text:
Friday, May 24, 2013

Six Things You Can Do Today to Improve WordPress!

Over the years that I've written online, I've used various platforms.
Like a lot of people, I started out with LiveJournal. I've also dabbled with tumblr, for about two seconds I had a Vox account, and a few years ago I registered my own Blogger - which I still continue to use.
Since Blogger, I have also become a user of WordPress, which very quickly became my go-to for blogging needs. The most difficult thing about WordPress is how incredibly sharp of a learning curve there is in learning to use it.
So today, I'm sharing six things that I recommend doing to all WordPress blogs - whether they're freshly made, or just looking for a quick face lift!

    1. Deactivate and then delete all of the plugins you don't like, or aren't using.
    Benefit: Not only will your blog run faster, it will also be more secure! One of the most well-known ways of compromising WordPress blogs are through deactivated files that haven't yet been deleted, so cut your chances from the get go and get those files gone.
    2. Change the default settings on your Permalinks page
    Benefit: Your posts will rank higher in SEO.
    WordPress default (for some reason) is to file your posts by /year/month/date/your-post-name. Change it to just /your-post-name and your content will automatically become more likely to be crawled successfully by Google's search index program.
    3. Limit yourself in categories, not Tags
    Benefit: Your content will be easier to discover.
    Think about your categories as genres, and your tags as ways to narrow those genres down. This will allow your reader to discover more content (via category), yet still find specific content when they want it (via tag).
    4. Make WordPress work for you and your content!
    Benefit: You can spend more time writing, promoting, and networking.
    Install an Editor's Calendar plug-in to schedule posts ahead of time, find social network plug-ins so your content is automatically published to Twitter, Google, and Facebook, and automate as much SEO as you can! Make your blog "work for you" and you'll cover more ground in success in a shorter amount of time.
    5. Remove your beginning widgets, and start fresh
    Benefit: Your blog will have a cleaner, more customized look
    Removing your starter widgets will allow you to decide the flow of your website that you'd most like your reader to follow. What is more important to you for your reader to see first: Instagram photos? Your pins?
    Also, remember to remove the "meta" widget. Not only do you not really need to display it, if you do, you'll basically be showcasing a direct link to your admin panel to those who may use it for not-so-nice purposes.
    6. Start adding META information to each image
    Benefit: Increased ranking in Google Image Search
    When you upload post photos or graphics, type in some keywords or even an image caption into the various ALT values that are there. Google will scan through your keywords whenever someone searches with Google Images, and can potentially be a great source of traffic if you nail the right words!

That's it! My six favourite tips. What are yours? Feel free to leave your own in the comments.

Pin It

  1. This is so helpful, especially #3! Thanks :)

  2. Your all given details looks like awesome, definitely i have no words to describe it, and what you accept about thoughts of a person who lose his whole business and needs a way for stand up? for this i have launched a website and also i have done everything which many people's are finding also you can visit my web page at Improve at things and i am fully hoped you will also share your latest ideas with me.

  3. "This is just the information I am finding everywhere. Thanks for your blog, I just subscribe your blog. This is a nice blog. " ForWPThemes

  4. It is extremely helpful for me. Thank you for taking the time to discuss this,Commercial Real Estate Review. I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information.
    clipping path services

  5. I have never ever come across such a wonderful piece of information. Today I am proud to say that I have finally gain knowledge on this topic and here on I shall also spread the same preaching ahead so that the world become a better place to live in.
    clipping path

  6. Wonderful tips, i dont know about Permalinks page, but it is very easy to clear in my website.
    image editing service | ecommerce image editing service


Content-Type: application/http; msgtype=response

WARC-Identified-Payload-Type: text/html

WARC-Type: response

text:
Wednesday, May 16, 2007

He’s Free

Fantastic news today. A friend and colleague who’s been in the Sapporo detention center awaiting trial was freed today on bail. He’s been there since mid-February, which is about 3 months of seeing nothing but the walls of his tiny cell, except for an occasional walk on the roof and a 10-minute visit in a cubicle with friends or family on weekdays that weren’t holidays. I’m sure he’s more appreciative of the gorgeous spring weather today than any of us.

The trial is still to come. Since he’s pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana (grown in the woods for the purpose of relieving pain from a serious back injury), these are the last days he’ll ever spend in Hokkaido, a place he’s grown very fond of. What his sentence will be remains to be seen. The worst case scenario is that he’d be imprisoned in Tokyo where he wouldn’t be allowed visitors. I can’t imagine what mental state he’d be in once he was released if that were to happen.

At any rate, he’s out for the time being – and able to enjoy his freedom with his girlfriend and his parents, who flew here for the hearings and trial (and who, incidentally, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last Friday). Fortunately, there hasn’t been anything about the hearings in either the Japanese or English media, so he’s been saved that bit of infamy.

