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Added a couple new items to the office, so I thought I would update. Notice the car under the iMac screen. It is a University of Memphis convertible car that I bought while I was in Gatlinburg. I also got some new yellow cushies for my Grado SR60s. Also, I don't think the laptuk was in my old pic. It is a stand for the iMac that allows for some storage underneath. I usually unplug the tablet and slide it under when it is not being used.
ASCENSION NEWS: Embracing 5D Wealth Consciousness
Is it Time to Escape from Scare-City Consciousness?
The opposite of abundance is scarcity or Scare-City as I call it. Scare-City is another term for low frequency 3D living. How do I know about Scare-City consciousness? I was introduced to Scare-City consciousness by my family but my initiation came later. I worked in international banking in the City of London for a around a decade leaving in my late twenties in ’87. To be honest I was a bad fit. I did not believe in the work I was doing and I really was only there because I did not know what else to do and because there was a golden cage of financial benefits closing around me. This was a painful time where I felt I was a round peg being squeezed into a very square hole. Ethics was not something that was much talked about in the places I worked. On a number of occasions I raised concerns about a number of large projects the bank was involved \and I was told by most of my colleagues to forget my concerns about social justice and just focus on the bonus at the end of the year. None of this worked for me, you see I never cared about shareholders or bonuses. I knew in my heart that I needed to do something else but with a young family this was not an easy decision to take. Eventually I hit a crisis and energetically hit the wall. I took a year off sick to convalesce. Then I resigned. My soul was calling me to adventure and I could not longer resist to the call to the journey. I had no idea where it would lead but actually looking back this was one of the most important decisions I made. I am certain that if I had stayed there I would be dead or mad by now.
How Do I know About 5D Wealth Consciousness…
How do I know about 5D Abundance or Wealth consciousness? After leaving the 3D world of banking I entered the more politically left-wing world of local government. After 10 years there I left my job to finally leave the 3D Matrix of work behind for good. I was now fully on the path of following my heart. I had been exploring different spiritual paths for several years and the only area not aligned with my spiritual life was how I earned/generated money in the world. After a few adventures in different work settings I became a director of a not-for-profit organisation in 2000. This organisation hosted spiritual authors for talks and workshops. I stayed as a director for 13 years. It was challenging in the beginning because the organisation was not in great financial shape. and in that time I started to understand how spirituality, business and money could really work together. This was an incredible learning curve. I left the organisation in great financial shape when I stepped away at the Winter Solstice 2012. I did this to devote my time and energy to my own ascension business. This experience continues to be a journey of a lifetime.
This Dense 3D System is Wobbling and Will End…
I need to say at this point that the natural nature of the Universe is abundance. How do we know this? Well, just notice the sun and its radiance of light and energy. This radiance allows life on this planet to flourish. You may have noticed that their is no Solar Corporation anywhere sending you a monthly invoice for this gorgeous gift. This is one example of the generosity of nature. For another closer to the earth, think of one sunflower seed. This seed, if given the right conditions, will produce a gorgeous flower that in turn produces many hundreds of seeds. These seeds will create a field of flowers which in turn will create enough seeds for many fields of flowers.
We live in an abundant universe even though while in the density of the 3D Matrix we have largely been corralled into believing that scarcity is the natural order of things. This is something that most economists firmly believe. The financial system is set up so that abundance equals money which is a finite commodity. From a spiritual point of view money is energy and energy follows belief, intention and vision. Money as energy is attracted to certain frequencies and repelled by others. In 3D money was attracted to those who desired it the most, who valued it the most, who intended to have it the most. Now the planet is ascending the money game is changing. More and more it seems that money is attracted to individuals and enterprises with vision and energy. The Internet has changed the way much of the world does business. It has revolutionised the publishing and music industries for instance. Even though the world is changing and many individuals and enterprises are doing great work we are not out of the intense gravitational pull of the old 3D financial system just yet.
Consciousness is creative and since most of the global population feel disenfranchised from the abundance of the earth this has helped to keep the 3D Matrix of fear-separation-control very much alive. I know from working in the system and also my experience of being at the receiving end of the system that this generates not only Scare-City Consciousness on the planet but it is also responsible for just most of the major problems we face such as pollution and war. In this outgoing 3D Matrix, the monetary system locks billions of humans into debt, anxiety, consumerism and a very low frequency consciousness that blocks our ability to truly know our vast spiritual nature. Money itself is not the problem, the system that controls and manipulates monetary flows is the problem. This system could be viewed metaphorically as a pyramidal structure with a small group at the top reaping most of the rewards while many at the lower levels struggle to survive. A very few people at the top own a vastly disproportionate percentage of the global wealth. Because of the time we are in and the light impacting the planet this system is wobbling badly. This system is unjust, destructive, alien to human nature and to every living kingdom on this planet. I am sure that you are reading this because you know that there is something very wrong here. This system is in dire need of transformation otherwise it will collapse or partially collapse which will force a new more just and equitable system to be put in place. Further down the timeline it is destined that the whole system will be totally re-imagined and transformed so that energy exchanges serve the whole and not just the few.
That Old Babylonian Slave Money Magic…
Our current monetary system has been referred to by some as a Babylonian Slave Money Magic system. This indicates how long ago it was created. Controlling money gave many advantages. Controlling money flow allows an unprecedented ability to control the masses. It allows a small group of people to control most of the governments of the world. This small group has a tremendous power and this power has been in place for as long as systems have sought to rule. Many well-meaning people have tried to challenge the system. When Julius Caesar first came to power in ancient Rome, one of the biggest challenges was a mountain of debt which caused social unrest, poverty and civil war. There was a distinct lack of coinage, as people were hoarding currency. Julius Caesar ended the unrest by providing free rent for a year, limited how much currency could be kept per citizen and cancelled all interest payments due since the outbreak of civil war. Many were jubilant but not everyone was happy. The money changers had lost control of a lucrative business but this would not be the case for long. Caesar was assassinated, corruption returned, taxes increased, businesses failed, citizens lost homes and lands, and poverty became more the norm. Sound familiar? In the 60’s John Kennedy attempted to change the American financial system and look what happened to him. on June 4, 1963, John F. Kennedy signed an Executive Order calling for the issuance of currency through the U.S. treasury rather than the Federal Reserve System. He also gave a radical speech about the dangers of ‘secret societies that also sealed his fate. He was assassinated shortly after.
