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After nine years, I am leaving blogspot.com and switching over to a new blog hosted by Word Press. My website (robinsamiljan.com) has also been redesigned and because of the nine years of history with this blog I am not deleting it, but hope you will continue to visit me at the new blog address here - http://robinsamiljan.com/blog/
It has taken me over a year to finally bite the bullet and invest in a new web design. My old site was created using iWeb, a template the Apple company offered years ago. They quit offering web hosting and supporting the software a while back and I did nothing about it. I started having security issues and virus concerns, and building the new site was the best solution for me.
I have come to realize that if you don't keep up with the ever-changing world of technology you get left behind.
Sunday, November 5, 2017
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
The Art of Repetition
each painting is 4" x 4"
encaustic on cradled birch panel
Creating a rhythm or pattern by repeating the same subject matter over and over has captivated artists over the years... from Monet and his Haystacks, to Andy Warhol and his Pop Art. Color dictates mood and shifts energy and movement.
Pathways have been a consistent element in my body of work. I am currently working toward simplified landscape paintings bordering abstraction, by repeating the landscape theme using minimal lines in composition. My hope is to also create a more sophisticated and subtle end result.
The Road, study in repetition
encaustic on Rives BFK
22" x 10"
each painting is 18" x 24"
watercolor on Arches 140 lb. paper
Most recently I discovered printmaking and encaustic collagraph techniques, my last blog post features pathway prints here - Seeing, Doing, Learning
And just recently I purchased a pin press, allowing me to continue to explore printmaking and Pathways from my home studio.
Akua Pin Press
I'm just going with the flow and following my heart.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
NEW: Seeing, Doing, and Learning
"Any fool can know. The point is to understand."
― Albert Einstein
For some time now I have been trying to figure out what an encaustic collagraph is and how it is made. In order to understand this unique type of print I decided to take a weekend workshop with master printmaker Jeffrey Hirst. A group of my regular students were also interested in the opportunity to learn a new medium and we all spent the time together creating encaustic collagraphs.
"The Burren"
10" x 8"
encaustic collagraph on Rives BFK
We each made three different printing plates, we learned about dry point tools, how to create layers on our plates by adding wax and then reprinting. We also double printed one plate after the other on a single sheet, allowing a detailed layered transparency to reveal parts of each individual plate within one single print. I was truly fascinated and excited by the layering techniques and translucent qualities of this process.
All of our prints were on Rives BFK paper, 15" x 11" sheets using 10" x 8" acrylic plates. We used AKUA intaglio inks and experimented with several different coloring techniques. Hopefully I will continue to explore the medium and combine it with the creative muse I discovered and connected with in Ireland.
Ireland continues to be the key focus and inspiration for my new works. Repeating the same composition of the curving road, simplified, breaking it down to the core, reminiscent of the Irish landscape, is my way of paying tribute and remembering the Burren, County Clare.
More of my encaustic collagraphs from the workshop:
As I discover a multitude of ways to create the memories of this wonderful country I hope I will be able to tap into feelings of place and belonging.
"Emerald Isle"
30" x 24"
encaustic on cradled panel
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Art & Soul Journey, Ireland 2017
I just returned from a 12 day visit to Ireland. I attended an encaustic workshop taught by Lora Murphy and Kathryn Bevier at the Burren College of Art, combined with visits to historical and cultural sites. It was fabulous, and although I am still processing new painting techniques and gorgeous grey/green landscapes of the Burren in County Clare, I want to keep the memory alive. Ireland touched me, the landscape literally is a reflection of this ancient place.
I created a brief slideshow of my visit, paintings to follow in the coming days.
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Studio Visit Magazine, volume #38
I have two paintings featured in volume #38 of Studio Visit Magazine, now available in galleries across the country (it's also available online ~ free ~ as a PDF file).
I submitted work last winter on a whim, and was pleasantly surprised when I received word of acceptance by juror Diana Gaston. Sometimes I doubt my impressionistic style of landscape painting. Much of my professional network on social media sites is inundated with abstract/contemporary/minimalist artists. Over the years the struggle with my inner critic, haunting me when I least expect it, forces me to re-evaluate what I am trying to do with my art and how I present it to the world (as an extension of my creative self). I am always working towards trusting my choices. This self doubt becomes an exercise that I have come to realize is necessary in order to nurture, learn, and grow as a professional artist.
Next weekend is my final summer festival exhibition of the season before I shift into teaching mode. The Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival is a three day event, combines fine art with fine food establishments and live music. It is important to me that I create an exhibition space that represents a cohesive body of work. Something new to my exhibition is the addition of natural wood frames.
I resume teaching both weekly classes and workshops in September at both Evanston Art Center and North Shore Art League. Before I am back into a weekly teaching routine, I am going to be in Ireland beginning of September, attending an encaustic workshop at the Burren College of Art, taught by Lora Murphy and Kathryn Bevier. I will embrace the opportunity to take what I learn with these two fine artists and see how I incorporate it into what I already know. Workshops are a luxury that I don't get to do often enough, and being in Ireland will certainly inspire a new vision for land inspired paintings.
Monday, July 31, 2017
Cup Overfloweth!
I just came back from a visit to Santa Fe, NM (first time being there). Since I've been back in town I have been painting with new ideas, revisiting older works trying to make them new again, embracing fresh energy and vision. It's been like a painting frenzy!
I fell in love with Santa Fe, I think this happens often to artists. There are loads of galleries on Canyon Road, but one has to wonder how they all stay in business. The combination of adobe homes, incredible hand made turquoise jewelry, galleries everywhere you look, the Georgia OKeeffe museum and home, all adds up to inspiration from a wonderful place with bold mountain vistas and desert.
Below is a smaller version of the doorway combined with mountain and desert cactus. I have framed this as a triptych, each painting is 3.5" x 2.5", I call it "Santa Fe - scape".
10" x 8"
mixed media encaustic
Below is a smaller version of the doorway combined with mountain and desert cactus. I have framed this as a triptych, each painting is 3.5" x 2.5", I call it "Santa Fe - scape".
One thing that surprised me was the overwhelming number of health and wellness centers, oxygen and cleansing bars, and a strong presence of the Buddha (along with other symbols of spirituality). I photograph Buddha where ever I go, and decided to use photo transfers fused into wax medium in the three new pieces below.
I have also been revisiting older paintings trying to make them new again. The Chicago cityscapes below were done when I first moved back to the city over three years ago but were drab with minimal color. I've added rainbow colors using pan pastel, and now feel like the paintings have some zing.
Currently I'm working on a mountain scene after a visit to Pecos National Historic Park. I hope to finish before my next and final art festival weekend of the summer. Show details here:
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Travel Muse
Cliffs of Moher
County Clare, Ireland
24" x 36"
encaustic and oil stick on clayboard
Wells Street festival
Art in the Village, setting up with my friend Kelly
At some point last month during the craziness of festival exhibitions I decided to travel to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in July. I've never been there and have always felt the landscape in the southwest to be a beautiful inspiration. I am curious to see the art galleries, but more excited to see the landscape, rocks and terra cotta colors.
I also decided to signup for a 9 day encaustic workshop being put together by 2 artists I have met at the International Encaustic Conference. The workshop is in September and is being hosted by The Burren College of Art in County Clare, Ireland. Five days of painting along with several days of touring in County Clare. A highlight for me will be seeing the Cliffs of Moher (painted above using various photographs).
Deciding to participate in this trip had a lot to do with two successful festival exhibitions, but it also flowed into my most recent interests in the history of 16th and 17th century England and Europe. I have spent "quality" time watching shows on Netflix, specifically about Henry the 8th and Mary Queen of Scots. I love when life, history, and landscape are an artistic muse.
Monday, May 29, 2017
Art Books
Pictured below, three of my hand made art books. The book pages are made of 100% cotton recycled deckled edge paper; front and back covers are cardboard covered with mixed media collage encaustic mono prints and watercolor paintings.
Middle book with wolf 7.25"x5.5"
Top and bottom books 8.5"x8.5"
From my thesis paper:
"The aesthetics involved in creating art is a reflection of the act of living. The art making process brings us fulfillment and pleasure from the individual process of creating something out of nothing. It is an expression of who we are and it amplifies the passions within each of us".
These books will have collaged artworks inside each page, combined with poems I have either written or collected over the years (below left - Lotus book cover, below right - inside front pages of Lotus book).
Sunday, April 23, 2017
"Conversations with Color"
30" x 24"
oil stick, encaustic on cradled birch panel
"Party Time"
7" x 14"
encaustic and watercolor collage
"Desert Cactus"
16" x 16"
mixed media on board
As evident by my newest paintings posted above, I have had color on the brain! The spring season is always inspirational to me, but I have been re-assessing where I want to be with my art which has led me toward abstract shapes combined with bold color and energized brushstrokes.
At home, I have been decluttering and replacing major furniture items with a simpler, cleaner look. As I often do, I changed the artwork in my living room to aid in the redecorating. "Conversations with Color" was created in order to add bold abstraction to the room and I am attached to this new painting, for now, but eventually I will include it in my festival exhibitions this summer. Being an artist has always had its advantages when it comes to decorating the walls in my home.
Also note - the large paper collage above the couch is by Nancy Thayer and the monoprint diptych on the right side of the wall is by Laura Moriarty.
The combination of encaustic medium with oil sticks has been instrumental in these new works, with a fresh awareness and reminder to use clean, bold color. I have been reviewing the R&F color chart below to make sure I have stimulating color combinations. Seeing color on a chart like this is helpful to me when planning a new painting.
Color and abstraction makes sense to me right now, in a world filled with chaos and turmoil. Kind of ironic, but art has always been the one place where everything always makes sense.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Chicago Art & Design Show at Navy Pier
Art festival season will be starting a few months earlier as I am getting ready to exhibit April 8-9 at Navy Pier. Fortunately, this is an indoor show and my usual stress about weather conditions is not an issue. My booth setup will be altered with the addition of electricity and track lighting (lighting always enhances presentation), and I am excited to be demonstrating encaustic painting techniques during the weekend show.
Buddha wall from last summer:
Highlighted in my booth will be 50 paintings of Buddha, viewing this series as a cohesive body of work is key. The photo below featured 20 paintings from the series last summer, and only filled one side of my booth. I plan on presenting all 50 pieces on the two back walls in my booth, keeping this series separate from miniatures and cityscapes. Making sense visually is always a challenge, particularly when I have distinct bodies of different work.
Buddha wall from last summer:
Large cityscape paintings will hang on the outer wall (fortunately I have a corner aisle and can utilize both sides of the panels), and the miniatures will be on free standing panels toward the front of my booth display, separate from the back walls. I am sharing a few samples of work below.
"Approaching Michigan Avenue"
30" x 30"
"LaSalle Street"
40" x 30"
"Wrigley Field"
3.5" x 2.5" triptych, 12" x 28" shadowbox frame
"The Chicago Theater"
2.5" x 3.5", 10" x 10" shadowbox frame
The show is free and open to the public. For more information visit the Amdur Productions website link below.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
My newest book: Buddha
paintings and meditations
paintings and meditations
"Buddha, paintings and meditations" is a catalog of eighty mixed media encaustic paintings depicting the Buddha. Each painting is high resolution, full page color, and unique.
"For me, the Buddha represents both the teacher and the student. Each painting was a lesson and exploration as I embraced various encaustic techniques, always trusting the process. I began to realize that although we appear different on the exterior, within one's self we possess the same human potential."
Groupings of similar Buddha silhouettes are preceded with an explanation or meditation that led to the creative processes. This art book features a collection of mixed media encaustic paintings inspired by Buddhist thinking.
"For me, the Buddha represents both the teacher and the student. Each painting was a lesson and exploration as I embraced various encaustic techniques, always trusting the process. I began to realize that although we appear different on the exterior, within one's self we possess the same human potential."
Groupings of similar Buddha silhouettes are preceded with an explanation or meditation that led to the creative processes. This art book features a collection of mixed media encaustic paintings inspired by Buddhist thinking.
Magcloud version -
Amazon version -
It's been an educational journey, learning about self publishing and all the options available on the internet these days. Different publishing websites require different files, and until I had hard copies in hand I wasn't sure which of these websites offered the best quality paper, or if font sizes were in sync with page sizes, or if my book cover was attention grabbing, or if..... the list went on and on! Most importantly, I questioned if photographed encaustic paintings translated successfully onto paper.
I don't feel art books are meant to be published as e-books. Maybe I am a bit old fashioned but when I want to see a colorful image I also want to be able to touch the page or better yet, see it in person. This meant I had to upload and order printed copies of the book from every website I used.
The best two versions I have found to date are Amazon and Magcloud. Both of these websites average the same production and shipping costs, both offer copies on demand, although Amazon does produce books much quicker. The quality of the book was very similar from both websites, but if you hold copies side by side the Magcloud version feels slightly heavier, almost silkier (and I thought a better quality).
The book is currently available on both websites and can be seen in links below.
Saturday, February 11, 2017
Re-working Old Paintings (and making them new)
Which painting is the revision?
It can be a scary decision to go back into a painting that felt finished and successful at one point... and as time goes by our vision and skills develop and change. Hopefully we become more adept.
The paintings on the left are the updated versions. Each of these has been reworked using shellac burn techniques. Wisteria (top row) incorporates organic texture with the addition of white, pink, and yellow ochre shellac burn plus I toned down the flower blooms. I also added twigs with wax medium to build up the canopy, creating lots of three dimensional textures.
The Red Barn (bottom row) has become a more dramatic and fluid piece, the addition of a shellac burn loosened up what felt like a very tight, controlled perspective of the vineyard. I have heard mixed reviews on the changes I made to this piece but I am much happier since revising and I have to trust myself!
In addition to reworking older paintings, teaching weekly classes, and preparing for upcoming exhibitions, I just completed an art book featuring the Face of Buddha series. You can preview and/or purchase the book here - Buddha, paintings and meditations
This is my second art book and allows me to share the full impact of an entire series of work. My first book, A Year of the Full Moon, can be previewed and/or purchased here - A Year of the Full Moon
Art is my safe, happy place. During times of turmoil and political unrest, the art world keeps me centered, stimulated, focused, and calm.
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Evolution of a Creative Process
It's funny to me, that I have paintings from several years ago and at the time I thought they were completed, satisfying art works. A few years go by, and what was once successful now looks incomplete or unsuccessful. Maybe this is typical of an artist as we are always evolving.
Because the process of creating is just as important to me as the end result I can go back and re-work a painting without being inhibited or worried about "what if I ruin it". I often say in the classes I teach that the worst thing that can happen to your painting by trying something new is you ruin it, but you will learn from the process, and you can always paint another.
The Buddha paintings are part of an ongoing series (Buddha) and a reminder to me to be kind, tolerant, and open (to change and differences). Below, the paintings on the left are the new "improved" versions. I have incorporated a heavier use of oil sticks, they fuse beautifully into wax medium and add a softness to the bold colors I had originally chosen for the bright red and bright green faces.
Because the process of creating is just as important to me as the end result I can go back and re-work a painting without being inhibited or worried about "what if I ruin it". I often say in the classes I teach that the worst thing that can happen to your painting by trying something new is you ruin it, but you will learn from the process, and you can always paint another.
The Buddha paintings are part of an ongoing series (Buddha) and a reminder to me to be kind, tolerant, and open (to change and differences). Below, the paintings on the left are the new "improved" versions. I have incorporated a heavier use of oil sticks, they fuse beautifully into wax medium and add a softness to the bold colors I had originally chosen for the bright red and bright green faces.
Classes resumed in January and one of my weekly demonstrations was the use of combining powder pigment with shellac, then fused with a torch into encaustic medium, creating organic textures. I love the color intertwined randomly to form various patterns. There is a combination of control and lack of control.
I completed the piece below without thinking about anything but color and pattern, and as I had time to look at the end result I realized it was very similar to a watercolor painting I had completed over ten years ago! The first piece below is a demo from last week in class, the painting below it is from A Year of the Full Moon.
It made me smile to think even though I have immersed myself with the encaustic medium for the past ten years, the core of what inspires me hasn't change. I have learned and continue to learn about the wonders of painting with beeswax (encaustic) and I continue to experiment with new techniques and materials, but the true vision, sensibility, and style of my work is the same as the years I spent engaged with impressionistic watercolor techniques. It feels to me like I have gone full circle and my love for impressionism shines through.
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On July 3, twenty Korea and Vietnam Combat Veterans selected by Platte Rivers Veterans Fly Fishing embarked from PVREA headquarters on The Honor Float- an all-inclusive, five-star fishing adventure hosted by the Soaring Eagle Lodge below Navajo Dam in New Mexico. The three nights, four days, drift boat fly fishing experience on world class trout water was an all-expense paid event for the participants. The group of veterans that participated in this year's event consisted of one Korea Conflict Combat Veteran and nineteen Vietnam Conflict Combat Veterans.
Platte Rivers Veterans Fly Fishing is a non-profit organization lead by volunteers to provide fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying and rod building classes for veterans from all branches of the military. One of PVREA's team members, Ken McCoy, has been volunteering for three years and this year is serving on the board of directors. He explained his reason for getting involved with the organization is because he is a patriot and he likes sharing his passion for fly fishing.
During the planning for The Honor Float, Ken suggested the PVREA headquarters as the meeting place to depart. The Loveland Fire Department with a firetruck and PVREA with two bucket trucks flew American flags over the road for the veterans and boat guides to drive under on their way out. PVREA employees waved flags and cheered as the group departed to begin their trek.
In almost every county the group passed through, sheriff departments escorted the brigade. When they got to Pagosa Springs, they were welcomed by another flag hanging over the highway and fire fighters, sheriffs, American Legion members and volunteers lining the road, saluting the men giving them the honor they deserve.
While on the fishing adventure, one of the veterans, Clyde Brewer, said, "As Vietnam Vets, we just don't expect this kind of VIP treatment. When I came home from my tour, soldiers were looked down upon because of the poor press the war received. It feels really good being recognized now for our efforts from way back then."
While on the trip, fishing unified the men. Everyone caught at least one fish by 1pm the first day on the river. They spoke some about their experiences serving in the military, but mostly reminisced and shared fishing stories they remembered from growing up.
Veteran Fred Ramaker said. "Words can't express the gratitude I have felt during this trip. Everything Platter Rivers has done and planned is overwhelming." On the drive back to Colorado, Ken asked Fred what his favorite part of the trip was. With a grin he replied, "Fighting that 19-inch rainbow on the river. Other than that, I increased my circle of fishing friends by 25 people."