No comments:

warcinfo:
robots: classic
hostname: ip-10-164-221-253.ec2.internal
software: Nutch 1.6 (CC)
isPartOf: CC-MAIN-2017-43
operator: Common Crawl Admin
description: Wide crawl of the web for October 2017
publisher: Common Crawl
format: WARC File Format 1.0
conformsTo: http://bibnum.bnf.fr/WARC/WARC_ISO_28500_version1_latestdraft.pdf


text:
I decided several years ago that I would retire in 2016 but I just can't do it! But I am going to semi-retire so I have closed down my website and hopefully those of you who were not on my mailing list and came back to order a pattern, found my website was gone and googled Cabin Creek might find my blog!
I am listing patterns on Etsy, not everything but if you remember something you put off buying just contact me and I'll still draw it for you. I am currently only drawing on monks cloth.
The Dorr Mill store also carries some of my patterns.
How to find my patterns...
At the side bar on this blog you will see thumbnails of my Etsy shop, you can click on that.
Or search online for The Dorr Mill Store and click on patterns and then click on Cabin Creek Designs (they still have some of mine on linen!)
Or email me at
I'm also on Facebook, just search Cabin Creek
I accept checks or PayPal.
Thanks for understanding, I just dragged out my hooking project that I haven't touched since January 2013, I miss it and need to get back to what started me on this pattern business journey. (And maybe I'll get back to posting on this blog!!!)

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

I started hooking a new design that I've named Wildwood.

This pattern is loaded with flowers and for those of you who get bored with a lot of background...this has very little.

A close up of the first flower...

And a peek at the wools in the yellow-gold flower along with the background wool.
The darkest gold on the right is the gold in the middle of the petals, the palest gold 3rd form the right is the outline of each petal.

I'm hooking on Dorr's primitive natural linen using a #6 cut.
I love hooking on this backing, I've been using monk's cloth but I think I'll be using this backing from now on.

And of course my color planner...she helps me every step of the way!

I'll keep posting pictures of the rug and wool as I go along....thanks for stopping!

(pattern will be available on my website soon)

Kim said...

It looks beautiful. Is this your own design?

twoives said...

You are just starting and I already love this design. I'm a flower freak...painting, hooking....

Julia said...

I love this rug. The colors are so nice. It's going to look beautiful. JB

Gayle said...

Delightful! I love the design and the colors - you hook beautifully!

Connie said...

This is going to be beautiful. I love the colors you have chosen. Can't wait to see more!

Tutti Chic said...

What gorgeous work you happy I found your blog! :) chris

Melanie Pinney and American Pie said...

Faye, I've been allocated 5 sites to award a Liebster Blog Award for inspiration and interest. I love your blog, so thought you should share this award too. Please check back to my blog to copy the award button and pass it on. Best wishes! --Melanie

Sandi said...

Your design is wonderful Faye :)

Liz @ the Brambleberry Cottage said...

Oh, Faye, your work is just beautiful! I can't wait to see the finished product. I have a number of hooked rugs. One, in particular, has a few bare spots, thanks to one of my dogs. Maybe I'll figure out how to fix it one day. ;)

Liz @ The Brambleberry Cottage

Eileen said...

This is beautiful Faye, the still my heart!

Liz @ the Brambleberry Cottage said...

You do such beautiful work, Faye! I would love to watch you make a rug - from start to finish. It looks quite fascinating.

Liz @ The Brambleberry Cottage


WARC-Truncated: length

text:
Lemongrass Express now available by the bottle at your local grocery store

We offer 10 tantalizing flavors plus seasonals so your tastebuds won’t ever get bored

Flavor Lineup

The best kombucha starts with the best ingredients

 kegs available for delivery to your home, office or special event

 1/6 barrel, 1/2 barrel & our caboost 2.5L hobo keg in any of our tasty flavors

 we support our community!  contact us to Donate for your charitable  event

  Free growler fill on your birthday at our brewery!

Come meet our family

Mike Eliot

brewery operations & Founder

Kris Romaine

head brewer & Founder

First Class Kombucha

We are your First Class Ticket to the the best-tasting kombucha around.

Live, Authentic, Raw

That means the naturally-occurring probiotics that make kombucha so great, are alive and abundant. We do not pasteurize or heat our kombucha which can kill and reduce the potentency of all the good stuff.  Keeping Caboost Kombucha raw, the beneficial and good bacteria remain intact to ensure our kombucha is authentic.

First Class Flavors

Our flavors are more than just a clever name. Our recipes were carefully crafted using real, whole foods from herbs, roots and fruits to not only bring unique taste, but healthful benefits. Each ingredient was specifically chosen for the flavor it offers, as well as it’s nutritional properties.

First Class Ingredients

We strive to use ingredients from local, non-gmo or organic sources. Pristine Cascade mountain water we are so fortunate to be the beneficiary of here in Central Oregon is then filtered again in our brewery. Our signature tea blend culminates premium teas grown around the world – Oolong, Gunpowder green tea  and early-picked White tea tea lends maximum antioxidants.

First Class Service

Your business is our business! It’s our promise to provide first class customer service to every Caboost customer. We strive to meet your needs at all times. Our kombucha is always guaranteed to please, so if you ever have an issue, please let us know so we can make it right.


WARC-Identified-Payload-Type: application/xhtml+xml

text:
I've been A.W.O.L.

and I forgot to bring my camera!

The best babysitter in the world (my mom) is in town, so Brad and I took a little getaway.

Here's a brief rundown of our travels:

We stayed at the Seaview Resort near Atlantic City. It's a great old hotel. Beautifully restored with 2 golf courses, lots of pools, clay tennis courts and a spa with all the amenities.

My first stop...The Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon for a Signature Facial and Lactic Acid Peel. Sooo relaxing, and just look how young I look!!!

