text:
The first thing that jumps out at you in this great article about Dan Maes, the Tea Party insurgent who offed the GOP's preferred pick in the Colorado governor's race, is the headline: "Maes to Federal Government: 'Screw Them.'" I guess he isn't running on a family values platform.

That kind of fulminating defiance is the defining characteristic of a lot of races this year, especially in GOP primaries. It's effective in winning over the angry conservative grass roots, as Maes did, and as Tea Partier Christine O'Donnell appears poised to do in Delaware, which holds its GOP primary today.

But if you read a little further down in the Maes story, he makes an absolutely hilarious, and revealing, admission about what life has been like for him as he tries--and fails utterly--to consolidate Republican support:

Maes trails Democratic opponent John Hickenlooper badly in fundraising and the GOP has tried to get Maes to drop out of the race. The Vail Daily reports that Maes told the people at Bob's Place in Avon that he's recently been "pulled into meetings" he thinks are for fundraising only to be told he needs to leave the race.

"In the last two weeks, I've stood up to six- and seven-term congressmen and millionaire senators. If someone wants to come after me, they can bring it on."

Unless I've misread something, Maes is saying that he's been lured into meetings with GOP poobahs under the impression that they're going to write him a big check--only when he showed up, they yanked the rug out from under him and told him he sucks and should drop out. That's just unbelievably harsh. I don't think I've ever heard of that happening to anyone. (He goes on to talk about "the first time I cried as an adult.")

On the Tea Party Richter scale from "serious, qualified conservative" to "barking moonbat" Maes is pretty far out on the latter end. He thinks Denver's effort to encourage bike riding is a UN plot. But as far as I know, he doesn't think political operatives are hiding in his bushes, like O'Donnell does. So you can only imagine the type of "meetings" O'Donnell will get invited to by party bigwigs if she pulls off the upset tonight. Maybe her paranoia isn't so misplaced.

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Top News

Goulds' Justin Blundon filled his short life by giving to his community

Justin Blundon.
Justin Blundon. - Contributed

Funeral was ‘one hell of a celebration’

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. —

Today should have been Justin Blundon’s 30th birthday, if he could have let go of his big, generous heart.

Justin came home to Goulds Feb. 1 after a month with family at the Ottawa Heart Institute and died the next day in his parents’ arms. He would have started the process in April of waiting for a heart transplant. But his family says he didn’t want to go through it.

“He didn’t want to give up his heart of gold,” his mother, Linda, said Monday at the family home in the Goulds. “He had such a heart of gold.”

His father, Chris, said as a churchgoer and believer in God, he has accepted what God’s plan was for Justin — “To give the community of Goulds and our family such a gift.”

The Blundon family are an inspiration themselves for their gracious acceptance of tragedy. They want neither publicity or accolades, but agreed to tell Justin’s story to pass on some vital messages — that of volunteering and that of the necessity of organ donation to save lives.

And they want to share how much Justin’s great big smile touched those around him; that despite having a rare condition, he never complained; that his positive attitude moved classmates to accept the outward signs of his condition and not bully him; that he inspired others to help the community as he did — for the sake of doing good and not for self-promotion and social media fandom.

Their words Monday burst with pride, rather than the sadness one would expect and understand in the freshness of grief.

About 800 to 1,000 people passed through Justin’s visitation last week and the Blundons, said Chris, heard countless stories that opened their eyes far beyond the blessed child they knew they had.

And from every last person came the acknowledgment of Justin’s unforgettable smile. The family went through 2,000 photos and could not find one where he wasn’t smiling.

“He never complained. It was all good,” said his sister, Janean.

The funeral started out smaller in the planning, but then the number of people wanting to honour Justin grew and grew as organizations stepped up. And that respect for Justin carries the family through this awful time measured minute by minute, hour by hour and day by day.

There were firefighters from a number of fire departments who showed up from out of town. Members of the St. John’s Regional Fire Department served as pallbearers and every organization Justin was involved in participated in an honour guard — firefighters, the Lions Club and St. John Ambulance.

Justin was an honorary firefighter with the Goulds Volunteer Fire Department, and had volunteered and helped out in some way almost as long as his father, a captain, has been with the department — 28 years.

There were also a number of politicians, as Justin had helped some campaigns, erecting signs, but did not pick a particular party to throw his support behind.

“It was one hell of a celebration,” Chris said of the funeral.

“We got through this week from his strength. … Justin brought the good out of everybody.”

“It was overwhelming. We didn’t realize how many lives he changed,” Janean said.

After high school, Justin earned a living gathering recycling, but just about every day of the week he had an activity or three that involved community work for the organizations he was involved with, or for St. Kevin’s Church. If there were tickets to be sold for any fundraising cause, he went around the neighbourhood with them, and would come back and sell his siblings’ tickets.

With the Lions Club, he won the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, and was also a Duke of Edinburgh recipient and won the Gordon Seabright Volunteer of the Year award, among other honours.

Gathering around the late Justin Blundon’s chair covered in his favourite pattern - camouflage - are his Goulds family (front, from left): sister Jenna, mom Linda and sister Janean; and (back, from left) brother Jason and dad Chris. On the wall behind Chris and Janean is a photo of Justin in his honorary Goulds firefighter uniform. Justin died last week at age 29 after being assessed for a heart transplant.
Gathering around the late Justin Blundon’s chair covered in his favourite pattern - camouflage - are his Goulds family (front, from left): sister Jenna, mom Linda and sister Janean; and (back, from left) brother Jason and dad Chris. On the wall behind Chris and Janean is a photo of Justin in his honorary Goulds firefighter uniform. Justin died last week at age 29 after being assessed for a heart transplant.

“People say he was the most dedicated person they had ever seen,” said Janean. “Whatever they had on, he would be out there. … There were times that Justin was gone every night of the week volunteering at something. He did it because he wanted to be there and help out no matter what it was.”

“He didn’t want to be recognized,” said Chris. “He did it on his own. Like the priest said in his homily, you know, ‘Thanks to the family for letting us have Justin.’ No b’y, it wasn’t us. He wanted to do it.”

“The people affected by him were newborn to age 99. It didn’t matter the age,” said his mom, Linda.

“He did more in his life than some people do in a life three times as long,” said his brother, Jason.

At a year old, Justin was diagnosed with methylglutaconic aciduria Type 5, a metabolic condition that mostly affected his fine and gross motor skills, balance and speech.

“Growing up, we just lived with it,” Chris said.

Justin didn’t let it stop him. He was active and rode his ATV. He helped his father build a garage.

He was diagnosed when all the family underwent genetic testing following the death of his brother, Chris, who lived just one day.

Justin walked with a gait and went through physiotherapy.

Rare condition

His parents knew the condition was rare, but they did not know how rare until five years ago when the family took a vacation to Florida and Justin contracted a virus.

His organs began to shut down and he went into kidney and liver failure. He was on a ventilator and life support for nine days and then was medevaced back to Newfoundland and Labrador, where he spent 50 days in the coronary care unit at the Health Sciences Centre, his father said.

“The Largo Medical Center didn’t know what they could do,” Chris said.

He said the family was told Justin was one of eight in North America who have methylglutaconic aciduria Type 5, and one of 20 worldwide. The family gave permission to have his case discussed in a medical journal.

The virus weakened his heart, said Chris, and he was being followed with cardiac care and had an internal defibrillator inserted three years ago.

Last spring, it went off and they learned how his heart had deteriorated.

In December he was referred to the Ottawa Heart Institute. The family went to Ottawa after Christmas and stayed for a month while Justin was assessed, with the request he come back in April to go on the list and start the process for eventually getting a heart transplant.

There were tests upon tests and Justin was told it could take up to four years to find a compatible heart.

But Chris said Justin knew what he wanted.

“He wanted to come home,” Chris said. “He knew he had some signs there. Of course, we were the selfish people. Of course parents always want to have their kids live on.

“But I don’t think he really wanted (the transplant). God put him on this Earth to do a job.”

That Saturday, Feb. 1, the usually active Justin was in a sombre mood, unlike his regular self.

After a bath, he shouted out to his mother for help on the stairs and then asked for his dad’s assistance as well.

“We were hugging each other helping him get up the stairs and he literally passed in our arms,” Chris said.

While the Blundons were in Ottawa, they met several other Newfoundland and Labrador families going through the process for a heart transplant, and now it is their hope Justin’s story will inspire people to talk with each other about organ donation and make it part of their last wishes.

