that I had fully prepared for my surgery. I have included it below for other to benefit.
Pre-Surgery Checklists are often given to the patient by the surgeon and provide advice and a list of things to do in order to get ready for the surgery. It is very important for the patient to follow the instructions carefully. The directions given by a plastic surgeon are for your own good, and they will help you have a better recovery, both physically and emotionally.
You may wish to consider combining the following list with that provided by your plastic surgeon, then reviewing with him for his approval. Some of the items listed may not be appropriate for your particular operation. Always follow the surgeons advice.
Checklists For Preparing For Surgery
The following checklists that will help you prepare for your day of surgery.
Prepare your important legal papers including your Will, Emergency contact information, Emergency Instructions, Power of Attorney papers and Living Will. Please see tummy tuck shopping for complete list.
Prepare For Surgery – One Month Before
- Absorbent pads with plastic underlay – sleep on or sit on to prevent blood stains. Pet training pads make a good alternative. Or use Mattress Encasements – Protectabed.com to completely protect your bed.
- Wound dressings & Rolled Gauze – after the first week of recovery and after the incision was closed and partially healed I would substitute toilet paper or paper towels for the rolled gauze to save money.
- Neosporin Antibiotic Ointment – apply to incision areas after surgery.
- Antibacterial soap – bath & wash with the week before surgery and during recovery.
- Fever thermometer – check temperature daily for fever after surgery.
- Scar reducing products – to help fade and reduce scars during recovery.
- Moist towelettes or baby wipes – keep by your bed for general clean up after surgery.
- 6″ elastic bandage – use to hold rolled gauze in place for covering incision areas.
- Ice packs, bags of frozen vegetables – are good for post-operative icing.
- Mild laxatives – may be needed during recovery. Take per your surgeons directions.
- Eye drops – for dry eyes.
- Low salt foods – to minimize swelling
- Acetaminophen products – such as Tylenol. Ask your doctors first.
- Operative medications – prescription medicines prescribed by your surgeon. Fill subscriptions before surgery.
- Straws – for drinking
Surgery Preparation: One Week Before Surgery
- A heating pad, hot water bottle or microwavable hot pack is great for a sore back from sleeping elevated for so long.
- Arrange for someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours following surgery.
- Ask your doctor about Arnica Montana (a homeopathic medicine for bruising & muscle soreness) and Bromelain (helps relieve physical stress).
- Ask your doctor if he thinks you may need valium to help you sleep and ease tense muscles.
- Bath with special antibacterial soap the week before surgery (ask you surgeon).
- Check your temperature and blood pressure regularly at home during recovery.
- Consider pre-operative blood donation.
- Contact your Primary Care Physician’s office to inform them of your upcoming surgery.
- Digital camera with spare batteries to document your recovery as well as providing before and after pictures.
- DO NOT EAT OR DRINK anything after midnight the night before surgery per your doctors instructions.
- Do your laundry and clean your house.
- If needed, equip your bathroom with a safety grip bar or some type of support to grab onto for the tub, toilet or shower.
- Fill your prescriptions given to you by your doctor.
- Make arrangements for kids and pets to be cared for when you come home after surgery.
- Make arrangements to have someone drive you to and from surgery.
- No food, water, hard candy, chewing gum or tobacco after the specified time.
- Notify your physician of any changes in your health such as a cold, fever, flu or other illnesses.
- Obtain a copy of your surgeons pre-operation instructions.
- Prepare a medication time and record chart.
- Prepare a surgical drain time and record chart.
- Prepare you meals in advance.
- Stock the freezer with ice (to reduce swelling if needed).
- Stock up on food. Load your refrigerator and freezer with prepared foods that are easy to heat and serve.
- Stock up on nutritional food such as protein bars, protein shakes, soup, pudding, applesauce, yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, juices, ginger ale and more.
- Stop all herbal medications and weight loss medications per your doctors orders.
- Stop smoking and stop medications per your doctors orders.
- The week before surgery (or as directed by your doctor) wash and bath with antibacterial soap.
Surgery Preparation: The Day Before Surgery
- At home, pre-stage anything you may need within arms reach so that you have no need stretch, reach or bend.
- Close your bedroom window drapes or blinds to darken the room so you can rest easier.
- Position a flash light on your nightstand.
- Have a hand mirror nearby. You may want to check out your sutures while in bed.
- Have a laptop computer or paper and pencil on hand if you are want to surf the net or document your post-operative thoughts in writing.
- Have a night light to illuminate your way to the restroom for night visits.
- Have a pail, paper towels and moist towelettes and plastic trash bags with tops that tie at your bedside and on the ride home. (to clean up messes).
- Have extra bed sheets and blankets on hand.
- Have lots of entertainment on hand such as movies, videogame, books, puzzles and magazines.
- Have plenty of clear liquids, such as water, sugar water, Gatorade, Kool-Aid, Jell-O, apple juice, pulp-free juices, soft drinks and popsicles.
- Have some crackers to help alleviate nausea – especially on the way home.
- Bring a bottle of water with you for the ride home from surgery. Sipping cool water helps alleviate nausea as well as cleans the mouth if you do vomit.
- Lots of pillows, prearranged on you bed to provide a cocoon for sleeping on your back with your head and feet slightly elevated.
- Make a list of last minute questions to ask your physician/surgeon before the surgery.
- Make your home “recovery-friendly.” Remove all tripping hazards and arrange furniture so you have a straight path to wherever you are going. Setup a temporary sleeping area if your house has a lot of stairs. Remove all tripping hazards.
- Prepare your bed (recovery area) with lots of pillows, absorbent pad underlay, books, magazines, writing materials, telephone, TV, remote control.
- Prepare your chair and bed with protective plastic sheeting and/or sheets and absorbent pads. Mattress Encasements – Protectabed.com
- Pre-position some wet naps, baby wipes, Kleenex, paper towels, hand moisturizer or make-up removal towelettes by your bed or chair.
- Pre-position your robe and slippers and socks.
- Remove any fingernail and toenail polish the day before surgery. It is not permitted and allows the surgical staff to better determine if you are getting enough oxygen during surgery.
- Set your nightstand up with your medications, water, a few packages of crackers, remote control, the phone, laptop and entertainment.
- Take out the trash.
- Turn down the sound and turn off the ringer. Have the answering machine set.
- Wash your hair the night before surgery.
Surgery Preparation: The Day of Surgery
- Shower the morning of surgery.
- Brushing teeth is permitted the morning of surgery, rinse and spit, do not swallow water.
- Call the morning of your surgery to verify appointment time (in case of surgeon delays)
- Bring a current list of medications that you take regularly.
- Bring guardianship papers if applicable.
- Bring hearing aids if applicable.
- Bring identification with picture to surgery.
- Bring reading glasses if needed.
- Bring your medical insurance cards.
- Bring Insurance information and insurance cards.
- Bring Your current medical condition, past medical history, and previous surgeries.
- Bring Living will and/or healthcare proxy not currently on file at the hospital.
- Bring required signed consent forms, if applicable.
- Bring the name of all the medications you are currently taking, including vitamins and mineral supplements.
- Bring names and phone numbers of all your doctors.
- Bring all of your medications with you to the hospital/surgical center.
- Do not bring jewelry or other valuables, including wedding bands or body piercing. Do not wear makeup, deodorant, hairpins, nail polish, body powder, or contact lenses.
- Any allergies you may have, plus past adverse reactions to drugs or to anesthesia.
- Wear loose clothing on the day of surgery.
- Have a responsible adult drive you to the surgery and drive you home after. |
Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
Soil: Moist yet well drained, fertile soil. Quercus palustris 'Isabel' grows well in most areas but will produce its most vivid autumn colour in lime free or acidic soils.
Rate of Growth: Slow.
Habit: Quercus palustris 'Isabel' is a very small tree with a densely branching, rounded crown.
Height: 3 m (10 ft) - 4 m (13 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft) |
Nestle Stouffers Beef Stew, 72 Ounce -- 4 per case. A hearty wholesome collection of tender cooked beef cubes, diced russet potatoes, sliced carrots, peas and onions in a well-seasoned thick beef gravy accented with a savory blend of spices. Tender moist beef chunks, colorful vegetables in a rich brown gravy. Over 20% beef. Made from scratch appearance and flavor with home-style character. has a full body and a savory spice blend that compliments components. Rich brown gravy has full body and savory spice blend. Contains no added MSG. Available in pouch or tray formats to meet your operational needs. Kosher
|Package Weight:||20 pounds|
|Package Size:||13.2 x 3.55 x 3.55 inches|
Have questions about this item, or would like to inquire about a custom or bulk order?
If you have any questions about this product by Stouffer's, contact us by completing and submitting the form below. If you are looking for a specif part number, please include it with your message.
By Aunt Kittys Foods
mpn: 310, ean: 0030300003104,
Castleberry Brunswick Stew - no. 10 can, 6 per case Great food, good value since 1926. An American original made with chicken and beef.... |
Tonight I time traveled back to 1923 so that I could purchase all-natural, boneless, skinless, hormone free, and never-been-frozen chicken breasts. Grant it, I got a little car sick in the DeLorean, and I had a brief run-in with Biff, but it was worth it. I only paid a whomping TWENTY-FOUR CENTS A POUND. Since I had to pre-order it, after all, I bought it in bulk, 80 pounds, Doc Brown says he’ll just drop off the chicken to me on October 24, right here in my city, in the present-day. So that’s service, eh?
Yeah, if you didn’t think I was crazy yet, I just might have convinced you finally, right? *grin* Well you see, that’s almost exactly what I did tonight. I’ve written about this company, Zaycon Foods previously, but our reader base increases by nearly 50% every single month, so I thought I’d better do it again—especially if YOU can manage to save a little coin on a kitchen staple like this too. Here’s the scoop.
I just purchased 80 pounds of all natural, totally fresh, never frozen, boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are completely hormone free with NO additives (including water) or artificial anything. In fact, when I pick up my order of the 80 pounds of chicken breasts, they will have most likely been off of birds that were clucking and pecking less than a week prior. But here’s the really, really great part. My total out-of-pocket costs for this 80 pounds of fabulous chicken breasts was less than 25 cents a pound! Yeah, that’s right. No MLM stuff. No coupons. No fuss. In fact, when I go to pick up my 80 pounds of all-natural boneless, skinless chicken breasts I will simply pull up to the nice man in the designated parking lot, show him my receipt, and before I can say “Howdy Doody” he’ll have loaded the chicken in my car and off I go. Heck, if that’s not Teenage Proof, I don’t know what is.
I then take the chicken home, stuff it in clean and sanitized Mason jars (and reserve a few breasts to cook right away—they are so big and plump and beautiful chicken breasts I just salivate when I think of all of the possibilities as I’m working with it.) Canning the chicken is easy, takes me only 90 minutes at the most, and you will NEVER taste more succulent, moist, perfect chicken as you will when you can this meat. It’s AWESOME…and that chicken soaking in the liquid for a couple years creates the most delicious chicken broth you’ve ever had! DEE-VINE!
