Are you shopping for a TAG Heuer Monaco? I was in the same boat 4 months ago until wife greeted me with a beautiful surprise on my birthday! As a passionate watch collector, I was completely in shock. Of all the watchmakers out there making automotive-inspired timepieces, TAG Heuer is arguably the leader. Make no mistake, they have been endorsed by some of racing’s biggest names and continues to produce some of the most lust-worthy yet attainable driver’s watches.

By the time you are done reading this review, you will have a better understanding of what to expect with your TAG Heuer Monaco.

I consider myself very knowledgeable and tasteful when it comes to collecting fine watches. Owning a TAG Heuer has always been on my agenda but for whatever reason I always thought they are catered towards the farthest reaches of luxury. Words like “sexiness” and “ruggedness” come to mind when describing the Monaco. It’s killer good looks and impeccable craftsmanship will certainly turn a few heads. It does not have the characteristics of a flashy, over-the-top luxury watch. Much more sophisticated then that and this what I love about TAG. They have mastered innovation and time.

Motor-Racing’s Coolest Casual Sports watch: The engineers and designers pulled all the stops with the TAG Heuer Monaco. Some of my favorite racing inspired features includes:

• Polished, nickel-plated hour and minute hands.

• A scratch resistant sapphire crystal

• Fine crafted steel case

• Precision dial with applied hour-markers

Passion For Advanced Design and Technology: Don’t let its looks fool you – the Monaco is built like a tank. This aint’ no hunk of plastic! The Monaco is an expertly designed watch engineered for phenomenal endurance and reliability. This is the watch that was built for the rugged lifestyle or as they would say, the “adventurous” guy. Talk about built to last. I’ve worn mine skiing, scuba diving, and through the Mohave desert without a hitch. The great thing about TAG is that, although they are expensive, they are build quality and reliability is second to none. I don’t see my watch being in the shop for anything – unless it’s a periodic battery watch.

Reactions to my TAG Heuer Monaco … I got to say, the TAG Heuer Monaco definitely gets the attention of women. I received several compliments on the green from my associates, and even had a few attractive young ladies approach me expressing how “sexy” it was. The Monaco is a perfect fit for the designed dream car lover and sports watch connoisseur.

Lives Up To The Reputation: I’ve been very happy with my Monaco. When you wear it, you instantly feel more confident and successful. Everything about the look and feel of this engineering marvel brings a smile to my face. The Monaco has been endorsed by some of the biggest names in racing, which brings instant recognition from other watch collectors. Their unwavering commitment to design and technology has made me feel a TAG fan for life. If you’re shopping for a TAG Heuer and want something with stylishly good looks and reliability, I highly recommend the Monaco.

If you lust for a TAG Heuer Monaco then make sure to check out TAG Heuer Monaco Review for complete details on this prestigious sports watch. You’ll discover where to get a 100% genuine brand new Monaco with original serial numbers, instruction manuals, and packaging.

Mark Pommett is a self-confessed watch collector and Tag Heuer addict who owns the site: TAG Heuer Monaco Watch

This WordPress is defunct!

The website is up.
http://xbeforea.co.uk/

My HTML is infalliable. It’s not completely done, but you don’t need to come here for updates anymore! Go to the site! Every day! Anything important that was here will be put on there, eventually, old posts (the good ones, anyway) will go in an archive section when I can be bothered to make it.

So, yeah. That’s it. Goodbye, free things. Hello, spending money!

I’m hoping that any fans I may have had here will be happy to follow me to the new site. It does have a blog, so if you were only interested in my nonsense ramblings, then they’re not going away, don’t worry.

Thank you for your support over the.. months (?), and I look forward to seeing you as IP addresses and numbers eating up my bandwidth.

Love you guys.

Everyone heard about all the super benefits that few of the best rated acai berry products can offer you. Everyone has watched it on radio shows . With regret, oodles of distributors only worry when it comes to profit and they promote every offer just to rake in money on the sales scheme. Well your digesting this is more than likely due to the fact you have been told about the coconut oil pills for weight loss that is being said all over the internet.

Keep in mind, before we go any further, give me the chance to discuss a few things: You dont need to purchase this offer. It is pretty much no way for a person to get in touch with customer support at this place of business. I read several studies of buyers that was given wrong numbers to cancel there order when they were attempting to try to cancel with the owners for acai berry weight loss truth.

Quite a few of the highly recommended acai berry whole foods are based on a tactic on which they will toss you a no cost workout testimonial. They just ask to purchase shipping and handling. If you do not feel that the product help, then you write the owner and ask to stop the trial.

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[Submitted by Mike Berneathy]

Every so often I’ve updated the list of films that I have already seen with brief reviews.  Call it the complete-ist in me, but when I’m done with reviewing each of the films in the book, I’d like to have reviewed every single film in the book.

Anyhow, here’s another batch for you to read.

Enjoy!

Shichinin No Samurai AKA Seven Samurai (1954)

The Seven Samurai is the first movie that I had the pleasure of seeing from the master director Akira Kurosawa, and it is also one of his most praised works. Without a wasted frame, the story takes place over the course of almost 3 hours. Kurosawa, as he does in each of his movies, explores more than just the action and injustice featured in the plot. He is a humanist first and foremost, training his lens on the interpersonal relationships of the characters, tracking growth across this epic. As good as this film is, I would have to say that Kurosawa has numerous films that are even better, check out Stray Dog, Rashomon, Yojimbo, Sanjuro, and my personal favorite High and Low.