Scare-City is Created From the Inside Out…
Scare-City is created by conditioning and fear based programs that become lodged deep within the subconscious mind. Such programs, based on false beliefs about the nature of reality, have passed down the generations. My parents went through rationing in WW2 as children and my mother continued to act as if rationing could come back any moment through storing tinned food. She did this up until the time she passed over. So, scare-city programs can be passed down the bloodline. We may feel programs being triggered whenever we want to take a step to move out of such systemic control. These programs block our ability to generate personal abundance or success. Scare-city programs also come from past life experiences. Just think of a lifetime in a monastery where you take vows of poverty out of the belief that money is bad, sinful or evil. Also think about the opposite kind of experience, where you had money and as a result you and your whole family were robbed or killed as a result.
People are more easily controlled when they are fearful or in survival mode. I know from personal experience that every time I came to a major choice point in my life, one where I felt invited by spirit to take a step outside my familiarity zone it always came with a sense of fear or anxiety. How would I pay for my mortgage? How would I afford to eat? What would become of me? What if it all goes badly wrong? All of these thoughts were one way or another associated with beliefs around money. My worst-case scenario was a deep fear of homelessness. When I was at one particular choice point back in the late 90’s I remember scouting around looking for cosy spots to sleep should worst come to worst. (It never happened of course!) Scare-City Consciousness creates an almost hypnotic compulsion to accumulate money and to shop in order to stay safe and feel good and worthy. Scare-City could be viewed as a disease of chronic unhappiness. This is a disease of the spirit that creates a state of spiritual bankruptcy.
If we believe that our self-worth is based on how much money we earn or how big our house is or how much status is attached to our job then we in trouble. We need to see how these ideas are at work inside our minds so they can be cleared and replaced. These programs are like layers of an onion. At the top are the conditioning we have taken on in this life and below are ancestral and past life programs. These programs can be changed. When this happens, like Neo in the Matrix, we begin to unplug from the old system and open to new ideas and possibilities that more closely reflect our true nature as a multidimensional spiritual being. From that point we will feel much more aligned with the true nature of the universe and the natural order of life on this planet.
We are Moving Towards a 5D Monetary System…
Following the 2012 alignment we are experiencing an increase in light on the planet. This is serving to wake people up to a new level of consciousness. This will in time help to reboot many of the governing systems on the planet including most importantly our financial systems. Many awake Lightworkers and Starseeds are already working within such systems helping to shift the old energetic blueprint. Many are working on the outside to open new energetic possibilities on the planet. New new ideas are being created in the wings birthing new possibilities that will end the old paradigm of control. Current examples of this include certain crypto-currencies, which although still operate within the old system, they are helping to shift some of our core notions about money and how it is controlled. Such movements are shifting the planet towards a new economic paradigm, one that will be in harmony with spiritual laws and with the natural prosperity of the universe. 2017-18 are crucial years that are initiating some massive shifts in our dominating systems. This will be ultimately liberating. Overall the planet will continue to see slow and steady change towards a more wholesome light. Darkness will continue to be witnessed and released as we move towards greater global transparency and justice.
You Have Permission to Neutralise and Clear Scare-City Now…
With the expansion of spiritual tools and techniques around working with energy we can learn to create a more abundant personal reality. There are some things you can do to neutralise the impact of 3D Scare-City consciousness. Money carries so much projections of anxiety, desire, greed from the collective consciousness on the planet. This is one reason why Lightworkers keep money at bay. They feel it comes with a mixed bag of other energies they would rather not have. The good news is that it is possible to clear money of ‘negative’ energies so that you can let more of this cleaned energy into your life. Just as water needs filtering money does also. Can you imagine cleaning all the streams of money coming into your life so you feel uplifted by money? Once money is filtered the vibration of money can be enhanced, I personally like using gold energy to do this. Wherever money enters your life, from whatever source, imagine clearing that stream of energy with light. I imagine great golden nets of light catching any lower energies. I filter all money streams entering my personal space so that any energies such as fear, greed, shame etc. are neutralised.
Remember that money is energy and energy can be diverted, siphoned off or made to disappear down black holes in the global banking system. This is easier to do now that we have entered the digital age where money is energy blips in different banking systems. It is important to make sure your bank accounts are energetically clear and sealed so as to not leak energy anywhere. You can imagine filtering all the channels of money coming in and out of your bank account. Do this in meditation. Place filters of ultra violet fire across all channels coming into your tank. This helps to clear money coming in and also protect your money from energy vampirism. Replace these filters often. Imagine your bank account is a water tank. Check how small or large is the tank. Giver yourself permission to enlarge the tank. Then check it for leaks or dark portals which suck your money into some matrix oblivion. Close any openings with the help of your Higher Self and seal the tank with gold light. Call upon Archangel Metatron and place an infinity symbol on all sides of the tank. This is to indicate to your unconscious mind and also to the universe that you are ready for unlimited abundance. Then imagine expanding the size of the channels entering the tank. Make sure the light filters also expand to filter out any ‘negative’ energies. Also, place the outgoing channels higher so that money does not constantly drain out of your metaphorical tank.