Anyway, back to how I got this chicken SO Cheap—and how you can too with no strings attached: I paid so little for so much because it’s just a smart, straightforward business practice employed by Zaycon Foods. They sell various protein products all over the U.S. (and expanding more and more all the time) by the case. They provide PREMIUM protein products at great prices. They build up their customer base strictly by word of mouth through people who are fans of their product and prices—kind of like I’m doing now. If there’s a person out there who hopes to save beaucoup bucks on their proteins (my biggest personal angst in the Principle of Food Preparedness) then all they have to do is simply “enroll” as a customer at ZayconFoods.com. Basically, all that means is that they provide their name and e-mail address. In return, Zaycon Foods will e-mail you when a special deal is coming to your area (about once a month, sometimes less frequently than that depending on the time of year); you decide if the special fits your needs; if it does, you click and buy; if it doesn’t you pass. Nothing else. Nothing fancy. It doesn’t cost anything to enroll. There’s no obligation to purchase. It’s just very straight forward. But here’s a really cool facet of it that I love, love, love! Instead of footing the bill for multi-million dollars of advertising and marketing, Zaycon Foods does this awesome thing of giving you a $1 credit every time someone YOU REFER makes a purchase. Yes, that’s EVERY time they make a purchase. So, let’s say your reading this and you want a killer deal on ALL NATURAL boneless, skinless chicken breasts at only $1.69 a pound (that’s significantly less than I see elsewhere and I’m a total coupon freak! Not to mention the fact that you’re not going to get hormone-free chicken at a price less than $5 a pound nowadays and without water injected in it like Costco and your regular grocery stores do.) So you simply click on this link, which is attached to my unique little referral number/name. You enroll. You purchase. And Poof! I’ll see a nice little “Thank You from Zaycon Foods” e-mail in my box when a person first enrolls—though that’s just about all it says—I have no idea who the person is or what they bought, etc.—AND I see a little notice in my “Referral Account” of another dollar to spend on any Zaycon deal that I’m interested in sometime in the future. The referral $1 happens EVERY TIME my referred folks make a purchase. The referral dollars don’t expire—in fact, I hadn’t made a purchase in about 3 months because I didn’t need what they were offering the last little bit. And since the deals are already so great, you get to stretch these nice little referral dollars that much further.
To date, this is my best out-of-pocket cost yet. My very first Zaycon Foods purchase was for their famous chicken breasts priced at $1.59 a pound and I ended up paying about .59 cent’s a pound. I also purchased 60 pounds of bacon a couple months later and paid less than 55 cents a pound for that! (and yes, you can can your own bacon too, folks! I’ve got all the directions right here.)
On their present deal the price is $1.69 a pound. The boxes are sold in 40 pound increments. I’ve got $116 in credit which will fully pay for 68 pounds. So I only have to come up with $19.20 for the remainder which brings my total out of pocket for 80 POUNDS of all-natural, hormone free, plump, fresh boneless, skinless breasts to a mere .24 cents a pound! Gee, I helped people know how to save money on meat. How hard can that be, eh? I kind of get excited when they are doing chicken because everyone I know loves their chicken which means that they are going to purchase some which means more referral dollars. In fact, if I was smart, I’d wait until the end of the sale neared and then made my purchase so that I could use all of the Referral dollars, but I don’t want to risk NOT getting my chicken. They have a limited supply for each area. So instead, I buy as soon as I know there’s a deal I want.
Here’s a little more detail on how their referral program works. When you enroll, you will select a "referral name", I chose "PrepPro" for referral purposes, so that people can put THAT in as their referral source AND they will also give you a url link that you can post (mine is this: http://www.zayconfoods.com/refer/zf52652 ) so that you can simply give that active URL to your friends and have them just click on it and not worry about remembering a referral name. So then you can just send an e-mail out to your friends and such, or send out a periodic Tweet on Twitter, or post something on Pinterest or Facebook—whatever--that will drum up interest for any sane person who wants to save money on quality proteins. Ta da! That's it. It's simple because all you’re doing is just letting your friends know that there’s this AWESOME solution for saving a LOT of money on great quality proteins. The nice thing is that every time Zaycon comes up with another product to purchase it’s a perfect excuse to do the Happy Dance and share a little brag message just like this one! Who doesn’t want to save money on chicken, beef, pork or fish nowadays?—well, besides vegetarians?
My dollars have been building up from the purchases made by people that I’ve referred all over the U.S.; and it grows fast thanks to modern social media AND because Zaycon is in SO many cities all over the U.S. So find out if they are near you too so that you can at least be notified of deals that are coming your way. No Zaycon deliveries in your area yet? Don’t give up. Still enroll for the notifications, because as soon as there are 100 people in your area that have enrolled, Zaycon will open your area too! If you're in a particular hurry then I wholeheartedly recommend that you call Zaycon and chat with one of their customer service folks and find out what you can do to get Zaycon to come to your area. Regardless, enrolling for their e-mail notifications is one of the more worthwhile times that you give someone else your e-mail address. So it’s still WELL worthwhile to tell your friends, enemies, frenemies and family members about this great way to save money on great products. What more can I say? Well, I’ve got some Chicken Parmesan, Lemon Chicken, as well as Chicken and Dumpling recipes to finesse.
© 2013 Of COURSE this post is Copyright Protected by Preparedness Pro. All Rights Reserved. NO portion of this article may be reposted, printed, copied, disbursed, etc. without first receiving written permission by the author. This content may be printed for personal use only. (Then again, laws are only as good as the people who keep them.) Preparedness Pro will pursue all violations of these rights just as vigorously as she does any of her other freedoms, liberties, and protections. |
Yellow And Red Living Room Ideas Cabinet Hardware Room
This image gallery named as Yellow And Red Living Room Ideas Cabinet Hardware Room might be ideal solution for your decoration. As the author has insert this image into Red And Yellow Living Room post section, would ease you to find the perfect match of you decor desire.
The last idea is to have an open cupboard without any storage. It seems like unsuccessful cabinet. In fact, it is possible to make it work any kind of function. You can have the cabinets to place laundry baskets, even a few smaller baskets to take soaps and shampoo. It is possible to also have some hooks in this little yellow and red living room ideas cabinet hardware room cabinet ideas to hang moist towel or even stuffs without needing too much space. |
Fall-blooming anemones will form a handsome 12" tall ground cover in light to partial shade in moist, humus-rich soil, and will tolerate full morning sun with sufficient moisture. They do not like wet feet. Mulch for the first winter. A hard frost will darken the foliage, which can either be removed or left for protection. Anemones are heirloom plants with a natural or wild-looking appearance that compliments shrubs such as rhododendrons & hydrangeas. Monkshood, baneberry, snakeroot, and hardy geraniums are excellent companions. Hostas, ferns, and ornamental grasses combine well with anemone foliage in summer.
Toad lilly, an easy-care perennial, offers intricate, orchid-like flowers from late summer to mid-fall. It grows in shade and moist, well-drained soil to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Plants grow from underground rhizomes that form a colony over time. It is best to bury new shoots about 5 to 6" below the soil to help keep them cool and moist in summer and protect them over the winter. Divide in spring. The blooms are best appreciated close up, so plant them along a path or make sure there is a diversion to lead you to them. Combine them with hostas, ferns, Actaea, and Aconitum.
False aster produces showy panicles of lavender flower heads in abundance from late summer into the fall for about 1 month. Grow in partial or full sun, wet to moist conditions, and a fertile loamy soil. The lovely light blue color goes well with other plants blooming at this time, including bright-colored mums.
The sedums are spectacular in fall, whether taller blooming or lower-growing foliage plants.
Asters look great with ornamental grasses and the changing colors of fall trees. They perform best in rich, evenly moist soil in full sun, but will also bloom well in partial shade. If pinched back in mid-July, the plants will be heavier blooming and probably will not need staking. This one will cover itself with hundreds of daisy-like deep blue flowers if you remove spent flowering stalks. The healthy dark green foliage has a compact mounding habit and is very resistant to mildew, but plenty of space to grow helps prevent mildew. Side dress aster plants each fall with a light dressing of compost or similar organic fertilizer. |
Three Steps To Remove Mould.
How to treat mould! Eradicate mould from your home or property portfolio.
Step one: TREAT THE MOULD
Before treating any mould issues a word of caution; mould can cause health problems and allergic reactions. Protective gear should always be used to avoid any direct contact with mould spores. Make sure the room is well ventilated, open a window or use a fan. Protective eye wear, face mask and gloves should be worn at all times. If in any doubt seek professional help.
- Follow the manufacturers instructions and apply a mould removal chemical like RLT Bactdet 05 which is used to kill and clean mould. Do not use bleach or other cleaning products, this does not kill the mould spore. The most effective treatment products contain RLT Halophen, which penetrates into the substrate to kill the roots and form a fungicidal barrier. Our RLT Mould Treatment packs are used for treating medium to severe mould contamination and include all chemicals required along with protective gear.
- Once the treatment has been applied use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the blackened area.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Step two: APPLY A MOULD RESISTENT PAINT
Mould resistant paints contain a fungicidal additive to help prevent future mould growth. You can buy a separate additive to put into your emulsion or alternatively use a pre-mixed version. Our RLT Mould Treatment Pack contains an fungicidal additive that can be incorporated into your paint, or wallpaper paste, ready for decorating. Just paint or paper the wall as you would normally.
Where Should I Use Anti-Mould Paint?
Mould resistant paint should be applied in areas where there are high levels of moisture and condensation. Typical areas include kitchens and bathrooms where large amounts of steam are produced through cooking and bathing. It is benefical to apply the paint to any room that has low ventilation. Poor air circulation increases the risk of condensation forming on surfaces which can contribute to the development of mould.
Anti-mould paint should only be applied to dry, mould free areas. Make sure you have properly treated and removed all existing mould before you start using mould resistant paint. Please note that while anti-mould paint is an excellent preventative measure you should also look at reducing the causes of condensation as well, otherwise you may see some reoccurence of mould growth.
Step 3: VENTILATE & REDUCE MOISTURE
Ventilation is needed to let your home expell moisture. Make sure all air bricks are kept clear. Leave windows open a little when you are drying clothes, cooking or bathing. In areas like the kitchen and bathroom extractor fans should be used. Check these are functioning effectively. A home can be well ventilated without loosing much heat from your property.
When using the kitchen or bathroom keep doors shut to stop steam moving into other rooms which may be colder and therefore will produce condensation. A good tip is to use draft excluders to reduce moisture going into other areas of the house. You want the moist air to escape through open windows, ventilation bricks and extractors. Its is also important to leave space between furnishings and walls to allow air to move freely. If you have new PVC windows they should have trickle ventilators which are ideal for helping remove moisture when blinds and curtains are shut at night. Keep your curtains open when possible to improve air circulation. |
|Aftercare for Labret, Lip, Monroe, Medusa, Snakebites
|Suggested Cleaning Products
For the outside of the piercing-
Medicated liquid antimicrobial/germicidal soap, such as Provon is strongly suggested,
available at Mystical Body. Antibacterial soaps that are color and fragrant free may
work, but are not as effective, and considered inferior. Scented and colored soaps
should be avoided. Never use alcohol or peroxide to clean piercings.
An alternative to cleaning solutions can be Non-iodized sea salt soaks (1/4 teaspoon
dissolved in 8 ounces of warm distilled water). The sea salt MUST be measured if
this alternative is to be used.
For the inside of the piercing-
Alcohol-free antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwash, such as Tech 2000 or Biotene
is strongly suggested. Mouthwashes containing alcohol should be avoided, they are
An alternative to mouthwash can be Non-iodized sea salt soaks as listed above.
For the outside of the piercing-
1) Wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and warm water before touching
your piercing. This is very important to avoid most infections.
2) Soak piercing with warm water to soften any dried and crusty matter around
piercing and jewelry. Never pick off crusty matter with fingernails.
