Christmas Flowers France

Christmas Flowers France Items For French Christmas

2011-12-20T01:41:00.000-08:00

France believes that the center of the universe of refinement, charm and distinction, and is often associated with specialties such as wine and chocolate. It is almost always thought that instead of romance, and some of these ideas can help you find the perfect gift for christmas flowers delivery france

French to please everyone on your list.

A little different spin on the idea of a gift basket can start with a nice dish of olive wood, a hardwood prized for fine-grain cabinetry and furniture. Olive leaf has been considered a symbol of peace, and what better time of year to wish for world peace.Inside the small container that you can put all the memories that were found to symbolize France.

He says it's for chocolate lovers, and addition and delicious assortment of chocolates in France would be the perfect symbol for their loved ones. The French are known for their strict adherence to perfection in the kitchen, and his specialty is 100% pure chocolate cocoa.

With chocolate, you can add a bottle of Chanel perfume or famous men of Cologne. France is known for capturing the essence of the fragrant flowers of nature and the presentation to allow a person to feel rich beyond their dreams. The French have a particular understanding of fine fragrance and other gifts such as bath soap, bath additives, bath robes and even that will delight anyone on your list.

A nice little world of snow inside the Eiffel Tower could provide years of nostalgic dreams of vacation in Paris, and if you hide a pair of return tickets on the plate of your holiday gift problem may be more that giving a gift, which could provide a memory that will never end.

Maybe christmas flowers france blog is to give a gift of jewelry. Limoges boxes made in Limoges, France, and signed or initialed by the French artist, could have a special surprise inside secret place. A gift that says "I love you" in a jewelry box that can be transmitted to future generations.

To end it all until the French wrapping paper, memory book and a pretty bow on top of a French gift bag French. All you can think of France and its marvelous architecture, music, art and places related to peace and style can be found in a gift bag to hide within its container wonderful gift of christmas flowers france French.

Boutique offers a beautiful range of accessories for the life of the French Provence, French ceramic gifts, French and accessories would be really wonderful room that unique Christmas gift.

Joyous music fills hearts with sounds of the season - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas isn't Christmas without music to enrich the holiday proceedings. The questionis, which new CDs to buy? christmas flowers france recordings abound, and each offers a different style, medium or artist.

Thankfully, you can't go wrong with the three CDs that landed on my desk this year. Each will serve as pleasant background fare, and each will satisfy the most attentive listener.

The survey begins with pianist Jeffrey Biegel performing eclectic selections on "A Steinway christmas flowers france blogs Album: Piano Music for the Season." The recording is one of the first to be released on the Steinway & Sons record label, which was started last year. Steinway, the noted maker of pianos, envisions releasing four recordings a year that showcase Steinway artists, according to an online news release.

The venture is off to an auspicious start. In "A Steinway Christmas," Biegel applies a classical musician's sensibility and technical standards to one familiar tune after another.

He makes easy work of Andrew Gentile's dense and technically daunting arrangement of Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride," making a seemingly simple tune anything but. We hear what program notes describe as "swirls of flurries" and "a mighty shaking-off of snowflakes." Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" is transformed into a grand vehicle able to embrace wholly new material.

In the middle of "A Steinway Christmas," attractive solo-piano arrangements of several "Nutcracker" selections are heard. Biegel imparts them with rhythmic vibrancy and precision. The "Russian Dance" is marked by infectious sparkle.

Biegel shows many sides of a multifaceted talent. He jazzes things up nicely in "Christmas is A-Comin'." He plays traditional carols in a way that speaks directly to the heart. And in his attractive arrangement of Ann Hampton Callaway's "Christmas Lullaby," he ornaments the melodic line in intriguing ways.

* * * * *

As you may know, Paul Anka headlined a Christmas concert this month, introducing material from "Songs of December" (Universal Music Decca).

I've enjoyed becoming better acquainted with this recording, which shows the famed singer-songwriter at the top of his game, reveling in introspection and contentment. If Anka's artistry sometimes recalls that of the late Frank Sinatra, this amounts to the highest compliment you can pay a singer of popular music. Each line is phrased with class, and each word rings out with pristine clarity. The orchestral arrangements glow with an attractive subtlety.

Some highlights: "Let It Snow" becomes a vivid ballad in which the warmth and coziness of sitting with a loved one by the fire becomes the perfect antidote to a frightfully cold and stormy night. "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" swings along in easy-going fashion, punctuated by slidelike piano.

And "Silent Night," despite its nonsilent beginning, brings the recording to a satisfying close. During Anka's rendition, the familiar tune transitions occasionally into "A Cradle In Bethlehem," giving it a welcome new dimension.

* * * * *

For those who like music arranged for vocal ensemble, the nine virtuoso male singers on "Christmas with Cantus" (Cantus Recordings) deliver an international feast for the ears. This begins in England ("Nowell! Nowell! This is the Salutation") and ends firmly in the United States.

Along the way, there are stops in such places as Slovenia, Russia and France. Throughout it all, the Cantus singers demonstrate a daunting command of styles and languages. Invariably, their singing is marked by impeccable intonation and the finest musical instincts.

Although Cantus is known for singing without accompaniment, percussion instruments establish a subtle-yet-effective presence in several selections on "Christmas." For example, bells ring softly through Vladimir Morosan's stirring arrangement of Sergei Rachmaninov's "Priidite Poklonimsya" and through "Carol of the Bells." Drums enliven "Pat-A-Drummer" in a way that makes the music sound surprisingly African in character.

The last of the album's 16 tracks is Michael Engelhardt's arrangement of the spiritual "Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow!" The tight harmonies, spiced up with the snapping of fingers, provide a swinging foundation for the soaring solo of Aaron Humble. I adored every note.

