Kamis, 30 September 2010

adorable! I want to knit them all!

printed pencil skirt review Just Like Me Knits Matching

Just Like Me Knits Matching

Cute and adorable clothing patterns for children ages 2-12 years of age and their companions abound in this book. Author Brandy Fortune has put together a collection of nineteen patterns each for child and a 15 inch doll that would be relatively simple to knit and loved by a child. The book has patterns for ballet wraps, pinafores, boys' color work sweaters, jackets, shrugs, skirts, and even bracelets.

The patterns list yarns that are usually found in specialty yarn shops, such as Blue Sky alpaca or Lorna's Laces. The patterns do use yarns in common weights, so it will be possible to substitute if a knitter chooses to do so.

There are a few things in particular I really love about this pattern collection; the photographs, the dolls, and the customization suggestions beginning on page 8. The collection itself has enough variety that if you want to knit for children, you will probably be able to find something for almost every child in this book. The dolls that are wearing the matching pieces are all 15 inch cloth bodied dolls. the dolls are adorable, and remind me of Kathy Kruse Waldorf style dolls. The book states that many of the patterns should also fit on 18 inch dolls, like American girl, without much adjusting needed. This bring s me to the third thing I like about this book - on page 8 Fortune tells how to use actual body measurements from children or dolls to adjust the patterns to a custom fit. Since children (and their dolls) do not have bust and waist shaping, adjusting patterns for them is much easier then for adult women. With the ability to customize, this book just made itself even more worthwhile. Knitters will need not fear a poor fit in their gifts to small loved ones.

Fortune is herself a busy mother to small children. She is the editor/founder of petite purls.com, an online knitting magazine. Fortune designed the patterns to be relatively quick to knit, with interesting stitches and patterning, and also to be comfortable to the children who would wear them.

Patterns I hope to knit from the book include the ballet shrug featured on the cover, the owl sweater for a boy, the felted crown hat, and the jesse bear hat. The hats are simple and whimsical enough that kids would not fight wearing them during cold snaps, and may even want to use them in their pretend play.

If you enjoy knitting for chidden, this is a lovely addition to your home knitting library.

FCC disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my knitting website at bellaonline.com. I received no compensation from the publisher for this review. All of my reviews are of my honest opinion.

Get your Just Like Me Knits Matching Now!

Rabu, 29 September 2010

A very good value

vacuum cleaner review Marantz SR7005 Audio Video Receiver

Marantz SR7005 Audio Video Receiver

I picked up a refurbished unit last month to replace an aging HK that was developing a feedback issue(s) on the analog inputs and then the digital inputs started picking up some white noise maybe from the video board.... Paid 899.

We have a 3D panasonic plasma, polks front, surround and center, klipsch for the wides (the height speaker set up was not liked by all), sony center speakers for the back surrounds and a cherwin vega and polk subs. I ran the microphone set up and enjoyed the new sound for a few days. Loud and clean but it was still lacking....it still had a harsh digital sound that seemed overworked......I blamed the player so clicky-clicky on amazon.

The settings for this reciever are limitless so I picked up a new panasonic blu-ray with 7.1 analog outputs with 32bit DAC chips and a 8 gang analog snake. It brought more separation and clarity to the mids and bass response using the 7.1 input on the marantz.....but oh the drama...

With the amp set on 'auto' it would always revert back to the hdmi input or worse yet, no sound when playing on the old(er) Sony blu-ray. Everyone was mad at me because it was to complicated) lol. The solution was a manual set up. 7.1 soundtracks go in the panasonic player and 5.1, SACD discs or anything with a dts symbol go in the Sony. Easy.

Used the set up program a few times while changing up the speaker placement. It's close. I like a little less mid range so I use the manual EQ for music and movies. This amp is truly amazing with the different speaker configuration. Most of our movies are 5.1 so we use the wide setup on this amp. This feature is my favorite.

We also have an apple tv box but compressed music is not my cup of tea. I can't comment on the correction software or marantz AirPlay upgrade. The apple box is useful to render what resides on your home network or iTunes account.

This was a refurbished unit and the firmware update was a non event.

Another remote.....that has to be pointed at the unit....sorry, no. A new Logitech harmony is on pre-order. Changing between apps on the iDevices is like work so the harmony will make it seamless. Innovating innovation.

The experience; the first audio format I played was a SACD version of dark side of the moon on the Sony. The remaster of the great gig in the sky was amazing. The zeppelin celebration day was ok for a live recording but we haven't tried any blu-ray audio CDs yet. Tom Petty is ordered and looking at David Grohls 'analog mixed' sound city studio tribute. The signal to noise ratio for this reciever let's you hear the music as close to what the artist intended.
Movie soundtracks are really what this reciever special. Anything layer down with 5.1 let's you use the wide setting for a soundstage with presence. When the punks drive up and gun down Ben Affleck in Smoking Aces, the wide setting lets you hear the car drive past then back up as if it was in your own living room. the earth imploding in the avengers will make your house think it is really happening. If there is a helicopter in a scene, the marantz will let you know. The amplifiers in this unit pound out some seriously tight bass.

There are a lot of amps on the market but everyone has their own preference to sound quality. The main reason I looked at this particular unit is that it is manufactured in Japan not a communist country. The second requirement was DNLA compliance. Every setting on the amp can be configured from the network using IE home group. HDMI Is no brainier but it took me a bit to configure everything correctly. For example, the Panasonic needed to modified to 7 channels (analog or digital) vs the 2ch/5.1 downmix which is the standard setting when hooked to a two speaker TV. Also, I found using the bitstream output sounds much better than the pulse code modulation when transferring music data into an emotional experience....

