text:
Thursday, 27 June 2013

Some Of My Summer Essentials

I've been  planning to post this "edit" since the beginning of June, when we got to enjoy a lot of sunshine :) but choosing the products to feature was harder than I thought. When I was preparing this post, I put over 30 products in my summer basket, but I managed to narrow it down to 17 :) Most of them are products I discovered recently, but I also included some of my all time favourites.

My favourite face SPF is the L'Óccitane Angelica UV Shield. I repurchased it recently and I absolutely love it. It smells nice, feels hydrating and soothing and it is everything I look for in a face SPF lotion. It costs £26.00  though, so if you can recommend a cheaper alternative, I would appreciate it :)

On my body, I use Riemann P10 (or P20) and a Piz Buin Tan Intensifier with SPF 15. The first one is my all time favourite and a product I repurchased many times. It is water resistant and lasts on the skin for 10 hours, making it perfect for everyday use in summer or when you go on holiday. It is currently on sale on Amazon for £9.99 (here) - perfect time to stock up!

The scent of the Piz Buin Tan Intensifier reminds me of summer and that's why I can't imagine sunbathing without it! It really helps to get a long lasting tan and I highly recommend it. I buy Piz Buin products from Boots or Superdug, when they are on offer. The normal price is around £10.00.

I recently discovered, that you can take SPF capsules to help protect your skin from the sun. SPF SKin Pro-Factors*(£15.65) by Viridian are formulated to be taken during the summer months, but they DO NOT replace the need to use sunscreen.  The capsule contains GliSODin known for promoting cellular health and the production of the body's own antioxidants. I think that the capsules are a fantastic idea, especially for people with pale skin, who burn easily (like my husband).

Wearing tons of makeup in the sun isn't my favourite thing and I generally try to avoid it on hot days. To add a little bit of coverage and reduce the appearance of imperfections, I reach for BB creams and tinted moisturisers. Vichy Idealia BB Cream* is my new favourite in the BB Cream department and I love using it as an everyday base. It is a great multi-tasker, offering SPF 25, hydration and medium coverage. It instantly smoothes fine lines, covers minor imperfections and adds a beautiful glow to my face. It is available in two shades (light and medium),designed to adapt to different skin tones. Shade light looks very natural on me and it is a perfect match. You can see on the photos below, that the product looks very skin-like on my face. I am super impressed! On top of that, the formula works deep in the epidermis to correct discolouration and restore a natural glow.

You can buy it from , who offer up to 1/3 off French Pharmacy brands until the end of June. The BB Cream is currently reduced from £21.00 to £14.00! Bargain!

Vichy Idealia BB Cream

It is very important to keep your skin hydrated, especially after sunbathing. I get terribly dry skin after spending time in the sun and I always need oils and gels to repair the damage.

To instantly soothe the skin, I love using the Liz Earle Botanical After Sun Gel. With it's 92% aloe vera content, it cools and calms the skin, making it feel soft and hydrated. It is a must have if you are going on holiday, retailing at a very affordable £13.50 for the 200 ml tube.

To repair the skin and restore moisture, I have been using the NEOM Complete Bliss Organic Body Oil* (£30.00). It is the most luxurious body oil I have ever tried and it smells absolutely incredible! Complete Bliss is a blend of Moroccan Blush Rose, Black Pepper and Lime, making it a perfect, uplifting summer scent. I use it after showering, to lock moisture, or on dry skin, when it needs some TLC. Complete Bliss Body Oil leaves my skin super soft and plump, without an oily residue. Enriched with organic Safflower, Jojoba, vitamins A & E and essential fatty acids, it is perfect to keep your skin nourished during the summer months. If you are looking for a luxurious oil, made with natural and organic ingredients, I highly recommend trying NEOM Organics.

I mentioned the Roger & Gallet Huile Sublime D'Órange Dry Oil (£8.40) in my favourites post and my recent haul. I received a 30ml sample a couple of weeks ago and decided to stock up immediately :) haha. I will probably go for the 100ml bottle the next time, because I am addicted! It is a perfumed dry oil and can be used on your body, hair and face. I haven't used it on my face, but I love massaging it into my skin every morning. My favourite part must be the beautiful scent of orange essential oil, known for it's toning properties.The formula is also  enriched with with 6 active plant oils and vitamin E to nourish and soften the skin.

Summer wouldn't be the same without shimmering body oils! Oh my.... I adore them! My most recent purchase is the Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil by The Body Shop. I got it with a 40% discount code recently, but it retails at £16.00. I got the 02 Golden Honey option and I am in love with the way it looks on my skin. It leaves subtle shimmer, without looking to sparkly and helps to enhance a tan and nourish the skin. It smells amazing too! Perfect!

Another area I am always concerned about is the delicate skin around my eyes. I use eye creams and eye serums every day, but the Organic Surge Eye Gel* (£8.49) seems to be the most soothing one. The light gel formula helps to cool the skin, feels very refreshing and it is suitable for sensitive eyes. Enriched with Aloe Vera and Green Tea, this product is a great choice to hydrate, reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

I am also using Hydraluron allover my face and around the eye area after toning my skin,but I am sure that I raved about this product already. I thought that I will only need it in winter, because central heating was drying out my skin terribly,but... the sun has a similar effect on my poor face :( I am finishing my 3rd tube right now and I will be purchasing a new one asap!    Hydraluron makes my other products perform much better and keeps my skin super hydrated.

FAKING IT with self-tan!

We don't get enough sunshine in the UK, so fake tanning became my weekly ritual :) One of my Holy Grail self- tanning products is He-Shi Express Liquid Tan. I reviewed it on the blog last year and I am still a massive fan. It is totally hassle free and gives me a gorgeous colour.

I also tried their Face + Body Tanning Gel* (£17.50) recently and I think that it is equally good. One layer of the gel gives my skin an instant bronzed glow and I can put my clothes on 5 minutes after the application. If I want a deeper colour, I add an extra layer (or two) in the evening and wake up with a beautiful tan in the morning. The formula is easy to apply and goes on streak free. You can see the results, after one application of the gel, on the photos below:

If you love the look of effortless beach hair, you probably own a bottle of the Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray* (£19.50). I adore messy hairstyles and I use various products to add more volume and lift the roots. In summer, I tend to go for salt sprays. I only used this one twice, but I love the effects! After washing my hair, I dry it with a towel, wait about an hour and spray a generous amount of the Surf Spray onto the ends of my hair. Instead of letting it dry naturally at the final stage, I use a hairdryer with a diffuser to add more volume. The spray adds a lot of texture to my fine, straight hair and makes it look "messy on purpose". If you have straight hair (like me) - the spray is not going to give you waves or curls. I don't know where people get this idea from. I try to avoid using salt sprays on my scalp, but working a small amount into the roots didn't cause irritation.  I can feel the product in my hair, but I am used to it, because I usually go for dusting powders.

Another summer must have for me - blotting papers! On hot days my T-Zone goes crazy and to keep it under control, I reach for these bad boys. They are hassle free and I always keep a packet in my handbag.

To combat dry lips, I am using the amazing Pommade Divine. It is deeply nourishing and keeps my lips super soft. I have tried many lip balms, but this one quickly became my favourite. It is a multipurpose product and can be used anywhere on your body. I also like applying it to my knees and elbows. You can buy 3 x10ml tubes, a 30ml jar or a 50ml tube from Cult Beauty.

Let's face it - most people hate feet and try to avoid this subject. I am one of them! I can only look at baby feet, without feeling sick :) Adult feet are a no, no and totally freak me out! I don't worry about it too much in winter, but when I wear sandals in summer, I want my feet to look as good as possible.

 I use a couple of different tools for my weekly pedicure, but I find the Stylfile S-Ped* the easiest one to use. The curved shape makes it very comfortable to hold and the double sided emery file works like a dream, by buffing away dry skin and revealing soft and smooth feet. You can buy it from Boots, Amazon and Sainsbury's for  £8.99.

Stylfile S-Ped was designed by Tom Pellereau (the winner of The Apprentice 2011), who also designed the Nipper Clipper (for cutting baby nails). I am still on a mission to get one, but it is sold out everywhere!

Wow... Another long post, but... I hope that I gave you some good recommendations for summer. Let me know, if you use any of the products I featured and make sure to share your summer must haves as well. I am always on the lookout for new products :)

*products marked with an asterisk are PR samples

My Exclusive June Advertiser is Vicki from

  1. Wow what a great post and mix of products. Defs some ones on there which I really want to try.Not too keen on the Bumble and bumble salt spray though it made my hair gross! Much preffer the tony & guy version, but that probably because my hair is a big messy bush anyway lol xx

    MyLushBoxBlog | Bloglovin’

  2. Great choices, I've been really enjoying the Vichy BB cream :)

    Sophierosehearts x

  3. I don't have a Summer basket but I have a bedtime basket :-)
    Laura from Twinkle Style & Travel Magazine and A Life With Frills

  4. Bookmarked this post! Lots of goodies I need to go back and check out (especially those body oils you mentioned), thanks for sharing them with us!

  5. I've been using the GOSH sea salt sprayfor a few years and really liked it at first but now not so much, def gonna have to try the bumble & bumble. Great post x

  6. Great post, dying to try the Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray - the Vichy bb cream looks great!

    stellashek | shop | giveaway

  7. I saw the body oil from body shop the other day and wanted it so bad! But I didn't know how it'd look - your positive review is definitely edging me towards grabbing it next time! xx

    Daphne | Peanut Butter and Chocolate | bloglovin'

Thank you very much for your comment. If you have an important question, you can contact me via Twitter: @TheBlackPearlB

PS. I approve all comments manually, so giveaway links and other spam comments will be removed.

Love xxx Sandra

01 09 10


Content-Type: application/http; msgtype=response

WARC-Type: response

text:
The Body: The Complete HIV/AIDS Resource
Follow Us Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on Twitter Download Our App
Professionals >> Visit The Body PROThe Body en Espanol
Ask the Experts About

Choosing Your MedsChoosing Your Meds
Rollover images to visit our other forums!
Recent AnswersAsk a Question
  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

hiv dont exists?

Dec 15, 2007

hi there is it true that hiv dont exists in lab? and drugs do called arv kill people taking them long term?

Response from Dr. Young

Not true at all.

HIV can be photographed, isolated and analyzed in the laboratory.