3) Apply small amount of cleaning solution to piercing and jewelry, gently rotating the
jewelry back and forth through the piercing a few times to work the solution into the
4) Allow solution to remain in contact with the piercing for at least 30 seconds,
preferably one minute.
5) Rinse the piercing thoroughly under warm running water, gently rotating the jewelry
back and forth again to rinse the solution out the inside of the piercing.
6) Gently pat dry with a disposable paper product.
7) Check threaded jewelry to be certain ends are tight. Threaded ends tighten in a
8) Do not touch until next cleaning time.
9) Clean piercing twice daily during entire initial healing time.
10) Any piercing question or concern, contact Mystical Body immediately.
For the inside of the piercing-
Rinse mouth for 30-60 seconds with mouthwash after meals during entire initial
healing time. Do not use more than 4 to 5 times daily. Non-iodized sea salt soaks can
be used in place of the mouthwash, or in conjunction with it. A cool water rinse can be
used if there is no mouthwash available at the time, however, this only helps keep
food particles away from the piercing, and a mouthwash rinse should follow as soon
Use a new soft-bristled toothbrush to help reduce the bacteria that is introduced into
your mouth. Very gently brush the part of the jewelry inside your mouth to minimize
plaque build up.
Swelling is perfectly normal. To help minimize swelling, gently suck on clean ice
whenever possible, especially within the first 48 hours of getting pierced. Slight
bleeding, bruising, discoloration, and tenderness are also normal. Typically these
symptoms will subside within the first 1-2 weeks, and may be further minimized if you
reduce your intake of aspirin, alcohol, and caffeine. A whitish-yellowish fluid may
secrete from your piercing, which crusts on the outside of the jewelry and
surrounding tissue, this is normal. This fluid indicates a healing piercing. This fluid
also secretes from the inside surface of the piercing, however it looks a little different,
since it stays moist inside the mouth. This is also perfectly normal, and indicates a
healing piercing. Plaque may form on the inside of the jewelry, just brush the jewelry
gently with your new soft-bristled toothbrush.
DO NOT sleep on piercing.
DO NOT use Q-tips on piercing.
DO NOT remove jewelry at any time during the healing process.
DO NOT use alcohol, peroxide, or Betadine to clean the outside of your piercing, they
are overly strong and extremely drying to the tissue, which slows the healing process.
DO NOT apply additional ointments to the piercing, such as Neosporin, Bacitracin,
triple antibiotics, etc., because they prevent oxygen from reaching your piercing and
the sticky residue can collect dirt and germs.
DO NOT touch your fresh piercing with unwashed hands.
DO NOT engage in oral sex, or french kissing during the initial healing.
DO NOT expose your fresh piercing to hair spray, body spray, perfume, lotions,
cosmetics, oils, etc.
DO NOT chew gum, fingernails,pencils, sunglasses, etc. during healing.
DO NOT expose your fresh piercing to bodies of water, such as a pool, jacuzzi, lake,
river, ocean, etc. during healing.
DO NOT intake tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, chew, etc. during
healing. Smoking of all kinds increases risks of complications and can lengthen
DO NOT intake alcoholic beverages of any kind for the first 2 weeks.
DO NOT intake beverages or foods that are hot in temperature, spicy, salty, or acidic
for the first 2 weeks.
DO NOT take large bits while eating. Eat slowly to avoid biting the jewelry.
DO NOT play with your jewelry during healing time. Even after healing, excessive
play with oral jewelry can permanently damage teeth, gums, and oral
structures. Please be gentle, metal is harder than the body.
Gently sucking on clean ice whenever possible, especially during the first 48 hours,
helps keep swelling to a minimum.
An anti-inflammatory product, such as Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.), can help reduce
possible swelling and discomfort.
Sleeping with your head elevated above your heart, can minimize swelling even more.
Once the swelling subsides, switching to a shorter post on bar-style jewelry can help
reduce irritation to your teeth and gums, and also reduce the risk of biting the jewelry
To aid your body against infection and heal more rapidly, get plenty of rest, reduce
your stress level, and maintain a nutritious diet. Taking a multi-vitamin mineral
supplement that contains zinc and vitamin C may boost your body's healing abilities.
Remember, the healthier you are, the faster your piercing will heal..
Make sure your bedding is clean, and changed frequently.
Leave your jewelry in at all times throughout the healing time. Even after it heals, it is
wise to leave it in to allow the piercing to "toughen up", because even well-healed
piercings can shrink or close quite quickly.
If your jewelry must come out for a short period of time, we suggest using a piercing
retainer, available at Mystical Body.
Each body is unique, and healing times can vary greatly, yet with care and patience,
your new piercing can give you a lifetime of pleasure.
Mystical Body is dedicated to professional piercing, so if you have a question or
concern, feel free to ask.
12g Tongue Retainer
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Olive Oil Cake with Saffron Frosting
Saffron Frosting with Rose Petals and Pistachio
When you think of saffron, you probably think of classic savory dishes such as paella and risotto. For this Valentines Day we chose to feature saffron as it has always been—a spice that is said to induce feelings of love and romance. For us who love a bit of “savory” in her “sweet”, I couldn’t help but wonder what saffron would taste like in a dessert I did a little research, and it turns out that saffron is used in many Middle Eastern desserts – everything from rice puddings to pies, and even ice cream. I decided to give it an American “spin” and incorporate it into a frosted layer cake (what’s more American than that?).
But why saffron frosting?
I initially planned to infuse the cake batter with saffron but I really wanted to highlight the pale golden hue that saffron imparts. So I went with a saffron cream cheese frosting instead and I paired it with an olive oil cake to keep with the savory-sweet flavor profile.
If you’ve never baked with olive oil, you’re in for a treat - it results in an incredibly moist, less cloyingly-sweet cake, with the subtle flavor of the oil throughout. I knew it would complement the saffron frosting perfectly. To finish it off I garnished the top with chopped pistachios and edible rose petals. The greens and pinks looked lovely with that pale yellow frosting, and added layers of flavors that were anything but “the usual”.
Olive Oil Layer Cake with Saffron Frosting
For the Frosting:
Heaping 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
8 ounces cream cheese
Pinch of salt
2 cups chilled heavy cream
For the Olive Oil Cake:
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2/3 cup olive oil
1 3/4 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup edible rosebuds and petals
Make the frosting:
Place the saffron, sugar, cream cheese and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whisk on medium speed until smooth, scraping down the bowl once or twice if needed. Reduce the speed to low and very slowly pour in the heavy cream. Continue whisking on low until incorporated, then raise the speed to medium-high and whisk until fluffy. Refrigerate till ready to use.
Clean out the bowl and whisk attachment.
Make the cake:
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees; grease and flour two 8” round baking pans.
Whisk the buttermilk and sugar on low speed until smooth. Add the eggs and olive oil and whisk again. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and whisk again. Transfer batter evenly between your prepared pans and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick tests clean. Cool cakes in pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then turn out onto the rack to cool completely.
Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving tray or plate. If you like, use a large chef knife to level off the domed top. Scoop a generous amount of frosting on top and use an angled spatula to spread evenly. Place the second cake on top and repeat with more frosting. Frost the sides of the cake last, covering completely or scraping the edges with your spatula for a “naked” effect. Garnish with the pistachios and roses; keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
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By Karen Hendricks
Happy 4th of July!
Looking for an alternative to the traditional burgers and dogs for your summer cookouts? Four words for you: SWEET. TEA. BRINED. CHICKEN.
Ok, I am guilty of pinning a gazillion recipes on Pinterest, but this is one of a handful that I have actually tried. And my family loved this chicken so much that we’ve made it numerous times. Even though I discovered it on Pinterest, it’s originally from Southern Living.
If you like sweet tea, trust me, you’ll LOVE this chicken. The chicken stays very moist and retains a lemony, tea flavor with the zing of rosemary.
Sweet Tea Brined Chicken:
- 2 family sized tea bags (or 8 regular sized tea bags)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- 1 Tablespoon crushed black pepper
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 3-4 pounds chicken pieces
Boil 4 cups of water, add tea bags, and steep for 10 minutes.
- Stir in sugar and salt until completely dissolved. Add onion, lemon, garlic, and rosemary. Add ice and cool completely. Put the chicken into plastic bags or covered mixing bowls and pour the brine overtop. Let the chicken sit in the brine for 24 hours. (The recipe does not specify, but I refrigerated the chicken at this point.)
- Take the chicken out of the brine, and throw the brine away. Dry the chicken off with paper towels. Heat the grill to medium, but only on one side. Put the chicken skin side down, on the side that is not lit. Weird, but it works. Cover the grill and cook for 20 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for 40 to 50 minutes or until cooked through.
Enjoy! And if you give the recipe a try, jot a note below to let us know.
I have added this recipe to the Off the Merry-Go-Round Pinterest page. In need of more summertime inspiration? Give us a follow, and find many more summer recipes, ideas for kids’ summer activities, and much more–even a board we call “Giggles.”
Wishing you many delicious summertime moments… 🙂 |
“Experience is not worth the getting. It’s not a thing that happens pleasantly to a passive you–it’s a wall that an active you runs up against.” ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
“In order to be open to creativity, one must have the capacity for constructive use of solitude. One must overcome the fear of being alone.” ~ Rollo May
“That country where it is always turning late in the year. That country where the hills are fog and the rivers are mist; where noons go quickly, dusks and twilights linger, and midnights stay. That country composed in the main of cellars, sub-cellars, coal-bins, closets, attics, and pantries faced away from the sun. That country whose people are autumn people, thinking only autumn thoughts. Whose people passing at night on the empty walks sound like rain.” ~ Ray Bradbury
Just checking in. Seriously tired and pretty much “under the weather”. Is that idiomatic? Just askin, I honestly don’t know. I’ll hafta look it up later. Sigh. Regardless, the morning is moist and soft and beautiful. Cat fed, still needs her daily insulin injection. I’ll get to that, then get to fetching feed and water to the chickens and the warrior turkey. After that? Freedom. Rest. Yeh, freedom.
Peace out, y’all. Goof gloriously. |
HYDRATION AND BALANCE
Our bodies are mostly made of water, about 55% for an adult female and about 60% for an adult male. Yet, it is reported that about two thirds of us aren’t drinking enough water to keep our bodies functioning properly and it is throwing us off balance.
Body parts are composed of the following percentages of water:
*Blood 92 %
As the primary building block for all cells, water is vital to the health of every system in our bodies. It regulates body temperature and manages heartbeat, blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Water aids digestion and transport nutrients and waste materials. It keeps eyes and mouths moist and lubricates our joints.
At just 2-3% dehydration, you may experience disturbing symptoms such as fatigue, lethargy, irritability and fuzzy thinking. Feeling thirsty you may feel dry mouth and skin as well as some dizziness. Headaches and muscle cramps may also occur at this level of dehydration. If symptoms deteriorate even further, you may need medical attention.
Drinking small amounts of fluid at a time, not a lot of fluid at one time, is usually enough for mild dehydration. Make sure you are continually drinking water during outdoor activity. Avoid coffee and caffeine drinks when exercising outside as they can dehydrate you faster. Severe dehydration may require IV fluids or even a hospital stay.
The old rule of thumb was to drink eight 8oz glasses of water a day but it is outdated and there is not a one size fits all for daily water intake. Factors that influence this are weight, activity level, weather, diet and overall health. It is recommended that you drink enough water so that you are rarely thirsty and your urine stays colorless or light yellow. If you are thirsty a lot and your urine is dark yellow, you really need to do something about it. Other good sources of fluid are high water content fruits and vegetables and soups.