For the first time in 2 years I played golf.

We played 18 holes on the Seaview Bay Course. It was fun hanging out with Brad, but I'm not sure I have the attention span for 18 holes. 9 holes is about my speed. We used a golf cart, but I'm still so sore!! I guess hitting a golf club at full speed into the grass about 200 times will take a toll on your muscles! If it wasn't so expensive I would have headed back to the spa for a massage!

After golf we headed to the Borgata in Atlantic City for sushi, drinks and blackjack....

I won $10. No lie. We played blackjack for 2 hours and I won $10. Better than losing right? And I LOVE blackjack...so we had a ball.

We ended our little couples retreat with a trip to Cape May where we had lunch at the Blue Pig Tavern. I had the most delicious lump crab and asparagus salad and Brad had a pulled pork sandwich which he thoroughly enjoyed. I have never had a pulled pork sandwich, and I have no desire to try it. The term "pulled pork" kind of freaks me out.
It sounds medieval.

So there you have it...

Sounds like an itinerary from "The Dating Game" doesn't it?

I deliberately left the laptop home so I wouldn't be tempted to spend any of my quality time with my husband surfing the net.

It was definitely the right decision.

Enough about me. What have you been up to?

What a difference a year makes...

Another USTA team tennis season has come and gone. As you recall, the last couple of years I had a TYRANT for a captain. I had an undefeated record, but she was still incredibly nasty to me.

She was an unsportsmanlike bully and I'm really surprised casting didn't snag her for "The Real Housewives of NJ."

This year, I chose to play under the leadership of the most, polite, adorable sweet woman. My record this year was NOT very good, but I had so much fun.

Here is her letter to the team after a really enjoyable, drama-free season.

Hi everyone,

Congratulations to everyone for a great season! This was our first year back together (with some very special new additions) and we had a winning season!

We had so many fun, competitive matches and we always showed our team spirit by staying to cheer our team mates on even when our matches were finished. Winning is always fun, but it's how we handle the losses and what we choose to do moving forward that means so much more. I am really looking forward to working hard and trying to improve my game for next year's season. I really loved being your captain and I am looking forward to celebrating with all of you.

On behalf of our team, I would also like to say a HUGE thanks to Bob! You are a great coach and are always inspiring us to do our best.
We look forward to the fall season and our clinics with you.

What a breath of fresh air!

Given the choice of an undefeated season under the leadership of a mean bitch, or a horrible record with a classy kind captain...I'll take the latter.

"You do not lead by hitting people over the head - that's assault, not leadership."

-Dwight D. Eisenhower

Sweet Victory

I'll explain later.

A Missed Opportunity

Hey! That's what I do when I'm on the potty...

As I've mentioned before. I joined "Freecycle" in hopes of snagging myself a treasure.

(Such as an antique armoire, or an Apple Laptop.) Thus far, I have not been successful.

Today, however, a real gem came in:

Toddler potty. It could use a good scrub. It was handy for park and beach trips. The seat if broken, but I believe it can be replaced.

You've got to be kidding me? I can have a dirty, feces encrusted potty, with a broken seat...FOR FREE???!!! I was elated.

But guess what? Of all the dumb luck. Someone else claimed it before I had a chance.

Life can be so unfair.

Some stuff I've been into...

What do I do when I'm lacking blog material??? Talk about "STUFF!"

Here is some stuff I like:

My J. Crew Straw Beach Bag...

I have other summer bags, but this is the one I carry ALL THE TIME.

And it's on sale for $29.50.

Go buy it...now. (After you finish commenting on this post.)

Clark's Artisan Collection...

I always pictured Clark's as gooberish looking walking shoes, but they have some really cool sandals.

I got these wedges (The Erda in Peanut) and they are so cute. They look exactly like a pair I saw at Anthropologie for $200 and they only set me back $65.

I've been trying to cut down on the caffeine/aspartame consumption and I've found a marvelous alternative. Herbal Iced Tea.

My favorite....Pomegranate. Runner up...passion fruit.

So good, no calories, no caffeine, cheap...what could be better?

How about you? Any cool stuff you want to share with the class?

I just remembered Cr8buzz!! Do you guys still do it?? I used to be so concerned about my "Buzz Ranking!" Weird.

Is it still around? I can't even find it.

What's the 4-11?!

The next entry in the writer's notebook...

Continuing on with my daughter's writing.

This one had me rolling on the floor...

A Complaint to McDonald's

Oh McDonald's

Why Are You So Fattening?

You only give toys to make money

Not to make little kids happy

You are just plain nasty

What if a person gets food poisoning from you?

Then how much would people like you?

You are unhealthy.

Someone told me your water is dirtier than toilet water.

So McDonald's...

The only good thing about you is...

Thank you-Meg

P.S. Burger King is better.

I swear, I think I'm going to have her write my blog from now on. She is way funnier than me!!

My daughter, the comedienne...

I was going through my 9 year old daughter's school stuff and came across her writer's notebook.

There are some real gems in there.

Here's the first one.

Why Mickey Mouse is Better than Donald Duck.

1. He never does bad things.

2. Unlike Donald, he wears pants

3. Disney likes him.

4. He has knives, but he only uses them for cooking, not when he is mad at people.

5. He has no anger issues.

I will be featuring more of her writing in upcoming posts. Trust me, this one cracked me up, but she has WAY better material.