We Can Together Co-Create Heaven on Earth…
It is important to realise that wealth consciousness is a mindset, it is much more than money. We can create heaven on earth and part of this involves opening to wealth consciousness. When you are vibrating with wealth consciousness, you no longer fear losing anything. You are at ease with uncertainty for this can lead to many new adventures and opportunities. Know this – we are path-finders, map-makers, dream-weavers. Much darkness is ending on the planet. We are heading for an new era of freedom and abundance on the planet. Imagine cancelling all ‘negative’ karma with money, imagine deleting all poverty vows and associated negative patterning in your consciousness? Imagine having a spring clean in your Akashic-Soul records. Close doors that need to be closed and open new doors that need to be opened. You have lived many lifetimes. Some of these lifetimes were amazing reference points where you experienced creating flow, joy and abundance. You are a multidimensional being. You have experienced wealth consciousness in different higher planes of existence. You know how to create a heaven on earth. Imagine upgrading all your thoughts and feelings around what is possible for you and the planet. Imagine being grateful for all the small and not so small miracles that come your way. As your reality shifts into greater flows of abundance you give permission for the collective reality to shift. We are heading for a new world, an Alpha Earth which will be abundance in so many ways. New ways of cooperatively living together as communities and larger groups of people. New technology and energy sources will release our fixation and obsession with old energy sources such as oil. New ways of communication will come online. New methods of travel. Basically if we can imagine it we can create it. Many Starseeds are here to help make these kinds of shifts and many more are coming in the decades to come.
Tips to Expand into 5D Wealth Consciousness Now…
OK so finally, here are some more ways to help bring a new awareness and consciousness to money while we are still in the outgoing 3D system. Look for happy energy exchanges and for win-win situations. Be clear in your agreements and contracting with other people. Sit for at least five to ten minutes daily and connect to your inner light. From this connection cultivate the feeling of love. Self-love is the baseline of happiness, health and abundance. Imagine wishing abundance to all the people you know. You can use affirmations to assist your unconscious mind reprogramme limiting beliefs. Then work with self-forgiveness. Release past experiences or judgements about these experiences. Unhook yourself from toxic emotions so that you can move forward in a healthy way. Ancient wisdom teaches us that attention flows where attention goes. Train your mind to shift from fear and anxiety to what gives you joy, what you feel grateful for. From there focus on what you would love to welcome more of in your reality. Start with feelings and from there open to specific experiences. The intention of giving and being generous opens a flow of abundance in our lives. Give what you most wish to receive. When you begin by giving then open your consciousness to receiving from all directions, especially those that are unexpected. Notice what feels light and expansive in your life and what feels heavy and tense. What do you need to walk away from or let go of? Then start to drop the heavy and open more to those things that feel light. Spiritually speaking we are all drops in the great ocean of existence. Together let us create a great wave of spiritual light and abundance on the planet, right now! We can learn to open the channels of abundance in all of its forms. Abundance can come through money, it can come through friendship, it can come through support in time of need, it can come through a pooling of resources, it can come through unexpected opportunities. The natural state of human beings is Abundance or Wealth Consciousness.
Blessings
Steve Ahnael Nobel
So sorry to all my contacts, I've been away from here for a while, having a bit of a break from making photographs. Kinda nice to unplug every now and then. I promise to catch up with everyone's work as soon as I'm back full time again.
I have had some real exciting news in the last week though. I won my first photography competition! It's an annual black and white comp run by John Batdorff Photography and I placed first in the judged section with Descend, Visibility and Skyscraper. Feels fantastic!
Hope you're all having a good weekend!
View this on black or hit L for the lightbox.
I switched off all my machines including my phone on the weekend and discovered a new hangout cafe! Just what I needed! Thanks to the owners and amazing staff at The Missing Piece for making my first visit such a treat. Will be back soon for more sketching and eating your great food!
www.lizsteel.com/2015/02/my-unplug-weekend-and-new-hangou...
[The Big Move is scheduled for tomorrow. As I explained over the last few days, no more uploads from me until the 25th or 26th of November at the earliest, assuming all goes well, which one should never assume...]
In the little downstairs room I have been using as an office for so many years in this house, and where I sit today like every morning in front of my desk, the bookshelves are now entirely empty, except for the two large JBL speakers (too heavy for me to dare move by myself), the Revox reel-to-reel tape deck and the small Teac components of my hi-fi installation. They have been unplugged and the cables are all coiled. They look like the folded wings of a dark bird, ready to die... or to fly.
On my desk, almost nothing remains: the PC I will shut down and unplug soon after I finish uploading these daily photos to Flickr, the Bose speakers attached to it, the banker’s lamp that will soon go dark and wait to be packed by the movers when they come tomorrow. All the rest I have already packed away.
There is great sadness at leaving one’s world behind, but as it must be done, then I know that I am also very fortunate because there is a whole new world that awaits me, full of joy and promises, and since for me “a world” implies first and foremost a home base, I am happy, in those moments of separations and departures, to share not pictures of melancholy, sorrow and old dust on empty shelves, but the first photos of the place I will call home from now on. Fate (I would not presume to say the Hand of God as I am quite sure I’m not important or worthy enough for Him to personally care!) has granted me a wonderful new chance at living a life of happiness and love and trust, and even though I am not convinced I deserve such a bliss, I fully intend to make the most of it, and to bring into it all I have to offer, however meager that may be.
The grounds cover more than four hectares of sweeping lawn which include an island and go all the way to the Seine River.
Why not have a day off and just see flowers. Drop the phone get a way form computers and let go of time. Get a way from TV shows for a day. Unplug from it all. I ask can any one do that for 24 hours? I feel so plugged in just what is unplugged? I don't even do a smart phone. But most People I know do. I know longer know what is truth in the world. With so much happening in plugged in that we all seem to live now. News in side of news.