The Ladykillers (1955)

Existing as a special combination of dark humor, and slapstick farce, The Ladykillers is exceptionally funny and unsettling. Alec Guinness stars as the leader of a group of criminals staying at the home of a hardy, vivacious older lady under the guise of being musicians. The plan is simple, rob a bank, and utilizing the trusting nature of the kindly old lady, and the remoteness of her home to their advantage, get away with it. Easily my favorite of Alec Guinness’ films (thanks in part to the Star Wars prequels that is), The Ladykillers features a solid cast of great actors, including a very young Peter Sellers.

Bob Le Flambeur AKA Bob the Gambler (1955)

My introduction to the fantastic Jean-Pierre Melville, I was captivated immediately by the cool as ice gangster come gambler Bob. This film is filled with signature Melville-isms. Glorious post war street scenes in Paris. Trench-coats. Honor among thieves. And who could forget the caper. To talk too much about this film is to give too much away, and to do that is to ruin it for those who haven’t seen it. Other classics by Melville: Le Cercle Rouge, Le Samourai, and the recently released in the U.S. Army of Shadows. All are fantastic, and deserve to be in this book! Incidentally, Bob le Flambeur was recently re-made into The Good Thief starring Nick Nolte and directed by Neil Jordan, and while I’m not generally a fan of re-makes, I really, really liked this film. Not quite as good as the original, but it was one of my favorite films of 2002.

Kiss Me Deadly (1955)

The ultimate in hardboiled private eye crime stories, Kiss Me Deadly is a full on assault on decency. Kiss Me Deadly proudly presents itself as a grimy PI story, littered with bodies and intrigue. If you even have a passing interest in film noir, this should be your first stop. Violent, misogynist, brutish, and glorious, Kiss Me Deadly begs to be watched and dares you to look away. I myself, loved it!

The Ten Commandments (1956)

Apparently based on a book, The Ten Commandments is an epic in every sense of the word. Colored in bright explosive candy hues, and featuring huge sets, as well as a cast that number in the thousands, The Ten Commandments is more spectacle than great movie. Certainly not a waste of time, but not my first choice when choosing something light to throw in.

Det Sjunde Inseglet AKA The Seventh Seal (1957)

A classic, and well-loved film by Swedish auteur Ingmar Bergman, The Seventh Seal stars an extremely young Max von Sydow as a knight who faces Death at a game of chess to decide his fate. This film is filled with themes that find their way into each of Bergman’s works, ranging from courage in the face of death, religion, and humanity. The Seventh Seal still holds up to this day, with luminous black and white photography that, thanks to Criterion’s Blu-ray edition, has never looked better.

Note: Don’t be fooled by the similarly themed, but much worse, “Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey”

Kumonosu Jo AKA Throne of Blood (1957)

Kurosawa’s retelling of Macbeth set in feudal Japan. Shakespeare has never looked better as it does in the stark black and white, twisting shadows and swirling mists as seen through Kurosawa’s camera. Toshiro Mifune doesn’t disappoint in the lead role, but the real stand out is Isuzu Yamada in the as Mifune’s opportunistic, poisonous wife. The plotting and scheming starts right from the get go, all the way up till the frenzied end of the film.

Touch of Evil (1958)

One of the many trouble spots on Orson Welles’ resume due to studio interference, and financing issues, still Touch of Evil remains as possibly the best B-Movie ever made. Iconic (and sometimes hilarious) performances by Janet Leigh, Charlton Heston (as a Mexican) and Welles himself as the crooked cop willing to do almost anything to ensure justice prevails (just so long as it’s his justice). The movie is almost as famous for its long tracking shot opening as it is for any of the performances, featuring a nearly 4 minute shot done in one take which travels around cars, actors, and buildings. The film The Player, payed homage to it by mentioning it a few times during a similarly complex shot in that film.

Vertigo (1958)

Flopping on its initial release, Vertigo didn’t gain the acclaim it deserved until much later after it was released on video. Vertigo visits themes present in each of Hitchcock’s other works, including the obsession with blondes, innocence tainted with corruption, and the schlub who get in over his head. Jimmy Stewart plays the schlub, Kim Novak plays the blonde, and gloriously technicolored San Francisco plays the innocence and the corruption. Vertigo has a twisty convoluted story with elements of surrealism, an interesting watch.

Mon Oncle AKA My Uncle (1958)

My favorite of Jacques Tati’s Monsieur Hulot films, Mon Oncle was also the first of them that I had seen. Tati, playing Hulot, is a master of visual comedy, and not in the same way as the Three Stooges, or even Buster Keaton. Tati is an artist whose work is appreciated the longer you watch. The plot of the movie is not so much important to the film as it is simply a guide to get our characters into interesting situations so we can watch them get out. If you liked this film, check out other films featuring the bumbling Mr. Hulot, including Trafic, Playtime, and Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot.

Les Quatre Cents Coups AKA The 400 Blows (1959)

My personal favorite of the French new wave movement was this small-scale film, personal piece from Francois Truffaut. Featuring the director’s alter ego, Antoine Doinel, The 400 Blows is the first in a series of movies, each about a different stage of life and the challenges that go along with them. The period from childhood to young adult is covered heart-breakingly here, following Antoine through the rough waters of his home life and his interaction with the outside world. Later chapters deal with finding love, getting married, having children, and growing old, but Les Quatres Cent Coups remains the directors most personal and his best.

