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What does your company’s culture have to do with your brand?

Everything, says Kristoffer “KC” Carter. After helping build an award-winning culture at the ad tech company Centro for nine years, Carter doubled down on the idea of culture. Now he’s building Camelot Culture Group to spread the word that meaningful work and mindful culture drive business results.

I talked to Carter to find out how leaders can create a healthy, authentic culture without over-engineering it, promote the culture internally to motivate and externally to recruit, and strengthen a culture even during challenging times.

When did you first realize the importance of an organization’s culture?

I think when any of us accept an offer letter, we realize the importance of culture. We need to feel like we can belong, but we also need to feel the culture can help us grow. I've been lucky to build my career in companies that really worked hard on creating empowering and deeply connected company culture.

It didn't occur to me how important having a strong culture was until the business faced serious challenges. Back in 2008 and 2009, the economic downturn was putting a freeze on advertising budgets. Centro needed to operate on razor-thin margins to pay our publishers. We had reserves of belief in our mission and our dedication to one another to help us navigate those rough spots.

You helped grow Centro from 44 to 700 employees while winning awards for workplace culture. When companies are growing quickly, what should they know about building and maintaining an intentional culture?

Intentional culture is the key.

Creating consensus around the organization's core values is the first step. They can't just be vague platitudes though. All companies should pursue great customer service, and probably most companies say they want their people to be happy. If your values can be placed beneath a picture of a soaring eagle in a waiting room, you probably need to go deeper. The founder and their core team should dive deep into what's not only important to them right now, but what's going to keep them inspired in the future, as they navigate the ups and downs.

You're getting warm when your organization’s values challenge every contributor to become a better person. Creating jobs that have the added benefit of personal transformation is highly intentional organizational design. I grew as a person inside companies with values like self-improvement, humility and integrity.

Maintenance of an intentional culture becomes much more demanding as you grow. The rapid-growth teams I work with experience a constant tension between "who we were" and "who we need to be today." Continually revisiting your values is key.

What are the implications when a company doesn’t set an intentional culture? How critical is culture to retain people?

If you let your culture evolve organically, the demands of the business will set the culture. That almost always results in a workplace that feels like a grindhouse. When people lose their sense of meaning and purpose and are only there to fill a seat, guided by the demands of the business, you see constant turnover.

Millennials highly value meaning in their work. Setting key values in an authentic, intentional way is really important to keep them.

What’s one way leaders can drive culture?

Something simple I recommend to any company or team is creating a communication policy. If 80 to 95 percent of your communication is handled digitally, how you frame those communications has a major impact on the overall climate inside the organization.

At Centro, the founder’s guidance was simple and grounded in common sense. One of the guidelines: Communication must always include a proper greeting. If you wouldn't blurt orders to your colleagues, you shouldn't email that way.

Instead of just mandating rules, frame the “why” behind the policy. Millennials especially don’t want mandates, so give them best practices to grease the wheels in a really positive way. The goal is to be a great person first. Providing standards for how we communicate helps employees build relationships with clients and co-workers, not just close deals and get stuff done.

How are an organization’s employee culture and external brand related? How does one affect the other?

In a perfect world, the company's external brand and internal culture are consistent. Most companies want to appear easy to work with by their customers. But tools and processes are only part of that. Customer service is hugely impacted by the health of the internal culture. Cultures of strong interdependence, empathy and shared vision are naturally going to provide excellent service.

Companies that are winning are creating authentic and intentional cultures. Apple always comes to mind for me. Steve Jobs’ leadership was around three brand pillars: passion, simplicity and focus. When you think about everything Apple does, you see those three things. Everyone at Apple adheres to those pillars in their product design. When I've visited their Infinite Loop headquarters, you can feel that as you walk the campus. People are intensely driven, and are looking forward to their next meeting so they can create more amazing stuff.

What are the misconceptions you hear about company culture?

The two biggest misconceptions are that creating a remarkable culture is easy, or only a function of HR. Nothing so highly intentional can be simple to implement, let alone sustain. It takes daily conversations to design and scale it.

When people set it and forget it, things get weird! HR can shepherd the culture and enforce some of its attributes, but they certainly can't create it. Everyone throughout the organization needs to feel empowered to influence it.

What advice do you give leaders who want to change their company’s culture, or align it more closely with their brand?

Look for ways to insert your culture into daily habits and practices. Make facilitation easy and comfortable. Move your culture into the lives of your employees, instead of just a poster on the wall.

Here’s a great example. I recently worked with a fabulous building supplier on my home renovation, Famous Supply. Every employee has a bifold card in their wallet: “40 Famous Ways of Doing Business.” They start every single meeting (with co-workers, customers or vendors) with a couple of minutes reflecting on their theme of the week about culture. It’s a daily practice, and it’s not cheesy or forced.

We all want to be ambassadors of something great. We want to be people who emanate positive values and virtues. I worked hard to integrate Centro’s values into our training and development process for salespeople. People wanted those salespeople at events, because they brought positive energy. They affected the weather of any room they walked into.

Antenna is a leader in delivering top marketing professionals to corporations of all sizes for project-based consulting, interim leadership assignments and contract staffing engagements. With headquarters in Minneapolis, Antenna draws from its private community of experienced marketing talent to help clients balance the flexibility and expertise modern marketing organizations demand. Contact Antenna for a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your marketing and resource challenges.


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By | December 28, 2018

So considering my previous entry fared as expected with not even Shruti coming by; I think its a good point for me to start with. I was taken aback when someone recently started an email thread on a very old google group from my yesteryear’s called the Blog’a’loreans. This was the time I was in Bangalore and used to write, consistently if I may. We since then have moved over to a Whats App group and that is a dead group now. How cool is this? Whats App, I feel, is the place where people go and kill themselves. They just stop existing. Its like they have ticked a box and that’s it. Stay in the group so that it gives you some sense of pseudo inclusiveness.

I’m traveling again. I was in Bangalore last month for 4 days. Met some people I dearly love and also some I really don’t care about. Overall, it was a successful trip. That being said I spent a bomb since it was an impulse decision to move out during a 4 day break at work. This trip was ideally planned for Kerala only however its been a while since I’ve been to the place that made me who I am. Jai Maharashtra!! With all my heart and soul, I do love that land. So many people that I would love to meet again. I am meeting some of them and its planned out quite well and I am hoping to stick to agenda.

I will be in Pune between 3rd to 7th January 2019. I initially wanted to include some work related meet ups but then decided to keep it purely a personal trip. I’m meeting school friends and we’re going to be out and about. I cannot believe that I’m going to Pune and I’m having to live in a hotel though. Its my place ffs however dad’s retired and although I do have options those are complicated in nature and I am someone who avoids confrontations vehemently. I have friends who pledged their heart and soul and now are nobodies and those who refuse to accept my being, those who look at messages that were sent and do not reply, those who are just plain heartless! Its cool though, I’m happy to just note that they are all still around.

The plan as of now is to go to this place called Guhaghar which is a six hour drive from Pune and I’ll have Unni, Nishant and Deepak going with me. These are guys I know since forever. School; as in so far as my memory takes me back I have known these guys. Reconnecting is going to be cake walk mostly and I am hoping to have a chill time. I am hoping to pack a LOT of music and books and take it easy at the beach. I think about doing things that sound relaxing but in the end I would probably just end consuming a truck load of entertainment. So addicted.

For now, that is the plan. Take this 5 day slip road and then join back to the original highway which is in Kerala. Pick up my family and come back to Dubai on the 11th of Jan. From there we embark on another year of togetherness, highs no lows and a lot of family time. I won’t call these as promises made however I’ll do my best to do more with family this year. I’m kind of a self centered asshole and I’d like to do away with it. Lets see how that goes. That’s it from me for this time. Again, I hope this gets published. Trust me when I say, I have 8 drafts which never got published!

Shout out!

By | December 19, 2018

Here’s a shout out to any and all old readers of the blog. If you come by put in a comment! Just need to know if people still come around.

Category: Me

By | April 6, 2017

Should be thinking about my health.
Should be concentrating on work and be thankful.
Should be spending more time with my family.
Should try ‘positivity’ a bit more often.
Should get in touch with friends who have walked away.
Should be happy.

Some of the many things that have ‘should be’s’ attached to them which is a big no-no according to my boss. Therefore technically it is something I avoid on a daily basis at work but when it comes to life this is all I have; a bunch of should be’s. I’ve been saying this to myself and to Shruti on an hourly basis when I need to avoid, procrastinate or just plain defend myself from goals be it the smallest of ones. Damn you Anup! Don’t start off with your never ending rants full of self pity. Its pathetic.

So the point of my post today was about this feeling of helplessness or of a place which seems so dark that you don’t know if you are alive or dead or a noise so vile that you’d rather die than bear it any longer. A point in your life where you feel that killing yourself is easier than dragging on any further. I wonder how someone commits to a decision like this. All of us at various points in our life must have thought of jumping off from somewhere or hitting some shots of Harpic or some such shit to end it all but this thought goes before it comes because we give ourselves ideas of getting out of that place without having to kill ourselves. Even if it means killing someone else. These people though – they achieve a state of Nirvana where their final goal is death and they have the will to reach it.