ABTA reveals numbers for the great festive getaway - Christmas Flowers france

2011-12-16T21:32:00.000-08:00

ABTA - The Travel Association estimates that 4.25 million Britons will be heading overseas this Christmas and New Year period [16 December – 3 January], compared to just under 4 million twelve months ago, with the peak travel days predicted to be 22 and 23 December.

Christmas and New Year is traditionally one of the peak getaway periods, this year sees an increase in the number of people looking to get away to relax and have fun with loved ones.

Many are looking for a traditional white christmas flowers france experience and despite a dry start to the season, much welcome snow has begun to fall in Europe. Ski resorts in France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy have all sold well with the week around the New Year traditionally the busiest of the season. Many lucky children are having the ultimate early Christmas present, a trip to Lapland to see Father Christmas and the Northern Lights, which are predicted to be especially active this winter due to increased solar activity.

For many however, sun is the priority, and travel companies are reporting they will be heading to destinations such as the Canary Islands, Cuba the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Other lucky travellers will be flying south to Australia and New Zealand for christmas flowers france blogs and New Year on the beach.

Others will also be enjoying the beautiful wintery UK scenes staying in country hotels and cottages.

CONTINUES BELOW

Popular for New Year’s Eve breaks are the cities of Paris, Reykjavik, Rome, Dublin and New York.

Millions of people will be leaving the country through the major airports, which include Heathrow where 1.7 million will be leaving, Stansted 425,000, Gatwick 750,000, Luton 210,000 and Glasgow 120,000. In addition 340,000 will leave from Manchester, 165,000 from Birmingham and 120,000 from Glasgow.

In addition many hundreds of thousands will travel across the English Channel by ferry or through the Channel Tunnel.

Mark Tanzer ABTA Chief Executive said: “Christmas and the New Year are amongst the busiest times of the year for the travel industry and I am delighted that millions of our customers are taking advantage of time off. With all the doom and gloom of the economy it looks like people are keen to escape for a break, whether they are visiting friends and family or looking to enjoy winter sun or guaranteed snow.”

Cattle Call: This week in quirky aviation news: stolen first class items, airline Christmas videos -

2011-12-16T03:26:00.000-08:00

Tis the season to be jolly and buy expensive bottles of wine, or at least that is the message from French airport operator Aeroports de Paris (AdP). A shopper "from the far east" spent EUR50,000 on six bottles of wine: a bottle of Romanee Conti 1995, a Chateau Margaux 2003, two bottles of Chateau Lafitte 1982 and two bottles of Petrus 1980. AdP said passengers annually purchase one million bottles of wine and 400,000 bottles of champagne, but high quality wine "sold better at the end of the year".

Paris was also host to some unconventional sales. A 28-year-old photographer based in Canada reportedly made over EUR10,000 selling on the internet items from Air France's first class cabins, including napkins, plates and blankets. Authorities apprehended him in Reunion after a tip from Air France, and discovered more pilfered goods in his luggage. Investigators are now looking into whether this man was "part of a larger ring". Virgin Atlantic has supported in-flight looting by stamping the bottom of its airplane-shaped salt and pepper shakers with the statement "Pinched from Virgin Atlantic".

christmas flowers france blogs You might soon notice something else missing from your flight: Alec Baldwin. Following an incident earlier this month in which Mr Baldwin was removed from an American Airlines (AA) flight, the US Association of Professional Flight Attendants has called for Mr Baldwin to not only be banned from flying AA but that the carrier should also remove Baldwin's TV show 30 Rock from their in-flight entertainment (IFE) lineup.

But do not fear, IFE fans, because airBaltic starting 16-Dec-2011 will sell Mini Coopers on board its flights, giving the Latvian carrier bragging rights as the world's first – and so far only – carrier to do so. The Mini Coopers feature a custom paint job resembling the airline's livery.

Source: airBaltic

This is not the first odd sale for airBaltic. Earlier this year the carrier ran an advertising campaign featuring various shoe styles (high heels, work shoes and beach footwear) sporting the airline's livery. After receiving enough inquiries about if the shoes could be bought, the carrier decided to manufacture one design, below. You can see the rest of the designs here.

Source: airBaltic

Should you happen to buy the shoes (EUR55) or a Mini Cooper (EUR24,699) as a gift and need them wrapped, head over to Virgin Atlantic boarding gates at London's Gatwick and Heathrow airports where "Virgin airport elves" will wrap presents this month in exchange for a charity donation.

For a present that is really out of this world, consider sending a loved one's ashes into space. Best of all, it may be tax deductible in the US state of Virginia, where a pending bill would provide USD8000 in tax credits for ashes sent into space (outside of Earth or in lunar orbit), but only if the ashes lift off from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island in Virginia. The pending bill aims to help foster a commercial space industry in Virginia. If passed, the tax break will be available to Virginia residents between 2013 and 2021, so plan your death accordingly.

One person who missed out on the space ash offer is Rico, Air New Zealand's affable, if foul-mouthed, sloth-like-thing that was "killed" earlier this month. Out of the death Air New Zealand made an online game where Rico fans could try to solve his murder. The culprit was revealed this week as Richard Simmons. Rico, apparently, managed to do 55 more jumping jacks than the "Fit to Fly" safety video star. Good thing Air New Zealand recently auctioned off Simmons' Swarvorski diamond-studded singlet – Simmons will not need that in the slammer.

Speaking of Air New Zealand, we are still a fan of their IT department's holiday video from last year in which office lights are synchronised to Carol of the Bells, but startup carrier Scoot is starting the festive airline video season with an unusual submission showing management heads popping out of an aircraft window and bobbing along to Deck the Halls. It has a novelty factor – or perhaps what they call "Scootitude".

These videos may be fun and games for the airlines, but Santa Clause is taking no risk to when it comes to his multitude of flights on christmas flowers france Eve. He recently visited Airservices Australia's Melbourne air traffic management complex to ensure everything was in order for his flights.

