A weekday morning on a corner in Washington D.C. at 5:30am.

© 2009 D L Ennis, All rights reserved.

NOTE: Permission for the use of my images is granted for personal websites and blogs but is to include a link back to this site and proper credit given to me, D L Ennis. Link to be used…(Visual Thoughts http://dlennis.wordpress.com/)

NOTE: Commercial use, and the creation of prints, must be purchased! For more information you can contact me here.

Corner of South and McDaniel, originally uploaded by W.K..

This was taken as the title says @ the corner of South and McDaniel. You can see the building tops along South St.

With three games being played on Thanksgiving, there is definitely enough fantasy roster impact to warrant a fantasy sit or start special.  Not enough time for a full preview, but I’ll cover players on the six teams in action this Thursday.  The rest will be posted on Friday as usual.  Here’s the usual “how this column works and why you should listen to me” part of the column.  Although I can’t promise a guy at every position with such a limited slate tomorrow, although there are a few tight end matchups I like.

Why should you listen to me?  Well, first of all, always listen to yourself first.  If there’s a guy you really like, than go with your gut.  Otherwise, I’m the defending Champ of my 12 team Yahoo! League after losing in the title game the year before (my first year in the league), and after expanding to 14 team, I’m rocking first place again.  I’ve been in eight fantasy football leagues since 2006 and never finished lower than third.  I’m certainly not right all the time, but definitely more often than not.  For these recommendations I’m not really going to talk about guys like Adrian Peterson or Tom Brady, because they’re no brainers.  I’m trying to predict who will rise up from the middle or bottom of the ranks to have big weeks.  I’ll give you at least one guy at each main position (QB, WR, and RB).  No kickers here.

STARTS.  Obviously if you have a superstar at the same position, they should play, but if you’re in doubt, start these guys:

• QB Aaron Rodgers, GB – He should start every week for most everyone that has him, but definitely against the Lions.  They just let Brady Quinn throw four TDs on them, so imagine what a good QB can do. 
• QB Eli Manning, NYG – Eli looked healthy last week for the first time since he came down with plantar fasciitis earlier this year.  He threw for 384 yards and 3 TDs against Atlanta and I wouldn’t be surprised to see similar numbers this week.  Denver’s defense was great at the beginning of the year, but is giving up about 30 points per game over its last four.
• WR Mario Manningham, NYG – Like Manning, he’s healthier than he’s been in a few weeks and had a big game last week with 126 yards.  Champ Bailey will probably be lined up on Steve Smith most of the game, so Super Mario should be able to make some big plays.
• RB Ryan Grant, GB – Maybe it’s just wishful thinking because I have him on one of my fantasy teams, but I think he’ll have a big game.  The yards have been there for the most part, but the touchdowns haven’t been going his way this year, instead going to the passing game or backup backs.  The Packers will score a lot against Detroit though and I think things shake out in his favor and he gets in the end zone multiple times to go with what should be an easy 100+ yards.
• RB Brandon Jacobs, NYG – He really just hasn’t been able to get it going yet this year, having yet to break 100 yards in a game.  I don’t know that he blows the doors off or anything, but Denver’s defense is undersized and a big power back like Jacobs should be able to bowl some guys over.  Close to 80 yards and a TD shouldn’t be too much to expect, and if he was ever going to breakout this season, this is the game.
• TE Jason Witten, Dal – You’d think he was a no brainer, but Witten really hasn’t been all that good this year.  He’s only had more than 53 yards receiving twice all season and those were in week one and three.  He also only has one touchdown and is averaging less than 10 yards per catch.  I like the Oakland matchup though.  Miles Austin is starting to draw double teams and even if he can’t catch, Roy Williams stretches the field a bit.  The Raiders have a good secondary, but I think Witten can exploit some one on one situations with linebackers and have a good day in the 80 yards and a TD range.
• TE Zach Miller, Oak – He’s Oakland’s only consistent receiving threat and while his QB isn’t a superstar, he’s at least competent enough to get Miller the ball.  Caught five balls for 65 yards and a TD last week.  If Oakland is going to get anywhere through the air, it’s going to be through him.  He should be fantasy relevant again going forward.
• TE Brandon Pettigrew, Det – I probably should have added him to my pickups column on Tuesday.  He’s been getting more involved in the offense as the season has gone on and has 15 catches for 165 yards and 2 TDs his last three games.  With Calvin Johnson likely out, that means more opportunities for the rookie tight end.  A risky play, but he definitely has upside this week.
• D/ST Green Bay Packers – The packers played a good defensive game last week until a garbage fourth quarter when the game was already over.  That killed their fantasy value, but you have to look at the actual game, not just fantasy stats.  The defense is getting better acclimated to playing the 3-4 and it’s showing on the field.  Take away Stafford and Calvin Johnson from the Lions offense and what do they have?  Nothing for the Pack to be afraid of.