subset: commoncrawl


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So it happened, I am fifty now! That's at least what's written in my passport. In my head, I am still 16. And I know that's the same for pretty much everybody. Even my 72 year old mum just recently admitted that.
It is indeed a milestone in everyone's life and with this writing; I want to share my feelings and thoughts about it. Telling what I do to stay mentally and physically in a good mood and shape. As well as motivate younger folks not to fear to aging, rather embrace it. And of course this story is also for my fellow age readers. So that they may get motivated to do what they ever wanted to do in life but never dared. Just recently I read an article about an experiment where it was proved that aging literally is – as so much other things in life – close related to your mind set.
Honestly, I don't want to be twenty or thirty or forty anymore. I pretty much enjoyed all these different phases of my life and now it feels more as if I worship all the experiences and things I went through. Looking back and laughing about some of my actions and mistakes I surely have made. And I only can recommend to doing the same. In the end, life is a journey and we're all here to go eventually. So it's totally up to you what your inspirations are or have been. Whether you felt the urge to accomplish or build something sustainable, or may it never appeared important to you. It all doesn't matter much because the years move on anyways.
What matters though is to stay positive and true to yourself.
I always say, that I never regret a decision I've ever made. Because if I thought (and felt) it was right at the time, why would I question it later on? In my experience trusting your instincts and following your heart (or guts) is most rewarding in every sense.
Ok, some of you will frown and think, 'Yeah but sometimes in life, you cannot do what you want because of circumstances'. Honestly, for me, this is just an excuse and the fear to follow your inner voice. And basically this is it! Life really isn't that difficult. It's us humans that make it difficult. These days the majority of humans are confused, denatured and just lost. Many pursue doubtable goals and getting depressed of aging and when life hasn't unfold as they wished! No wonder for me if you never dared to follow your gut feeling! See, every human is just a tiny cell on the planet and like every other species we too be subject to the cycle of life. And no matter how hard scientists try they simply cannot change that. Nobody ever stayed forever. No matter how good looking, famous, super rich, highly intelligent or sexy people are or have been! Accept that and lots of 'so called' important things lose their importance.
Another vital rule for me is 'not taking myself too serious'. Everyone is replaceable and we're just here to enjoy and experience what we choose to. I truly believe that and for me, it worked all my life. All the things I did, I did with great motivation. All the decisions I ever took and which brought me into trouble (and I mean serious trouble) have just been experiences to let me grow and made me the person I am today. Building up character and become a mature individual doesn't come from sitting on the couch all day watching soap operas or – even worse – are cling to a device known as mobile phone! One has to go out and experience all what life has to offer. All in all, this is what makes life a journey and it's a very personal journey for each of us. Never forget the most important relationship we all have is to oneself, your feelings and thoughts and of course your body. Our 'vehicle or car' so to say that enables each of us to do all the things we want. A body which is more than 80% build from water and dissolves back into nature after dead. We are all made from natural materials. I see it like that; my body is a little earth, my hair is the woods of the planet, my veins and blood vessels are the rivers. A little cell on the planet I'm literally made of. All living creatures, all things we eat, produce and use are made from materials the planet provides us with. And in that sense, I always knew from young age on that I've to take care of my 'car'.
But if you're in your twenties you don't bother, exploring is on the map. Everything that is out there has a certain attraction, you literally 'spread your wings and fly away' like a young eagle. Next to school, studies and earning money I only and exclusively had party and having sex on my mind. Turning thirty people usually do get a bit more 'serious'. Conditioned by heritage and influenced through surroundings everyone starts thinking 'what do I do with my life' and 'what direction do I may want to go'. I never asked myself this question, more so followed my feeling of what I want to explore and learn next. Sure, again you can say 'but not all of us can choose freely' and again my answer is 'nope, that's not true'. Why? Because there are two things in life everyone chooses freely what to do with. One is your money and the other is your time! Even if you live in circumstances where your free will is limited, you still can choose what to think and find ways to follow your inner voice. But then, we all live in societies that manipulate each thought and every action we do. Breaking free from that is the first and hardest 'exercise'. Once done you a step closer to living the life that makes you happy and as a result keeps you vibrant and healthy.
So most of my life I followed my inner voice. And by not being born rich I always had to find a way – my way – to make things happen. As example, I always wanted to travel, learning about other nations and how they live. To be able doing that I switched profession from office management to hospitality and so I could travel the world and stay independent. That changed my perspective and I broke free from what I'd learned from my parents. I started that process in my late twenties. Before that I worked the 'rat race', was married and just stepped into the footsteps of my parents. When I look around I now see that there're plenty of people doing the same. Avoiding their inner voice and dreams because of uncertainty, demotivating family and friends and what else holds them back from living their life and not get lived by society! Over the years the process of 'freeing my mind' accumulated. Then, three years back, I dreamed about writing "Die Abenteuer der kleinen Rosalinda" and to follow that dream I gave up all my possessions, started a life as a traveling writer. A year into that my savings had been shrinking significantly and so I started house sitting, what I do up until today.
However, just a few months away from turning fifty and everybody around me suggested that I've to do a party. Well, first I agreed because it's such a significant birthday. Then I got another idea. I booked a week vacation on the wonderful island of Rarotonga in September. My own fifties birthday present so to say. During my time there I thought about that BBQ. Do I really feel for having a party that day? And while chilling on the beach I suddenly thought 'well, it's maybe nice to have all the lovely New Zealand friends around me, but who is going to clean up the mess after'? Yep, that would be me because as a normal person I don't have cleaners or butlers. And another feeling – I couldn't get a grip on first – emerged from inside. When back in New Zealand that feeling has settled and it just told me, that I wanted to be on my very own that day. Waking up and doing whatever comes to my mind.
Now I've to admit that this is what I have been doing all previous birthdays as well. I never worked on my birthday, always managed to have a day off or – if the company refused – I'd called in sick. Because this is my day, the day I came here and never ever I going to spend that special day working. And while I usually had parties and people around me, this time I wanted to be by myself. Let's see who is calling and does remember my birthday.
Good idea and a day before my birthday with a big smile, I bought flowers and my favourite single malt whiskey. The plan was that every call, message or email I receive that day, I'll drink a glass of whiskey. So I started my 'milestone birthday' with a generous breakfast. Then around 11 am the first calls from my pals in New Zealand dropped in. 'That early I thought', but ok I use to do what I say and so I poured in my first glass and the party started. By noon the bottle had emptied by a third and I had to mix the whiskey with lemon soda in order to not get totally wasted early into the day. Because me being in New Zealand I assumed – or knew – that all the birthday greetings from my European pals and family will start in the evening. And so it was. By the end of the day I had almost finished the whole bottle! Honestly, the last glasses I gulped in with a bit of resentment. You know having that frowning forehead and mouth angle down face when swallow. Because when you're fifty you pretty much know what you are capable of and I usually be done after half a bottle. Generally spoken this wisdom to 'assess what you can take on' is valid for most things. And if you don't know I guess you missed out trying (and experiencing) your limits when younger.
Anyway, I really had a lot of fun being on my own, sitting outside in the sun, drinking and reflecting on my life so far. The most present feeling what manifested that day was that I've come so far, have been through a lot of trouble and drama (as most of us fiftyish folks have), so there's not much what can mess up my day anymore. What a great feeling I can tell. Knowing that from now on I only do what I like because time is limited and counting back. Years passing by faster and with the wisdom of a fifty-year-old, I know that after a low tide there's a high tide coming.
People tend to say 'you are half way' which I think isn't quite right. Ok, we humans getting older these days, but most of us won't reach one hundred. I have a different approach. I count backward. That's how it feels for me. Up until now and like most of us I guess, I've counted all my life up to 18, then 25, 30, 40 and so on. Now it's the other way around. I've made it to fifty and now I am calculating 'maybe another twenty – longest thirty – years' of vitality and fun before my body will degenerate and mobility will decrease.
Certainly, you change when turning fifty though. For instance, before fifty it's important to have a great, sexy body and always looking at your best. Now I keep on moving to maintain and support my 'car' only that I am much gentle. If I don't feel going for a run, I do yoga instead. Also, there's a change in activity, I always have been out and about, never said no to any action or whatever 'fun' came along. Now I prefer to stay home and invite friends instead or just do a 'me, myself and I party' once in a while. No doubt that I want to stay healthy and vibrant as long as possible. No doubt that I still can party all night, drinking, smoking and having a one night stand as highlight at the end. The difference now is that afterwards my 'car' needs much longer to recover and that means plenty of chilling on the couch for the next few days (yes, that's right days not just one day!). Body and mind is a synergy and so it's is vital to listen to your body and all its signals as well. There're lots of books out there they may can support you with that. I strongly believe in that connection 'body talks to you'. We just have to listen! Also I believe that 'food is medicine' and that we humans are one of the less species that are capable of digesting almost every food. And that is an advantage in the run to survive compared to other species. I never have been a vegetarian because I learned in school that there are certain amino-acids we humans need that are only provided by meat. I listen to my body. Particularly since I am living a traveling lifestyle I experienced that my food habits change. And then there's a slower working metabolic system once you hit fifty. Moderation now is the key for me to stay healthy and support my 'car'. I know that part of our experience here is to taste, eat, smell and feel all the delicious food we prepare and the planet provides us with. And by not restricting me that much anymore, all feels much more in balance.
I embrace all of this. It's the balance between indulging and having fun. When people meet me in real life they never guess my age right. So I must do something right, don't I? When asked how old I am, I proudly say fifty. I don't understand when people answer 'you really look good for your age'. What does it say? Only that there's a widespread opinion (or conditioning?) on how people of a certain age have to look I guess. Generally, I think it is much simpler. You look good, or you don't! And from what I experience it's not only about your physical appearance. Sure the skin and the whole body show signs of ageing. Like an old tree, we all have scars and the posture shows how life has been so far for that particular individual, right?
I feel it's necessary to say that it's that kind of 'inner glow', that 'pure energy' what keeps an 'old lady' like me still looking interesting and vibrant. Seriously, I keep my energy 'pure'. That means I clean out any energy or vibration I've caught up when outside or while talking to another person. Every time you talk to or touch another individual (animals and nature as well) you exchange and mix your energy field. So be aware of that and clean your energy often. If you do you will be able to always stay true to yourself by listening to your very intimate feelings and inner guidance.
The soul reflects through the eyes, character expresses through the body (and how you move) and the heart is displayed by the words you speak.
Age is just a number invented by humans to get a grip on things. The saying 'young at heart' for me just reflects that. Because we are all 'young at heart' for the time we visit the planet. Think about that, the planet still will be here if we are all long gone. So enjoy each and every day and keep on laughing till the day you leave. By the way, laughing prevents wrinkles on your face and I am the living proof!
Related post(s): Rarotonga 'Pearl of the Cook Islands' – Smartest species on planet earth! –
If the way is the goal – Go Girl – Perception – Die Abenteuer der kleinen Rosalinda – Professional house- and pet sitting
Related video on youtube: Keep on moving 00 (warm up) – Keep on moving 01 (cardio) – Keep on moving 02 (muscle strenghtening) – Keep on moving 03 (cool down) – Rarotonga part 1 – Rarotonga part 2 (history & culture) – Rarotonga part 3 – Rarotonga part 4 (a long way home) – Rosalinda