North by Northwest (1959)

One of Hitchcock’s best, North by Northwest features Cary Grant, suave as ever, being mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies. Just like in Hitchcock’s most famous works (of which this is one), the witty one-liners, suspense, and drama are heaped on generously. I can’t help but feel sad that a similarly themed, but better film featuring Cary Grant was left off this 1001 list. Charade, also featuring Audrey Hepburn, James Coburn, and Walter Matthau, is one of my favorite movies ever! Check out both Charade AND North by Northwest as a double feature! You won’t be sorry.

Some Like it Hot (1959)

Now this is an example of a classic, well-loved film, with actors that I really love (Jack Lemmon I’m looking at you), a premise that is more than suitable, yet the finished product never really caught me. It’s sort of like Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief. I never really saw what all the hype was about. That being said, I didn’t hate it either. It never made fun of me when I had braces, or turned me down for a date, my affections and this film have just always been mutually exclusive. Perhaps it deserves another watch…then again maybe I should just watch The Last Boyscout again.

A Bout De Souffle AKA Breathless (1959)

Jean-Luc Godard is nothing if not a sacred cow of French cinema, and while I have loved some of his other films (Le Mepris, Bande A Part, and Masculin Femenine), Breathless or A Bout De Souffle never really did it for me. I can still rationalize why it was so revolutionary (use of jump cuts, editing, non-actors, and subscription to the aesthetic of the French new wave style), and see it’s importance, but I prefer other examples of New Wave cinema. If you are interested in seeing a Godard film, try Masculin Feminine, it is just as revolutionary and a bit more accessible.

Psycho (1960)

A prime example of Hitchcock in his prime. Psycho was so good, and so affecting that some of its actors were type cast just on the strength of this one film (Anthony Perkins, and Janet Leigh), so much so that without a little research it’s hard to think of what other films either of them has been in. Psycho may not be as visually shocking and gory as horror films of today, but it still manages to hold up over time and be just as unsettling as it was back in its day. Hitchcock has always excelled at making the comfortable un-comfortable (motels, birds, tea, dreams, the list goes on…), and the subtle touches in this film work perfectly. Consider for a moment that Perkin’s Bates is an amateur taxidermist of birds, and then that Janet Leigh’s name is Marion Crane a type of bird, or the fact before the crime Marion is wearing a white bra and a white purse, while after it she is wearing a black bra and purse. His attention to detail, and knack for foreshadowing is demonstrated in full force in Psycho and remains one of his best films. Despite all the uproar over the Gus Van Sant remake, I thought it actually did some justice to the original film and if nothing else brought it a little more deserved attention.

Note: This film also has the distinction of being the first American film to ever show a toilet flushing on-screen.

Peeping Tom (1960)

Released the same year as Psycho, and dealing with similar subject matter, Peeping Tom wasn’t received with the same acclaim and attention that the former was. On the contrary, Peeping Tom was seen as subversive, perverted, and generally too shocking. The story revolves more around the killer than the victim in this one, whereas Psycho is presented more from the victim’s point of view. Either way, Peeping Tom is a fine film, one worth watching, however it is so similar to Psycho that I’m not sure it needs to be on the list of 1001 films.

The Apartment (1960)

As far as light-hearted, touching movies about someone recovering from a bout of depression, this one is my favorite. Billy Wilder directs Shirley MacLaine and Jack Lemmon in a sweet touching comedy without losing any of his trademark cynicism or the pointedness of his dialogue. The Apartment is another chance for me to champion the somewhat maligned talents of Mr. Fred MacMurray as Lemmon’s boss. MacMurray plays a fantastic creep who really defines the term “heel”.

Spartacus (1960)

Containing almost none of the trademark elements that make up a Stanley Kubrick movie as we know it (Kubrick apparently dis-owned the film before it’s release), Spartacus remains an interesting movie that isn’t great. It is, however, another example of a film that enabled an up and coming filmmaker to gain his voice, and define himself later on in his career. If only for that reason, Spartacus is a great film, but luckily for the studio, it has some other things going for it. Kirk Douglas plays the title role of Spartacus, and despite all the lavish set production, and concentration on spectacle, brings some heart to the slave who defied Rome.

Jules Et Jim AKA Jules and Jim (1962)

One of director, Francois Truffaut’s most well thought of films, Jules and Jim may be the Lost In Translation, or Juno of its time. Viewed from a certain angle, the plot is a completely moving and emotional story that you believe, so much so, that you can see yourself and those around you in the roles that these characters embody. Viewed from another perspective, it can seem a little precious or purposefully manipulative. Depending on what is happening in your life (I’m mostly thinking about whether or not you are in a relationship, and if you are happy), this movie can preach the glory of love and the pain of rejection. On the flipside, if you have shaken free the angsty, teenager-esque feelings everyone has had in their youth, you may feel like you’re being talked down to.

Cleo De 5 A 7 AKA Cleo from 5 to 7

Taking place, as the title suggests, from 5 to 7, we get a slice of the life of Cleo played out before us. Sometimes we, along with Cleo herself, are a voyeurs into the lives of people around her, and other times we are focused on her as she roams around Paris. By and large Cleo lives a carefree, spoiled life, yet we still sympathize with her when times are hard, and cheer for her when they are good. This is a small film in a lot of ways, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t impacting and beautiful.

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

I have to admit.  I didn’t like Lawrence of Arabia that much.  Perhaps I was too young to appreciate the aesthetic beauty of Lean’s desert panorama camerawork, or just maybe it was the epic length that decided it for me.  One way or another, I didn’t appreciate it as much as everyone else seems to think I should. 

