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The Next Harry Potter–Part 3 of 3

3. The Kingdom series by Cynthia Voigt

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This is an older series from the 1990s, but it’s a beautiful, fantasy-type world without magic, and has been one of my favorite series since high school.  The themes and story lines in the books are geared towards an older Young Adult audience.  The novels are all loosely connected and set in a fictional “Kingdom” and the countries that surround it.  The world is medieval, with kings, earls, puppeteers, and so on.

The first of the series, Jackaroo, has a “Robin Hood” plot involving a heroic figure who steals from the rich to give to the poor.  Although an engaging story, it’s my least favorite in the series.  My two favorites are On Fortune’s Wheel and The Wings of a Falcon.  The first is a typical romance/adventure where girl meets boy, girl falls for boy who doesn’t at first care for her, etc., but it’s not a love easily won, and therein lies the story’s strength.

The Wings of a Falcon involves the quest of a young man looking for peace.  He starts out as a slave imprisoned on an island and breaks free, taking another boy with him.  The book is full of action, some romance, a tragic yet happy ending, and has an epic scope built for the big screen.  With names like Oriel, Griff, and Beryl, it fits nicely into a fantasy genre, but again, without the use of magic as a trope.

The standout here is Voigt’s writing, which is notable because one doesn’t note it while reading.  One can become completely involved in the story, and that is the point.  No ridiculous metaphors (I have to battle this in my own writing), or effusive descriptions, just good, clean storytelling.  Modern YA is plagued by “purple prose” possibly because so many of us are going the self-publishing route, but professional writer that Voigt is, she has none of those problems.

Why this could be the next Harry Potter: The stories in the series can appeal to both teens and adults.  The “Kingdom” world is adaptable to the screen and invites the possibility of many more stories set in the same world.  The settings evoke the romance of nature, from woods, to mountains, to sea.  The heroes/heroines in the stories are sometimes childish due to their age, but they are “young adults,” with the emphasis falling on “adults.”  The Kingdom world is closer in gravity and themes to The Lord of the Rings and the later Harry Potter books, and is also not a true “series” as the novels take place in some cases generations apart.  Still, the tales offer much “scope for the imagination,” as Anne of Green Gables (I’d love to see this series remade!) would say.

Thanks for reading.  –Pixie Beldona

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Hitting-the-Line Interruptions

This one is dangerous, hard to tell. I love my girlfriend, need her, need her desperately; yet I still need my own integrity, my lifelong devotion to my grail, whatever the cost: the more so since I’ve already sacrificed my life for it, my career, my family, my livelihood …
And Bonnie knows it; except she can’t really, not and still live: proud to be an American, a Christian, civilized, human …

Yesterday we were watching Wimbledon: Tsonga beat Federer, Murray beat Lopez, Nadal was beating Fish …

Nadal was wowing the world, hitting the lines, getting to everything, hitting with power, hitting from what had seemed a hard to impossible position … For years I’ve seen Federer as the greatest player of all. The world has come to agree with me. But right now Nadal (and Djokovitch) have been the best. Awesome.

And as I watched Nadal (Fish too playing at his highest level) I had a sunny memory of the moment in my golf game when when I realized that I’d reached a new level of control.

Golf or tennis, it’s similar. First you just try to get the ball over the net, or the ball on the fairway. Then you try to get the ball both over the net and in the legal landing area: within the lines. Then you try to hit the ball farther: drive 180, 190, 200 … still in the fairway.

You hit a lot of balls any damn where before you can control where they go. Well, I got my tennis balls within the lines in my twenties. Then I hit deeper. Then I gained some modicum of control over whether I was hitting the ball back cross court or down the line, to my opponent’s forehand or her backhand …
But I was forty-two before I hit my first golf ball. So: hitting in bounds, hitting to the fairway, hitting it further … all were pretty special. But then one day, playing not at my home course, Lido Beach, Long Island, I was playing in Maryland, on the course my mother had moved onto, and for the first time in my short golf carer I was in the fairway a soft wedge, maybe a gently chipped 8 iron from the green: close enough to see the slope of the green, the Maryland course having a slope, more than did Lido Beach greens … And for the first time in my golf life I thought not just about hitting the ball onto the green, but where on the green to hit it: below the hole, to the left of the hole: hit it so it releases, and rolls toward the hole … Hit it, just … there! just thusly!

I wanted to share this warm memory with my darling Bonnie. We were watching her TV in the day room: between the kitchen and the dining room; not the TV in the bedroom with use for DVDs in the evening. The day room has a pair of daddy and mommy upholstered chairs on either side of a table: for drinks, coffee, snacks … To the left, westward, is Bonnie’s fabulous view of the lake (which I considerably widened) (from like 80 degrees to like 120 degrees, by prunning, by pulling Spanish moss …) Behind the views are also nice, more lake, neighbors … But of course with Wimbleon on we’re concentrating on London, on Nadal …

I moved the daddy chair’s foot stool to Bonnie’s side, so I could confide my joy into her ear and still not miss a play between Fish and Nadal. I talked about the experts’ control of the ball, was just about to extend to my simile about golf, and thereby to my own shinning story: I did get the ball more or less below the green and running toward the hole, for short third stroke, a putt, a birdie, when the network cut for a commercial. Some clown walked the street with a falcon on his wrist-glove, Bonnie, for the Nth time, said the commercial was “stupid,” and got up and left the room.

The first thing I told Bonnie about myself, a year and three quarters ago, when she first invited me to her house (2009), was how I hated being interrupted, how my whole life was a series of interruptions: by the school, by the university, by the army, by the government … by the FBi-judge-jailers … Bonnie saw how it was true, that civilization depends on the authority of the secular forces (or religious forces, no difference anymore) to interrupt fresh perspectives, to substitute yesterday’s rehearsed error for today’s original insight …

And ever since, she too interrupts me! Doesn’t trust what she doesn’t let me complete-the-statement-of enough to let me state it. She too assumes that she can life well enough without what Jesus might have said had we not crucified him to worry about actually hearing it …

A hard way to put it, a self-dramatizing way, yes, I know. But justified, I insist.
The majority are interrupters, a tiny minority are the interrupted.
Tell those doing the interrupting that they’re interrupting and they’ll continue the interruption.
[2012 07 09 Streamlining a bit, tightening up, aglow from Federer’s 7th crown yesterday, watching from the same setting described above, I qualify: everyone gets interrupted, no one likes it. Many had nothing unique or important to say whether they were interrupted or not. That’s of little importance, compared to this: some of those interrupted, perpetually, had crucial things to say. We limit the deck, reduce it, throw away chances as though they were extras: and don’t know it. Old old old old habit.]

The warm thoughts I’d wanted to share about that golf birdie as a first may have ben trivial compared to my offer of an affordable internet in 1970 as an alternative to the monopolies of the interrupters, still: the interrupters can never know what they’re interrupting cause they’re not paying attention! (Or, they are paying attention: to their own privileges, and to nothing else.)

They’re rehearsing their mantra:

I’m safe, I’m safe, I’m safe.

I’m getting away with it. I’m getting away with it …
Away with it.

The question remains, are the monkeys who neither see nor hear (because they have their eyes and ears covered) listening to god? (to Life?) or to the devil? (Death?)

My beloved knows how I relate her to the Mary Magdaline of the old gospel of Mark, the one who had supported Jesus’ ministry, who, upon being told by the angel that “Jesus is risen, go and tell the disciples,” doesn’t: she is afraid, she goes home, she hides.
She’s a dud; but doesn’t the suffering savior need her anyway?! a little female flesh if nothing else.

I wish I could talk clearly about these things and leave my family, my loved ones, out of it. But I can’t. At least I haven’t found a way.

Next session I’ll comment on why I’m putting this link in the Social Epistemology / Homeostasis section. Meantime, reason it out yourself. Of course you’ll have to know my homeostasis theory to do so.

PS Watch out for Judgment. God may introduce documents hitherto suppressed. Then what will the kleptocrats look like?
The dastard at the end of The Constant Gardener: as his memo is read in the cathedral!

2015 10 10 I must double check the half a dozen homeostasis posts:
1) unconscious: the Temple in its naiveté actually believes that if god were heard from they would cooperate, not sabotage.
2) instinctive.

We sabotage our sentience by taboos of imagination, the judge can’t imagine that the guy crucified on his watch would turn out to be god.
Sentience is partial, not total, but the less-than-geniuses imagine themselves to be complete: the species if not the individual.

Homeostasis Menu

About pk

Seems to me that some modicum of honesty is requisite to intelligence. If we look in the mirror and see not kleptocrats but Christians, we’re still in the same old trouble.
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Play Piano Today With Dr. J

Posts Tagged ‘patron

The members of the Music Ministry of our small mission church, St. Bede Episcopal in Forest Grove, Oregon have a vision and goal of not only providing excellence in our worship music today but building on and creating an outstanding music ministry for the future.

With that in mind, we’d like to ask for your patronage – a gift large or small to our upcoming Hymn-a-thon Music Ministry fund raising event on June 7th.  To be a patron of the worship arts at St. Bede Episcopal Church, and help us reach our goal of $4,000, please click here to visit our gofundme site. All contributions will be matched by an anonymous patron.

We thank you for your support, encouragement, and generosity.