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Sure you may have a Jeep or another SUV with knobby tires and a bit of ground clearance. But before you drive off-road, it's good to know what kind of trail you'll be driving. Just because your vehicle has four-wheel drive doesn't mean you'll know what to do with it. You don't want to scrape dents into the doors or break an axle.
Unfortunately, there's no national trail rating system. But like ski trails that rate difficulty from bunny hops to black diamond, many trail systems in local, state, and national parks have been rated. To find out more go online to off-road groups for your vehicle or your region.
Some trail rating systems have only three levels: easy, medium and difficult. Others are rated on a scale of 1-10. Some trail ratings are based on the toughest section of the trail, but there may be bypass if you don't want to tackle the biggest rocks or the steepest hill.
Also, trails may be rated differently by those who drive for sightseeing and travel purposes compared to those who love to tackle obstacles and don't care as much about the journey. The obstacle crawlers love to be stymied by big rocks and deep crevices and aren't as worried about vehicle damage.
In the absence of a national system, the folks at Jeep have developed a rating system for their annual Jamboree events. It's a good rule of thumb to see what you can expect.
Jeep Jamboree Trail Ratings
Rating 1-2
At this level, obstacles and terrain are relatively easy to navigate for just about any stock vehicle. In good weather conditions some trails may not require continual use of four-wheel drive (4WD).
Rating 3-5
Moderately demanding and a challenge for novice drivers. Obstacles may include mud holes, boulders, and streams. Requires 4WD with low-range gearing.
Rating 6-7
Demanding. Challenge for most skill levels. Mud holes get deeper, boulders get larger and climbs get steeper. This level requires 4WD with low range gear capability.
Rating 8-9
Very demanding. The likelihood of getting stuck is high. Mud holes may be deep and rock climbing is more arduous. Lifts and lockers are helpful. Requires 4WD with low-range gearing.
Rating 10
Extremely demanding. Reserved for the toughest off-road trip in the U.S.A. — the Rubicon Trail. Requires 4WD with low range gearing. (Not recommended for Jeep Patriot, Compass, Liberty, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Commander or similar vehicles.)
If you want to travel tougher trails, the first place to upgrade is your tires. Get some all-terrain tires or mud terrain tires. Look for tires with deep treads and tough sidewalls. Check with a knowledgeable tire shop about the largest diameter tire your vehicle can accommodate. Bigger tires are better for tackling those tasty trails. Most serious off-roaders upgrade to 33-inch or even 35-inch options.
Don't take a trail blindly. Ideally, you'll tackle a trail with at least one other vehicle. Find someone who's done the path before and can give you some guidance on what to expect. At least use your pal Google to find some credible information on the trail before you go.
Jeep Jamboree Trail Ratings: https://jeepjamboreeusa.com/trail-ratings
Trail Rating info: https://forums.off-road.com/jeep-short-wheelbase/3755-please-explain-trail-ratings.html
Vehicle upgrade info: https://jalopnik.com/this-is-what-makes-a-vehicle-unstoppable-off-road-512501606


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Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are prepared for 'crazy' title-race finale
Pep Guardiola has admitted Manchester City could be in store for a "crazy" finale on Sunday that evokes memories of the club's dramatic, heart-stopping first Premier League title success seven years ago.
But the City manager has urged his players to hold their nerve and keep calm if they do run into trouble against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.
City famously trailed 2-1 to Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the 2011/12 season only to score twice in stoppage time through Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero to win 3-2 and clinch the title on goal difference from Manchester United.
Guardiola is hoping it will be a more straight-forward affair against Brighton as City bid to win a fourth title in eight seasons and extend Liverpool's wait for the championship to a 30th year - but recognises his players, young and old, may have to improvise if they hit problems.
"We must play well and be strong mentally, knowing it will be tough - it's how we react even if we have bad moments," Guardiola said. "We have to focus on the game - how we want to play - and not worry too much [about the rest].
"If the game is running into problems, be calm and think about what you have to do. You may have to go crazy in the last five, 10, 15 minutes but before that we have a plan and must follow the plan to win the game - that's what we have done all season.
"Experience [of winning title] is important but it's only one [factor]. The most incredible moment in the history of this club was when Sergio scored that goal and, of course, they [Aguero, Vincent Kompany, David Silva] are important players but everyone has to contribute in the last game."
Guardiola said he had been working on two gameplans with his players this week - one in the event Brighton opt to park the bus and another should Chris Hughton's side, now safe for another season, adopted a more attacking approach. Kevin De Bruyne has trained for the past two days and, according to Guardiola, could be involved following a hamstring injury but fellow midfielder, Fernandinho, is unavailable.
"We've talk about the two options - if they play like they did recently so defensively, using set pieces, using long balls, using the counter-attack with [Anthony] Knockaert and [Solly] March, the build up with the two central defenders who are so good," said the City manager, who claimed he would be paying little attention to events at Anfield. "But maybe at home in the last game they decide to go more forward but we have talked about what we can expect and how we handle both situations."


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A decorative round and oblong collection of stones, Decorative River Rock is most often used for landscaping purposes such as ponds, flowerbeds, dry river beds, under decks, along pathways, and more. At Mulch and Stone, we offer Decorative River Rock in large and small sizes, with delivery available for the Northern Virginia area. Order online today for great prices!
Just input the length, width and depth – in the calculator and it will give you the exact amount of product you will need! It's THAT easy!


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pound of flesh(redirected from pay someone a pound of flesh)
pound of flesh
A debt or punishment, especially a cruel or unreasonable one, that is harshly insisted upon. An allusion to Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, in which the moneylender Shylock demands he be paid the pound of flesh promised as collateral for a loan. The victim of the incident, while only sustaining superficial injuries, is demanding his pound of flesh from the nightclub owner following the court ruling. Be very careful about taking out loans that you can't repay right away, or you will have collectors coming after you for a pound of flesh.
*pound of flesh
Fig. a payment or punishment that involves suffering and sacrifice on the part of the person being punished. (*Typically: give someone ~; owe someone ~; pay someone ~; take ~.) He wants revenge. He won't be satisfied until he takes his pound of flesh.
pound of flesh
A debt whose payment is harshly insisted on, as in The other members of the cartel all want their pound of flesh from Brazil. This expression alludes to the scene in Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice (4:1) where the moneylender Shylock demands the pound of flesh promised him in payment for a loan, and Portia responds that he may have it but without an ounce of blood (since blood was not promised). [c. 1600]
your pound of flesh
If someone demands their pound of flesh, they insist on getting something they have a right to, even though they might not need it and it will cause problems for the people they are getting it from. Banks are quick to demand their pound of flesh from the small businessman who goes even slightly into debt. She has appeared on breakfast television to offer support (in exchange for heaven knows what pound of flesh from her husband). Note: This expression comes from Shakespeare's play `The Merchant of Venice' (Act 4, Scene 1). Shylock is owed money by Antonio, and attempts to carry out an agreement which allows him to cut off a pound of Antonio's flesh.
your pound of fleshan amount you are legally entitled to, but which it is morally offensive to demand.
The allusion here is to Shylock's bond with the merchant Antonio in Shakespeare 's The Merchant of Venice and to the former's insistence that he should receive it, even at the cost of Antonio's life.
(have, demand, claim, etc.) your pound of ˈflesh(take, demand, etc.) the full amount that somebody owes you, even if this will cause them trouble or suffering: They want their pound of flesh; they want every penny we owe them by next Monday. ♢ I didn't realize working here was going to be such hard work. They really demand their pound of flesh, don't they?This phrase comes from Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice, in which the moneylender Shylock demanded a pound of flesh from Antonio's body if he could not pay back the money he borrowed.
pound of flesh, a
One's exact dues; the precise amount owed, no matter what. The term comes from the famous trial scene of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice (4.1), in which the moneylender Shylock demands that the pound of flesh that was promised him in payment for lending Antonio money be handed over. He is, of course, foiled by Portia, who says he may have his pound of flesh but it may not include an ounce of blood (since no blood is due him). Ever since, this expression has been used as a metaphor for exacting payment, usually in a vengeful way.