Children are more likely to become dehydrated as they weigh less and their bodies process water more quickly. One of the leading reasons for the elderly to be admitted to the emergency room is dehydration. Even something this simple can be dangerous to an older person so keep a watch out for those older folks that you love.
Ever notice a woman of a certain age that looks at least a decade younger than she should because of her fabulous skin? Chances are that she not only has good genetics, chosen good skin care and sunscreen, but she probably drinks a lot of wate. Another bonus to staying hydrated!
Hydration improves our everyday health and is a simple way to keep us in better balance.
Here’s to living well and happy! |
The idea of a gathering place is one that has long been associated with a tavern. The Liberty Tavern provides that sense of comfort and belonging by its wood and earth tone décor, inviting bar and two fireplaces, as well as its food focused menu. Liberty Tavern offers a seasonal-inspired menu prepared with fresh, often locally sourced ingredients. The casual, comfortable atmosphere of the Liberty Tavern was modeled after the great American grills of the 1920"s and offers a celebration of comfort food with a wide variety of All-American favorites. This fresh restaurant & bar is located in the Hilton Rosemont Chicago O'Hare. Meet us at LibertyTavernRosemont.com
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Sun 2:00PM - 2:00PM 2:15PM - 10:00PM
Mon - Fri 2:00PM - 3:45PM 4:00PM - 10:00PM
Sat 2:00PM - 2:00PM 2:15PM - 10:00PM
Excellent American fare with outstanding service.
The venue was nice. It’s a hotel venue so most people are hotel guests. The staff were very nice and the food was good. Would go back when in the area
Beautiful little spot. Food was very good, but very small. I ordered the grilled octopus as an appetizer and I received one tentacle (about the size of my finger) on bread with some greens. I have eaten in other restaurants in the area and received more food for the same price or less. The wait staff and ambiance were very nice.
Appreciate the service and round table for this large group
Emma the host was very accommodating
The drinks were good and my teenage daughter enjoyed her alcohol-free pomegranate mojito. We ordered the roasted Brussels sprouts for an appetizer and the chicken pot pie and fish tacos for entrees. The tacos were cold and the fish was dry. The server sent them back to the kitchen and they made the again. The second time around they came out perfectly - they were hot and the fish was moist. The manager gave us 15% off our bill which was very nice. Our server was nice too!
The food was delicious (we went for dinner) and our waiter Ken was fabulous! He was so attentive and personable, the ultimate professional. He made our dining experience a 6 star! We would definitely go back again. Thank you Liberty Tavern.
Surprisingly good! Didn't expect too much from hotel restaurant near O'Hare but the food was delicious and the service was warm and attentive.
Hilton really needs to remodel the restaurant
not for family where people need to hear! Not good for older folks at all!
We ordered the Price Fix menu. It was a good value for the money, but I don't think the regular menu would have been. Our waiter made it known if he disapproved of your menu choice. Kind of beyond recommendations. Kind of weird. Took a while to get drinks. Couldn't get my water refilled even after asking. The place was empty.
Wait staff was very pushy, which made my partner and I very uncomfortable. It’s also very hard to find a parking to get in.
Great service. Wonderful ambiance. The clam chowder soup was delicious. The salmon with pasta was outstanding. Will visit again and try other dishes.
We came for dinner 2 weeks in a row before concerts at Allstate Arena. First time we sat by the lobby fireplace, 2nd time by the dining room fire place. Both are nice, and the dining room was empty as it was 5:00pm on a Friday. Service was great both times! We had yummy burgers and a drink, and recommend! They get you through quickly but do not rush you. They validate parking. Once we figured out it was located "in" the Hilton, it was easy in and out. We recommend!
We ordered the salads which were not good. Mainly lettuce without many ingredients and chicken was dry. We would not return.
Pre concert dinner . . . Ken, our waiter was very amiable and prompt . . . Calamari for table was very tasty . . . Everyone enjoyed their entrees . . . Will return when in the area
In a hotel where the restaurant caters more to guests of the hotel. Food was very good. Not much for ambiance
Good food. I really wish someone told us that the restaurant comps you're parking garage fee.i learned this after we left
We came on a Saturday night, pretty early in the evening, and there were plenty of open tables. This is a hotel restaurant, which probably sees most of its business during the week with business travelers staying at the hotel. Despite this, we had a really nice dinner! We were seated by the fireplace (excellent location because it was a cold evening), the food was truly delicious, and the service was attentive. Our server had a slightly overly-forward and odd humor, but, he seemed concerned about us having a nice dinner and check in on us frequently. We definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone staying at the Rosemont Hilton or in the area.
Wonderful waiters ! They were very attentive and not overbearing. We ordered the sage chicken and the
hamburger. Both were tasty. We also ordered a salad and lobster bisque soup. The soup was fair and the salad was good.
Andrea the server was awesome! He has great recommendations, was engaging but not in your face and had a professional and cheerful attitude showing he takes pride in his work! Hostess was also super nice!
I thought the Pot Pie tasted like the only I used to get in the college cafeteria, my friend (not even looking at the menu) ordered a Turkey Burger (even asked if they were made by hand) and was brought a Turkey panini. When asked why a panini and not a burger the waiter said "We don't have turkey burgers." We responded "Why didn't you tell us that when we ordered?" I thought you meant the panini. he didn't, he ate it, no attempt to make things right by staff. It was also really hard to get into the parking lot, although they did validate our ticket. All in all a weird lunch from to pretty easy gong guys. Won't go back.
This place is a hidden treasure. After I realized it was in a hotel, I was skeptical but it turned out wonderful. We were seated right next to the fire place and had a great server, Kenneth. All 4 of our meals were great. Food was a little pricey but thats to be expected in Rosemont. Great atmosphere. Would recommend.
This was the worst. We were seated and given menus. And that was the last we saw of anyone. We left after 20 minutes.
Two of us ordered the salmon. Neither of us wanted the quinoa that comes with it, but we were required to pay a $2.00 upcharge to substitute potatoes for it. The salmon was quite good, but the portion size was noticeably small for the price.
One of our diners had beef tips and she was very pleased.
We ordered the house Malbec, but were told they were out with no substitute offered, so we ordered the better, more expensive Malbec, which aside from the slight increase in price, didn't disappoint.
Our service was very, very good.
If you go, ask for Kenny.
Dined there last minute on a Friday night. We were the only patrons, which caused me to question my choice. Service was friendly and excellent. I had salmon and another in my party had skirt steak. My spouse had Swordfish. We shared a Brussel Sprout appetizer. I thought my salmon was very good, and the skirt steak received nice reviews. My spouse did not enjoy his swordfish that much. Chocolate mousse was rich.
The price of 24.95 for the breakfast buffet was ridiculous.
Service was fair to poor. Chichen was over cooked and turnips etc were just bland. Even the "Breakfast" was uninteresting and all the dishes were cold. It's just a really bad restaurant for a Hilton Hotel. Morton's is a block away, Gibson's is a block away and there is a full fledged Starbucks in the hotel with nice people and everything you could want.
Waste of time and Money.
Staff was friendly. Food was Yummy! Salmon, lobster bisque and Risotto are highly recommended!
Our waiter was really nice. The food was very good. But all entrees were a la carts . No sides to go with anything. A bit pricey.
I had wonderful fish tacos, and my wife had a great burger. The only problem is that I came in search for the Portobello Mushroom Burger on the on-line menu, only to be told - by a very apologetic waiter - that the on line menu had not been updated in four years. Get it updated! Otherwise a very fine meal, and the service was excellent.
This was my/our first dining experience at Liberty Tavern. My aunt and uncle flew in from Boston and wanted to meet up for a casual dinner so I searched for places nearby their hotel on Open Table and this was the location they chose based on it supposedly being a burger/American cuisine location.
For our party of four, the bill was $95 for (1) Coke, (2) iced teas, (1) pub burger, (1) pot pie and (2) liberty burgers. That being said, here is my review for those looking to come here...
1. Our server, Ken/Keith (?), was delightful! Very friendly, helpful and attentive.
2. Validated hotel parking
1. Parking up front was very limited based on the fact it it a hotel restaurant. However, if you used the hotel lot, they did validate the $29 rate.
2. The atmosphere by the fireplace was nice, but the kitchen was close so you could hear water running and dishes being cleaned.
3. The furniture certainly had the hotel look/feel.
4. For being a burger/American/tavern, their burger selection was limited to either a plain (Pub) burger for $16 or the Liberty burger for over $17. They were good, but very overpriced for an 8 oz burger.
While it was not necessarily a bad experience, I do not foresee myself revisiting again. As the saying goes, "you never know until you try." Hope this helps!
Excellent attention to detail. I have dietary restrictions and they honors all of them
Our server was very attentive and accommodating. The food was great and we had a number of different items, all of which our group of 6 enjoyed. Would definitely go back.
Unbelievable service. We had a great experience
They validate parking for the Hilton lot
Good food and good service
We ordered the grilled halibut w zucchini noodles and the skirt steak w sweet potato puree. I was very impressed w the apple cinnamon sangria. Good stuff!!!
Food was just fair. Drinks were good but pricey. I was appalled when folks from the pool came in without coverups and sat at the bar, very loud, disrespectful to folks eating. |
These are my dear husband's creation. They are incredibly good and worth making regardless of your dietary needs. The addition of canned tuna brings the cost of the dish down considerably. Of course, if you are serving guests and cost is not a concern, don't make the substitution and use 4 cans of salmon.
"Can't Be!" Gluten Free Salmon Patties
2 cans tuna drained
2 small cans deboned salmon drained
3/4 cup mayo
1/2 cup instant mashed potatoes
1 cup Old Fashioned Oatmeal
1 small chopped onion
4 celery sticks chopped
2 Tbs butter (or oil)
1 Tbs lemon juice
1 tsp dill
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
salt and pepper to taste
Sautee the onions and celery in butter (use olive oil if milk allergies are a concern) over medium heat until translucent. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until moist and evenly distributed. Make balls about 3 inches in diameter and press flat onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Serves 8 to 10.
Suggestions: Serve with a slice of pepper jack cheese* melted on top, drizzled with a zingy cocktail sauce--I make mine with a dash of horseradish in ketchup. Rice pilaf is a great side dish. Be sure to double check the ingredients for allergens. A side of wilted greens and dried cranberries topped with a sweet vinagrette would round it out nicely.
*Use a goat milk cheese if dairy allergies are present or skip the cheese entirely. |
One of the most attractive and sultry muffins I’ve ever created and photographed. Yes, I used extra chocolate chips for aesthetic purposes but these lovelies have a super poppin top all on their own. Like a big booty. Plus they’re super moist and sweet as can be, thanks mostly to the yummy bananas.
One can never have enough muffin recipes on hand. Especially with those ripened bananas sitting on your counter begging to be made into something… pancakes, loaves, cookies, etc.
- 1.5 cups all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed*
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray or put muffin liners in your muffin pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, mashed bananas, butter and vanilla. Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and blend until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips (reserving some for the tops). Divide batter into the muffin pan and top with chips.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Yields 15 muffins.
*Mashed banana should yield 1 1/3 cups. You can substitute in some unsweetened applesauce for the mashed banana if you need to supplement. |
The latest addition to my cookbook library is Honey & Co’s The Baking Book, by Sarit Packer and Itomar Srulovich. It has the same UK publisher as my friend Rachel’s Five Quarters (which boasts a couple of my recipes), so I went along to the launch event a few weeks ago, bought a copy, got it signed and have been trying out the recipes since.