Air Zimbabwe is also ensuring everything is in order, but is doing so by cancelling flights. The carrier has suspended services to Johannesburg because the creditor of its Boeing 737-200, Bid Air Services, announced plans to seize the aircraft at their next opportunity due to a USD500,000 debt from Air Zimbabwe. The aircraft, The Independent reports, was "nearly" impounded at Johannesburg last week. Perhaps Air Zimbabwe could pop over to Reunion and ask the detained photographer for tips on selling first class goods on the internet.

Your weekly guide to Houston: Spanish carols, a French icon and a winter (solstice) wonderland - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

If there's such a thing as too much talent, it would resemble the Glassell School of Art studio sale over the weekend. Think of wall after wall filled with paintings, prints, mixed media and photographs crafted by accomplished students, flanking tables of sculpture, pottery, jewlery and more art.

Picking pieces wasn't easy — blame that on the overwhelming task of poring through each work of art.

The Thursday night preview opened the doors to Art Crowd members, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's young professionals group. On Friday and Saturday, it was a buzzing free-for-all, as the annual sale was moved to holiday time rather than end of spring as it has been in previous years.

And that was a very good idea.

One could find the same lively energy at Momentum Audi as Sideline Soiree co-chairs Michael Coppens and Kimberly Rawson, alongside Kimberli Bowman, hosted the 2011 Bowl Selections Soiree as a kick-off to the Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas set for Dec. 31.

Getting sporty in the crowd were Paul Pettie, Heather Pray, Melissa Seuffert and Kevin Gilbert, Tyson Dunn, Sidney Short, Beth and Carole McGarry, football coach Max Bowman and his wife Beverly and Courtney Pemberton.

A festive and feel-good scene it was, heightened by nibbles courtesy of Don Carlos, Haven, Palazzo's, Pink's Pizza, Sushi King and Nothing Bundt Cakesby and knowing the beneficiary was DePelchin Children's Center thanks to the Sideline Soiree Committee and the American Cancer Society's Victory Gentlemen's Committee.

As a first timer to Lights in the Heights, I can best describe the experience as shock and awe. Hard to tell whether this was an all-out frat party or a holiday street fest, perhaps a little bit of both. Family-friendly at first, filled with genteel strolling, street carolers and costumed pooches, morphing into a risqué after-dark bacchanal.

At least that was the ambiance at Bill Shirley's house, where the afterparty has been an institution for a couple of decades. For admission, a quirky hat was required. Rumor has it that garage band Bubba Coltrane and the Trainwrecks came down from Austin and jammed for a bottle of Jägermeister and perhaps a shot of two from the ice luge.

There, we spotted James Phelan, James Glassman, Karl Lin, Brian Block, Brey Tucker and Chris Boyd amidst Santas on roller skates.

What's on tap for next week? Read on.

CultureMap's Mixers on the Map with Young Texans Againts Cancer (YTAC) and Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) at BlackFinn American Grille

If you haven't yet attended a CultureMap Mixers on the Map, I'd encourage you to check out this double-feature social. These series of happy hours highlight young professional groups, the movers and shakers that support an organization or a cause. This time around, both Young Texans Against Cancer and Young Professionals in Energy join hands to toast the season. Usually on the third Tuesday of the month, the December gathering is on Thursday at 7 p.m.

In the spirit of good doing, monetary donations for Adopt a Family with Candlelighters for christmas flowers france will be accepted. The initiative helps families of children diagnosed with cancer or those who recently lost a child to cancer during challenging times.

Premiere Screening of Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life at Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

It was after MFAH's film schedule went to print that Gainsbourg: Vie héroïque became available for the premiere Houston screening. Winning Best Actor and Best First Film at the 2011 Cesar Awards and Best Actor at the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival, it was the vision of comic-book artist cum-director Joann Sfar, alongside actor Eric Elmosnino as French singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, that gives the film its pseudo-surrealist spunk.

The film tackles the legendary musician, from his early days in Nazi-occupied Paris, his rise as a jazz musician to reaching super stardom, with a soundtrack including many of his most beloved tunes.

On Friday, the screening will also include the short film Gainsbourg: Exterior Night (Gainsbourg: Extérieur Nuit) directed by Patrice Vanoni, cultural attaché at the Consulate General of France in Houston, who will be in attendance, followed by a reception in the galleries. Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life also shows on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Houston Grand Opera Studio Recital at Rienzi

The lovely, tucked-away former home of Caroll and Harris Masterson — now the home of MFAH's European decorative arts collection — is the backdrop for Houston Grand Opera Studio recitals, an opportunity to get to know rising stars in the opera scene. Think of Rienzi's exquisite parquet floors, delicate porcelain, delicious period architecture and breathtaking art surrounding you while you enjoy the music of Liszt, Duparc, Marx and Tosti in an ode to the free spirit of the gypsies, passionate love and the mystery of the night.

The studio has produced such stars as Albina Shagimuratova, Joyce DiDonato and Scott Hendricks, so opera's next diva just might emerge from the program. Post-concert guests can indulge in a wine and sweets reception in the main gathering areas. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Winter Solstice Wine and Cheese Night Hike christmas flowers france blogs

With the hectic nature of the gift-giving season, a night off to regain sanity is sometimes in order. There's no better place to do so than in Houston's urban wilderness. In the heart of the city you'll find the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, a 155-acre nature sanctuary that makes anyone who walks its trails forget that you are in the midst of inner loop action.

At the Winter Solstice Wine and Cheese Night Hike on Saturday, nature lovers will head to the meadow deck, which borders the pond. After warming up with a little cheese and wine, Tai Chi instructor Dale Napier will discuss cultural traditions celebrating the solstice. He might also let you try a hand at ritualistic Tai Chi movements appropriate for the time of year.

Foundation for Modern Music An Afternoon of Spanish and Latin Carols and Dance at Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Who says Christmas has to be so holy, so well behaved? Why not infuse a little rhythm and dance action in the celebration? At Foundation for Modern Music's first presentation at MFAH, the music presenter partners with Flamárt — a fiery performance troupe that spotlights European and African influences on Latin American and Spanish musical genres — to put a little skip on that Christmas step.