I am heavily disturbed by this 24 year old who had his whole life ahead of him and still thought it was best if he just ended it all. He was addicted to drugs and was supposedly depressed they said. I did watch the video he made before he jumped off the 17th floor and all that I could see from his face was a whole life ahead of him with a galore of opportunities. At 24 I believe you are at a stage which is like a pedestal that peeks you above everyone else. It lets you look at the world from a high point and gives you the opportunity to choose what you want to do with life. You can decide for yourself, pick what you like and walk or run towards it. Its like a fucking shopping cart; life that is. Fuck all those who talk about wrong decisions. There is neither right nor wrong. Its all about what’s good for you and at 24 you should be sensible enough to decide. Else, jump from a building and die motherfucker! Pisses me off that he thought it was just him affected by this decision. Don’t give me other worldly thoughts and rebellious puns. I don’t give a flying fuck. What you have done is the most cowardice act that there could be. You have perennially hurt your parents, maybe their parents (even more) and friends, the dog you fed on your way back from wherever. Fuck, you have stolen energy from a common space we all share and destroyed it!

Grey because to some it is and to some it is not. For me though, fuck you! Suicide is not a solution.

Musebox 32 – A year full of Krisha!

By | March 1, 2017

Shruti, my dear dearest; this post I write on OUR behalf more than mine and that’s the reason I’ve only mentioned our daughter and not you, so yeah, that being said lets get on with the post.

Another year went by and I’ve become 33 years old or considering the glass half empty guy that I am, lets say I’m running 33 which does sound a lot older than what it actually is but that’s how I feel so lets keep it at that. I’ve always come by to write a musebox post so why not about year 32, right? Especially since it has been made so eventful with Krisha being all over it. What they say is so true – when you decide to bring new life be ready; always remember that you’re not a couple anymore! What most people forget to mention is that we’re not a couple anymore instead we are a family or if you want to make things sound more tantalizing – we are a gang! A freaking powerhouse if you just jump into the numerous moments of pure bliss radiated by a 3 year old. Now its a totally different thing if you are me and are too busy entertaining yourself. If this is the case you are nothing but an escapist but I’m a self proclaimed one anyway so, meh.

Krisha turned 3 on the 3rd of September and all this time has flown by studded with her many antics, giggles, tears and her ever so demanding demeanor. I always tried to maintain that Musebox posts would be about me because I generally am a self centered narcissist however as time goes by and since we are blessed to have Krisha with us, life is more about her and less about us. I am not sure if this is the case with all parents – maybe it is because kids these days seem to require all our attention. I remember the times when I could go about minding my own business very early in my life. Its only when I’d get into deep shit would my mom or dad come rescue me. Now however, Krisha has either Shruti or me looking out for her constantly. Preventing her every fall, worried for all the mistakes she’ll make and warning her about everything she touches. I sometimes want to yell at myself because of how I am with her. Whatever she touches she hears a no from my end because in my eyes whatever it is that she has touched turns into a weapon of self destruction.

Krisha’s major milestones:

  • Steady school and play time for Krisha.
  • The ability to fight diseases earned from said school.
  • Bladder and bowel control.
  • Fluently converse in English with diction that I am quite happy with. We will build on it soon. Pro tip: Krisha can effectively use the words “actually” and “supposed to” for example “I was supposed to get you water however I found a balloon!”
  • The ability to socialize and make new friends and learn the all too powerful knowledge where you change a standstill situation into a win-win one. For example, “If you touch my cycle, I will touch yours!”
  • Understand “love” and what she feels for her parents which eventually leads to crazy and wet smother sessions!
  • Most importantly, a demeanor to kill for! Is kind – will cry but will give, Is smart – can solve a 102 piece puzzle set, Is confident – can argue till you drop dead and has situational awareness which is of extreme importance in todays world.

I worry when I write walls of texts. Sometimes I find ways to insert an image or a gif into posts which tend to get long but the only image that comes to my mind is a bit too personal to put on here because I am a paranoid father and I’d rather not have my little ones picture anywhere on the web. Its tough though because we are in a digital era and our footprints are all over the place. Add to the fact that she can handle an iPad on her own at age 3.5 is just uncomfortably shocking. I was eating mud at that age and I feel let down about myself when I think of it that way. Damn, I am competitive!

On a completely different note, I know that considering the YouTube generation that we are living in; no one really has the time to subscribe to RSS or read blogs or anything else for that matter however, any further write ups here will be for those select and lucky few who still seem to give a damn about words. More in next.

Guidelines & Resolutions

By | April 29, 2015

Overall, I have noticed that the last few years of my life have all been about me pampering myself with the best things in life. I have since then become this fat pig who doesn’t have any structure. No really, I mean that physically and psychologically. This has got me to a point in life where I am having to deal with complications that I shouldn’t have at age 31. In any case, I have decided to end the prodigal run and come back to my senses. Here are some rules and I must put them on my pin board (which I am soon to find). I hope to sticky this post so that it always reminds me of these points:

  1. Eat 5-6 times a day; short servings.
  2. Eat Fiber rich food as far as possible.
  3. Include more green veggies in the diet.
  4. Sugar is alright but keep it nominal, on occasions and as need be. Do not consume sugar/sugar based processed items as “food” as this is a major problem!
  5. Eat fruits; but keep the servings to small ones and as snacks.
  6. Reduce milk wherever possible and if needed (tea) try to make home tea with skimmed milk only.
  7. Move whenever possible. Do not sit at a stretch for more than 30 minutes.
  8. Exercise – come up with a plan and do it right. Start with a 30-40 minute brisk walk every day.
  9. SLEEP – Try to get good 7-8 hrs of sleep per day.
  10. Change sleep habits to sleep early and wake up early.
  11. Get rid of the need to play video games. Play when you can and not live when you can.
  12. Get out of the house whenever possible, get some fresh air. Your family deserves it just as well.
  13.  Stop making excuses; be it for anything. Excuses and procrastination are the strongest signs of absolute weakness.
  14. Be nicer to people who are close to you. Taking them for granted is a mistake.
  15. Travel – try to make time to see the world. Use your holidays and money wisely.
  16. Give your friends a call every now and then. If possible, visit and catch up. Friends are your lifeline.
  17. Concentrate on work when at work and ensure to not be out of focus. Set tangible goals and plans.
  18. Come back home with a smile on your face and not a frown. Your work grumpiness can be left at your desk.
  19. Stress does not help so take it easy and go with the flow.
  20. Finally, be happy! That’s what life should be all about.

I don’t quite know where I’d reach this with this but here’s a solemn promise that I will try hard.

Category: Me

The death of COMPASSION

By | April 17, 2015

You know what’s funny? Its the fact that I had to double check how I spelled the word compassion just to confirm if I got it right. Although it speaks volumes about my self-proclaimed understanding of the English language what alarms me more is the fact that I had to give it a thought and affirm with a search engine; the very essence that makes us human – to feel for one another. I feel its been ages since its gone. Now you see it in TV commercials and WhatsApp forwards where you try to show your children little clippings for re-enacted events of the past where people actually smiled where they had time for another man’s problems where we all just had more time for each other. Even if it were to cat fight and argue about some small little thing. What it meant was that we still cared. As human beings we acknowledged the presence of others in our lives and we felt for each other. It horrifies me when I think about events that I have been witness to over the past decade where compassion seems to be dead in totality. I am not someone pointing fingers or blaming time or people for this. Neither am I blaming god. This isn’t me just cribbing and playing the blame game. This is just me realizing how far we have come as beings of a futuristic bright world where everything is bright and gay.

I’m proud to have been born in the 80’s – those according to me were the golden ages where two paradigm shifting times met. The 50’s-60’s&70’s met the 90’s-to-date. We were bang in the middle and our childhood was so blissful. We had neighbors that cared and stray dogs that chased that cricket ball with you. We had a lot less diseases and that lone tree right in front of your house which served as your cricket stumps when playing with that lone other friend who thought it was alright to be out playing forever as far as he had you. Gone are the days when the TV was meant for the adults and the phone was a luxury that many would just ignore as they were content with just one phone in the neighborhood and all of them could get their messages there. Now a family of 4 has a minimum of 6 phones hiding their dark secrets from each other. We had communities; be it in school or at home. This ensured that we had people to look up to, we had people to perform for, we had people to play with and we had people to sit around and share a meal with. Now, we sit in different corners of a room and chew listlessly on food ordered from some place across some street meekly staring at a TV that never gets rest while that tiny new thing in our lives looks on at our face confused at what my folks are looking at on that very unreal thing when I’m right here with my pranks and smiles? Heh, I really have no answer for all these times when I seem to delve into a cloud of dark realization and self pity. There is always a catalyst I tell you and this time its something that’s deeply affecting me and what’s strange is that there is nothing I can do about it.