Dr. Jeannine Jordan enjoys a varied career as a concert organist, church musician, and teacher.  She and her husband, David, are the creators and performers of two organ and multi-media concert experiences, Bach and Sons and From Sea to Shining Sea.

    • freeonlinemusiclessons: Hey nice blog. I just picked up you RSS FEEDS. Check out my new website, you’ll like it!
    • bhundley1: I'm interested in your elaborating on the "fingering" aspect of practice. Are you a fan of Czerny, for instance, in terms of building up dexterity wi
    • promotionmusic: Thanks for your response. Congratulations to you on the work you are doing in the piano world.


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Archive for June, 2011

It’s Hot Here

My Husband got a new job.  So we packed up and moved half way across the country and returned to our Native Homeland, Texas.  It’s good to be back.  Lots of family, lots of friends, but also lots of heat.  I hate to whine, but it’s hot!  And humid!  Seriously I guess I forgot just how hot it is in Texas.  I had grown used to snow in June.  I was used to early morning training in 30 degree temperatures.  Now I look at the thermometer in my car at 9 am and it reads 86.  I’m afraid to run in it.  Sunday my husband pushed me out the door at 1pm for a quick run.  He promised to meet me at my brother’s house for a dip in the pool at the end of my run.  At mile 2 I was hot, too hot.  I started walking and pumping my fists to make the tingly feeling go away.  Luckily I made it to my brother’s house and drank lots of gatorade and the saltiest chips I could find.  But now. . .I’m even more afraid to get out there and run in this Texas heat.  I know I should just get up early and go, but I hate going alone that early.  Ugh, I guess I need to suck it up, stop whining, and join a class at Run On!.  I also need a goal.  I’m toying with White Rock Lake’s Half Marathon in December, but part of me wants to push me to train for the whole sha-bang, the marathon.  I need Missy and Jenn to live here too, then I’d have running buddies.  Ok, enough whining.  The good news is that Rob signed us up for 24 Hours Fitness and I actually went to the building today and let them finger print me.  Tomorrow I have a date with a treadmill in an air-conditioned room.  I’ll let you know how it goes.


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Green Day
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Coming to theaters Oct. 15

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DOMA Theatre Company's AMERICAN IDIOT RELOADED is officially SOLD OUT... But you are in luck!
New performance dates are NOW AVAILABLE! Get your tickets now as they will sell out FAST:! #LATHTR #IdiotNation #DOMINATION

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Watch Green Day perform at Rock Hall of Fame Induction 2015:

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Watch Green Day perform at 2015 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction on HBO:

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Tré Cool Houndstooth Kit

8x12, 16x16, 16x22 100% Maple shells
Custom Tré Cool Houndstooth Ripple finish

We are excited to announce that the new Idiot Nation Member's only forum has launched! Thank you for the feedback over the last few months as we have worked hard to implement many of the features that were suggested.
So, stop by the new board, meet some of your fellow members, and introduce yourselves!
Don't forget to update your bookmarks and I look forward to getting to know you!

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Thank you to everyone who came out to 924 Gilman last night for the Fire Relief Benefit. Every ticket sold went towards relief funds. Thank you for helping those who were affected.
Thank you to the Gilman for the great homecoming. It's been 22 years! Thanks to all of the familiar faces ...
You can help by donating here:
Amazing photos by Alan Snodgrass
7 Photos - View album

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Ringo Starr and friends at the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame getting ready for the big show. Stay tuned for more!
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This is an official call for inclusion in Stupefying Stories presents the 2013 Campbellian Pre-Reading Anthology. Any individual whose first qualifying sale (at least 3¢/word, for a total of at least $50) was published in 2011 or 2012 is eligible for the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer via the 2013 Hugo ballot, and is accordingly invited to participate in this anthology. Please help us to spread the word!

Note: This is an unpaid, reprint-only anthology. It will be available as a free download, from February 1 through the end of April, 2013... by which point the Hugo and Campbell nominees should be announced. (If for some reason the announcement of nominees is delayed, the anthology will continue to be available until the actual ballot is public knowledge.)

As a special free "awards focus" volume, and given the fact that we've already had quite a bit of interest in participation, we can't pay for these reprints. No one will be compelled to provide material, nor will anyone be shunned/ignored if they choose not to participate; a full list of known, eligible candidates for the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer, and the details of their eligibility, is intended for inclusion in the finished volume, regardless of whether those individuals elect to also supply fiction for the purpose.

However, if you are eligible, and if you were already planning to make any of your work available to the public, please consider allowing us to include a selection of that material as well. You'll be in good company, and there is always the possibility that you will pick up a new reader or two along the way.

Assuming you are currently eligible for the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer, you are invited to supply your qualifying sale (meaning the first for which you received at least 3¢/word, for a total of at least $50), and up to two additional pieces of your fiction that were published in the same year as, or after, your qualifying sale. If your qualifying sale is submitted, it will be the first story presented under your name; if you are supplying additional work, feel free to specify your preferred sequence. If no sequence is specified for the additional work, we'll default to the sequence of publication.

Additional work does not necessarily need to come from qualifying, professional venues. If you feel that your ability is better represented by a semi-pro sale, feel free to include it. If you are the proudest of a story that first appeared on your blog, that's fair game, as long as it appeared after your qualifying sale. Although we would strongly prefer to include as many Campbell-qualifying sales as possible, should the reprint rights for your qualifying sale not be available, or if the qualifying sale is not among your strongest work (meaning you would prefer not to present that particular work, for whatever unspecified reason), you may substitute another piece from the same qualifying period, so that — if you choose — three representative pieces may still be included.

In any case, please restrict yourself to no more than 20K-ish words, split however you feel is best, among no more than three pieces of fiction. Remember, we want everyone to read as many of the included stories as possible; we don't want any single individual to monopolize the content. (If you feel your career is best be represented by a longer novella or an excerpt from a full-length novel, please contact me so that we can determine whether it would be better to bend the length restrictions and include an appropriate portion, or simply include the publication info.)

We are seeking a one-time, non-exclusive right to reprint the material you supply, with a duration sufficient to ensure exposure for, and facilitate the fair evaluation of, as many eligible writers as choose to participate. Whatever you send though, please make sure that your reprint rights are unencumbered. We can only include stories for which you are allowed to assign these reprint rights. If you aren't certain, or if the stories you'd like to include are recent enough that it might be questionable, please check with your original publisher first so we don't step on any toes.

Use the submissions AT vintageseason DOT com address to send material for the 2013 Campbellian Pre-Reading Anthology.

The deadline for inclusion is January 20, 2013.

The firm release date is February 1, 2013... which will give us time to spread the word about participation, and still allow folks five and a half weeks to read before filling out their ballots. Even if you choose not to include your work in this collection, please help spread the word, so that every eligible writer will have the opportunity to be included.
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Posted in design, weekend projects

How To DIY Shiplap

Out with the new, in with the old. Yes, you read that right! It seems that old fads are now all the rage. From fringe to flair and bold and flashy, current home improvement trends are taking a note from fashion and being influenced by the revival of all things vintage.

Shiplap is no exception. Originally, these long panels were utilized in the construction of homes because of their resistance to harsh weather conditions. Oftentimes hidden behind wallpaper and sheetrock, shiplap is considered the equivalent to discovering hardwood flooring underneath carpet. Those who enjoy rustic and farmhouse styling have fallen in love with shiplap. But for the homeowners who aren’t so lucky enough to discover shiplap in their own renovation, it’s easy to replicate the look!

Witty With Wood

There are so many types of material you can use to create a planked wall: fresh cut wood, reclaimed wood and ripped down panels are just a few that stay true to the classic wood look. Depending upon the length and width, wood panels range from $8 to $15 per plank.

Keep in mind that installing planks may require you to remove and reinstall molding, baseboards, outlets etc. so be sure you’re equipped with the following:

  • Your planks of choice
  • Sander with medium-grit paper
  • Miter saw, table saw, circular saw or jigsaw
  • Nail gun and 2 inch brad nails
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Spacers
  • Spackle
  • Painting supplies

Whether your wood was precut or you measured and cut them yourself, give a quick sanding to the edges to smooth out any sharpness. Mark your studs, load up the nail gun, secure some spacers to the wall, level up your first board and get busy!

After the boards are up, you can start spackling, sanding and priming. Be careful to only cover the nail holes and avoid filing in the natural knots in the wood if you want a classic look. When you’re ready to paint, consider going old school and using a brush instead of a roller. There will be many seams, nooks and crannies – which happen to be a brush’s specialty. While you can certainly use a roller, it will leave you with gaps that will have to be filled in with a brush anyway.

Adhesive? Absolutely

If you adore the expression of shiplap but are skeptical of your DIY cred, you can still achieve a wood wall appearance with a stick-and-peel paneling project. Most materials like this cost around $10 to $14 per square foot. This method is equally as pricey, so consider utilizing the panels on an accent wall, mudroom, along a staircase or in the bathroom if you’re looking for a small, but impact touch to make your walls more interesting.

While you don’t need any power equipment, you do need a game plan. Before placing any panels on the wall, arrange them on the floor to be sure the pattern is what you envisioned and the angles are correct. Don’t be afraid to get a little funky and try different designs like chevron or herringbone.