On Sunday at 2 p.m., "Navidad Latina" mingles all things saucy and high energy found in the musics and dances of Spain, Latin America and the Caribbean with performers Solero Flamenco (cante y toque), percussionist Jorge "Cro-Cro" Orta and baritone Raúl Orlando Edwards, among others.

Houston explorer and CultureMap's adorably awesome Whitney Radley's pick: Discovery Green Flea

Whitney says: "Another year, another holiday shopping procrastination. I hope to prevent impending panic by picking up one-of-a-kind treasures and locally-crafted goods for my loved ones at the Discovery Green Flea on Saturday afternoon."

Arts smarty pants and beer lovin' lovable Dancehunter Nancy Wozny's pick: Beyond Useful & Beautiful: Rethinking Domestic Craft and Soundforge at Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

Nancy says: "Usually, I'm the last person to be handed a hammer, but the wonderful folks at Houston Center for Contemporary Craft offered me several as part of Soundforge, an installation piece by metal artist and former artist in residence Gabriel Craig and Michael Remson, artistic director of American Festival for the Arts. Metal is all about sound, according to these two guys, hence hammers are left for you to play.

"While you are there, also stop in to see Beyond Useful & Beautiful: Rethinking Domestic Craft, inspired by Arts & Crafts Movement founder William Morris' famous words, 'Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.' I especially loved Lauren Mayer's porcelain slips in Between What I Say and What I Keep Silent and Alison Owen's wallpaper sprinkled throughout the exhibition. Both shows remain open until Jan. 8."

Arts and architecture savant and all around awesome guy Tyler Rudick's pick: Houston Arboretum's Winter Holiday Shrub and Tree Sale

Tyler says: "The drought has done a number of my gardening attempts, so I'm definitely hitting up the Houston Arboretum's Winter Holiday Shrub and Tree Sale which runs through Sunday.

"With scores of native plants as well as reasonably-price organic compose and mulch, the sale is historically a wonderful place to stock up for any winter green-thumb efforts. All proceeds go to the education and conservation programs at the Arboretum, which itself needs some serious love in light of our recent dry spell."

12 Days of Christmas Gifts: Day Seven—the Connoisseur - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

It seems like saying "Buy Local" has become the in thing to do, but for small businesses in our area, there is nothing new about shopping locally. For the next 12 days, we're going to post an item each day showcasing some of the great businesses in Edgewater and Davidsonville.

Day Seven: Today we went shopping for a wine connoisseur. This is a person who selects the wine for each meal, co-mingling the flavors so that the wine harmonizes with the food. Or maybe this person has a taste for wine, but not the budget to consistently buy themselves really nice wine. Or maybe you're looking to buy a case of wine to give out as hostess gifts at all of holiday parties you'll be attending.

Whatever your reason for needing to buy wine this holiday season, we got the lowdown on the high-end wines available at Edgewater Liquors. We also found some bargains.

Grape growing is undergoing a change. As the globe heats up, the places that were on the periphery of making great wines are beginning to produce top quality wines, said Russell Stone, a wine expert at Edgewater Liquors.

He has his eye on some areas of France that are now coming into their own as wine producing regions. He's not talking Burgundy, Bordeaux or Champagne these days. He's talking a little further north, in the LeDuc-Frouin area.

He offers a 2009 Chateau De La Negly white for $45.

"This was once a backwater area, but now they are making fantastic wines that rival the old vines from the established areas," Stone said.

The importer that goes for these wines, Jeffrey Davies, is an importer/distributor to watch because Davies finds unusual wines from small artisan wineries and imports them, Stone said.

On this side of the pond, the Napa area of California has been a go-to for Cabernet Savignon, although they are often priced out of reach, Stone said.

"These wines are $80 to $100 and up to $200 and more for a bottle of wine—whatever the market will bear," Stone said.

Stone feels the price is ridiculous.

"At most, it can cost $10 to get a wine to market, but seeing a 200 percent or more markup is just greed and keeps good wines off the table," he said.

The magic is finding a wine that has the properties of those pricey wines but is more reasonably priced.

Stone says he has found that wine. It's a red, from Mount Eden Vineyards, in the Santa Cruz mountain area. For $35, the Domaine Eden Cabernet Sauvignon is a value, especially after being rated a 90 by Food and Wine magazine.

Mount Eden also has a slightly pricier Estate Cabernet at $65.99, but Stone suggests that the wine at half the price is one that will beat out a lot of other wines. Both are 2007 vintage.

Stone suggests decanting these Cabernets before drinking.

For a good value hostess gift, Stone suggests Prosecco, a white sparkling wine that, at $14.99 is a great deal.

Stone said that a lot has happened in France, between a steep estate tax, or death tax, and climate changes that hurt the old vine areas, including Champagne. Prosecco is a decent sparkling wine, especially when Champagne from the Champagne region has priced itself out of reach for most at $100, $200 or even up to $2,000.

So talk to your favorite wine store expert and give them a price range. They'll help you find something terrific to give, or even just to buy for yourself to serve with christmas flowers france dinner.

Happy shopping!

christmas flowers france blogs

Kristina Dragomir Hats

Artistic hats are executed on frames made by the renowned UK Royal House specialists, with the finest and most exotic materials purchased in London, where the designer actually learned her craft: this is a fantasy world where women have no limits. A meeting for a unique hat made by Kristina Dragomir and a chance to hear her styling advice is available by appointment only from 18.30-21.00, Monday to Friday.

Mihail Kogalniceanu 51, 2nd floor, access code 11.