ARVs (antiertroviral) medications are generally very well tolerated and reverse the damaging effects of HIV. In rare cases, severe side effects can occur, very rarely, these side effects have resulted in death. Such fatal side effects usually emerge in the short term (usually allergic reactions); for persons who are tolerating their medications, long term safety is very good and not associated with longer term lethal effects.

im nervous (part 2)

  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

 Get Email Notifications When This Forum Updates or Subscribe With RSS

This forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not rendering medical, mental health, legal or other professional advice or services. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, mental health, legal or other problem that requires advice, consult your own caregiver, attorney or other qualified professional.

Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither nor any advertiser is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.

Review our complete terms of use and copyright notice.

Powered by ExpertViewpoint

warcinfo:
robots: classic
hostname: ip-10-171-10-108.ec2.internal
software: Nutch 1.6 (CC)/CC WarcExport 1.0
isPartOf: CC-MAIN-2017-09
operator: CommonCrawl Admin
description: Wide crawl of the web for February 2017
publisher: CommonCrawl
format: WARC File Format 1.0
conformsTo: http://bibnum.bnf.fr/WARC/WARC_ISO_28500_version1_latestdraft.pdf


text:
The Body: The Complete HIV/AIDS Resource
Follow Us Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on Twitter Download Our App
Professionals >> Visit The Body PROThe Body en Espanol
Ask the Experts About

Nutrition and ExerciseNutrition and Exercise
Rollover images to visit our other forums!
Recent AnswersAsk a Question
  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

Jul 8, 2014

Hi if have a script for hcg what pharmacies do you think have the best prices

Response from Mr. Vergel

If you fax it to, they will give you a free one vial of 11,ooo IU if you register on

Their price is around $75 per 11,000 IU vial.

More information on HCG here: The Use of HCG to Prevent / Reverse Testicular Shrinkage and Preserve Fertility

Let me know if you have any questions.

supplementing with probiotics

  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

 Get Email Notifications When This Forum Updates or Subscribe With RSS

This forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not rendering medical, mental health, legal or other professional advice or services. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, mental health, legal or other problem that requires advice, consult your own caregiver, attorney or other qualified professional.

Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither nor any advertiser is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.

Review our complete terms of use and copyright notice.

Powered by ExpertViewpoint


text:
The Body: The Complete HIV/AIDS Resource
Follow Us Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on Twitter Download Our App
Professionals >> Visit The Body PROThe Body en Espanol
Ask the Experts About

Strategies for Treatment-Experienced HIVersStrategies for Treatment-Experienced HIVers
Rollover images to visit our other forums!
  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

Re: question about hidden virus
Jul 21, 2006

Dear Eric,

i'm referring to this previous question & answer. you indicated that after testing hiv+ thru' ELISA/WB antibodies test, VL proves that there's virus present. here's my situation: 36yr old female. tested positive 2yrs ago. 2 ELIZA/WB. my VL was undetectable upto this day, <50. no medication. CD4 range 600-950. i visit my doctor every 3mths for CD4/VL count as well as other tests. all tests neg-. i.e hep A,B,C. neg-TB, liver & kidney okey, CD% good e.t.c. healthy in other words. my hubby of 4yrs been negative. i never 'cheated' on him since we met 5yrs ago. so i must have been exposed before, i don't know how long ago. last 2 boyfriends, negative. condom have broken afew times during intercourse, thanks God my hubby still negative. questions: is this normal diagnosis? do you have frequent similar cases? where would the virus be hiding? what is likely to keep it at bay? what are the scientific findings towards such individuals? pls comment on this case. pls bear with me for too many questions. thank you for your continued support.

concerned, NYC

Response from Dr. Daar

Hi NYC, Based upon what you have written and assuming your HIV-1 antibody test is fully positive by Western blot and there have been no mistakes, I would assume that you are infected. With repeatedly undetectable viral loads and normal CD4 cells you may be one of the relatively rare that has done an outstanding job controlling HIV without therapy. There are select other reasons why this could happen because of assay issues, but these would seem less likely. It is generally thought that it is the immune system that is responsible for controlling the virus in situations like this. There may also be other factors contributing to your success.

The fact that virus is not detected in blood does not mean that it is not present in the body. Presumably HIV persists in various tissues throughout the body including the lymph nodes. At this point I would just discuss these issues with your provider, make sure that all of the tests for HIV antibodies are correctly interpretted, and if they are keep doing what your are doing because it seems to be working.

Best, Eric

Growing midsection: Meds or gluttony?
early treatment

  • Email Email
  • Glossary Glossary

This forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not rendering medical, mental health, legal or other professional advice or services. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, mental health, legal or other problem that requires advice, consult your own caregiver, attorney or other qualified professional.

Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither nor any advertiser is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.

Review our complete terms of use and copyright notice.

Powered by ExpertViewpoint


WARC-Truncated: length

text:
Happy 2017 lovely ladies of Stitch Fix! We all made it into this fresh, beautiful, brand new year, and I wish you all will have the best time in it. I hope you’ll continue to join me on this space, and on TheBoxQueen social media this year too; we’ll have so much fun as always!

This year also marks the beginning of the 4th year of TheBoxQueen. Balloons and confetti ladies!! (and as it also marks my 4th year of reviewing Stitch Fix, a $50 Stitch Fix Gift Card Giveaway to celebrate with waits for you at the end of this post- make sure to enter :-))  I am so excited for a new year of sharing my love of style, fitness, sub boxes and all around life with you ladies. I am of course excited for all the new Stitch Fix Boxes I’ll be receiving and reviewing too. <3

UPDATE 2: February 2017 Stitch Fix Review + $350 Gift Card Giveaway is Live!

UPDATE: 2nd Stitch Fix January 2017 Review & New Stitch Fix Gift Card Giveaway is Live!

If you are new to TheBoxQueen, I invite you to start from here to read about how Stitch Fix works, and how to get the best Stitch Fix possible for you!! Also below find some of my Stitch Fix highlights.

You can find my Pinterest Stitch Fix board here. I update it regularly with new Stitch Fix pieces available, and my own SF outfits.

How Stitch Fix Works and How to Get Your Best Fix

At Stitch Fix Website, you fill out a VERY detailed style profile. They ask everything from your height, weight, to top and bottom sizes. You include details on the types of styles you like such as glamorous, preppy or boho as well as a bunch of info on how you want things to fit.

Theboxqueen’s Tip: Be as honest with yourself here as possible. I remember when I first filled my style profile, I answered the Q’s with more of what I dream my style to be rather than what was actually needed for my current lifestyle. I am a mom of three young kids. I love glam style, and incorporate that into my life here and there. The truth is most glam pieces are not functional for my everyday life. I now ask for more casual styles.

My suggestion is to fill out the style profile even if you are not ready to order just now; it’ll give you an idea on your style and you’ll get a sense on what Stitch Fix is about.

  • You pay a $20 styling fee upfront. This is applied to your keepers, so if you keep at least one piece you don’t lose it.  Also when you keep your whole box ( like I did a couple times so far) you get 25% off the entire purchase. I always keep at least one piece as I would hate to lose my styling fee.
  • Make a Pinterest board that is a good representation of your style. Pin types of Stitch Fix pieces you like as well as your own photos so the stylists can see who they are styling and your fashion choices.

Theboxqueen’s Tip: Here is my personal Stitch Fix Pinterest Board. I pin what I like from Stitch Fix here as well as how I styled previous pieces so the stylists can get a better idea of what I like, my body type etc. I think these all help them find the best pieces for me. Feel free to join me there to see what I am liking from new SF items, and my new SF outfits.

  • Leave detailed notes to your stylist when you check out. When it’s time for checking out, they ask you for feedback on your fix. Write why you loved your keeper item(s), and the specific reasons why a piece didn’t work for you.

Theboxqueen’s Tip: I always make sure to include details such as ” The waist was a tad too tight” or ” The color wasn’t flattering on me” or ” The skirt was two inches too short for my taste”. The more specific the better.

  • Make requests but know that there are no guarantees. One fun thing about Stitch Fix is the surprise factor, and how it pushes you out of your comfort zone.
  • If you don’t want to wait too long for fixes, sign up for automatic shipments. You can determine the frequency. I usually go for once a month nowadays but I may make it more frequent again once the new season rolls in.
  • You have three days to decide, and mix and match with your own clothes. When you are done, you send back everything you don’t want to keep; in a prepaid envelope included with your box. Love how quick and easy this system works.
  • I love that SF now offers exchanges. Do you love your items but need a smaller or bigger size? Just let them know to make an exchange.
  • Stitch Fix now offers petite, and maternity styles and recently started Men’s Styling. YAY!!!!!

I get a lot of e-mails with the question ” What do you ask for in your personal style profile?“.

I ask for pieces that are suitable for a mom of three kids under the age of 12, but who also loves cool, trendy items that can easily be mixed and matched. I think you can definitely be a mom, and stay chic especially with comfy pieces high on style. In addition, I ask for colors, a variety of textures, and prints. I think these bring life to your closet, and also to your existing outfits.

Ready to see what I got in the first Stitch Fix of the year? I thought so! 🙂 I can’t wait to show them all to you. This month I received a patterned tunic, a burgundy cardigan, a pair of glam heels, a crossbody bag, and finally a dress with laser cut details. Let’s begin lovelies.

Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic
Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic

Stitch Fix styled the tie waist tunic in a casual jeans look as well as a fancier skirt outfit. Btw I have the fringe crossbody they show on the styling card. I kept it from this review. So pretty!

Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic
Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic

Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic ($64)

Style Tip: This tunic (see this similar style I also love, comes in 3 colors) has so many pretty elements to it. The color mix is beautiful, the small V neck is very flattering, and the length is just right. I also like the drawstring detail as it provides definition. I paired the tunic with my favorite ripped jeans ( current similar style) and latest shoe addition, purple pumps. The crossbody bag (I also love this leather version) that also came in January Stitch Fix box was the final touch to my boho chic look with an edge.

Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic
Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic

Status – Returned

For all of you ladies that are looking for a tunic, pin this beauty as it is really a gorgeous piece, and the design details are universally flattering. I bought this tunic recently in color blue  so I had to pass this one up. Loved this Dee Elle piece and it was a bit hard to put it back in the return envelope I’ll openly admit.