SITS.  Bench ‘em if you can.  It’s not gonna be their week:

• WR Calvin Johnson – Listed as questionable, but he really hasn’t shown a lot of toughness this year.  I doubt he’ll be active and if he does play at all he probably won’t be effective.
• WR Brandon Marshall, Den – Not seeing eye to eye with anyone on his team right now.  He’s Denver’s best weapon, but the Giants know that and will be focused on not letting him beat them in the passing game.  If you have a better option, go with it.
• RB Any Oakland Raiders – With McFadden back from injury, the backfield in Oakland is too crowded and they don’t seem to have it figured out themselves.  Justin Fargas is probably your best bet, but until they at least settle on a main tandem, let alone a feature back, leave them alone.
• D/ST Denver Broncos – If you’re still clinging to the Broncos D that carried your fantasy team early in the year, it’s (past) time to let it go.  They’re no more than average at best and the Giants are not a good matchup for them.

Get those rosters set before turkey time.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Time for my weekly NFL picks against the spread.  It’s coming a day early this week to get in before the slate of Thanksgiving Day games.  Went 9-6 last week, which isn’t that good if you taught yourself as being an NFL “expert”, but at least I don’t look like a complete idiot.  The Cardinals missed covering for me by half a point thanks to Matt Leinhart throwing the offense into neutral when he took over for Kurt Warner.  The Bears went the other way for me, losing by half a point too much, and the Lions also just missed covering.  I like everyone else, was totally blindsided by the Steelers loss, but not so much by the Raiders upset, which I mentioned in last week’s picks, but didn’t have the balls to actually take them.  Oh well, no guts, no glory and I didn’t have the guts to say with certainty that the Bengals would let down and succumb to the Bruce Gradkowski era in Oakland.  Lots went right though and teams performed much like I thought to both win games and by the right margin.  If you want to double check me, just scroll down to here.

We get treated to a full schedule of games for the usual Thanksgiving football feast, although I’d like to see some better matchups, there’s only one game on at a time, so I’ll watch what I’m given and like it.  The day will be a little more dampened, because I suspect both Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson will be out for the game against the Packers, so feel free to sleep in on West coast.  Sunday brings a lot of games that seem a bit odd to me.  The matchups are a mix of games that are typically good between rivals or usual contenders that just aren’t packing their usual punch (Falcons/Bucs, Dolphins/Bills, Eagles/Redskins), and odd matchups between two teams that have nothing in common, but are both good/interesting all of the sudden (Titans/Cardinals, Saints/Pats).  And of course there the epic matchup between 3-7 Seattle and 1-9 St. Louis.  We’ll see if the Hawks can make up some ground on a top 5 pick.  Without further ado, here we go:

Green Bay Packers -10.5 @ Detroit Lions – A lot of people are calling for Detroit to be axed from their permanent Thanksgiving Day scheduled game, but not me.  I like tradition and they have to get better eventually.  Maybe by 2012 we’ll have a good game.  All the good done for the Lions with last week’s great performance in getting a clutch win against the worst team in the league will not last into this game.  As I said before, Stafford and Johnson are both hurt and likely out, and without them the Lions couldn’t even beat the Browns.  If Brady Quinn can light up the Lions D for four TDs, then I can’t imagine what Aaron Rodgers will do in the three quarters he plays before the Pack brings in the second unit.  Prediction: Packers 45 – Lions 13

@ Dallas Cowboys -13.5 Oakland Raiders – Oakland is another team that got a big win last week that won’t be able to keep it going.  The upset with Gradkowski at quarterback was a nice story, but he’ll have to do a lot more to beat the Boys in big D.  The Cowboys typically play well on Turkey Day and have to really be itching to go after two straight poor offensive performances.  I expect them to come out and try to put a lot of points on the board.  Prediction: Cowboys 31 – Raiders 6

New York Giants -6.5 @ Denver Broncos – Eli Manning looked to be healthy and back in top form last week.  He and the Giants run game shouldn’t have too much problem against a smallish Broncos defense that is barely putting up a fight these days after their great start.  If the Giants can protect Manning against Elvis Dummerville like they did against the Falcons last week he should have a big day.  On the other side, the Broncos seem more involved fighting with each other than against the other team.  Denver is in a total free-fall right now and won’t be able to pull out against a quality opponent on a short week.  Prediction: Giants 28 – Broncos 10

@ Atlanta Falcons -11.5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Tampa just fired their second coordinator this year.  Not a good sign.  I can’t imagine how they are going to successfully convert back to a cover 2 in one week.  They simply don’t have the talent to defend in the NFL.  Matt Ryan actually looked to be back on track last week in the loss to New York, not throwing a pick for the first time in a while.  The Falcons are too good, too well coached, and need this one too much to let down.  They need to build up some confidence again and the Bucs should be a big help.  Prediction: Falcons 34 – Bucs 14