It’s a hard conversation to have, they acknowledge.

“Somebody has to die so somebody else has a bit better life,” Chris said. “It’s a beautiful gift you can give.”

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text:
Enquiry Book
Price from £1,695pp
All prices include: flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, guided activities and cold weather clothing; all as listed.
Welcome in the New Year in the spectacular wilderness surroundings of Menesjärvi during this four-night break. Enjoy unforgettable experiences such as a husky safari and snowmobiling as well as night-time searches for the Northern Lights.

What's included?

  • Flights: direct return flights from London Gatwick to Ivalo. Flight routes are subject to change
  • Transfers: return group airport transfers
  • Accommodation: 4 nights in twin/double hotel rooms
  • Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
  • The following activities and equipment are included in the price: snowmobile safari and ice fishing, Aurora workshop and Aurora snowshoeing, morning with a reindeer herder, New Year’s Eve kota dinner, husky safari, visit to the Sámi Siida Museum, Aurora snowmobile safari (the order of activities is subject to change)
  • Cold weather clothing is provided for the duration of your stay
  • Free use of snowshoes and cross-country skis
  • Services of our expert local guides

There can be few better locations for welcoming in the New Year than Menesjärvi. This is not a destination for those looking for lively nightlife but with its remote wilderness location, lakeside setting and lack of light pollution, Menesjärvi offers a wonderful sense of escapism. There is also huge potential to witness the region's own bright lights as the Aurora Borealis is a frequent guest here.

Your four nights will be spent at Hotel Korpikartano, a hotel that brims with character and offers a warm welcome to all its guests. The accommodation is simple and cosy, providing all the essentials. The staff members here are wonderful and the location is incredibly special.

As one of our active trips, this itinerary is designed to keep you busy during the day and at night. That said, you do also have some time to simply relax and tailor your four-night holiday.

Highlights of the Northern Lights trip include a snowmobile ride to go ice fishing, a morning with a traditional Sami reindeer herder and a memorable husky safari in the Arctic wilds.

Your evenings will, of course, be spent seeking out the Aurora with a snowshoe walk, Northern Lights snowmobile trip and a special New Year's Dinner in a lakeside kota all included.

We love this location because it has everything a wilderness setting should have: endless snow-covered fells and forests, the vast expanse of frozen Lake Menesjarvi and absolute silence all around. This remoteness, not only ensures that you get a fantastic sense of peace, but also means that your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are excellent.

Welcoming a New Year in this unique and remarkable environment is sure to be something you will never forget.

Image credit: Timo Halonen & Ville Heimonen
View Gallery Download Dossier

Key facts

Duration:4 nights
Make an enquiry
  • After landing at the airport you will be met by your guide before being transferred to the remote and picturesque community of Menesjärvi. As you drive through the wilderness you begin to appreciate what a remarkable location this really is, miles from the nearest town.

    Upon arrival at Hotel Korpikartano, you will have the chance to settle in before enjoying a welcome dinner with the group. A brief introduction will be given on the hotel facilities and the final order of your activities will be confirmed. You can also get kitted out with cold weather clothing which you will keep for the duration of your stay.

    Included Meals:  Dinner
  • After breakfast this morning, you will explore the area around the hotel on snowmobiles. Before setting off, you will receive a full safety briefing and instructions on how to drive the vehicles. The purpose of your journey is to locate the ideal ice fishing spot on one of the frozen lakes nearby.

    Ice fishing is a much-enjoyed pastime in this corner of the world and if you are served fish at the hotel, it is likely to have been caught in one of these lakes.

    The guides will show you how to drill through the thick sheet of ice to reach the water below and from there the fun is in the anticipation. If you are not lucky enough to catch anything, this is still a relaxing activity which provides the ideal opportunity to spend time enjoying the silence and the surroundings.

    While snowmobiling, you will travel two people per machine with the opportunity to take it in turns to drive (providing you both have a full driving licence and are over the age of 18) or travel as a passenger. It is also possible to upgrade and drive one person per snowmobile. Details about this can be found in the ‘Personalise’ section.

    After lunch, this afternoon has been left free for you to relax or to try some additional activities. The hotel offers free use of kick sleds, snowshoes, toboggans and cross-country skiing equipment and so you can explore independently should you wish. There are maps available at reception and you should check the trail conditions and weather before setting off. Bear in mind that it will get dark in the afternoon at this time of year, so a head torch may be required.

    This evening after dinner, there will be an Aurora workshop led by one of the expert local guides. They are all talented and enthusiastic Northern Lights photographers and during the workshop, they will showcase their images and discuss some of the science behind the Aurora. They will also talk you through the camera settings required to capture a Northern Lights image before you practice outside during your first night-time excursion: Aurora snowshoeing.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Reindeer herding is a hugely important part of life in Lapland and the Sámi herders play an essential cultural, economic and social role today as they have done for centuries.

    Following breakfast, you will be transferred to meet a local reindeer herder who will explain his life and work.

    On arrival at the reindeer farm, you will travel out via a snowmobile-pulled sleigh in search of the herd. The reindeer will start to make their way through the trees, drawn by the smell of food and you will have the chance to observe them up close and to feed them. A campfire will be lit and you will enjoy hot drinks, as well as the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the herder’s daily life before your return to the hotel. This experience is not for tourists, you simply join the herder on their daily work; a really fantastic opportunity.

    After lunch this afternoon you will have access to the snowshoes, cross-country skis, kick sleds and toboggans at the hotel so you can explore independently if you wish. We have a special guided session of cross-country skiing that you can add to your holiday. Please see the ‘Personalise’ section for more information. Alternatively, many guests enjoy making use of the sauna facilities at the hotel which can be booked in hour long slots each day for private use.

    This evening, you will gather with the other guests at the hotel to celebrate the start of a New Year in this amazing location. Dinner will be served in one of the hotel’s traditional kotas (wooden tepees). You can then all head onto the nearby lake to keep watch on the sky and see if the Aurora come and join in the celebrations. There are few better places we can think of to see in a New Year.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • After breakfast this morning you will take part in an exciting husky safari into the winter wilderness. After receiving full instructions, you will head out, two people per sled, with your team of eager dogs leading the way. Traversing the land in this traditional manner is a lovely experience that allows you to really enjoy the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings. We find that it is an activity which is almost universally loved by our guests.

    After your husky experience, you will then travel to the nearby village of Inari. Here you will have lunch before visiting the main focal point of the village – the Sámi Siida Museum with its array of interesting exhibitions. Here you can gain an insight into the history of the region and the Sámi culture in general through the interactive displays and presentations.

    Tonight, after dinner, you will be back on the snowmobiles as you set off on an Aurora hunt, using the machines to provide you with additional mobility, which can be very helpful when seeking the Northern Lights. Your guide will give you a safety briefing and full instructions on how to drive the vehicles. The pace will be gentle as your guide leads the hunt, using their local knowledge and expertise to try and track down the Northern Lights for you. Once again, you will travel two people per snowmobile; the upgrade to travel one person per vehicle can be found in the ‘Personalise’ section. Anybody wishing to drive must have a full driving licence and be over 18.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • After breakfast, your adventure comes to an end as you are taken to the airport for your flight home.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast

Included in price

Hotel Korpikartano

Nights: 1-4

Hotel Korpikartano is a very special place in a breath-taking location in Finnish Lapland. Its situation could not be more idyllic, with a fantastic outlook over Lake Menesjärvi and the remote wilderness beyond. The lack of artificial light in the area ensures that if the Aurora appears, then you can enjoy amazing displays from very close to the hotel.

Hotel Korpikartano was originally a boarding school for those growing up in this remote part of the world and is, therefore, full of quirks, character and charm. The welcome provided by the owners, Anne and Timo (Timo is retired but still makes regular appearances to take Aurora photos here), creates a wonderful atmosphere and their passion for the region is infectious.

The staff and guides have a huge passion for this landscape and for providing guests with a truly memorable stay.

The hotel comprises of two main buildings. The first houses the dining room and a number of bedrooms. A separate annexe building (a very short walk away) houses the majority of the guest accommodation.

It is a place with great soul and which offers guests the chance to completely switch off from the everyday and relax in a wild and beautiful environment. You are likely to leave feeling very privileged to have experienced this wonderful place.