I find my self listing on the edge of my seat to every thing I can on the presidential election from Hell. I really need to get a way. I feel so ashamed to live in America right now. And please do not even say who you might vote for or why. We all need time off. I don't think I can find a way to do so right now. But wish it could be possible.
Someone just send us a rocket ship and remove all the politicians of the world. So we the real people of earth can look at flowers, enjoy peace, and Be playful.
If you are looking for a quieter slice of Yellowstone National Park away from the bustling geyser basins, look no further than Lewis Lake. Tucked away in the southern portion of the park, about 12 miles north of the South Entrance, this high-elevation gem serves as an ideal base camp for water-based recreation and back country exploration. The lake itself covers approximately 2,700 acres and offers a peaceful setting for those who prefer to trade crowds for the sounds of nature. For those planning an overnight stay, the Lewis Lake Campground offers a rustic, forested experience. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, the site features 85 spots perfect for tents and smaller RVs (with a strict 25-foot vehicle length limit). While amenities are basic, including vault toilets, food storage lockers, and seasonal water spigots, the location provides immediate access to the boat ramp and shoreline. Keep in mind that there is no cell service or shower access here, so come prepared to fully unplug. Water enthusiasts will find Lewis Lake to be a fantastic destination for paddling and fishing. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted, provided they pass a mandatory aquatic invasive species inspection and display a park-issued permit. Anglers can try their luck catching non-native brown, brook, and lake trout, particularly near the southern outlet where the Lewis River flows toward the iconic Lewis Falls. For a true adventure, experienced paddlers often use the lake as a gateway, heading up the Lewis River channel toward the pristine waters of Shoshone Lake. Whether you are casting a line or embarking on a back country trek, Lewis Lake captures the wild spirit of Yellowstone in a serene, manageable package.
Wellsville, NY. June 2016.
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If you would like to use THIS picture in any sort of media elsewhere (such as newspaper or article), please send me a Flickrmail or send me an email at natehenderson6@gmail.com.
I just don't understand this. I'm told it's art. I want to understand, but I just don't get it. I'm having a Morley Safer moment.
I just found [5/19] out that the veteran CBS reporter Morley Safer died. Sad.
Try it on the machine for fit. I love this method, it's fast and easy and looks so nice. It matches the opening we made for the handle.
I have to unplug my cord to put the cover on and to take it off. I could have made it with an open slit all the way to the bottom but being so close to a corner the way mine is, I knew that would just cause that corner to stick out and not conform to the machine, so I chose this method.
Once the opening is done and you've trimmed the cover to the right length, sew your binding on to the right side. I used 2.5" straight grain fabric, folded and pressed in half. Starting on the back, I sewed it on with a generous 1/4" seam, joined the ends when I got back around to the back and then turned it under and hand-stitched it down all the way around. If you're cleverer than I am, you could stitch it down by machine, but I NEVER get it all caught the first time and that makes me mad, so I just do it by hand.
'Please draw the curtains,
Unplug the phone
Let's mess the sheets
And give our hearts a home
We are both adults,
Our eyes are open wide
Let's push away
The world outside'
Alondra is busy typing codes into the computer when the door opens behind her and Jerome and Rikki step inside. Alondra turns her head and once she sees them she gets out of her chair.
"Hey, I thought you were off today." Alondra says.
"Blondie here wanted to test run the framework." Jerome says to Alondra, "Let me get you to stop what you're doing and get her hooked up."
"Okay." Alondra says, "You know she's gonna need to stay inside for at least eight hours right?"
"So it'll be eight hours before I see anything?" Rikki groans.
"No." Alondra answers, "You'll see it coming around you right away, the delay is less than a minute. We just need to keep you in the tube for eight hours so it can finish scanning you and it keeps your mind together so that when you wake up you're not overloaded."
Jerome smiles, "Looks like you spendin' the night."
YOU CHOOSE:
A. "What happens if I unplug before the eight hours, and do you always need to be connected that long? You can't just hop in and out of it?"
B. "Uh, shouldn't I like, go to the bathroom and everything before I get in there then?"
C. "This sounds fishier then I imagined, what would happen to my mind if I woke up? What do you mean it keeps it together?"
D. Dynamic Response.
Every so often, I try to break the habit of reaching for the phone first thing in the morning by requiring myself to sketch something---anything-- before permitting myself to engage in the sometimes narcotic buzz of emails and updates and reports. This morning was hard, but I think it's a better way to start the day. My last self-imposed "Morning Unplug" was a series of continuous line sketches, which are particularly meditative. Now I'm breaking in the new sketchbook with these quick ones.
“The more you unplug yourself from the matrix of everybody’s expectations and caring what other people think you open up an incredible capacity to create. All the great minds, all the Elon Musk’s of the world had an idea and everyone said they were crazy. Defying what everyone else thinks and not caring what other people think is so important.”
(1/4)
For years, specifically the early 90's, I was blessed with a schedule that allowed me to be to celebrate the exhilaration of solo travel. To travel into personally uncharted territory with nothing but a skeleton of an itinerary and a backpack seemed to be my goal for each summer. The unknown world was just outside the door, knocking impatiently for me to answer, and without hesitation, I answered it every year. Even though I focused my world of travel in Europe, it was my world....a nomadic home away from home of sorts.
Like the image above shows (or at least I hope it shows), there is something quite exciting about having a vision of the trip ahead of you. A clear view of the end without an idea at all about what is around the corner.
Well, fast forward a few years and as could be predicted, life changes......having a family does that to you. I'm not saying that's bad, in fact if it all works out, I am sure that there is nothing better in the world. My wonderful daughter actually, continues to be one of the few things that keeps me grounded. She needs me, and I definitely need her. But like I said, sometimes life changes. We hear a lot about the struggle of the single mom, and I understand it fully. We don't hear, however, much about the struggles of the single dad. The constant wandering of the mind in finding its awkward new place in life. The part time dad, giving all that you can, never really pleasing your ex wife, while redefining who you are and what you gave up....yeah, its still a constant struggle now that I think of it...