@ Buffalo Bills +3.5 Miami Dolphins – Most signs point to the Dolphins winning this game, but think it’ll be an upset.  The Dolphins do more with less than anyone, but eventually that catches up with you and you can’t quite do enough one game.  Miami historically struggles in Buffalo and I think it’ll happen again this week.  I doubt Ricky Williams old bones will be as productive in the cold this week as they were against Carolina.  Despite losing, Buffalo had some good things happen last week.  They committed to Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB, who is a better choice than Trent Edwards for this season.  They got some plays out of TO, and the defense was solid as usual.  If they can get anything out of the running game, they should win this game for sure.  Prediction: Bills 20 – ‘Phins 13

@ Cincinnati Bengals -13.5 Cleveland Browns – I do think the Browns have some confidence from last week and found some things that work for them getting the ball down the field with Brady Quinn.  That being said, The Bengals are too good a team to not recover after losing a game to the Raiders that they had no business losing.  Cedric Benson should be back this week and they will look to pound their in state rival into the ground.  Going for a perfect record in the division should also be a big motivating factor.  If anything, the Browns performance last week will doubly help Cincy make sure to take them seriously.  Prediction: Bengals 28 – Browns 16

Seattle Seahawks -2.5 @ St. Louis Rams – I am not confident in my Seahawks this week, which is totally understandable for me and anyone that watched us in Minnesota last week.  They just can’t lose to the Rams though, can they?  The Rams have been playing better lately.  In their last three games they beat the Lions, then lost by just five to New Orleans, and lost by eight to Arizona.  I have a bad feeling the Rams are going to win, but I just can’t imagine the Seahawks talent not getting their way.  Hasselbeck is too good and smart to let them get to him and I think Justin Forsett has a big game to cement his spot in the starting lineup.  The Rams defense is playing pretty well recently, but they don’t have the kind of pass rushers that is needed to really throw off the Seattle offense.  I think the Hawks prevail.  I keep telling myself that.  Prediction: Hawks 27 – Rams 17

Carolina Panthers +3.5 New York Jets – The Jets really miss having Kris Jenkins plugging up the middle.  When he went down was really when and why their season has gone downhill.  It will be especially apparent this week as Carolina’s duo of Williams and Stewart run all over the Jets D.  Especially DeAngelo William, who has been running great the last five or six weeks and should get the ball a lot.  If the Panthers keep it on the ground no matter what, limiting the damage Jake Delhomme can do to them, they can win this game even if they have to come from behind.  Prediction: Panthers 24 – Jets 17

Washington Redskins +9.5 @ Philadelphia Eagles – I’ve been taking the Redskins against the spread and winning the last two weeks, so let’s let it ride again.  Their defense is playing their butts off out there, a real tribute to the defensive coaches in Washington.  I figure the offense gets double digit point every once and a while, and that’s all it should take to stay within 10 of Philly.  Hopefully Philly doesn’t score too much and the game stays close, because they run the ball and control the clock.  It’s equally as likely that it’s will be because Andy Reid forgets the run, throws it 55 times with little effectiveness, mismanages the clock in the fourth quarter, and the Eagles win despite it.  Prediction: Eagles 20 – ‘Skins 14

@ Houston Texans +3.5 Indianapolis Colts – It just seems like they’re both due.  Houston has been too close too often the last couple weeks to not have won, while the Colts have been too close the last four weeks to not have lost.  I think the Texans will have too big a lead in the fourth quarter and Peyton Manning’s comeback attempt will fall short.  It’s just the kind of game that usually gets an undefeated team late in the year.  They’ve proved all they need to prove in the regular season.  They’ve stepped up and won the big games, and are too good to let down for the bad teams.  In comes a good but not great division rival that knows them well, doesn’t inspire a lot of emotion, and just wants it more.  The Colts have owned Houston for their entire existence, winning five straight and 14 of 15 overall.  Redemption this week for a Texans squad that has been on the brink of breaking through for years now.  The undefeated Colts fall.  Prediction: Texans 27 – Colts 20

Kansas City Chiefs +13.5 @ San Diego Chargers – The Chiefs are much improved from the team that got shellacked 37-7 at home in week seven.  They are free of both the mental and offensive burden that was Larry Johnson and really seem to be clicking under new coach Todd Hailey now (clicking as much as a team with that little overall talent can).  The enigmatic Chargers have been getting big wins lately and are probably due to let down a bit and have an off week.  The talent gap is too wide for the Chiefs to get a win, but they should acquit themselves well and make a game of it.  I expect them to be able to move the ball, but Cassell will take too many big sacks when they get closer to the end zone and the Chargers bring pressure.  Prediction: Chargers 28 – Chiefs (upgraded from Chefs this week) 17

@ San Francisco 49ers -3.5 Jacksonville Jaguars – The Jaguars have been playing solid defense lately, but it’s mostly with a combination of smoke and mirrors and bad offensive opponents.  The last time they traveled West, they go punched in the face in a 41 point shutout in Seattle.  Frank Gore will punch them in the mouth this week, and Alex Smith should be able to find the weaknesses in the Jag secondary.  I think this one gets away from the Jags early and just gets worse.  Prediction: ‘Niners 34 – Jags 10