Hotel facilities

  • Traditional home cooking is the order of the day in the hotel’s dining room. The food can be described as 'simple, tasty and hearty' and is very much designed to fuel you up for your outdoor adventures. In many cases, the evening’s set menu will contain local ingredients such as fresh fish that Timo has caught, berries Anne has foraged, or meat purchased from the local reindeer herders. The set meals are all self-service. Breakfast is a buffet of breads, meat, cheese and fish with the addition of porridge and fruit. Lunch and evening meals start with a salad and bread, a set main and then a pudding which is often a local speciality. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements so these can be accommodated.
  • You can also purchase a range of wine, beer and spirits to accompany your meal.
  • Obviously, saunas are a pre-requisite in these parts and there are two, one in each building. They can each be booked privately by guests each day in hour long slots.
  • There is an outdoor wood-burning sauna and rustic hot tub. Should you request the use of the outdoor sauna (a local charge will apply), don't forget that a dip in the lake (in autumn) or a roll in the snow (in winter) is almost obligatory (as long as you are in a good physical condition).
  • The simple lounge (near the reception) provides tea and coffee making facilities. Consider this to be the perfect spot to relax by the stove with a book but remember to keep your eyes peeled for the Northern Lights as the windows face north!
  • There is free Wi-Fi for guests to use throughout both buildings and there is a PC available at reception.
  • Books and games are also available to borrow from reception.
  • If you are travelling in the winter then the hotel offers free use of snowshoes, cross-country skis, kick sleds and toboggans so there is also something for those who love the great outdoors and want to explore independently between activities. There are marked trails across the stunning frozen lake and maps are available at reception.
  • If you want to send a memento home, then there are postcards available to purchase and some of Timo’s Aurora photography is for sale. Anne also knits cosy woollen socks for charity and these can usually be purchased at reception.
  • There is a lakeside Kota (wooden tepee) which is open for all guests during the evening. Here you can light a fire and warm up in between forays out onto the lake in search of the Northern Lights.

Room types

The 28 guest bedrooms vary in size and shape as you may expect from a former school. They are cosy, comfortable and decorated with locally-sourced wood. Some of the furnishings have been crafted by Timo's own hand.

All guest bedrooms have an en-suite bathroom with shower and a hairdryer. Cups and kettles are provided in each bedroom and a variety of teas and coffee is available in each building for you to take to your room.

Image credit: Timo Halonen, Matt Robinson (please note: The images depicted show the hotel during both the winter and autumn months)

Personalise this tour

Our pick

Cross-country skiing

From £40pp

Cross-country skiing is remarkably good fun and is an efficient way to travel and explore the terrain surrounding the hotel. Gliding across a frozen lake or through a snow-laden forest helps you understand why people get addicted to this pastime. Your guide will give instructions and lead you through the forest on a short ski trip. The skis will then be yours for the remainder of the day should you wish to further enhance your skills. This is an excellent option for your first full day in Lapland.

Duration: 1 – 1.5 hrs (ski hire for the day)

Other options

Additional Aurora snowshoe session

From: £55pp

Wandering around on snowshoes is a classic way of getting around in Lapland, taking you into some truly quiet natural spaces. Why not add another to your holiday for an extra session of therapeutic walking, looking out to see if the Aurora are dancing in the skies above?

Duration: 2 hours

Image credit: Timo Halonen

Riding one person per snowmobile

From: £40pp

Driving a snowmobile over the open whiteness is utterly electrifying, so it is well worth upgrading to drive your own snowmobile for the whole activity, rather than going two per vehicle.

Price Comparison Guarantee

Expertise and knowledge are key to witnessing the Northern Lights. We’ve been running Aurora hunting holidays longer than any company in the UK and with no lead in prices, no hidden costs and more included, we’re confident our tours will come out on top.
Price guarantee
Sun 29 Dec 2019
to Thu 02 Jan 2020
Adults£ 1,695

Please note: our holiday prices are based on the lowest available airline fares. These fares can sell out quickly and, as a result, prices may increase and supplements may be applicable. We recommend booking at the earliest opportunity to secure the best possible fares and flight times.

Next season’s pre-sale dates and prices

To secure your holiday for next season, you can make a pre-sale booking and fix the price of your trip at the pre-sale price displayed below. Simply by paying a deposit of £400pp, you will protect yourself from any package price increases. The departure dates and itineraries remain preliminary and we will contact you when the final dates and itineraries are confirmed, you will then have 14 days to decide if you would like to go ahead. If you decide not to travel, we will refund your full deposit payment. We reserve the right to charge supplements where there are significant changes to an itinerary or increases in flight costs. Any non-package rates remain subject to change.

Tue 29 Dec 2020
to Thu 02 Jan 2020
Adults£ 1,815

For our full booking terms and conditions please click here

Holiday group size (approximate)

This holiday requires a minimum of 2 people to run, however, we require a minimum of 8 people for our flight allocation. Maximum 24 people (approximately). Please speak to our Travel Experts for further information.

We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.

Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.

Some of our holidays require a minimum number of participants to operate (as listed in the ‘Group Size’ section). If your holiday departure has not yet reached the minimum number, you will be told at the time of booking. In the unlikely event that your chosen date is not guaranteed by nine weeks before your scheduled departure date, we will contact you to discuss the available options as per our booking conditions.

Itinerary amendments

The order of activities is always subject to change and guests will be provided with their final itinerary upon arrival.

Please note that some of our holidays may incur a single supplement. Please speak to one of our Travel Experts who will provide you with a quotation.

Medical History and advice

We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.

In order to give us the best possible chance to do this, we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.

In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.

Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.

If you are pregnant at the time of booking your holiday or you discover you are pregnant prior to your departure, firstly – congratulations! Secondly – please tell us as soon as possible. This situation does arise, and we are able to advise you both from our own first-hand experience and from discussing this at length with our expert local partners who have experience in this area. The more notice you can give us the better, in order to suggest any adaptions to the itinerary you have booked which will reduce the risk to both mother and baby. Please contact our customer service team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.

It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.

If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.

Reduced Mobility

If you have a reduced level of mobility, then please contact our travel experts to discuss the suitability of this holiday in relation to your requirements.

Experience and fitness

We offer a vast choice of holidays which range from 'relaxed' to 'active' so there really is something for everyone and our holidays can be filtered by how active they are. Regardless of the chosen holiday, all activities will include tuition from a beginner's level and no prior experience is assumed.

If you are unsure about the physical demands of a particular holiday please contact us and our expert team will be happy to help.

See our booking conditions for further information.

Guides and safety

It is absolutely essential when partaking in any activity that you listen very closely to, and abide by, the instructions provided.

If there is anything that you are unsure of during a safety briefing or that you would like to clarify with the guides please make this clear to them immediately before starting the activity.

Our guides' word on activities is always final and your safety is their principal concern at all times, please respect their decisions. By following their instructions, your safety and enjoyment during each activity will be greatly enhanced.

See our booking conditions for further information.

Booking activities locally

Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).

When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern. In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time.

You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.

Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.

Car Hire

If your trip includes car hire the named driver must have a credit card registered in their name which they can present when they collect their car along with their driving licence, as a deposit will be held on the credit card.  Please see your trip dossier for full details.

Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.

On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.

Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.

If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.

If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.

Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.

We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.

The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/

The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html

If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.

If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.

If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.

If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.

Minimum age

The minimum age for participation in our itinerary is 15 years old, however, for some activities and transfers, you may be joined by other guests and this may include some of a younger age than stated. Any younger participants will be fully supervised and the guides will ensure that their participation takes place only if the activities will be unaffected.

Very few hotels have a minimum age and there may be families staying at them with younger children, especially during the holiday periods. We do have some itineraries and destinations which are guaranteed to be adult-only, so if this is important to you please speak to one of our Travel Experts.

To drive a snowmobile you must have a full driving licence and be over 18 years old.

Traveller Reviews

We saw the Northern Lights on each night of our visit 28 December 2016 by The Shillibier Family

Seeing the Northern Lights on each night of our visit....unforgettable...New Year's Eve Party Celebrations very, very good. Husky safari.......superb. You mustn’t under-estimate the input and contributions made by Anna and Timo, all the guides, the house staff and everyone....and the reindeer herder and the husky guides...and the dogs themselves?...these very good people (and dogs) make the
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holiday very special.
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Totally fell in love with Finland - thank you - it was worth every penny 28 December 2015 by Sam May

Thank you to everyone at the above and yourselves for a fantastic service. Timo and the team there were all so lovely and helpful and run a tight ship - nothing was too much, whatever the time,they were all brilliant. We loved all the activities, the setting, the facilities, the weather... There's usually something I can find to complain about after a holiday but on this occasion I'm stumped!
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Totally fell in love with Finland - thank you - it was worth every penny - please pass on our thanks to all at the hotel. PS we didn't see the lights but awesome though they may be, this really didn't matter with everything else that we had to do, and it's left us with a reason to try again another time.
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We will remember this trip for the rest of our lives 05 January 2015 by Andy Gilbert

I was so impressed with the attention to detail regarding my wife being gluten free, even when we were out on excursions she was well catered for. The husky sledging (favourite activity), the dogs were so friendly. We enjoyed helping set up our team and loved fussing them. We will remember this trip for the rest of our lives.