Stay tuned.

Aunt Flo

Warning: If you are a man...stop reading now. You have been warned.

My Aunt Flo is visiting, and quite frankly I can't stand the bitch. Especially the first two days of her visit.

I'm seriously considering ablation. My husband and I were discussing my feminine issues, and we both decided that 2-3 days a month is way to much for BOTH of us to suffer.

In the meantime, I was looking up some homeopathic remedies, until I can see the doc.

Now here's my question...since I have almost ALL these symptoms, do I buy ALL the remedies? (Symptoms in bold and italic are especially problematic for yours truly...)

Bovista: Premenstrual problems with puffiness in the extremities, fluid retention, and a bloated feeling often indicate a need for this remedy. The woman may feel very awkward and clumsy, and may constantly be dropping things because of swollen-feeling hands. Diarrhea occurring around the time of the menstrual period strongly indicates this remedy.

Calcarea carbonica: PMS with fatigue, anxiety, and suggest a need for this remedy. The woman may have problems with water-retention and weight gain, tender breasts, digestive upsets, and headaches. Periods often come too early and last too long, sometimes with a flow of bright red blood. A general feeling of chilliness, with clammy hands and feet, and a feeling of being overwhelmed cravings for sweets and eggs are other indications for Calcarea.

Caulophyllum: This remedy is often helpful to women with a history of irregular periods, difficulty becoming pregnant, or slow childbirth due to weak muscle tone of the uterus. Symptoms include discomfort during periods and a heavy flow of blood or other discharge. Drawing pains may be felt in the pelvic region, thighs, and legs. Stiffness or arthritis, especially in the finger-joints, often is seen when this remedy is needed.

Chamomilla: A woman likely to respond to this remedy is angry, irritable, and hypersensitive to pain. Cramping may come on, or be intensified, because of emotional upset. Flow can be very heavy, and the blood may look dark or clotted. Problems are often worse at night. Heating pads or exposure to wind may aggravate the symptoms, and motion (such as rocking or brisk walking) may help to reduce the tension and discomfort.

Cimicifuga (also called Actaea Racemosa): This remedy can be helpful for irregular and painful periods, with shooting pains that go down the hips and thighs, or cramps similar to labor-pains that are felt in the pelvic area. Headache with pain and stiffness in the neck and back will often occur with PMS. The woman is likely to be intense and talkative, becoming agitated, fearful, and depressed before a menstrual period.

Kreosotum: Headache, nausea, and a heavy flow that makes the genitals and surrounding skin feel irritated and swollen are indications for this remedy. Kreosotum is often indicated for women with PMS who feel irritable and uncomfortable, and have a strong dislike of sexual activity.

Lachesis: Women who need this remedy are usually intense, with a tremendous need for an outlet, both physically and mentally. Symptoms of PMS include congestion, headaches, flushing, surges of heat, and an intense outspoken irritability—often with strong feelings of suspicion or jealousy. When the flow arrives, it may be heavy, but brings relief of tension. Intolerance of restrictive clothing around the waist or neck is another indication for Lachesis.

Lilium tigrinum: This remedy may be helpful if a woman is inclined toward rage during PMS, makes other people “walk on eggs,” and is extremely sensitive and irritable. Pressure in the rectum and in the pelvic region, with a sensation that the uterus is pushing out, may make her feel a frequent need to sit or cross her legs. Emotions and excitement aggravate the symptoms, and fresh air will often bring relief.

Lycopodium: PMS with a craving for sweets and a ravenous appetite (sometimes a bulimic tendency) suggests a need for this remedy. Digestive upsets with abdominal bloating and flatulence are often seen, with the person feeling worst in the late afternoon and evening. Menstrual periods may be delayed, followed by a heavy flow that goes on for extra days. A woman who needs this remedy often wears a worried look and lacks self-confidence—although she may be irritable and bossy to pets and family members. A desire to be alone, but with someone in the other room, is another indication for Lycopodium.

Nux vomica: When a woman with PMS is extremely this remedy may be of use. Uncomfortable, irregular menstrual periods can be experienced, often with a nagging urge to move the bowels before the flow begins. Constipation is common, and constricting pains may extend to the rectum or tailbone region. Anger, mental strain, physical exertion, and impatient, pushy, and intolerant,overindulgence in coffee, alcohol, or food can aggravate the problems. The woman often feels chilly and improves from warmth and rest.

Sepia: A woman who needs this remedy with PMS feels weary and dragged-out, wanting others (especially family members) to keep their distance. She often feels taken for granted and overworked, becoming irritable or sarcastic if demands are made. Late periods or scanty flow with a feeling that the pelvic floor is weak, or as if the uterus is sagging, often indicates a need for Sepia. Dampness and perspiring may aggravate the symptoms. Warmth and exercise, especially dancing, often restore some energy and brighten up the her mood.

Veratrum album: Menstrual periods with very heavy flow and cramping, with a feeling of exhaustion and icy coldness suggest a need for this remedy. Vomiting and diarrhea are often seen. Periods may start too early and go on too long. The woman feels worse at night, from exercise, and from drinking things that are warm. Cold drinks, small meals, and wrapping up in warm clothes or covers may help to bring improvement.

Okay, so let's go over what my loved ones and myself deal with 20-30 days a year.