Pros; This is a powerful amp for our listening environment. Tool never sounded so good. It can support a wide range of inputs.

Cons; it takes some tweaking if you want to take full advantage of the diversity this reciever has to offer. HDMI makes stuff 'work' but there is more waiting below the surface...

Get your Marantz SR7005 Audio Video Receiver Now!

Selasa, 28 September 2010

Loved all the books so far, cannot wait for the next book in the series

dress women review Highland Defiance MacLomain Series ebook

Highland Defiance MacLomain Series ebook

This is a wonderful book for everyone, but since it is really marketed for children, this is how I will comment on this book. This story will help children not to be afraid and sad when someone they are missing, whether it be through death or by distance, are still in their heart. Just the way the story is told any child will feel comforted by the fact that they are always connected by the feelings in their heart to another loved one. This book will help if a pet has died or just went to live somewhere else. If a friend had to move away or if a parent just went to work. I bought it because my sister-in-law is very sick and will not be living to much longer. She has a 6 year old daughter and I thought this book would help to know that her mommy still loves her and that she is still with her in her heart.

Get your Highland Defiance MacLomain Series ebook Now!

Senin, 27 September 2010

Best book ever

buy sunglasses Nevermore Final Maximum Ride Adventure

Nevermore Final Maximum Ride Adventure

This is a wonderful book for everyone, but since it is really marketed for children, this is how I will comment on this book. This story will help children not to be afraid and sad when someone they are missing, whether it be through death or by distance, are still in their heart. Just the way the story is told any child will feel comforted by the fact that they are always connected by the feelings in their heart to another loved one. This book will help if a pet has died or just went to live somewhere else. If a friend had to move away or if a parent just went to work. I bought it because my sister-in-law is very sick and will not be living to much longer. She has a 6 year old daughter and I thought this book would help to know that her mommy still loves her and that she is still with her in her heart.

Get your Nevermore Final Maximum Ride Adventure Now!

Minggu, 26 September 2010

Invisible String, Tangible Results

handbags The Invisible String ebook

The Invisible String ebook

This is a wonderful book for everyone, but since it is really marketed for children, this is how I will comment on this book. This story will help children not to be afraid and sad when someone they are missing, whether it be through death or by distance, are still in their heart. Just the way the story is told any child will feel comforted by the fact that they are always connected by the feelings in their heart to another loved one. This book will help if a pet has died or just went to live somewhere else. If a friend had to move away or if a parent just went to work. I bought it because my sister-in-law is very sick and will not be living to much longer. She has a 6 year old daughter and I thought this book would help to know that her mommy still loves her and that she is still with her in her heart.

Get your The Invisible String ebook Now!

Sabtu, 25 September 2010

Saturdays=Youth

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Saturdays Youth Digital Booklet

This is the most perfect M83 album yet. Compared to Gonzalez's previous ambitious, yet somewhat tiresome When the Dawn Heals Us, Saturdays=Youth is a refinedly concentrated short story of shoegaze/retro bliss. The undeniable melodrama of his fragmented narratives (see "Graveyard Girl") is more digestably sparse in the smaller architecture of the 11-song heartbeat; but the awkward, naive statements effectively serve to enhance the awkward stages of Gonzalez's characters. The vulnerable, diaphanous and hopeful retro sensibility breathes vividly in Gonzalez's soul, and yet his carefully chosen sounds reveal the added shimmer and depth of 21st century techno. His tunes are so thoughtfully derived with historical precision that they work to disarmingly transfigure a pure moment from the 80s (perhaps even more pure...). Moreover, Saturdays=Youth is so obsessed with avoiding even the slightest hint of superfluous ambience and percussion that the effect is slick and masterful.

The artwork says it all: Francis Bacon-ly beautiful, fashion-conscious kiddos brim-full of inexplicable emotions, gathering at the edge of an autumnal wood. The deep colors, pale fires within those fading trees is a testament not to what those kids are feeling, but rather that they are still able to feel at all. It's easy to roll busy eyes and judge a scene like this as the classic Western petri dish of youthful self-obsession--self-fulfilling Goth-mentalities of longing and despair; obstinate druggies replaying irrational fantasies in their growingly incompatible minds; lone dancers, searching aimlessly; unfounded Greco ideals of divine love that serve consumed egos. Even while Gonzalez may be having some fun with certain trendy, filmatic cliches of the past, I think his vision suggests something perhaps more important--it's a photographic warning of the death-nail engaged into the hearts of the eager by a matured society, dulled into oblivion by its perpetually successful ritual of grinding every innate emotion you have into vapor. In these kids' faces gradually appears the fear of creativity's death.

Gonzalez's youths represent the last ceremonies of emotional freedom. They not only inhabit the earth, but apprehend it. They meditate within the private spheres of night, resting on Whitman's bed under the stars of contemplation. They celebrate the loves of their friends, immortalizing their names in harmony. They embrace their dustness like the Beats chasing their Beatrices. They are infused with everything.

But the innumerable stresses will be sent; it will invite itself into the very fabric of their clothing. They'll forget how it all went exactly.

Get your Saturdays Youth Digital Booklet Now!

Jumat, 24 September 2010

Addictive!!!!

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Nordcurrent Ltd 101 in 1 Games

PRO:
-It's tight, durable, and there's no "greasy" feeling like with silicon cases.
-The color has not faded (2+ months so far), and the case is still beautifully glossy.
-The lip around the front face protects the phone/screen great.