I love enriched doughs, so I was drawn to the recipe for kubaneh. Sarit’s family has Egyptian and Yemeni connections, and this bread is from the latter culture, specifically it’s a Yemenite-Jewish Sabbath breakfast bread. Reading more about it now, it’s traditionally baked overnight in a sealed tin. While Sarit’s version bakes for a fairly long time, it’s not overnight.
Some versions include whole eggs, and can be eaten as more savoury affair, with tomatoes or a tomato dip, or skhug, Yemeni hot sauce*. This one is sweeter. It’s rich in butter (or smen/semneh fermented sheep or goat milk butter; or margarine, depending on your dietary restrictions and inclinations and shopping options) and drizzled with honey, which caramelises together slightly.
Why haven’t I heard of this before?! Just my kind of thing.
I’ve tweaked the process slightly and given the ingredients in a more consistent format, so as to also include bakers’ percentages (below).
It’s a fairly moist dough – the original recipe says 300-350ml water, but I split the difference at 325ml: 325g. That works out at about 65% hydration, so quite wet and sticky. Check out my post on handling sticky doughs.
For this baking vessel, they use a “traditional lidded aluminium pot” but say you can also use a 20cm fixed bottom round cake tin, with a “lid” made of foil.
I used fresh yeast. You could use 10g active dry/granular yeast instead. If you only have instant/powdered yeast, you don’t need to mix it with liquid first – just combine it with the flour.
60g light soft brown sugar
15g fresh yeast
325g water, at about body temperature
250g strong white bread flour
250g plain (all-purpose) white flour
6g fine salt
Unsalted butter, softened (or margarine or smen, if you can get it. Very unlikely here in England!)
Here is it in bakers’ percentages (rounded):
|Light soft brown sugar||60g||12%|
|Strong white flour||250g||50%|
|Plain white flour||250g||50%|
1. Mix together the water, sugar and yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast.
2. Weigh out the flours into a large bowl and add the salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour and bring together a dough. I don’t have a mixer, so my instructions are for doing it by hand. If you do, just mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Turn out the shaggy mixture onto a lightly oiled work surface and knead. I used the Dan Lepard technique of not kneading too much, then returning the dough to the bowl, cleaned and oiled, leaving for 10 minutes, then kneading briefly again. Repeat this twice more, then return to the cleaned, lightly oiled bowl.
5. Cover with plastic or a clean, damp tea towel and leave to prove for a couple of hours, or until doubled in size. The time will depend on the ambient temperature. It’s about 20C in my kitchen on a mild English summer’s day, and it took about two and a half hours.
8. Oil a tray, then divide the dough up into eight pieces and place them on the tray. The dough weighs 900g, so eight pieces at around 112g.
9. Oil your hands a bit then take each piece, stretch it slightly, and put a blob of butter in the middle. I used pieces at about 10g, half a walnut size.
10. Smear the butter a bit then wrap the dough around it to form rough balls.
11. Put the balls in the prepared tin, one in the middle, the rest equally spaced around it.
12. Put some more flecks of butter on top, drizzle with honey then cover and prove again until the dough “almost reaches the top” – too high and it’ll “overflow when baked.” I drizzled a bit more honey and added a bit more butter before baking.
13. Preheat the oven to 220C.
14. Put the tin, with its lid, in the oven and bake for half an hour.
15. Reduce the heat to 200C and continue baking for another half an hour.
16. Reduce the heat again to 180C and continue baking for another half an hour.
17. Turn the oven off and leave in the oven “for at least an hour”.
18. It’s best served warm, so if you’re an insomniac and have been doing this all night, or proved it overnight in the fridge and baked it early, enjoy it thus.
It’s surprisingly soft and chewy, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get nice caramelised bits. I won’t be doing it every week, but it’s a great addition to my enriched breads & breakfast bakes armoury. It’s also reminiscent of English lardy cakes, particularly the fruit-free versions from my part of the country, Hampshire and Sussex. Though obviously the fats used are a bit different for that gentile bake.
It’s also got me thinking about that most indulgent of fatty-sugary-doughy caramelised concoctions, the Breton kouign amann, which is more a pastry than a bread. Still, I might have to revisit that soon.
* Aka zhug, zehug; the Honey & Co The Baking Book also has a recipe for this, to accompany their lahooh, Yemeni pancakes. |
Last night, TasteBud A and I met a couple friends and crossed the river into the South Hills for a change of pace. The Whiskey Hollow Grill had been getting great reviews on Urbanspoon so we decided it would be our next adventure.
I ordered the Salmon Fingers for an appetizer and the Chicken Chimichanga for my entree. The server recommended a margarita as her specialty so I went with that as well. In the words of Rachel Ray “Yum-o!”
Salmon Fingers: Fresh shrimp or salmon strips in a sweetened coconut breading, served with a ginger soy dipping sauce and our homemade voodoo sauce.
The Salmon Fingers were served with two different sauces. It was basically a nicely breaded piece of salmon made like a fish stick. TasteBud A enjoyed the special voodoo sauce. I preferred the ginger soy dipping sauce. I think this was a well priced appetizer. Only $4.95 and the pieces were moderately sized.
Chicken Chimichanga: Tender chicken breast cooked with garlic, onions, cheddar cheese and seasoned with southwest spices, rolled in a crisped tortilla and topped with cheddar cheese, tomato salsa, sour cream and double pepper sauce, served over shredded lettuce.
Exactly as described, the entree arrived and I almost regretted getting an appetizer because I was sure I would never finish my plate. The presentation of the dish was very appetizing – sometimes with Mexican dishes that is a challenge. The chicken was cooked superbly! It was shredded and arrived moist and tender inside the perfectly cooked tortilla. I wish there would have been a slightly thicker bed of lettuce under it. The crisp, cool raw lettuce was a nice balance but the serving size wasn’t proportional to the size of the chimichanga.
Oh, I finished my plate myself – only sharing one bite of the entree with Tastebud A. TasteBud A on the otherhand barely put a dent in his Pittsburgh Salad with Crispy Chicken. He said his salad tasted good, but was probably a safer item on the menu to order. I mean, really, who can mess up adding chicken tenders to a salad – haha.
All in all. I’d recommend the place. The service was friendly and prompt, but we really were one of the few customers there. Let us know if you try Whiskey Hollow out! I think next time, I may have to order the Seafood Chimichanga or the Fresh Salmon Gyro Salad.
Tastebud A here. I know Tastebud B pretty much gave you our whole experience but I wanted to give my 10 cents 🙂 I sampled some of Salmon Fingers that Tastebud B ordered, they were really good! It was full of flavor and the voodoo sauce was nice and creamy.
For Dinner I ordered the Pittsburgher Salad. You had a choice of steak, grilled or breaded chicken. I went with the breaded chicken and picked Ranch as my dressing. The salad was BIG! …which was a good thing! Mixed greens, tomatos, onion, mushrooms, cucumber, cheese, french fries and chicken. The whole thing was piled high. The waitress was smart and brought 2 cups of dressings.
The whole thing was great but I couldn’t finish. It was just a lot of food! Next time I’m going to be more exciting in my menu option. I’ve been a bit boring so I’ll switch things up a bit.
Thanks for reading everyone and hopes this helps! |
No Gluten containing ingredients
Moist Chocolate Cake – 400gm.
Cake is baked in a food grade tray and packed into a clear hinged container.
Ingredients- Allergens in CAPITALS,
EGGS, Sugar, Sunflower Oil, Potato Starch, Fat-reduced Cocoa Powder (5%), Whey Powder (MILK), Raising Agents: E450, E500; Emulsifier: E471, Stabilser: E451; Salt.
This cake has a shelf life of 10 Days stored in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight
Dark chocolate Chips can be added to this cake on request – *Chocolate Chips contain SOYA* |
Order online from CakeZone and get the best cakes in Hyderabad
CakeZone is the best online cake delivery options for all the occasions from birthday, anniversary, wedding, celebration, party, graduation, republic day, valentines day cakes to independence day cakes and to a lot more. CakeZone has best customized, designer & personalized cakes online in Hyderabad for every important occasion and sweetening the taste buds of the people of Hyderabad with yummy and delicious cakes and cupcakes. We have got the best chefs to bake for you and ensure you get the best cakes available online or anywhere in Hyderabad in no time. Our amazing chefs with a lot of years experience in cake baking will bake the most delicious desserts with quality ingredients to make sure you get the best cake ever.
Our quick and express delivery service ensures you that you get your favourite cake at your doorsteps at the right time and in case of any delay our customer support team is always there to help you to make sure you are given the best online cake delivery experience possible. Our staff works relentlessly to ensure that you get the best cake in Hyderabad delivered at your doorsteps without any hustle and bustle. Our delivery squadron and customer delight team are known for its quick and prompt services.
Being amongst the largest providers of online cake delivery in Hyderabad we have a lot of cake shops near you in Hyderabad some of which are in Madhapur, Kukatpally and Tarnaka. Our amazing delivery line in Hyderabad services at the prime locations like Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Ameerpet, Hi-Tech City, Kondapur, Begumpet, Manikonda, Hakimpet, Toli Chowki, Miyapur, Nizampet, Hafeezpet, Mehdipatnam, Malakpet, Nampally, Saidabad, Amberpet, Humayun Nagar, Mansoorabad, Shanti Nagar ensures quick delivery services in these areas and other areas nearby.
We make sure you get the best cakes online at the comfort of your home from us at CakeZone. The free shipping policy and prompt delivery help us stand out from other cake providers available near you in Hyderabad. If you miss someone in Hyderabad, we have various delivery options to send best cakes in Hyderabad as per your preferred time of receiving the parcel. We deliver from early morning 8 AM to midnight at your doorsteps.
Best online cakes near you in Hyderabad
Savour the wide variety of yummy cakes like the Black Forest, Red Velvet, Choco Truffle etc it tastes better than any other cake you would have tried before. The best chefs and the amazing ingredients make sure that we sell the best cakes in Hyderabad. We cover all occasions to make sure you get the best cakes for all celebrations. We don't stick to just normal cake. Eggless Cakes, Fondant Cakes, Photo Cakes etc are all part of our ever growing cake delivery lineup in Hyderabad. Special Birthday Cakes, Anniversary Cakes, Wedding Cakes, Corporate Cakes etc are all covered. We make sure that you get the best cakes not just on regular occasions but also on festivals. Diwali Special Cake, New Year Cake and Valentines Day Cakes are some of the best and most selling cakes we ever created. We give our customers such great experience that they think about CakeZone every time when they think of a celebration. We want all your special occasions are celebrated with our cakes. We also have a special service called "Create your own Custom Cake", this will help any average customer place the order for the best cake according to their wishes. We also offer a wide variety of Cupcakes to give you more choices. Each cupcake has the option to be customized according to your needs and interests. Our cake range is as wide as the sky and as large as the ocean. You name the cake and we have it. So next time you have any occasion or craving for a cake, order it on CakeZone and get fresh, spongy, creamy, fluffy and best quality cake in Hyderabad.
Once your order is placed to send cakes online anywhere in Hyderabad we make sure that it's reached within time. Our delivery fleet with our special packaging works towards making sure that every cake is delivered on time anywhere in Hyderabad. A lot of functions are at night so we understand the importance of on-time cake delivery at midnights, so we make sure that your order is delivered on time. Our time slots are made to get the best of the delivery fleet and also get the best results for you. Our fleet delivers across Hyderabad at the right selected times, doesn't matter if it's cake delivery in Madhapur, Kukatpally, Tarnaka or in any other place in Hyderabad near you.