If you want to add a touch of country, try a whitewash effect. You can even paint and then lightly sand certain areas to look more antiquated.

What’s your take on shiplap? Where would you install in in your own home? Or have you just completed the project yourself? Share with us in the comments!

Posted in guides, outdoor innovation

Buying Guide For Driveway Types

Your driveway is probably not at the top of your to-do list, but maybe that’s just because you haven’t been that explorative with it. Just like most aspects of homeownership, there’s more than one way to pave your pathway. Different types of driveway surfaces can boost your curb appeal and give your home the fresh, updated look it craves.

How do you know what’s right for you home? We’ll cover 7 surface styles with average cost, pros and cons to guide you in the right direction.

Concrete is the ‘old reliable’ for most suburban homes. And we can see why: concrete is the longest lasting surface (25-50 years depending on how well built it was and how well it has been maintained), and requires little regular maintenance – just a bit of TLC!

Keep in mind, your typical shade of concrete stains easily. You can opt for a colored finish (see examples of ‘silver’ concrete below) to deter this, but it is usually much more costly. If you reside in a region that experiences ice and snow, you will need to be mindful of which deicer blends you use, as many calcium chloride and calcium magnesium types are corrosive to concrete.

But don’t let this sway you, Snow Joe has an environmentally friendly deicer that guarantees it won’t break down your concrete surfaces. Shop for it here.

Cost: $4 to $10 per square foot. These costs can nearly double, however, if you decide to go with a colored or stamped finish.

The best fit: Concrete works best if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, and don’t mind breaking out the pressure washer (shop the best pressure washers for concrete here) and being considerate with ice melt.

  • Durable
  • Low-maintenance

  • Expensive compared to gravel and asphalt
  • Easily stained (see pressure washers here)
  • Requires deicing with non-corrosive blends (check out our top blend here)
  • Can be dull in appearance

Maintenance: To best ensure long life, it does pay to keep the driveway clean and sealed. A good scrubbing with a hose and stiff brush attachment on your pressure washer will handle regular cleaning, while concrete sealer will add a layer of protection. Sealer should be applied at least once a year, usually in the fall, as an added layer of protection against road salt and harsh winter weather.

Asphalt driveways are a mixture of sand, rock, and asphalt cement. These driveways come in basic black, but they can be stamped with designs for a more high-end appeal. Asphalt is popular surface choice because it is cheap and otherwise performs similar to concrete (lasting 12-35 years depending upon the installation, climate, usage and maintenance). If you are leaning towards this material, know that you will need to perform some annual maintenance, as asphalt is prone to cracking due to its flexible nature.

Cost: $2 to $5 per square foot. This double the cost of gravel, but half what concrete typically runs.

The best fit: Given the lower install expense, asphalt works best if you have a large driveway to cover.

  • Durable
  • Cost-effective
  • Conceals stains

  • Requires immediate action for repair when holes or cracks occur
  • Must be sealed every 2-5 years

Maintenance: Sealer should be applied every 2-5 years. Any cracks or holes will need to be filled rather quickly to prevent further cracking and fractures from spreading.

These kinds of driveways are comprised of loose gravel, typically poured into a barrier to keep the material contained. Gravel can be an aesthetically appealing choice if you have a long, winding driveway with bountiful landscaping. But, because the gravel is unattached, things get shaken up easily.

Plan on replacing the gravel at least every few years and raking it frequently.

Cost: $0.75 to $3 per square foot

The best fit: Rural areas or properties with oversized lawns

  • The most most-effective surface type
  • Reduction of ice build-up in winter months
  • No repair since there is no surface to break

  • Snow removal becomes very difficult
  • Portrays a dirty appearance rather quickly
  • Gravel will need to be replaced every few years (may not be worth it in the long run compared to more expensive applications)

Maintenance: the amount of maintenance largely depends upon how well your base will shed water, as things can get muddy pretty quickly. The gravel will eventually settle or become displaced and need to be replaced every few years. It can be difficult to remove leaves and snow without dispersing the stone onto surrounding lawn.

Brick driveways have a traditional feel and are installed similar to how brick homes are made.  You can choose from standard, clay-colored brick for an old-world feel, or fit right in with modern times by opting for other colors and shapes.

The result adds instant charm to your home (and lasts at least 25 years). Brick is one of the more expensive surfaces, but it is also easy to install yourself if you’re the handy type.

Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, though fancier designs and bricks can drive that cost higher; As low as $5 if you choose to install on your own.

The best fit: Upscale neighborhoods and historical areas

  • Durable
  • Beautiful appeal
  • Low maintenance

  • Costly

Maintenance: The key to a good brick driveway is a well-prepared base. Post-installation, you may need to use a pressure washer to remove any stains, but other than seasonal cleaning, brick driveways do not require much work. Of course if a brick happens to become fractured, it would be wise to replace. After some time, the joints between the bricks may need a little repair you can perform on your own with a sand-topping mortar mix.

Cobblestone (AKA Belgian block) is a perfect choice for those wanting the most durable driveway out there (lasting as long as 100 years!). Cobblestone pavers are made of granite, which is stain resistant, weather resistant and does not crack or split.

What’s even better is that a little wear and tear just adds to the charm and makes this surface more interesting.

If you’re in love with the look, but can’t afford the price tag, consider using cobblestone pavers as a decorative border or inlay.

Cost: $15 to $30 per square foot

The best fit: Upscale neighborhoods and historical areas, especially if you have a short driveway

  • Most durable material
  • Beautiful appeal
  • Virtually zero maintenance

  • Costly

Maintenance: Cobblestone pavers generally don’t require any maintenance. At most, you will need to wash them once a year and do some weeding of any intruders that grow through.

Contrary to your immediate perception, glass driveways aren’t really sheets of glass. They are more like a mosaic of thick tumbled glass that is sealed with resin. Color options are endless, as you can have different hues blended for a custom look. Those who are environmentally conscious will be drawn to this surface, since most manufactures use recycles glass to save it from ending up in the landfill.

installed right, the driveway won’t require much maintenance thanks to the lasting power of resin.

Cost: $8.50 to $18 per square foot

The best fit: Small to average-size driveways

  • Environmentally-friendly
  • Customizable color
  • Low maintenance

  • Specific look may not appeal to other buyers if the property goes up for sale

Maintenance: If installed correctly, glass driveways won’t require much maintenance; resin is long lasting.

Green driveways are another environmentally friendly option. They come in two formats: one is an entire grass surface supported by a plastic base that makes the grass safe for driving on, the other is a grid that is poured from concrete and allows the grass to grow in between.

Both options look great but have one big downside: Unlike other driveways, you’ll have the added worry of keeping the grass alive. This means added costs and maintenance.

Cost: $4.50 to $8 per square foot

The best fit: Areas where grass grows easily (desert landscapes and hot climates may make it harder to maintain)

  • Environmentally friendly
  • Modern appeal

  • Requires regular attention to keep the grass live

Maintenance: While green driveways are a back-to-nature approach, they do get costly when you consider the time and maintenance it will require to keep the grass alive.

Posted in tips + tricks, weekend projects

5 Strategies To Get Your Pantry Organized

The scenario: You’ve mustered the courage to categorize your grocery list items by aisle; after strolling the same store a thousand times, you could shop blindfolded without skipping a beat. You thought the hard work was over after checking out and driving home…

The reality: A challenging game of Tetris is about to begin. You got everything on your list…and more. But now, you have to figure out where you’re going to put everything.

Organizing your pantry and keeping it tidy is a chore you’ll appreciate each day. Avoid buying duplicate items because the originals were hidden, prevent overstuffed closet syndrome and find what you need when you need it. Sound too good to be true? Check out our pro tips below and regain control once and forever.

1. Be A Little Strict

The number one reason your pantry is cluttered is most likely because you’ve got too much stuff. No matter how good the sale is, if you’re buying items you won’t use that same month, save the space for something you will.

2. Take Inventory

There’s nothing more dissatisfying than putting cans away, only to find, hidden behind a wall of soups and sauces, that you already had something you just bought!

Get a clipboard and place it on or near the fridge. Throughout the week, as you or your family members discover you’re running low or are out of something, jot it down! It’s an easy way to begin a grocery list, and you can quickly scan the cabinets and shelves ahead of time to avoid buying duplicates.

3. Bring In Baskets

Speaking of cans, it’s much easier to see your entire assortment of canned goods with a little help from baskets. They can be wicker, wire or clear – the choice is yours, and they’re great for containing like items. You can even find ones with chalkboard tabs and have some fun labeling snacks, spices and whatever else gets a little hectic in your pantry.

4. Picky Placement

Mimicking the stagger and stack strategy of stadium seating in your pantry will help you see everything! Building or buying simple risers allows you to place larger items in the back and smaller items in the front so there’s no crowding or losing track of items.

5. On A Roll

Aluminum foil, wax paper, cling wrap, garbage bags – they all consume large amounts of space. Not anymore. You know those magazine and folder holders that are meant to organize your office? Well they work wonders for containing your non-food kitchen supplies and can easily be mounted on the back of a door or on a wall to free up some shelf space.

And it doesn’t stop here. There’s tons of hacks and ideas for getting organized, and once you have some law and order in your pantry, you’ll see just how much stress has been eliminated.