Madame Briolette

A window full of heads wearing hats, berets and caps on Magheru Boulevard heralds a store with modest interior design, but this means little given the shelves of hats waiting to be tested. Besides fur hats made in Poland or Ukraine, the multitude of felt options and classical models in many colors are created in Romania. Hand-knitted hats and shawls from Hunedoara villages and plenty of colorful leather gloves are among the many other accessories. And all at very affordable prices.

Briolette du Cinema, Magheru 29, corner with Biserica Amzei; Briolette Boutique, Ion Campineanu 12.

Musette

A classic feminine look and comfort, designed by an Italian team, is what characterizes the Romanian-based footwear brand Musette. Bags, clutches and belts, defined by color and style, are also produced under the same name. Cristhelen B is Musette’s premium brand for woman, an exclusive line produced in limited editions. For men, the Giannini line of shoes and accessories are made to the same high standards of quality and affordable prices.

Calea Victoriei 114, Baneasa Shopping City, Bucuresti-Ploiesti 26, Bucuresti Mall, Calea Vitan 55-59, Unirea Shopping Center, Piata Unirii 1, Cotroceni Park, Bd. Vasile Milea 4. office@musettegroup.ro.

Nissa

A one hundred percent Romanian apparel brand for women with a modern-classical style in keeping with the latest international trends, but a very good price/quality ratio. There is a network of shops, most of them in malls, but also a flagship store close to Piata Romana (B-dul Dacia 39, Mon-Sat 9.00-20.00, Sun 10.00-18.00).

Unirea Shopping Center, AFI Palace Cotroceni, Cora Pantelimon, Centrul Comercial Feeria-Baneasa, Centrul Comercial Orhideea.

Pierrot

Interior and garden decorations, gift ideas and Christmas decorations all under one roof. This store stocks beautiful objects, carefully put together and inspired by various traditions. They bear the names of famous interior design companies from Italy and Germany such as Wald, Shan, Hoff Interieur and Drescher, found exclusively at Pierrot. The product range is wide, from items such as porcelain from the exclusive Villar collection, inspired by the Italian baroque, to affordable products, both contemporary and traditional. The store is a rich source of gift ideas from scented candles and Swarovski crystals, to traditional Christmas decorations.

Intr. Biserica Alba 1.

Sepala

The footwear brand Sepala, Mihaela Glavan’s high-end line, embraces minimalism. Shoes are simple, with well-defined cuts and cutouts. The must-have of the A/W collection are the over-the-knee boots and high platform shoes going for a sexy look in parallel with the low biker-inspired boots. Sepala Kids and RSM for men make the shopping experience one for the

family.

Benjamin Franklin 9, (Atheneum area). Mon-Fri 10.00-22.00, Sat 10.00-17.00.

The Place Concept Store

The first fashion concept store in Romania is a versatile space mixing luxury and avant-garde fashion collections with the hottest music labels, modern art exhibitions, high-tech gadgets and chic events. The on-trend labels found here include Azzedine Alaia, Oscar de la Renta, Rick Owns, Gareth Pugh, Jil Sanders, Alexander Wang and Sonia Rykiel.

Calea Dorobantilor 102-110. Mon-Fri 10.00-20.00, Sat 10.00-18.00.

Trend’s by Adina Buzatu

A touch of refinement and an interwar atmosphere grace the first boutique covering mainly men’s apparel. Shoes from Ortigni, Magnanni and Bensimon, Albert Thurston braces, Borsalino hats, an impressive collection of cufflinks and ties are all on offer. From the classic casual and elegant designs of Messagerie to the progressive Babette Wasserman, the pieces are versatile and easy to match. But if you are not sure, do not hesitate to ask the owner, who is always pleased to help style you.

Calea Victoriei 83-85 (Downtown boutique), Baneasa Shopping City, ground floor.

www.adinabuzatu.ro.

Venera Arapu

A mono-brand store with a distinctive signature on the interior design, fashion designer Venera Arapu brings a range of clothing from evening gowns to shirts and coats, all dedicated to strong and non-conformist women, yet endowed with refinement and elegance. A special surprise comes from the Vitrina pieces created and manufactured under the designer’s direct supervision by students of the Bucharest Fashion Design Faculty.

Banu Antonache 59.

The dark heart of a European Christmas - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-12T01:36:00.000-08:00

The etymological root of the word Europe is the Phoenician ereb, the darkness after the sun has gone down. Here in France light leaves us early and the darkest time of the year is before christmas flowers france .

The landscape out my window looks dirty. Northern skies are grey, any sun that dares come through the clouds is weak and the place seems tired out by summer frivolity and autumn trauma. The economic woes of the continent reflect on my window where naked trees wait for a giant white dump from the skies to cover everything in sight.

Nietzsche said only money could unite Europe and in 2010 Angela Merkel stated, 'If the euro fails, so will the idea of the European Union.'

Europe is the home of universalism. It's also known for imperialism, nationalism and utopian projects. It's the land on the hunt for transcendental light. The European obsession with universalism justified its colonial ambition, wrought havoc across the globe, and established Europe's wealth.

The EU was a panacea for Europe's nationalist and imperial history. Europe's universalist tendencies were vested in the experiment with an internationalist supra-national body, and all hope was pinned on the common currency as the saviour able to transcend internal differences within the continent.

The 'idea' of Europe has baffled philosophers and commentators for centuries and the question wasn't going to vanish because global markets ordered it to. The emphasis on the euro as the forerunner in the race towards EU unity was at the cost of the hard work of governance and grappling with difference — the real work of politics. Now the grand visions and optimism about the EU lie in debt fragments and the same question returns to haunt — What is Europe?

The idea that economic unity, without difficult political engagement, can magically create equality and community has served to reveal, not only the racism that persists against immigrants from outside Europe, but also the hold France and Germany have upon the 'peripheral' EU nations.

Perhaps Europe, following neo-liberal fashions, ran too hard towards fiscal unity and neglected its divided history. Underlying this is a suspicion that some elements of European thought contain a constant temptation towards hubris that requires an 'other' to support it's superiority complex — the imperial tendencies haven't magically vanished but are manifest within Europe's borders.