CakeZone - Best Online Cake Delivery in Hyderabad
Hyderabad is also known as Hitech city, emerging IT hub of India and the multicultural city gives every day an opportunity to celebrate. The city with a lot of cultures and varieties of festivals, the love for the cake among them binds all people of Hyderabad. The cake is one of the best sweet desserts which can surprise people on all occasions and helps to satisfy different kinds of people like a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, kids, him and her. Therefore the call for online cake delivery in Hyderabad is at an all-time high. Ordering cake online in Hyderabad and enjoying the best online cakes in Hyderabad helps to spread joy and happiness among your friend's circle and office colleagues.
The long busy routine work life, hectic traffic and busy roads of Hyderabad halt the people from enjoying most of the city life and from tasting most of the varieties of cakes in Hyderabad. Cake shops in Hyderabad, Designer cake shops in Hyderabad, Famous cake shops in Hyderabad, Cake shops in Hyderabad home delivery, Top cake shops in Hyderabad, Good cake shops in Hyderabad are common searches of people in Hyderabad for tasting the best cakes online. All these searches of the people in Hyderabad are redirecting to the best online cake delivery store in Hyderabad called CakeZone. CakeZone, the best online cake shop in Hyderabad has cakes available in pleasant varieties such as Black Forest, Red velvet, Pineapple, Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate and many more delectable flavours which will surely surprise your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife on every occasions like Birthdays, Anniversaries, Baby Shower, office parties, get together, Valentine's Day, night out parties etc.
CakeZone, a top cake shop in Hyderabad which operates on the cloud kitchen model has super efficient kitchens at most prominent regions of the Hyderabad like Madhapur, Kukatpally and Tarnaka. Our amazing delivery line in Hyderabad services at the prime locations like Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Ameerpet, Hi-Tech City, Kondapur, Begumpet, Manikonda, Hakimpet, Toli Chowki, Miyapur, Nizampet, Hafeezpet, Mehdipatnam, Malakpet, Nampally, Saidabad, Amberpet, Humayun Nagar, Mansoorabad, Shanti Nagar ensures quick delivery services in these areas and other areas nearby. With the super efficient kitchen, fast and prompt logistics team, CakeZone delivers best and freshly prepared cakes to all parts of Hyderabad in no time at your doorsteps. Night out parties, office and corporate parties, cakes for office besties, cakes for surprises are common among the people of Hyderabad.
The people of Hyderabad are always thriving and a little bit confused to find the best online cake store in Hyderabad where the cakes are delivered to them at a particular time slot. As a saviour to these difficult situations faced by the people of Hyderabad, CakeZone comes with a perfect solution as preferred time slot delivery of cakes where cakes, cupcakes are delivered to office space, home or your preferred place at your required time with our express delivery services to make the occasion memorable and to enhance the festivity mood. So don't fear and leave your celebration ideas due to the boring and notorious traffic of Hyderabad, CakeZone's online cake delivery in Hyderabad go around 24 hours a day to satisfy all the customers out there and with our assured cake delivery and effortless online booking process can make the celebrations marvellous.
Online Cake Order in Hyderabad
CakeZone.com, the best online cake ordering website in Hyderabad created all possible delivery options to ensure the best convenience possible for a customer who is looking for a cake to celebrate on a special occasion.
Ordering a cake online in Hyderabad through CakeZone is as simple as eating one. Here we give a comprehensive step by step process like a flowchart to make the online cake ordering in Hyderabad an effortless task.
For New User: Click on the login button on the top right corner of the landing page. After clicking it, you will redirect to a sign-up page. Fill the required details like phone number, name, email address and a password for CakeZone account, then click the submit button. An OTP is sent to the registered mobile number for verifying the account. Verify your account by entering the OTP and click verify button. Your CakeZone account is created successfully.
For Existing User: Login to your cakezone account using OTP or with mobile number and password.
Once you entered into the main page. Choose the region (Bangalore/Hyderabad/Pune) where you want to order or to send the cake and enter the delivery pin code.
Click on the "Cakes" icon and choose your best cake on Occasion, by Type, for upcoming special days and by flavours and add a personalised message on the cake if required.
Click Add to Cart button and choose the best Add-ons to spice up the party and proceed to checkout.
Enter the Name, Delivery Address, Contact number for shipping the cake.
Select the delivery date and delivery time of your choice. We are offering same-day delivery, fixed time delivery, midnight and overnight delivery for cakes. Choose the best option for you and click continue.
Review your order and make the payment. We support all major payment options like Debit card, Credit card, Net Banking and Modern Payment options like PayPal, Paytm, Razorpay etc. Cash on Delivery option (COD) is also available.
After making the payment, you will get the order details on your screen and a confirmation mail and a message will be sent to your registered email id and your mobile number respectively.
We are here to resolve all your issue and queries through our active customer support team. You can contact the customer care team for all queries related to your order.
We strive to work towards the long-lasting bond of commitment and reliability. So what are you waiting for? Just order a cake online and bring a smile to your loved one's face with an exotic blend of aroma and taste of CakeZone.
Same Day Cake Delivery in Hyderabad
The cake became an unavoidable part of every celebration and intensifying the fun and excitement factors of all festivals. Surprise elements of these festivals can be doubled when the cake gets delivered on the same day of ordering. Same Day cake delivery in Hyderabad, the most liked service of CakeZone comes as a rescue when you forget to order a cake in advance to wish your dear friend or parents or loved ones on an important occasion. Don't worry through our same day cake delivery service in Hyderabad, you can order large varieties of cakes by flavour, by types at CakeZone and send warm wishes along with delectable cakes to all your dear ones in Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Ameerpet, Hi-Tech City, Kondapur, Begumpet, Manikonda, Hakimpet, Toli Chowki, Miyapur, Nizampet, Hafeezpet, Mehdipatnam, Malakpet, Nampally, Saidabad, Amberpet, Humayun Nagar, Mansoorabad, Shanti Nagar and many more cities. To get the full advantage of same day cake delivery, you have to order your favourite cake from CakeZone at least 2 hours before the time of delivery. At the time when you completely forgot about your Anniversary and want to surprise your wife with a cake and also for instant surprise parties at the office, get-togethers etc are the special occasions where you require a same day cake delivery in Hyderabad. Our same day cake delivery with the help of efficient delivery team will ensure that the cake will be delivered at your friends/loved one's doorstep on right time without any hassles.
Midnight Cake Delivery in Hyderabad
Ordering cake online in Hyderabad through midnight delivery option is the most demanded cake delivery service in Hyderabad. People of Hyderabad like to celebrate with friends at midnight to enjoy the each and every moment in a fantastic way. Ordering cake in Hyderabad at midnight helps to add extra charm and elegance to the party and it also sparks up the surprise elements of the occasion. CakeZone completely understands the need of people and advantage of online cake order in Hyderabad midnight and comes with its super-efficient Midnight delivery services for cakes, cupcakes, flowers, gifts for adding extra elements of surprise for your loved ones. Add extra sweetness to the moment for your loved ones in life on special occasions like Birthdays, Valentine's Day, and Wedding Anniversary by midnight cake delivery in Hyderabad at CakeZone through it hassle-free delivery services. If you planning to surprise your friend on his birthday at midnight and you are stuck in the boring traffic, don't leave your idea behind, CakeZone can become your saviour by ordering cakes of your choice from black forest cake, red velvet cake, butterscotch cake and from wide varieties of other delectable cakes. Just log in to our CakeZone account through mobile, select the best cakes from it to surprise your partner and select the delivery time, and give the rest to us we will deliver the cake to your loved one's doorstep without losing its surprise elements. The cakes will be carefully packed with elements to reflect the festivity mood.
Immediate Cake Delivery in Hyderabad
The desire of eating a cake on a particular day or time is instant. To fulfil this desire, you need an online cake shop which has immediate cake delivery services in Hyderabad. Yes, CakeZone comes up with instant and immediate cake delivery service in Hyderabad for all those who wanted to taste the delectable cakes in a matter of time. With the 1-hour time slot cake delivery service of CakeZone, any moment can be a cake moment. Immediate cake delivery in Hyderabad includes a wide range of yummy cakes, cupcakes and pastries, so you can taste the delicious cakes of CakeZone in no time. When you are leaving Hyderabad or having a flight within an hour and you had a sudden thought of having the best cakes, cupcakes in Hyderabad, just log in to the CakeZone website and choose the cake of your choice and select the preferred 1 hour time slot and leave rest to us, we will deliver the cake at your doorstep on time through our express delivery services. Don't worry about the freshness, all cakes, cupcakes at CakeZone baked to order just before the scheduled delivery and packed properly so that the freshness of the cake will not be lost. We work based on the cloud kitchen model and having 3 major kitchens in Hyderabad and delivery service in all parts of Hyderabad to fulfil the customer demand in no time with our immediate cake delivery services.
Best Cakes in Hyderabad for all Occasions
Festivals, special days and occasions we celebrate adds a lot of colour to our lives and it also gives you good memories to be remembered for the entire lifetime. Birthdays, Anniversary, Baby shower, Wedding, Valentine's Day, Holi are the important festivals and special occasions in everybody's life. So celebrate these special days in your life with amazing cake varieties in Hyderabad such as black forest, red velvet, Pineapple, Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate, and many more delectable flavours and share your happiness and special moments with your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, parents by gifting them with best delectable cakes in Hyderabad from CakeZone. Hyderabad has people from all parts of India and host and celebrates all festivals with great enthusiasm and fun. Cakes are the inevitable dessert and gift for all special moments, in order to spice up the special days CakeZone comes with unique cakes and cake flavour for all occasions under a single umbrella. Go through the occasion-specific cakes at CakeZone; cartoon shaped, theme cakes, photo cakes for kids Birthdays, heart-shaped cakes with a different flavour of the cake for Wedding and Anniversary, designer cakes for engagements, premium and eggless cakes for the special person in your life and order these best cakes in Hyderabad for your loved ones.
Online Birthday Cake Delivery in Hyderabad
Birthday is considered to be a special day in everyone's life and it represents the milestone achieved in life and cheered with full celebrations. Family members, friends, office colleagues will be part of the birthday celebrations and they will make your day special with amazing Birthday cakes online. To add extra spice and sweetness to the birthdays, CakeZone brings you a huge variety of delectable and freshly baked cakes for birthdays. Order Birthday cakes in Hyderabad through CakeZone for making the celebrations much more interesting. Best Birthday Cakes in Hyderabad offered by CakeZone are Chocolate Truffle Cake, Black Forest Cake, Red Velvet Cake, Rasmalai Cake, Choco Butterscotch Cake, Irish coffee and many more. Our skilled chef ensures that every order is crafted to perfection so that you get a memorable birthday cake. At CakeZone you can customize the Birthday cake online to give a personalised touch to the Birthday cake. Put a big smile to your loved one's face by ordering and sending Birthday cakes online from a simple regular cake to designer cake, these Birthday cakes come with different shapes like rectangle shaped cake, round shaped cake, heart-shaped cake and with many custom designs. Celebrate your baby's 1st Birthday with a special Birthday Photo cake or numerical 1 shaped cake or order and send 1st Birthday cake online to your friend's baby's in Hyderabad because the 1st birthday is the most special birthday for all kids. Make every birthday celebration memorable by ordering 2nd, 5th, 18th, 21st, 30th Birthday cakes online in Hyderabad. Nowadays people of Hyderabad are very much interested in midnight birthday celebrations. To make midnight birthday party amazing in Hyderabad, CakeZone comes with Midnight Birthday cake delivery and Overnight Birthday cake delivery in Hyderabad through its express midnight cake delivery services.