It is, however, after deeper self discovery since I have become single again, that I realize how much I have tried to adapt. I, somewhat unknowingly let a passion, a serious passion for travel, discovery, and exploration, become trapped inside. You know, everyone has their heros. Super heros, titans of industry, sports figures, actors, musicians, .... you name it. Sure I have mine (lately its been a few self growth leaders), but I have always had a secret admiration for the wanderers. Nomadic courageous individuals who had the guts to take off for a years or two to walk, bike, and trek about the world always been seen by me as those who were truly living life......but hey, thats just me...
So, although its a challenge at this moment in my life to wander off too long, I have decided to dip a bit into the shallow end of the travel pool again. My career has taken me quite a few places in the past few years, but its time to bumble about on my own again. Thanks to a few extra frequent flyer points as well as some other reward points, I am hitting the road again. Although, there is a side of me is screaming to head out longer, I am limiting this little trek to about 2 weeks. My reignited passion has me traveling through a bit of France, Northern Italy, and Switzerland. With a focus on photography, I think I have laid out a nice variety for this short trip.
I hope to post a bit along the way, but at the same time, I am hoping to really "unplug" from technology for a bit. Good grief, the French can do it for 6 weeks every year...what's with us Americans. All that being said, I am sure you will hearing from me along the trip.
One more thing, I am sure I am not the only one that gets this feeling, but I wonder how many other people in their 40's wonder what they are going to do for a living when they grow up. LOL! For me, I can only hope that travel continues to find its place in mine.
Lastly (no really, ...... lastly)......thanks for reading. I know that this blog is somewhat of a self indulgent thing.....not always.....but usually.....
Well, next post from Europe!!!
For more from MDSimages, please check out my gallery, blog, and prints for sale!
Today's we are also smarter about reducing our environmental footprints, i.e. with a polished concrete floor, we achieve the most practical, aesthetically pleasing result, without the environmental impacts associated with flooring materials like carpet, hardwood and other types of coated or painted concrete floors. A concrete floor can literally last for centuries. Concrete is also a recyclable material, and we'll sleep better knowing that our design choices aren't contributing to the production of pollutants. In fact, a polished concrete floor is destined to outlive its owners - how's that for leaving a lasting legacy with a responsible ecological footprint?
Save energy to save money
Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or, use a "smart" power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts "phantom" or "vampire" energy use.
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water.
Use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying.
Save water to save money
Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.
Install a low-flow showerhead. They don't cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.
Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find out which occur naturally in your area.
Less gas = more money and better health
Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs while improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk of obesity.
Consider telecommuting if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.
Eat smart
If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store-and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.
Skip the bottled water
Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste.
Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
Think before you buy
Go online to find new or gently used secondhand products. Whether you've just moved or are looking to redecorate, consider a service like craigslist or FreeSharing to track down furniture, appliances, and other items cheaply or for free.
Check out garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops for clothing and other everyday items.
When making purchases, make sure you know what's "Good Stuff" and what isn't.
Watch a video about what happens when you buy things. Your purchases have a real impact, for better or worse.
Borrow instead of buying
Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.
Buy smart
Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.
Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently (and this means less waste!).
Keep electronics out of the trash
Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.
Make your own cleaning supplies
You can make very effective, non-toxic cleaning products whenever you need them. All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging-not to mention your indoor air quality.
1. The perfect is the enemy of the good, 2. Something about water and light, 3. Late Afternoon at my Kitchen Window, 4. Is There a Link Between Office Temperature and Productivity?, 5. WHITE OUT, 6. iHome Theater, 7. DISCUSSION THREADS, 8. I am strong. I am invincible. I am redhead, 9. My kitchen, 10. Space for enjoyment 'Built-in internet' LED TV, 11. DisSymmetry, 12. Cool Kids Room, 13. Work without disturbances
Modern isn't the cold interiors that many interpret as being unlivable, let go of the clutter and open your mind to a world of amazing detailing. How our environments mold our lives in subtle ways that may not be clear to us. There's a reason you walk into a space and feel refreshed or excited or maybe even a little curious to see what lies ahead.
Created with fd's Flickr Toys
For the Daily Dog Challenge -- 10/7 "A Walk In The..."
For Our Daily Challenge -- 10/7 "Value"
For 365: The 2014 Edition -- 280/365
Today was the last day of National Walk Your Dog Week, and the girls and I, along with my husband who has been sulking about being left out of some of our adventures, went to walk in one of our favorite places, Constitution Trail. We've had fun with our commitment to walk in a different place every day for the past week. One thing that I really value is our walking time, and it's a bit of a sacred event around here. We try to avoid being on the cell phones and just unplug from the world for that time while we're out walking. I think it's made for a better bond with the dogs, and it gives us time to talk without distraction. It's also made us all healthier and happier.
You can read more about Bunny and Flattery at TalesAndTails.com.
There is nothing like the immense power of a lightning bolt... I've always gotten excited by storms ever since I was a little kid. I remember my mum wanting to unplug all the T.V's and turn off all the lights where as I wanted to run outside and watch haha
I've titled this shot "creation" as there is just this wonder and awe that surrounds lightning. I took this about 2 weeks and it's shot just after sunset and you can just see the last fading red's and oranges in the lower left on the horizon. So most of the light in this scene was created from the lightning itself !