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Should the State Pay For Pothole Damage?
Improved suspension and tire technology allows us to fit increasingly bigger wheels on our cars. The average wheel size in the 1960's was 14-inches, but today, 19-inch wheels and bigger seem to be the standard, especially for Luxury and Sports cars. Couple an expensive, large alloy wheel with a low-profile tire, and you've got an expensive repair bill if you fall victim to one of the Northeast's millions of potholes. But should the state have to pay that bill for you?
In the case of Michigan in 2009, the state only said "yes" once, to Julio Zacks. One guy, and a 1992 Camry (on factory 15s). The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Zacks is the only person to receive any financial reimbursement from the state of Michigan last year, and the amount reimbursed ($999.99) doesn't even cover the whole repair cost. In fact, documents obtained by the Freep show that between 2005 and 2009, Michigan only paid out 18 claims, for a total of $7,700. Considering Michigan's horrible road conditions and their 9,700 miles of pavement, We'd bet a bunch of people got screwed.
This author has personal experience in this area, as his 2006 MINI Cooper JCW came with factory 18-inch wheels (a $3,500 option), all four of which became bent over the next few years. Unfortunately (very unfortunately) the $500 "Wheel and Tire Warranty" was deemed to only apply if the wheel ceased to hold air – which they miraculously did not. By the time the fourth one bent, on a heavily trafficked area on I-95 South near the CT/NY border, it was time for action. In New York, like in Zach's State of Michigan (and many other states), you have to prove that the state knew about the pothole, and didn't repair it, for at least 30 days. A report was filed on the 28th day the State of NY fixed the pothole – leaving this distraught owner to shell out $557 for a replacement wheel and tire – for the fourth time.
Julio Zacks, we bow to you.
Source: [Detroit Free Press]


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ψ This evening I felt the need to take my laptop and write down, talk with you guys about something that I've been studying and God put on my heart.
That is – the importance of confessing sins.
ψ This past week I went through different circumstances in which I understood the strong necessity of confessing sins to one another. Not only that, but I saw how important it is for us to be honest in confessing/admitting that we constantly deal with the ugliness of sin in our life. That we are in an on-going battle. But something, better said, someone is fighting with us.
ψ It is crucial for us to be honest about our real struggle with sin not only with our Christian friends but also with our non-Christian friends. How important it is to tell them how we used to fight alone. How we were struggling before knowing Jesus. Now we know and we live knowing that He conquered sin and death, and because of that we are free. It is not a shame to admit in front of others your desperate need of Christ as you continue to fight sin in your life.
ψ The other day I was talking with a lady that does not have a personal relationship with God and her mouth dropped when I confessed to her that I struggle with something that she is also struggling at the present moment. She knew that I am Christian and she said that she was not expecting to hear that. She was thinking that I am "perfect". And we all know that we are far away from that! We are Christians, but we are still sinners (the difference is that we are repentant sinners who turn to Christ as our only hope). And people are entitled to think about us that we do not sin when we do not open our mouths. We need to say how we are like beggars, struggling and not being satisfied with anything unless we find Jesus who feeds us till we are satisfied.
ψ Many times we want others to see us spotless. We want to portray the image of perfect man/women. We want to be seen as Christians that go to church and are always happy and not dealing with any problem. The truth is that we all struggle with sin: Christians and non-Christians. The second category, though, has a way, the only way to deal with it. To lay our sins at Christ's nailed feet, asking for forgiveness, repenting and trusting in the saving power of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Only after that has happened, you realize how much you are loved and you start loving deeply.
ψ In other words, let them see the clouds so they will understand why you love the Sun.
"We love Him, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19
ψ I realized, as Tim Chester says in the "Soul Songs" that because we do not confess our sins to one another "We become communities of law rather than communities of grace. The world thinks we are self-righteous and Christians think they must struggle alone."
ψ So, instead of just being honest in our churches, we prefer to pretend. To pretend that everything is fine in our personal life. To reply short and to lie to questions like "How are you?" We claim to be doing fine, but we are far away from feeling that way. We struggle with sin and we need the other members of the body to pray for us.
ψ By pretending that everything is "ok" we are not being honest. And this leads us to grow apart from each other. Confess you sins first to God, then be honest with the people of God that form the church. Be honest with the people that don't know were you were and who you are now because of Jesus. I want to encourage you by writing down this precious reminders from the book of 1 John.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9
"If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." 1 John 2:1-2
ψ Also, in the book of James we find it written: "Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." James 5:16
ψ Remember always that He is faithful and He will do what He promised. And then, you will be able to sing like David: "Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!" Psalm 32:11
Chester, Tim. Soul songs. The Good Book Company, 1991.


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Future Art Print
After I created this artwork, I spray-painted a big mural based on the original image on the carpark wall of My Brighton Hotel for their Faces project.
Size: A2 (420 x 594mm) 16,5 x 23.4″
High quality Giclée printed on a beautiful heavy paper stock.
Edition of 50.
Each limited edition print has a white border and is signed and numbered on the front in pencil by Manic Minotaur.
Shipped in a cardboard tube.
Limited edition prints are sent recorded delivery and will require a signature on arrival.
Frame not included.


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As a cornerback for the New Orleans Saints where he spots the number 23 jersey, Marshon Lattimore is admired for his talent and engaging personality. Even though the professional American football player only joined the NFL in 2017, he has already established himself as one of the top defensive players in the league.
Lattimore is definitely one rising star to watch out for. Find out more about him here including his bio, body stats, brother, family facts, etc.
Age, Early Life, and Rise to Fame
Marshon Demond Lattimore was born on the 20th of May 1996 in Cleveland, Ohio. He had his high school education at Glenville High School Cleveland where he played football both in an offensive position (wide receiver) and defensive position (cornerback). In his senior year, he caught 40 receptions for 911 yards and made 16 touchdowns as he helped his school to qualify for the division 11 Ohio Championship game. In recognition of his personal exploits, he was named the defensive player of the year in the division and Associated Press also named him as a first team All-State.
Unsurprisingly, Marshon Lattimore was courted by several colleges but he settled for Ohio State University where he spent three years, 2014 to 2016. At Ohio State, Lattimore's career was hampered by a redshirt in his first year and a hamstring injury in his second year. He, however, got his opportunity to shine in his third year and the Cleveland native did not disappoint. He started all games that year (2016 season) and posted 41 tackles (30 solos), one stop for loss, four interceptions, and 13 passes defended. His strong performance was enough to catch the attention of the NFL, despite the fact that he only had one full season, and he was rated the number 1 cornerback in the draft by ESPN, Sports Illustrated, etc.
NFL Career
Marshon Lattimore lived up to predictions and was picked in the very first round of the 2017 draft by the New Orleans Saints. He was the 11th overall pick of that year and the Saints signed him to a four-year contract worth $15,350,000. Even though he was just a rookie, the Saints gave him ample playing opportunities and he rewarded their faith in him. In a total of 13 games for the Saints (all of which he started), he made 53 tackles (44 solos), one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, five interceptions for 85 yards, and 18 passes defended as the Saints finished first in their division and qualified for the playoffs.
Lattimore recorded his first career interception off a pass by Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford in week 6 of his rookie season. As a testament to his amazing individual performances, he was elected to the 2018 Pro Bowl and was unanimously named the NFL defensive rookie of the year by Associated Press, ESPN.com, Sports Illustrated, and PFWA. He was also named the NFL defensive rookie of the month on two occasions (October and December 2017), becoming the first player to achieve such a feat twice. The New Orleans star is currently in his sophomore season in the league and is still going stronger and better.
Marshon Lattimore Brother and Family
Marshon Lattimore comes from an athletically gifted family. His mum, Felicia Killebrew had brothers who were football players while his dad, Marland Lattimore was an outstanding quarterback in high school. His dad was so good that he earned a scholarship to Central State University in Ohio. Unfortunately, his career was prematurely ended by a knee injury in his first year. Just like his dad, Lattimore nearly had his own dreams cut short by injury. He suffered a persistent hamstring injury in his freshman year and his sophomore year but was able to recover from it completely and move on with his career.
There is no indication that Lattimore has a brother but if there is one person he regards as a brother, it is Chris Worley who is a linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals. Both Lattimore and Worley grew up playing football together as kids and eventually played at the same high school and the same college.
See Also: Marcus Williams Parents, Height, Weight, Bio, Body Measurements
Height, Weight, and Body Measurements
Marshon Lattimore is exactly 6 feet tall and weighs a modest 193 lb (87.5 kg). His arm length is 31 1/4 inches while his hand size is 8 7/8 inches. Even though he is of average size, he makes up for it with his explosive athleticism and agility. Another thing that he has going for him is his confidence and competitive nature.