@ Tennessee Titans -0.5 Arizona Cardinals – This Titans team is on a mission after their 0-6 start and I believe in them.  Vince Young isn’t putting up great numbers, but he looks much better than he used too.  I actually saw him look at more than one receiver on multiple plays last week.  Arizona is better on paper, and they’re running the ball well.  It’s the defense that will let them down on the road this week though.  I just think Tennessee finds a way at home.  Prediction: Titans 31 – Cards 24

@ Minnesota Vikings -10.5 Chicago Bears – The Bears are 4-6 and on a slippery slide downhill right now.  Cutler looks like he doesn’t have any confidence in his receivers or himself and they rest of the team feels the same way.  The Bears seem loaded with overvalued weapons on offense.  Cutler is a not that good a QB, Matt Forte is not that good a running back, Hester is not a very good receiver, and their offensive line is below average to boot.  You have to be real good and totally on your game to beat Minnesota, especially in Minnesota.  The Bears are neither.  I think the Vikings are playing the best football in the league right now.  Prediction: Vikings 34 – Bears 7

@ Baltimore Ravens -2.5 Pittsburgh Steelers – Without Troy Palomalu, the Steelers defense is just average.  The Chiefs moved the ball very effectively last week, as did teams in the weeks he was out early in the year.  Without their start safety, Pittsburgh is a .500 team.  The Ravens actually are a .500 team right now, but I think they are better than that.  They haven’t been playing great for the last half season or so, but this is the biggest game of the year for them.  A win would tie them with the hated Steelers and put them back in the driver’s seat for a wildcard berth.  I think Joe Flacco studies hard this week and doesn’t make the mistakes he has in recent weeks.  Ray Rice should be able to be as, if not more, effective than Jamaal Charles was last week, and the Ravens band will be playing victory songs into the night.  Prediction Ravens 27 – Steelers 20

New England Patriots +3.5 @ New Orleans Saints – This should be a great game.  If it were in Foxboro, I’d say Patriots for sure, but the Super Dome crowd should give the Saints an edge.  New Orleans secondary is too depleted for the Pats to not put up a lot of points, and they can put up points against good, healthy defenses.  I expect the Saints to bring their A game too though and make it a shootout.  Really hard to say who will win, but if you give me points, I’ll take New England in any game.  A close one just like against Indy, but without the controversy.  Maybe an instant classic.  Prediction: Saints 41 – Pats 38

Last week = 9-6; Record after three weeks = 24-19.

Here go this week’s recommended fantasy transactions.  Of course there could be better guys available in certain leagues, and if so, by all means take them first.  I don’t list every single guy that I probably could here, just the ones that stood out to me this week.  The percentage next to each player’s name is their ownership percentage in Yahoo! leagues at time of posting.

PICK UPS:

• QB Matt Cassel, KC (50%) – Ever since they parted ways with LJ, the offense has opened up more and he’s been playing alright.  Chris Chambers is making plays and Charles is a great receiver out of the backfield.  A favorable schedule down the stretch after this week helps too [SD, Den, Buf, Cle].
• QB Vince Young, Ten (23%) – I don’t believe I’m actually recommending VY, but if I am, you know he must be doing well.  Had a bad game fantasy wise on Monday, but looked good, and still managed 16 points.  He won’t light it up, but should rock at least 15 per week for you.
• WR Mohamed Massaquoi, Cle (17%) – Yes I said to drop him last week, but things change.  He’s really the only real receiving threat the Browns have, and if they really are going to open up the offense more, then he’s the guy.  I’m not super high on him, as I don’t trust the Browns offense to keep producing even half as well as they did against Detroit and it’s likely he could disappear again.  However, his one other big game this year before last week was against a solid Bengals defense and this week they play at Cincy.  Give him a go if you’re desperate.  If he fails this week, it’s back to the scrap heap for him.
• WR Robert Meachem, NO (50%) – He’s scored double digit fantasy points three straight weeks now.  He really seems to be separating himself a bit from the pack of Saints receivers to become their true #2 behind Colston.  The second option in that passing attack is definitely worth not just having, but starting on most any fantasy team.
• WR Chris Chambers, KC (64%) – This is the last time I’ll mention him.  The Chiefs offense is starting to gel and with Dwayne Bowe suspended, he’s their top receiver.  Didn’t get in the end zone last week, but was a frequent target and made some plays to the tune of 119 yards receiving.
• WR Pierre Garcon, Ind (67%) – The can make plays, and Peyton Manning keeps looking his way.  Double digits the last two weeks and as long as he keeps getting chances he’ll cash in on enough to be a worthy starter for a lot of teams.
• RB Jason Snelling, Atl (81%) – If you need a running back and missed out on him and his two TDs last week, shame on you.  He may not be the best back ever (just 3ypc last week), but as long as Turner is out he’ll be productive.  If he’s still available in your league, get him now.
• RB Justin Forsett, Sea (82%) – More people jumping on the Forsett bandwagon than I thought might be.  He was nonexistent running the ball against Minnesota last week (just 9 yards), but had a TD and was huge in the pass game with 80 yards receiving.  Really good to see he can be productive even when the O-line can’t block for him.  Even when Jones comes back, he should still get the bulk of the work.  Oh, and he gets to face the Rams this week.
• RB Rock Cartwright, Was (26%) – I’m not as high on him as I was for Ladell Betts, but Portis is still out and he’ll be getting the start against Philly this week.  If you’re desperate for a RB this week, he’s not a bad play.  Had 67 yards on 13 carries and 6 receptions for 73 yards last week after Betts went down for the season.
• TE Kevin Boss, NYG (47%) – Has come back to life in the second half of the season, and with Eli looking healthy again he has a chance to catch TDs.  Got two of them last week to go along with 76 yards.
• Others – Nothing particularly relevant happened with these guys last week, but they’re available in 3/4 of Yahoo! Leagues, and should be owned more than they are.  If they’re out there, go get ‘em: QB David Gerrard, Jax (68%); WR Kevin Walter, Hou (73%); WR Mike Wallace, Pit (73%); WR Laveranues Coles, Cin (58%); WR Donnie Avery, StL (56%); RB Justin Fargas, Oak (32%).