I wrote some tips for photographing lightning here www.lukezeme.com
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Software and Presets I personally use in my photography
Lightroom replacement(alternative) software - Luminar! Use code "lukezeme" for a 15% discount -Skylum's Luminar Link
Preset collections, Photography tutorials and loads more , USE code "lukezemephotography" for 10% discount - Preset collections, Photography tutorials Link
Best HDR software on the market - Use code "lukezeme" for a 15% discount! - Skylum's Aurora HDR 2019 Link
Topaz has an incredible Photoshop Plugins collection + Studio for anything you can think of - Topaz Labs Link
The BEST Time Lapse software on the market. This software makes creating incredible Time Lapse videos easy for anyone - LRTimeLapse5 Link
On1 has been delivering amazing photography software for a long time, check out their Suite and plugins here - On1 Software Link
Get Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom on the Photography Plan, a cheaper option for photographers :-) - Adobe Photography Plan Link
My 50 best Lightroom presets in 1 pack, including 10x HDR presets - Get Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom on the Photography Plan, a cheaper option for photographers :-) - Luke Zeme's Premium Preset Collection Link
Sell your own prints online with a Zenfolio online print shop, this is how I sell my prints online - Sell your own prins online Link
Easily build a website with WIX, they have beautiful templates that make the whole process a breeze - Build your own website with WIX Link
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and have a great weekend!
A shot from our Colors of Costa Rica Workshop. At the Tortuga Lodge in Tortugero. My fave of the 3 places we visit. Every room as a hammock :-http://www.apertureacademy.com/photography-workshops-costa-rica.php
I got my hair cut, and left it a little longer on the top. Now begins the battle to prevent myself from looking like Lyle Lovett. Already, I think I'm losing that battle. :-)
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"Closing time
Unplug them people
And send them home
It's closing time
The night's all that's left behind
You take your part and I'll take mine
And go on home
It's closing time"
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Closing Time - Lyle Lovett
www.youtube.com/watch?v=o80pVLDDJh4
I'm not a big Lyle Lovett fan, but this one chokes me up. It's definitely worth a listen.
Today's story and sketch "by me" we are at the Bootamunga
worm hole Six enter and exit portal, at the Bootamunga
super deluxe rest area and campground, located on the shoreline of Lake Havasu Arizona. Bootamunga is becoming a favorite
destination for Aliens touring the Galaxy, especially for
Aliens who want to unplug from their fast paced lives
on their home moon or planet, and many who migrate to Earth
to live here in Arizona, or travel the Earth off the grid,
and off the Highways, in self contained vintage campers
or travel trailers. Many aliens will purchase a fully restored anti gravity RV from restorers like B&R Vintage Anti Gravity RVs, or purchase one of the hundreds of derelict old thrashed units that are for sale. Many do prefer to restore their own with personal anti gravity requirements, and personal decorating tastes.
To many Aliens it has become an obsession, thousands of do it your selfers will be meeting up in nearby Quartzsite
to see the latest in anti gravity RV Propulsion and
off the grid goodies. And meet aliens from other planets,
and other just Weird Folks who show up, to share camping
stories, and where to find the best low profile off the grid camping spots around the Earth.
Bootamunga is a must visit site if you want to meet many different varieties of aliens, or just weird folks all in one place, but those and many more stories are for another time, until then taa ta the Rod Blog
Some days I just want to unplug everything and run away...today was one of those days. Technology was not my friend, tomorrow will surely be better. HMBT
While hiking, I have been seeing a growing number of people taking only a brief view of the surroundings and then burying themselves in their electronic devices. This ongoing project highlights the need to re-examine our need to unplug and just enjoy the beauty of this world.
Yashicamat 124G
Rollei RPX 25
©2018 Joseph Brunjes
All Rights Reserved.
Do not use without permission.
See more of this ongoing project:
East Canal District - Located close to the Horticus Botanicus, Botanical Gardens and Artis, Amsterdam Royal Zoo, with easy access to central Amsterdam and Zuidas.
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Wittenberg - Where Amsterdam feels like home
Eighteenth century on the outside and yet contemporary within, Wittenberg is a haven for travellers seeking a second home. This boutique aparthotel provides you with the freedom to unplug from the hectic into the calm – elegant but relaxed surroundings in the heart of Amsterdam. Behind its majestic, historic and canal-side façade, each apartment has been carefully designed to be unique, Dutch and modern. Wittenberg combines the attentive service of a boutique hotel with the convenience and independence of residential living.
Walk through the doors into an urban retreat of comfort, filled with natural light and bright interiors that create a sense of space. Each of our 115 apartments have been restored and enhanced to reflect the conveniences of contemporary Dutch design, whilst preserving the Wittenberg’s authentic and original ethos, charm and character. Wittenberg is furnished with a myriad of beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces exclusive to the guests of the property ideal for work, play, meetings, gatherings and/or some quiet down time.
Many have called Wittenberg “home” since 1772. Located in the east of the city by the Nieuwe Keizersgracht canal, this well-kept secret is comprised of boutique shops and hip bars and restaurants. For those of you that desire something a bit more mainstream, the botanical gardens and Artis Zoo are within walking distance, while Hermitage Amsterdam is just around the corner. And for those who have to leave the calm refuge of Wittenberg’s restoring walls to work, the city centre and business districts are easily reached by public transport.
Our House Hosts have been trained to be discreet and welcoming, available at all times to help you with any questions you have – or prepare you a cup of artisan coffee if that’s what you fancy. At Wittenberg, the pace, lifestyle and everything else is entirely up to you. So make yourself at home.
While hiking, I have been seeing a growing number of people taking only a brief view of the surroundings and then burying themselves in their electronic devices. This ongoing project highlights the need to re-examine our need to unplug and just enjoy the beauty of this world.
Rolleiflex 2.8FX
T-Max 400
D76 1:1
©2018 Joseph Brunjes
All Rights Reserved.
Do not use without permission.