I feel overwhelmed with strong cravings for sweets. I am angry and irritable with a heavy flow of blood. I am agitated, fearful, and depressed, with a headache and backache. I am intensely outspoken with an inclination towards rage. I am bossy towards pets and family members. I have a strong desire to be alone. I am impatient, pushy, and intolerant,and overindulgent in coffee (and Diet Coke.) I feel taken for granted and overworked, becoming irritable or sarcastic if demands are made. I also experience cramping diarrhea and exhaustion.
If you're a man, and you read all this...would you kill me or what?! No court would convict you.

If you're a woman, can you relate?

I think I'll go mix me up a Midol cocktail, with a side of Valium. Come to think of it, I'll mix up a pitcher for the whole family.

Things could be worse...

I belong to "Freecycle" and my e-mail in-box is always full of offers, most of which are pure crap.

Here's one I got today...

Offer: Large Lot of Books

"He's Just Not That Into You."

"What Should I do with My Life?"

"How to be Alone."

"The 100 Simple Secrets of Happy People."

"Quarterlife Crisis"

Damn. And here I was getting all despondent because I lost a few tennis matches.

Things could be worse...MUCH worse.

Answer to the Kate Gosselin photo question...

I'm back from my beach weekend with the gals, and believe it or not...I behaved.

I will post a hilarious photo from the weekend, but I'm too lazy to download it now...so you'll have to wait.

I know you've all been waiting for my answer as to what's UNUSUAL about Kate's bikini photos.

I have to say, we have quite an observant bunch of readers here at Caffeine Court.

Yes, indeed, Kate's belly button is unusually high. Apparently that's what happens when you have a tummy tuck.

I think she looks awesome. Obviously she is well kept. Except for one area. My friend and her husband pointed out to me that Kate has a "bulge" in her bikini, which means one of two things...either she is A.) a hermaphrodite, or B.) too busy getting her hair dyed, tanning and getting a tummy tuck, to properly groom her "lady."

Since she's given birth we know the answer is B.)

Thanks for playing.

Beach Bound

As you might recall, a few months back my husband and I had a wild night in the "City of Brotherly Love" with my high school friends and their husbands. A great deal of tequila was consumed and my evening ended with my head in a sombrero puking my guts up.

Good times.

Tomorrow night, the ladies go solo at the shore.

I pray I survive.

I am charging my camera and I'll be sure to post photos of the big outing. Hopefully they will just be cute shots of a bunch of middle aged ladies sitting at a table smiling and not incriminating and humiliating images of me laying face down on a bathroom floor.

I CAN tell you that many of you have told me in no uncertain terms that my blog is getting really boring, and I intend to jazz it up.

You might be wondering what Kate Gosselin in a bikini has to do with my girl's weekend. I'll tell you what it has to do with it...My hostess for the weekend is very intrigued by the whole Jon and Kate saga and she pointed out something unusual about this photo.

In an effort to spice up my blog, I'm going to throw this out to you.

Do you notice anything strange in this photo???

I'll tell you when I get back from my mini Spring Break.

Footnote: Thank you Mrs. K...here is a profile shot you mentioned in your comment.

My new love...

Say hello to my little friend...the Wii Active Personal Trainer!!

So cool.

If you haven't seen it yet you have to check it out!

It have workouts consisting of strength exercises with resistance, cardio, and sports drills.

You can pick a personal trainer to work with and set up a 30 day challenge to get in shape.

I love it, and so does Brad. I only wish I had started the workouts sooner, like BEFORE team tennis started.

If I keep up with this I will be an ANIMAL next season.

The tennis ladies of NJ should be afraid...very, very afraid.

Insert evil, maniacal laugh here....

I am quite aware that I can be obsessive. Over the WRONG things. And I'm hoping to learn from it. As I sat at my laptop stressing out over total crap, I decided to hop on over to The NieNie Dialogues. I always keep the link on my sidebar. It's been awhile since I've read her blog and I realize that I need to go there each and every day.

What an absolutely incredible person. If you don't know who NieNie is, here's a brief description from her profile:

Stephanie Aurora Clark Nielson returns from a almost fatal plane crash. Happy to be blogging again from Utah and recovering too. Four happy children and one sweet husband make her life as good as it gets.

I can't even begin to describe how inspiring and amazing she is. She makes blogging, and life a true art form.

If you haven't been to her blog, hop on over.

And prepare to be in awe.

I lost another tennis match today. That makes all four of my singles matches this season. It was close, but I lost. And not because she was better than me. It's because I'm getting a loser complex and I didn't start going for it until well into the second set.

I'm a pathetic chicken.

Okay, I know, that's no way to think. Time to look on the bright side, yet again.

“What seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise” -Oscar Wilde

“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” -Arnold Schwarzegegger

“Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength.” Anonymous

“Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow.” - Mary Anne Radmacher

“Defeat is not the worst of failures. Not to have tried is the true failure.” - George E. Woodberry

I'm not going to lie. I'm really bummed, and I feel like I'm letting my team down.

My only saving grace is that I'm one of the only people on the team who agreed to play singles. Most people are afraid of singles, because it's hard, physically and emotionally. You're all alone out there and there is a ton of pressure. I'm not going to give up. Although I kind of want to.

Losing sucks.

I like to live dangerously!