The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

Overly reliant on gimmicks and quick editing techniques, The Manchurian Candidate doesn’t flesh out the story nearly…wait, no that was the terrible re-make that came out in 2004.  The original 1962 version, is just as taught, and well executed today as it was at its release.  While the story between the two versions remained virtually the same, the consistent building of tension and anxiety, combined with the pitch perfect acting of Lawrence Harvey, Frank Sinatra (yes…Frank Sinatra), and the devilish turn of Angela Lansbury as the Queen of Hearts, makes for a fantastic film.

Lolita (1962)

It took me forever to finally see Lolita.  I have known the basic story (older man, younger girl) but had just never gotten around to seeing it.  And while I’ve been told that the book is much better, I thought the film was pretty good.  Not great, mind you, but definitely solid.  The shocking and controversial nature of the relationship was toned down a bit for the screen, and maybe as a result doesn’t seem all that shocking in today’s day and age.  Memorable turns by Peter Sellers, and Shelley Winters, not to mention it’s an early film of Stanley Kubrick.

The Birds (1963)

Despite being one of Hitchcock’s most popular, I actually think that The Birds is one of his most over-rated.  I think I owe it to myself to give this one another look someday, but right now I feel that it was too heavily based on the gimmick that had to rely on special effects.  Though it is not necessarily the fault of the movie, but the special effects seemed particularly dated and old fashioned.  Worth a watch, but not my favorite by a long shot.

8 1/2 (1963)

Federico Fellini is, by most accounts, a master of cinema.  One, that I have always had a little trouble getting fired up over.  It’s not that I don’t like his films once I’ve seen them, the problem comes in when it comes to motivating myself to see them.  I couldn’t tell you why, but his films consistently get pushed off when they come up on my Netflix Queue or when I see the one or two I have on my shelf.  I shouldn’t feel this way, considering I really loved the moving poetry, and soul baring passion in 8 1/2, yet it still happens.  One very definite reason to watch this film is the man-crushable Marcello Mastroianni, swaggering through as the alter-ego of Fellini himself.  Dealing with all the reservations with women, making movies, childhood, and the future that the director very famously dealt with himself, Mastroianni embodies a certain cool, yet believable character that begs to be watched.  Combined with imagery that leaves the audience wanting more, 8 1/2 is a fantastic film.

Well, that’s it for this time.  Thanks for reading!

Its very nice.

You may have been wondering where I’ve been all this time. I sure have. Well, the main reason is because I’m lazy, as you already know, but the secondary reason is that I’ve been working on a website, which is currently live and in an unfinished state, because I have had lacking contact with the person that helps me with HTML.

I am trying to learn myself, but my limited skill (this is why I have a WordPress account.. well, several) hinders me in my endevours. I may completely redesign the site so I don’t have to use CSS so much and I might be able to understand and keep it updated.

Anyway.. if you would like to check out what I have up there so far (which is very subject to change), then please head on down to X Before A, and your every wish will be satisfied.

…

Well, perhaps not every wish.

Do you experience this problem with your Vera Bradley bags? They need cleaned long before they wear out, picking up dirt and stains from everyday use. If there was one downside to quality, I guess that would be it. However, fortunately, there may be an easy fix. Did you know that some styles are machine washable?

Take a look inside your handbag. If you can locate the tag, there may be simple washing instructions. For example, mine states the following: “100% cotton. Machine wash cool gentle cycle. Do not bleach. Line dry.”

These are fairly standard instructions for handbags made from cotton fabric. However, some products from the Vera Bradley collection are not machine washable, including purses made from silk and microfiber. Spot cleaning is the recommended method for cleaning bags made from these types of materials.

If you determine that your bag is made from cotton and decide to machine wash it, there are a few things that you should consider before you throw it in your machine:

1. What detergent are you using?

First, take a look at the detergent. If you are using the one that you normally use to wash your household laundry, you should not have a problem. If you are tempted to use a special detergent, perhaps the one that you use to wash your delicates, take a closer look at the label. Some detergents, such as Woolite for Delicates, are formulated to work with certain types of fabric, and are not suitable for washing cottons.

2. Does your purse have a baseboard?

Many Vera Bradley bags have a baseboard at the bottom. Even though the baseboard may be covered in the same material as your purse, the inner material which helps it keep its shape is not. Make sure you remove the baseboard prior to putting the bag in the washing machine. If necessary, you can spot clean the baseboard to keep it looking new.

3. Not all products made with cotton fabric are machine washable.

Many of the Vera Bradley accessories, such as wallets made from cotton fabric, may have directions to spot clean only. This is because there are other materials also used to manufacturer them. Wallets, for example, may have inserts sewn into their lining to help them hold their shape, and the lining itself may be made from a fabric other than the cotton used on the exterior. In this situation, spot cleaning is the recommended method for getting rid of stains and other spots.

4. Adhere to the drying instructions.

To avoid fading and shrinking, line drying is the recommended method for drying Vera Bradley bags. If your purse feels stiff after line drying, you may want to fluff it by placing it in the dryer on a cool or air dry setting for a just few minutes.

Following these few simple points, you should be able to keep your favorite handbags looking like new with the help of your washing machine.

Burnley’s Cameroonian defender Andre Bikey will delay his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations to help his club over Christmas…. From BBC News. Full story

This site may contain information about: english football teams. The blog is also related to: live soccer results.

Are you shopping for a TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500? I was doing the same thing 4 months ago until wife surprised me with one on my birthday! As an enthusiastic watch collector, I was in a total state of disbelief. Of all the watchmakers out there making automotive-inspired timepieces, TAG Heuer is arguably the leader. They have been endorsed by some of racing’s biggest names and continues to produce, what many consider, some of the most lust-worthy yet attainable driver’s watches.