I won’t quite get into the detail of things but its just that there’s this incurable skin condition I have called “Lichen Planus” – you guys (those who come by) can google it up. Its an average to rare skin ailment stemming out of poor health reasons caused due to years of abuse to ones body. You don’t quite know this but you yourself dig a tiny little grave for your skin to rest in. All the good things you ate over the period of time where you left home and you thought you were invincible up until now decide to haunt you and they make a triumphant return in a re splendid fashion giving you sleeplessly itchy nights. No I don’t mean to gross you’ll out – its just that I never thought I’d be pushed into a corner like this. Heh, not that my life’s come to an end or something but I feel cornered suddenly as my life was moving along at a decent pace and had good momentum. I knew that there was this lingering issue but I never bothered too much and this was till I decided to take it up seriously and do my research. Seems glum.

Getting back to my point though. The above state of mind made me think back about where I came from and what my childhood was like, my culture, my people, my street, my childhood friends, my school and all those events which would never ever come back and which I cannot transfer as experience to my darling daughter. I could only wish for her to have gone to the kind of school I did. Since I spent 12 years there, it is only fitting for me to say that my school was what made me who I am; as a person. I am a decent human being. I have my flaws but don’t we all deal with different kinds of flaws at one point in time or another? I speak about that poor old beggar who sat in the corner next to the medical shop from where I caught my van to my Junior High and back and how it was that there was a small daily amount of Rs 2 that I could save considering that dad gave me 10 bucks to and from school and 10 bucks for food as need be. I did use up one of them on the one hour session at the cyber cafe and the other 10 had to be used for travelling. I am still left with Rs 2 that I would hope to save for 5 days so that it converts to 10 bucks which I could use for something else. However on my way back, my eyes would meet his and all I could do was give him the 2 bucks for that bite of food which kept him going. I wonder if kids these days would feel the way we did when we were small and tiny. Shruti spoke about how the security guard at my sisters building picked up a couple of 14 years old with pot/weed and how heart breaking it was to notice that a generation is dying while we all continue to chase our dreams.

Meh, COMPASSION? Nuff said.

Musebox 31 – Year ending 2014

By | January 3, 2015

photo(1)The year is about to end and here’s wishing a grand good bye to 2014. As usual I am a day too late to come up with updates and no I am not here to give excuses because the year has been an excellent one considering that me and my partner in crime; Shruti have had our little devil grow into this beautiful little ball of joy that makes us laugh and cry at the same time. No, I’m not kidding about this. We never knew that a small little thing like her could hold us hostage. Ohh and tears! I am sure she can contract for water if she wanted to cause tears just flow so naturally and easily at her will. All this apart we have been blissfully lucky to have her with us and there isn’t a day that goes by where we don’t thank god for giving her to us. She’s the prettiest thing we have seen and she is and will be forever – the queen of our heart.

This year has zoomed through at the speed of light. Work has been hectic and as I explained above we have had someone who just sucks every desire in us to look at anything else but her and hell no, I say that with absolutely no remorse. Though there are times when it seems too much for us to take; one smile and it all goes away. More than me its her, Shruti, the mother – the life-giver. Here is where you as a man see how inconsequential you are. All you contribute towards that life seems so minuscule when you observe from so close as to what a mother gives to get you to be where you are. In the end all you end up wishing is not for your offspring to love, respect or be there for you. All you wish for is for that child to know her mothers worth and be there for her – forever because you would never have had the power to move a limb if it weren’t for her. So here’s saluting all the millions of mothers out there. What you do is never truly recognized and it is in one of these very weak moments where us men tend to say – hey, thank you. Thank you for everything.

Work has been killer this entire year and no its not because I’m doing a lot of things. Its this one project which has clung on to me like tar to road. Its so sticky that it just won’t let go and I’m sure that even when it supposedly gets over I’d have stains and I’ll still be stuck in one way or the other to the road and I’ll have tons of people drive all over me. See the reference there? I’ve made way for people to commute and I know that I’ll get stuck on that very way. I tried to be Euphemistic there but no, I just can’t get it sound any less grim. The fuckin’ project is such that the management doesn’t give a fuck, the users don’t give two fucks and it seems like its just the Project team that see how important it is. Meh, important you ask? Fuck that – we are scrubs who work for nothing more than money. There is no respect and I’ve been living like this for far too long but then its Ka-ching you know? However much you earn the lesser it seems. God damn it, stop being such a sucker for pity Anup. Tell them about all the real life awesomeness that you’re missing out on just cause you’d rather sit in front of the thing-that-shows-you-whats-not-real instead of picking up that kid and going to the garden. Smell that fresh air, you know? Ahhh, let me get to that in small simple pointers.

  • I live a dream most people can only dream of – I swear to god!
  • I don’t seem to see all the good that my life has studded all over the place.
  • My wife loves me too god damn much for my own good. I am 97 kgs and counting.
  • Weight loss is a journey that we both embark on every single day and fail at it twice on the same day at the least.
  • …continuing – we are like spiders. We never give up!
  • I live in a country where me and my family can be out on the street at any given point in time and not fear for our safety.
  • I drive a car that I could only have dreamed of; elsewhere.
  • I can jog a couple of miles if I still wanted to. Hope I see the good in this.
  • I got a total of 46 paid days off this year – WTF?

So yes, the above should stand testimony to the fact that I need to live each and every moment of life rather than cribbing about how much it could have been better. Of course it can be made better but no one else except me can work towards it because god knows and I do too that nature has given me everything that I need, I have all the tools to ensure that I grow old well. How I utilize this is left unto me and if I fail at it I have no one but me to blame. For now though, I seem to get crowded by thoughts and heavy words like “responsibilities” which is something every middle aged man goes through and these struggles are something you wade through to ensure that you see that sense of purposed which drives our lives. I am still running circles though with Shruti and Krisha right in the middle. They seem to bear up with my stupid bouts of anger, idiosyncrasies that I myself don’t understand and yes finally – all the luggage that I seem to carry. Ohh God, help me just shed the weight and feel light cause that’s what I want to feel. But then again, here we have another year of achievements and I am sure that I’ll win if I have these guys by my side. That’s it for now I guess.

<3 my lovelies. I know I talk a lot and don’t do much but I will try to get better. Hope you have faith in me and remember – patience is key with me!

Where I am.

By | June 3, 2014

Where I am is at a place in time where all I see around is a shit ton of negativity. Minuses I throw at myself, procrastination for every thing; big or small, utter lack of life or excitement and an appalling amount of deep lethargy. Now, this is either a disease or just me but I’m not waiting to find out. I know that blogs have had their time and that they have come and gone. I know that the time now is to Vlog and be out there on YouTube. I am thinking on similar lines but I thought I should begin at a place which I have maintained for far too long. I thought I should promise my home on the web and try to stick by it. I need to get better and give it my best shot. I don’t quite know where it began and how to get rid of it but all I know is that I need to fight myself and my strong will to REST!

I weighed myself in yesterday after a visit to the doctor who I was visiting to complain about how tired I feel and about the spot sleeping. He wasn’t surprised by what was happening to me. At an outrageous 100 kgs – you cannot blame the body if it wants to rest. You do this to yourself. You cause your nose to shut down in the night and make noises that wake up the dead ffs. You cause deep sleep unrests not only for yourself but also your family and all of this comes down with not-so-uncommon diseases like sleep apnea. Now what I have seems like a mild case not the ones where you literally choke and die but the mild ones which ruins your sleep and makes you sleepy throughout the day. This in turn makes you lazy and lethargic and adds on to your difficulties. This is a vicious circle which will never end unless you put that foot forward and take a walk.

So, I’ll come by, probably every week; just to keep a tab of myself here on my blog. I may post pictures if I feel like it but for now, I am living in such self pity that I don’t quite feel like posting one. Maybe later? My kid brother who got better is my guide this time and I’m going to start slow. There are a few things I need to cut down on. I don’t think I want to get rid of them fully because I’d love to game as a hobby. All I need to do is say good bye to it from an addiction perspective. An addiction like this; I feel, is something I can help myself with. My daughter has already helped me a bit cause she just won’t let me be but I guess I need to shut down the rest and invest that time into something more constructive. I need to help out Shruti too because getting a life into this world can take its toll on your body and she needs my help. Lets see how things go. What I need for now is a solid set of songs to go along as I take the walk.

Stats for now:

Weight: 100 KG – need I say more for stats? Fuck this!

The rat race!

By | April 23, 2014

Aren’t we all in one? From the time one is born to the day he dies; he is part of a never ending rat race. We have people who constantly win their races and are used to the rush it gives them. You then have those who are used to losing constantly and have given up on things and in the process are in a constant state of denial or hatred and then you have people like me who spend time loathing both these types of people and living a life dealing with the numerous intolerable experiences that have to be borne living in the company of people like these. You’d call me confused but in fact, I’m someone who is very clear about what disgusts me!

To all my corporate brethren – do we ever stop to think what we are giving up on in order to get that bit better than our peers? Did you know that you just lost a friend for life? He could have been that but then you desperately needed that promotion which was coming up next month or you thought no one else deserved that onsite position more than you or that you passed a self righteous judgment on his intentions and just about did everything else to make yourself seem like the most repulsive person out there. Why don’t you stop to think that this person could end up being more than just a co-worker (I hate the word colleague. I hate how it sounds and how it spells, pardon me!). But then again, once you are 30 and are in the cusp of being a middle man; a fucking small fish in a sea full of giant fish guzzling whales – you’d do anything to stay afloat I guess.