Posted in guides, tips + tricks

10 Lawn + Garden Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

Soon, spring will be in full swing, and you’ll be looking forward to a host of outdoor projects. It seems that every season, new gadgets make an appearance—and some of us, can get a little addicted to the wow factor highly specialized tools promise.

But before you get carried away, make sure you have the basics. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the many options tools are available in. To make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of the must-have tools all homeowners should own. When buying any tool, think of your specific needs – not only around the lawn and garden, but pertaining to your body as well. Remember that the longer you use a tool, the heavier it will feel. Choose a tool that suits the application you need it for, and won’t wear you out.

Lawn Mower

This one is virtually a no-brainer. Do you have a small lot, or an expansive property? Is the terrain hilly or mostly even? Will you have to maneuver around flowerbeds, pathways or children’s play sets? The size and topography of your lawn is the main factor to consider when beginning your search for a compatible mower. Check out our lawn mower buying guide for more information on finding your mower match!

Trimmer/Weed Whacker

Trimmers and weed whackers are great machines for a fast, easy and effective way to keep your lawn looking its best. They maneuver into those hard to reach areas lawn mowers can’t get at, making quick work of overgrown grass and heavy weeds.

Wheelbarrow/Utility Cart

Make light work of hauling heavy loads around the yard and garden. Wheelbarrows and utility carts are essential for transporting heavy supplies, plants, equipment and tools. Pneumatic spoke tires are great for balancing large loads, and traverse irregular terrain with ease. Put the power of a landscaper’s crew in your cart to lift more, carry more and get loads more work done with less strain and less effort.

Rake Assortment

Rakes come in many different sizes and styles such as leaf, bow, thatch, garden and flat. They apply the concept of the human hand and extend finger dexterity to a bigger scale. Look for rakes with stainless steel blades to ensure your tool will last season after season.

Shovel Assortment

The shovel is one of the most essential tools any homeowner can appreciate. Typically available with either a square or round point blade, a trusty shovel will help you landscape and garden from digging to tilling to planting.

Leaf Blower

Clean up quickly after yard work is complete. Some versatile models can even sweep, shred and mulch leaves, allowing you to recycle waste into usable compost.

Hori Hori Knife

This Japanese inspired tool has long been considered the Swiss army knife of gardening. Hori Hori knives can be used to weed, cut through roots, transplant and divide perennials and even for fishing and hunting applications. The possibilities are endless.

Hedge Clipper

Restore some lawn order to your shrubs, hedges and bushes and keep them from becoming unruly.

Pole Saw

Prune those tougher trees and branches that manual pruners and shears can’t handle.

Handheld Digging Tools

This includes trowels, cultivators, weed extractors and other small tools that assist in maintaining your garden by loosening, lifting, turning soil and removing unwelcome weeds.

Are there any tools we missed?  What are your outdoor tool essentials?  Let us know in the comments below.

Posted in guides, tips + tricks, weekend projects

The Only Spring Cleaning Tool You’ll Ever Need

As spring approaches and winter recedes, it’s time to inspect the exterior of your home and access any improvements you’ll need to make for warmer weather. Patios may show staining, mildew and grime could be creeping up your siding, and windows will need a wash. So while you’re decluttering and dusting your home’s interior, it’s the perfect time to add a few outdoor chores to the checklist!

Outdoor Spring Cleaning List:

  • Wash outside windows
  • Clean outdoor light fixtures
  • Power wash deck
  • Power wash garage doors
  • Power wash siding
  • Clean grill
  • Clean outdoor furniture
  • Wash door frames
  • Clean gutters
  • Clean out trash cans
  • Wash vehicles

If you don’t have one already, a pressure washer is a great investment, as it handles a variety of cleaning tasks with power and ease.

Removing Stains

Driveways, walkways and patios get stained from mud, paint, oil and other solutions – it’s inevitable, mostly because these surfaces see lots of traffic. Many homeowners assume that because concrete is a durable material, that it is impenetrable.

While it does have a great deal of physical resistance, it is weak when it comes to spills. You could spend lots of time bent over, scrubbing with dish detergent, bleach or vinegar. But those fixes aren’t guaranteed to do the trick. Or, you could blast away stains with a pressure washer. It will save your back, get the job done, and it’s pretty fun!

Reviving Surfaces

When it comes to bringing your home back to life after a long winter, nothing beats a good scrub, wash and rinse. But your conventional garden hose doesn’t always cut it. A pressure washer is the quickest way to restore wood, concrete, vinyl and aluminum.

These high-power sprayers are designed to expertly remove stains, dirt, mildew, moss and peeling paint. You name it, you aim it and grime is gone. After you’ve given your deck or patio a nice face lift, you may even find that you don’t have to re-stain, resurface or repaint it.

Pressure Washing Tips + Tricks

If it’s your first time power washing, here are a few guidelines to get you started in model selection and technique.

PSI: Pressure washers are rated by strength, which is measured in Pounds per Square Inch, or PSI for short. A typical garden hose is rated at about 60 PSI. Household use pressure washers range somewhere between 1,500 – 2,000 PSI – anything higher, and you risk accidentally damaging exteriors.

Tips: Wide-spraying fan tips are best for mild, close-range chores such as patio furniture, wooden decking, concrete and driveways. For a more precise spray, a jet stream is better for cleaning out-of-reach areas like siding and gutters.

Detergent: Many units have a detergent tank, so you can add cleaning agents for dirty jobs.

Protection: The force of pressure washers is impressive but also dangerous. Take caution by wearing google to protect your eyes from debris. Don’t aim directly at windows, electrical outlets, gravel or other people.

Polstein’s Picks

1. Sun Joe 1160 PSI Cordless Pressure Washer: Yeah you read that right, cordless. The Sun Joe SPX6000C. gives you the room to roam, courtesy of the powerful onboard, rechargeable 40-Volt EcoSharp lithium ion battery, to take your cleaning tasks on the road – or anywhere power is at a premium. Perfect for the cabin, deck, boat, RV or a host of chores around the house, the innovative, top-loading detachable bucket design fills quickly with fresh water, or can be connected for continuous use with a garden hose.

2. Sun Joe 2030 PSI Electric Pressure Washer: Packed with 1800 watts of pure power, the SPX4001 boasts a 14.5-amp motor generates up to 2030 PSI to demolish every last bit of dirt, grease, gunk and grime. Five Quick-Connect tips allow you to go from intense jet to gentle spray to suit the cleaning task, and the onboard 54.1 fl oz detergent tank lets you dial-in just the right amount of detergent to give your cleaning blast a boost! And don’t forget about the hose reel, which make clean up simple.

spx4001-1_1-13-2017-20-06-373. Sun Joe 1885 PSI Electric Pressure Washer: Packed with 13 Amps of pure cleaning power, SPX2500 delivers a might blast – up to 1885 pounds of pressure per square inch and 1.59 gallons per minute – to demolish every last bit of dirt and get really clean, really fast. Simply twist the adjustable nozzle to go from intense jet to gentle spray and watch Sun Joe make light work of mildew, grease, oil, tar, mud, rust and more!

Sun Joe has many more pressure washers to suit individual cleaning needs, plus a whole array of specialty attachments that make particular tasks much more easier.

Visit Store

Posted in design

Trending Home Designs You Must Try In 2017

The make-it-your-own movement continues to influence home improvement trends, and this year is no different. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite interior updates that can easily be incorporated to personalize any space.

Indoor Gardening

Plants are simple; they have very few basic needs, which makes them gorgeous display pieces in any home setting.

Here’s a tip: don’t limit all your plants to a tiny pot. Lush greenery that flourishes and climbs can fill and enliven any corner.

A little less confident? Mini cacti and succulents create an intriguing still life that can be equally colorful.

Nisaku has a wonderful array of hand garden tools for easy indoor growing maintenance.

Wild Wallpaper

We’ve always adored wallpaper, even when it wasn’t considered “on-trend.” Its ability to portray color, pattern and texture can brighten an entire room, be added as an accent wall, or create a back-splash between bookshelves and cabinetry.

And with the introduction of easily removable options and task-specific tools, the concern that any paper is permanent is a worry of the past.

Marble and geometric impressions are our top print picks.

Copper Accents

Copper is very easy to incorporate into your décor – and the best part is that a little goes a long way!

We love the scintillating effect and bold, but warm elegance copper presents. I’s a clever accent that brings focus into your most lived-in spaces.

Jewel Tones

The rich coloring of precious stones is a trend we’re used to seeing in clothing and accessories. But this year, it’s time to bring them into your living  spaces.

Bold color palettes are surprisingly easy to incorporate and are the perfect inspiration if you’re looking for a big change.

Matte Finishes

Matte will have its moment in 2017, with white, black and grey pastels.

It works because the industrial vibe pairs well with a cool, toned down finish that offsets polished metals and glossy woods.

What trend is your favorite? We want to hear about your DIY plans in the comments!

Posted in how-to's, Uncategorized

DIY Hacks For Reducing Your Winter Heating Bill

The weather outside is frightful, which means there’s a chance your heating bill is as well. With warmer weather still months away,  you’re going to want to keep your heating use in check. Here are some energy-saving strategies to stay toasty without piling on the layers.

Apply Window Film

Shrink wrap is an inexpensive and effective insulation alternative that blocks drafty windows to reduce heat loss by up to 14%.