CON:
The only thing I would change is the top right corner. The phone is exposed with a rectangular hole in the case for the signal/GPS "antenna". I wish the hole wasn't so freaking big. I'm always scared the phone will drop exactly on that spot and become damaged.

I have a theory. Mercury is also a product of Korea, so I'm guessing that's why the case is so perfectly molded for the S3. I've dropped my phone a couple times already and the thing is still looking brand new. I'm very happy with the purchase, and I've already bought some other colors.

Get your Nordcurrent Ltd 101 in 1 Games Now!

Kamis, 23 September 2010

exactly what I wanted

buy sunglasses Mercury Flexible Samsung Galaxy White

Mercury Flexible Samsung Galaxy White

PRO:
-It's tight, durable, and there's no "greasy" feeling like with silicon cases.
-The color has not faded (2+ months so far), and the case is still beautifully glossy.
-The lip around the front face protects the phone/screen great.

CON:
The only thing I would change is the top right corner. The phone is exposed with a rectangular hole in the case for the signal/GPS "antenna". I wish the hole wasn't so freaking big. I'm always scared the phone will drop exactly on that spot and become damaged.

I have a theory. Mercury is also a product of Korea, so I'm guessing that's why the case is so perfectly molded for the S3. I've dropped my phone a couple times already and the thing is still looking brand new. I'm very happy with the purchase, and I've already bought some other colors.

Get your Mercury Flexible Samsung Galaxy White Now!

Rabu, 22 September 2010

Nice addition to the WOOLiverse

drinkd reviews Cleaning Up story Karma ebook

Cleaning Up story Karma ebook

The sad news that a-ha have decided to throw in the towel after the completion of their current tour is offset by the release of one the greatest albums they've ever produced. I have been a fan of theirs since '86 and though they have released some great and not so great albums this one stands out among the pack. Foot Of The Mountain equals what I consider to be their best album ever...Scoundrel Days. Every song is amazing but it does take a bit of time to get into everything. I have listened to few other albums since its release.

The standout tracks for me are Riding The Crest, Foot Of The Mountain, Mother Nature Goes To Heaven and, oddly enough, Start The Simulator. Others reviewing this album may disagree with my last choice. It's a mesmerizing track and the perfect closer for this album. I can't recommend this album enough if you are a fan of their work. Few bands can say that their 'curtain call' album was as amazing as this one and I hope they recondsider their decision down the road.

Get your Cleaning Up story Karma ebook Now!

Selasa, 21 September 2010

Great Product

buy camera My Brother the Enemy ebook

My Brother the Enemy ebook

The sad news that a-ha have decided to throw in the towel after the completion of their current tour is offset by the release of one the greatest albums they've ever produced. I have been a fan of theirs since '86 and though they have released some great and not so great albums this one stands out among the pack. Foot Of The Mountain equals what I consider to be their best album ever...Scoundrel Days. Every song is amazing but it does take a bit of time to get into everything. I have listened to few other albums since its release.

The standout tracks for me are Riding The Crest, Foot Of The Mountain, Mother Nature Goes To Heaven and, oddly enough, Start The Simulator. Others reviewing this album may disagree with my last choice. It's a mesmerizing track and the perfect closer for this album. I can't recommend this album enough if you are a fan of their work. Few bands can say that their 'curtain call' album was as amazing as this one and I hope they recondsider their decision down the road.

Get your My Brother the Enemy ebook Now!

Senin, 20 September 2010

Great Product

trailer Blackhawk 20 60x60 Spotting Carrying Premium

Blackhawk 20 60x60 Spotting Carrying Premium

The sad news that a-ha have decided to throw in the towel after the completion of their current tour is offset by the release of one the greatest albums they've ever produced. I have been a fan of theirs since '86 and though they have released some great and not so great albums this one stands out among the pack. Foot Of The Mountain equals what I consider to be their best album ever...Scoundrel Days. Every song is amazing but it does take a bit of time to get into everything. I have listened to few other albums since its release.

The standout tracks for me are Riding The Crest, Foot Of The Mountain, Mother Nature Goes To Heaven and, oddly enough, Start The Simulator. Others reviewing this album may disagree with my last choice. It's a mesmerizing track and the perfect closer for this album. I can't recommend this album enough if you are a fan of their work. Few bands can say that their 'curtain call' album was as amazing as this one and I hope they recondsider their decision down the road.

Get your Blackhawk 20 60x60 Spotting Carrying Premium Now!

Minggu, 19 September 2010

Lots of hooks

trailer Foot Mountain A Ha

Foot Mountain A Ha

The sad news that a-ha have decided to throw in the towel after the completion of their current tour is offset by the release of one the greatest albums they've ever produced. I have been a fan of theirs since '86 and though they have released some great and not so great albums this one stands out among the pack. Foot Of The Mountain equals what I consider to be their best album ever...Scoundrel Days. Every song is amazing but it does take a bit of time to get into everything. I have listened to few other albums since its release.

The standout tracks for me are Riding The Crest, Foot Of The Mountain, Mother Nature Goes To Heaven and, oddly enough, Start The Simulator. Others reviewing this album may disagree with my last choice. It's a mesmerizing track and the perfect closer for this album. I can't recommend this album enough if you are a fan of their work. Few bands can say that their 'curtain call' album was as amazing as this one and I hope they recondsider their decision down the road.

Get your Foot Mountain A Ha Now!