I come from a very different work culture where everyone was a friend; where we did compete but all was in good spirit and we all enjoyed each others success because the guy who got the most at the end of the month paid for the tea breaks! That was all that we needed to be happy. Ahhh, good old days when you were young and did not give a fuck. But then comes along the middle ages which confuses the crap out of the best of us. You don’t know if you are young or old. You are torn between saving up for your child and buying that new electronic goodie which beckons you with an enticing grin each time you pass by its window. Decision making ends up being the toughest activity of the day and its here when you notice that in the process of trying to outrun your friends you have all just gone different directions and given up on the simplest most precious pleasures of life – moments… moments of pure bliss.

I now live in a world where I see people competing every single day and it makes me sick. To the pit of my small intestine. Ok, there was some exaggeration thrown in there but you get where I’m coming from? Don’t get me wrong, I love to compete. I’m a gamer and I never give up. However, no hard feelings ehh? You compete with all honesty and be men and women about the fact that you may or may not be better than people you are up against. Be real enough to accept and move on. If someone is better than you and you genuinely known this – accept it and try to learn and help yourself rather than spending time in moping about where you are in life and trying to think about ways in which you could ensure that you steal some of their limelight. This for the poor ones left gaping behind. For those front runners – I really feel they should ensure that they don’t end up being cocky ass’ who use the good they have and add on some ass licking to it in order to gain something year on end but fail miserably nevertheless. When the time comes my friend you will get what you deserve. I don’t believe in fate but I do believe in Karma.

What pains me most about the rat race is the people you lose behind. I don’t mind the random nincompoops you meet on your way to your end. Its the few that you meet and instantly know that these are people who must stay in your life but you lose them nevertheless. These are the people who stick to your memories like episodes of nightmares which haunt you every now and then. In the rat race called life, lets take a moment to stop and admire what we have, who we have and what we are up against. Its a wave too huge for us to fight alone. Find someone to paddle with and things will be much more smoother. Find friends you can keep and more importantly, find friends who will keep you. Forgive mistakes and share your knowledge this will only make you better… in this rat race called life!

Of diapers and controllers!

By | February 26, 2014

Daddy&DaughterWeird set ehh? Those two. Diapers and controllers. What I mean by controllers here are not the trotting terrors tssk tssk; the wives! In this context I’m talking about my PlayStation controllers. Heh, its very real though; this is where I am. This is where I stand and this is where I get stuck as I seem to want to do both. So I thought I might as well make a come back to the world of letters with an Anup who is so very lost. I’ve thought about writing more regularly too many times but as I have mentioned before; MY life seems to get the best off of me and things that I need to do gets over-run by things that I want to do. These are most often than not – activities that I can avoid or do without but then you know how it is with us humans. Addictions are very real. Obsessions attack the weak and I have proven to myself and my loved ones time and again that I am weak. Very weak. In any case, my weakness’ have been shared out here too many times and it isn’t funny or entertaining anymore. Why I’m here is to add a brand new category to my blog – Krisha, our little bundle of joy!

She opened her eyes and looked at me on the 3rd of September 2013 and I guess the excitement is the same for all new parents. She was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. She had a little smile on her face and was calm. Very light and dainty when I held her for the first time and was particular that she’d smile a bit when I clicked her picture the first. It was me and my mom-in-law who saw her the first and we both agreed that she was me carbon copied. I know that not all might see the similarities but people who truly know me and who have my face etched in their memories would know that her face is just a female version of me which by extension is a female version of my moms. She has all the good looks running from our family and I’m the proudest father there can be!

The controllers seem to have taken a back seat from where I see things. Of course Shruti has to bitch about those 10 minutes that I spend with one of my only hobbies. This is where we have this whole discussion on diapers and controllers. I don’t quite know if there are gamer daddy’s out there who struggle between this stage in their life where they are still stuck with games and their love for the great stories told there and their little ones who decide to cry, shit, fart, pee and everything else that’s disgusting and/or everything at the same time right when you’re about to get this excellent kill on Battlefield 3 but hey, if you’ll are out there do let me know. Its a long sentence but it sums up my point for this post. This is where I am stuck. I need to exercise and I know this. Its not that I don’t cause that’d just make me mad. I’ve put on a lot over the last 2 years and the excellent Gulab Jamuns from Mirchi don’t help one bit. My sweet tooth gets the better of me each and every time and like I mentioned above I am the king of “giver uppers”. I am that guy who gave up trying. The thing is; I love sweets, fuck that! I’m eating no matter how soon I die. Am I sorry about it? Hell NO!

Since the last time we spoke I have graduated to being an expert at changing diapers, an expert at burping my baby boo and an absolute baws (boss pronounces with the dubyoo) at smothering kisses. I have also; since then, got myself a ton of new games, bought games I never play and built myself a gaming PC. I will come back with more updates on this soon but the point to note is that what I’m going to be talking about here hence on will either be about smelly diapers or about THOSE games that I’d so love to play.

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Thursday, June 14, 2012

Duri Keep Your Options Open Spring/Summer Collection Review - Part 1

Sorry for taking a short break.  This summer break is all about trying to manage my time and at this point, I'm not doing such a good job of it.  LOL.

Anyway, today, I have for you part 1 of Duri's Spring/Summer 2012 collection.  When Duri sent out this collection, both in press releases and in samples, they broke it in to groups, Spring and Summer.  These polishes are from the "Spring" grouping and tomorrow, I will show you the "Summer" group...

Far and Away Adventures - hot, rose pink shimmer.  When I first swatched this one, I thought I wouldn't like it.  I honestly thought it was going to be a frosty mess.  However, it surprised me.  What I thought was going to be frost was actually a slight purple flash.  I really love the color, too.  I'm not sure, if I could wear it for a full manicure, but I think this would look fantastic as a summer pedicure.  The formula was fine, though I still had thin spots at 2 coats, so I applied three.  Also, while it's not a frost polish, it is apt to show brush strokes, so it's wise to go slow with this one and watch where you place your strokes.

Necessary Luxury - light, putty grey creme.  This polish would fit nicely in the "greige" family, and is a great work-safe polish.  There is a slight lavender tone to it in the bottle, but that didn't really translate on to my nails.  Formula was fine with no issues.  3 coats.

Off the Beaten Path - light, lilac creme.  This one is so light and airy and I think it's a perfect spring polish, though it would look just as lovely in the summer.  It's a beautiful purple with a hint of blue.  3 coats.

Set the Mood - Milky white sheer.  The color on this one is very pretty, but I really didn't like the formula.  I can handle sheers on occasion, provided they aren't streaky (which a non-streaky sheer polish is a rare find).  This one wasn't as streaky as some I've seen, so you may be able to tame it with a sticky base coat.  I still had thin spots at 3 coats, so I'm not sure if you can reach opacity with this one.  That said, I think this would work well as a french manicure polish, provided you could control the streaks.  3 coats.

Stay in Splendor - creamy orange creme.  This one was the color of orange creamsicles.  I think this one would look fabulous with a tan.  Formula was a little thin for me.  3 coats.

Trust Your Instincts - light pink-lavender.  This one is the baby sister to Off the Beaten Path.  It's a super light polish, but I was able to reach opacity rather quickly.  I found the formula to be thick, yet a little runny, but it was easy to control.  2 coats.

I thought this was a really nice offering for spring.  My favorites are Off the Beaten Path, and oddly enough, Far and Away Adventures.  Be sure to check tomorrow for the second part of this collection.

Duri polishes are available at Duri.com, as well as other online retailers and brick and mortar supply stores.  Polishes retail for $5 a bottle.

Duri Keep Your Options Open collection was sent to me for review.  The above link links to this collection on Duri's website and is not an affiliate link.

Jaz said...

I dont know if I like this collection too much. I do like Necessary Luxury though.

Gosia said...

I love the pink one!! really weird since I'm not a pink kind of girl but this one seems to glow from the inside out... drool...

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text:
Siraj Wahab • [email protected]
Publication Date:
Sat, 2006-03-11 03:00

JEDDAH, 11 March 2006 - Twenty-four-year-old Rajaa Al-Sanea stirred up a hornet's nest with the publication of her first novel, "Banat Al-Riyadh" or "The Girls of Riyadh." Reactions to the 319-page novel have, in some cases, been extreme. The novel deals with the lives of four young Saudi girls who must live according to the traditions of Saudi society. The girls are students at a university in Riyadh.

Al-Sanea has attained instant fame because of the raging debate over her novel which was first published in Arabic by Saqi Books in Lebanon last September. Now she is looking for an English language publisher. Nearly 250 articles have appeared about the novel, both here and abroad. Her critics and fans come from all age groups.

Al-Sanea's detractors contend there is nothing great about the book and offer a variety of justifications for their position. Some credit the book's success to its introduction, written by Labor Minister Dr. Ghazi Al-Gosaibi, a renowned poet and author. "'Banat Al-Riyadh' is a work that deserves to be read. I expect a lot from this author," he writes in his introduction.