And if sealed meticulously, you won’t even notice it’s there.

While installing it yourself can be somewhat time consuming, your efforts will not be in vain!

Plastic wrap also reflects the sun’s heat during summer, keeping the house cooler.

Use Your Ceiling Fan

There’s a stigma that fans are only meant to cool, but they can also be utilized to circulate heat. By setting your fan at the lowest speed, the warm air trapped at the ceiling will mix with the cooler air, heating the entire room.

Add Drapes

Floor length curtains can reduce heat loss by 10%. The trick is to close them at night when the sun goes down, and open them during the day so the sunlight can naturally warm your home.

Weatherstrip Door and Window Frames

Using weatherstripping in your home to seal leaks around operable doors and windows can reduce utility bills all year round.

Periodically check the weatherstripping to ensure it’s not worn or torn.

If you can see the light peeking in from underneath your main entry and exit doors, you need to tack on a new strip.

And be sure to always lock your windows for a tighter seal.

For stationary components such as electrical boxes, pipes, cables and gas lines, caulk or expanding foam are acceptable materials to fill in any gaps where air could escape.

Add Insulation

While most attics are well insulated, the access door is usually an afterthought, but if not properly packed, can let warm air escape rapidly.

If the door does not lie perfectly flat, there is even more reason to stop the leak.

Use an adhesive to simply attach the insulation to the attic side of the door, or build a foam box. If you still notice a draft, use a bolt lock for a snug fit.

Invest In New Tech

Programmable thermostats are now cheaper than ever and are a great tool for automatically dialing down the heat when you’re not home.

In fact, most energy experts say it’s a myth that it costs more to reheat a home than to maintain a house in a constant state of warmth.

Smart thermostats even learn your lifestyle and adjust on their own without manual programming. So save away!


text:
Ghosts from the past

CharlesCouglinFather Coughlin knew how to use the radio and he used it to deliver his messages to millions of people. First he supported Roosevelt and the New Deal, but later criticized him because of his relationships with the bankers. I would be curious to interview Charles Edward Coughlin now, in 2015, and to listen from his energetic, mesmerizing voice, what he thinks about the situation in Europe. Another cycle of economic recession, another time of social unrest. An age of barriers, drifting boats, night marches, proclamations.

Father Coughlin was particularly harsh with Jewish bankers, accused of being behind the Russian Revolution, and ended up backing Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini concerning social and political measures against both capitalism and Communism.

At the Congress, he once said, it is time to endorse a candidate ‘who can rise above his party and puts patriotism first. He may be a Democrat or a Republican or whatnot, but we’re through with the sham battle of politicians and now we’re on our own’.Kill the lie

In 2015, in Europe, it is time for important decisions, and the soul of Coughlin’s speeches resonates with our time, ominously, through new politicians. About democracy, and the way it was not able to prevent the great Depression, he said: ‘somebody must be blamed, of course. But those in power always forget to blame themselves. (…) And democracy once more, thinking that it has power within its soul, shall rise up to clap and applaud, because the youth of the land is going abroad to make the world safe for what? Safe for dictatorship? Safe against communism abroad when we have communism at home? Safe from socialism in France when we have socialism in America? Or safe, safe for the international bankers?

I wanted to talk about the last elections in Poland and in Spain, about PEGIDA in Germany and Salvini in Italy, but there will be time for that. Now, I just wanted to hear father Coughlin’s words again, because those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

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text:
Blessings and Butterflies

I read a post once about a friend who had found a butterfly while clearing out books in his attic.  He assumed it was dead, and picked it up gently to have closer look.  As the hibernating butterfly absorbed the warmth of his hand it woke up, ‘came to life’ and then fluttered away.

For some reason I’ve been thinking about that butterfly this week, so I’ve painted one, and here it is, resting on one of my favourite pages of the Bible, ready to flutter into life at any moment.

I’ve always loved the list of spiritual blessings in Ephesians: holiness, blamelessness, love, destiny, adoption, grace, forgiveness, revelation, reconciliation, redemption, hope, and a guaranteed inheritance.  Unshakeable, irrevokable blessings that every single one of us who trusts in Christ can call our own.  Each blessing like an individual butterfly, beautiful alone, but even more wonderful dancing together in a glorious symphony of colour.

A friend once said to me that if only she could get her head around these blessings, if only she could really understand them and appreciate them, she was sure it would change her life forever.  I think she’s right.  Catching a hold of the reality of these truths, having revelation of the impact of these spiritual blessings really would change everything.

It occurs to me that we all have times and seasons when we lose touch with one or more of these ‘butterflies’.  We turn around and our sense of being loved, or having a future, or cleanness, or belonging, or closeness to the Father has disappeared, slipping away quietly in the night. It might even be a while before we notice that it’s gone.

The truth is that these blessings cannot be lost, but our awareness of them, and of their importance, can hibernate for a season and be temporarily ‘lost-to-us’.

Are any of these butterflies sleeping out a winter for you just now?  Have you been distracted, as I so often am, by the smaller, beautiful, but much less important blessings of ministry or gifting? Or has something come in to rob you of one of these truths, chipped away your faith in it until it no longer flies for you?

I believe that today is a great day to go hunting in the attic for butterflies.

A day to remind ourselves of the extraordinary, amazing, unearned and priceless blessings that are ours in Jesus.

And perhaps even the day to pick up those that look like they have died, to hold them in your hand and to ask the Holy Spirit to breathe.

May you be blessed with the waking up of butterflies in your heart today.

For your Journal.

Read through that list (in Ephesians 1), and ask God to highlight to you, in whatever way he can, which of these blessings he would like to bring back to life for you today.  Then think, pray and journal about that blessing: draw pictures, write words, listen to music, sing… do whatever it takes to bring that butterfly back to life.

4 thoughts on “Blessings and Butterflies”

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The Long Dark Winter

© 2013 loniangraphics

“God it’s cold out there, Simon.”

“You say that every time you go out for supplies. Of course it’s cold. How’d you do?”

“The Rogues’ shipment from down south came in early. Paying those mercenaries cost a lot, but I managed some oranges and strawberries this time. How about you?”

“Got enough fuel from Old Man Mayberry to last us a couple more weeks at least. By then, he says he can get us some more.”

Carrie set her groceries down on the counter. It’s only a one room cabin, originally built as an artist’s retreat several miles outside of town, but now Simon and Carrie Mitchell call it home. Being small, it’s easy to heat, which is important, since the overall global temperature averages 3 to 4 degrees F less than it did before the Indian-Pakistani nuclear war five years ago.

It’s a limited “nuclear winter,” not quite like all of the disaster movies of the previous decade, but it will be fifteen years at least before the climate begins to return to pre-war levels.

I wrote this in response to the FFfAW Challenge-Week of May 16, 2017 hosted by Priceless Joy. The idea is to use the photo prompt above to write a piece of flash fiction between 100 and 175 words, with 150 being the ideal. My word count is 174.

When I saw the photo, after turning over a few possibilities in my mind, I settled on the topic of large scale nuclear winter. I first thought that it would be set off on purpose by a madman to counter the effects of climate change.

Then, doing a bit of research, I decided to lessen the effect and scope to show that even a “small” nuclear conflict could do long lasting damage to the environment.

I imagined that traditional government would break down, at least in certain areas, and that mercenaries would provide necessary services for an inflated price.

To read more stories based on the prompt, go to

A Sky Filled With Hope

israel from space

Photo credit: NASA/Barry Wilmore – Israel from space

Each of the 1,038 nanosatellites that launched from the Satish Dhawan space port in India was hardly larger than a milk carton, but these small, inexpensive spacecraft, originally designed at Israel’s Ben-Gurion University, were the hope of mankind.

Avi Salomon and Havah Tobias stood in Mission Control and watched the monitors as the nanosats reached their initial orbits. The “father” of the project, Professor Dan Blumberg, received a remote feed at Ben-Gurion in Beer-Sheva.

“It’s looking very good, Professor.” Tobias spoke into her microphone. “I think we will be successful.”

Continue reading

The Monument

Burhanpur – Image:

The Moti Mahal monument in Burhanpur, India, can be found on the bank of the Pondhari River to the southeast of the village.

Ross Hunter graduated from San Francisco State University four months ago and had been wandering the Asian subcontinent ever since. With a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a $100,000 inheritance from a recently deceased grandfather, Ross felt this was the best way to spend his time.

He especially liked ruins and this one was particularly compelling. He was visiting the palace on a day when there were no other tourists. He’d come by rented motorcycle which was a lot faster than walking and a lot safer than hitchhiking.

He wasn’t seeking anything in particular, which is why it came as such a surprise when he found something, or rather, someone.

Continue reading


text:
Webinar about Rewarded Ads

On JUL 20th, 11:00am CEST, Applift and Adjust are promoting a free webinar about Rewarded Ads, with the title “Unlock App Marketing Success With Rewarded Ads.” The webinar is presented by Chris Godderidge, VP, EMEA & India from AppLift, and by Michael Paxman, Japan & APAC Team Lead Account Management from Adjust.