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Facial Shammy

Manufacturer part number: 62517
In Stock - Usually Despatched in 1 Working Day

An ideal substitute for a flannel to wash and cleanse your face.

Customers who bought this item also bought

Travel Size Sensitive Skin Cream

Sensitive Cream

RS2 Gentle Cleanser

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Spa At Home Replenishing Shampoo

Shampoo 250ml


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ADP Serena Tallboy

by ADP
  • Stylish wall hung tallboy design, perfect for extra bathroom storage
  • Constructed from 25mm natural bamboo with open shelf
  • Door fronts available in a full selection of ADP colour finishes
  • Adjustable internal bamboo shelves
  • Blum push-to-open doors
  • 1500mm x 350mm x 350mm
  • Made with love in Australia

Please note: ADP cabinets are made to order. Vanities have a 2-4 week leadtime from confirmation, and shaving cabinets and shelves have a 2 week lead-time. We will send an email the next business day to confirm the chosen specifications of your cabinet. Only once we have received confirmation, will we be able to process the order.

Architectural Designer Products are well known in the industry for quality Australian made furniture pieces and innovative designs. ADP has a range of products that bring life, aesthetics, practicality and technology into your bathroom.

Warranty 7 year ADP Warranty cabinets/acrylic tops/cast marble tops/solid surface moulded tops/hardware/bamboo. 5 year warranty ceramic moulded tops. 1 year Warranty mirror/ceramic basins/plumbing fittings/electrical
View Specs Add to cart


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Tagged: Anna Bond

Duffield to leave Pan Mac, Bond promoted

Pan Macmillan's creative director Geoff Duffield is leaving the publisher to found an author-brand agency, with Anna Bond taking on a "new and broader" role... Read more

Pan Mac partners with Quick Reads 'to help vulnerable mothers'

Pan Macmillan is partnering with Quick Reads in a project "to help vulnerable mothers discover the love of reading". Read more

Carol Ann Duffy to tour UK for IBW

Poet Carol Ann Duffy will undertake a nationwide tour of independent bookshops this summer to support the 10th anniversary of Independent Bookshop Week. Read more

Tesco and Pan Mac partner to support Readathon

Tesco and Pan Macmillan have partnered to raise money in support of national reading charity Readathon, working to provide books for sick children in the UK’s 30... Read more

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Matcha Masterclass with Storm & India

Matcha Masterclass with Storm & India

I became obsessed with matcha on a trip to LA a couple of years back. There, everyone sips on matcha lattes, hot matcha tea, iced matcha elixirs, matcha kombucha - you name it. I learnt that not only do I love the health benefits and gentle caffeine kick matcha imparts, but I thoroughly enjoy the flavour of this potent, green powder. As soon as I got back to Auckland I began to experiment with it in my baking.

Meanwhile, I began chatting with India (one of the beautiful sisters who make up the successful tea brand Storm & India) and we quickly became friends. We share a mutual agreement that the world revolves around tea and cake (or at least our worlds do). I was hyped when India mentioned she was working on releasing a matcha tea in the coming months, and we vowed to work together on something as soon as it was ready.

So here we are, presenting a Matcha Masterclass together. If you’re new to this exquisite ingredient or already love it, come along to see how you can incorporate it into your baking and your beverages.

Guests will be invited to decorate their own Matcha and Sour Cherry cake to take home!

When: Saturday, February 24th, 3.30-5pm

Where: The Caker, 446 K’rd, Newton 1010

$80 / head

sold out
Add To Cart

Please note you will not receive a physical ticket but we will keep track of your name and the number of tickets you have purchased to record on our entry list.


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Caldecott Chosen For Green Tokens Scheme

The Caldecott Foundation is delighted to have been chosen by John Lewis (Home), Ashford to benefit from the company’s Community Matters “Green Tokens” scheme.

Every three months, John Lewis and Partners’ shops nominate three community groups or charities to support.  Each store has £3000 to donate per quarter – to share amongst the nominees proportionally, according to how customers have voted.

Customers can choose which charity or community group to vote for by using a green token, and so are directly involved in deciding how much share each organisation receives.

From now, until April 2019, shoppers visiting John Lewis (Home) in Ashford will be able to vote for the Caldecott Foundation as one of the charities to have been selected for the scheme.

Caldecott’s Fundraising Manager, Karin Moncrieff, said, “We are all very thrilled and excited to have been chosen and look forward to working with John Lewis (Home) in Ashford over the next few months.”

Find out why the Caldecott Foundation needs your support.

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Katoomba Blue Mountains Timeless Elegance
Share BathroomsTraditional Rooms

Traditional Rooms

Check Availability

Budget accommodation has never been so stylish with share bathrooms

Katoomba Hotel Accommodation - The Carrington Traditional Room

Located on the first floor in their own wing, these rooms offer the original Carrington experience with access to separate share bathroom facilities for Ladies and Gentlemen at the end of the Hall.

The classical bathrooms have been fully restored and include showers, traditional claw foot deep baths and toilets.

Pack your slippers and dressing gown and enjoy the old world charm of this wing.

Complimentary continental buffet breakfast served in our Grand Dining Room & Free Wi-Fi.

Room Amenities

King or Queen size beds
Twin bedded rooms available
STD/ISD telephone
Tea & coffee making facilities
Flat screen television
Mini Fridge

Traditional Rooms


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God's 'magnificent gift'

PROVO, Utah — Sisters of the Church can use their agency to arise as women of God, Sharon G. Larsen declared at the closing session of the 2000 BYU Women's Conference April 28 at the Marriott Center. Sister Larsen, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, was the keynote speaker along with her sister, Ardeth G. Kapp, former Young Women general president. (See related article.)

Sister Larsen explained that agency is a "magnificent gift from God" that "comes with endless opportunities, accompanied by responsibility and consequences. Making good choices and acting on them increases our capacity to exercise our agency. Making bad choices and acting on them limits that capacity, even though we still possess our agency. But agency is not free! We are responsible for the choices we make and the consequences are inseparably connected."

Continuing, she explained: "The cycle of choice, action, consequences; choice, action, consequences affects our character and our life experiences. Every day and every decision determines the next. It is being able to choose righteously that helps us to grow up. Using agency, in harmony with God's will, helps us learn about ourselves. It teaches us what the Lord already knows about us.

"Have you noticed through the chain of life's choices, actions and consequences that either consciously or subconsciously you are choosing to become the victim? Either because of a rebellious family member or other circumstances beyond your control or your own guilt, you are feeling like a victim of some misdeeds.

"As difficult as it might be, we never have to be the victims. As sisters in Zion, we are not only choosing for ourselves. How good are our choices for someone else? We shape the world in more ways than we know when we see the possibilities in the ordinariness of the present."

Toward the conclusion of her address, Sister Larsen added: "I testify that He will make you strong to carry the weight placed upon you. Let Him heal your broken heart and broken dreams."

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C–TAP (Technology Refresh Program)

What is the Best Way to Procure Technology?

We believe the only real value of a Technology solution to the customer is in its ability to improve the overall performance of the organization. The ability to communicate effectively is what separates the best organizations from the rest of the pack. Organizations that have a quality communication with clients, suppliers, and employees will achieve a profound competitive advantage.

Technology is Evolving Rapidly

Technology will advance more in the next five years that it has in the previous 95 years. The most profound innovations of our time are innovations that improve the way we communicate with one another. In parallel to the pace of change in technology, businesses are rapidly evolving their core processes and capabilities to become more competitive. This highly innovative, rapidly evolving environment creates a dynamic situation where it can be tough to know if you're picking the right technology solution not only for today, but for the future as well.

Does it Make Sense to Solve a Dynamic Problem with a Static Solution?