See more of this ongoing project:
Dual 27" Thunderbolt Displays daisy chained off a 15" Macbook Pro gives me all the screen real-estate I would ever need for graphics work plus it gives me the flexibility to unplug quickly and take my entire machine with me to meetings. The best of both worlds.
The picture is taken on cliffs overlooking the north sea, just as a sea mist settled in, to the almost exact height of the cliffs. it was like standing on clouds. These are the moments you appreciate, and remember the most
Sorry for the lots of writing. At the beginning of the year, i resolved to be more open about myself. Of course, in my context, it means im still very very private and only about one tenth as open as most people, but i am trying to get better!
I've been told i could drop dead several occasions, by several different doctors. Four times in my life i've been diagnosed with blood clots, and the last time was close. Hours close
My question to myself is, if you've been given not just one, not two, or three, but four chances at life, how do you decide what is a good life? I didn't know what to do with my first life, and the second, third and the beginning of the fourth life hasn't seen much change. Is it enough to be a good person?
I keep thinking back to the day. At 650am i could barely walk up the street. I had to stop three times to walk 200metres. I was feeling so sick and shaky and seriously considered caling 999 then. But never did i imagine what it was. So i kept going. By 1230 that afternoon I asked to go home. I've never done that before. Luckily I changed my mind and went to hospital, expecting to be told I was being stupid and to go home. By 330 I was listed as critical and life threatening. (my life, i wasn't threatening someone else!)
It's what you remember in these moments. I remember the student doctor Matt was talking to me. At the time I never realised it, but he never left my side when i was in the side ward. I wonder now if he was told to stay there. Sneaky NHS! But really, he was awesome. He'll be a really good doctor one day. So will Katie, who was the doctor looking after me whilst the initial tests were being done. I could barely breathe, but she stayed so calm and relaxed. I was never in panic myself, but i'd have picked up if they were. I had been playing with the heart monitor, making the heart rate go up and down by moving and counting how long it took to recover to its then "resting" heartrate. Which i found later was much higher than my normal resting heartrate. Hmmmm, probably won't be doing that again. I started to get a bit more curious when they said my condition was "their worst suspicions confirmed". Really? So what is it then? I never really had chance to ask them at that point, owing to me struggling to breathe, and them whisking me to a monitored ward, with two nurses in two to look after me.
So there i was, in a monitored ward, installed directly in front of the nurses station, rather than by the empty window bay. Damn. I would have liked a view. By this time i've texted my dad to tell him i'm in hospital, and telling him not to call me because i can't breathe. Of course, he calls me...... Doofus!
So i set to getting myself comfortable. With an oxygen line coming in from the left underneath my arm to a mask over my mouth, with three heart monitoring wires going across my chest from the right, with a blood pressure squeezy thing (technical term, obvs') on my right arm that takes my blood pressure every hour. In a strange bed, being stared at by people i've never seen. All older than me by at least a couple of decades. Except the topless guy handcuffed to his bed, who seems to be having the worst comedown ever. Completely silent, but strained . Like he wants to tear away from himself, but can't. I don't know if i felt sorry for him, or glad he was handcuffed. He didn't seem to be aware of himself or his surroundings.
Oddly, at this point, i'm still not frightened, or scared. Should I be? I'd still describe myself as curious about it all. What happens next? I've never done this before. I soon found out. The nurse on duty introduced herself, and busied herself with taking results from the various monitors adorning me. The senior nurse then popped over just to check me over. It was him i first asked the question "how serious is this"? I liked the way he answered. Matter of fact and honest. "if you hadn't come in today, you would have collapsed and come in this weekend in an ambulance. Or worse. You'd have been dead by sunday/monday for certain". I can't remember his name, but he said he was going to work at another hospital tomorrow. He worked hard, and it showed in his face. But never in his attitude or his demeanour to me. He was someone else i liked.
The doctor doing his rounds then saw me. A gentleman doctor, with a kind face and a large waist. He had a smile that showed he knew what he was talking about, and that things would be ok. An earned confidence about him. I liked him, despite him telling the nurses I was not allowed to leave the bay. I was to use a commode or a bottle if i wanted to go to the toilet. If i have a recommendation for the NHS, it's to find a way around this. I could use a bottle, but not a commode. Not with only a flimsy curtain with ill fitting closings between me and the other patients. Can't they let you use a private bathroom, with walls and put a sign on the door saying "Patient xxx entered at 345pm", and then knock on the door at 348pm just to check they are ok? The door doesn't have to be locked, all it has to be shown is that it's occupied. Yeah, it's not a perfect system, but then again, they weren't perfect curtains!
So anyway, back to the doctor. He told me my condition was life threatening and critical. At this point my parents were there, so it saved me some explanation. Which was good, as speaking in sentences was something waaaaaaay beyond me at that point. How i wasn't to move in case the clots moved and if i needed anything, i was to call a nurse. Obviously i could move a little bit, but jumping out of bed and going for a wander was a no no
First night in a hospital ward. Ever. For anything. Didn't sleep more than half an hour at a time. I never sleep well in rooms with strange people anyway, and definitely not when there is activity around. Maybe in a previous life I was a prey animal, if you believe in reincarnation and all that. If i was prey, hopefully it was something eaten only by the biggest creatures. A dolphin gets eaten by sharks for instance. I'd have been a dolphin. A carefree idea of the rules, but respectful of them. Or am i talking about me now? Another discussion for another day :P (erhaps)
Not to forget about all the medical equipment around and on me. And a cannula in the crook of my left arm that kept catching on my oxygen tube. I was more scared of waking up with half my blood on the floor, than my lungs and heart stop functioning. It's only useful to worry about the things you can affect right? The rest will take care of itself.