Sabtu, 18 September 2010

Excelent exposure

canon powershot review Understanding Exposure 3rd Edition Photographs

Understanding Exposure 3rd Edition Photographs

Awhile back, while reading all the positive reviews of earlier versions of this book, I saw that a new version was soon to be released, and I decided to wait for it. The book was received from Amazon yesterday on the release date!

After quickly leafing through and looking at all the great photos, I decided to start reading. A short while into the book, it occurred to me that "this is one of my favorite books"! And I was only on page 16!

I became something of a photo hobbyist many years ago with a film slr and got back into it a few months ago by buying a decent digital slr. A glance at the table of contents shows that the book covers the basics of exposure: aperture, shutter speed, iso, white balance, lighting, filters. So I'm reviewing the basics, but I think Mr. Peterson's insights would also be valuable to more advanced photographers.

I enjoy looking at the photos and trying to guess what the camera settings were. Mr. Peterson chose some gorgeous photos--by themselves they would be more than worth the price of the book--as examples of exposure principles.

I'm now on page 20, reading some great insights on ISO. Understanding Exposure, 3rd edition is a six-star book! If, when I finish reading it, I decide to subtract stars, I'll let you know. But I'd be very surprised! I'm looking forward to the read and to improving my creative skills.

Get your Understanding Exposure 3rd Edition Photographs Now!

Jumat, 17 September 2010

Great Story with an Interesting Twist

ring review Beneath the Sky ebook

Beneath the Sky ebook

I just finished re-reading Beneath The Sky. As with the first time through, I found myself alternating between tears, huge grins, and moments of held breath, even though this time I'd read it before and knew how it would come out. Dan Thompson creates believable characters, compelling situations, and the kind of complex politics that make such a small world so very very real. His tone is easy to read without being condescending, with enough science to put us in space but not so much that those of us without degrees can't enjoy the story. My only real complaint is that when the last page is past I've become so attached to the characters and so involved in the tale I'm far from ready for it to be over. This is a book I'll re-read many times and can hardly wait for my children to discover on the bookshelf. I look forward with real delight to more of his work becoming available; if it is all as good a read as Beneath The Sky we are in for a real treat. Buy this book! You will not regret it. :)

Get your Beneath the Sky ebook Now!

Kamis, 16 September 2010

No progress in people's gullibility

buy sunglasses Extraordinary Popular Delusions Madness ebook

Extraordinary Popular Delusions Madness ebook

The author tracks historical mass-mistakes with such clarity that it is easy to see the parallels with the world of today.

As has been noted in other reviews, the current stock market overinflation and collectibles craze are clearly paralleled by previous events. A parallel which I haven't seen in other reviews here is the current 'alien invasion/x-files' obsession with the long running belief in alchemy. The same figures play roles.. the naive believer and the swindling fraud, most prominently.

Our current astrology revival is only the latest wave of belief in this ancient 'art' and homeopathy has much in common with 'animal magnetism.'

I think that every young person, every person should read it to gain an appreciation of the tools we have to sort out the sense from the nonsense as well as a historical perspective on how much human nature has not changed in its eagerness to believe in the face of reason.

Get your Extraordinary Popular Delusions Madness ebook Now!

Rabu, 15 September 2010

First choice and only choice

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Xenon Headlight Conversion Kensun 8000K

This is the first time I've ever installed HIDs. Easy to install. Huge difference from the stock halogen bulbs. I installed them in into the projector housing so no adjusting needed. The light shines high enough that you see the road clearly, but low enough that you don't blind people, so works great if you have a projector housing. Took me about 2 hours to install, hardest part was finding a place to ground but it was simple enough. Would've been nice if the wiring harness grounded to the stock harness. I do recommend getting a wiring harness that connects directly to the battery. This way you can avoid flickering if the stock harness does not give enough juice. I've had this for the past month and they're still working great. Will definitely buy from this seller again.

Get your Xenon Headlight Conversion Kensun 8000K Now!

Selasa, 14 September 2010

Beneath a Marble Sky

car stereo review Beneath a Marble Sky ebook

Beneath a Marble Sky ebook

I was lucky enough to see a review of this book online, and upon reading the glowing review, decided to immediately get a copy. I spent most of the weekend reading it, and just finished it a few minutes ago. I was so moved by the book that I decided to write my first review on Amazon.

Simply put, this is an amazing story. I've never been to India, but this novel took me there, and introduced me to the Taj Mahal, which I am now longing to visit. This is a powerful, beautiful story. And the fact that it's based on true events made turning its pages even more enjoyable for me.

Anyone who is a fan of historical fiction (as I am) should read this novel. The author managed to re-create a rich period in history, and did so in a very subtle way.

After finishing this book, I was reminded of how I felt after completing Memoirs of a Geshia. Both books took me somewhere new, and made me cry more than a little.

It's almost impossible for me to be critical of this book. I loved it that much. My only slight disappointment was that there wasn't a map up front.

However, the book is beautiful inside and out, and I'd highly recommend it.

Get your Beneath a Marble Sky ebook Now!

Senin, 13 September 2010

Inspiring

gps review SKY LANTERNS Pack Assorted Colors

SKY LANTERNS Pack Assorted Colors

I read up on these lanterns and was excited about using them for my daughter's 5th birthday party, a Rapunzel theme. We went out to my parents' house because they live on lots of land. I faked my confidence in this product to assume my mom, dad, husband, and the other skeptical adults that these were fine and not a risk to the nearby farmland, woods, or houses. I was secretly very nervous, but all for nothing. They were perfect, and beautiful! I want to do them for all of our birthdays now. It does take at least 2 adults to light each one. One needs to hold the lighter, and the other the lantern. They take a minute or so (which is longer than you think when you're holding these things) to inflate properly. We had one adult hold each lantern and one other adult go person to person to light them. 2 of us then rotated and helped hold them as they inflated. They are bigger than I expected. If you want them to go up simultaneously, you will need multiple lighters.