Historically, organizations have purchased a technology solution with a large upfront capital expenditure to solve a static, point-in-time solution. The system was installed, they received limited training when it was installed, upgrade decisions became price-based decisions, and the goal was to keep it as long as possible. The approach was "if it is not broke, don't fix it." If it did break, they then scrambled to get it fixed and were forced to pay whatever the cost was. Today's leading companies have rejected this approach and are turning to a managed services model for maximizing their employee's ability to leverage technology for productivity and competitive advantage.

C-TAP Overcomes two of the Greatest Risks of Technology, Obsolescence and Cost of Ownership

The Connect Group's recommended approach to technology purchases is to not own the solution but instead use the solution and pay for it over the life of the solution. This gives companies a different perspective since the investment is on a short term basis. The technology can be evaluated on it's enhancement of the companies processes instead of the way we "have always done it." This approach, not only removes the upfront expenditures, it cements the entire cost of ownership with service, support, upgrades, training and all of the hidden costs not known in the old model of purchase. On top of that, we offer a completely managed system where we offer the hardware along with unlimited technical support, unlimited programming changes, and unlimited training to ensure the system will grow and evolve among with your business to keep your employees operating at maximum productivity.


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Queen Bee Shadow Box Card – First Edition Perfect Allusion Papers & First Edition Dies

pollypurplehorse 16 Apr 2018 3 Comments
over 60 minutes Brown moderate None None

The Perfect Allusion papers from First Edition are a lovely mix of patterns invoking a real vintage, textured, distressed look that is versatile and popular.

Here’s my Youtube Video in which I explain the card and products used: https://youtu.be/x0JorvzF3uc

How To:

I really wanted to make a shadow box card shape after watching a Youtube video, so I created the file in my Scan n Cut machine, but you could make one using a Cricut or manually, I’m sure there are instructions for both techniques.  I then had fun cutting, assembling and decorating the card.

The card base itself has been cut using one of the double-sided papers in the 12x12 paper pad, I chose the paper with the wood effect on one side which is the inside of my card.

The frame layer on card front is cut from the brown floral paper and edged with Dovecraft Gold Glitter glue.

I have used the First Edition Bee Themed dies on card and then heat embossed the die cuts using wow embossing powders, a metallic gold for the bee and the sentiment and Golden Flame for the hive.

The wooden flower has been coloured with First Edition makers in shades of brown, orange and yellow.  I let it all dry before heat embossing over with clear embossing powder.

The flowers around the frame have been fussy cut from the textured floral paper and then heat embossed with clear embossing powder.

I’ve added a matching floral die cut circle to the inside of the card.

Adhesive gems and glitter glue add finishing touches.

Youtube video here: https://youtu.be/x0JorvzF3uc

Products Used:

First Edition Perfect Allusion 12x12 Paper Pad – FEPAD173

First Edition Perfect Allusion 8x8 paper pad – FEPAD174

First Edition Bee Themed Die Set – FEDIE237

Wow Embossing Powder – Metallic Gold Rich – WC04R

Wow Embossing Powder – Golden Flame – WS146R

Dovecraft Premium Textured Cardstock 6x6 – DCPAP074

Dovecraft Glitter Glue – Gold – DCGLI003X15

Simply Creative Adhesive Gems – SCDOT027

Dovecraft Bee Happy Wooden Shapes – DCWDN050

Dovecraft Bee Happy Jewels – DCDOT029

Embossing Inkpad

Clear Embossing Powder

Copper loose glitter

Adhesives: D/S Tape, 3D Foam Pads, clear drying glue

Share & Options

Comment on this post

To submit your own comments and join the conversation please create a free craft blog account.

This great, love the honey colours.

Wow love this, love those papers too.x

Stunning project Angela.x

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Vera Wear Project

The Vera Wear Project, a model search competition, is scheduled in Houston, Texas, February 2015. The Vera Wear Project will challenge models hopefuls in a variety of real world challenges and business situations with one spokesmodel and 4 models that will represent his fast growing clothing brand Vera wear. We have conducted an interview with Angel Rivera.

What is the concept of Vera Wear?
The concept of Vera Wear is to bring a new perspective into the fashion and entertainment world. Vera Wear is an outlet for us to show the world new talent and trends.

Who is behind it?
Behind Vera Wear, are many including my COO Sabrina Soto, Who is by far a strong component in the company. I think in order to have a great company you need great leadership and it starts with me, I have to be the best in order to have a good foundation to allow everyone within my company to succeed.

From pop culture to entertainment, exclusive models, shows, columns, clothing lines, celebrity clothing lines, designers, jewelry, and fragrances, which are the most important pillars for a fashionable brand to be successful?
All. I find that all are important pillars for a fashionable brand to be successful because it really all comes down to the creative aspect of it all. You can have all the celebrities in the world, all the hottest models, fancy jewelry lines etc. But without the creative and original factors playing into your brand then you’re just like everyone else. It’s about how you market yourself and how much you believe in your brand.

What is your key strategy to revolutionize the fashion and entertainment world?
My key strategy to revolutionize the fashion and entertainment world is simple. Staying true to my brand and what it stands for. Originality.

In your opinion as the CEO of a multi-layered lifestyle brand, what are the main challenges to maintain the leadership positioning in this industry?
As the CEO of Vera Wear there are many challenges I face, but these same challenges allow me to continue working hard and delivering a great product to my customers and fans. I believe this allows me to maintain leadership in this industry.

When will the Vera Wear Model Search be launched?
The Vera Wear model search will be launched January 5th, 2015.

How does the Vera Wear Models differentiate from the other models?
The Vera Wear models differentiate from the other models because we are not just looking for a model but a spokes model, someone who can represent our brand beyond photos or the runway.

What are the criteria(s) should a Vera Wear Model have?
The Vera Wear models criteria would be that the models are preferably 5’6 and above and older than 18.
Vera Wear Project Reviewed by JaamZIN on 10:09:00 AM Rating: 5
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Brutal Reality: Government Shutdown Is Proving Americans Are NOT Prepared For A Recession

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Top Tier Gear USA

The brutal reality is that most Americans are not prepared for the next economic downturn or recession. The government shutdown is highlighting just how much Americans rely on others as opposed to themselves, and how little they have saved for an emergency.

According to the newest op-ed article by Market Watch, the government shutdown is perfectly proving that Americans are not prepared for a financial disaster of any kind, let alone an economic recession. Many have long assumed that the government (which as we all know is almost $22 trillion in debt) will be using their money (stolen funds aka, taxation) to bail out those who get themselves into trouble. But the shutdown is proving just how little the government actually does and just how financially illiterate many Americans have allowed themselves to become.

The Shutdown Is Providing Evidence Of Private Businesses Making Government Obsolete

Almost 60% of Americans have less than $1000 in savings for a rainy day fund or an immediate emergency. It’s been ten years since the Great Recession left many Americans jobless with no money, and it appears most have learned nothing. The government shutdown serves as a painful warning and preview for what will happen once unemployment rises from 50-year lows.  Americans are far too dependent on others, including the government, for their survival.

Within just a few weeks into the government shutdown, people are struggling to cope. We hear stories about people turning to food banks to feed their families. We hear stories about people who are in dire straits because they can’t get loans. We hear stories about people who can’t pay their mortgages. That’s not even one month into the shutdown. –Market Watch

Most Americans live paycheck to paycheck, including those who work for the government.  Many won’t live below their means in order to save and it certainly seems that most citizens have picked up the government’s spending habits. They have also stopped saving for themselves. According to a recent GoBankingRates survey, only 21% of Americans have more than $10,000 in savings, with nearly 60% having less than $1,000 in savings. Almost 32% of Americans have nothing saved up at all.

And something most don’t want to hear is that every economic cycle will end and hit a low again despite the rosy attestations of those who wish to keep confidence high. There is nothing in history that suggests that extremely low unemployment can be maintained for an extended period of time. Indeed, it is precisely at the end of an economic cycle that low unemployment rates tend to reverse rather suddenly.

There is one way to prepare for a recession and it’s to end dependence on debt and save some money for an emergency. Without the shackles of credit card debt, student loan debt, and car payments, Americans could not only save more, but their money would go much further as no one has already claimed it in the form of debt repayment.

How Prepare For An Economic Downturn: Go Debt-Free In 2019

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When it hits the fan, don’t say we didn’t warn you. Mac Slavo is the editor of, a resource hub for alternative news, contrarian commentary and strategies that you can take to protect yourself from the coming global paradigm shift.