Street Level Braylen Structured Saddle Bag ($54)

The Street Level saddle bag was one of the pieces I pinned on my Stitch Fix Pinterest Board.  It’s big enough to hold more than your essentials, it comes in a rich red color that is striking in person, and to top it all it has a big tassel attached, very on trend! If you are looking for a vegan leather option this is your bag ladies, and if you need the leather version I LOVE this one.

Status – Returned

I was trying to decide between my eventual keeper piece (which I adore btw) and this bag. In the end I decided to go with the leather version of the bag for my closet. I use crossbody bags so much that I thought I may as well. If you want a seasonal red bag though this one is certainly a beauty. I do have a green vegan leather bag from Stitch Fix that I still use from time to time.

Street Level Braylen Structured Saddle Bag
Street Level Braylen Structured Saddle Bag

Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic
Dee Elle Abey Tie Waist Tunic

Top: Stitch Fix (Similar Tunic) | Jeans: Old ( Love this Similar Style) | Bag: Stitch Fix ( Love this Option) | Shoes: Vince Camuto  (Kept from this Trunk Club Review) Jewelry: Wantable (All Wantable Reviews here)

Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress
Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress

Stitch Fix styled Brixon Ivy Laser Cut Dress in a classic look as well as an edgier, modern outfit layered with a moto jacket.

Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress
Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress

Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress ($78)

Style Tip: This dress is in a bold, gorgeous blue, and the scalloped details add a light, girly feel to it. As the dress (also love this lace dark blue dress) is a solid color, and plain otherwise, I wanted to bring in some sparkle with my accessories. I added designer jewelry from this months Rocksbox, including the crystal earrings I got & kept from them. ( If you still have not tried your FREE MONTH of Rocksbox you are seriously missing out. I LOVE having an ever changing high quality jewelry closet from them. – Get your FREE MONTH here with CODE: theboxqueenxoxo )

The red embroidered clutch (see this super cute option) brought in a fun element, and the stunning cage heels (almost identical -same brand) that also came in January Stitch Fix box added a feminine touch that I love.

Status – Returned

If you’ve seen my Best of Stitch Fix 2016, and Best Party Outfits posts recently, I have a few of this type of dresses. In addition, although I did like this dress, it did not completely wow me for some reason. I did like the shape & fit.

Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress
Brixon Ivy James Laser Cut Dress

Dress: Stitch Fix ( Love this Similar Style, Pretty Option 2) | Shoes: Stitch Fix ( Identical Pair Same Brand) | Clutch: Old – (LOVE this embroidered option) | Jewelry: Rocksbox ( Get your FREE MONTH here with CODE: theboxqueenxoxo )

BCBGeneration Thatcher T-Strap Caged Heel
BCBGeneration Thatcher T-Strap Caged Heel

BCBGeneration Thatcher T-Strap Caged Heel ($110)

How gorgeous are these heels? I love the material, the straps, and the heel.

Status – Returned

I returned this pair because I found this almost identical pair of heels from the same brand on major sale!! I of course grabbed them. At under $45 I thought I could not go wrong.

RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan
RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan

Stitch Fix showed the versataility of the RD Cocoon Cardigan by pairing it with jeans and a lovely dress.

RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan
RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan

RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan ($58)

This burgundy cocoon cardigan attracted my attention the moment it came out of the Stitch Fix box. This season I am having a burgundy fest with my wardrobe, and I loved the unique dropped arms, the chunky knit along with the long length of the cardi. My choice was between this piece and the bag but I must say the cardigan finished very strong. It has been worn two times already in less than a week.

Style Tip: I paired my keeper piece with ripped boyfriend jeans, a grey long sleeve top, and my teal pumps. Ladies try light pink with burgundy. I think it is an unexpected pairing and looks pretty. I added a pink bag (love this one), and a couple eye catching jewelry pieces including a House of Harlow necklace, and designer earrings.

Status – Kept

I LOVED the cardigan, and kept it. <3

Top: Elizabeth & Clarke – From This Review ( Sign up to get their fab shirts here, 10% OFF with CODE: CBOXQUEEN10 ) | Cardigan: Stitch Fix ( Love this Similar Option) | Jeans: Old ( Like This Option Too) | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Jewelry & Bag: Vogue Tote ( Get your first  Vogue Tote 50% OFF with CODE: VTBQueen50 )

RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan
RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan
RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan
RD Style Warren Airy Knit Cocoon Cardigan

OVERALL IMPRESSIONS: Once again my stylist sent me a box full of pretties, and gave me a great addition to my closet. Ladies I, after 51!!!! boxes, think you should definitely try Stitch Fix.  After so many years with the personal styling service, I can say realistically that it cheers up your wardrobe and adds a fun touch to it. Use all the tips I gave above, write detailed notes to your stylist and tell me all about your first box lovelies. <3

Which outfit is your favorite ladies? Have you received anything special from Stitch Fix lately? I would love to hear it all. <3

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you don’t want to miss posts like this, and want to hear about the updates, and news first, don’t forget to subscribe on top of the page. So happy to have you join us!

In case you are a social media maven, you can also find me below so we can share more parts of our lives, and connect more. I share daily deals, latest happenings over at TheBoxQueen Facebook page; come find me if you want instant updates. I also share my outfits, and new finds on TheBoxQueen Pinterest.

Have a wonderful day lovely ladies! Stay your amazing selves, and stay stylish! XOXO,

This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you use them. (at no extra cost to you) Thanks so much for supporting TheBoxQueen.

Linking up with What I Wore & Stitch Fix Link-Up!

 photo signature_zpsefe96920.png

  • Susan Jeffries

    I love that tunic!! I never thought to pair it with denim – fabulous!! I would love to try that style. I also would love a blush faux leather moto jacket that I can style into spring. So many cute items here! Susan

    • Theboxqueen

      Blush moto jacket sounds amazing Susan! I love styling that color. Lately I’ve been trying to find different outfit options for my tunics instead of just pairing with leggings. Love to hear you liked it with denim 🙂 Thanks so much! XOXO, Elif

  • msrodeobrat

    I haven’t tried stitch fix yet! I love that blue laser cut dress styled with a leather jacket! I have tried that look for myself and I just haven’t found the right dress to wear with my leather jacket, or the right occasion to wear it. I so enjoy seeing your box each month!
    Ashley C
    addictedtorodeo at gmail dot com

    • Theboxqueen

      I am so happy you enjoy seeing my box reviews. 🙂 Stitch Fix is so fun; I love choosing from what they send me, and especially like the colors & patterns they carry. The blue laser cut dress would look fab with a leather jacket I agree. It is a flattering A line but not too puffy. Happy Wed! XOXO, Elif

  • meljc

    I already have a burgundy car coat and a cranberry cross body. Thanks for the styling ideas!

    • Theboxqueen

      Love burgundy & cranberry tones. Happy you like the styling ideas. XOXO, Elif

  • Jamie Woodbury

    You look fabulous in everything, as always. I personally would love that cardigan. The color is beautiful I love the way you styled it. That tunic was pretty cute too!

    • Theboxqueen

      Thanks so much Jamie! I’ve been wearing the cardigan so much since I kept it. Super easy to wear style & love the color. Happy Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Audrey Johansson

    I love that cardigan I think I might have to request it.

    • Theboxqueen

      Totally recommend the cardigan Audrey. XOXO, Elif

  • Trenise

    I look forward to your stitch fix reviews. Everything looks great on you! I especially love the colorful tunic and the caged heels.

    • Theboxqueen

      So happy to hear you like the reviews Trenise! Thanks so much. I was so happy to find those almost identical style of the same brand of caged heels on sale. XOXO, Elif

  • Sarah Atkinson Stoll

    I’m glad you mentioned burgundy with pink. One of my favorite outfits is a burgundy cardigan with pink jeggings from Gap. Always wondered what everyone else thought lol

    • Theboxqueen

      I am with you on burgundy with pink Sarah. I love them together 🙂 Happy Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Kay Martin-Pence

    Love the cardigan! I had to pin that one for a future fix. Great overall fix, love the colors and styles

    • Theboxqueen

      I can’t recommend the cardigan enough Kay. This was a super fun box. XOXO, Elif

  • Laura

    I am good with winter clothes, but do needs some long sleeve causal shirts, that can be dressed up or down. I think from your fix, I like the tunic, thought I would have to think about the colors

    • Theboxqueen

      Plain long sleeve tees are an important part of my closet too Laura. I have plenty in my closet for layering, and they are like a canvas you can accessories over. Have a fab Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Courtney

    Absolutely love the cardigan and the color! This is something I’d love on myself.. although I cannot afford to try Stitch Fix on the kind of budget I have. This is is a great review for future reference though! 🙂

    • Theboxqueen

      The cardigan is both casual and fun. I am so glad I kept it. Hope you can try SF one day soon in the future Courtney, thanks for saying hi and best of luck with the giveaway. XOXO, Elif

  • Marilyn Nawara

    My favorite piece is the Burgundy Cardigan Sweater — looks great with jeans.

    • Theboxqueen

      Thanks Marilyn, I absolutely love the cardigan. Have a great Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • I love the Cocoon Cardigan! It looks so cozy and the color is perfect for winter.

    • Theboxqueen

      It is super cozy over a long sleeve Danielle, and I like that it’ll be more lightweight with a short sleeve in spring. Have a wonderful Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Love the burgundy cardigan. I’ve been obsessed with that color this season, too, and have a burgundy bag (from my September fix) that I adore and carry every day.

    For my next fix I requested a great tunic – I can’t seem to find one I like on my own!

    • Theboxqueen

      Great to hear from you Lauren! Isn’t burgundy such a pretty color. I can’t get enough myself. Now I am curious about your Stitch Fix burgundy bag 🙂 Hope they send you a lovely tunic. Happy Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Happi Shopr

    I am over the moon in love with the red crossbody! That is my favorite of all the items you showed. I am not a part of Stitch Fix.

    • Theboxqueen

      The red crossbody was a great piece I agree. Hope you try Stitch Fix one day, lots of fun. XOXO, Elif

  • Ashley Bree Perez

    I am subscribed to this! I would love this. They have such great items!

    • Theboxqueen

      Don’t they Ashley? I LOVE LOVE Stitch Fix. Happy Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • One of my friends works for Stitch Fix and I’ve seen some mixed reviews from bloggers. I’m glad to hear you say you enjoyed your experience and I love the garnet cardigan you kept–it’s gorgeous!