I totally recommend trying this if you are interested. It is great, and we will be doing it again!

Get your SKY LANTERNS Pack Assorted Colors Now!

Minggu, 12 September 2010

You won't be disappointed

ring review Mens Classic Style Blue Jacket

Mens Classic Style Blue Jacket

Steve Roach's "Dreamtime Return" is the first ambient soundscape album I purchased back in 1988. Unfortunately, I was too young to appreciate its brilliance until my mind could fully realize the true diamond of pure ambience I had "stumbled" upon. Initially, I was attracted to the cover, but failed to realize the timeless harmonies I had acquired, as evidence by its sustained price. Roach was never able to duplicate the timeless, totally agreeable and mystic collection of tracks, all recorded in Australia with naturally made instruments, including the ubiquitous didgeridoo, pleasantly cast against a backdrop of cave echoes, water drops and indescribable, reverbial twangs that only Steve Roach could create.

Included in this massive, 140-minute ageless collection are sounds of the Aborigines whom Roach befriended during his time in Australia recording "Dreamtime Return," and their haunting, yet pleasant vocals burst forth on "Red Twilight with the Old Ones," a track that could never be duplicated with such originality, such respect for the oldest civilization on earth. I've found that the year doesn't matter. I drop the attitude, close the door, put on the headphones with REPEAT ON, and drift off to a time and place from which I sometimes never want to leave. Roach has struck gold with "Dreamtime Return," and its perfectly balanced waveforms are nothing short of theraputic. Stress, impatience, frustration, rage--all negative emotions--completely dissolve with even one uninterrupted session of "Dreamtime Return," either Disc 1 or Disc 2 on its own or in tandem. "Dreamtime Return," in my book, can even cure insomnia with its matchless blend of pure musical frequencies, like dessert for the brain. No other ambient album comes close, except perhaps "Quiet Music," which caught the coattails of "Dreamtime Return", having very similar qualities, yet distinctly different patterns.

But we must be clear on one thing: "Dreamtime Return," or any other album that Steve has produced has nothing to do with "New Age," and would probably be offended at such a label. No. Soundscape is the proper term, if the genre must be pegged, because it is exactly that. Mr. Roach takes his sounds and shapes them in unison with the landscape. No other artist of our time understands his own work better. I'm sure that if I would have somehow missed Roach's recordings, either through neglect or indifference, the quality of my life and well-being would have suffered. "Dreamtime Return" is the pure essence of what ambient soundscapes were meant to be, and it will never leave my collection. It's as good today as it is tomorrow. I feel sad for those listeners who fail to realize that.

Get your Mens Classic Style Blue Jacket Now!

Sabtu, 11 September 2010

Masterful!

drinkd reviews Dreamtime Return

Dreamtime Return

Steve Roach's "Dreamtime Return" is the first ambient soundscape album I purchased back in 1988. Unfortunately, I was too young to appreciate its brilliance until my mind could fully realize the true diamond of pure ambience I had "stumbled" upon. Initially, I was attracted to the cover, but failed to realize the timeless harmonies I had acquired, as evidence by its sustained price. Roach was never able to duplicate the timeless, totally agreeable and mystic collection of tracks, all recorded in Australia with naturally made instruments, including the ubiquitous didgeridoo, pleasantly cast against a backdrop of cave echoes, water drops and indescribable, reverbial twangs that only Steve Roach could create.

Included in this massive, 140-minute ageless collection are sounds of the Aborigines whom Roach befriended during his time in Australia recording "Dreamtime Return," and their haunting, yet pleasant vocals burst forth on "Red Twilight with the Old Ones," a track that could never be duplicated with such originality, such respect for the oldest civilization on earth. I've found that the year doesn't matter. I drop the attitude, close the door, put on the headphones with REPEAT ON, and drift off to a time and place from which I sometimes never want to leave. Roach has struck gold with "Dreamtime Return," and its perfectly balanced waveforms are nothing short of theraputic. Stress, impatience, frustration, rage--all negative emotions--completely dissolve with even one uninterrupted session of "Dreamtime Return," either Disc 1 or Disc 2 on its own or in tandem. "Dreamtime Return," in my book, can even cure insomnia with its matchless blend of pure musical frequencies, like dessert for the brain. No other ambient album comes close, except perhaps "Quiet Music," which caught the coattails of "Dreamtime Return", having very similar qualities, yet distinctly different patterns.

But we must be clear on one thing: "Dreamtime Return," or any other album that Steve has produced has nothing to do with "New Age," and would probably be offended at such a label. No. Soundscape is the proper term, if the genre must be pegged, because it is exactly that. Mr. Roach takes his sounds and shapes them in unison with the landscape. No other artist of our time understands his own work better. I'm sure that if I would have somehow missed Roach's recordings, either through neglect or indifference, the quality of my life and well-being would have suffered. "Dreamtime Return" is the pure essence of what ambient soundscapes were meant to be, and it will never leave my collection. It's as good today as it is tomorrow. I feel sad for those listeners who fail to realize that.

Get your Dreamtime Return Now!

Jumat, 10 September 2010

Pleasant Surprise!!

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Febreze Clips Freshener Vanilla Moonlight

I am extremely sensitive to light when I sleep. Before I had this mask, I would lower the shades over the windows in the next room, close my bedroom door, lower the shades over my own windows, cover the windows again with a black out curtain, shut my eyes, AND put on a sleep mask, and I would lie awake thinking "it's as if i am staring INTO the sun."