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Saturday 22 October, 12 – 5pm & Sunday 23 October, 12 – 4pm
It's time for Dalston's annual 'Halloween Pumpkin Lantern Show'! All shapes and sizes of pumpkins will be waiting to be transformed by children and young people over a marathon weekend of carving. The weekend ends with all the lanterns lit up together in the Garden on Sunday evening. It's a magical experience!
Free pumpkin carving sessions take place:
Saturday 22 October, 12 – 5pm:
Sunday 23 October, 12 – 4pm:
And the pumpkins are lit up for the Halloween Pumpkin Lantern Show:
Sunday 23 October, 6pm – late
Here are some key things you need to know about the Pumpkin Lantern Weekend:
We ask that all lanterns are left at the Garden for the Lantern Show. You are welcome to collect them during the following week over the half-term holiday or why not leave them on display in the Garden for Halloween and show them off to your friends and family?
We provide the pumpkins – you don't need to bring your own. Carving sessions and the lantern show are free, but we depend on donations to cover the costs of pumpkins, so please do come prepared!
All of the pumpkin carving sessions are run by our team of volunteers, who give their time very generously. We can never have too much help for these sessions, so if you can spare a couple of hours to get involved, please email email@example.com
Children under the age of eleven need to be accompanied by an adult.
Our supply of pumpkins is not unlimited and we don't want any children to be disappointed, so please don't come late in case we run out!
The last carving session on Sunday starts at 3.30pm, to allow preparations to begin for the Lantern Show.
The lighting up of all the lanterns begins once the last pumpkin has been carved on Sunday afternoon.
To keep out the cold there will be hot drinks and other Autumn treats from the Garden Café, and 'Latto's Pizzas' fresh from the clay oven. The wood-burning stove will be lit in the Pineapple House and there are plenty of cosy blankets and hot water bottles.
The 'Pumpkin Lantern Show' launches the Garden's annual 'Festival of Light' which runs throughout November and December.