My husband is very anxious since I posted a photo of the woman who beat me at tennis yesterday.

He has a vision of someone coming across my blog and calling her to inform her that the woman she played against (me) is a weirdo tennis stalker.

He envisions her coming to our house and demanding that I remove my blog post and get a life.

He then pictures me telling her to calm the hell down and punching her in the face. The end of his fantasy involves us coming to fisticuffs and wrestling around the yard in our short little tennis skirts while he watches.

Did I mention my husband is a perv??

Not again!!!

Okay, so I had another tennis match today. And I'll cut to the chase...I lost, AGAIN.

3-6, 6-4, 3-6. And I played even better than last week. I'm getting so much better. Why? Because I'm playing people who are so much damn better and more experienced that me!!!

This is who I lost to this week.

Seriously...she was "Mrs. Globe." Just picture her in a skimpy white tennis outfit, smashing a yellow ball at your face. Then you'll know what my morning was like. I probably could have won if the glare off her tiara wasn't so BLINDING!!

Oh well. Maybe next week I can lose to Miss Universe.

I need a martini. And some breast implants.

The moment you've been waiting for...

My last post really created a buzz in the blog world! 5 whole comments.

I must say, Zibbs came up with the most creative guess, I've NEVER heard of a "Crisco Disco", but that was not the answer I was looking for.

Anonymous actually came the closest. (Give yourself a big hand anonymous!)

If you call someone "Crisco" you are essentially calling them a tub of lard.

Here's one of the definitions from Urban Dictionary...

Crisco is a lard substitute that can be found in a large can, and it is also a term used to describe a woman with a large booty.
Although not immediately apparent, they can both be described as "fat in the can".

You: "How you doin', Crisco?"
Her: "Why you callin' me Crisco?"
You: "Cuz you fat in the can!"

My daughter's friend learned it from her mother, who is one of my friends and grew up in a big family on Staten Island. Her older brother always addressed her as "Crisco." (Damn, kids can be cruel!!! I guess what doesn't kill you makes you stronger and gives you character and a quick wit. ) My daughter and her friends do not actually use this term. Unlike their mothers, my daughter and her best friend are sweet as can be. (Although they do think it's pretty funny.)

So there you have it. I'll bet you'll never look at a can of Crisco without thinking of me.

That makes me very happy.

Website Content and Copy: Caffeine Court, 2007-8.|Blog Design by JudithShakes Designs.


text:
Thursday, July 7, 2011

i hope my future black children are half as adorable as him.

Eshaya Draper.
is he not adorable?!?

Have you ever seen college road trip?
i feel he steals the ENTIRE show with his adorable face and quick wit.
who wouldn't love that face?!
watch him be adorably smart in this video.
he is the cutest little black boy i have ever seen in my whole life.
can i please just take him home?
watch college road trip, you too will fall in love with that face.

Hippie Grandma said...

i hope you never forget how freaking fantastic you are.
and if i had been drinking a beverage when i read this post, i would've spit my beverage out of my mouth due to laughter at the title of this post.
.... if that makes sense.
haha. :)


text:
Art Mère / Art Père

This year I am fortunate enough to be part of an excellent art auction called Art Mère / Art Père. This fabulous event and auction are in support of LIVESTRONG, which is a very excellent charity that supports cancer survivors and those effected by cancer.

I am very psyched to be among the other artists who have donated art to this auction, and I hope you will check it out by clicking RIGHT HERE!

The online auction runs from September 21st to October 5th, and it is for a REALLY good cause, so please spread the word and maybe even bid on art! My contribution looks like this! Which when blown up looks like this...


text:
Skip to content
Skip to main content
Search events. View events.

All Categories

Submit Events

Welcome to the NC State University Public Events Calendar.

Click for help in using calendar displays. Print the contents of the current screen.

Advanced Search

(New Search)

Event Details
Add this event to my personal calendar.Email this event to a friend.
Go Back
Wine 4 the World
Start Date: 10/4/2013Start Time: 7:00 PM
End Date: 10/4/2013End Time: 9:00 PM

Event Description:
Join 4 the World for a unique fundraising event. Wine tastings for $5/person & raffle tickets for gourmet wine and cheese baskets. 100% of proceeds will be donated to 4 the World. Even better, when you "CHECK-IN" on your phone, Uncorked will make a donation to 4 the World on your behalf!
Contact Information:
Name: Shea
Phone: 919-995-2623
Admission Information:
Uncorked Restaurant is located at 10511 Shadowlawn Dr #111, Raleigh, NC.
Other Details:
4 the World is an international organization with a student chapter on NCSU campus.
Can't come to our event? Support us online! Go to and search: 4 the World. Special shout-out to our partners Check-in for Good and Uncorked!
Event URL:

Calendar Software powered by Dude Solutions
Select item(s) to Search
Select item(s) to Search
Select item(s) to Search
Select item(s) to Search


text:
WBAL Hearst advertising campaign pixel

Events Calendar

Book Discussion

Read and discuss My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante.