In trashing the book, one Saudi woman writer said: "But for Dr. Al-Gosaibi's introduction, nobody would have given this novel a second thought." Some others say the reason for Al-Sanea's popularity is her good looks. In an Associated Press report, Donna Abu-Nasr describes her as "a petite brunette who wears an Islamic head scarf, like virtually all Saudi women."

"This is the age of television and looks matter," said a 30-year-old Saudi who read the book last week. "Somebody got it for me from Beirut. Beauty drives the marketing of your product. Rajaa has the looks, and so even when the product, i.e. the novel, is bad it sells and is selling like hot cakes," he said.

Al-Sanea's fans, whose numbers are legion going by the hits on her website (www.rajaa.net), say those who criticize are simply jealous of her success. They (the critics) say the style is atrocious. They say the language is far from classical Arabic. They say it is peppered with chatroom English and full of meaningless terms from the Internet. When Al-Sanea was asked about it, she was blunt. "I wrote the first few chapters in classical Arabic, but I modified them later because I couldn't convince myself that women my age would use classical Arabic to speak to each other. I used colloquial language to improve communication with my readers."

One Saudi woman journalist probably hit the nail on the head when she observed: "It is our tradition not to talk about the ills of our society. We know there are problems in our society, but the general reaction is to keep quiet. We have been taught from an early age that if we talk about the ills of our society, people will laugh at us. We are seen as role models in the Muslim world. And even when we are not entirely perfect, we should pretend that we are. 'Banat Al-Riyadh' deals with four characters. They may or may not represent all of Saudi society. But yes, we do come across the four fictional characters in our daily lives. Probably Saudi society - and especially Saudi women - are so much in the spotlight that this novel has come in handy for people who want to take a peek into the lives of Saudi girls. My only problem is that it sheds only a negative light on Saudi women. People outside this country will take it as a definitive word on the girls of our country." Many of Al-Sanea's critics would agree and they want her to change the title of the novel precisely because they think it gives the impression that it is true of all the girls in Riyadh.

The Book

"Banat Al-Riyadh" examines the lives of four Saudi girls: Sadeem, Qamrah, Mashael and Lamees. Mashael is half-Saudi and half-American. Her American mother and friends call her Michelle. All four are students at a university in Riyadh. According to one Saudi female columnist, there are in fact five women instead of four. "Everyone seems to forget the narrator," she wrote.

The narrator is unidentified, except that she is in her early 20s. She is a modern Scheherazade who tells the stories of the girls' weekends. Her motivation is to end society's tyranny over her friends.

The four girls are bound by a strong friendship despite many differences. Each one of them experiences failures except Lamees who succeeds in both her professional and personal life. She marries the man of her choice and goes with him to Canada to study for a degree in medicine.

Lamees is the group's fortune-teller. She always is consulted by her friends about future matches and emotional relationships. At one point in the novel, she ends her friendship with Fatema because she is a Shia, and Lamees is a Sunni. Lamees likes Fatema's brother who is studying medicine, but the relationship ends abruptly after they are caught in a cafe by members of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.

Lamees has a kind heart and helps her friends in resolving their problems. She supports them in times of need. For example, she teaches Qamrah, who has been ill-treated by society, how to use the Internet, send e-mails and to chat online so that she can come out of the isolated world she finds herself in. Qamrah is a divorcee with a baby.

Qamrah's story is typical. She married Rashed after an arranged meeting at which the two families allowed the prospective husband to see the girl once to decide whether he liked her. There was no exchange of ideas or thoughts. "See the girl once and make up your mind." Qamrah also had the same chance to see the man and give her opinion. Since they both agreed, their families proceeded with the marriage. After marriage, the two go to Chicago so that Rashed can finish his postgraduate studies. The novel discusses their marital discord.

Rashed forces her to give up her hijab. And she does so in the hope of winning his heart. But when he sees her without hijab he thinks she looks ugly. He asks her to wear the hijab again to hide her ugliness. Qamrah loves Rashed despite all his cruelty. Matters come to a head when she learns of Rashed's betrayal. He has a mistress: A Japanese-American woman. Qamrah insists on meeting the woman and leaves seething with the desire for revenge. She stops taking her contraceptive pills and becomes pregnant.

When Rashed finds out that she is pregnant, he slaps her and sends her back to Riyadh. He then sends divorce papers and she becomes a single parent. She lives at her father's house completely isolated. Her family members prevent her from going out. They fear she will stain the family name and honor if she goes out but her friends nonetheless manage to get her out from time to time.

Sadeem's story is no less tragic. She is raised by her father because her mother dies soon after giving birth to her. She loses her first love and then her second. Her first tragedy is caused by Walid when he deserts her after a few months of marriage. She gives herself to him one night considering that he is her husband even though the wedding had not taken place yet. Walid disappears and is never seen again. He eventually sends divorce papers which come as a shock; she blames herself because she did not wait until after the wedding. Sadeem never tells her family about what happened. She believes Walid divorced her because he thought she was girl with loose morals. (In the Muslim world, engagement norms are different from those in the West. The man and woman are considered officially married when their marital vows are exchanged and the documents signed. However, the period from the time of signing the documents till the night of the wedding is the engagement period. There is nothing in Islam to prevent them from having sex before that night as they are officially wed, but to do so is considered a mistake by society and men may get the impression that the girl is too easy or that she has had a premarital relationship.)

Sadeem's second tragedy is caused by Firas. She meets him in London while recovering from her first tragedy. She falls in love with him and he with her. But the fact that he has never been married prevents him from marrying a divorcee. Firas then marries one of his relatives and later calls Sadeem and offers to continue the relationship without leaving his wife. Sadeem refuses. Her suffering increases as Firas continues to call her. She finally decides to forget all about him and she is left with no choice but to marry her cousin Tareq. She never wanted to marry him even though he had strong feelings for her.

Mashael is more realistic and more liberal. Compared to her friends, she has had more freedom. She was born to a Saudi father and an American mother. One day, she meets Faisal when he asks her and her girlfriends to allow him to enter the shopping mall with them as a brother. (Single young men are not allowed to enter big shopping malls in order to prevent them from flirting with women.) This brief encounter is the start of mutual love. Their attraction lasts a year, and when Mashael asks Faisal to marry her, he refuses since his mother will not allow him to marry a girl who was not chosen by his family. On top of that, there are objections to Mashael's American mother. The upshot is that Mashael loses her faith in men and travels to San Francisco to study with an American cousin. They are attracted to one another, but things never progress to love. Faced with this confusing relationship, she travels back to Riyadh. Her father decides to move the whole family to Dubai in order to escape the gossip about Mashael as well as what has become her bad reputation.

In Dubai, Mashael works for a satellite TV channel. She succeeds in her work and lives freely. She admires a TV director who works with her, but she remains confused about whether she loves him. She asks her father if he will allow her to appear on TV as there is an opening for a TV hostess, but he refuses and convinces her that her appearance on TV would lead to problems in Saudi Arabia and with his family.

The novel has one encouraging story and that is the marriage of Lamees to the man she has chosen. It seems that Lamees learns from the mistakes of her friends and never repeats them. In fact, she formulates a strategy to win her colleague's heart after falling in love with him at first sight. She uses everything to make the relationship succeed. Her plans culminate in a happy marriage and a trip to Canada to study medicine.

The Author

"I try all the time to distance myself from motivated writings since, in the Arab world, this kind of writing is more or less a form of propaganda that transfers a distorted image of reality to the reader," Al-Sanea told Arab News when asked about her motive for writing the book. "I write because I enjoy this kind of art; I'm not sure if anyone has to give a reason to write or to paint."

During her interview with Arab News, Al-Sanea said she was surprised by the amount of attention the novel has generated. "I did expect some controversy - but not to this extent," she said. "About 200 articles have been written about the novel in the Arabic media and about 50 in English. I never expected that. It is important to listen to both parties. Any creative act usually leads to controversy, but what is important is the end result - positive progress, I hope."

She also is quick to remind people that the book is a novel - a work of fiction. "I hate to disappoint you but the characters in the book are not my friends," Al-Sanea said. "The novel is based on events I've heard about; they have added authenticity to the novel."

Al-Sanea considers herself an author, not a firebrand. "I am just a member of this society who is giving the reader a chance to look through my small window and share the same scene with me," she said. "Any successful work should have a creative idea behind it, and I do believe the issue is not to write about different aspects of society, but to catch a creative idea and put it on paper."

The young woman is fascinated by the works of Dr. Ghazi Al-Gosaibi and Ihsan Abdul-Qudos. "I also read non-Arabic works in their original language. I have always admired 'The Old Man and the Sea' by Ernest Hemingway. In that novel, the writer uses his enormous talent and expertise to impress the reader with an environment that is abstract: The sea and one man."

Al-Sanea hopes to continue honing her craft and, at this point, expects it to be a lifelong pursuit. "I want to continue to write and produce novels of the same caliber. I have a book in my mind already, but I would like to keep it to myself for now," Al-Sanea said, noting that her family and friends have been supportive of her. She has no regrets about "Banat Al-Riyadh." "I am proud of it. I would hate any change to be made to its content."