I consider myself to have good taste in fine luxury watches. I’ve always wanted to own a TAG but for whatever reason I always thought they are geared towards the farthest reaches of luxury. If one were to describe this avant-garde timepiece, words like “sporty” and “sophisticated” come to mind. It certainly will turn a few heads with its superb craftsmanship and rugged sexiness but not in an over-the-top way. It’s not some shallow looking “bling” watch. Much more sophisticated then that and this what I love about TAG. They have mastered innovation and time.

Motor-Racing’s Coolest Casual Sports watch: The engineers and designers really went all out on the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500. Some of my favorite racing inspired features include:

• Quartz movement for precision timing

• A scratch resistant sapphire crystal

• Fine crafted steel case

• Precision dial with luminescent hour markers and hands

Passion For Advanced Design and Technology: First thing I noticed when I put it on my wrist is this baby is heavy. This aint’ no cheap piece of plastic! The TAG Indy 500 is a very durable and reliable watch that was built for the rugged lifestyle or as they would say, the “adventurous” guy. So far, I’ve worn mine hiking, skiing, and swimming without a hitch.The great thing about TAG is that, although they are expensive, they really do put 100% into the build and craftsmanship of their watches. I do not see my watch being in the shop for anything – unless it’s a periodic battery watch.

Reactions to my TAG Heur Formula 1 Indy 500 … I got to say, the TAG Heuer Indy 500 is a real head turner. I received several compliments on the golf course from my friends, and even had a few attractive women approach me expressing how nice it was. This watch is a tastefully designed dream car lovers and sports watch connoisseur.

Lives Up To The Reputation: I’ve been very happy with my TAG Indy 500. When you wear it, it really projects an aura of confidence and success. Everything about the look and feel of this engineering marvel puts a smile on my face. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500 has been endorsed some of motor-racing’s biggest names.Their unrelenting commitment to design, amd technology has made me feel like a proud TAG ambassador. If your shopping for a TAG Heuer, I highly recommend the Formula 1 Indy 500.

A hearing is under way into the conduct of a Plymouth head teacher and her behaviour towards her deputy…. From BBC News. Full story

This site may contain information about: scholarships. The blog is also related to: teacher.

The Elephant Man – 1980

Director – David Lynch

Starring – John Hurt, Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft

Slow, cruel, and beautifully filmed.  These are the main adjectives I would use to describe David Lynch’s, The Elephant Man.  Set during the Victorian era in London, The Elephant Man tells the real life story of John Merrick, a seriously deformed man led from one freak show to another.  Anthony Hopkins stars as Frederick Treves, a doctor who takes it upon himself to rescue Mr. Merrick from the actual freakshow that he is performing in, puts him up in his hospital, and attempts to teach him civilized behavior.  Treves parades Merrick around, using his notoriety to advance his own reputation, all the while claiming to help him.

When word gets around that the “Elephant Man” (called this partially due to his appearance, and partially because his mother was mauled to death by an elephant) has gained a certain popularity with the upper crust, the owner of the freakshow (Bytes) comes back to collect his “treasure”.  Treves and Bytes play a game of tug-of-war with Merrick, neither considering him or his feelings in the least.  In terms of characters, Merrick himself played with a certain amount of humanity and grace by John Hurt, is the only character who really has any redeeming characteristics.  Despite his huge prosthetic make-up appliances, Hurt manages to imbue Merrick with a certain subtlety.

On the brightside, the film looked beautiful.  Shot in silky black and white, each characters shadowy nature plays itself out visually on the backdrop of dreary, foggy London.  Each of the set pieces is crawls with life, some of it unsettling and horrible, and some of it approaching dignity.  As the movie goes on, the mood, as well as the visual tone of the film grows subtly and slowly brighter.

Of the Lynch films that I’ve seen so far, I would have to say that this is smack in the middle.  It doesn’t reach the fantastic weird heights of films like Mulholland Drive, or Blue Velvet, but it doesn’t quite fall to the un-intelligable depths of Lost Highway, or Inland Empire.  If you’ve seen any of David Lynch’s other films, you will see some similarities but he clearly grew and matured since finishing this film.  Despite, or perhaps because of this, The Elephant Man was one of his more critically successful films and has since allowed him to go on and become a unique independant voice, if only for that reason, this film deserves it’s place on the list of 1001 Movies You Should See Before You Die.

Do you experience this problem with your Vera Bradley bags? They need cleaned long before they wear out, picking up dirt and stains from everyday use. If there was one downside to quality, I guess that would be it. However, fortunately, there may be an easy fix. Did you know that some styles are machine washable?

Take a look inside your handbag. If you can locate the tag, there may be simple washing instructions. For example, mine states the following: “100% cotton. Machine wash cool gentle cycle. Do not bleach. Line dry.”

These are fairly standard instructions for handbags made from cotton fabric. However, some products from the Vera Bradley collection are not machine washable, including purses made from silk and microfiber. Spot cleaning is the recommended method for cleaning bags made from these types of materials.

If you determine that your bag is made from cotton and decide to machine wash it, there are a few things that you should consider before you throw it in your machine:

1. What detergent are you using?

First, take a look at the detergent. If you are using the one that you normally use to wash your household laundry, you should not have a problem. If you are tempted to use a special detergent, perhaps the one that you use to wash your delicates, take a closer look at the label. Some detergents, such as Woolite for Delicates, are formulated to work with certain types of fabric, and are not suitable for washing cottons.