Saturday, April 22 at 10:15am

Orleans Street Branch
1303 Orleans Street Baltimore, MD 21231

Event Type

Book Discussions

Age Group

Adults, Seniors

Compass Category

Book Discussion

Google Calendar iCal Outlook

Recent Activity

Suggest a Program

More from Pratt

Compass, Sept-Oct 2017

Download Compass, the printed news and events calendar:

featuring highlights of the month ahead.

podcasts icon small Rspace
Listen to Podcasts


text:
Friday, March 9, 2012

Spring 2012 Calera AOK Review

Because of the incredible generosity of hundreds throughout Shelby and Jefferson county and even throughout the southeast, AOK was able to give over 500 people more than 20,000 items of clothing as well as thousands of other toys, household & miscellaneous items. By altering the number of people admitted at a time our ability to serve those in need was greatly improved. Allowing us to focus on helping each person find exactly what they needed. We limited the amount of time each group was able to shop to 30 minutes, but anyone still in need of items was encouraged to put their first items in their car and return to the line for a second opportunity to shop.

The remaining items were given to urban missions in Birmingham where hundreds of others will be blessed by the generosity of our community. Jason Williams, Briarwood Presbyterian Church's urban pastor to Fairfield, took all the clothing remaining in the men's department to a re-entry ministry called Shepherd's Fold in Birmingham. The clothing will be used to help equip men re-entering society from the prison system with needed items for job interviews and daily life.

We had over 135 volunteers during the final week of preparation and the giveaway. The desire of our community to give freely of their time, money and belongings is absolutely breathtaking! We were thrilled to welcome many new volunteers including groups from the University of Montevallo Baptist Student Ministry, youth groups from Chelsea and Calera as well as many members who have been with AOK for years. The local businesses helped tremendously by providing needed supplies. These sponsors also helped get the word out regarding the giveaway.

Calera AOK has a goal of collecting over 1000 stuffed animals between now and the Calera Christmas Parade in December. These stuffed animals will be used to give as gifts to the children along the parade route. AOK used the stuffed animals in the 2011 parade to help remind folks of the upcoming Spring Give Away. A card with the giveaway details is attached to each stuffed animal in hopes that those with a need will continue to be reached. If you have stuffed animals you would like to contribute please contact us at or 281-1975.

Even after the big event AOK continues to receive calls from those who either were unable to attend the giveaway or were not able to find exactly what they needed. What began as a once a year winter coat give away has now turned into a year round opportunity to help our neighbors in need. God has always provided all that was needed, He will continue to provide - we are expectant of what He will do next & how He will use Calera Acts of Kindness in the future.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Share throughout the Hispanic Community

Do you have contacts in the hispanic community? Would you help us share the news about Calera Acts of Kindness Clothing Give Away this Saturday, March 3rd - it begins at 8am at the Calera National Guard Armory! Help us get the word out - we can get you flyers if you need them - just email us at or call 281-1975

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Thankful for our Partners! Support them!

Our History

In the fall of 2005, Jenny Avery felt that God was laying a burden on her heart to meet a very basic need. She saw that there was a need in her community for winter coats. Out of this burden, a free coat give away was started. She recruited a few friends and fellow Calera neighbors, together Avery, Ellie Harrington and Sue Duncan planned the first give away. Through word of mouth, they received and gave away between seventy five and one hundred coats at the old Calera Library Annex
The following year, Duncan came up with the group’s name, Calera Community Acts of Kindness (AOK). The volunteers in 2006 increased to ten and approximately two hundred people were able to received coats and other winter clothing. This growth necessitated a move to a larger facility; in 2007 the giveaway was moved to the Calera Community Center.
Each year those volunteering grew. Their efforts were blessed with an abundance of clothes, with that increase the need of our community also grew. In 2010, the amazing leadership at the Calera National Guard invited us to use the National Guard Armory for our fall giveaway. It October of 2010, 856 people were blessed by the generous giving of clothing by hundreds in our community and through-out Shelby, Jefferson and Chilton Counties.

The City of Calera has always been an incredible supporter of this community service group. In March 2011, the Mayor and City Council declared March 5, 2011 as “Neighbors Helping Neighbors Day”. Through their declaration the entire city was encouraged to help their neighbors in need.
Calera AOK is no longer just a twice a year clothing give away. We receive calls on a regular basis from those in need. Whether here in Calera when a family’s home burned, or around the world when a Tsunami hit Japan, or back home when the State of Alabama was struck by a horrific string of tornadoes, or simply meeting the needs of a hard working mama who needed firewood, clothing and a few things to give her children for Christmas, Calera Acts of Kindness recognizes that we all are subject to hard times – we desire to wrap our arms around our neighbors during times of hardship.

Calera Acts of Kindness does not have nonprofit status. We are simply a group of individuals who since 2005 have come together to meet the clothing needs of those in our area who are struggling. We are not a 501C3, just neighbors helping neighbors throughout the year with the generous giving of time and needed supplies by hundreds of kindhearted citizens, fantastic companies, compassionate churches and our dedicated local government.
From friends, neighbors, or even to those we will never meet, we seek to meet the most basic of needs. Whether the need is right here or around the world, we desire to tangibly extend the love of Christ to those we serve, as well as those we work alongside.

For more information contact us at or call 205-281-1975 –
Find Calera Acts of Kindness Clothing Give Away on Facebook at or on Twitter @caleraaok

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Just around the corner!

This year's spring AOK will be here next week!

Because of your kindness we are able to facilitate giving clothing to hundreds of people! Now's the time, start cleaning those closets and spreading the news to those you know- both those in need and those who are able to give and volunteer!