Roberto Dainotto argued in 2007 that 'the idea of the defective Europeanness of the south has shaped the policies of a two-tiered Europe' and that the Eurocentrism of nations like France and Germany occurred within the margins of Europe itself. Attempts to homogenise Europe would never succeed unless the balance between north and south was structurally and culturally addressed.

From the beginning of the EU the southern nations have been known as PIGS: Portugal, Italy, Greece and Spain. Dainotto argues that the inability of their northern cousins to integrate the 'peripheral' nations into the 'idea of Europe' meant the southern nations persisted as European in theory only.

In 2011 this divide manifests fiscally and the north points the blame at the south, very easy to do with men like Berlusconi, and in neo-liberal economic terms this accusation makes sense, but denies larger, more haunting questions.

The problem of the impending failure of the eurozone is that the unspoken hierarchy, where the 'hot', 'passionate' and 'irresponsible' south is culturally inferior to the 'cool', 'reasonable' and 'restrained' north, might have been entrenched in EU governance structures. No common currency could eradicate this systemic bias without the support of a more inclusive notion of EU citizenship and slower fiscal policies.

Now some commentators and politicians have called for the formalisation of a two-tiered EU, saying it is necessary to save the 'whole' continent, as well as the 'idea' of Europe. The EU is a grand experiment in a new kind of citizenship as well as an attempt at economic unity. Citizenship and economics are not synonyms. Economics might try to run ahead but the slow questioning citizen, regardless of origin, is the true barometer of unity.

As christmas flowers france blogs approaches, the air in France feels fragile. Winter will be frugal. Europe is a complicated place and the threat of death and disintegration are constantly on the European mind. Not natural optimists, they cling to grand projects in order not to fall backwards into a bloody nationalist history.

Face to face with failure, nations like France and Germany will be tested as to whether their commitment to universalism and visionary projects transcends neo-liberal economics.

It's the darkest time of the year and by afternoon our windows are black. The trickle-down unification fails with the light, but when the snow falls everything seems equal. Landscape covered in white creates the illusion of unity.

Speaking as an Antipodean, snow might look pretty, but it's a trick. Living with it requires sheer hard work performed by a slow and humble shovel.

Small Towns Fear Losing Holiday Postmarks - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-09T22:37:00.000-08:00

BETHLEHEM, PA--Each December, a sleepy one-man post office in rural Indiana roars to life as thousands of holiday greeting cards arrive from around the world, each seeking the outpost's unique red-inked imprint that pays homage to the hamlet's biblical name.

Postmaster John Cable stamps each by hand, some with a simple postmark cachet that carries the phrase "Star of Bethlehem" above a five-pointed star. Others get a stamp depicting the three camel-riding wise men following the star of Bethlehem.

"My brother in California, my son in South Bend, my daughter — they really look forward to that stamp on their letters. They expect it every Christmas," said retiree Mike King of Scottsburg, Ind., who made a 30-mile trip to the post office this week so his holiday batch of mail could keep a two-decade tradition of carrying the festive flair.

This could be the last year for his trip: Those distinctive stamps offered for more than five decades by the tiny post office could soon be a ghost of christmas flowers france past.

The Bethlehem post office is one of more than half a dozen with winter-themed names that are on a list of about 3,700 post offices nationwide the U.S. Postal Service has proposed shuttering to help slash costs. The postmarks from Snow, Okla., Antler, N.D., and Chestnut, Ill., might also fade away.

The agency will begin deciding the fate of those post offices early next year unless Congress intervenes, said Postal Service spokesman Victor Dubina.

There are other places that will still offer a holiday postmark. North Pole postmarks will still be available in Alaska and New York. Six other states have a Bethlehem. But the proposed closures mean that it could be the last time these rural outposts get to take pride in the purpose their postmark brings each holiday.

Some years, Antler Postmaster Sharon Tennyson stamps 1,000 letters with a special stamp sporting a reindeer in red or black ink. The tradition in the North Dakota town of about 35 just south of the Canadian border dates from the 1950s.

"People say it's neat to have their letters or Christmas cards postmarked with Antler on them," Tennyson said. "They come from all over."

Bethlehem's heyday as a bustling 19th century river town is far behind it. There's not much left beyond a few dozen homes for the 100 or so residents, a church, an old schoolhouse and a view of the Ohio River's swirling waters framed by bluffs in adjacent Kentucky. Its first post office opened in March 1816, and has moved several times over the past two centuries, now housed in a modular trailer.

During the year, the office handles only about 120 pieces of mail each week. But come the six-week christmas flowers france blogs card crush, it surges to about 16,000 overall.

Much of that mail arrives in packages filled with bundles of letters, postage already affixed, from as far away as Germany, France and Great Britain. Other cards are delivered in person to the postmaster, often from people whose families have sent cards with the postmark for years.

Like other postal outlets targeted to close, the mail has slowed down here over the years. As Cable, the postmaster, wielded a rubber stamp encrusted in glitter from sparkly holiday envelopes, he noted that he handled 25,000 postmarks the first year on the job in 2001. He isn't optimistic about the tiny office's fate.

"We're just going to have to wait and see," Cable said.

Snow, Okla., also might lose its mark. Though the town about 140 miles southeast of Oklahoma City offers only a standard postmark with the date of cancellation and "Snow, OK" within a circle, people still travel to get the postmark, Postmaster Frances Creel said.

"We're the only Snow in the United States," she said. "I had a lady drive from Missouri just to have her Christmas cards postmarked."

Finding another holiday postmark may just take a little research. In Indiana, there's another option. Those seeking a nod from the jolly old elf can send mail to Santa Claus, Ind., a Christmas-themed town about 100 miles west of Bethlehem that boasts a Santa Claus Museum and a December festival toasting St. Nick.