2. Does your purse have a baseboard?

Many Vera Bradley bags have a baseboard at the bottom. Even though the baseboard may be covered in the same material as your purse, the inner material which helps it keep its shape is not. Make sure you remove the baseboard prior to putting the bag in the washing machine. If necessary, you can spot clean the baseboard to keep it looking new.

3. Not all products made with cotton fabric are machine washable.

Many of the Vera Bradley accessories, such as wallets made from cotton fabric, may have directions to spot clean only. This is because there are other materials also used to manufacturer them. Wallets, for example, may have inserts sewn into their lining to help them hold their shape, and the lining itself may be made from a fabric other than the cotton used on the exterior. In this situation, spot cleaning is the recommended method for getting rid of stains and other spots.

4. Adhere to the drying instructions.

To avoid fading and shrinking, line drying is the recommended method for drying Vera Bradley bags. If your purse feels stiff after line drying, you may want to fluff it by placing it in the dryer on a cool or air dry setting for a just few minutes.

Following these few simple points, you should be able to keep your favorite handbags looking like new with the help of your washing machine.

Do you experience this problem with your Vera Bradley bags? They need cleaned long before they wear out, picking up dirt and stains from everyday use. If there was one downside to quality, I guess that would be it. However, fortunately, there may be an easy fix. Did you know that some styles are machine washable?

Take a look inside your handbag. If you can locate the tag, there may be simple washing instructions. For example, mine states the following: “100% cotton. Machine wash cool gentle cycle. Do not bleach. Line dry.”

These are fairly standard instructions for handbags made from cotton fabric. However, some products from the Vera Bradley collection are not machine washable, including purses made from silk and microfiber. Spot cleaning is the recommended method for cleaning bags made from these types of materials.

If you determine that your bag is made from cotton and decide to machine wash it, there are a few things that you should consider before you throw it in your machine:

1. What detergent are you using?

First, take a look at the detergent. If you are using the one that you normally use to wash your household laundry, you should not have a problem. If you are tempted to use a special detergent, perhaps the one that you use to wash your delicates, take a closer look at the label. Some detergents, such as Woolite for Delicates, are formulated to work with certain types of fabric, and are not suitable for washing cottons.

2. Does your purse have a baseboard?

Many Vera Bradley bags have a baseboard at the bottom. Even though the baseboard may be covered in the same material as your purse, the inner material which helps it keep its shape is not. Make sure you remove the baseboard prior to putting the bag in the washing machine. If necessary, you can spot clean the baseboard to keep it looking new.

3. Not all products made with cotton fabric are machine washable.

Many of the Vera Bradley accessories, such as wallets made from cotton fabric, may have directions to spot clean only. This is because there are other materials also used to manufacturer them. Wallets, for example, may have inserts sewn into their lining to help them hold their shape, and the lining itself may be made from a fabric other than the cotton used on the exterior. In this situation, spot cleaning is the recommended method for getting rid of stains and other spots.

4. Adhere to the drying instructions.

To avoid fading and shrinking, line drying is the recommended method for drying Vera Bradley bags. If your purse feels stiff after line drying, you may want to fluff it by placing it in the dryer on a cool or air dry setting for a just few minutes.

Following these few simple points, you should be able to keep your favorite handbags looking like new with the help of your washing machine.

Scuba diving takes you to an entirely different world. To enter this world one needs to take the necessary training, without which the diver life could be in jeopardy. Like in all other adventure sport scuba diving is not free from danger. Necessary precautions need to be taken to ensure a smooth and happy diving journey. The dangers of scuba diving can be classified into two categories. The first danger lies within the ocean and second in the individual itself.

Scuba divers should keep themselves updated about the marine life around that region and the risk involved there. This will help them to avoid animals that turn aggressive on being approached. The weather forecast and the current beneath and the water conditions of on the date of the dive also need to be kept in mind. There is a possibility that the diver may get too engrossed in viewing the beauty at the bottom of the sea and swimming against the current may make it difficult for him to reach his destination.

Getting trained through certified classes of scuba diving will help the diver to encounter the dangers. Divers should make sure that all their equipments are in good condition and working properly. The scuba diver needs to show a certain level of responsibility too.

The diver needs to remember his lessons well while venturing in the sea. Taking things for granted and forgetting his lesson could go against him and is a foremost danger of scuba diving. Diving with an accomplice having more experience could reduce the danger of scuba diving.

A good presence of mind and the ability to handle a dangerous situation without panicking can get you over the dangers of scuba diving.

Avoid diving while suffering from cold, allergies and infections, as intake of some of the medications could make you lethargic and somnolent.

A common problem that scuba divers experience is ear pain is mainly caused due to pressure changes. The medical terminology for this is squeeze. Barotrauma can also be caused due to scuba diving. When parts of the body that contains air for example the lungs, the stomach, the chest, the intestines and cavity get affected deep underwater due to excessive pressure causes barotrauma. The other problems related to scuba diving are bruises, scrapes and cuts which normally occur due to shipwrecks and coral and reefs.

Diving too fast also causes serious consequences and over expansion and contraction of lungs could result in serious disabilities. So remember not to be reckless and hasty while scuba diving.

Do you experience this problem with your Vera Bradley bags? They need cleaned long before they wear out, picking up dirt and stains from everyday use. If there was one downside to quality, I guess that would be it. However, fortunately, there may be an easy fix. Did you know that some styles are machine washable?

Take a look inside your handbag. If you can locate the tag, there may be simple washing instructions. For example, mine states the following: “100% cotton. Machine wash cool gentle cycle. Do not bleach. Line dry.”