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Chile’s Higher Education Reform: Prioritizing Technical Education

˙ PREAL Blog

This post is also available in: Spanish

The future of the Chilean economy and its ability to innovate will depend on the quality of technical education. This topic, which has been historically underestimated, must be prioritized in the next higher education reform that will be discussed in Congress in 2016.

Financing and accreditation reforms introduced in 2005 and expanded later have allowed a very rapid increase of enrollment in higher education, doubling the number of students in ten years (1.2 million in 2016 in a total population of 18 million). Simultaneously, student registration in technical higher education has been growing at a faster pace than at universities (see figure below). However, quality of learning, relevance of education, and employability continue to lag behind.

By conducting an overview of international experiences and an analysis of the national reality, one can identify 10 key areas of action that can help improve technical education in all its forms: Post-secondary 2-to-4-year careers offered by universities, Professional Institutes (4 years) and Technical Training Centers (2 years).

  1. Empower technical education. This means presenting a convincing narrative that values learning by doing, the connection between ability and execution, and the value of being both a student and a worker. It must also demonstrate that, in an evolving world, technical education is a path for lifelong training. Empowering technical education involves implementing it as a differentiated subsystem within higher education instead of a subordinate one.
  1. Structure the higher education system with two parallel subsystems: university and technical or technological. Furthermore, it is essential to define whether universities will continue to offer technical careers (which currently represent 11% of enrollment) or whether this function will be progressively assigned to the technical colleges subsystem.
  1. Make institutional quality accreditation compulsory. Most technical colleges have no accreditation. Only a third of technical degrees are either accredited or in the process of accreditation. Between 1990 and 2015, the number of Technical Training Centers and Professional Institutes decreased from 161 to 54 and from 81 to 42, respectively. This process must continue in order to reach sizes that can sustain a system with quality teachers, equipment, networks, and digital platforms for international reach. Accreditation must be compulsory.
  1. Organize degrees and majors hierarchically. In order to achieve quality, it is imperative to deal with the current confusion and dispersion by systemizing curricula and establishing grade equivalencies with similar competencies. Moreover, it is crucial to shift to an integrated system of technical institutions that is capable of better organizing and systemizing abilities and competencies for two and four-year degrees.
  1. Specify the field (and boundaries) of technical higher education. In addition to regulating the duration of degrees and entry requirements, it is necessary to better demarcate the boundaries between technical education and training programs such as those in the “Servicio Nacional de Capacitación” (SENCE, a public  institution, funded by the government  and companies,  that trains and reconverts workers). Nearly 25% of students in technical programs are over 25 years old and the majority of them study in the afternoons after work. This percentage will increase rapidly. Defining this boundary is relevant in order to estimate the potential reach of free higher education.
  1. Strengthen the relationship with firms. It is imperative to establish more active involvement of productive organizations and businesses when defining curricula and specializations. Also, forming skill boards including companies in each of the priority areas for the national productive development strategy.
  1. Focus on teacher training. Technical education teachers must possess specialized abilities such as operating in interaction with industry, teaching how to learn by doing, developing a teamwork mentality, and elevating students’ analytical skills in order to solve concrete problems. The abilities required from these teachers are different from those of university academics.
  1. Favor regional needs. Regional development must involve technicians and specialized professionals in the strategic sectors of each region. The fifteen state technological centers recently created by law must contribute to the quality of regional technical education.
  1. Reformulate secondary technical and professional education. This type of education currently has two insufficiencies: low employability rates and poor training for entry into higher education. These two factors negatively affect 40% of secondary students, around 200,000 of the most vulnerable ones. It would be convenient to consider a gradual substitution of the technical-professional option in the last 2 years of secondary schooling (11th and 12th grade). Instead, more hours of schooling could be assigned to basic learning in science and humanities and students that graduate from secondary education could be offered two years of post-secondary technical education for free.
  1. Design a new institutional framework. Create a management board for technical Education in the future Higher Education Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and form a National Technical Training Board that coordinates the Ministries of Education, Labor, and Economy.

The aforementioned needs are similar across all countries in Latin America, even if to different extents depending on the development of each educational system. The urgency to implement those measures and policies will increase in the coming years in order to improve productivity, diversify production, incorporate new exporting technologies, and compete globally in goods and services of greater value added..

Asian countries will continue to widen the productivity gap with respect to Latin America and the Caribbean.. Singapore, Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, as well as Malaysia and Thailand in recent times, have improved their technical education, math, and science priorities to train engineers and technicians for future-oriented industries. These experiences, as well as those of developed countries, are valuable for Latin Americans, who  should regularly monitor and learn from the best global practices in order to reduce the skills gap.

An earlier version of this article was published in Spanish by El Mercurio. To see the original text, click here.

Sergio Bilar is a Senior Fellow at the Inter-American Dialogue. He has had a distinguished political career in Chile, including the position of Minister of Education (2003-2005). Member of the Government Consultative Council on Higher Education (2015).

Photo credit: Galeria del Ministerio de Defensa / Flickr /  CC BY 2.0


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Mummy Dearest: Mothers That Terrify

Is it me or are we all just a little bit terrified of our mothers? As newborns, we depend on them for our survival. From that point onwards, a complex rollercoaster of love, resentment and quid pro quo unfolds. Through the ages, white women (they do tend to be white) have been deified and demonised in horror films for their ability to reproduce – both a miracle and aberration under the male gaze.

In Hereditary (2018), Toni Collette’s character, Annie, as both mother and daughter, has the worst of both worlds. Squeezed from both sides by fear, duty and guilt, and traumatised by her own “monstrous” mother, she unwittingly drags her own children into Grandma’s complex web.

In honour of Hereditary, dubbed the ‘scariest film since The Exorcist’, here are some of the best and weirdest horror-mothers out there.

Psycho (1960) dir. Alfred Hitchcock

#whereitallbegan. Fun fact: like his character, Norman Bates, Anthony Perkins had a deeply unhealthy relationship with his mother, which gave him a pathological fear of women for most of his adult life. Psycho was a game-changer. Loosely inspired by serial killer Ed Gein (a man with his own mother issues) it is arguably the first slasher movie, the greatest risk of Alfred Hitchcock’s career and one of the most iconic films of all time. Norman Bates’ mother isolated her son, clothed him as her pseudo lover, dominated his entire personality and split it in two, creating a twisted killer. Or did she? Who is the real “psycho” here anyway?

Rosemary’s Baby (1968) dir. Roman Polanski

It’s a different experience watching Rosemary’s Baby, in a post-#metoo world. For starters, it was directed by the now-disgraced Roman Polanski. It stars Mia Farrow, a decade before she got together with the now-disgraced Woody Allen. At the film’s surface are the anxieties of a pregnant woman being occupied by a malevolent force she doesn’t understand, which is sucking all her strength away. But, behind the camera, is a man making a film about a book written by a man, depicting the subjugation and abuse of a woman as she transitions into motherhood. The film’s ending divided and appalled. It so upset sci-fi writer, Ray Bradbury, that he penned his own alternative one. But hey – maternal love wins the day, kind of!

Carrie (1976), dir. Brian De Palma

Smeared with blood and engulfed in a pit of fire, the original Carrie is an echo chamber of rage, fear and religious guilt. As horror-mothers go, Margaret White is pretty freaking terrifying. She bullies and controls her daughter, Carrie, making her a social outcast. In one of the film’s most distressing scenes, she moves from tenderly stroking her daughter’s hair, to trying to stab her to death. At the heart of her monstrousness is her own guilt at the act of conception, which she has projected onto her daughter. But female fertility, itself, is made horrifying, in the spectacle of Carrie’s first period. The outpouring of blood that follows, hails menstruation, sex and childbirth into a holy trinity of women’s otherness and unnatural power. And guess what…. she’s also a witch!

Alien (1979), dir. Ridley Scott

The alien bursting out of Kane’s chest, in the original Alien film, has to be one of the most parodied horror scenes of all time. In Alien 3, Ripley is unwittingly impregnated by the monstrous alien species that has plagued her for the previous two films. It’s easy to see how a fear of mothers and motherhood ties into the horrifying imagery of the Alien franchise. Writer David McIntee has argued that, at its heart, Alien and its sequels, depicts underlying male fear and ignorance of both pregnancy and childbirth.

Friday the 13th (1980), dir. Sean S. Cunningham

Killer: Name the killer in Friday the 13th

Casey: Jason! Jason! Jason!