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Best 2019 Ford Territory Exterior Wallpapers
The mesmerizing Best 2019 Ford Territory Exterior Wallpapers picture below, is part of 2019 Ford Territory document which is categorized within Ford, Ford Territory and published at April 28, 2018.
2019 Ford Territory : Best 2019 Ford Territory Exterior Wallpapers
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2019 Ford Territory Design
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|Best 2019 Ford Territory Exterior Wallpapers
|Published Date
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Socioeconomic disadvantage throughout the life course is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases, but traditional risk factors do not fully account for the social gradient. We investigated the interactions between low socioeconomic status (SES) and infection in childhood and adverse cardiometabolic parameters in adulthood.
METHODS: Participants from the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study, a cohort well phenotyped for childhood and adulthood cardiometabolic risk factors and socioeconomic parameters, were linked to lifetime hospitalization data from birth onward available from the Finnish National Hospital Registry. In those with complete data, we investigated relationships between infection-related hospitalization in childhood, SES, and childhood and adult cardiometabolic parameters.
RESULTS: The study cohort consisted of 1015 participants (age range 3–18 years at baseline and 30–45 years at follow-up). In adults who were raised in below-median income families, childhood infection-related hospitalizations (at age 0–5 years) were significantly associated with higher adult BMI (β ± SE comparing those with 0 vs ≥1 hospitalizations 2.4 ± 0.8 kg/m2, P = .008), waist circumference (7.4 ± 2.3 cm, P = .004), and reduced brachial flow–mediated dilatation (−2.7 ± 0.9%, P = .002). No equivalent associations were observed in participants from higher-SES families.
CONCLUSIONS: Infection was associated with worse cardiovascular risk factor profiles only in those from lower-SES families. Childhood infection may contribute to social gradients observed in adult cardiometabolic disease risk factors. These findings suggest reducing childhood infections, especially in socioeconomic disadvantaged children, may reduce the cardiometabolic disease burden in adults.
- cardiovascular disease
- Finnish markkas
- flow-mediated dilatation
- high-density lipoprotein
- hsCRP —
- high-sensitivity C-reactive protein
- International Classification of Diseases
- intima-media thickness
- infection-related hospitalization
- low-density lipoprotein
- socioeconomic status
What's Known on This Subject:
Cardiometabolic and infectious diseases share similar socioeconomic gradients. Acute and chronic infections may alter long-term host immune responses. Early life events may program a maladaptive immune response to vascular injury and contribute to the socioeconomic inequalities in cardiometabolic disease.
What This Study Adds:
Early life infection worsens adult cardiometabolic risk only in people whose socioeconomic position is below the median. Childhood infection may contribute to social gradients observed in adult cardiometabolic disease risk factors and noncommunicable diseases.
Socioeconomic status (SES) is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD, coronary heart, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular disease) and of metabolic disease (obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus).1–3 Lower SES is associated with higher prevalence of traditional risk factors4 and increased cardiometabolic disease prevalence and mortality.5 The mechanisms by which early life and childhood social disadvantage lead to increased adult cardiometabolic diseases are multifactorial and are suggested to include biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors.5 Overall, traditional risk factors do not fully account for the differences in attributable risk.1,6
Increased inflammation throughout the life course is associated with social disadvantage and adverse childhood experiences.7 Chronic inflammation has a central pathogenic role in cardiometabolic diseases.8 Both chronic infections9 and general markers of inflammation10 show a strong social gradient and may contribute to the effect of SES on CVD11 and type 2 diabetes.12 SES alters innate immune13 and cell-mediated immune responses,14 2 examples out of many possible mechanisms by which infection could lead to chronic disease. To date, there are few longitudinal data from well-phenotyped cohorts on the relationships between standardized definitions of childhood infections, SES, and cardiometabolic status in adulthood.
We previously reported that childhood infection-related hospitalizations (IRHs) are associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes in early to middle adulthood.15,16 Here we prospectively investigated the interaction between childhood SES and early life (age 0–5 years) infections on cardiometabolic risk markers in adulthood (age 30–36 years) among 1015 people in the longitudinal Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study.
The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study is an ongoing prospective study of cardiovascular risk factors from childhood to adulthood. The baseline examination was in 1980, when participants were aged 3 to 18 years, with repeated follow-up assessments in 1983, 1986, 2001, and 2007.17 The current sample included 1015 people with entire lifetime hospitalization data extracted from the Finnish national hospitalization database (which commenced in 1969) and who had participated in the 27-year follow-up study in 2007. Baseline risk factors of those retained in follow-up are largely comparable to those of nonparticipants.18 The study complies with the Declaration of Helsinki and has institutional ethics approval. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.
Questionnaire Data
In childhood, questionnaires completed by the parents of the participant were used to obtain data on physical activity, birth weight, prematurity, mother's BMI, family income, parental years of education, fruit and vegetable consumption, and parental smoking. Physical activity was assessed with questions about the frequency and intensity of physical activity, and a physical activity index was calculated based on the variables as previously described.19 There were 2 different kinds of physical activity questionnaires for the younger (3- to 6-year-olds, a parent-completed questionnaire) and older children (9- to 18-year-olds, self-completed questionnaire). The calculated physical activity indices were age standardized to allow comparison across age groups. Annual family income strata at the time of enrollment were determined as follows: category 1, <12 500 Finnish markkas (FIM) (∼5850 euros); category 2, 15 001 to 25 000 FIM; category 3, 25 001 to 35 000 FIM; category 4, 35 001 to 45 000 FIM; category 5, 45 001 to 55 000 FIM; category 6, 55 001 to 75 000 FIM; category 7, 75 001 to 100 000 FIM; category 8, >100 000 FIM. We also analyzed SES by using parental years in education as a measure. In adulthood, questionnaire data were used to gather information on annual income, smoking, diet, and physical activity.
Definition of Infection-Related Hospitalization
IRH was defined as a hospital discharge diagnosis that included ≥1 International Classification of Diseases (ICD) infection-related code as either a primary or secondary code. Hospitalization was defined as an admission that included ≥1 overnight stay. We used both primary and secondary codes to ensure capture of all infections, an approach we and others have used previously.16,20 We selected infection-related ICD codes (ICD versions 9 and 10) a priori, based on a modification of published population-based epidemiologic studies of childhood IRH.15 To investigate possible infection-specific effects, we grouped infection-related codes a priori into clinical diagnostic categories by using a modification of methods described previously.20 Early childhood was defined as birth to 5 years of age, when the infection burden is greatest.21 Data on antibiotic usage in hospital or in the community were not available.
Anthropometric and Clinical Assessment
In all examinations, height and weight, rounded to the nearest 0.5 cm and 0.1 kg, respectively, were measured at all time points via standardized protocols, and BMI was calculated as weight (in kilograms) divided by height (in meters) squared.18 Waist circumference (measured in duplicate at the level of the 12th rib or level with the umbilicus in thin subjects) was measured in adults. Enrollment blood pressure at 3 years of age was measured by ultrasound and at other childhood ages by a mercury sphygmomanometer. A random zero sphygmomanometer was used in adults. The first and fifth Korotkoff sounds were used to define systolic and diastolic blood pressures, which were averaged from 3 measurements. Blood samples were obtained after a 12-hour fast. Standard enzymatic methods were used for serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and plasma glucose. HDL cholesterol was measured after dextran sulfate precipitation, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was calculated with the Friedewald formula. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was measured by an automated analyzer via a latex turbidimetric immunoassay. For hsCRP analyses, childhood serum samples were taken in 1980 and stored at −20°C. These samples were analyzed in 2005. During storage, the samples were not thawed or refrozen.
Ultrasound Imaging
Common carotid and brachial artery ultrasound studies were performed on Sequoia512 ultrasound mainframes (Acuson, Mountain View, CA) with a 13.0-MHz linear array transducer in 2001 and 2007 follow-ups, as previously described.22 The digitally stored scans were manually analyzed by a single observer blinded to subjects' details (M.J.). To assess intraindividual reproducibility of ultrasound measurements, 57 subjects were reexamined 3 months after the initial visit (2.5% random sample).
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
At least 4 measurements of the far wall of the left carotid artery were taken ∼10 mm proximal to the bifurcation to derive mean and maximum carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). The between-visit coefficient of variation of IMT measurements was 6.4%.
Carotid Distensibility
Ultrasound loops of the carotid bifurcation and common carotid artery were acquired and stored in digital format, and the best cardiac cycle was selected for subsequent offline analysis. The carotid diameter was measured at least twice (spatial measurements) in end-diastole and end-systole, respectively. Blood pressure was measured during the ultrasound study with an automated sphygmomanometer (Omron M4; Omron Matsusaka Co, Ltd, Japan). Ultrasound and concomitant brachial blood pressure measurements were used to calculate carotid distensibility with the following formula:where Dd is the diastolic diameter; Ds, the systolic diameter; Ps, systolic blood pressure; and Pd, diastolic blood pressure. The between-visit coefficient of variation was 2.7% for diastolic diameter and 16.3% for distensibility index.
Brachial Flow-Mediated Dilatation
The left brachial artery diameter was measured at rest and during reactive hyperemia. Increased flow was induced by inflation of a pneumatic tourniquet placed around the forearm to a pressure of 250 mm Hg for 4.5 minutes, followed by release. Three measurements of arterial diameter at a fixed distance from an anatomic marker were performed at end-diastole at rest and 40, 60, and 80 seconds after cuff release. The vessel diameters in scans after reactive hyperemia were expressed as the percentage relative to resting scan. The average of 3 measurements at each time point was used to derive the maximum flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) (the greatest value between 40 and 80 seconds after cuff release). The between-visit correlation of variation was 3.2% for brachial diameter and 26.0% for FMD.
Statistical Analyses
Group comparisons were performed with t tests and χ2 tests, as appropriate. To examine whether the association of early child IRHs with adult cardiometabolic outcomes differed by SES, we used logistic regression modeling. Family income, early child IRH, and family income × early child IRH interaction terms were used in these models as explanatory variables. Thereafter, the effects of early child IRH on those outcomes with significant interaction were analyzed with linear regression models adjusted for age, gender, and other childhood risk factors (BMI, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, systolic blood pressure, fruit consumption, physical activity, maternal BMI, and parental smoking) separately among participants with family income below or above the median (Fig 1). In addition, we performed sensitivity analyses by using a lowest quartile as a cutoff point for lower SES and using parental years of education as a socioeconomic measure.