DON”T ADD:

• QB Brady Quinn, Cle (5%) – He still sucks and won’t get to play Detroit again this year.  With Cincinnati, San Diego, and Pittsburg coming up, it’ll be back to single digit fantasy outputs.
• QB Matthew Stafford, Det (18%) – Same as Quinn.  He was injured in the Browns game and might not even be able to play Green Bay on a short week for the Thanksgiving Day game.  The schedule is pretty tough the rest of the year for the Lions too.

DROP:

• RB Bernard Scott, Cin (61%) – Had a great game last week with 119 rushing and 32 receiving, but Benson will be back this week.  Back to the bench for Scott and his fantasy value.
• RB Marshawn Lynch, Buf (88%) – He just hasn’t been able to get it going this year after that three game suspension.  He’s actually getting worse each week and put up negative points last week before being injured in the second quarter.  Their line is awful and he’s not getting his mojo back this season.
• RB Julius Jones, Sea (81%) – I was shocked to see him still owned in 81% of leagues.  The guy just isn’t that good and needs a great offensive line to play well.  He doesn’t have that in Seattle, and on top of that is hurt.  He’s back in practice on a limited basis now, but his status for next week is questionable.  Even when he is healthy again, he should be losing a ton of carries to Forsett.
• RB Larry Johnson, Cin (71%) – For the love of god, let him go!  He couldn’t get it done in KC with 20 carries a game.  Now he’s the fourth string back in Cincinnati getting next to no touches.  I didn’t think this warranted mantioning, but 71% ownership?!  Cut him even if you don’t pick up a replacement, he’s that bad.
• Aside for the guys above, here is a list of guys owned in over half of leagues that could use some dropping.  I’m not saying you have to cut them now, it depends on your league, but don’t expect much if anything the rest of the way: WR Santana Moss, Was (87%); WR Johnny Knox, Chi (66%); WR Eddie Royal, Den (61%); WR Torry Holt, Jax (60%); Willis McGahee, Bal (67%); RB Donald Brown, Ind (66%); RB Ladell Betts, Was (54%).

Hope these help.  Have a great Thanksgiving watching football and rooting for your guys.

Je continue ma série de photos bâtiments/ciel. Une belle après-midi d’automne à Lyon.

My favorite random image of the day:  “SIMONS” by Davin Risk

From me today–Rocco’s Pizza in downtown Portland

Monessen 624WBCL Designer Series Left Corner Radiant Wood Burning Fireplace – 624WBCL Review

Check Price Now!

Monessen 624WBCL Designer Series Left Corner Radiant Wood Burning Fireplace – 624WBCL Feature

Monessen 624WBCL Designer Series Left Corner Radiant Wood Burning Fireplace – 624WBCL Overview

Designer Series Left Corner Radiant Wood Burning Fireplace – 624WBCL Click here for Required Chimney Components Extra large glass viewing area and polished brass finish bi-fold glass doors give this fireplace eye appeal Standard radiant design provides the ability for a masonry look finish Fireplace interiors have all- refractory brick to provide a realistic masonry look with steel mesh molded in for durability Uses “S” series chimney system making installation simple Removable heavy duty grate allows for easy clean up of ashes Sturdy nailing flange secures unit during construction Gas appliance knockouts for adding gas appliances Black fire screens to protect against sparks Warnock Hersey/I T S listed for safety Available in See-Thru Peninsula Left and Right Corners with radiant face Side gas line accessible for a gas log installations UL and OMNI design certified Optional Accessories Outside combustion air kit OAC4 4″ diameter duct FP4U for use with outside combustion air kit Duct connector 403 Polished brass glass doors WB36LR 25-Year Warranty ensures dependability Click here for product specs information Click here for product literature Click here for product accessories Click here for product manuals

Monessen 624WBCL Designer Series Left Corner Radiant Wood Burning Fireplace – 624WBCL Specifications

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Nov 22, 2009 14:00:03

HP MediaSmart Server EX495

I haven’t been able to face the weekly ‘bun fight’ at our big supermarket in town so for maybe the last month/6 weeks I’ve shopped instead closer to home at our local farm and village shops.  