    • Theboxqueen

      I’ve started receiving Stitch Fix’s almost four years ago, and after the first couple of boxes which were trial and error with my stylist learning my taste I’ve been very happy with the service. I LOVE receiving SF every month sometimes a couple times 🙂 Have a fab Tuesday, XOXO, Elif

  • Rebecca

    The tunic is my favorite piece in this Fix! Beautiful!

    • Theboxqueen

      It was a lovely piece Rebecca. Happy Tuesday. XOXO, Elif

  • The tunic really is cute! It has nice eye catching colors without being too overwhelming. I haven’t personally gotten a stitch fix yet – but I could sure use some good cute “normal shoes”, if that makes sense! lol I have tons of sandals and boots and not much in between that I really like.

    • Theboxqueen

      I hope you try them one day it’s so much fun. I love the term “normal shoes” Now that I think of it the majority of my shoes are boots, pumps, and sandals. Don’t know which shoes are more normal anymore haha. Maybe more sensible flats? 🙂 Happy Tuesday! XOXO, Elif

  • Gladys M

    I love the cardigan layered look. My favorite piece is the rebecca minkoff bag – the color is perfect! I recently joined Stitch last year and am looking forward to my next package in the mail!

    • Theboxqueen

      Gladys I adore that bag especially in that cute pink. Happy to hear you also get SF packages. Aren’t they so fun to receive? Have a fab Wed. XOXO, Elif

  • Ashley C

    I subscribed in the past but have stopped right now. I’m looking for some printed sweaters that I can wear to work in the winter!

    • Theboxqueen

      Printed sweaters are always fun. I love them too. Thanks for saying hi. XOXO, Elif

  • alyssa Lines

    Love the cardigan & color, good pick! My fav item from my boxes is a pair of black skinny jeans….feel like buttah!

    • Theboxqueen

      Those black skinny jeans sound amazing. I love jeans that are soft and comfy. 🙂 Happy Wednesday. XOXO, Elif

  • Ake

    I normally don’t wear tunics because I need something with more shape, but that drawstring might do the trick!

    • Theboxqueen

      The drawstring made this tunic really flattering. 🙂 Happy Wed! XOXO, Elif

  • Sherry

    Love the cardigan!

    • Theboxqueen

      Thanks Sherry! XOXO, Elif

  • Laurie Klebosky

    Is that tunic long in the back? I’m always looking for something to wear with leggings that covers my rear! My favorite item is an olive vest that I fell in love with at first sight!

    • Theboxqueen

      The tunic was long all around, it would be good with leggings. I hear you completely, I also only wear leggings if I can have some coverage on the back 🙂 That olive vest sounds beautiful. XOXO, Elif

  • sarah

    Love your reviews and would love to win the gift card!

    • Theboxqueen

      Thanks so much Sarah, so happy to hear that! XOXO, Elif

  • I love all you reviews!! I subscribe to stitch fix and love it!! I love the red shoes and the burgundy sweater. Would love to have them in my next box!! For some reason when I posted the I tweeted for the giveaway it put the wrong thing in there!! So here is the correct thing!!

    • Theboxqueen

      Always happy to hear that! 🙂 I love putting the reviews together. The red shoes are super fab, totally recommend them. I am also so happy to have kept the cardigan. Happy Wed! XOXO, Elif

  • Laura M

    I’m loving that blue dress!

  • arytenoid

    I’m a stitch fix member… my fav is a burgundy cardigan as well but not the same as yours. I am in love with that blue dress and might request it myself. 😉

    • Theboxqueen

      The blue dress was cute. Hope if you request it you’ll get it 🙂 Thanks for stopping by. XOXO, Elif

  • Lana

    Love the cardigan. I’ll try to request it. Love your blog! Really enjoying your photos. Thank you so much!

    • Theboxqueen

      I am so happy to hear you like the blog and the photos Lana. <3 I completely recommend the cardigan, its so easy to wear. Have a very happy Wed! XOXO, Elif

  • kr17

    I really like the bag! Is it open inside or does it have compartments?

  • Aimee H

    I just discovered your blog and love these reviews.

  • Shannon

    a new sweater

  • Erin Violette

    Obsessed with the cardigan, great choice!

  • Cheryl Schiels

    Love that gorgeous crossbody bag. I’ve subscribed to StitchFix in the past, but only kept one item out of all the fixes. It was a cute bracelet that I’ve actually never worn.

  • elizabeth m

    I really like the 04 look on their main page from the girl from Alaska. I love that cream colored sweater with the jeans and boots. So warm and stylish looking.

  • Abigail

    I just got my first Fix last week! It wasnt a great match to my style but Im hoping with my comments and updating my pinterest board they will suit me better next time. I would have kept that cardigan too!

  • Chrissy R.

    I absolutely love the tie waist tunic that you got in this fix! I subscribed to Stitch Fix before I got pregnant and I’m planning to re-subscribe once I finish losing this baby weight as a reward to myself! Love your reviews!

  • Sandie

    The cardigan and dress i love. I will pin them so maybe i can get them.

  • tiffany dayton

    I like the cardigan. And the color. I like the casual pants or leggings better than the jeans.

  • Anne

    I love the cardigan and its color.

  • Cristie Ashe

    Awesome review! I love the cardigan!

  • Suzanne

    I would like winter coat

  • Michelle

    the tunic and bag look so cute together!

  • Katie

    Love the tunic!

  • Tammy

    What is the name of your stylist? I love your items and they are in my same price range.


text:
Over the past couple of weeks the Bullvine has published articles about having a breeding plan for your herd. (Read more: Flukes and Pukes – What Happens When You don’t Have a Plan and What’s The Plan?). Examples cited of herds with a breeding plan have included North Florida Holsteins who breeds for production and profitability (Read more:  North Florida Holsteins: Aggressive, Progressive and Profitable and The Truth About Type and Longevity) and Quality Holsteins (Read more: Quality Holsteins – Well-deserved Congratulations and Quality Cattle Look Good Every Day) and Ferme Jacobs (Read more: Ferme Jacobs: Success Is All In The Family!) both of whom breed for type. Today we wish to bring you some thoughts to consider for your breeding plan as it relates to the components in milk. For the vast majority of herds that is the major source of their revenue generation.

mount victoria tb plaque4% Fat

T. B. Macaulay, Mount Victoria Farms (Montvic), (Read more: Mount Victoria Farms: The Art and Science of Great Breeding) ninety years ago had a plan. One component of his plan was 4% butterfat. He built his herd around Johanna Rag Apple Pabst and his 4% fat daughters. The history books do not specifically identify Macaulay’s reason for wanting 4% butterfat except we know that back then Holsteins were considered to be ‘low testers’.

Roy Ormiston, breeder of the world famous Roybrook Farms, developed an excellent herd with the three pillars being high % fat, excellent conformation and high lifetime production.

The importance of fat yield has also been stressed by many leading USA breeders. Over forty years ago Dr. Gene Starkey, the very well respected Wisconsin Dairy Extension Specialist, in his speeches talked about herds where cows averaged over 900 pounds of butterfat per year with only limited reference to the milk yield number for top herds.

When Protein Ruled

Fat took a backseat to show conformation and then to % protein in the later 1970’s and into the 1980’s. The trendy thing was to use a bull the improved % protein but dropped % fat. The thinking was that consumers wanted to exclude fat from their diets but that protein was needed to make cheese. The trend meant the majority of breeders paid only limited attention to % fat and the national Holstein averages for % fat dropped.

How Milk is Sold

On a global basis the majority of milk is sold in a solid and not a liquid state (Read more: “Got Milk” is becoming “Got More” and MILK MARKETING: How “Got Milk?” BECAME “Got Lost”). Milk processors and marketers recognized this and so payment to farmers changed from volume and % fat to become based on the component yields. This is known as MCP, multiple component pricing. Today the pendulum has swung to where butterfat is back in fashion. Thus the quantity of solids a cow produces is important to her ability to generate income.

Milk is sold as a drink often has fat removed by processors. That fat is used to make other products and thus it is a source of revenue, not a cost, for the processor. .

The end result is that breeders are paid for the total fat and protein content in the milk they ship.  And in the future it is entirely possible that breeders will be paid for the specific fats (i.e. conjugated linoleic acid) and proteins (i.e. casein) they ship.

Avoid the Water

In today’s and likely tomorrow’s world having more water than necessary in milk is a cost and not a source of income. These cost factors include:

  • high peak milk yields adds stress on the cow and increased labor and health costs
  • high milk yields magnifies the challenge and cost to getting cows to conceive
  • to achieve higher milk yield adds to cow feed costs for high energy grains
  • cows and their rumens function best when a high percent of the diet is high quality but low cost forages
  • longer milking times to harvest the higher volume of milk adds labor and utility costs
  • on-farm more volume adds to cooling cost and the need for increased storage capacity
  • water removal at the farm is costly
  • extra milk volume adds to transportation cost
  • added volume increases processor cooling costs and storage capacity
  • high volumes adds to environmental costs and the disposal of water at the processing plant

If we could calculate the total for those ten items it might shock us how much money could be saved by having a higher content of fat and protein in milk. It all starts with the milk our cows produce.

Let’s Talk Genetics

At the farm level cows that produce 85 pounds at 4.0% fat and 3.4% protein are generating the same revenue and at less cost to all the partners in the supply chain than cows that produces 100 pounds at 3.4% fat and 2.9% protein. For sire selection this means selecting for fat yield, protein yield, % fat and % protein. Ideally, although not always possible, this means selecting bulls for less milk yield. Today most total merit index formulas (TPI™, LPI, NM$,…etc.) are based on fat and protein yield of a bull’s daughters without regards to the volume of milk they produce. This means that high yield bulls that drop % fat and/or % protein do not ranking near the top on these indexes. A help to breeders when selecting bulls to use.

Top Sires

The following table identifies top total merit bulls for their daughters’ genetic ability to produce fat and protein and have a high % fat and % protein. For bulls to appear in this table they had to be breed improvers for productive life or herd life.

Bulls Ranked by Fat plus Proetin Yields

Bulls Ranked by Fat plus Protein Yields
* USA – pounds / Canada – kilograms
Click on image for enlargement

Supersire tops the list for the ability to sire daughters for fat yield and total fat and protein yield  Jabir is high in all areas including NM$. For breeders wanting higher % fat and % protein should consider AltaIota, AltaRazor, Eloquent, Ahead or Overtime P.