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text:
2018-10-10 / Obituaries

Hutoka Alice Opdycke

Hutoka Opdycke Hutoka Opdycke Hutoka Alice Opdycke, 94, of rural Fayette, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, from the Ebeid Hospice Residence in Sylvania.

Born April 2, 1924, in Woodburn, Ind., she was a daughter of the late Raymond and Esther (Zimmerman) Gerig.

Hutoka lived her formative years in Woodburn, Ind., and later West Unity, where she graduated from high school with the Class of 1942.

She became a wife that same year, on May 31, 1942, to the love of her life, Floyd Emerson Opdycke. They were blessed with over 71 years of happy marriage until his death on Jan. 6, 2014.

A proud farmer’s wife, Hutoka handled with loving care the demands of the household as well as raised her and Floyd’s seven children.

She was a member of the Mother of Twins Club, Franklin Friendly Folks, and the Red Hat Society.

An avid traveler, she visited nearly every state and accompanied Floyd on numerous fishing and hunting trips each year. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting, playing cards, and especially delighted in hosting family gatherings.

Left to honor her legacy are her seven children, James Wayne Opdycke of Archbold, Lee Waldo (Marilyn) Opdycke of Fayette, Larry Ray Opdycke of Fairbanks, Alaska, Donald Floyd (Joan) Opdycke of Alvordton, Ella Marie Lichtenwald of Archbold, Connie Sue (Ken) Wagner of Fayette, and Lyle Lynn “Butch” (Linda) Opdycke of Fayette; a sister, Velma Albert of Paulding; 21 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-greatgrandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Hutoka was preceded in death by two brothers, Lawrence and Lloyd Gerig; a sister, Fern Merillat; a grandson, Chris Opdycke; granddaughter, Belinda Opdycke; and a son-in-law, Allan Lichtenwald.

A funeral service for Hutoka was held Monday, Oct. 8, at 11 a.m., at the Eagle Funeral Home in Fayette with Pastor Jeff Bandy officiating. Burial followed in the Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions in honor of Hutoka are suggested to Sunshine Foundation, Fulton County Special Olympics, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Friends can share memories and words of comfort with the family online at www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.

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text:
Remembering Donald McKayle

Remembering Donald McKayle

Donald McKayle

Donald McKayle was a legend in dance, with a long list of accolades, awards and accomplishments well-documented after his recent passing. But those of us who were lucky enough to be his students, either in a classroom or rehearsal studio, know he displayed his greatest talent in his role of master teacher.

here are hundreds, if not thousands, of dancers around the world who were lucky enough to work with him and many have stories they'd like to share. These are not necessarily stories of a man who won Tonys or broke through walls in the world of modern dance, but stories of their teacher, Donald McKayle.

I am one of them. I met Mr. McKayle in 2004 when I was a graduate student in dance at the University of California, Irvine. I was his teaching assistant for two years while studying at UCI and, upon graduation, he asked me to begin restaging his works around the country.

He was also the man who performed the wedding ceremony for my husband and me. I'll never forget when I casually asked him in the hallway of the dance department if he would go online to become an ordained minister to officiate my marriage. He turned to me and said, "Amy Sennett, you continually inspire and challenge me."


text:
February is Doggy Dental Month!

Doggy Dental Month

What are you doing to keep your dogs teeth and gums healthy? Did you know that teeth and gums are keys to their health? When you go to the vet they will look at their teeth and gums to see if they are properly hydrated, have a fever, and if they are getting tooth or gum decay.

Do your dogs teeth look like this?

Dog's teeth

Maybe it is time for a dental cleaning!

It is important to brush your dogs teeth daily. We all have days where we just did not get to brushing their teeth, in this case use Life’s Abundance Dental Treats. This is a naturally clean way to keep your dogs breath smelling fresher and promoting good oral care. During the month of February you will get a discount on the L.A. Dental Treats from my website.

If you don’t know how to brush your dogs teeth, look here!

Good hygiene and health are important to us here at Ashford Manor Labradoodles!

Cheryl Sabens, Ashford Manor Labradoodles

Home of the Australian Labradoodle Breeder in Indiana

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text:
June 11, 2015

Melissa's CVS trip 6/10/15 I had Extra Care Bucks to get used up...Paid $5.08 OOP!! Got $10 cash card Back...

Bought (4) Coke 12 packs $12.00
Bought (4) Coke 2 liters $5.00
Bought (1) Gillette fusion Razor $9.99
Bought (2) Clorox Bleach $4.00
Total $30.99
Used (1) $3/1 Coke 12 pack from mycokerewards.com
Used (1) $5/1 Gillette found inside one I bought months ago
Used $16 in ECBucks I had from 2 weeks ago
Paid $5.08 OOP
Got back $10 CVS Card!

▲▲ZIP CODE 77477▲▲

$1.00 off (2) Clorox Branded Products

New to A Single Coupon? Get Hot Deals sent directly to your inbox! Enter your email address:

Patrick Amrine

Patrick is a married sales executive and father of four children; a college graduate, one in college, one in grade school and a 5-year old. Besides being c0-owner of A Single Coupon, he also has extensive knowledge on shopping the drugstore chains; CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Bindi Shah

Bindi was born and raised in London England, and moved to the U.S. just over ten years ago, after marrying her American husband in Scotland! She has a 7 year old daughter and a 4 year old son! Beside's being c0-owner of A Single Coupon, couponing and deal seeking are two of her favorite pastimes and she's an expert in the art of saving money at Meijer, Target and Dollar Tree!


text:
RYOBI CHD1201 Battery - We supply RYOBI CHD1201 Power Tools Battery, you will get a high performance and reliable replacement for your RYOBI Power Tools. Brand new, 1 year warranty!
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Never have to fix a break ever again... move your organization to condition based maintenance
Condition Based Maintenance
Condition Based Maintenance or CBM is:
  • A maintenance philosophy
  • Maintenance when needed at opportune times
  • Replacement before end of useful life
  • Utilizes real-time data to detect the need for maintenance and trigger work requests
  • Implements semi-redundant and/or fully redundant equipment and sensors

You can implement condition-based maintenance gradually and to whatever level of automation is appropriate:

  • Manual (ex. based on a paper procedure)
  • Semi-automatic (ex. the computer detects a condition or crosses a threshold and starts an action that requires human intervention)
  • Automatic (ex. queue a maintenance request when a set of conditions are detected by the computer)

Who Should Implement Condition Based Maintenance?

Condition-based maintenance should be consider when a company cannot afford downtime:

  • Manufacturing Facilities
  • Power Plants / Transmission
  • Oil and Gas Exploration
  • Municipal Waste/Water
  • Military
  • Construction (Excavators have historians)
  • Data Centers and Internet Service Providers

CBM optimizes the tradeoff between maintenance costs and performance costs by increasing availability and reliability while eliminating unnecessary maintenance activities.

We would be glad to provide a ‘Lunch N Learn’ session for your staff to learn more about this topic and about Automated Results.


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8 Common Car Repair Mistakes You Should Be Avoiding

If you’re a car owner, then you probably already know that having a car can be quite a commitment. After all, you can’t just let it hit the road all the time or let it linger in your garage. If you want it to run smoothly and efficiently, then car maintenance and repair are your safest bet, which means that you need to visit an auto shop or a car shop routinely. Avoid these car repair mistakes that will put your car at risk.

As much as you want the best for your vehicle, there are still instances when certain car maintenance procedures can go awry, or when you forgo certain repairs — all of these, needless, to say, can be damaging to your car and your safety.

In order to avoid these dangerous and costly blunders, it’s advisable that you familiarize yourself with them as early as plausible. Listed below are some of the most common car repair mistakes.

What are the common car repair mistakes?

Opting for a very low-cost mechanic.

Sure, you want to save some money on repairs, and your instinct might be to go to an extremely economical auto shop or car shop. Unfortunately, there’s a reason why there are low-cost mechanics and more expensive ones — that is, the disparity in quality. You don’t want to sacrifice the welfare of your car by opting for cheap services (not to mention that doing so might lead to more repairs in the future).

This doesn’t mean that you need to select the priciest of the bunch. It’s safe if you veer in the mid-range. Additionally, do your homework and check some online reviews or ask for referrals.

Filling the engine with an incorrect type of oil.

Albeit using an incorrect type of oil won’t necessarily lead to engine failure, doing so can still harm your engine and sacrifice its performance. At any rate, it’s best to be sure what sort of oil you’re supposed to put in your engine.

Skipping the oil change.

In other instances, you might decide to skip the oil change altogether. As with the previous one, this might cause your engine to eventually wear out and run less efficiently. In the end, your engine might finally break down.

Not changing dirty filters.

Not changing dirty filters can lead to serious problems in the future. For one, some of your car’s sensors might fail, which means thousands of pesos of repair.

Ignoring scheduled maintenance.

A vehicle’s scheduled visit to an auto shop or car shop is already listed down in the car manual, and yet, some car owners still choose to blatantly ignore it. You shouldn’t! After all, a car manual has all the information you need to know about your car, and this knowledge might spare you from expensive repairs!