‘Village shop’ makes it sound so cute, doesn’t it?  I bet that gives you the impression of a charming little building, ivy clad, bay fronted with multi-paned glass, window boxes dripping with pretty pink geraniums and sky blue lobelia, and inside awaits the smiling postmistress and her husband, ready to help you with your order. 

Our village store may once have been as described here but alas, no more.  A few years ago, like almost every other small village shop here it was absorbed by The Borg, known more usually as ‘Spar’.  Spar, in case you’re not from around these ‘ere parts, is now a major European convenience store retailer, begun  70+ years ago in The Netherlands. 

When this chain first started absorbing our local shops into ‘The Cube’ there was a public outcry here because, like all small communities, we don’t like change and we especially don’t like change when it is instigated by people who are not ‘from here’.  (People who are not from here are to be regarded with deep suspicion because they must want something and it’s bound to be to our detriment). 

In my usual way of seeing both sides of the coin, I wasn’t one of those who screamed and shouted when Spar appeared in our midst.  The fact of the matter is that the corner shop that is closest to us was, in the old days, a smelly little hole with rotting vegetables on the racks and inconvenient business hours.  Worked late at the office and wanted to grab a frozen pizza on the way home?  If it was past 7 o’clock you’d be all out of luck.  Wanted to bake a quiche on a Sunday afternoon and you needed some eggs?  Hard cheese (or no cheese) because the shop was only open until midday.   Yet, and here’s the clincher, if we allow all of these small, independent traders to disappear we really are at the mercy of big chains.  Certainly, I’ve come across instances of asking why ’such-and-such’ isn’t sold, only to be told that it’s not what the local community wants.  Oh really?  Who decides what we want?  If you only offer us one thing then we will only buy one thing. 

My local farm shop is a shining example of how small, independent traders can play the Big Guys at their own game.  By opening long hours and offering high quality, fresh produce they have been able to move from selling just fruit and vegetables to offering fine wines imported direct from small wineries in France, to fresh meat from a local specialist butcher, to things like flavoured oils and unusual cheeses that you would normally only find in a delicatessen.  The point is however, that has only happened because they work extremely hard and most independent traders have not been willing to do that. 

OK, so why on earth am I pontificating about small traders versus large chains?  It’s my random brain at work. Believe it or not, it’s because I noticed yesterday that my all-cotton tee shirts are suddenly developing small holes and I think I know the culprit: ‘Persil’ biological washing powder.  This happened years ago with Persil and I went through every scenario of wondering whether we as a family were catching our clothes on sharp objects, or was it something maybe to do with my washing machine?  In the end I tried swapping washing powder and found that the problem was solved.  I’d forgotten all about this but because our village shop (a ‘Spar’) only sell Persil, that is what I have been buying.  Lo and behold – holey tee shirts (Batman).  This morning I’m hot footing it into town to the BIG supermarket to buy a different powder, before my tees are turned to lace.  That’s assuming they have a choice available, because if they were to opt, for their convenience, to only sell Persil then I guess we’d all be stuffed, now wouldn’t we?  

……………………………………………………………..

By the way, if you’ve noticed holes suddenly appearing in your laundry, this may be for a few reasons (I know because I have obviously done some research on this).  If you’ve encountered this problem, you may want to wander on over to my page at Voix Douce which explains it all.

Since the advent of the television, there has been the commercial. Commercials sometimes can prove to be annoyances rather than vehicles that connect the consumer to the best products. Today, a marriage between the entertainment and advertising industry has occurred where celebrities are becoming walking endorsements. However, unknown individuals exist who become the face and voice of a particular product or brand name.

Regardless of the company, they have an expectation that those who endorse their product will lead a life that is reflective of the advertiser. However, we have seen individuals throughout the years who lost their positions as product endorsers because of misdeeds in their personal lives.

What does this have to do with the Christian? It is simple. When we receive Christ, we instantly become spokespersons for God’s timeless product of salvation. Thus, God expects us to be representatives of this salvation even when we are not in front of the camera; that is, involved in religious activities or among other Christians.

As Christians, we have to abstain from worldly lusts and demonstrate love, integrity, and character in our lives. This is how we remain respected kingdom endorsers of the work of Christ.

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:1-3 (KJV)

If we continually disobey the Word and choose our own ways and thoughts, we can be removed from service. If we are unfruitful in our Christian walk, Christ taught that one could be removed; that is, from effectual service in Him.

The Christian’s desire must be to please God, that He may use his/her life in any manner. In all that is said and done, let it represent God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. The Christian’s life has to be a solid Kingdom Endorser.

Hence, the question remains, Are you a qualified endorser of the gospel message? Does your lifestyle misrepresent the gospel message? Just know that you can make a difference as your life reflects the Christian faith.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful. If you would like more inspirational materials, this and more is included in my book, “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book I),” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

This isn’t really art but I had to put it somewhere.