No more. The Lewis N. Clark Comfort Eye Mask has several features that really help it get the job of blocking light done. Its most important virtue is the cushion of fabric below the eyes to the sides of the nose. Most sleep masks are held up by my nose such that there's a space on either side. The Lewis N Clark mask can block out 100% of the light there, at least as far as I can tell. Occasionally, I will roll over or something and the tiniest bit of light will come in (still much less than would come in under a regular mask) -- so the mask is not God, but I think we all knew that. Second, the mask wraps around pretty far on the sides of the face to make sure light is blocked from those angles. And finally, unlike other masks that eventually become too loose, the adjustable elastic band on this one lets you tighten the mask to keep every part of it pressed to your face. It can get too tight, but that is of course a sign that you should loosen it, and I find you'll still be in darkness. I assume the band on this mask will eventually weaken, but then you just tighten it! And when it finally gives out altogether, I'll just buy another one. It's great and it's cheap.

My only regret is that I have but two thumbs to put up for this mask.

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Kamis, 09 September 2010

The best scented oil

shoes Patchouly Spiritual Sky Perfume Bottle

Patchouly Spiritual Sky Perfume Bottle

I am extremely sensitive to light when I sleep. Before I had this mask, I would lower the shades over the windows in the next room, close my bedroom door, lower the shades over my own windows, cover the windows again with a black out curtain, shut my eyes, AND put on a sleep mask, and I would lie awake thinking "it's as if i am staring INTO the sun."

No more. The Lewis N. Clark Comfort Eye Mask has several features that really help it get the job of blocking light done. Its most important virtue is the cushion of fabric below the eyes to the sides of the nose. Most sleep masks are held up by my nose such that there's a space on either side. The Lewis N Clark mask can block out 100% of the light there, at least as far as I can tell. Occasionally, I will roll over or something and the tiniest bit of light will come in (still much less than would come in under a regular mask) -- so the mask is not God, but I think we all knew that. Second, the mask wraps around pretty far on the sides of the face to make sure light is blocked from those angles. And finally, unlike other masks that eventually become too loose, the adjustable elastic band on this one lets you tighten the mask to keep every part of it pressed to your face. It can get too tight, but that is of course a sign that you should loosen it, and I find you'll still be in darkness. I assume the band on this mask will eventually weaken, but then you just tighten it! And when it finally gives out altogether, I'll just buy another one. It's great and it's cheap.

My only regret is that I have but two thumbs to put up for this mask.

Get your Patchouly Spiritual Sky Perfume Bottle Now!

Rabu, 08 September 2010

First time for everything!

swimsuits Lewis N Clark Comfort Black

Lewis N Clark Comfort Black

I am extremely sensitive to light when I sleep. Before I had this mask, I would lower the shades over the windows in the next room, close my bedroom door, lower the shades over my own windows, cover the windows again with a black out curtain, shut my eyes, AND put on a sleep mask, and I would lie awake thinking "it's as if i am staring INTO the sun."

No more. The Lewis N. Clark Comfort Eye Mask has several features that really help it get the job of blocking light done. Its most important virtue is the cushion of fabric below the eyes to the sides of the nose. Most sleep masks are held up by my nose such that there's a space on either side. The Lewis N Clark mask can block out 100% of the light there, at least as far as I can tell. Occasionally, I will roll over or something and the tiniest bit of light will come in (still much less than would come in under a regular mask) -- so the mask is not God, but I think we all knew that. Second, the mask wraps around pretty far on the sides of the face to make sure light is blocked from those angles. And finally, unlike other masks that eventually become too loose, the adjustable elastic band on this one lets you tighten the mask to keep every part of it pressed to your face. It can get too tight, but that is of course a sign that you should loosen it, and I find you'll still be in darkness. I assume the band on this mask will eventually weaken, but then you just tighten it! And when it finally gives out altogether, I'll just buy another one. It's great and it's cheap.

My only regret is that I have but two thumbs to put up for this mask.

Get your Lewis N Clark Comfort Black Now!

Selasa, 07 September 2010

Stark Revelations of a By-Gone Era are Revealed

swimsuits reviews Steal My Sunshine ebook

Steal My Sunshine ebook

It all started over an argument about the Christmas tree on the last day of the school holidays during a stinking hot February afternoon in the midst of a Melbourne heat-wave.

Beginning with Hannah's present day narration, we are introduced to this fifteen-year old girl trying to come to terms with the inner turmoil that threatens to overwhelm her as she tries to find her place in the world and her family. Constantly in Sara's firing -line, Hannah is at a loss to understand why the relationship between her mother and older brother, Sam, is so different to hers; why Sam so blatantly attempts to divert their mother's attentions from her; why she is the only one who seems to care so deeply for her grandmother; and what's up with her mother and father!

Arriving at Essie's house, we are introduced to Hannah's eccentric and agoraphobic grandmother, and unreliable narrator, as she plays a trick on her unsuspecting grand-daughter and grand-son, causing a tirade of epic proportions by Sara when she discovers what has taken place. Afterwards, whilst making a cup of tea for Essie, Hannah comes across a hidden letter and, after guiltily reading it, asks Essie about "James". The conversation concludes with Essie whispering the promise of a secret.