The Bullvine Bottom Line

Much emphasis is currently being placed on cows that are functional and healthy, yet productivity can’t be ignored. Without the ability to generate high levels of revenue from milk sales, it is hard to make a profit from dairy farming. When it comes to production, don’t let low component milk water down your success.

The Dairy Breeders No BS Guide to Genomics

Not sure what all this hype about genomics is all about?

Want to learn what it is and what it means to your breeding program?

Download this free guide.


text:
Ford scraps Mexico plant, invests heavily in Michigan
Ford scraps Mexico plant, invests heavily in Michigan

Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] announced today that it will spend $700 million to turn its Flat Rock, Michigan, assembly plant into a hub for electric and self-driving vehicle assembly. Separately, the automaker says that it is canning a $1.6 billion new plant it had intended to build in Mexico...Read More»

2016 Chevrolet Aveo (Mexico)
In Latin America, why are some automakers skimping on safety?

In today’s U.S. car market, any passenger vehicle you choose meets a minimum for keeping you and your family safe. While the amount of active-safety wizardry offered in new vehicles does vary significantly, you can be assured that your vehicle will have stability control systems and anti-lock...Read More»

American flag
Someone Tell Trump: America Is The New Mexico (To Canada, Anyway)

Last month, Donald Trump ruffled feathers at Ford when he claimed that the automaker was cutting American jobs by shifting production to Mexico. Now, something similar is happening in Canada -- only this time, the cheap-labor boogeyman isn't Mexico, it's the U.S. The problem in the Great White...Read More»

San Francisco Bay cargo ship, by Flickr user Bernard Garon
U.S. Auto Exports Hit Record High

A few years ago, economists lamented the death of the U.S. manufacturing sector. They lay the blame on several factors, including the high cost of U.S. labor compared to elsewhere on the planet, stringent government regulations, an unskilled workforce, and a general trend toward sales and service...Read More»

2011 Mazda2 First Drive
Mazda To Build New Toyota Subcompact In 2015: What'll It Be?

In Japan today, Mazda and Toyota announced a new partnership that should be of keen interest to drivers. Beginning in the summer of 2015, Mazda will build a new Toyota subcompact for the North American market. The car will be manufactured at Mazda's new plant in Salamanca, Mexico -- a plant that's...Read More»

2011 Honda Fit Sport
Hondas To Be As 'American' As Detroit Cars By 2015?

A few weeks ago, we wondered whether U.S. consumers found it more important to buy a car that's "made in America" or one that's made by an American company. The post generated some interesting discussion, with several readers pointing out -- quite rightly -- that in this day and age, it's become...Read More»

2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
2011 Volkswagen Jetta: More American, More Affordable? has already previewed a Euro-spec Golf VI and gushed over its features and interior details. But don't get your hopes too high expecting that the decidedly upscale feel or top-tech powertrains will arrive to the U.S. in the most affordable version of the next-generation, 2011...Read More»

The Car Connection Daily Headlines
I agree to receive emails from the site. I can withdraw my consent at any time by unsubscribing.
Thank you! Please check your email for confirmation.


text:
NSW Initiate Plans for Cattle Grazing Trial

15 November 2012

AUSTRALIA - The NSW Government has announced plans for a scientific cattle grazing trial in national parks in the state's south-west, beginning next year.

The trial comes after the Federal Government used powers to end a similar trial conducted by the Victorian Government in the Alpine National Park earlier this year, reports ABC Rural.

NSW Environment Minister Robyn Parker says she doesn't expect any interference from the Federal Government with this grazing study as it is not taking place on sensitive, high alpine areas.

"It's on areas that were grazed when they were part of forests and continue to be grazed in the transfer into making those reserves," said Mrs Parker.

"The Federal Government intervention that has occurred in Victoria has no relevance in this case."

TheCattleSite News Desk

Our Sponsors

Seasonal Picks

Charismatic Cows and Beefcake Bulls


text:
Commentary: Kudos to city for bag ban

Kudos, congrats, and salutations to Solana Beach for being the first city in San Diego County to pass a plastic bag ban ordinance!

I look forward to other communities following suit. It’s amusing to read the propaganda, misinformation, and outright sarcasm in other papers about this wonderful grass roots success story, as if this long hard fought battle was something silly and frivolous.

If you were there, you know the room was full of educated leaders of this effort: PhDs, the CEO of Surfrider, teachers, parents, students, and common sense community activists for sure. They have battled the status quo for years, challenging their civic leaders and local vendors who have been slow to act, and all the powerful greedy lobbyists. I guess it was also a bogus idea to ban cigarette smoking in public statewide years ago.

Ya think there might be a good reason that these bag bans are happening all over the world?! This “urban tumbleweed” is causing problems everywhere. It is often suggested that we simply enforce litter laws. Locally, or out in the deep ocean Gyre? Please tell me who’s going to do that. Or, let’s just recycle. Right, ship it to China and they sell it back to us in the form of toys, dog food, and cheap clothing. What next? T-shirts made out of cigarette butts and nuclear waste? Pardon me, but this doesn’t make sense. Neither does corn-based plastic.

I spoke to a very nice guy that night, a representative from the restaurant industry who, using his common sense, decided not to speak to the Council. (All 22 speakers were in favor of the initiative.) He asked me about “cross contamination.”

Honestly, unless you’re a complete slob, this is not a concern. I’m just a crazy radical for refusing Styrofoam completely, and if the establishment won’t allow me to bring my own container for “doggy bags” or take out, I will eat elsewhere. Hint: gain market share by offering a discount when a patron brings their own container.

Most of Europe has prohibited use of disposable bags for years. I am trying to teach my favorite fishmonger at Sprouts that all I need is the butcher paper, nothing else. Merchants, we’re on your side, trying to save you money by reducing excess packaging. Hint: portions at restaurants are way too big anyway.

Have you heard about the epidemic of obesity and diabetes? If nothing else, consider that the stats on litter clean-up, run-off and storm drain clogging are costing our state multi-millions annually. Again, as I’ve been saying for years, this is all about money, and habits.

Oh dear, what about Rover’s” poopies”? For the last time, there is NO SUCH THING as reliable biodegradable plastic, from corn or any other substance. It’s called “green-washing” when the dispenser at Del Mar Beach claims to be a biodegradable “poopy” bag. I love dogs, but I question the humanity of anyone who owns a large dog without providing sufficient space for the poor animal to joyfully run & dump on their own property.

“Second use,” you say? That’s a bogus justification for a material lasting 500 years. I don’t care how many times you make use of it, wake up and smell the stink of the petrochemical industry and have your head examined. Fuel is necessary for vehicles, not grocery bags.

Please get educated. Read Captain Moore’s “Plastic Ocean” and a slew of other experts on this subject. Quoting Charlie, the world’s expert on marine plastic pollution, “We’re putting the entire planet on a plastic diet.” I challenge the science, the ethics, and the smarts of anyone still addicted to and advocating for unfettered single-usage of plastic. What on earth are you teaching your children?!

Celia Kiewit is an Encinitas resident

Log in with your credentials

Forgot your details?


text:
Follow us on Twitter Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram
Daily construction news
Weekly plant news

Construction News

Fri February 24 2017

Related Information
Related Information
Related Information
Related Information

News » Up To £20m » Spie upgrades BT’s tunnels » published 9 Sep 2016

Spie upgrades BT’s tunnels

BT has awarded Spie UK a contract for upgrade works on 23km of its tunnels under London – and Edinburgh could be next.

Spie has already completed a project to improve environmental ventilation and humidity control in the tunnels and is now installing a bespoke building management and control system for the London tunnels, due for completion in 2017. This is expected to reduce energy consumption, improve the lifecycle of plant and technical equipment and warn of flood potential.

The two assignments, worth a combined £3.3m, have seen Spie provide BT with cost planning and risk management consultancy alongside design and technical management.

Enhancements to the tunnels, which carry cabling forming the base of BT’s central communications infrastructure, are expected to save BT approximately £1.5m.

Spie began its relationship with BT in 2011 and as a result of the current tunnel works, BT has commissioned Spie to undertake a review of its tunnelling system in Edinburgh.

Download our free construction news iPhone / iPad app. Sign up to our FREE email newsletters or subscribe to our RSS feed for regular updates on the latest Construction News, Plant News, Contract News & Supplier News. The Construction Index also provides the latest Construction Tenders, Construction Market Data & Construction Law Commentary all FREE.

This article was published on 9 Sep 2016 (last updated on 9 Sep 2016).

More News Channels


text:
Scribble style repeat print on a stretch cotton poplin fabric with contrast waistband and drawcord and buttons. TCSS woven logo on front leg. Good pop in this one! Super Summery. Elastic waist with drawcord and button closure and 16 inch outseam.
    $55.00 AUD

  • TCSS Fixed Waist Boardshort

    TCSS Fixed Waist Trunk

    TCSS Elastic Boardshort

    TCSS Elastic Trunks

    View full size guide

  • Free Australia shipping on orders over $99.00

    We deliver products domestically and internationally using Australia Post.

    International shipping costs are influenced by the size and weight of the product and your location, exact shipping costs are calculated in the shopping cart and will be added to the order total before checkout.

    Domestic shipping is a flat $9 unless you spend $99, then shipping is free within Australia.

    Orders are dispatched within 2 business days and shipping times are estimated at between 1-15 business days depending on your location.

    For International deliveries we use Australia Post - Registered International Service. For an estimation of your delivery click here.

Join our newsletter to receive TCSS news and offers and to go in the monthly draw to win a $100 gift voucher to spend here!