In the spring of this year I had the urge to try something new. I’ve always like the look of rustic furniture so I decided I’d try to make a chair from willow.  I did a little searching on the internet but ended up largely making up the process as I went along. I suspect some or all of it may have been done before they found a better way.

Down by a lake near us is a large area where the right willows grow- about 6-8 ft long first or second year growth. I cut them and strip the leaves off. Over a period of a couple days I stripped them of their bark, which peels of easily. For what I did the stripped of bark was useful to temporarily tie the willow together and in place while it dried. I would use a strong string were I to do it again.

First I tried to make a chair without a form to shape the legs and hold them in position while they dry. This was a bust- the outcome looked OK but didn’t have any strength to it as I couldn’t put enough of the willows together to make it strong enough. Secondarily, the willow that I first cut was too thin.

I went back and cut more willow this time picking more stout pieces- where the skinny end was no smaller than a pencil.  Were I to do this again I would cut even thicker willows.

Since the freeform approach didn’t work I built a square form with a height of my kitchen chairs and a bottom in the corners for the willow to bottom out against.  I them bend the willows to make all four legs of the chair but left what would be the back open- I would put the back also if I did it again. For the legs from which the back would be attached I used fewer willows since putting in the back would add to the thickness. To make the center of the chair to sit on, I put maybe 6 particularly stout pieces  on the diagonal, 3 one way, 3 the other way. Most of the  bent pieces were cut to be slightly higher than the top of the form( maybe 1 in. max). I tied the legs into bundles with the willow bark, and tied any of the crossing pieces making the center of the chair to prevent them from moving to far while they dried. I put a board on top of the filled form and put bricks on it to get all the willows to be flush with the form.   These needed to dry several day before they were permanently formed and didn’t spring back up when the board was removed.

After the legs dried I made the back. Willows were placed in the form and crossed at different heights with several used to form the rounded back of the chair. The willows were tied in place with willow bark strips wherever they crossed and as much as needed to hold them in the rounded form of the back. I put the board back on and also used some heavy bricks to bend the backrest somewhat so it was not straight up and down. I allowed this to dry for a week or so before the next step.

After I could remove it from the form, I applied glue to bond the willows together to increase rigidity. Where willows crossed, I used a round file to produce a rounded notch to increase the contact area and applied glue to them. I bought some leather strips from Jo-Ann Fabrics and tied the leg bundles and the bonded willow crossing points. Below is a picture of the end result. Not great but not bad for a novice.

painting, red and black 2009-no.01, 16″x20″ acrylic on canvas, by alyse radenovic,  at http://www.aelisheva.com

New image in the famous monuments photography contest

Washington, D.C. …
Vietnam Wall Memorial photography picture

Turning A Corner

There’s only one thing left, welcome home Austin family

"Oh, the school around the corner's just the same...." Paddy Crosbie.

On Deverell Place, just around the corner from Gardiner Street in central Dublin….. Is this Marlborough Street School?

Crossing Guards (309/365 11-05-09)

Originally uploaded by CarusoPhoto

A crisp, autumn morning…leaves rustling in the breeze and under foot…and crossing guards at a busy intersection: such are the things that make for a moment captured. Of course when I was a kid, the crossing guards were just, well, older kids who wore those orange seat-belt looking things, not the fancy vests of today’s modern guards.

v. To hide oneself in the corner

Spotted by me

Sabato 7 novembre, ore 18:00
CATANIA-NAPOLI: Si incontrano due squadre reduci da opposti risultati lo scorso turno; male il Catania, benissimo il Napoli a Torino. Il trend nelle ultime partite non darebbe scampo ai padroni di casa, tuttavia i risultati recenti dei Partenopei sono anche frutto di “insipienza” tattica delle avversarie. Numeri alla mano il Catania tra le mura amiche è squadra insidiosa e ben disposta in campo e Il Napoli potrebbe avere difficoltà a fare la partita. PRONOSTICO: 1X Scheda Statistica

Sabato 7 novembre, ore 20:45
ATALANTA-JUVENTUS: La Juventus, reduce dall’harakiri interno col Napoli, non può permettersi di perdere altri punti sull’Inter e incontra una squadra insidiosa, veloce e che ha tutto per metterla in difficoltà. I numeri premiano gli ospiti (gol fatti, tiri, rendimento), ma attenzione alla grinta di Conte e dei suoi uomini che nelle ultime due giornate hanno perso anche al di là dei loro demeriti. PRONOSTICO: X2, GOL Scheda statistica

Domenica 8 novembre, ore 15:00
PARMA-CHIEVO: Due belle realtà del nostro campionato; due squadre che uniscono ottimo gioco e buona concretezza complessiva. Il Parma in casa ha concesso poco agli avversari, e il Chievo in trasferta sa esprimersi molto bene. Numeri alla mano si nota un certo equilibrio: possesso palla e forza difensiva a favore del Parma, pericolosità e media gol a favore del Chievo. Il fattore campo fa pendere il bilancio per i padroni di casa. PRONOSTICO: 1X Scheda Statistica