In initial analyses, childhood SES significantly interacted with child IRH before age 5 years in predicting adult BMI. We therefore performed life-course analysis of BMI by using multilevel mixed modeling with maximum likelihood estimation. Although a significant interaction between child IRH and SES was also demonstrated for adult waist circumference and brachial FMD in these analyses, these data were only collected at 2 out of 6 data collection time points and therefore were not considered for life course analyses. BMI trajectories were compared as a function of age for 4 groups: not hospitalized for child infection before 5 years of age and above median family income in childhood, not hospitalized for child infection before 5 years of age and below median family income in childhood, hospitalized for child infection before 5 years of age and above median family income in childhood, and child infection before 5 years of age and below median family income in childhood. All analyses were adjusted for gender and time (a categorical age variable). We fitted interaction terms between the IRH and SES groups and time to compare the trajectory of BMI between groups. These analyses allow the age at which any differences in BMI occur between the groups to be identified. Our models consider correlations between repeated measures on the same participant and allow for missing data. Statistical analyses were performed in SAS 9.3 (SAS Institute, Inc, Cary, NC) or, in the case of the life course models, in Stata 13.1 (Stata Corp, College Station, TX).
Characteristics of the study cohort are shown in Table 1. Rates of early childhood hospitalization with infection did not differ between those of high and low SES (11.6% vs 15.4%, respectively, P = .08). Other childhood comorbidities did not differ significantly between groups (Supplemental Table 3). In childhood, participants with family income below the median had lower HDL cholesterol, less fruit and vegetable consumption, and higher triglycerides levels; their mothers had higher BMI. In adulthood, these participants had lower annual income, vegetable consumption, and physical activity levels and higher BMI, systolic blood pressure, and rates of smoking.
Significant interactions between childhood family income and IRH were observed for adulthood BMI, waist circumference, and brachial FMD (Table 2) but not for carotid IMT or distensibility. In analyses performed separately for participants with family income below or above median level within the cohort, early child IRHs were associated with higher adult BMI (β ± SE comparing those never hospitalized with those with ≥1 hospitalizations, 2.4 ± 0.8 kg/m2, P = .008) (Fig 2) and waist circumference levels (7.4 ± 2.3 cm, P = .004) (Fig 3), independent of age, gender, and other childhood risk factors. This interaction was observed only in participants with lower than median family income. Similarly, there was an inverse association between childhood IRH and reduced brachial FMD only among participants with family income below cohort median level (−2.7 ± 0.9%, P = .002) (Fig 4). Findings were similar in an analysis additionally adjusted for significant possible confounders, including adult BMI in the full cohort, and for birth weight and childhood hsCRP in a subcohort with complete data on these variables (all P values <.005 in analyses in those with family income below median and all P values >.1 in analyses in those with family income above median). In addition, sensitivity analyses using a cutoff point of lowest quartile for family income (Supplemental Figures 6 and 7) or parental years of education as a proxy for SES (Supplemental Figures 8 and 9) gave similar findings to the primary analyses.
We also performed additional analyses taking into account both childhood and adult SES. Among participants with low SES in childhood and high SES in adulthood, those with early child IRHs had significantly higher BMI (28.4 ± 1.2 vs 25.8 ± 0.5 kg/m2, P = .04). In this group there was no difference in FMD (7.9% ± 0.9% vs 8.8% ± 0.4%, P = .64). Among those with low SES in both childhood and adulthood, early child IRHs were associated with decreased brachial FMD (7.0 ± 0.7 vs 10.1 ± 0.3%, P = .002), but a significant difference was not observed in BMI (27.8 ± 1.1 vs 25.4 ± 0.3 kg/m2, P = .12) (Supplemental Table 4)
In Fig 5 life course BMI levels are shown according to early child IRHs and family income in childhood. The most prominent differences became evident at the age of 24 years. At ages 24, 30, and 36 years participants without early child IRHs and high family income had significantly lower BMI than the other 3 groups.
This longitudinal follow-up of Finnish children and adolescents into adulthood suggests that childhood IRHs are a significant predictor of increased BMI, waist circumference, and reduced brachial FMD in adults raised in lower-income families but not in those raised in families with an income above the median. These findings were unchanged in sensitivity analyses using an alternative proxy of SES (duration of parental education) and in comparisons of the lowest SES quartile with the remainder of the population. Differences in cardiometabolic risk become increasingly apparent over the life course; sustained and significant differences in adulthood BMI were evident between groups defined by combined childhood exposures (SES and IRH).
Our data support previous findings related to socioeconomic inequalities in cardiometabolic disease.1,2 The Whitehall II study showed that elevated levels of inflammatory markers account for part of the excess risk of type 2 diabetes associated with (retrospectively assessed) life course socioeconomic disadvantage.12 In the current study, we did not observe an association between childhood IRH, low SES, and adult systemic inflammation.
BMI, waist circumference, and brachial FMD are intermediate cardiometabolic risk phenotypes.23,24 Obesity, particularly in childhood and maintained into adulthood,18 is a well-documented independent risk factor of later CVD.25 Our data show an interaction between childhood infection and intermediate cardiometabolic risk phenotype outcomes only in the context of low childhood SES. Low SES potentiates the effects of cardiovascular stress responses on the progression of carotid atherosclerosis,26 and our results support the view that changes in vascular function, evidenced through brachial FMD, occur before evident vascular structural changes in IMT.15 In additional analyses we demonstrate that vascular changes are unlikely to be mediated by obesity alone, because adjustment for adult BMI did not alter the interaction between childhood infection and brachial FMD significantly.
A plausible explanation for our findings is that there is a significantly better overall risk factor status among high-SES participants, who had better lipid and dietary profiles in childhood, as well as higher vegetable consumption and physical activity levels, lower BMI and systolic blood pressure levels, and lower smoking prevalence in adulthood. We adjusted for these factors and the interaction effect remained, but it is possible that residual confounding factors may still affect the relationship.
The strengths of this study include the completeness of the data and the depth of phenotyping for traditional risk factors throughout the life course. We have standardized and complete statutory data on infection from birth onward for almost 30 years. In the Finnish national database, ICD-based diagnoses are recorded for every hospitalization shortly after discharge by dedicated coders. Consequently, the hospitalization diagnoses will be more reliable and much less prone to bias than retrospective diagnoses from hospital records. Additionally, there are multiple measures of SES during childhood. A significant interactive effect of parental education and IRH suggests that social determinants in addition to relative financial hardship may be involved.27
We have previously shown in an Australian population that childhood hospitalization with infection is associated in a dose–response manner with cardiovascular events in adulthood.28 Although childhood infections, and the associated inflammatory burden, are a potential mechanism through which childhood socioeconomic disadvantage increases cardiometabolic risk, the current study was not designed to investigate causal mechanisms. However, our interpretations can be partially informed by the data. For example, there were no significant differences in the frequency of childhood IRHs between families above and below the median income level. This finding suggests that childhood SES is not a confounding factor in the association between childhood IRH and adult cardiometabolic risk factors. Instead, IRH might lie on a pathophysiological pathway between SES and CVD. Additional investigation is needed to examine the long-term impact of serious childhood infections on clinical cardiovascular events and explore causal pathways for the present findings.
We acknowledge some limitations. Given the young age of the cohort, we can assess only intermediate cardiometabolic phenotypes rather than disease outcomes. However, these phenotypes track from childhood into adulthood, where they are known to be strongly predictive of later disease.29 We are unable to assess whether IRH reflects community or nosocomial infections, although in childhood, infections are largely acquired outside the hospital. Length of hospitalization is also not available from the data. The sample size did not permit meaningful analyses by different clinical groupings of infection. We cannot comment on total infection burden in the cohort; most infections, including those implicated in cardiometabolic diseases, do not usually result in hospitalization. Other data on childhood infections, including primary care, emergency department, and parental data, were not available. In addition, we cannot discount social disadvantage, rather than clinical severity, as a possible contributory factor to the decision to hospitalize some children with infection. Socially disadvantaged children may seek clinical care later, and therefore some infections may be more severe by presentation, necessitating hospitalization.
We are unable to ascribe causation, and it is possible that increased infectious burden represents a poorer overall childhood environment, leading to other adverse exposures that increase future cardiometabolic risk. We should also consider important unmeasured confounders, particularly antibiotic exposures early in life, which may be biologically relevant. There is growing evidence for the role of an altered microbiome in the pathogenesis of obesity in mice and humans.30 Antibiotics can modify the microbiome,31 especially in the context of serious infections that necessitate hospitalization, where use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is common. Detailed prospective studies that capture total infection burden and antibiotic use are needed to address this issue.
We report prospective data showing that early infectious exposures may contribute to social gradients in adult cardiometabolic risk. Replication of these findings in other populations and additional mechanistic studies are warranted to facilitate novel interventions aimed at reducing the growing burden of adult cardiometabolic diseases.
We thank the study participants and their families. We also are grateful to Ville Aalto, MSc, for assistance with data cleaning and initial analysis.
- Accepted March 16, 2016.
- Address correspondence to David P. Burgner, MD, PhD, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne Children's Campus, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. E-mail: david.burgner{at}mcri.edu.au
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: The authors have indicated they have no financial relationships relevant to this article to disclose.
POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The authors have indicated they have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.
FUNDING: This work within the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study has been financially supported by the Academy of Finland; the Social Insurance Institution of Finland; the Kuopio, Tampere, and Turku University Hospital Medical Funds; the Paulo Foundation; the Juho Vainio Foundation; the Paavo Nurmi Foundation; the Finnish Foundation of Cardiovascular Research; the Finnish Cultural Foundation, the Finnish Medical Foundation, the Sigrid Juselius Foundation; Maud Kuistila Foundation; and the Tampere Tuberculosis Foundation, Emil Aaltonen Foundation, and Yrjö Jahnsson Foundation. Drs Liu, Burgner, Sabin, and Magnussen are supported by National Health and Medical Research Council (Canberra, Australia) fellowships and scholarships. Dr Burgner is an Honorary Future Leader Fellow of the National Heart Foundation of Australia. Dr Kivimäki is supported by the Medical Research Council (grant K013351), the Economic and Social Research Council, and NordForsk, the Nordic Council of Ministers (grant 75021). Drs Juonala, Sabin, and Magnussen are supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (Canberra, Australia) (grant 1098369). Research at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute is supported by the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program (Melbourne, Australia). The Heart Research Group at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute is supported by the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) Foundation (Melbourne, Australia).
- Copyright © 2016 by the American Academy of Pediatrics