Cakes for Wedding Anniversary
Wedding holds a special place in our life. We celebrate the anniversary in memorable ways that we cherish each year with an apt celebrational ceremony. A cake has become an essential part of every joyous ceremony, and when you are celebrating an anniversary, it is incomplete without cutting a cake. The anniversary is one of the most delightful events. It's a day for a couple to celebrate their years together and revive about how far they have come. CakeZone comes with innumerable Anniversary cakes such as Pink Ombre Rose Cake, Red Roses Love Cake, Premium Heart Shape Photo Cake, Special Red Velvet Cake, Love in Hearts Cake and many more. Anniversary Cakes at CakeZone are specially made to enchant with their highly appealing and luxuriant style. So Go ahead, Order Best Anniversary cakes online at CakeZone and spread love in your relationship. Whether it is your 1st wedding anniversary or 25th anniversary or 50th anniversary, make every anniversary celebrations special with the best and personalised anniversary cake from CakeZone. Explore the wide range of anniversary cakes from CakeZone, choose the perfect anniversary cake for you and order anniversary cake online in Hyderabad to make the day special and memorable. Send marriage anniversary cakes online in Hyderabad for your family members, friends and loved ones or order for yourself from CakeZone and get it delivered in no time with our same day anniversary cake delivery, midnight anniversary cake delivery, fixed and preferred time slot delivery for anniversary cakes in Hyderabad. Add extra magic to your marriage anniversary by ordering cakes along with flowers, chocolates and personalised anniversary gifts for uplifting the anniversary mood. Anniversary cake combos are the best gift for an anniversary, so order anniversary cake, cake combos online and create magic in your relationship and make your bond stronger.
Order Valentine's Day cake online
Valentine's Day is always correlated with Valentine's Day special gifts and Valentine's Day Cakes. People celebrate Valentine's Day across the world by expressing their true love and enjoying the day with special ones. The whole week of Valentine's Day is celebrated with romantic Valentine's Day date, marriage proposals, fun and love filled holidays. Unique and Best Valentine's Day cakes are exchanged between husband and wife, girlfriend and boyfriend, him and her to make the occasion memorable and special for the loved ones. Always order and exchange the Valentine's Day special cakes online for the special person in your life and choose the gift that can express the love and affection in the best possible way.
Valentine's Day, the official day celebrated on 14th February to express love to our dear ones. The week of Valentine's Day starts with rose day followed by propose day, chocolate day, teddy day, promise day, hug day, kiss day and Valentine's Day. On these days of the Valentine's Day week, people express their love to their loved ones by gifting roses and bouquets, special greeting cards, Valentine's Day special cakes, cute teddies, chocolates, special valentine's combos, personalized coffee mugs, and other special Valentine's Day gifts. To make the Valentine's Day special, for getting the best memory of it and for surprising the loved ones, order mouthwatering Valentine's cakes to infuse sweetness in your life. CakeZone brings you a wide assortment of delicious Valentine's Day cake online such as Special Valentine Heart Cake, Pink Ombre Rose Cake, Red Velvet Heart Cake, Little Heart Roses Cake, Heart-shaped black forest cake, Double heart chocolate cake, 2-tier chocolate cake, Heart-shaped strawberry cake, and many more special Valentine's Day cakes to spark, infuse more love and for making the relationship stronger. Choose from the irresistible Valentine's Day cakes like red velvet cake, black forest cake and other heart shaped cakes which come with a large variety of delectable flavours like vanilla, chocolate, butterscotch, strawberry and many more delicious flavours. If you are in a long distance relationship and want to sent best valentine's day cake to your loved ones, our express delivery services will take care of the shipment and order will be delivered at your loved one's doorstep without any delay. To bind the relationship stronger and to infuse more love between your partner, choose the cakes from the wide range of Valentine's Day cakes at CakeZone. Our prompt and fast delivery team offers same day, fixed time delivery, midnight delivery and preferred time slot delivery for all Valentine's Day gifts online.
Baby Shower Cakes in Hyderabad
A baby shower is an occasion to celebrate the birth of a baby with loads of love and presents. This will be the joyous moment in a mother's life. In order to make this occasion special friends, family members order baby shower cake online for making this moment a celebration. Choose the best baby shower cake design and make happy memories forever. Order baby shower cake online in Hyderabad from CakeZone or send the baby shower cake design, we will create the baby shower cake of your choice and will send to you with special care. Baby shower cake for boy and baby shower cake for girl babies are available online at CakeZone. If you don't have a baby shower cake design in mind, choose the baby shower cake designs at CakeZone and we will deliver the baby shower cake at your doorstep through our midnight and same day cake delivery services.
Special Cakes in Hyderabad
Buy personalised cakes in Hyderabad, cake shop near me for custom cakes, buy designer cakes online in Hyderabad, fast cake delivery in Hyderabad, cake shops near me, all these searches of the people in Hyderabad will be redirecting to a single online cake delivery store in Hyderabad called CakeZone. Online cakes delivery in Hyderabad at CakeZone can uplift the spirit of every celebration with best and delectable personalised cakes in Hyderabad. CakeZone provides a best online experience for buying and ordering personalised cakes online in Hyderabad. The easiness of ordering personalised cakes in Hyderabad at CakeZone is at high, you have the option to upload a picture of your choice to create a custom cake for you or choose from the wide assortment of photo cakes, designer cakes, theme cakes, fondant cakes at CakeZone. These customized cakes surely a treat for your eyes, make the recipient feel special and comes in moist and tender texture.
Photo cakes online
If you are looking for a cake that can put an everlasting impression, then the answer to the question is photo cakes. A photo cake comes with the photo of a person you love most or something which really close to your heart like birthday photo of your child or anniversary photo of your friend's. The special edible sheet for the photo cake is made with cornstarch and imprinting the photo onto the icing paper using food colouring. This will add an extra layer to your special cake without taking away the look and taste of the photo cake. The idea of photo cake is getting more popular among the people and lots of new people are really converting from traditional cakes to personalized photo cakes. There is no other better option than heart-touching photo cake when it comes to comes to celebrating the Birthdays, Anniversary, and Valentine's Day etc.
Cake with memories on them is the best gift you can give to your friends, families and loved ones on all special occasion. Cakes come with a photo on it always gives you a personal touch and surely enhance the mood of the festivity. Now you can easily order the delectable photo cakes online in Hyderabad from exclusive CakeZone store. Photo Cakes are the symbol of love and inevitable part of every celebration. Surprise your loved ones on their Birthdays, Anniversary or Valentine's Day with a lip-smacking photo cake from CakeZone which are made with utmost perfection and creativity. Choose the photo cake for grand parties like a birthday for your child, Wedding Anniversary, Farewell party, Office Success Party or it can be any occasions. Enhance your taste buds to an endless delight with CakeZone. Send photo cakes to your dear ones and provide a personalized touch to the cake by decorating it with personalized photos on it. Photo Cake is good with flower bouquet as a combo and you can send it to someone special in your life on special occasions.
Everybody loves the precious sight of a child's smile. In order to add an extra smile on the child's face, CakeZone comes with a comprehensive range of kids' cake for making the birthday of your child more special. Kids are very much fond of cartoon characters and they feel special if they get a cake in the shape of their cartoon characters. So as a surprise for all the kids in Hyderabad, CakeZone comes with best cartoon characters cake for all kids in Hyderabad to make the kids feel special and to feel amazed. To surprise your kids in their birthdays, CakeZone comes with Spiderman face cake, mighty Raju cake, Chota Bheem cake, Chota Bheem face cake, Doraemon cake, minion cake, Barbie cake and many more. Choose the best kids cake in Hyderabad from CakeZone and give a big surprise to your kids and make them feel special.
Types of Cakes
Sugar free cakes online in Hyderabad
Sugar free cakes have low-calorie and it is diabetes-friendly. The health consciousnesses between people are growing and ordering of sugar free cakes in Hyderabad is increasing. In sugar free cake instead of sugar organic sweetness is added not to lose the traditional cake flavour and not to spoil the fun while eating the cake. If you controlling sugar level and you don't want to give up your favourite cakes, don't worry order sugar free cakes online in Hyderabad from CakeZone. At CakeZone we gathered the best, tastiest and healthy sugar free cake which can be enjoyed by all ages and prepared not losing the traditional taste of regular cakes. Order sugar free cake online and we will send it on time using our express delivery services. We also offer same day and midnight delivery services for sugar free cakes. If you are staying away from your grandfather or grandmother, surprise them on their birthdays by sending sugar free cakes online.
CakeZone an ideal cake shops in Hyderabad for all Vegetarians because we showcase a wide range of eggless cakes which exactly matches the taste of the vegetarians and you have the call to make your cake with an eggless option from the wide range of cakes from CakeZone. Eggless cakes will not lose its taste, tenderness and will be a good treat. Send eggless cakes to all your vegetarian friends in Hyderabad and steal their hearts with some amazing eggless cake options at CakeZone. So order eggless cakes in Hyderabad and make your veggie friend celebration a memorable one.
Cupcakes in Hyderabad
Cupcakes are the perfect delicacy to gratify the taste buds of everyone and are the source of happiness that can add happiness to every celebration and make them memorable. The Cupcakes are cute, little treats that can make up anyone's day. This rich and delectable taste will sweeten up your taste buds, and the best thing is that order cupcakes online, which are available in various flavours like chocolate, strawberry, vanilla or red velvet and many more in our online cake store. These are decorated with icing and frosting to make it appear attractive. When it comes to celebrating the beautiful Valentine's Day, Makara Sankranti, loved one's birthdays, order and send cupcakes online to your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, husband and special ones. We have highly customized cupcake designs like unicorn Cupcake, Assorted Cupcakes, Valentine's Day themed Cupcakes, Valentine's Day special Cupcakes and many more.
Best Designer Cakes Online in Hyderabad
Cake can make a mark and makes the celebrations perfect. Cakes are the perfect dessert and it is loved by all people irrespective of the ages on every special occasion like Birthdays, Anniversary, Wedding, Valentine's Day etc. Order a designer cake online to take up the celebrations and special moments a notch higher. Improvement in the baking techniques, thrive of people to add extra elements to the cake and to spice up the celebrations to the next level; an innovative change in the regular cake is necessary for fulfilling the customer satisfaction. The magnificent designer theme cakes look and taste really delicious and can add surprise elements to all celebrations. The designer cakes surely a treat for your eyes, makes the recipient feel special and comes in moist and tender texture. Designer cakes are baked with utmost love, care and creativity by our chefs.
Order designer cakes online from cakezone, the best designer cake shops in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune to order the best design themed cakes that are highly appealing, unique, and luxurious and come with delectable flavours. Send Birthday designer or designer anniversary cakes to your special friend, parents, sister, and loved ones from the wide range of custom designer cakes that are available online at CakeZone. Order designer themed cakes for your kid's birthday starting from birthday number cakes, Barbie doll cakes, cartoon themed cakes, superhero-themed cakes, and these designer cakes can really fit in your kid's birthday. Order our best selling guitar-shaped cake for your musician friend on his birthday or as an appreciation gift for his success in concerts. Send designer cakes online to your special ones not only on Birthdays but also on other special days like Valentine's Day, mother's day, friendship day, father's day and also on festivals like Holi, Diwali and other special occasions and surprise them with exotic flavours of designer cakes like chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, strawberry, pineapple, orange, black currant etc to leave a everlasting impression and for putting a big smile on their face. Order and send Valentine's Day special designer cakes online from CakeZone to express your feelings and love to your dear ones from the mouth-watering range of designer fondant cakes to make the relationship bond stronger and to add sweetness to the love.