Say bye bye to Campaign Planner on Bing Ads

Bing Ads is retiring Campaign Planner in favor of Bing Keyword Planner, a similar product of Adwords Keyword Planner. According to Search Engine Land, the Campaign Planner should go offline in the end of July. The Campaign Planner was limited to Canadian, USA and UK markets. With the Keyword planner that limitation does not exist […]


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Romeo and Juliet songs

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Sarah Brayboy

on 20 December 2013

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Transcript of Romeo and Juliet songs

Romeo and Juliet songs
Act 3
In Act 3 Romeo gets into a fight with Tybalt, Juliet's cousin, and gets banned from Verona. Romeo goes to see Juliet and spend one more night with her to say that he will never give up on being with her. "I won't give up on us, even if the skies get rough". So for this act I chose the song "I won't give up"- Jason Mraz
Act 4
In Act 4 Juliet drinks a potion so she can fake death and not have to marry Paris and stay with Romeo. Juliet doesn't want to live without Romeo. "If our love is Tragedy, why are you my remedy?" The song I chose for this act is "Clarity"- Zedd
Act 1
In Act 1 of Romeo & Juliet, Romeo sees that Juliet is the most beautiful girl he has ever seen and knows that he is "Just the girl he is looking for" So the song I chose was "Just the Girl"- The Click 5.
Act 2
In Act 2 Romeo and Juliet confess their love for each other during the balcony scene. Romeo tells Juliet how he will be everything that she needs. "I'll be the greatest man of your life". So for this act I chose the song "I'll Be"-Edwin McCain.
Act 5
In Act 5 Romeo finds Juliet in the tomb and thinks that she is dead so he kills himself so he doesn't have to live without her. Juliet wasn't really dead and woke up and saw Romeo dead so she killed herself. "Love of mine, some day you will die
But I'll be close behind I'll follow you into the dark"
So for this act I chose the song "I will follow you into the dark" -Death Cab for Cutie
Full transcript


text:
Archive | September 2012

Irony of Life

12:39 AM

Friend: I thought about what you said…me going through a pattern repeatedly. You were right.

Me: yeah… listen about that… I am sorry. I should have not said anything.. I hate that about myself at times..

Friend: What do you hate about yourself?

12:40 AM

Me: talking in anthropological or scientific way about emotions and the effect takes away the perceived human unique experience

at times, I forgot how you may take it..

12:41 AM

Friend: unique piece you are.

Me: yeah.. i hate that about myself at times too :P..

12:42 AM

its like then suddenly I feel naked.. as if the social facade I put on has slipped off..

until someone reminds me by their reaction…

like right now you did

Friend: I am guilty.

Me: no you are not..

you are just human

12:43 AM

reacting like one..

which is normal

sometimes I should too..

12:44 AM

Friend: and you are not human? that’s what you mean?

Me: no..

I am as much human.. perhaps more in some way.. 😛

12:45 AM

but most of us are humans in a very socially-constructed way..

like there are things to be said and a way to say them…

for it to feel…right

12:46 AM

even if it may or may not be the truth

..but to me… being human is not JUST about adhering to socially constructed norms and reactions..

12:47 AM

talking about things in a very primal, rational way doesn’t mean that there is no poetry in it…

Friend: i know all this

Me: ..but it doesn’t come that naturally, right?

12:48 AM 😛

Of course, you know all this.. this is nothing new..

Friend: see, things that don’t come to you naturally, you don’t do that.

and things that don’t come to me naturally

I don’t do that

Me: yeah

Friend: its cool right

12:49 AM

Me: but unfortunately the way the world and we human being function…

12:50 AM

your way is more preferable to others than mine..

what seems natural to you, I mean…

12:51 AM

making me be careful about what i should express about what I think and feel by making it sound natural and genuine

even if it may not be it..

which to me is the fascinating thing…

12:52 AM

Friend: fascinating to me too.

12:53 AM

Me: 😉

but don’t get me wrong.. its not like I think I am too different and rest all are same…

the beauty of life is that each of us are different…

12:54 AM

and the mystery is that while we are, I yet feel more different than others in a specific social context

12:55 AM

the funny part is that while at one level people get astonished, shocked, mesmerized or freaked out with the fact that I feel that way…

at another level, they empathize or atleast try with some of it..

as if they feel that way too…

12:56 AM

making the sense of alienation a common collective, shared feeling

…which to me is IRONY OF LIFE

Fighting Faith

This is after a discussion with a friend…

Having faith means the ability to withstand questioning and doubt. Its not wrong to say one has faith. I have faith in the goodness of humanity. Time  and again I have been made to question that faith. Is it a need? Or some truthful insight that I am privileged to perceive?

Those are important questions and should not be ignored ones asked. However, admittance of faith is perhaps the first step. I guess faith is important. Now, I don’t mean faith only in the sense of the God argument. Look at from an extremely religious person point of view, telling them that chanting Hanuman Chalisa would  not really cure them of the fever is basically asking them to put it on faith. Worse, faith on Science. Yes, yes, one can ALWAYS show them what is the biological process behind fever which would imply the way of curing also in a scientific way. But practically speaking, he or she would have to take a lot of fact on the face value, even if there is a notion of presenting more scientific evidence for satisfying their infinite doubt regression, because to know more this way is asking for time and energy. So why ‘waste’ that on this new way of dealing with regular phenomenon? Is not faith easier?

Do not get me wrong. I am not trying to mock or ridicule faith (ok I may be a bit but that’s not the point). I am just questioning the scope of the term itself and what is it become associated with today. There was a time when atheists or doubts had to be careful or ashamed for not having enough ‘insight’. But today it’s the people with living with traditional customs and belief  in a modern rational world that suffer.

They almost admit to their belief and faith in an apologetic way. Not as simple as ‘I-am-sorry-I-believe’ more like ‘I-know-there-is-a-lot-of-hogwash-in-religion-but-I-can’t-help-sense-there-is-some-divine-power-that-I-feel-good-praying-to’. They do not seem to be too moved by the Science vs Religion debate or any philosophical discussion, because to them its not about talking and coming to some consensual agreement like ‘So that’s why there is probably no God’ (They would probably have an impassive expression at this point).

The Question of Arrow of Time

Response for the article ‘Complexity and arrow of time’ by Paul Davies

The second law of Thermodynamics states that Entropy i.e. the degree of disorder, in an isolated system always increases. Since 19th century, philosophers and scientist have been seeing if this applies to the universe leading it to its eventual ‘heat death.

While that was being debated, it was clear that there were abundant examples of entropy in the world – even our existence depends crucially on the state of thermodynamic disequilibrium occasioned by this irreversible heat flow.

The intriguing aspect of this was the arrow of time, which brought out themes of atheism and cosmic pointlessness. This in turn led to reactions of evading or refuting the second law to show that the world will get ‘better’. However, many of theories (such as Stephen Hawking’s backward timeline) were disproven or did not have enough empirical evidence (such as mystical belief in ‘cyclic universe’).

The theory finds it difficult to rigid definition of entropy when the cosmological case of an expanding (and later perhaps contracting) universe is compared to the expansion and contraction of piston-cylinder arrangement where the external force applied is replaced by gravitational field.

Dwelling further into this, scientist like Roger Penrose tried understanding the particular directionality of the arrow of time by checking the universe’s initial and final state of entropy. This leads further to an unsolved question in Physics –

Why did the universe have such low entropy in the past, resulting in the distinction between past and future and the second law of thermodynamics?

While the presence of this improbable initial ‘smooth and low entropy’ state of universe can be seen an evidence of design,  a more plausible explanation for it comes from the field of Quantum cosmology, which uses the concept of  ‘wavefunction of universe’ to discuss the possibility of multiple-universe (as branches of the wavefunction). The wave function as a whole can be completely time-symmetric, but individual branches of the wave function will represent universes with temporal directionality.

The introduction of Parallel dimensions or alternative may solve the problem of origin of the arrow of time. Due to the existence of time-symmetry offered by the wavefunction branches, any observers in these universes will by definition call the low-entropy end of their universe the big bang and the high-entropy end the big crunch.

What interested me in  the section on ‘Arrow of Time’ of the article, was not just the problem of directionality of time but the reaction and explanation of scientist and philosophers, as it has a profound impact on the ‘point of life’ question.

Being fascinated by the concept of time and quantum mechanics since childhood, I sought to read books, listen to people and watch movies that learn as much as could understand.  This article just added to my clarity of the subject.

I was experienced a sense of cognitive dissonance while coming across the Hartle and Gell-Mann multi-verse model as though intellectually it sounds rational enough (not to mention exciting by combining two of my favorite topics – time and quantum physics), I particularly find the concept of parallel universes seemingly far-fetched (and like the cyclical universe theory, no way of proving it).

The lectures of ‘Arrow of Time’ by theoretical physicist Sean Carroll made many points clear too.

However, despite its flaws, this seems to be the closest in giving a concrete explanation of the arrow of time.


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Make your own music

Guitar Hero IV gets a name, official features, and release date-ish – Engadget

The next Guitar Hero has been given a name and that is Guitar Hero IV. But should it still be called Guitar Hero since this version reportedly will include a microphone and a drum kit. Rock band only has 4 drums and a pedal. The GH version will have three drum thingies, a pedal and two “cymbals” bringing the simulation of a real drum possible.

This incarnation of the popular video game series brings a twist by being able to compose your own music as opposed to just rocking to the rhythm of others.

This is just what I need. More stuff to clutter my room. Sigh. And I’m sucker who get it when it comes out.