Late for an appointment with her best-friend Chloe, Hannah heads off to meet the only friend she has, one who comes from a broken family, her mother having walked out when she was six-years old, never to return. Living with her father and brothers, one of whom Hannah has a crush on, Chloe is mature beyond her years and believes that Hannah's life is a fairy tale compared to hers. Finding herself relating the events of the day to Chloe, when all she wants to do is tell her about the feelings she has for Evan, and looking forward to Tuesday night movies with her dad, Hannah receives a text message from her brother urging her to get home. Arriving at home with a suitcase hindering her entry and a devastating announcement delivered by her parents, her life is thrown into further turmoil as the door slams on possibly the only ray of sunshine in her life.

As we see Hannah dealing with her inner struggles - the possibility of first love, her social ineptness, Chloe's stand-offish attitude towards her and the family drama playing out since her father's departure - her chain-smoking, gin-tippling grandmother's narration begins at Chloe's first visit with Hannah, and we are taken on a "disgraced" fifteen-year old girl's journey from her wealthy family in fog-filled London, aboard a ship headed for Australia and an aunt who declares that she is unable to "save" her, to a convent where she is put to work in the laundry while she awaits the birth of her baby. As Essie relates her painful past, a shocking familial relationship is finally defined, shedding light on Sara's antipathy towards Essie and perhaps the relationship between Hannah and her mother.

A shameful part of Australia's (and many other countries') shadowy past is exposed as Essie's in-laid narrative goes into vivid detail of the harsh treatment that many young "fallen" and "morally endangered" women, unsupported by their families, had to endure at the hands of the Nuns who ran the "Magdalena Laundries/Asylums" as well as the cruelty behind the victims being denied their fundamental rights to love and care for their children by being forced to go through the process of adoption, sometimes with their consent being obtained through forgery or fraud.

These stark revelations of a by-gone era brought a tear to my eye and resonated strongly with me as it brought to mind my own mother's harrowing encounter when I was born to her in the early 1970's in South Africa. Seventeen and unmarried, a nurse at the government hospital where I was born attempted to convince my mom to allow her (the nurse) to adopt me. My mom in no uncertain terms informed her that adoption was not an option that had ever been contemplated, nor would it be considered, and that she had every intention of taking me home, regardless of her personal circumstances. The difference between my mother and Essie was that my mother has a very close-knit family who supported her during her pregnancy and that support would continue with much love in caring for me - after all, my nursery was already waiting for me at home, the cot, the pram, the layette, the christening gown, an assortment of cuddly toys, having already been purchased.

At one of the feeding times when my mom went to the trolley on which the cribs were brought through, she noted that I was not in my usual crib. Beginning to panic, she approached the nurse and informed her that the baby in my crib was not hers. The nurse merely replied that perhaps I had been placed in the wrong crib, but what she hadn't counted on was the fact that an eternal bond had already been forged between my mother and I at my birth, at the very moment when I was laid over my mom's tummy after delivery, and that while breast-feeding, my mother had memorised every one of my facial features, every hair on my head, all ten fingers and ten toes, and even the very smell of me was already deposited into her memory bank. Informing the nurse that she had already checked all the cribs on the trolley and that I was definitely not there, the realisation must have dawned that my mother wasn't just another "ignorant young girl", but one who was most intent on taking her baby home, because she promptly went into the nursery and brought me back in her arms saying that perhaps one of the nursery staff had been working with me and forgotten to put me in the crib for feeding time!

However, the difference is that Essie did not have the support of a family, one which had abandoned her, and nor was she allowed to bond with her baby after the birth. Even after she is reunited with her baby and runs away, she is ambivalent about this motherhood thing. Her story broke my heart, but behind that story is another - one which will have you questioning how often these things happened, long after the last page is turned.

I really enjoyed this novel and found the split narrative and Emily Gale's frequent use of evocative analogies and metaphors - "I was a kid with a balloon and I'd handed it to the wrong person to hold on to. Now it was floating up to the sky and out of sight" - worked well in conveying Hannah's inner teenage angst in a real and effective manner. When she finds herself in a situation where under-age sex is imminent, for a fifteen-year old, she deals with it in quite a mature manner and makes a sound moral choice and, while Essie's deeper story touches briefly on issues of infidelity, incest - "It was me and Dad. Unholy is why" - and lesbianism, it was the broader themes of "forced adoption" and society's attitude towards women in the 1950's to 1970's resulting in the tragic consequences of a decision which should have been hers to make, which enraged me.

Steal My Sunshine is a lovely YA novel with a good moral message behind Hannah's story. Seen through the eyes of a teenage girl whose greatest desire is to belong and be loved, it is also an aching examination of one woman's shameful deception and painful re-living of a time she would rather forget and another woman's inability to forgive past transgressions and, in light of the recent historic national apology given by Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, to thousands of mothers who were forced to give up their babies by enduring these cruel and sometimes illegal approaches by governments, churches and hospitals, it is a timely novel about the oft-called "White Stolen Generation" - one which will strike a chord with many present day Australians.

This is a novel which I feel crosses over between genres and will appeal to a broad range of readers from 15+ through to adults.

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Senin, 06 September 2010

really enjoyed

vacuum cleaner Legend Sky Darts Trilogy ebook

Legend Sky Darts Trilogy ebook

The archipelago that frames the background for this story is reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's Earth Sea Trilogy. The main character, Caspine, shows a strong determination to make her own way in the world, despite unexplainable events, that quickly unfold throughout the tale. There is a fine balance of personal narrative, plots and subplots, with likable characters and just enough description, to support a story line that moves along at a quick pace. One of my favorite quotes in the book that Caspine wrestles with is: "Fate is what befalls us. Destiny is what we're summoned to become. And choice links the two together."