Killer: I’m sorry. That’s the wrong answer

Casey: No, it’s not. It was Jason.

Killer: Afraid not.

Casey: It was Jason! I saw that movie 20 goddamn times!

Killer: Then you should know Jason’s mother, Mrs Voorhees, was the original killer. Jason didn’t show up until the sequel.

[Scream, 1997]

Some people, like Casey, forget that Jason’s mother was the original killer. In fact, the original scriptwriter never intended Jason to rise up as an avenging zombie killer at all. Jason’s final emergence from the lake (and the birth of a franchise!) was an afterthought, inspired by the final scene of Carrie. Mrs Voorhees is the ultimate Tiger Mom. As boogie (wo)men go, she has the strength to wield an axe and take on patriarchal society. But she too is a victim. She stands as a binary of fearless avenger and monstrous maternal grief.

The Ring (2002) dir. Gore Verbinski

Based on Hideo Nakata’s seminal 1998 Japanese original, Verbinski’s American remake veers more decisively towards perturbed matriarchy. Samara is basically the scariest child since Village of the Damned. Even still, her mother’s response is horrifying. Meanwhile, journalist Rachel (Naomi Watts) is so focussed on trying to unravel the mystery, she almost leads her own son to his death. Like the Japanese original, The Ring fixates on maternal anxiety and failings, but takes it a few steps further by making Samara’s own mother her killer. Can you protect your child against the monsters out there? But, is your child the monster? Are you?

Mama (2013) dir. Andrés Muschietti

There are many interesting things about Andy Muschietti’s Mama. One of them is that its original incantation was a three-minute Spanish-language film, Muschietti made five years earlier. Just like Mama herself, it was replaced by something more mainstream, with a bigger budget. The film’s monstrous apparition is the ultimate archaic mother of psychoanalytic theory – an all-powerful embodiment of a child’s early imaginings and nightmares. Propelled by vitriolic jealousy, she is hellbent on drawing her children back inside her and destroying anyone in her path. Visually, she is a nightmarish cartoon, seemingly rendered by a small child who cannot visually process the outside world. Plus, there are moths…. everywhere! One day, someone should just make a horror film about moths.

The Babadook (2014) dir. Jennifer Kent

Interestingly, this is the only mother-horror on our list, directed by a woman. The femaleness, the modernity and surprising realness of The Babadook make it a very different kind of horror film. In amidst the creepy imagery, this is a frank and straightforward tale of how being a single parent can drive you and your child a little bit crazy. The Babadook is a monster of the mind. It is sexual. It is alarming. It is a living breathing part of Amelia (Essie Davis), which she tries to suppress and hide from her son. The Babadook is less of a visceral, jump-out-your-skin experience and closer to a real psychological depiction of grief and isolation. Ultimately, you can’t escape Mr. Babadook. You just have to give him his own room and lay down some house rules.

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USA with Kids (blogs)

Winter in New York with Kids

With the colder weather, the snow and the ice, New York takes on even more of a magical appearance. Bundle the kids up warm and you may just find that the Big Apple is one of your favorite places in the US for a winter break. Festive decorations adorn shop windows, ornate Christmas trees inspire […]

The post Winter in New York with Kids appeared first on FlyingKids.


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B.C. wants teens signed up to vote

B.C.'s new chief electoral officer wants to extend voter registration to 16-year-olds while they are in high school.

B.C. Chief Electoral Officer Keith Archer

VICTORIA – With participation in elections declining at every level, B.C.’s new chief electoral officer wants to extend voter registration to 16-year-olds while they are in high school.

Keith Archer released a report Monday suggesting the government consider that move, to get more young people registered and ready to vote when they turn 18. Currently the lowest level of participation is in the 18-to-25 age group, as well as the lowest number of registered voters.

“Our sense is that by introducing a provisional voter register, we’ll be able to communicate with young voters earlier on, and probably to do so as part of their high school social studies curriculum,” Archer said. “And partnering with with social studies curriculum developers provides us with a real opportunity to enhance civics education within that group, and to address generally the importance of voting in a democracy.”

Attorney General Shirley Bond said Monday she supports the idea in principle, especially after Saturday’s municipal elections where fewer than one in three eligible voters too place in many communities.

“We simply have to look at the elections that took place on the weekend,” Bond told reporters. “We need to make sure we look at how we get our participation numbers up, and what better place to start than young people.”

Archer is also recommending that the government explore options for electronic voting, which is being studied by Ontario and the federal agency, Elections Canada.

Municipal leaders endorsed the idea of online voting in local elections by a two-to-one margin at their annual convention in September. Archer said current B.C. election law does not allow for anything other than paper-based voting at the provincial level.

Bond said online voting was a commitment of Premier Christy Clark’s leadership campaign, and she intends to appoint an expert panel shortly to make recommendations.

“We have to make sure that it’s safe and secure, and people have been worried about that,” Bond said.

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indulgence isotonic pillow sleep better carpenter

indulgence isotonic pillow sleep better carpenter Just what to know ahead you buy mattress online? indulgence isotonic pillow sleep better carpenter

Online Shopping is quite popular nowadays. We acquire every little thing from food to digital devices online. Nonetheless, when it concerns acquiring an item like a cushion that we are also used to going to the store as well as buy, we have the tendency to be reluctant occasionally. This can be rather warranted given that a cushion is a quite a considerable buy and returning such a product can be a trouble if you take place to make an error with your choice. Right here are several of the points that you should understand before you buy mattress online. indulgence isotonic pillow sleep better carpenter

Of all, it is essential that you understand the surveys of satisfaction degrees over purchasing a cushion has actually offered comparable outcomes to those that bought them on-line as well as offline by checking out a shop. Of all, the benefit of actually obtaining to try on the cushion that you get when you see a shop is normally covered by thousands of user evaluates one can find online. If a thousand out of thousand people are claiming that a cushion is comfortable, the possibilities are it is in fact comfy.

This “advantage” you think an offline shop has when acquiring a cushion is in fact not that much of an advantage when you think about a couple of points. For an instance, the example bed mattress that you are trying out in the store has actually been tried out by several individuals prior to. As a result, you will certainly not get that comfortable feeling with your new cushion up until after a couple of weeks when it is used for some time. This is why you have a far better chance at selecting a comfortable product by undergoing confirmed individual testimonials when you buy mattress online.

Currently that you know purchasing a cushion online will certainly not make you regret at the end, let’s see the things you can do it make your decision as better as possible.

indulgence isotonic pillow sleep better carpenter There are cushions which are much better for back sleepers compared to side sleepers. Know exactly what you are going for, and also after that begin searching for the cushion that would certainly match all your needs.

As pointed out above as well, one of the most significant advantages of online shopping is the accessibility to thousands of individual testimonials. There are uncommon opportunities that an item is a whole lot far better compared to exactly what it has been defined by the customers, however most of the time if the reviews are trustworthy, it would give you a great understanding right into the experience of making use of the cushion that you can not get from anywhere else.

Another problem when you buy mattress online is the cost. Generally, getting goods on-line had an extra cost for the delivery. There are lots of cushion companies on-line which would certainly arrange the delivery free of charge. Spend some time to seek them. Otherwise, you would certainly be losing your benefit of getting online. There are sales in the stores nearing seasonal times of the year. Attempt to obtain big products like mattresses on sale where in some cases they use up to 50% discount rates. Keep an eye on discount coupon supplies. If you have a little persistence to do some good digging on online, you will possibly have the ability to purchase the most effective mattress for the very best price possible.

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Stockbroking media analysts are dispassionate observers of the industry. One of the most respected of their number is Lorna Tilbian, now head of media at Numis. So what does she think of the current state of play, and the future? Here’s an edited version of her chapter in the forthcoming book, Last words? How can journalism survive the decline of print?

Any financial assessment of print’s structural change has been overwhelmed by the severe downturn in advertising as corporate profitability and consumer confidence collapsed in the wake of the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008.

This downturn has been particularly felt in higher yielding classified advertising sector where the main categories - recruitment, property and motors - have seen declines.

These reflect the initial weaknesses of their underlying markets in combination with the advent of powerful online players such as Rightmove, Auto Trader and Zoopla.

Historically, regional newspapers operated in local near-monopoly situations with respect to local advertisers and readers. But the internet allowed the development of pure-play classified sites that extended beyond print circulation areas.

They built a pre-eminent market share of “eyeballs”, which have provided a powerful barrier to entry to regional publishers who tried to maintain a local, or hyperlocal, alternative.