Additionally, following all the instructions written in it guarantees that your vehicle will always be functioning seamlessly.

Overlooking your tattered brake pads.

Not changing your brake pads when there’s already a sign of wear and tear can be hazardous to your safety. As you might have guessed, it can lead to some accidents that you easily could have avoided if you replaced your brake pads with new ones.

Some of the most common manifestations of frayed brake pads are difficult when you’re turning a corner and a deafening, screeching sound that accompanies your car every time it comes to halt.

Forgetting to check cars.

For tires, you’ll need to constantly rotate them and to check air pressure. This will help you avoid the imbalanced tread wear on your tires. Uneven tread wear can lead to myriads of issues, such as vibration when driving, irregular traction, and damage to steering and suspension parts.

Most auto shops or car shops will rotate your vehicle for a fee. However, if you have a jack and jack stand, then you can perform it by yourself at the comforts of your home! As for air pressure, you can just have it checked at a nearby gas station.

Lastly, air temperature also disturbs tire inflation. So even if your tires don’t have air seeping out of it, you might still need to have your tires checked, just to be sure.

Neglecting fluids.

These fluids are there for a reason — that is, they ensure that your vehicle will be running smoothly and efficiently. If you want to be sure about the fluids that your car will need, then your car manual is your best friend.

Key Takeaway

Being a car owner isn’t simple. There are tons of things that you need to know and need to do, and one of them is the necessity of regularly visiting an auto shop or a car shop. After all, you need to ensure that your vehicle is always in its prime condition.

Unfortunately, there are times when these repairs aren’t really helping. On the contrary, they can be detrimental to your car. There are also instances when you might deliberately ignore certainly. In order to avoid these car repair mistakes, it’s wise that you familiarize yourself with them.

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• Civic Tuning Made Easy

    With an abundance of performance parts, Civic tuning can be a fun and relatively simple task to perform. The Honda Civic has been on the road since 1972, therefore, there is a huge market for tuner parts for these vehicles. This article will outline some of the most common upgrades for your Civic and the basic cost of these upgrades.

    Search on Yahoo and type in “Civic air intake” and you will be notice thousands of websites offering all kinds of parts. You need to know where to start though. This all depends on what you are looking to achieve. Assuming you want to stick with a nicely tuned street car, you should always start by allowing as much cold air to reach the intake as possible. Cold air is denser than warm air. Therefore, it burns the fuel much more efficiently. That being said, you should start with a cold air intake. Do not be fooled by a basic ram air intake, as that only helps throttle response. Spend the extra money and go with full cold air. A cold air intake has a long tube that runs underneath the engine compartment, away from the ambient heat, and brings cold air from below up to the intake. Make certain to wrap the intake tubing with an insulator to prevent heat soak from the engine. A key note with cold air intakes is that you should not expect huge power gains from this. Most of the gain will be low end throttle response. The average cost of a good cold air intake is between $250 and $450, and it is installed relatively easily.

    Another good place to begin your civic tuning is allowing the engine to “exhale” as well. This means it is time to rid your vehicle of that restrictive exhaust. Keep in mind, there are many different brands of exhaust with many different levels of quality. A little extra money now can save you a disappointing result after installation. A common misconception is that the larger the exhaust the better. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. There is a fine line between too small and too big when it comes to the diameter of the exhaust. Another tip is to purchase the entire exhaust at one time. Putting a header onto a factory exhaust, or aftermarket exhaust on a factory manifold can be counter-productive as there is still restriction. Your price for a good header, high flow catalytic converter and a cat-back system will be between $1,000 and $1,500.

    Those are the two most common and the most “bang for the buck” tuner options for your Honda Civic. Once you have maximized the vehicle’s horsepower with direct bolt on components, it may be time to add more. These other options are turbo charging, head work, balancing and blueprinting the engine and transmission tuning. All of these require a lot of knowledge and skill so it is recommended to consult a professional before attempting these modifications.

    Now that you have the basic knowledge to add some performance to your Honda Civic, it is time to do some research and find the best parts for you.


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Schaeffler reveals closer ties between REPXPERT and The Garage Inspector

Schaeffler (UK) has described Andy Savva as the ‘perfect role model for any workshop owner’ after the original equipment manufacturer revealed that The Garage Inspector will be working closer with its REPXPERT members.

Andy supported the REPXPERT team at the recent Autoinform Live event in Glasgow by providing visitors with valuable advice on how to build their workshop brand and profile, while also offering tips and best practice techniques on how to make their business as profitable as it can be.
REPXPERT users can now find free and exclusive clips on the REPXPERT portal, where The Garage Inspector can be seen sharing his ‘top tips’ on how to grow a successful workshop business.

Schaeffler Technical Services Manager, Malcolm Short, said: “Andy is a figurehead within the industry; his experience and know-how will make a positive difference to the fortunes of our REPXPERT users, who, perhaps, are in need of extra support in running a busy workshop business.

“Over the coming months, REPXPERT users should check the ‘The Garage Inspector’ page for helpful insights and tips on how to improve their business.”

The Garage Inspector, Andy Savva, added: “I am so excited to be asked by the REPXPERT team to share my business knowledge with its members. Running a successful independent garage can sometimes be a little overwhelming, as they are very demanding places.

“Customers and colleagues expect so much – and help is not always there for workshops when it is most needed – and this is where I can help with business support and advice. I am someone who has owned and managed large successful garages, so I understand more than anyone about the day-to-day challenges owners and their team are faced with. I hope to bridge the gap with my business tips and, indeed, my one-day business training days.”


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How to prevent a cold in a baby

a cold

To prevent a cold in a baby you just have to take into account some basic care. While it is impossible to avoid 100% exposure to viruses, some recommendations can be very useful to minimize the risk, especially on cold days.

It is important to consider that the baby’s immune system is delicate and is not yet fully developed. Therefore, being close to sick people or keeping in risk environments can trigger the characteristic symptoms of this disease.

The most worrisome is that breathing difficulties cause some complications because the baby can not rest well and is susceptible to more careful diseases such as bronchitis or pneumonia. What are the measures to avoid it? Point!

Symptoms to recognize a cold in a baby

The symptoms of a cold in a baby can be similar to those of the flu or other respiratory diseases. However, they usually pass without a high fever and, although they require attention, do not represent something serious. The most common include:a cold

  • Transparent mucus that, with the days, acquires a yellowish or greenish color.
  • Constant sneezing
  • Mild throat pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleeping problems.
  • Restless breathing or wheezing.
  • General decay.
  • A soft cough
  • Diarrhea and vomiting.

You may also like: Vomiting in children: how to act?

Tips to prevent a cold in a baby

The recommendations to prevent a cold in a baby are easy to apply and have to do with lifestyle. Although they can not avoid all colds, they do manage to reduce the number of infections throughout the year. Here we review the most important ones:

Breastfeedinga cold

Breastfeeding is one of the best natural solutions to strengthen the defenses of babies. Therefore, constant feeding is key to the prevention of colds. Breast milk contains antibodies that create a barrier against germs.

Avoid contact with patients

To the extent possible, try to prevent the baby from coming into contact with a person with the flu or cold. Since the risk of infection is high, exposure to the same environment can trigger the disease.

Keep the baby warm

Sudden changes in temperature are a risk factor for childhood respiratory diseases. Therefore, to prevent a cold in a baby should maintain a regular temperature, preferably warm. Of course, you should not overcook.

Feed it healthy

If the baby is already at the stage where he can start taking food, he can be given fruits and vegetables as a preventative of diseases. In this particular case, those that provide vitamin C, which is key to immune health, are recommended.

Wash your hands frequentlya cold

One of the most effective measures to prevent a cold in a baby is to wash hands constantly, especially before having any contact. Keep in mind that hands touch many surfaces that may contain germs. Therefore, they are a main route of contagion.

Avoid closed places

In times of colds, it is better to avoid closed places such as shopping centers, restaurants or nurseries. The environments of these places facilitate the spread of the virus, since there may be one or several sick people.

Ensure good hydration

During the first six months of life, breast milk or formula ensures optimal hydration. However, after this time, it is essential to incorporate other moisturizing drinks such as water or fruit juices.

Avoid tobacco smokea cold

The smoke that gives off the cigarette is one of the worst enemies of the respiratory health of babies. Therefore, when parents smoke inside the house there is more risk of colds, bronchitis, and respiratory failure. It is recommended to avoid any exposure to tobacco smoke.

Ventilate the home

The air in the home needs to be “renewed” because it can accumulate harmful particles and viruses that affect health. Consequently, it is essential to open doors and windows several minutes a day and to do a good general hygiene to remove the dust.

Avoid medicationa cold

A medication without the supervision of the pediatrician can have negative effects on the health of the baby. It is not correct to administer medications at the first sign of a cold. In fact, many professionals suggest other care before resorting to drugs.

Do you notice any of the symptoms of a cold in your baby? Watch it constantly and take the temperature. If there is a fever or any warning signal, consult a doctor.

We also recommend you to read this article:

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Slurpee Snot Suckers!