This coming of age story follows in the footsteps of many great tales, Rowling / Riordan / Lewis, but unlike these it feels more personal. I am looking forward to seeing how the trilogy unfolds. As other reviewers have noted the digital copy is in need of proofreading, yet the spirit of the author shines through.

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Minggu, 05 September 2010

Well done and about time!

WEDDING The Bible Epic Miniseries

The Bible Epic Miniseries

We just watched the first part of this series and also an interview w/ the producers( Mark Burnett and wife Roma Downey, who played in the series Touched by an angel), which included additional clips.This series is really well done. It is an overview of the whole bible in less than 10 hours, so they had to leave some stuff out, to make it interesting and develop some characters. We felt ourselves drawn into the story. it is very engaging and the producers have done a great job keeping the thread through it all. I love how they connect all the dots and not just put all the stories next to each other.It starts w/ Noah in the ark, but he tells the story of creation and connects Adams and eves sin w/ the flood.They added their own imaginations to it,for example how Sarah would respond to the sacrifice. I also saw a nice clip of Jesus during the interview and Jesus is portrait as a gentle man w/ authority. Roma gets to play the older mother of Jesus( What's exciting, bec I always loved her as an angel in the Touched by an angel series.)Sure it can be graphic at times, but it also could be worse. It's well worth watching. Can't wait to see the whole series.

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Sabtu, 04 September 2010

Enjoyable for Aviation enthusiasts and their children!

Nail Polish review I Love Airplanes

I Love Airplanes

The Four Corners of the Sky is a very good book to read if you are interested in learning the basic creation story or cosmologies behind many different religions and cultures. The author divides the book into different sections, with related stories in each section which really helps to understand the differences. He talks about a variety of religions, including Maori, Greeks, Egyptians, Incas, Desana Indians, Fon of Africa, and many more. I thought this book was very well written and everything is very straight forward, answering all my questions I had before reading the book. I learned the difference between the various creation stories and now I can explain them to others. I would recommend this book because of how concise the author is with his words and how he keeps the book interesting. At the beginning of each chapter he writes a short paragraph about what you can think about to better understand the story. Overall, great book.

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Jumat, 03 September 2010

Very interesting

Nail Polish review Four Corners Sky Creation Cosmologies

Four Corners Sky Creation Cosmologies

The Four Corners of the Sky is a very good book to read if you are interested in learning the basic creation story or cosmologies behind many different religions and cultures. The author divides the book into different sections, with related stories in each section which really helps to understand the differences. He talks about a variety of religions, including Maori, Greeks, Egyptians, Incas, Desana Indians, Fon of Africa, and many more. I thought this book was very well written and everything is very straight forward, answering all my questions I had before reading the book. I learned the difference between the various creation stories and now I can explain them to others. I would recommend this book because of how concise the author is with his words and how he keeps the book interesting. At the beginning of each chapter he writes a short paragraph about what you can think about to better understand the story. Overall, great book.

Get your Four Corners Sky Creation Cosmologies Now!

Kamis, 02 September 2010

This gun means business!

mills review Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle

Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle

I've had this pellet gun for about five weeks and I have really enjoyed it. I'm not a regular shooter or gun person. I made this purchase to take care of squirrels that cause my two dachshunds and my neighbors dogs to bark incessantly. The squirrels have devoured my apricots, peaches, and pears. I am concerned they could get into my attic and really cause problems.

Once I got the scope sighted in I was amazed at the gun's accuracy. I don't expect pellets to be particularly accurate but at about 20 or 30 yards and hand held I can hit within about half an inch of my target consistently. The trigger has a firm pull and maintaining my target in the cross-hairs of the scope is at times challenging.

The rifle is far from silent especially when shooting supersonic pellets. It sounds more like a 22 long rifle. The subsonic pellets are noticeably quieter.

This gun is quite powerful. It is not a toy. Shooters should always be aware of what may be behind your target. I suspect the pellets have quite a range and could injure someone at considerable distance

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Rabu, 01 September 2010

Danger, Flooded Rivers, Faith and Love

bike trailer review Kichler Lighting 65336 Pendant Brushed

Kichler Lighting 65336 Pendant Brushed

This fast-paced and riveting novel skillfully melds two separate but closely related story lines. Cat Majors, hiding from gang-involved boyfriend Ty, who beat her and left her lying along a Texas Hill Country back road, finds shelter in the back seat of a pickup truck. The next thing she knows she's thrust into the middle of the large and noisy Creekmore family, whose Christian beliefs and lifestyle are completely foreign to her. Cat doesn't hesitate to take advantage of the family's kindness, especially since she finds head of the household Sky immensely attractive. In the meantime, she's unaware that her beloved younger teenage sister, Dena, has embarked on her own wild and dangerous excursion. Dena's best friend Natasha is pregnant. Natasha plans to run away from home when her stepfather threatens to perform an abortion himself if Natasha refuses to have one. Dena and Natasha head to Dena's step-grandparents in the Hill Country and through a variety of events, the teen girls find themselves floating down a dangerously flooded river, dodging police, attacking dogs, hunger, and near rape by a group of drunk young men. Cat and Dena, through separate paths, begin to learn how to open their hearts to God and accept Him into their lives. Despite the serious subject matter, this book is written with humor and sensitivity. I found myself "on the edge of my seat" to the end, wondering if Cat would finally escape her abusive boyfriend and perhaps even find real love, if the younger girls would survive their ordeal on the river, and what Natasha would decide to do about her baby. This book is listed as young adult, but I think most adults would enjoy reading it as well.

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