* Winner drawn every month


text:
FBI to Release Zimmerman Report

Joe Burbank, Orlando Sentinel / AP Photo

The biggest question in the Trayvon Martin shooting—whether killer George Zimmerman was motivated by race—-could be answered by new FBI reports set to be released by the Florida state attorney Thursday. The shooting came to U.S. Department of Justice as a civil-rights case after it was alleged that Zimmerman shot the unarmed teen because of his race. The official conclusion of this investigation is not yet ready to be released, but evidence such as interviews with over 30 people—friends of Zimmermans and members of the local police department where the shooting took place, as well as interviews with Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco who arrested Zimmerman back in 2005—will be. Last week, Zimmerman was released on $1 million bond after the judges initial $150,000 bond was revoked. Martin's shooter and his wife had apparently received over that amount in public donations and did not inform the court.


text:
TheDairySite Latest News: Spain

Show results in:
13 February 2017
View news from Spain Food Safety & Animal Nutrition Course in Spain
SPAIN - Multinational Feed Additives Producer Nutriad, headquartered in Belgium, participated in the Food Safety and Animal Nutrition Course organized by Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo, which took place in February in Cartagena (Spain)....
20 December 2016
View news from Spain Nutriad Concludes 2016 Spain Maize Mycotoxin Survey
SPAIN - Multinational feed producer Nutriad, concluded its 2016 Mycotoxin Survey in Spain, which included 107 maize samples from different Spanish regions....
28 November 2016
View news from Spain Regenerative Grazing Improves Soil Health and Plant Biodiversity
SPAIN - Regenerative grazing practices improve soil quality and pasture diversity, as the Spain-based European LIFE Regen Farming project, due to end this year, has been able to show....
24 October 2016
View news from Spain Spanish Farmers Not Experiencing Milk Price Rises, Union Says
SPAIN - Global market prices for milk and dairy products are now rising, but the Union of Small Farmers and Ranchers (UPA) says the gains are not being fairly distributed along the supply chain....
26 May 2016
View news from Spain Spain Recognised as Low Risk for BSE
SPAIN - The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has officially recognised Spain as one of the countries with negligible risk for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)....
03 September 2015
View news from Spain Spanish Cry for 25 Pence Per Litre Minimum
SPAIN – Farming leaders in northern Spain have held crisis talks to whittle down a list of measures they demand from politicians to save their industry....
28 August 2015
View news from Spain What Can Save Europe’s Dairy Farmers: A Spanish Checklist
SPAIN – Current government measures to steer Spain's dairy sector towards stability are falling short of the mark, according to farming leaders demanding a minimum farmgate price....
25 August 2015
View news from Spain Cash-strapped Spanish to Receive €300 per Cow
SPAIN – As many as three thousand Spanish farms producing milk below the cost of production could benefit from thousands of euros of direct aid....
23 July 2015
View news from Spain Spain, Algeria Reinforce Cooperation on Agriculture, Fisheries
SPAIN - The Spanish and Algerian governments have signed two agreements to improve their collaboration over agriculture and fisheries....
01 July 2015
View news from Spain Processor Behaviour Forces Spanish Milk Dumping
SPAIN – A farmers’ union has warned that around 300,000 litres of milk per day could be dumped as processors turn their backs on contracts....
17 June 2015
View news from Spain North and East Spain Free of Bluetongue Serotype One
SPAIN – Spanish livestock farms in northern and eastern Spain have been officially declared free of Bluetongue, leaving an infected area to the south west....
28 May 2015
View news from Spain Spanish Farmers Responsible for Bluetongue Vaccinations
SPAIN – A regional vaccination programme to quell the spread of Bluetongue virus has placed the onus firmly on farmers to vaccinate their livestock....
20 May 2015
View news from Spain Livestock Animal Size Increased Since Roman Era
SPAIN - Livestock has grown over the centuries as production methods and landscapes have evolved, according to research from the University of the Basque Country....
27 April 2015
View news from Spain Environmental Pasture Management Yields More Grass
SPAIN - Regenerative management practices to improve soil health and plant diversity could also lead to up to 14 per cent improvements in grass yield....
05 March 2015
View news from Spain Surprise Flood Ruins 45,000 Hectares of Spanish Farmland
SPAIN – Floods in northern Spain have caused widespread destruction to crop and livestock farms totalling €50 million after continuous rain combined with an early thaw....
04 March 2015
View news from Spain Worried Farmers on "Right Line" for Quota Abolition
SPAIN – Anxious farmers have been reassured that measures are in place to guide Spain’s dairy sector into the uncharted territory of quota removal next month....
18 February 2015
View news from Spain Spanish Dairy Farmers to Hammer “Fraudulent” Retailers
SPAIN – A farm group is preparing an official complaint, to be submitted to a government agency, as part of the latest move to fight milk discounting....
27 January 2015
View news from Spain Spanish Farmer Outcry over Oil and Fertiliser 'Paradox'
SPAIN – Spanish producers are questioning more expensive fertiliser given the fact that fuel is cheaper, highlighting a 46 per cent crude oil price drop last year....
23 January 2015
View news from Spain Spain Must Change “Radically” or Face “Dairy Catastrophe”
SPAIN - Spanish Farmer groups are cajoling legislators into amending dairy market agreements to ensure 12 month contracts stipulating clearly referenced prices....
09 January 2015
View news from Spain 2015 Will Make or Break Spain’s Dairy Sector
SPAIN – This year will mark the future of Spanish dairying, says a producer organisation lobbying to level the playing field for farmers ahead of quota abolition....
30 December 2014
View news from Spain Spanish Young Farmers Protest over Milk Prices.
SPAIN - The Spanish Young Farmers Association is to launch a campaign against the low price of milk in supermarkets....
24 December 2014
View news from Spain Integration of CReSA into IRTA
SPAIN - On 16 December, the government approved the integration of the Centre for Animal Health Research (CReSA) Foundation into the Institute for Agri-Food Research and Technology (IRTA) from the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fishery, Food, and...
20 November 2014
View news from Spain Dairy Markets Will Ruin Spanish Farms
SPAIN – Any delay in activating dairy sector crisis measures will ruin many Spanish businesses in light of worsening milk supply and demand dynamics, the European Commission has been told....
19 November 2014
View news from Spain Southern Spain Bluetongue Restrictions Extended
SPAIN - The restriction zone imposed by Spanish authorities to manage the Bluetongue outbreak in southern Spain has been extended....
10 November 2014
View news from Spain Spanish Bluetongue Identified as Two Strains
SPAIN – Spain is battling two strains of Bluetongue, both notified elsewhere in Europe earlier this year. ...
04 November 2014
View news from Spain Cadiz Bluetongue Confirmed as Serotype One
SPAIN – The Spanish government has officially confirmed an outbreak of Bluetongue virus for the southern region of Cadiz as serotype one....
View news from Spain Quota Fears Prompt Spanish Farmer Advice
SPAIN – Curbing diets and turning animals to slaughter are among measures that could minimise milk quota excess, Spanish dairy farmers are being told....
31 October 2014
View news from Spain Andalusian Dairy Goats Worthy of Special Treatment
SPAIN – Andalusia’s importance to Spain’s goat industry has been demonstrated with the creation of a specialist goat centre for developing the region....
 1  2  3  4  5  6

News By Advertiser

News By Country

News By Category

News By Sub-Category

Our Sponsors

Seasonal Picks

British Field Crops 2nd edition


text:
Small Comfort – Okonomiyaki

Summer Simplicity -- Blackberry Galette
We'll Always Have Paris -- Duck with Blackberry Sauce

When people think of comfort food, they usually return to their childhood, and foods of the nursery. Macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, chicken noodle soup. The food of my childhood, while delicious, was not in the same vein. My mother was a child of California, and the 1970’s and 1980’s saw the rise of California cooking and a focus on health food. While I did have occasional macaroni and cheese, the foods I remember most vividly from early childhood are grilled steak, fresh cantaloupe, Caesar salad. Oatmeal cookies and Crystal Light lemonade on hot summer days by the swimming pool. Chocolate chip cookies made with whole wheat flour and raw sugar. Lamb steaks with red wine and garlic. These are the foods that evoke childhood for me, but I would classify them as staples more than “comfort food”.

Although I do occasionally, in times of distress, turn to foods of my California childhood, namely whole wheat toast, either buttered or spread with soft avocado and salt and pepper, as an adult, I have had to create my own idea of comfort food, and the world is a different place than it was in 1978. What’s more comforting than a steaming bowl of pho? Or a dish of perfectly puckered soup dumplings? Or some green corn tamales, dripping with melted cheese? When I want quick comfort at home, though, I turn to okonomiyaki.

I first encountered okonomiyaki on a cold day in New York. I had heard about a tiny place in the East Village that made octopus balls, and being interested in any curiosity, I sought it out. It was tucked on a side street, and miniscule – even in NYC, my closet was bigger than this place, which consisted of a counter (for ordering, there was no room to sit) and a galley style kitchen. The menu was equally tiny, consisting of the sought out octopus balls, or takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. The takoyaki were good, but it was the okonomiyaki that really caught my eye.

Referred to variously as Japanese pizza or a pancake, it’s a common street food in Osaka whose name roughly translates to “As you like it.” There are some basic ingredients that don’t vary, but additional ingredients can vary widely from seafood to cheese. The okonomiyaki I make at home is really a few fresh staples that I always have around, plus a few traditional Japanese toppings which are inexpensive and store almost indefinitely, and it comes together easily and quickly — the perfect thing for a Wednesday night dinner.

You start by making a batter from chicken (or vegetable) broth, egg, and flour (if you have dashi, it’s better than the broth, but I’m more likely to keep the broth around.) Mix in scallions, shredded cabbage, and whatever filling you like (it’s particularly good with fried pork belly, but a little bacon, some cooked shrimp, some vegetables or what’s in the fridge will also do in a pinch). Cook it in a hot pan with a little oil, and top with any combination of the following traditional Japanese toppings: Okonomi or Tonkatsu sauce (a sweet and salty sauce similar to Hoisin), dried seaweed (aonori), dried Bonito flakes (I think these are key, actually and wouldn’t skip them), and mayonnaise.

What you get is a crisp exterior, with the crunch of cabbage, and a salty sweet hit. Comfort food at its finest, even if it’s not just like mom used to make.

Small Comfort - Okonomiyaki
Serves: 2
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup flour
  • ¾ c. or more of chicken broth (the batter should be the consistency of pancake batter)
  • pinch salt
  • 1 c. shredded green cabbage
  • 6 scallions, chopped
  • 1-2 oz. precooked filling of your choice
  • 1 T vegetable oil
  • mayonnaise
  • Okonomi Sauce
  • Bonito flakes
  • seaweed
  1. Combine the flour, eggs and broth in a bowl and stir until combined.
  2. Add cabbage scallions, and filling, and stir until the vegetables and filling are thoroughly incorporated in the batter.
  3. Heat oil in an 8-10" nonstick skillet.
  4. Add cabbage mixture, and cook until browned and crisp. Turn (it may be easiest to do this by sliding the pancake onto a plate and then turning it from the plate back in the pan.
  5. Cook until other side is brown and no batter oozes out when you press.
  6. Top with any combination of the toppings, and enjoy.
All amounts are approximate -- this is, after all, as you like it.