CakeZone, the best online cake shop for designer cakes, which operates on the cloud kitchen model and fulfilling the customer demand by its own logistics team. Ordering a personalised, custom, designer, fondant cakes are escalated among the people of Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune. CakeZone comes with express delivery services for designer cakes on all occasions. Through the online portal, you can enjoy the same day and midnight delivery services for all designer cakes across Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad and other major cities across India. If you can't be there on the special occasion, you can send custom themed cakes to your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, husband, him and her through our fast and hassle-free delivery services. So from the comfort of the home, order designer cakes online and we will deliver at your doorstep.
Variety of Cake Flavours
CakeZone, online cake delivery store in Hyderabad making master class cakes of different flavours for all the festivals and special occasions. Without any doubt, finding the best-flavoured cake is the most exciting and delicious part of all celebrations. Not only the premium cake tastes incredible, but also fun-filled flavoured cakes will enhance your taste buds and this beautiful cake adds an extra bit of magic to your special day. The love for food and cakes among the people of Hyderabad is at an all-time high. The love for the flavoured cakes among the people of Hyderabad is multiplied over the years and they are always in the search for the new cakes and cake flavours. The search for delicious flavoured cakes, online cake delivery in Hyderabad same day, cakes online in Hyderabad ends at CakeZone. CakeZone brings freshly baked best collections of flavoured cakes online for making the special moments in your life perfect and refreshing. Make every celebration joyful and adore your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, him and her by ordering the best cakes online in Hyderabad.
The taste and preference for the cake vary among the people. So don't be tensed CakeZone understand and welcomes every choice. Is your friend a chocolate lover? Or your boyfriend is fond of fruit cake, and you are confused what to order to satisfy all the needs, don't worry we have a broad range of cakes comes in different flavours, which can satisfy a chocolate lover boyfriend, a fruit lover husband, a coffee lover girlfriend. We always on the process of bringing new flavours and cake designs to satisfy all the range of people out there in Hyderabad and to enhance their taste buds with their amazing taste. So what are you waiting for? Order and send best cakes online in Hyderabad which comes in different flavours and designs in just a few clicks.
Cakes for Chocolate Lover:
The pure joy and happiness in your life can uplift with the sweet and delicious tasty chocolates. What can be more fun and soul-stirring than a delectable chocolate cake? CakeZone brings you a broad range of chocolate cake that you can't resist and it will reminiscent the sweet childhood memories. Our irresistible chocolate cakes are baked with rich chocolates and this scrumptious range of most tempting chocolate cakes are the perfect treat for all the special occasions like Birthdays, Valentine's Day, Anniversary, Kids Birthdays that will light up the celebration mood never before.
CakeZone, the best cake shop near you in Hyderabad for sending and ordering a scrumptious array of delectable chocolate cakes and flower gifts online for all your loved ones. Order the best chocolate cakes online like Choco-truffle cake, Chocolate truffle cake, Ferrero Rocher cake, Chocolate overload cake, Chocolate Oreo cake, Kit Kat cake, Choco Nut cake, Choco petals delight and many more delicious chocolate flavoured cakes. Now send the delicious chocolate cakes online to all your dear ones in Hyderabad through our services like same day and midnight cake delivery in Hyderabad.
Cakes for Coffee Lover:
To amuse all the coffee lovers in the town of Hyderabad, CakeZone comes with a scrumptious, sweet array of coffee cakes that are unique and taste exactly the same as freshly brewed coffee. CakeZone never compromises on the quality of coffee cakes; each cake is made with high-quality ingredients and most attractive designs. Order the best coffee cake online in Hyderabad like Coffee chocolate cake, Irish coffee cake, coffee cupcakes etc and add more magic, happiness and excitement to all your loved ones out there in Hyderabad. Order coffee cakes online in Hyderabad and our online cake delivery services will ensure the same day and midnight delivery of coffee cakes.
Cakes for fruitcake Lover:
If you want to get the bang of sour, sweet, strong and penetrate flavours in your mouth, then the fruitcakes are the best choice for you. Eating fresh fruits will elevate the joys of life; if you want to make the celebrations to the next level and to make each special moment memorable, then the fruit cake is a perfect choice. Now you can order easily the best fruitcakes in Hyderabad from CakeZone, the best online cake shop for all types of cakes. CakeZone the ultimate destination for buying the best fruitcakes online and allows you to order the fruitcakes from the comfort of your home. The delicious fruit cakes from CakeZone are layered with soft and thick cream so that you will enjoy every bite of it and will enhance your taste buds with distinctive flavour. Best fruit cakes offered by CakeZone for all the people in Hyderabad available in different flavours like Pineapple Vanilla, Black Currant, Mixed Fruit, Pineapple, Apple Rasmalai, Fresh Fruit, Litchi, Kiwi, Strawberry, Blueberry, Orange Tang, Green Apple, Mango Masti, Mango Gateaux. Fruitcakes are the perfect treat for all special occasions like Valentine's Day, Birthdays, Wedding Anniversary, Father's Day, Mother's Day and other important celebrations. Order lip-smacking fruit cake online in Hyderabad from CakeZone and send to all your loved ones.
Being amongst the largest providers of online cake delivery in Hyderabad we have a lot of cake shops near you in Hyderabad some of which are in Madhapur, Kukatpally and Tarnaka. Our amazing delivery line in Hyderabad services at the prime locations like Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Ameerpet, Hi-Tech City, Kondapur, Begumpet, Manikonda, Hakimpet, Toli Chowki, Miyapur, Nizampet, Hafeezpet, Mehdipatnam, Malakpet, Nampally, Saidabad, Amberpet, Humayun Nagar, Mansoorabad, Shanti Nagar ensures quick delivery services in these areas and other areas nearby. We have got the best chefs to bake for you and ensure you get the best cakes available online or anywhere in Hyderabad in no time. Surprise elements of the festivals can be doubled when the cake gets delivered on the same day and at midnight. Same Day and midnight cake delivery in Hyderabad, the most liked service of CakeZone comes as a rescue when you forget to order a cake in advance to wish your dear friend or parents or loved ones on an important occasion. In order to get all the advantages of online cake ordering, just log in to the CakeZone website and choose the cake of your choice and leave the rest to us, we will deliver the cake at your doorstep on time through our express delivery services. Don't worry about the freshness, all cakes, cupcakes at CakeZone baked to order just before the scheduled delivery and packed properly so that the freshness of the cake will not be lost.
Area/Localities for Cakes Delivery in Hyderabad
Our service is available in all major localities of Hyderabad. Here is a list of few locations:
A S Rao Nagar
D D Colony
Himayath Sagar Road
L B Nagar
Lakdi Ka Pool
R C Puram
RTC X Roads
S R Nagar
Sri Krishna Nagar
Sri Nagar colony
Srinivasa Nagar Colony
Tank Bund Road
Tilak Nagar x Roads
Vijay Nagar Colony
What is the basis for all the prices for different cakes?
The prices are based on the size, design, flavour and other aspects of the cakes which differ from cake to cake.
Can we get some add-ons like flowers etc. if it's a special occasion?
Absolutely! You can order by selecting flower from flowers section with your cake order (whether you make it online or on call) and also order special add-on like chocolates if it's a loved one's birthday or anniversary or if it's the Valentine's Day.
Can I get a cake customized to my needs?
Yes, you can! You can get a custom-made cake according to your preferences and needs according to the flavor, size, and decoration provided you inform us well in advance. Call us at 99860132888 or Email us at [email protected] for custom cake requests.
When can I usually expect my order to be delivered?
We work throughout the week and we make express deliveries right at your doorstep too so that if you have gotten late to order a cake from our website, you do not have to worry because we will make the delivery within the same day.
What kind of shipping charges can I expect?
We make free home deliveries and do not charge for our shipping and deliveries on day timings. We have extra delivery charges for midnight and early morning delivery options which you can find out at the checkout page.
If I am not happy with my order, what can I do and how can you help me?
If for some reason you are not happy with your order, you can simply visit our website and mention the order number through the contact form you’ll see there. You can also state your query or problem with the order and we’ll make sure to replace your order with another one as soon as possible.
Can I return my order and get a refund for the same?
If you receive a faulty product, we will ask that you return it to us the same day with the proper receipt. You can also get in touch with our Customer Service’s team that will quickly resolve any issues that you might have.
How soon can I expect my complaint/query to be entertained?
You can expect your complaint or query to be addressed within 1 hour and if you could perhaps send an image with your complaint, that will help us get through to your query and resolve it more quickly and in a more efficient manner.
Is there a chance that I might not be given a refund?
Yes! Refunds are issued only if it has been clearly established that the mistake made was on the part of the company or maybe during the delivery process. Any and all actions that resulted from your own product misuse or personalization of the product would result in a non-refund. You can check out our terms and conditions page for more information regarding the same.
What all mode of payments would you accept?
We accept debit/credit cards (Visa/Master/Amex), net banking, wallet or cash on delivery works just fine too.
Is there any safety issue if I pay via card and will my card details be safe?
Your payments and credit/debit card details are totally safe through safe and secure payment gateways and you can pay through a card and rest easy.
I am a very conscious eater and only believe in healthy eating. Can I get a list of the ingredients that went in my order to cross check?
Absolutely! We value any and all needs of our customers and you can simply let us know beforehand with a special request with your order and we will make sure that you get a thorough list of ingredients with your order.
How can I get in touch with you?
You can visit our website www.cakeszone.com or simply click on this link: https://www.cakeszone.com/hyderabad to get in touch with us and order your preferred choice of cakes. You can reach us on our customer care number 9696685500 or mail us at [email protected].
If I want to place a large order, can that be done and how can I get in touch with you?
Yes, you are very welcome to place large orders for bigger and grander events. We would absolutely love to help you out with your any and all requirements and as mentioned above, you can simply contact us through our website for such orders and we would be delighted to get back to you as soon as possible.
Do I have to worry about the quality of the cakes at all?
All are cakes are freshly baked with farm fresh produce and the freshest ingredients possible. Our team of chefs and bakers is specially trained and curated by culinary experts and only after they are satisfied with the end product, do the cakes reach your doorstep. We take great delight and pride in producing some of the best cakes in Hyderabad and customer satisfaction is our only mantra. You are bound to be satisfied with our wide range of cakes on offer in a plethora of different flavors and if at any moment you come across something that you do not like or are not satisfied with, we can always replace it for you.
Can I be assured of timely delivery?
Yes, absolutely! All our cakes are freshly baked to order and we ensure that the order reaches our customers in a timely fashion. We also make express deliveries and deliver orders within just a few hours in the case of urgent requirements.
Why should we take you at your word regarding the quality of your cakes and other products and the efficiency of your services?
Our website is loaded with the testimonials, feedbacks, and reviews of happy customers who try one of our delicious cakes and keep coming back for more because they just cannot get enough of them. Should you feel the need to verify the authenticity of the claims made by our website, you can simply visit our website to check out the innumerable and countless reviews by our happy and satisfied customers to know the true story of our bakery. |