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Would you buy music on flash media

Wired News – AP News

This report from Wired and the AP says that major record labels are considering selling music on flash media. Will this work? Since vinyl went the way of the dinosaurs and now cd is under the same threat. DVD music didn’t actually pan out so why should flash media be any different.

It should work. Sort of, for the technically challenged and music players should provide players for this at a much cheaper price tag. My only fear is reliability. I’m still apprehensive of relying on flash memory for anything I want to keep. Not to mention I wouldn’t want to accidentally delete the music that I paid for without any means to get it back.

I think this could work as an extension of the digital medium. Saying if you want a hard copy mailed to you or a hard copy purchased in the store this should work. But I wouldn’t expect any big profits coming from this anytime soon.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Nominated for Outstanding Java Spec Lead

I have been nominated (again!) for the "Outstanding Spec Lead" award that is presented by the Java Community Process (JCP), the organization that oversees the evolution of the Java language and platform. The JCP asked me to reflect on my co-leadership (with Alex Buckley of Oracle) of JSR 308, which extends Java's annotation system. Here is what I wrote.

JSR 308 (Type Annotations) has the ambitious goal of changing the Java language.  It provides a platform for developers to express and verify correctness and security properties that currently remain implicit, or are documented and checked in error-prone and ad-hoc ways.  As with any language change, it must integrate smoothly with existing features and tools.  These goals required meticulous and sustained effort.  Here are some principles that guided our work.

Don't give up, despite any adversity.  I first implemented a pluggable type system for Java in 2002, over 10 years ago.  I pitched the idea of expanding the Java programming language to Sun in 2004.  JSR 308 was formed in 2006.  And the feature will finally appear in Java 8, in 2013.  Related to not giving up, don't get started unless you really believe in the goal.  Only passion will give you the stamina for the long haul.  It's worth it!

Get help from others who will help you do great work.  In a sense it's unfair to offer an award to just one person such as me.  I have been tremendously helped by many people, notably Alex Buckley and Werner Dietl, but also the JSR 308 Expert Group, Mahmood Ali, Jonathan Gibbons, Brian Goetz, Doug Lea, Matt Papi, and many others (too many to list them all here).  I thank them all for their significant contributions.  The real winners will be Java programmers.

Run your project transparently, in the open.  This is the best way to get lots of valuable feedback.  Your passion will help you to withstand the criticism that is inevitable in an open project when not everyone's desires can be met.  Be straightforward in admitting this, and offer explanations and principles that explain the reasoning.  JSR 308's mailing lists, FAQs, etc. are linked from

Balance innovation and risk.  Innovative ideas that change how developers work often come from academic research.  This was the case for the type systems that motivated JSR 308.  But, the motivation must come from real problems that arise in practice, during developers' daily lives.  JSR 308 omitted many features requested by academics because they have not yet been sufficiently tested in the field.

Work fast to meet product deadlines, but don't succumb to pressure to cut corners.  It's better to seek a cleaner solution than to saddle Java programmers with an ugly design forever.  You will end up with something, like JSR 308, that you can be proud of.

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February Desktop

Happy February! This month is full of love, laughter, and the best part? It’s usually the beginning of the fade out of horrible weather. Yay! We know this month can also be full of non stop pink and hearts everywhere. And while the Promoworx team love Valentine’s Day we also realise you may not want cupid taking over your desktop screen for the whole month. So this month we’ve decided to do a desktop that is still a little romantic, but without big pink bears holding love hearts.

February 1920 x 1200

Our desktop screens are available in 4 sizes:

Desktop 1280 x 720 | Desktop 1920 x 1200

Iphone 4 | Iphone 5

iPad | iPad mini

We have a new one every month, and each contains a handy little calendar. So check back at the beginning of every month for a new design and a new calendar!

Promoworx Team

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TS3W 2015-02-27 00-01-31-46

Hiko had considered showering and changing, but he was too curious. The moment he saw the new girl walking along with Abe Sosa he had decided that he was going to speak with her. If nothing else he needed to say his peace and warn her against the guy. Having Kyo arrive at his room and specifically ask him to speak with her got his interest perked. What could it be that had Kyo so on edge? Kyo was one of those guys that never got worked up over anything. In fact, Hiko had never seen the brother of his father lose his cool even once. Even as Hiko refused to call him Uncle Kyo, the young man took it all in stride. If he had the ability to get worked up, Hiko had never seen it. That alone made his request worth the attention of Hiko Kari.

When he arrived at her room he knocked several times on the door only for there to be no reply. He could hear her moving around and realized when he peeked in the window that she was purposely ignoring him. Grumbling he moved to bang on the door a bit harder. When she finally answered it was clear she was annoyed, “Don’t you answer the door when people knock?”

“I was unaware that it was a requirement.”

“It isn’t. Just common courtesy.”

Her lips pursed as she turned away moving quickly toward the easel. The fact that she left the door opened told Hiko that it was alright for him to step inside. Her room was well put together for a girl that had just moved in which said plenty about the type of person she was, “You are a lot stockier up close.”

Hiko choked as he closed the door a bit more forcefully than he intended, “That is rude. I am not fat.”

“I never said you were.” She did not entirely seem to Hiko to be invested in the conversation as she painted and worse yet he was already on the defensive. He hated being called stocky.

“Sure as hell what it sounded like.”

“Is your build a sensitive subject?” Frowning was the only response he could manage. His father called his build sturdy, but it always seemed more like an insult than a compliment. She had stopped painting long enough to glance over her shoulder at him, “I am sure you have plenty of girls beating down your door so this will probably not mean anything to you, but I like your build. It is very masculine. Rugged and strong; It is a good form.”

Certain that she was playing some sort of head game with him he stared at her quietly for a time.

TS3W 2015-02-27 00-30-00-69

“Are you just going to stand there or introduce yourself?”

His mind played over her words from the start of their conversation as he tried to figure out how it was she had put him on edge and changed the direction of the conversation he had intended to have, “Hiko Kari.”

“So, you are named after the Commander of the Ruthlbahdo.”

“I was hoping these paintings were a project for a class and not you being into some traditional, historical, bullshit. I see I was wrong.”

“What is wrong with tradition and history?”

She laughed softly as she stopped painting turning to face him, “Someone that has tradition within their life usually resents it to varying degrees while those that do not are envious. Hiko is a good name and what it represents to Aslann is the strength of the mighty Commander of the Ruthlbahdo that stood steadfast for his nation when all others were abandoning it. If history is any indication he cared little for tradition as well, but he used his skills to raise Aslann above all other nations. Isn’t that a worthy name? Mine is Tationy, meaning exiled. Never wanted and always a stain to hide away where others will never see it. Our names, don’t you think they define us?”

TS3W 2015-02-27 00-50-55-13

Hiko made note that she was articulate and knowledgeable. The sad fact, she was smarter than he was. He was not even certain where to begin in responding. Someone like Semei or Kyo would have had an answer for her right away, but instead he just stood there like some big dumb jock. When he finally had an answer he met her gaze only to realize she did not really expect one from him. Her steely eyes made his entire body tense. It was the same look his father gave him. Inwardly he thought, “How dare this bitch look down on me.” He was bound and determined not to allow her an opportunity to win. He came here to find out about Sosa. Looking away he stared at the paintings behind her. “Is that what you like? Warriors bred for battle. Some sort of knight in shining armor, live by some sort of code, bullshit?”

“In historical Aslann there were no knights in shining armor. Men did what they wanted. Women, except for clans that were led by a matriarch were generally without any rights. Many of those men did not live by any code of honor at least none that would be recognized as such. Killing is killing regardless of your reasons and it was not uncommon for men of that era to have slaves and to mistreat women. There is nothing to romanticize about that period of time. However, seeing you are asking what my type is I shall give you an answer. I like men not afraid to go after what they want. I like men that do not make promises they cannot keep or that they do not intend on keeping. I like men that look at only me and see no others. Everything else is taken one day at a time.”

What was it about her eyes? As she spoke he realized he was staring rather blatantly, “Like Sosa?”

TS3W 2015-02-27 01-05-21-73

The fact that she had looked away and began moving toward the other side of the room, seemed a victory in Hiko’s book after all he got her to tense even though it was subtle and brief. He was not certain when he turned their conversation into some sort of contest of getting under each other’s skin, but he was back in the lead as far as he was concerned. “Is this what you are after?” He did not understand her question as he turned to face her, “You and the resident adviser fishing for information about me and Abe. Did Kyo Kari send you here? Are you his dog of war? If you have something you want to ask, simply ask it. If I do not wish to respond I will tell you where you can stick it Hiko Kari and send you on your way. I have little time for games. If you are only here because your master commanded you…”

Each word she spoke angered him. Talking down to him as though he were someone’s pet. Had he thought about it before he spoke he might have bit his tongue, “Shut your mouth. You know nothing about me.” That stare. Those eyes. Why did that look of hers get under his skin so much? His lips pursed as he bowed his head. “I didn’t come here to grill you about Sosa, just to warn you against him. The guy is shit. He treats people like toilet paper. Kyo is just worried, but I intended to speak with you regardless of him asking me.”