These are fairly standard instructions for handbags made from cotton fabric. However, some products from the Vera Bradley collection are not machine washable, including purses made from silk and microfiber. Spot cleaning is the recommended method for cleaning bags made from these types of materials.

If you determine that your bag is made from cotton and decide to machine wash it, there are a few things that you should consider before you throw it in your machine:

1. What detergent are you using?

First, take a look at the detergent. If you are using the one that you normally use to wash your household laundry, you should not have a problem. If you are tempted to use a special detergent, perhaps the one that you use to wash your delicates, take a closer look at the label. Some detergents, such as Woolite for Delicates, are formulated to work with certain types of fabric, and are not suitable for washing cottons.

2. Does your purse have a baseboard?

Many Vera Bradley bags have a baseboard at the bottom. Even though the baseboard may be covered in the same material as your purse, the inner material which helps it keep its shape is not. Make sure you remove the baseboard prior to putting the bag in the washing machine. If necessary, you can spot clean the baseboard to keep it looking new.

3. Not all products made with cotton fabric are machine washable.

Many of the Vera Bradley accessories, such as wallets made from cotton fabric, may have directions to spot clean only. This is because there are other materials also used to manufacturer them. Wallets, for example, may have inserts sewn into their lining to help them hold their shape, and the lining itself may be made from a fabric other than the cotton used on the exterior. In this situation, spot cleaning is the recommended method for getting rid of stains and other spots.

4. Adhere to the drying instructions.

To avoid fading and shrinking, line drying is the recommended method for drying Vera Bradley bags. If your purse feels stiff after line drying, you may want to fluff it by placing it in the dryer on a cool or air dry setting for a just few minutes.

Following these few simple points, you should be able to keep your favorite handbags looking like new with the help of your washing machine.

In 1995 I co-authored a paper [1] about “Change Proofing” – the ability of a commercial organization to manage change stimulated by largely unanticipated, hard-to-predict events and shocks. Examples up to that time included trauma due to third world debt in the 1970s, the energy industry in the 1980s, and commercial real estate and corporate buy-outs in the 1990s.

History shows that the consequences of failing to recognize and interpret harbingers of change can be devastating. It is said that the ancient Peruvian Indians were unable to “see” the sails of the invading Spanish fleet, and dismissed them as mirages. More recent historical (hysterical?) examples of myopia include US automobile manufacturers who were blinkered to Pacific-Rim competitors, and even IBM, which was long unprepared for opportunities presented by the explosive growth of personal computing.

Clearly-identified business trends, such as globalization, technology, demographics and new social orders, had often been cited up to 1995 as drivers of change. However, little attention had been given to management of change stimulated by largely unanticipated, hard-to-predict events and shocks, such as rapid oil price changes or the sudden collapse of centrally-planned economies. Few models of such change, or techniques to plan or cope with it had been presented in the literature in 1995 or since for that matter, although even in 1993 according to such an authority as Ed Schein [2]: “…the problem is not management of change but the management of surprise”.

Change Proofing was not intended as a means to resist or avoid change, but rather a process for becoming more flexible and responsive in order to cope with it. The Change Proofing paper proposed that environmental shocks and surprises could best be managed by increasing the ability of the organization itself to anticipate, recognize and respond to them – surprise surprise – before hand! The paper set out theoretical reasoning, but more importantly it detailed a straightforward practical Change Audit that would help organizations of all types and sizes frame and address critical factors for Change Proofing; form more realistic and objective views of radical environmental change; and develop better means of coping with surprise. The paper also recommended that the Change Audit should cover organizational learning processes and their impact on strategic focus, motivation and core capabilities.

So what can one say about current events? Too bad so many of today’s organizations haven’t read the paper or didn’t heed its message?! Well, it’s not too late to plan for next time – and there will be a next time – so I invite you to have a look at the paper now …

[1] Drew, S.A.W. & Smith, P., The Learning Organization: Change Proofing and Strategy, The Learning Organization, Vol. 2, No. 1, 1995

[2] Schein, E.H., How can organizations learn faster? The challenge of the green room, Sloan Management Review, Winter, 1992; pp. 85 – 92

Are you shopping for a TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500? I was doing the same thing 4 months ago until wife surprised me with one on my birthday! As an enthusiastic watch collector, I was in a total state of disbelief. Of all the watchmakers out there making automotive-inspired timepieces, TAG Heuer is arguably the leader. They have been endorsed by some of racing’s biggest names and continues to produce, what many consider, some of the most lust-worthy yet attainable driver’s watches.

I consider myself to have good taste in fine luxury watches. I’ve always wanted to own a TAG but for whatever reason I always thought they are geared towards the farthest reaches of luxury. If one were to describe this avant-garde timepiece, words like “sporty” and “sophisticated” come to mind. It certainly will turn a few heads with its superb craftsmanship and rugged sexiness but not in an over-the-top way. It’s not some shallow looking “bling” watch. Much more sophisticated then that and this what I love about TAG. They have mastered innovation and time.

Motor-Racing’s Coolest Casual Sports watch: The engineers and designers really went all out on the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500. Some of my favorite racing inspired features include:

• Quartz movement for precision timing

• A scratch resistant sapphire crystal

• Fine crafted steel case

• Precision dial with luminescent hour markers and hands

Passion For Advanced Design and Technology: First thing I noticed when I put it on my wrist is this baby is heavy. This aint’ no cheap piece of plastic! The TAG Indy 500 is a very durable and reliable watch that was built for the rugged lifestyle or as they would say, the “adventurous” guy. So far, I’ve worn mine hiking, skiing, and swimming without a hitch.The great thing about TAG is that, although they are expensive, they really do put 100% into the build and craftsmanship of their watches. I do not see my watch being in the shop for anything – unless it’s a periodic battery watch.