CAGLIARI-SAMPDORIA: La Samp segna poco in generale e ancora meno in trasferta. Il Cagliari in casa sta facendo benissimo. Gli indicatori di pericolosità, attacco e difesa premiano i padroni di casa; rendimento, qualità dei singoli e…fattore Cassano sono a favore degli ospiti. PRONOSTICO: 1X, GOL Scheda statistica

BOLOGNA-PALERMO: Il Bologna è una delle squadre peggiori – non solo in classifica ma nel rendimento complessivo – del nostro campionato. Tuttavia contro squadre di caratura nettamente superiore si è espressa sempre su buoni livelli. Il Palermo alterna prestazioni ottime (vedi Juve) ad altre normali e soffre un po’ il mal di trasferta. Gli ospiti attaccano meglio e di più ma subiscono anche troppi gol e noi vogliamo dare fiducia al fattore campo. PRONOSTICO: 1X Scheda statistica

BARI-LIVORNO: Pronostico sostanzialmente chiuso guardando strettamente ai numeri. Pericolosità, tiri, rendimento, gol fatti e subiti dicono Bari, ma il Livorno di Cosmi è squadra coriacea e volenterosa. Numeri alla mano non dovrebbero esserci molti gol. PRONOSTICO: 1 Scheda statistica

UDINESE-FIORENTINA: Bella partita tra due squadre che esprimono un ottimo calcio, veloce e offensivo. Se i Viola non dovessero pagare la stanchezza del turno infrasettimanale di coppa potrebbero anche espugnare il Friuli. Tuttavia indicatori alla mano i padroni di casa sono sostanzialmente avanti e in formazione tipo possono tranquillamente battere chiunque. PRONOSTICO: 1X Scheda statistica

LAZIO-MILAN: I Rossoneri sono in netta ripresa e sembrano avere trovato la necessaria continuità di rendimento sia in casa che fuori. La Lazio continua nel suo periodo nero…che tuttavia prima o poi dovrà interrompersi. Il Milan prevale in cinismo, pericolosità e forza complessiva della difesa, la Lazio ha dalla sua fattore campo e tiri totali. PRONOSTICO: X2 Scheda Statistica

GENOA-SIENA: Classifica alla mano, non dovrebbe esserci storia. Il Siena – ultimo – attraversa una fase di brutto gioco e involuzione tattica e psicologica. Vincere a Genova è dura per tutti e non pensiamo che i Toscani possano farcela, sarebbe una sorpresa notevole. Alle voci gol fatti,  rendimento totale e cinismo i padroni di casa hanno la meglio. PRONOSTICO: 1 Scheda statistica

Domenica 8 novembre, ore 20:45
INTER-ROMA: L’Inter potrebbe tornare “infreddolita” dalla trasferta in terra ucraina, ma come sempre parte nettamente favorita. La Roma senza Totti sta soffrendo molto e l’Inter è avanti in tutti gli indicatori di peso. Lasciamo uno spiraglio al pareggio solo per la grinta espressa ultimamente da De Rossi e compagni. PRONOSTICO: 1, GOL Scheda statistica

Swing & Tilt Corner Arm LCD TV Wall Mount bracket for 15″ 17″ 19″ 20″ 22″ LCD TVs with standard VESA holes Review

This wall bracket is excellent. Very well made, robust, and nicely finished, a real professional job. It gives infinite variations of positions for the television, and a bonus is the fact that each hinged joint can be tightened or loosened to make any movement made tighter or easier. Delivery was prompt, complete satisfaction all round.

Feature

• Finished in Black to Match TV Style for Small LCD Models
• ** COMES COMPLETE WITH A FREE LCD TV CLEANER **
• For all VESA 100 & VESA 75 TV ( Measure the holes on the rear of your TV )
• Double arm Swing for Maximum versatility
• Complete kit with all screws etc needed

Overview

Nov 01, 2009 22:03:05

So , you may ask, why is this dude’s blog named: The obsesive non-nerdy boy corner.

"Secret Hideout" in Goethe Institut

Well corner is just for . . . a place, a little place with almost no space, like a little hideout where you can spend time and noone is gonna bother you. Every time  i go somewhere a try to find that unique corner where I can rest because, from time to time I think we humans  need some privacy.

The non-nerdy boy part stand for the fact that i do NOT consider myself a nerd (yeah right xD) however like everybody else in this world i have charasteristics that make me similar to one of them (however i use a good set of clothes most of the time xD) Some may say that I must just admit my nerdyness, however that would not be fair … For the proud Nerd Boys  and Girls all over the world xD.

Obesesive goes for my general sences of obsession xD yeah sometimes  I feel too close to something xD and the degree of obsession may become a bit annoying xD.

In base to that knowledge I will write in here about many aspects in my life ( being all those aspects non-nerdy and somehow obsessive as well. Feel  free to post some comments if you are an obsessive non-nerdy human as I am, or also if you are something else, I won’t kill you xD