By contrast, the combined revenues of Rightmove and Zoopla now represent more than 50% of estate agent marketing spend. As for motors, Auto Trader has been the big digital winner.

Regional newspapers have therefore become increasingly reliant on display advertising.

The circulation of regional papers has been in decline for several decades, reflecting demographic change and increasing competition from other media. Cover price increases have been used to keep circulation revenue decline to single digit percentages.

There has been a divergence in the performance of paid weeklies and morning and evening daily titles. Paid weeklies tend to serve smaller communities where local ties are stronger. As a result, they have experienced more stable circulation.

By contrast, declines in morning and evening daily titles have been more significant. They tend to serve larger towns and cities where competition from other media is stronger and local community ties are weaker.

The biggest expense in running a newspaper business are employees who account for almost half of industry costs, followed by newsprint, which takes around 10%. The remaining costs are for distribution, production, retailing and general administration.

Continued significant declines in regional display advertising hammer home the structural pressures that publishers continue to face as a result of the transition to digital along with the presence of competing digital players in each of the key advertising markets.

More people are reading newspapers than ever before. But that increased audience is doing so through access to free content on newspaper websites.

And publishers have yet to find an online circulation model that can replicate the circulation revenue stream they made from print.

A subscription model offers several advantages over newsstand copy sales, with greater resilience to economic pressure and the ability to implement smaller, regular price rises.

In addition, a direct billing relationship with readers offers greater potential to sell additional goods and services, while a better knowledge of the reader creates a more attractive advertising proposition. At face value, transition to an online paid model should be more straightforward.

Broadly speaking, publishers have been slow to capitalise on the opportunities that digital presents. Group M estimates digital revenues accounted for just over 22% of regional advertising revenues in 2016.

The next decade will see newspapers move away from a free ad-funded model towards a diverse range of online business models appropriate to the publisher’s readership base.

I think audience reach and demographic are key to determining online success, especially through “enterprise revenues”, those derived from selling additional goods and services to a newspaper’s readership base.

Whilst accounting at present for a small proportion of industry revenue, enterprise will become an increasingly important part of a diversified online model and is an area increasingly being investigated by a number of consumer publishers (both newspaper and magazines).

Four important factors will drive the development of enterprise revenues. First, titles with affluent demographics have had the most success is generating enterprise revenues. Second, the larger the circulation, the larger the potential customer base.

Third, a strong brand is trusted by potential consumers. Fourth, a direct billing relationship with readers, through a pre-paid subscription, provides a powerful advantage in driving enterprise revenues.

The debate over charging for content continues to be at the forefront of the newspaper industry. While a number of paid-content models have been introduced over the last few years, there is limited financial detail allowing an accurate assessment of the relative success of the varying models.

There are clearly a number of paid-content options ranging from a complete “walled-garden” or models that work on a metered basis or pay-per-article. But there are several important factors that must be considered when assessing the paid-content debate.

Firstly, general national and international news has been commoditised and the market for it has been obscured by the BBC’s significant online presence.

Secondly, consumers will only pay for content they value. This can be for its journalistic enjoyment (favouring a particular columnist), its niche content (sports/financial/special interest) or its lack of substitutability.

Thirdly, the addictive popularity of smartphones and tablets may increase readers’ propensity to pay for content that is delivered through an app. Consumers would therefore be paying for “context” as well as content.

In summary, a true digital strategy will incorporate a range of revenue models suitable for the readership size and demographic.

*Last words? How can journalism survive the decline of print? Edited by John Mair, Tor Clark, Neil Fowler, Raymond Snoddy and Richard Tait (Abramis, £19.95). £15 for Guardian readers, available by email to


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Diana tapes filmed by voice coach to air on Channel 4 documentary

Controversial footage to be shown on British television for first time to mark the 20th anniversary of Princess’s death

Diana, Princess of Wales, pictured with soldiers in Sarajevo, is the subject of documentaries marking her death.
Diana, Princess of Wales, pictured with soldiers in Sarajevo, is the subject of several documentaries marking the 20th anniversary of her death. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PA

A new documentary about Diana, Princess of Wales featuring controversial video tapes recorded by her voice coach is to be shown on Channel 4.

Ahead of the 20th anniversary of the Princess’s death, the film includes Diana speaking candidly and informally about her upbringing, her courtship with the Prince of Wales, her troubled marriage and her public life.

The tapes – recorded by Diana’s speech coach Peter Settelen – have never before been broadcast on British television. Some of the footage is being shown for the first time.

The announcement that the video tapes are to be aired in the UK comes as ITV prepares to screen its own Diana documentary on Monday evening. It features the Princess’s sons, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, opening up about their loss, including their regret at their final, brief phone call with their mother.

Diana hired Settelen between 1992 and 1993 to help improve her public speaking voice, following her collaboration with author Andrew Morton on a biography and ahead of her bombshell Panorama interview in 1995.

The footage, filmed at her private residence in Kensington Palace, shows Diana rehearsing her speaking voice and reflecting at length about her life.

Ralph Lee, Channel 4’s head of factual, said the documentary was an “important contribution to the historical record”.

“The tapes, which show a relaxed and off-duty Diana, are hugely illuminating about her personality, humour and charm,” he said.

Others featured in the film include Dr James Colthurst, the Princess’s friend of more than 30 years, and Anne Allan, her ballet teacher. Both are speaking on the record for the first time.

The tapes were returned to Settelen in 2004 after a lengthy dispute with Diana’s family, headed by Earl Spencer, who said the footage belonged to them.

A batch of some 20 videos had been held by Scotland Yard after being seized in a January 2001 raid on the home of former royal butler Paul Burrell.

The content of the tapes was regarded as so sensitive that the prosecution agreed not to use them in Burrell’s trial at the Old Bailey, which collapsed in 2002.

The tapes were later sold to American broadcaster NBC for an undisclosed sum and excerpts were broadcast in 2004, showing Diana talking of how Charles “leapt upon” her to kiss her at the start of their relationship.

She also described running to the Queen after she became convinced that Charles had resumed his romance with Camilla Parker Bowles.

She said: “I went to the top lady and I’m sobbing. And I said, ‘What do I do?’ (The Queen) said, ‘I don’t know – Charles is hopeless’.”

In 2004, the screening was met with criticism amid calls for the tapes not to be shown for at least 100 years.

Sir Teddy Taylor, then Tory MP for Rochford and Southend East, appealed to broadcasters’ “sense of decency” not to air the tapes while Diana’s sons were still alive.


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Video of Orlando shooter emerges in footage for BP oil spill documentary

Omar Mateen, the gunman who killed 49 people at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, appeared in the 2012 BP oil spill documentary The Big Fix. It shows him working as a security guard at a cleanup site in Florida and telling a woman who pulls up to his guard booth that everyone is ‘hoping for more oil to come out and more people to complain so they’ll have the jobs’


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Saturday, June 27, 2015

How to Scare Your Children Into Listening (Green Tea Face Mask!)

Okay okay, so that's not really how we parent our children. They weren't really scared, they just looked at me like I was a lunatic. My daughter kept saying "we needa clean your face mommy! What do you have on ya face mommy?!" My son. Aw, my poor son. He was really confused and upset at first. Look at this face. But he was quickly eager to touch it once he got over the shock.

This recipe is so easy you're going to be furious at me for writing a post about it, but I really do think it helps my complexion. After I washed it all off I had very smooth, happy skin. So here's the recipe:

Matcha Green Tea.

Go ahead. Slay me. Ha! I just put it on a plate and added some water, then slathered it on my face, and reaped the benefits. I let it dry, then washed it off. It's on my face for about 20 minutes. After that I added some vitamin C serum to my face, and had even more benefits! So where can you get a beautiful face like mine? Here are the links to the products I've been using:

Kiss Me Organics Matcha Tea Powder:here
Vitamin C Serum: here

Then I add in a moisturizer and get ready for my day!

Do you have a go to face mask?

I received these products in exchange for my honest review.
Beth Ann
Beth Ann

Beth Ann is a mom to 3 crazy hooligans, and a wife to one (mostly absent against his will) sailor.

  1. Bahahahaha!! Omgosh I do this to my son with my mint mask!! He gets all freaked and is totally unsure... seriously hilarious!! I willl have to try these items!! Im always looking for a new beauty regimen and a new way to terrify my child lol!!

    1. Ooo, I bet a mint mask is delightful! That's such a nice scent. :)

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