Santa Claus postmaster Marian Balbach said the post office, which isn't on the closure list, handled about 400,000 pieces of mail in last year's holiday surge. The town's post office has been stamping letters with a red postmark of Santa's image since 1983.

"It's a lot of work," Balbach said. "But it's the joy of it —it really adds to a lot of people's holiday spirit."

Spring Hill Relay for Life team selling new and vintage items - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-08T23:55:00.000-08:00

The Spring Hill Relay for Life's Survivors and Friends Team will have a fundraiser yard sale at 8 a.m. Saturday at Dayspring Presbyterian Church, 6000 Mariner Blvd.

A variety of items will be available, new and vintage. Donations of nonperishable and canned foods will also be collected for the church's food pantry. For information, call (352) 422-1648.

SPRING HILL

Hanukkah fest calls for 100 menorahs

A Hanukkah celebration will be at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 23 at Temple Beth David, 13158 Antelope St.

The event will include a barbecue turkey dinner, potato latkes and drinks. Guests are asked to bring a salad or dessert to share.

The event will include a service in the social hall. There will be music, dreidel playing and other activities.

Each family is asked to bring one menorah. The temple will supply candles to those who do not have them. The goal is to have at least 100 menorahs to light.

There is no cost for temple members; nonmembers pay $10 per person or $20 per family. Reservations are required by Thursday. Send email to Rabbi Lenny at rabbi@tbdfl.org or call the temple at (352) 686-7034.

SPRING HILL

Win a work of art at painter's reception

The Spring Hill Art League and Easy Street Home Decor will present a reception for artist Valdora Ward from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at Easy Street, 100 N Brooksville Ave.

Refreshments will be served. There will also be a free drawing for an umbrella that has been painted by the artist.

Ward's works will remain on display through the end of December. For information, call Sandra LaValley at (352) 799-9690.

BROOKSVILLE

Book club discusses how the mighty fall

The Brooksville Book Discussion Group will meet at 6 p.m. Dec. 19 at Lykes Memorial Library, 238 Howell Ave. The book to be discussed is The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.

The novel is a commentary on the closed, repressive society of the upper-class New York nobility at the dawn of the 20th century. It is the story of the tragic Lily Bart, who ruins her chance for a wealthy marriage, falls from her social circle and dies poor and alone.

New members are welcome. No registration is required, but copies of the book are limited. For information, call (352) 540-6392.

HIGH POINT

Celebrate the season at a christmas flowers france blogs dance

The High Point Community christmas flowers france Dance will be from 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 17 at the community center, 12249 Club House Road.

Music will be provided by Kevin and the Vocal Cords. Guests may bring their own beverages; complimentary coffee and ice will be available. Tickets are $5. For table reservations or tickets, call (352) 596-2827. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

WEEKI WACHEE

Winter lecture series set to begin Jan. 9

Academia Hernando will present its Winter 2012 Lecture Series from 10 a.m. to noon Mondays, Jan. 9 through March 12, at Nativity Lutheran Church, 6363 Commercial Way.

Lectures include:

• Jan. 9: "Stories for the Thinking Person," by Jerry Cowling.

• Jan. 16: Field trip to a Hernando sugarcane farm to see examples of farm implements from days gone by.

• Jan. 23: "Contemporary Architecture in Tampa Bay," by Ed Hoffman, an architect with the Leepa-Rattner Museum in Tarpon Springs.

• Jan. 30: "Marie Curie — Her Life and Work," by Susan Marie Frontczak.

• Feb. 9. Bus trip to Winter Park (Morse Museum and a lake boat trip); for subscribers only.

• Feb. 13: "How Modern Science Has Changed Police Work," by Tim Whitfield, director of the Hernando County Sheriff's Office forensics unit.

• Feb. 20: "Do You Have a Fortune on Your Book Shelves?" presented by George Spiero.

• Feb. 27: "Politics in Florida This Election Year," presented by professor and political analyst Susan McManus.

• March 5: "Customs of Papua New Guinea," by Gertrude Hinsch.

• March 12: "La Bella France: A spotlight on French Civilization and Culture," by Joe Menasche.

Subscriptions to the series are $55 per person. Walk-ins pay $8 per session. To subscribe or for information, call (352) 597-0158. Checks are to be made payable to Academia Hernando and mailed to 5025 Spring Lake Highway, Brooksville, FL 34601.

Misunderstood fee could help Christmas tree farmers - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-07T22:07:00.000-08:00

After years of competing with plastic trees and big-box stores for sales, local christmas flowers france tree farmers hoped to advertise their home-grown evergreens through a new promotional program,

but money for that advertising won’t be collected this year.

“We were looking for a way to promote Christmas trees,” said Greg Smith, owner of the 7 G’s Farm in Nicholson. Smith also is the president-elect for the Georgia Christmas Tree Association.

Farmers hoped to collect 15 cents from the sale of each tree to use for advertising, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture quashed the proposed fee this month after people misunderstood and labeled the fee a Barack Obama christmas flowers france blogs tree tax, Smith said.

“It’s currently on hold because of the public outcry,” he said.

If approved, farmers who sell more than 500 trees could pass 15 cents from each sale to advertising efforts for the entire industry. The fee — known as a check-off — promotes agricultural products such as the dairy industry’s “Got Milk?” campaign.

“The California raisin is a prime example of the check-off,” Smith said.

Such a self-imposed fee could help Christmas tree farmers in marketing their products as more and more people have switched from real to artificial trees, he said.

But the USDA must sign off on the program before the industry can collect the money, and create a 12-member board of Christmas tree farmers to decide what to do with the funds.

Farmers are too busy with their spruces, pines and firs to worry about the check-off during their peak season, said Linda Wilson, the executive director for the Georgia Christmas Tree Association.

“I’m sure it won’t sit for very long because it’s something that we have to get done,” Wilson said.

Manufacturers who produce fake trees pour money into advertising their products, she said. The check-off could give consumers more information about real trees to make an informed decision.