Did you enjoy this post?

Signup now to receive weekly emails with new content.

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

  1. Okonomi_Yakity July 20, 2009
  2. Sheila July 21, 2009
  3. Laura July 23, 2009
  4. Alisa@Foodista July 23, 2009
  5. Lindley July 23, 2009
  6. Mike July 25, 2009
  7. illuminatiscott November 9, 2009
  8. Mike November 16, 2009
Real Time Web Analytics


text:
We offer a range of rewarding volunteer opportunities,
good for us — good for you, too!

Volunteer At the Foundry

We'd sure love to have your help! Please fill out the form below to help us match you appropriately with Foundry projects.
    Don't see what you want to do? Send us a note.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Be A Part of the Team

Gallery installation, special events, fundraising, communications, gallery sitting and ushering are just a few of the possibilities that can be tailored to your time and talent. Volunteering at The Foundry is a chance to broaden your network, meet great people and be part of the team.

If you are interested in volunteering, please help us find a good match for your skills and interests by completing the volunteer form. If you would like to find out more please contact Alana Sparrow. Thank you.

Event Gallery
119 Remsen Street
Cohoes New York 12047
Phone: 518-878-2612

Foundry Press
169 Mohawk Street
Cohoes New York 12047
Phone: 518-229-2172


text:
Words containing dioxoa

Found 1 words containing dioxoa. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words that contain dioxoa. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words that start with dioxoa

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words containing dithiole

Found 1 words containing dithiole. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words that contain dithiole. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words that start with dithiole

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that end in ctamblyopia

Found 1 words that end in ctamblyopia. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words that end with ctamblyopia. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing ctamblyopia

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that start with blekholmsb

Found 1 words that start with blekholmsb. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words starting with blekholmsb. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing blekholmsb

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that start with calvitie

Found 1 words that start with calvitie. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words starting with calvitie. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing calvitie

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that start with cancroidl

Found 1 words that start with cancroidl. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words starting with cancroidl. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing cancroidl

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that start with carrod

Found 1 words that start with carrod. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words starting with carrod. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing carrod

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
Words that start with castlecr

Found 1 words that start with castlecr. Browse our Scrabble Word Finder, Words With Friends cheat dictionary, and WordHub word solver to find words starting with castlecr. Or use our Unscramble word solver to find your best possible play! Related: Words containing castlecr

  • Scrabble
  • Words With Friends
  • WordHub
  • Crossword


text:
The Fresh Loaf

News & Information for Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts

Holiday Puff Paste Heath Bar and Chocolate Chip Rugelach

dabrownman's picture

Holiday Puff Paste Heath Bar and Chocolate Chip Rugelach

I suppose these really aren’t Rugelach in the strictest sense of the word but they are at least sort of shaped like them and they end up sort of looking like them.

These are much lighter the heavier sour cream and short crust ones that are terrific too, but not as good as these beauties.

I didn’t brush the rolled out puff paste with butter as usual but, besides the Heath Bar chunks and chocolate chips, Lucy did put some brown sugar and cocoa in the filling as well.

My daughter said these were the best Rugelach yet and mentioned…. Wow Dad you really know how to make puff paste!  She made my day and these treats were the fitting end to long day of baking.

Song Of The Baker's picture
Song Of The Baker

Oh man...aren't Heath bars similar to Skor bars?  My weakness....

They look so goooood bad but good.

dabrownman's picture

bar but if it is toffee crunch then you have it!  If there is a thing called death by chocolate puff paste - this is it! When the weather gets cool then puff paste and laminated dough are on the must do list!  You would like these John!

Happy Baking!

aptk's picture

Those look amazing!

dabrownman's picture

and light as feather too.  Glad you liked them

Happy baking

breadsong's picture

Hi dabrownman,
Crispy, and a delightful crunch too, from the turbinado sugar on the crust?
These look delicious!
Happy holiday baking,
:^) breadsong

dabrownman's picture

wash on them with a generous amount of turbinado sugar sprinkled on top - it was all left over from the Christmas Cherry Chocolate Chunk bake.  These things are very tasty and hopefully good for you too!  Crunchy, chocolate sugar and light as a feather - so what could be wrong?

Happy Holiday baking back at ya breadsong!

trailrunner's picture

I make rugelach every year. Buttery dough with fillings in any form has to be good !  c

dabrownman's picture

cookie my girls let me make - so Lucy goes all out on them.  i like the sour cream in the short crust ones too - and those are much easier to make:-)  I like them because all you have to do is change the filling and you have a whole new treat!

My take on your cherry chocolate bread came out great - at least on the outside.  Can't wait to have it for breakfast this morning and get a peek at the crumb and have a taste.

Happy baking trailrunner

varda's picture

I'd stop by if stopping by didn't involve air travel.   And then maybe Lucy would bite me since I would be uninvited.   It could be a real fiasco.   But worth it for the rugelach.  --Varda

dabrownman's picture

because they might be bringing her some kind of food.  She barks at them for a minute and then jumps in their laps with kisses asking 'where is my treat?'  These rugelach lasted about as long as took to write this response to you!  I think Obi Wan has done something to Lucy - she has that light my fire look in her her eyes - maybe is was Max!

Happy baking Varda!

Skibum's picture

. . . those look wonderful and I could eat the whole plate! I haven't tried my hand a laminated dough yet . . .hmmm.

dabrownman's picture

sure taste great.  I always get a better puff paste if I use shortening or lard for the dough with a little salt and sugar and leave the butter for the layers.  Another trial and error experiment will sort it out for you.  I used equal parts of flour and butter by weight too and  do 144 layers of butter.  I like apricot jam and nuts or mince meat for a filling too.  Just get them really cold in fridge before you egg and milk wash them and bake at 400 F to get them to puff.  Will take about 15 minutes or so to get that deep brown.  They puff at 375 F but they don't turn out as good for me at that temperature.

Happy baking Ski!


text:
Now You Can Buy Bridal Wear In Bulk

A bridal salon at Costo? Perfect! So now you can buy 5,000 bars of soap, 10 gallons of olive oil, 24 pairs of new socks, and your wedding gown all in one trip. Not to mention all the free samples you can munch on while you deliberate. Kirstie Kelly’s signature bridal collection will be popping up in various Los Angeles area Costcos for the budget-conscious bride. The collection of six couture gowns range in price from $699 to $1399 and come in sizes 2 to 24. Not that I have to shop for a bridal gown anytime in the imminent future, but if I did, I wouldn’t be opposed to purchasing it at Costco. How about you? Would you get your wedding dress at Costco? [CBS]


text:
Modern Sofa Beds & Sleepers

Set Descending Direction
per page

Items 1 to 75 of 78 total

Grid  List

  1. 1
  2. 2
Set Descending Direction
per page

Items 1 to 75 of 78 total

Grid  List

  1. 1
  2. 2

Modern Sofabeds Futon Sleeper Sofas & Upholstered Convertible Sofa Beds

Sofa Beds, Sofa Sleepers, Futon Couches what ever you call them be sure that all our sofa beds have no flame retardants whatsoever! From small twin chairs to king size we have everything that you need to turn a sofa into a guest bed

Click Here For More Info On Our Modern Sofa Beds
Safer Soy Options

Safer Foams With No Flame Retardants!

We always advocate the use of foams derived from soybean oils for their eco-friendly makeup. Along with the significant chance of off gassing it is worth noting that none of the foams used to make these products contains harmful chemical flame retardants! The impact that using soy-based foams over conventionally made has on the environment is tremendous. When you choose products from The Futon Shop you can trust that you are getting the safest options available for your family.

The Futon Shop offers the largest selection of fire retardant free quality Sofa Beds for you and your family. The Futon Shop is a proud member and supports The Organic Trade Commission, San Francisco Environment and Centi-Pur certified foam products. WE carefully pick our sofa beds to conform to CA. 117-2013 to be 100% fire retardant free. Our Sofa beds come in many sizes and are offered in a variety of fabrics and styles.

Learn more about Certipur-US Certified Foams.

Space saving options

Make The Most Of Any Room!

These modern sofa beds are more than just a stylish and versatile addition to any apartment, condo, or family room. They’re the perfect option for small spaces where a conventional sofa won’t fit. Whether it’s the gathering place for your family or a comfy bed for overnight guests, your hardwood futon sofa bed frame will become a pleasant surprise for any guest.

Learn how to maximize your available space.

Click Clack Modern Sofa Convertibles!

Convert To Sleeper With No Hassle!

Our convertible sofa designs are comfortable for everyday lounging and they fold out to provide a welcome resting place for overnight guests. These modern sofa beds, Futon Sleeper Sofas, & Upholstered Convertible Sofa Beds allow you to convert easily with a patented system that operates with a click-clack motion for simplicity.

Learn more about modern sofa beds.

11 California Locations

Shopping Local? Come Visit Us Today!

The Futon Shop proudly stocks all frames so your order is immediately ready for delivery and assembly! Since our humble beginning in Los Angeles we have stayed true to our mission of providing practical and affordable quality furniture solutions while pioneering our unique line of Chemical Free Sleeping Products

For those buying online, remember that we can ship to anywhere in the United States. Take a look at any one of our Store Locations!

Modern Sofa Beds & Sleepers

Minimal Price: $ 231.96 231.96

Refine Results

Shopping Options

  1. 3/4 Full (33)
  2. Cal King (1)
  3. Chair (1)
  4. Double (1)
  5. Eastern King (5)
  6. Full Double (24)
  7. Full Loveseat (1)
  8. Queen (8)
  9. Single (3)
  10. Twin (2)
  1. Black (1)
  2. Java (1)
  3. Navy (1)
  1. Beige (4)
  2. Black (15)
  3. Blue (2)
  4. Brown (16)
  5. Burgundy (1)
  6. Chocolate (7)
  7. Green (1)
  8. Grey (12)
  9. Java (2)
  10. Khaki (1)
  11. Navy (1)
  12. Orange (3)
  13. Purple (1)
  14. Red (7)
  15. Taupe (2)
  16. Teal (1)
  17. Turquoise (1)
  18. White (2)
  19. Yellow (1)

The Futon Shop a family owned company since 1976 maintains a high level of Eco-Consciousness to strive for a healthier future for our planet and our country. We work tirelessly towards bringing the best organic cotton and eco-friendly futons, sofa beds & chemical free furniture options for the health and comfort of our customers


text:
Your have 0 items in your cart.