We have our final planning meeting at the Calera Library this TUESDAY night, February 21st at 7pm. We welcome new volunteers! We have such a wonderful time together all while working hard! Come be a part of this amazing group!

Need info or would you like to volunteer? Contact us at


text:
Vote Now

5 Tips for Working from Home During the Summer

It’s hard for kids to understand the concept that ‘mommy or daddy has to work,’ especially in the summertime when fun is supposed to rule. Of course you can attempt to get everything done early in the morning or late at night while they sleep, but that doesn’t always work out. I’m often asked how I work from home while caring for my own five children, as well as having extra kids over during the summer. Here are a few of my own ideas for making summer work for everyone!

1. Trade care. My next door neighbor’s kid often knocks at my door to play while his dad is making work telephone calls from his own home. I’m a proofer/writer, so I can be interrupted and don’t need total silence, whereas his dad needs periods of absolute quiet to conduct his business. Believe it or not, tossing his kid into the mix often helps me out because now my kids have someone new to play with! If I take his kid a few days a week, he often reciprocates by watching my kids for a few hours on the weekend. If you have family who enjoys taking your child for a few hours and have a kid who can detach easily, take advantage of this!

2. Keep ‘em occupied. Google ‘indoor activities for kids’ when it’s super hot outside. Here’s one: Let them do a carpet picnic for lunch in front of the TV, and they’ll be happy for an hour! Perler beads are a great distraction, and same for fort-building. And if they are dying to get outside, just go mobile and take your laptop outside so you can supervise their fun while you get something done. It’s also a treat for the kids and work time for you if you take them to an indoor restaurant with a play place!

Keep that Kitchen Stocked! Also keep easy food choices stocked so the kids can fend for themselves for snacks and drinks. Juice pouches rock, as do granola bars, cut-up fruit, nuts, cheese slices and those crustless PB & Js.

3. Wear ‘em out. Get a bunch of work done in the morning, then take them out to the pool, a park, a nature centre, the zoo - anywhere for a few hours. They’ll be nice and tired when they get home and maybe you can even get them to take naps! I’ve never had luck with that, so I turn on a movie or some educational TV and let them watch while I get a nice hour of uninterrupted work time.

4. Teach them. I’m talking about chores here. There’s no reason you should be working a job and doing everything at home when the kids get to live there, eat there, sleep there and benefit in other ways from your income (or maybe you are just working to make ends meet, in which case the kids need to understand that too). Teaching them how to do basic tasks and using a chore chart is going to save you a lot of time. It’s up to you if you want to give them an allowance.

5. Find other WAHPs (Work-at-Home Parents). Find other WAHPs in your area using a safe tool like and you can do an Adult Working Playdate!

So… did you notice the part where I said to get out of the house and take them somewhere? This means a break for you. You can’t work 16 hours a day, people! It’s not healthy! Set your goal for the day, knock it out and head out, and don’t check that blasted cell phone. This is time for the kids only!

Kerrie is the home-schooling, work-at-home mom of five kidlets and also hunts for time to blog about it at Make Money From Home,

Calgary’s Child Magazine © 2017 Calgary’s Child


text:
Contact Center Solutions Featured Article

Convergys Awarded Patent for Computerized Processing, Billing

August 30, 2010

Convergys Corporation has received a new patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The formal patent was awarded by the USPTO to Convergys for state-of-the-art computerized processing and billing of pre- and post-paid simultaneous events, which was not possible in this innovative way before.

To allow the world's communications service providers the ability to process, charge, and bill concurrent events performed by the customer, such as taking a call, downloading a song, and sending a text message, all in real time, Convergys created this solution.

“This new patent is for breakthrough technology created specifically by our experienced engineers to further extend the already robust functionality of Convergys’ Rating and Billing Manager Smart App to provide real-time convergent charging and billing of simultaneous events,” Vinay Mehta, Convergys Senior Vice President, Software Development, said. “Making this advanced functionality available can give telecommunications carriers all over the world enhanced revenue assurance capabilities that directly impact their bottom line.”

This is for the second time in a year that Convergys has received a significant patent for its information management line of business. Around 229 patents or patents pending for advanced technology in customer management and information management are held by Convergys.

Convergys has invested over $1 billion in research and development in support of its vision to be the voice and technology behind all superior service experiences and recognized as the global leader in relationship management.

Organizations such as the Association for Services Management International and the Technology Services Industry Association, has recently named Convergys a winner of the Fall 2009 Recognized Innovator award for battling complexity in technology customer care.

In related news, to enhance its suite of intelligent interaction solutions, Convergys has announced the availability of version 6.5 of its Intervoice Voice Portal and also the next generation of its Interaction Composer development environment.

Deepika Mala is a contributing editor for ContactCenterSolutions. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Erin Harrison

Article comments powered by Disqus


text:
Bits + Pieces: Mexican Food

1. Headless sibling shot... they wear vibrant colored clothes.
2-4: Me and Alex took a drive down the street so I could walk around and take some photos.
5: Went into Rio's Mexican Restaurant and ate! I only had chips and queso but that's really all I need!  (Photo 7 was taken by Alex)

I finally got out of the house today after being stuck inside since Wednesday. I've been wanting to take some pictures of the city and finally got the chance to!
My brother was very nice and drove me around so I could do what I did today!
What did y'all do today?