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You can use metal forming to create a mold for baking little cakes. These pans were developed for baking lots of Twinkies.
The technique for this project came from an Instructable. This showed how to make the pan, but didn't go into the process for producing many of them. It also gave a good recipe for baking the cakes. In a separate session, I experimented with an angel food cake mix, which was not as good as the yellow cake mix indicated in the instructable above. For a baking instruction that does not use any mixes, see Hilah Cooking's version of the project.
When everything was going properly, it took approximately three minutes to make each pan from prepared materials.
There are photos of this project.


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Price: $20.00
Quantity: 1 available
395pp. Original brown cloth. Very good. ***Papers include 'John Murray's Famil Library and the cheapening of books in early 19thC Britain' (Bennett) & 'The Role of Formulas in the dissemination of a Middle English alliterative romance' (Duggan).
Title: Studies in Bibliography. Papers of the Bibliographical Society of the University of Virginia. Volume XXIX.
Categories: Books about books,
Publisher: Charlottesville VA, University Press of Virginia: 1976
Item: 1.00 Item
Seller ID: 24260
Keywords: american literature bibliography books about books english literature literature,


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There's no doubt about it: winter often leads to lack of activity. Earlier sunsets, later sunrises, and colder temperatures aren't exactly inviting circumstances for physical activity. Couple that with the prevalence of cold weather comfort foods, and we have the perfect recipe for a winter slump. True, cuddling up inside may be appealing for a few months, but come spring, people often lack energy, despite a desire to get outside and enjoy themselves. So, how can you overcome your winter slump and get back into the swing of things? Here are a few ways to spark your motivation and make strides toward your new year's health goals:
Reduce Screen Time
We may not realize it, but constant exposure to television, smartphones, tablets, and computers can wreak havoc on our ability to rest. Not only do they keep us up late into the night, they also emit a specific type of light that can prevent us from getting restful sleep. This type of light prevents our bodies from producing the sleep hormone melatonin, affecting our ability to regenerate during the night. To prevent this, try to eliminate screen exposure at least two hours before going to sleep. This will allow your body to produce sleep hormones that will help you achieve a deep and restful sleep.
Get More Vitamin D
Not surprisingly, many people feel that winter has a negative effect on mood. It's no secret that we get less sunshine during the winter months, which can seriously deplete our bodies' levels of vitamin D. Known as the "happy vitamin," vitamin D is essential for the brain's production of neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. When we lack adequate vitamin D, not only do we experience poor mood, we also see drops in energy levels. To combat this, try to get out in the sun for at least 20 minutes per day. If you can't do that, consider adding a vitamin D supplement to your daily routine.
Practice Morning Exercise
Whether it's stretching, jogging, walking, or going to the gym, making morning exercise a priority can have a huge effect on our health and wellbeing. Not only do early morning workouts ensure we meet our physical activity needs for the day, they also trigger the production of neurotransmitters that improve mood. Start your day off on the right foot by making morning exercise a priority and watch as your entire day improves.
Eat More Plants
There's no doubt about it: plants are among the healthiest food we can consume. Boasting a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, fiber, and healthy carbohydrates, plants provide us with a plethora of benefits. If you're lacking energy, chances are, it may be due to a deficiency in any one of the dozens of nutrients your body needs to function properly. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet is a sure way to increase nutrient intake while simultaneously improving digestion and increasing energy levels.
Rest and Relaxation
Nothing spells fatigue like not getting enough rest. Not only does rest mean getting enough sleep, it also means setting aside time to do things that rejuvenate both your body and mind. Whether that means a relaxing bath, reading a good book, meditating, or listening to your favorite music, taking time out of the day to relax and enjoy yourself is essential. Doing so will reduce levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, allowing you to better cope with the stresses of daily living.
Getting back into the swing of things after winter is never an easy task. But with a bit of dedication and a hefty dose of self-care, transitioning from winter hibernation into the excitement of spring doesn't have to be so hard. Simply take a bit of time for yourself each day, feed yourself healthy food, and stay moving. In no time at all, you'll be on the road to your healthiest self!
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Keith Fahlgren is the Director of Engineering at Safari Books Online. Previously, he worked at Threepress Consulting, O'Reilly Media, and was the co-developer of Ibis Reader.
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Have you visited The Arch yet?
Climpson's Arch is housed in our Roastery, just off London Fields. It's a progression on from our interest in crafting artisan products, as well as a welcoming venue for the local community, with indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar and a custom-made, outdoor BBQ!
"Chefs are rarely seen outside their isolated kitchen/restaurant environment. Here, chefs can assert their talent, interact with the customers and get back to basics with food and fire." - Ian Burgess, Owner.
Ian's vision has been to create a platform for young chefs to show off their talents. Licky Chop by Lucky Chip has proved a popular addition this year, with multiple mentions in the digital world for their BBQ feasts.
Dave Wrigley, our Bar Tender, has created a beverage list that evolves throughout the season, including natural, organic and biodynamic wines, and feature beers from The Kernel, Beavertown and Camden Brewery. His selection of cocktails uses seasonal British fruits and herbs; as well as signature homemade coffee liqueur, using Climpson Estate espresso and mescal.
More info here...