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

On every shelf in our house at the moment we seem to have some slime or putty ready to be grabbed and played it. With this is mind when the emailed titled Slurpee Snot Suckers popped in to my inbox I just knew the boys would love it! These gruesome, slimey and gooey toys will be much loved in found in stockings this Christmas!

They sent us a snotty bogey green Winter survival kit which the boys dived into as soon as it arrived! Along with some of these amazing snot suckers they included socks, lip balm, hand warmer, blanket, hat and mug – perfect for the eldest who leaves for school in the next village before sun up every morning! 4 Slurpee Snot Suckers were included each in a different colour and each with the relevant colour slime pack of 30g.

Each of the boys were in hysterics almost immediately from opening up the Slurpees and we even had to facetime Nanny to show her the delights of snot disappearing up a nose and coming back out again! I don’t think she was impressed as the boys! The slime included with each carrier was slightly runnier than the other slimes we’ve played with which of course makes it perfect for being really snotty! The actual slurpees are squeezable characters each with a big nose. They are empty inside which allows you to squeeze the snot up inside them as they inflate. If you get the timing right, you can make them fart out their nose too!

Wonderfully gross these toys have kept the boys fascinated for days. They snot sucked up all round the house and have had a great time in the bath too! They managed to freak out and have our car share kids in hysterics all the way to school and all demanding for their own! These are a great pocet money or stocking present at coming in under £5.
Available nationwide from The Entertainer, Argos, Smyths and Toymaster rrp £4.99 each

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Sunday, April 16, 2006

The weather in Israel at this time is often characterized by hot winds. In Hebrew the more "proper" name is sharav שרב - but the popular name is the Arabic hamsin (or khamsin). The name hamsin has nothing to do with the Hebrew word cham חם - hot.

The word hamsin in Arabic actually means fifty. This derives from an Arabic tradition that there are 50 days of these hot winds. Judaism has a similar tradition. To understand this, it's important to note that despite Hebrew words for the four seasons known in English, the climate in the Land of Israel really only includes two seasons - summer and winter. Between each season there is a transitional period that is a very sensitive time for agriculture. Untimely heat, rain or winds can cause great damage to the crops. As part of the prayer for a successful transition, both periods include mitzvot that involve waving in all the directions of the wind. The Rabbis explain both the waving of the lulav and the omer as connected to a prayer that the winds be favorable.

The transition from winter to summer is longer than the one six months later, and therefore is more sensitive. Prof Jacob Milgrom notes:

that counting betrays anxiety. The spring harvest coincides with the end of the rainy season but also with the onset of a period when Israel is often buffeted by the hot, dry east wind called Sirocco, blowing across Egypt. The contemporary Israeli name for this feared phenomenon is Hamsin, which derives from the Arabic word hamsun and is related to the Hebrew cognate hamishim, all meaning 50. The Mishna preserves the ancient angst: "At Passover the world is judged in terms of the grain harvest." Hence, from April to June (roughly a 50-day period), the earth's bounty stands in jeopardy of being depleted by the withering winds of a Hamsin.

Each day counted therefore constitutes both thanks to God that the previous days passed without damage to the crops, and a prayer that the remaining days will be successful.

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Colombian companies must register workers online

11 Nov 14

What is the change? Colombia has launched a new online system for employers of foreign nationals to report on the status of their workers. The new system has specific measures in place for foreign workers in positions that require licensing in Colombia (e.g., attorneys, business people, and engineers).

What does the change mean? Notification of a foreign national’s start and termination dates must now be completed through the online process rather than in person. Company representatives or third-party immigration providers will be required to register for the new system on Migración Colombia’s website.

  • Implementation timeframe:Immediate and ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected:Any visa or permit required to work in Colombia.
  • Who is affected:Foreign nationals and employers of foreign nationals working in Colombia, including foreign nationals holding visas that do not require corporate sponsorship (such as Mercosur, Resident and TP-10 visas).
  • Impact on processing times:Registering for the website should take three business days. Ultimately, the online system will allow for faster immigration-related updates on foreign nationals working in Colombia.
  • Business impact:Employers will have to invest a small amount of time to register for the new system (or hire a third party to do it for them). The new system should also have a business impact by helping root out foreign nationals working in Colombia without proper documentation or licensure.
  • Next steps:Employers or their third-party providers should register on Migración Colombia’s website as soon as possible.

Background: The new online system is designed to enforce registration documentation and professional licensing requirements. Employers or their representatives must register by uploading their company’s Certificate of Existence and Legal Representation as well as identification cards of the company’s legal representatives. Once Colombian officials have been notified that a foreign national has started work for the company, the company or its representative is required to upload a letter signed by the employer’s legal representative, a procedure that previously was done in person. When the employee in question requires a professional license, the license’s validity will also be checked as part of the notification process.

Foreign nationals who hold visas that do not require corporate sponsorship are also required to register. In such cases, both the employer and employee are required to notify Colombian authorities of the employee’s start and end dates.

BAL Analysis: The new online registration requirements present employers with a small logistical hurdle to clear in properly registering foreign workers. The program could help Colombia root out employees who do not have the proper documentation or licensure. Employers in Colombia should register on Migración Colombia’s website as soon as possible to avoid any difficulties.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Colombia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact


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MYXpats Centre to begin accepting 2018 foreign worker projections

25 Sep 17

What is the change? The Malaysia Expatriate Talent Service Centre will soon begin accepting projections from ESD-registered companies on their 2018 needs for foreign knowledge workers.

What does the change mean? Companies that are registered with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) should prepare to submit their requests for foreign workers for 2018.

  • Implementation time frame: The MYXpats Centre will begin accepting projections Oct. 1.
  • Visas/permits affected: Employment passes; professional visit passes.
  • Who is affected: ESD-registered companies planning on hiring foreign knowledge workers in 2018.

Background: Foreign knowledge worker projections must be approved before companies can apply for employment passes or professional visit passes. ESD-registered companies may begin submitting foreign knowledge worker projections to the MYXpats Centre beginning Oct. 1. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corp. has not yet said when it will begin accepting projections from MDEC-registered companies.

BAL Analysis: Companies should submit their foreign-worker projections for 2018 as early as possible and well before the end of the year if they intend to apply for employment passes or professional visit passes by the beginning of 2018. Companies expecting to hire large numbers of foreign workers should also anticipate the possibility of prolonged timelines if they are asked to submit additional documentation to support their requests for foreign workers.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Malaysia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact


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Analytics, Estonia, Legislation, Society

International Internet Magazine. Baltic States news & analytics Sunday, 17.02.2019, 08:02

Marina Kaljurand widely supported as potential next President of Estonia

BC, Tallinn, 26.08.2015.Print version
According to a survey carried out by polling company TNS Emor, Marina Kaljurand is the most popular candidate for the post of the President of the Republic among the people, writes LETA/Postimees.

Estonia will get a new President in slightly less than a year, and TNS Emor polled 1,203 Estonian residents in face-to-face interviews and over the Internet, to find out whom the people might support.

From among the list of candidates proposed by the polling company, current Minister of Foreign Affairs Marina Kaljurand was the most popular one with 14.3%. She was the preferred candidates among people of Estonian origin, among women, those with secondary education, middle aged and the elderly and of medium income.

Ranking second among candidates is Mayor of Tallinn Edgar Savisaar (13.2%), more preferred by non-Estonians, men, and residents of Tallinn and the Ida-Viru County.

Third most popular candidate is Siim Kallas (11.2%), who is the favourite among Estonian residents with higher education and of higher income.

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303Lowe Brings Captain Risky To The Skies For New Budget Direct Campaign

303Lowe Brings Captain Risky To The Skies For New Budget Direct Campaign

Captain Risky has taken to the skies with a new daredevil stunt for Budget Direct Car & Home Insurance.

The ad, created by 303 Lowe Sydney, follows the launch of Budget Direct’s Captain Risky campaign in January this year.

The ad continues to build on the fact that Budget Direct doesn’t insure Captain Risky to keep prices low, by showcasing that the insurance brand have been awarded the prestigious 2015 Money magazine Insurer of the Year Award.

In the new execution, Captain Risky is so impressed that Budget Direct has won the award that he tries to outdo them – with risky consequences.

Jonathan Kerr, director, marketing and digital, Budget Direct, said, “Budget Direct being named Money magazine’s Insurer of the Year 2015 is a huge endorsement of the value that we deliver to our customers. I can see why Captain Risky has thrown down the gauntlet in his latest stunt.”

Advertiser: Budget Direct

Director, Marketing & Digital: Jonathan Kerr

General Manager, Marketing & Digital – Customer Acquisition & Partnerships: Paul Duggan

Campaign Manager, Marketing & Digital: Jenni Osborne

Agency: 303Lowe Sydney

ECD: Richard Morgan

Copywriter: Sean Larkin

Art Director: Adam Whitehead

Agency Producer: Louise Reimnitz

Head of Business Management: Tony Dunseath

Business Director: James Lammert

Producers: GoodOil

Director: Hamish Rothwell

Executive Producer: Sam Long

DoP: Crighton Bone

VFX & Supervisor: Colin Renshaw (ALT VFX)

Editor: Peter Sciberras (Method Studios)

Sound Engineer: Myles Lowe (Song Zu)

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