"I Am Siamese" Cats Necklace

Little Lux

Get ready to fall in love with the coolest kids jewellery on the block!! Little Lux is the fun and colourful Children's Line from the Father and Daughter duo behind Gunner and Lux.

All the way from Atlanta Georgia the Little Lux range is handmade with love by the seven year old Riley and her dad John. It's the perfect jewellery for the Mini Fashionistas.

Length 32 inches / Can be tied shorter.

Shop the rest of our gorgeous Little Lux Range here.

Contains small parts not suitable for children under 3 years. Necklaces have small parts and could cause choking. Do not put in mouth. By purchasing you are assuming all responsibility for these pieces and the supervision of your child.

Shipping & returns

Added to cart


text:
Like what you're reading?

We make it easy to stay connected:

to our email newsletters
Download our free apps

Parking rules vs. parking realities

  • Photo

You return to your car parked in one of Cedar Rapids’ downtown parking spaces where LUKE stands sentinel, and there it is. Under one wiper blade, a bright orange envelope with your personalized citation for a “Parking Meter Violation.”

The thought of not following the letter of the law gives you night sweats. How can this be? “Parking Meter Violation?”

In front of your car, you see a little orange sign with a big white number on it, but not a familiar gray device with a red “Expired” flag.

The citation says right on it: “Parking Meter Violation.” OK, so it seems only fair that you should get a parking meter to violate, right?

You’re pretty sure you know what a parking meter is, but it never hurts to check. So, you look it up on your smartphone. There it is, right in the Cedar Rapids Code.

According to the people elected to make these decisions, a parking meter and the parking space have to be “adjacent.” This seems logical. With orange envelope in hand, you go to the pointy sign adjacent to your parking space to investigate.

Those empowered to govern have written that a meter has to have “a receptacle or chamber for receiving and storing coins of the United States money.” Nope, not there.

Is there “a slot or place in which said coins may be deposited?” Nope, likewise not there.

Well, it must have “a timing mechanism to indicate the passage of the interval of time which shall have lapsed.” Nope, not so much.

How about “brief instructions as to its operations?” This isn’t ET. C’mon, this is reality, Greg.

You needn’t bother looking on your smartphone to verify the $10 fine on your ticket. The only Park Cedar Rapids website references you will find to “fines” are about Park Cedar Rapids forgiving parking tickets if violators made donations to charities.

You will be able to find the fine amount, published in the city ordinance, where Iowa law says the “fine shall be established,” but it says $7.50, not $10. Go figure.

You look at the orange envelope in your hand ... you look at the LUKE sign ... the City Code on your smartphone ... the LUKE sign. The Emperor says this is no parking meter, yet you come to understand “The Force is strong with this one!”

• Bob Teig is a retired federal prosecutor and adherent of the words of Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis: “Our government is the potent, the omnipresent teacher … Crime is contagious. If the government becomes a lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for the law: it invites every man to become a law unto himself ...”

Give us feedback

Have you found an error or omission in our reporting? Tell us here.
Do you have a story idea we should look into? Tell us here.


text:
Go to the Globe and Mail homepage

Jump to main navigationJump to main content

A large drawing of Pope Francis depicting him as a superhero on a wall near the Vatican January 29, 2014. (ALESSANDRO BIANCHI/REUTERS)
A large drawing of Pope Francis depicting him as a superhero on a wall near the Vatican January 29, 2014. (ALESSANDRO BIANCHI/REUTERS)

Pope Francis is ‘making me think about my life’ Add to ...

This church wasn’t built for surprises.

Catholicism under John Paul II and Benedict XVI was designed in a spirit of certainty, with a top-down management style that treasured obedience and orthodoxy as the best expressions of a religion grounded in truths passed directly from God.

And then came Francis – a.k.a. Superpope, as depicted in a Roman street-art tribute that became the hit of the Vatican’s suddenly trendy Twitter feed.

All bets are off in a faith that until a year ago thought it knew exactly where it was heading – while glossing over glaring problems such as sex abuse, financial scandal, institutional in-fighting and alienation among the rank and file. A hierarchy that once shrugged off the challenges of modernity by imposing tighter rules and regulations is being led by a pop-culture superhero who refuses the role of judge. An organization that once presented its leader as the embodiment of sanctified supremacy now defers to the first pope to emerge from the fiercely independent, eternally questioning Jesuit order – a man of the streets who says he’s a sinner, who revels in the messiness of humanity like a rocker being tossed through a mosh pit. No wonder he made the cover of Rolling Stone.

But is his promise of change for real, or will his strong talk be diluted into tepid deeds, as skeptics already fear?

The pioneering Francis is completely at ease in a crowd, agreeing to pose for people’s selfies like they’re the ones doing him a favour, comfortable in the mortal skin that has cast off Rome’s extravagance in favour of simple white garments – a pope who spreads happiness just by freeing himself from the burdens and trappings of an office that for decades sucked the fun out of faith. He’s the servant of God at ground level: When asked about his stance on homosexuals, as good a test as any of the traditional Catholic need to deny and denounce the fluctuations of modernity, he famously answered, “Who am I to judge?”

In a church that has resolutely turned away from the nagging imperfections of the world, this makes him a revolutionary.

“It just feels like he’s brought a sense of urgency,” says 25-year-old Karen Keays as she nurses her young son Simon in a back pew of St. Patrick’s church in downtown Toronto. “This is the first time I’ve felt excited about the future of the church, and the main reason is because we have a pope who doesn’t separate himself from everyone else.”

That excitement extends well beyond the 1.2 billion Catholics in the world to include anyone looking for a more joyful message of hope and possibility than our glum, judgmental politicians are normally inclined to offer. In an Angus Reid poll this week, 67 per cent of Canadian respondents said they feel Francis is having a positive impact on his church.

In a belt-tightening world where debt reduction passes for moral leadership, where materialism has become an honourable life goal, Francis is a style icon for the disenchanted. He appeals to all those who reject the secular world’s prosperity gospel, who want to soothe the hurt and marginalized, who ache to reconcile their highest values with the troubled world they live in. And somehow, following the Pope’s new model, they also want to share the kind of pleasure that Francis clearly exudes in the midst of so much earthly pain.

It’s a fuzzy feeling of the kind often generated by modern paragons of self-improvement that doesn’t instantly translate into good works or even increased church attendance. And it has already come under criticism from tough-minded doubters.

Free-market economists say the Pope is the last person to give advice on solving poverty (Francis, hardly a promoter of trade and investment, attacks income inequality while asking us to see the poor not as a problem but as an inspiration). Traditional Catholics worry that he wants to turn the church into just another NGO, thus depleting the ancient faith of the sacred identity and spiritual purity they cherish.

The unexpected popularity of the 77-year-old pontiff, combined with his relentless message of personal change, has created a novel challenge for the Catholic leadership class: They’ve spent a good part of the past year trying to figure out how to reconcile their values with his style, and harness the power of the so-called Francis effect.

Report Typo/Error
Single page

Follow us on Twitter: @globeandmail

Next story

Most popular videos »

More from The Globe and Mail

Most popular


text:
When I was a kid, I used to obsessively quote Jim Carrey movies. More specifically, The Mask was the one I found most entertaining; I’d run around yelling, “Somebody stop me!” and pretend I was in that ridiculous “Chick Chicky Boom” scene. Guess what I did not grow up to do? Aspire to kill and eat people! But that’s because I’m not NYC’s  infamous “cannibal cop” Gilberto Valle.

According to Valle, his arousal with “imagining women being abducted and bound by others” began when he saw Cameron Diaz in The Mask (1994). In a scene of the film, Diaz’s character is tied to a tree whilst wearing a dress; apparently, this is enough to jumpstart a potential serial killer’s craziness.

The cannibal inspiration in question.

Valle went on to watch bondage fetish videos on the Internet, leading some people to question whether or not these types of scenes caused him to gain his cannibalistic, violent urges. The answer? No. Hell no.

Don’t get me wrong: I think cannibalism fetishes are creepy and bizarre and make me uncomfortable to think about, to say the least. But the vast majority of people who watch bondage and other fetish videos on the Internet are not remotely interested in intentionally, deliberately harming anybody. The BDSM community is very serious about its members respecting consent, and consent is not really a thing that people such as Valle are concerned with. And The Mask surely is not to blame either — seriously, I watched that movie like 3 times a day as a kid and all I got was an infinite crush on Jim Carrey — but the length and detail at which the matter is described is a little unsettling:

In the flick, Diaz — later nomimated for a Golden Globe for her starring role in “There’s Something About Mary” — gets trailed by two goons and chased into an alley where she’s confronted by villain Dorian Tyrell, played by Peter Green.

Clad in a revealing long black dress, Diaz, playing love interest Tina Carlyle, gets roughly pushed against a wall by Tyrell before being forced into his limo and taken to a casino for the film’s climactic scene.

There, she’s tied to a coconut tree and a ticking time bomb is placed at her feet. Her arms are strung up over her head and her legs are wrapped to the tree with duct tape, before she’s rescued by Carrey’s character, Stanley Ipkiss, a k a “The Mask.”

Not sure how relevant it is that she was nominated for There’s Something About Mary, but all right. What bothers me is how specific they are about exactly what she’s wearing and what happened in an almost sexual or fetishized way. It seems as though they’re actually buying into the idea that her character’s actions somehow led to Valle’s desire to hurt women. Maybe I’m reading too far into it, but I’m pretty sure just, “Diaz’s character was bound and abducted” could’ve done the trick rather than go into such creepy detail.

Anyway, let’s just get something straight: bondage and movies involving any form of bondage don’t cause disturbing thoughts of cannibalism. That would be a totally rational argument if, and only if, you were completely delusional. Movies don’t eat people. People eat people. That is all.

Photos: New Line Cinema