Second day. I have a wash, but cant do it very well. Im way too tired too quickly and the wires get in the way. Breakfast is here. Im aware i can't use the toilet, so i eat sparingly. The toast was barely warm. The nurses change over. Again, a nice nurse, and i settle down for the morning and watch things unfold. I see a different doctor today. A lady who reminds me of Cate Blanchett. She asks me with a slight tone of speaking to a child "David, do you understand why we are all being so twitchy around you?" I reply "yes, because ive got massive bilateral pulmonary embolism". Although i hadn't really noticed people being twitchy around me. My nature is to stay low profile and out of the way. The doctor smiles and asks if i need anything, to which i reply no. What can I have? i cant use the bathroom, and i can hardly ask her to go and get me a starbucks. Although i was tempted, just for the sake of being cheeky and making someone laugh :) Thinking about it now, i wonder if its better to say "we can do this, this and this for you if you'd like?" I never knew what she could, to ask for it. But maybe for a busy doctor, its a dangerous thing to be too tied up with the small things that make a person feel better, but doesnt actually make them better. A doctor is there for everyone, not just for me. And there are a lot of patients
I also meet another senior nurse today. A lady, with brown hair and brown eyes, with a slight gap between her front teeth when she smiles. She smiles sweetly, with a glint in her eye and a smile that says you can challenge me, but i'll win. I like her too. She spoke to me about what i was drinking and eating. I didn't want to have the discussion that i had consciously dropped my intake of food and drink due to the toilet arrangements, but i did admit to drinking less. So she 'threatened' me with installing a drip in my arm. But in a nice, almost motherly way. So i agreed to drink more. Luckily she didn't push me about the food. Apparently it's not so important how often you eat, or don't eat as the case may be for the first few days, but it's really important you still drink every day. I already heard before hospital that people can only survive a few days without water, but can survive over a week without food, but in my defence, at this point in time, i didn't know how long I was going to be in hospital, and I was very conscious I couldn't use that bathroom!
Second night in hospital. I watched the sunlight on the buildings and roads slowly change to streetlights and car lights. It was interesting to watch a day fade to night like this. Something people don't do enough of. The other patients slowly fade to sleep, but im still awake. Partly because its still new to me, partly because im very aware of the medical kit working to monitor me, and partly because apparently i snore! Really loudly. So i dont want to deprive the other patients of sleep. I eventually do sleep better, but a few times i wake to see the concerned face of a nurse over me checking my pulse, as the monitor flashes red on the ceiling. "is there a problem?" i ask. "no" is always the reply, and as i'm in their care and i have to trust them, i go back to sleep. Wondering if i'll wake up. What can i do. It's all internal, i can make sure i don't move and follow the doctors instructions, but beyond that, im waiting for things to happen. Or hopefully not, as the case may be
Third day. Again struggled to wash properly, but by now im figuring things out and am wearing better clothes suited to staying in bed, so i dont get as hot and sweaty as i had been. The thought of the toilet is starting to intensify. I eat less for breakfast. Start thinking through my conversation with the doctor/nurse to be allowed to use the bathroom. I see the commode being delivered to other patient. Happily dont see them using it. Saggy assed old men is not something i need to see. Ever. My mum has bought an ipad. Im using it. God bless apple and technology. The hospital wifi is just strong enough to let me watch a film "despicable me". God, i love this film. Yeah, i nearly cried. But my ability to push things deep, out of the way and to one side comes through. Desperately trying not to think about other things coming through. Discussion with the medical staff about the toilet is just about set. A bit of pleading, a bit of common sense, a bit of stubborness, mixed in with a soft tone. Yeah, ive got this sorted.
Damn, the nurse im not so sure about is on shift now. Conversation will have to wait until tomorrow
Sleep a bit better on the third night. Im becoming comfortable with my surroundings now. Tonight a new patient keeps getting up, dressed and hiding in the bathroom. He wants to go home. He doesnt know where he is. He doesnt know where home is. Asks me for some money for a taxi. I say to talk to the nurses and see what they say. They put him to bed. Repeatedly. He repeatedly does as he is told, and then gets dressed and out of bed again. It's gone midnight before i get to sleep
Wake up at 6am. Conversation about the toilet is to be had today. Nurse approaches. I'm being moved to another ward. Conversation can wait. I get to my new ward. With my own room!! With a bathroom!! Wait for the nurses to unplug me from the now unneeded heart monitor and blood pressure tube. They connect up oxygen and ask if i need anything. My only question is how long will i have the room? They dont know, it depends if someone else needs it. Its normally for infectious patients. I say if they need to kick me out they can do, but they tell me to make myself comfortable. As soon as they leave, i use the bathroom. Much happier now. Im a fussy eater, but im very much looking forward to the breakfast menu. I have cornflakes, toast and jam, and tea. For a moment I have completely forgotten why im here, and im just enjoying the moment, feeling the room heat up with the upcoming sun. Things are getting better :)
Right now, i'm nearly five months off work. Other than the above, i have spent another 14 days in hospital since the third day described above. But thats for another time of writing. Right now, im getting tired and headachey. I've lost alot of my stamina and capacity to operate normally, but not the belief that I will get better. It'll just take time, and learning how to do things i could do before without thinking.
I still don't have the answer to what a good life is. I'd like to think i recognise the good in other people, and i have confidence i have some good in me. I'd like to think i'm a good person who occasionally makes bad mistakes. I'm still heartbroken over the person who blocked me, i still don't know what i did wrong. I reread the messages we exchanged several times. I've seen a lot worse go back and forth between other people. Maybe i said the wrong thing, but I meant it in the right way. Maybe it just wasn't meant to be. As i said to them at the time, i don't regret trying to make someone laugh or feel better, i only regret failing in that goal, and not having the chance to fix it when i do wrong, when i make mistakes, as all people do. I hope that's good enough
PS this is a story to help others in a similar situation, but if it helps anyone else, then even better. This was my first few days.. I'm doing better now. So will you