Reactions to my TAG Heur Formula 1 Indy 500 … I got to say, the TAG Heuer Indy 500 is a real head turner. I received several compliments on the golf course from my friends, and even had a few attractive women approach me expressing how nice it was. This watch is a tastefully designed dream car lovers and sports watch connoisseur.

Lives Up To The Reputation: I’ve been very happy with my TAG Indy 500. When you wear it, it really projects an aura of confidence and success. Everything about the look and feel of this engineering marvel puts a smile on my face. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Indy 500 has been endorsed some of motor-racing’s biggest names.Their unrelenting commitment to design, amd technology has made me feel like a proud TAG ambassador. If your shopping for a TAG Heuer, I highly recommend the Formula 1 Indy 500.

If you lust for a TAG Heuer Indy 500 then make sure to check out TAG Heuer Indy 500 Review for complete details on this prestigious sports watch. You’ll discover where to get a 100% genuine brand new Indy 500 with original serial numbers, instruction manuals, and packaging.

Mark Pommett is a self-confessed watch collector and Tag Heuer addict who owns the site:
http://www.squidoo.com/Tag-Heuer-Indy-500

So after purchasing countless fitness magazines, keeping to the prescribed 3 days a week in the gym doing 3 sets of 10 of ”X” exercises, half hours of cardio, and keeping this same routine going on for years, I still found myself a ball of flab with over 20% of body fat.  After one of my “friends” (jerk! =P) kept pinching at my side flab, I had enough…it was time for a change.

Enter CrossFit.  It started after I came across some youtube clips of the “3oo Workout”.  This was a workout that was designed as a intesnse physical test for the actors of the movie 300.  Instructed by Gym Jones owner and climbing legend, Mark Twight, these actors went through a training regiment that developed both their minds and bodies to elite human levels, i.e. Spartan warriors. 

After more research and references to CrossFit, I made my way to CrossFit’s HQ (head quarters) site www.crossfit.com.  There, I stepped upon a plethora of workout demonstrations, message boards, a WOD (whatever that was), and a FAQ page that read like some foreign dictionary.  “What the heck is this?” I thought to myself after scrolling through a pretty bland and no frills web page.  There was only one way to find out, it was time to try my first CrossFit workout.

So, after arriving at the gym like any other day in my schedule, I looked up the CrossFit website on my phone and saw that the day’s WOD (Workout of the Day) was called “Murph*” and it looked like this:

For time (as fast as you can):

400m run

100 pullups

200 pushups

300 squats

400m run

I figured, okay, I’ve been working out regularly and putting my time in on the treadmill, and there’s no weight involved in this workout, so I got this.  Also, the forum specified that I could split up the reps as much as I needed to, so what’s the big deal?.

By the time I got through the first 50 pullups I threw out the clock, I was already heading into survival mode doubting whether I would even be able to complete this workout.  As I stepped onto the treadmill for the last 400m run, I felt as though I was breathing through a straw and my legs felt like someone poured cement down my pants.  As I began to speed up the treadmill (to a much lower speed than what I had done on the first 400m run), it was like running through a pool of molasses.  When I finally finished the run, I went over to a mat and just sat there for what must have been 10 minutes, with just a complete blank stare on my face as my body and dumbfounded mind were recovering from what I had just put it through.

That was my introduction to CrossFit, my first date, and I was in love.  After a week of following the daily WODs, I was already feeling and seeing the results.  I started watching my diet a little closer (mainly so I could survive the workouts), and each day just brought more results, and each workout completed, brought a greater sense of mental fortitude. 

I’ll post stats at a later time, but basically, at the end of a 3 month period, I went from 185lbs to 153lbs while gaining energy, strength, flexibility, stamina, speed, agility, and power.  In my book, that’s a pretty good deal.

Hey, look, an update about a project currently in process instead of a retrospective!

Right now, Jason is building some fabulous custom built-ins for the master closet. This is probably phase 3 or so of work that we’ve done in there over the last five years.

A peek towards the master closet when we first bought the house.

We stripped the wallpaper and painted the closet pretty shortly after moving in. It still had a really weird layout, though. What you’re seeing in the picture (with the striped wallpaper) was actually a hallway-type thing, probably 4′ wide and the length of the closet (9′ or so). If you stepped into the hallway, there was another doorway on your left that opened into the “actual” closet (where the hanging bars and whatnot were) that was a similar size.

So when we were looking for a way to make the upstairs bathroom more usable, we realized that we could remove the wall between the two sections of closet to make one huge room. That would let us sacrifice a couple of feet to the bathroom, and still end up with a closet that was nearly 8×9.

The master closet, after the bathroom remodel and the flooring installation (showing the same corner as above, just a little closer view).

That same view, as of early November. The first carcases are built; hanging clothes (double-bar) on the leftmost side, then the center is a set of six drawers and shoe cubbies (18 of them) underneath.

We hadn’t replaced the light fixture in the closet, so it was still the terrible early 90’s fake brass and glass one that didn’t throw nearly enough light in a closet. After some debate, we decided to go with something a little more modern (given that it is a track light), as long as it still had some old-fashioned aesthetic to it. (While we were debating, I realized it was the same design as our new dining room chandelier, which pretty much sealed the deal.) Oh, and it only took Jason 25 minutes to take down the old light and hang this one – he was mad, because it “should” have only taken 15 but the mounting bracket was misleading in its orientation.