“I know all about Abe and the type of person he is. I do not need you or Kyo Kari to protect me. I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself. I would like to think it is just misfortune that he and I are in the same place, unfortunately that is not the case. This situation is because of our parents. Tell the resident adviser not to worry about it. As long as people do not interfere, Abe will behave himself.”

“Sosa doesn’t know how to behave himself.”

“He will for a time if it will secure what he wants.”

Hiko considered her words, “So, you are his girl?”

“He thinks so.”

Wrapping his mind around her words proved to be difficult. She didn’t exactly look like she would be the type of girl that Abe Sosa would invest time and energy. Tationy looked like a cute boy. She wore baggy clothes, those big black glasses which at this moment she did not have on, and her hair was messy and short, “I find it hard to believe that Abe Sosa is interested in…” His words trailed off as she squinted at him. “I mean…”

“Please, stick your foot right in your mouth Hiko Kari.”

TS3W 2015-02-27 18-34-22-83

He wasn’t trying to start a fight, but it would seem that he was not entirely capable of talking with girls like Tationy. The ones that lacked intelligence he could simply spin a basketball on one finger and they would ‘ooh and ahh’  as though he did something amazing. Admittedly, he always thought of girls as simple creatures that lacked any benefits or potential for him to invest his time. This one put him on edge, but it was not only that. Anything he said, she countered and the fact that she had not bothered to dumb down the conversation for him did not go unnoticed which was all the more reason he was frustrated because he felt like he was incapable of keeping her pace.  “I am trying to say you are not slutty. The girls I usually see him with are cheerleaders or popular girls. The ones flaunting themselves about. You don’t really come off like that.”

“How exactly do I come off?”

“I don’t know. You sort of dress like you do not give a shit. You talk like you are superior.” What he had wanted to say was that the chip on her shoulder seemed bigger than the one he had. Kyo was right, it was exhausting dealing with someone just like him. “Look, I just wanted to tell you to stay away from Abe. He is trouble, but seeing you already know that I suppose me being here is unnecessary.” Hiko was not about to give her an opportunity to respond as he disappeared from her room and spent the remainder of the night tossing and turning as he thought about the encounter. It was not as though anything significant happened, but any time he closed his eyes hers would appear.

TS3W 2015-02-27 20-53-37-08

He slept his way through class and at lunch he blew off both Kuro and Sadamitsu as he found his way to the sophomore floor. He asked around and most people had no idea who she was, but eventually he found a girl that directed him toward one of the classrooms. There she was sleeping. Grabbing a chair, he took a seat facing her. Every now and again she would open her eyes and then close them again which told him she was not entirely sleeping, but she had not acknowledged he was there until the fifth time of opening her sleepy eyes, “What are you doing here?”

He ignored the question, “Don’t you eat lunch?”

“It’s lunch time?”

“What is left of it.” He paused a moment as he took in her presence. Her eyes closed again as she stifled a yawn, “Do you always sleep during lunch?”

“I hope it is not your intention to lecture me.”

“No, I hadn’t planned on it. Just curious is all.” His first encounter with her he was certain she was as smart as Semei and Kyo, maybe even smarter, but here she was sleeping during lunch and it was fairly obvious she was probably doing it in class as well with how tired she seemed. He told himself not to jump to conclusions though. She did not offer any explanation which annoyed him, but it was not entirely unexpected.  “Come on, let’s get some lunch.”

Her eyes finally opened again as she peered up at him, “Why would I eat lunch with you?”

“Why, because I told you to. That is what you like right? You like it when someone goes after what they want.”

She wrinkled her nose, “You don’t want me though. If it is your intention to use yourself as a means to keep a distance between myself and Abe, why bother?”

TS3W 2015-02-27 21-16-50-80

He frowned as he reached out and grabbed her hand, “Come on already. Neither of us has all day.”

She sighed as she stood, “What is the point of all of this, really? Do you have a hard-on for Abe or something? If you want to piss him off you really do not have to use me to do it.”

Yanking lightly on her hand, “I said come on.” She had practically lost her balance and the soft little protest she made almost seemed girlish as he dragged her through the halls. There were many lookie loo’s watching as she protested along the way. He had no doubts that single action would find its way back to Abe though it was hardly his intention.

There came a point as they moved through the halls that she had stopped protesting and simply walked with him. He could tell that her body had relaxed because he was no longer forced to drag her along though she offered nothing in the way of conversation. They had stopped briefly at the lunch room, but only got a couple of sodas and a bag of chips before making their way to the only spot he felt comfortable eating.

TS3W 2015-02-27 22-00-03-20

With her sitting on the floor he would shoot hoops as he tried to figure out how it went from him going to see her to talk about Abe again to him dragging her through the hallways. He considered that she might be right that he was simply using her as a means to get under Abe’s skin, but it was not as though he went out of his way to get into scuffles with the guy. He didn’t even think about him unless he was directly in his field of view. He was frustrated again and more than a little annoyed with himself.

“So, is this where you take your girlfriends?”

Her question forced him to turn and as he stood staring at her he tossed the ball repeatedly in the air, “Don’t have one and if I did I would hope she would be happy just being with me. Location should not matter. Now your turn, what is the story between you and Abe?”

“The story huh. Why are you so interested?” After he thought about it last night, he was really not sure. He had said his peace, told her she should stay away from Abe, but by the time lunchtime came around he was more determined to keep the two apart. “Do you come to the rescue of all of the girls in Abe’s life?”

“No, you are the first.”

“Do I look like the type of girl that needs a guy to take care of me?”

“Are you this way with every guy trying to help you.”

TS3W 2015-02-27 22-28-28-23

She noticeably sighed, “Help huh? That is all guys ever want to do. Play the knight in shining armor. If I wanted that type of guy in my life I could throw a stone and hit a hundred of them. I really do not need you protecting me and I never asked for your help.”

TS3W 2015-02-27 23-01-32-35

The ball dropped as he took several quick steps in her direction, finding a spot facing her. For a time he simply stared as he considered his words, “How about a king?”

“A king?”

“You said you do not need a knight in shining armor, which suggest you think yourself better than a lowly knight. So, if you act like you talk you probably think of yourself as a queen. Would you be willing to let a king help you?”

“Pretty cocky to think yourself a king, Hiko Kari.”

“Someday I intend to be the iron-fist of the Kari. Destroy tradition and bring them into a modern era. Right now, I have little control over anything because of my father. He won’t always be in power though. Maybe what you need is a strong hand and a man capable of standing at your side. Why don’t you tell me what happened with Abe?”

“Asking such a question and receiving an answer means you cannot pretend you did not hear it. You and I, we just met. Hardly an appropriate conversation to be held between strangers.”

“So, let’s change that.”

“Change that? What are you trying to do become my new BFF?”

Was that what he was trying to do? It was a good question, though certainly not one he could answer. He kicked himself, he had no idea what he was doing and felt foolish because truthfully he was just winging it. He told himself his intent was to find out what happened with Abe and once again warn her away from him, but even after he repeated that to himself a hundred times he knew it was not true. Those eyes had taken hold of him so violently that he was not able to simply walk away. It annoyed him and the fact that he could not articulate his feelings and motivations was frustrating for him.

Unfortunately, their conversation was abruptly interrupted as the first bell sounded letting them know that there was only ten minutes left for lunch.

TS3W 2015-02-28 21-10-49-69

Hiko had tried to catch up with her again after class, but she managed to avoid him. He was not surprised. It was clear Abe was a topic she did not want to discuss, but more importantly she seemed as though she wanted to keep her distance from anyone and everyone. By the time his day was over his mind was still focused on her.

“Another practice and no Agito,” Sadamitsu responded as he laid upon the floor. “Seems our fifth man has better things to do.”

Kuro spoke up, “Coach intends to talk with him. With our weak bench even if the four of us carry his replacement, there is no guarantee we will see our way to finals.”

“A waste of a year if that is the case,” Semei added as he did the extra shooting practice he always ‘assigned’ himself after regular practice was finished.

He was not really listening as the three of them talked back and forth about the state of the team.

“Frustrating,” Sadamistu said with a groan. “Let’s discuss something less annoying.”

TS3W 2015-02-28 21-46-13-81

Hiko suddenly felt the eyes of Kuro shift upon him, “How about we talk about Hiko’s girlfriend.”

“I like that idea. Let’s discuss that,” Sadamistu responded.

“You two are suddenly pissing me off.”

Kuro spoke, “Getting mad at us when you were the one that blew off lunch today. The two of us came here to check on you. Imagine our surprise when we saw you sitting cozily with that little redheaded girl.”

“It wasn’t like that.”

“Ohh? So, you are not interested then? In that case, I wonder if she likes Ishi boys.”

“Don’t even joke.”

“I am being quite serious or are you trying to say that this Ishi is too lowly for someone like her?”

Hiko grumbled under his breath, “Fine you win, she is my girlfriend.” Tationy wasn’t really his girlfriend, but he knew Kuro well enough that he would not let it go until he admitted she was.

Sighing Sadamitsu spoke up, “I am so jealous. I hear those nerdy girls are wild in bed.”

Choking Hiko tried to protest, “Don’t talk about her like that.”

Smiling Kuro responded, “Ohh, seems she is more than just a girlfriend if you are defensive.”

Resigning himself to the fate of being raged on by his friends Hiko stood and began to walk away, “Some days I really hate you two.”

To Be Continued