“Our (trees) have some benefits environmentally and it’s a home-grown product,” she said.

The check-off could turn into a nuisance if it’s not used correctly, but the Christmas tree industry must do something to compete, said farmer Damon Malcom, who owns Jack’s Creek Farm in Bostwick.

“We might be upset in a couple of years (or) we could be grateful (for the check-off),” Malcom said.

Farmers need more advertising for real trees to help consumers look for more than buying fake — or even real — Christmas trees from a big-box store, he said.

Some Christmas movies favourites for your holiday tradition - Christmas Flowers France

2011-12-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

From classic to contemporary, from heart warming to bawdy, there’s a Christmas movie for virtually every taste or mood.

Because there are few better ways to escape from the stress of holiday shopping, baking, cleaning and hosting than to experience the season through someone else’s eyes, like James Stewart, Alastair Sim, Chevy Chase or even Edward Scissorhands.

Jen Arbo, of the Royal City Farmers Market, says an evening spent with the Griswolds reminds her of her own family’s christmas flowers france past. Amidst the calamities and corny jokes, “it also has a few touching moments where I am reminded to love my family because of—not despite—all their wackiness,” says Arbo, of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, which was also cited as a favourite by John Buis of the Burnaby RCMP, New Westminster Hyacks football coach Farhan Lalji and Janice Stevens of Dance With Me Studio.

Deb Wardle is a bit of a Christmas movie buff, with more than 20 selections in her family’s DVD library. Old classics like Miracle on 34th Street and It’s a Wonderful Life are Christmas Eve favourites, but her most beloved choice is Charlie Brown’s christmas flowers france blogs .

“The music, the message, the familiar characters, the humour and just everything about this movie makes it my all time favourite,” says Wardle.

New Westminster historian Archie Miller stays true to type by watching Alastair Sim in A Christmas Carol.

Though there have been many movie versions of Charles Dickens’ holiday tale over the years, the 1951 release remains the definitive one for Miller because it “captures so wonderfully the world of the day portrayed... by Charles Dickens.”

New Westminster MLA Dawn Black is a veteran of the political nitty-gritty, but come Christmastime she escapes into the computer-generated fantasy world of The Polar Express.

“It’s a tradition that I invite my grandchildren to watch it with me each year,” says Black. “They always enjoy seeing it again and we have a fun evening together.”

As a comedian, Janice Bannister might be expected to reach for a funny Christmas movie but it’s Bing Crosby’s singing and dancing in White Christmas that gets her in the holiday spirit.

“I remember seeing it for the first time at the theatre in Trail where I grew up,” says Bannister, who also conducts classes in stand-up comedy. “When I was walking home from the theatre it was snowing. When Bing sings ‘I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas,’ the snow falling always reminds me of the Kootenays.

Burnaby mystery writer and puppeteer Elizabeth Elwood also has a soft spot for Crosby’s 1954 musical, but she also piques her taste for intrigue by watching Hercule Poirot’s Christmas, a movie made for TV in 1994.

And for a guy who puts people through a tough exercise regime in his Survivor Bootcamp, Mike Nunes has a soft spot for Miracle on 34th Street.

“This has become an ongoing holiday tradition amongst my family,” says Nunes. “After the presents are opened, hot chocolate is poured and we all sit down to enjoy this movie together.”

Here, in no particular order, are some Christmas movie ideas:

A Christmas Carol: A black & white classic from 1951 stars Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge, a greedy old curmudgeon who has a epiphany of kindness after he’s visited by four ghosts on Christmas Eve.

It’s a Wonderful Life: Another timeless classic involving redemption and angels. This time it’s James Stewart who learns of all the things that make his life worth living thanks to a visit from his guardian angel.

Miracle on 34th Street: When Macy’s Santa turns up drunk, the store’s special events planner finds a replacement named Kris Kringle who claims to be the real deal. While adults are doubtful, children believe. Eventually everyone ends up in court, where the veracity of Kringle’s identity will be tested.

A Christmas Story: All Ralphie wants for Christmas is an air rifle, but all the adults in his life, including Santa himself, are warning of the danger such a gift would present to his eyesight. This 1983 film has become a contemporary classic; one cable network even shows it repeatedly for 24 hours beginning on Christmas eve.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Clark Griswold is going to hold the biggest family Christmas celebration ever, but of course it all goes terribly wrong when his perpetual bad luck is compounded by obnoxious guests.

Elf: Buddy suspects something is not quite right when he’s twice the size of all of Santa’s elves, with whom he was raised. So Santa allows him to go to New York City to find his real father, but Buddy just can’t overcome his elfish nature. The best Christmas movie ever filmed in Vancouver.

Home Alone: Kevin’s family is off to Paris for Christmas vacation, but after he’s sent to his room for fighting with his older brother, they forget him. At first, having the house to himself is a hoot, but then burglars try to break in. Not on Kevin’s watch, though.

Love Actually: Eight characters, including the prime minister of England, fall in and out of love during the holidays in London.

A Midnight Clear: In an isolated forest somewhere in France in 1944, a squad of American soldiers locates a German platoon hoping to surrender rather than be a part of Hitler’s doomed final offensive. The two groups put aside their differences to spend Christmas together before it all goes terribly wrong.

Joyeux Noel: Christmas takes on a particular poignancy during war time. This time its French, Scottish and German soldiers who are able to take a break from their hostilities along the Western Front in WWI to reconnect with their humanity.

Bad Santa: A drunken conman and his sidekick pose as Santa and his helper so they can rob department stores on Christmas Eve. But their plan is complicated when they’re befriended by an eight-year-old boy. The perfect salve for cynical scrooges weary of holiday cheer.

Edward Scissorhands: While not exactly a Christmas movie, it was released on Christmas day. A modern fairy tale about a lonely man with scissors for hands. After he’s befriended by a local Avon lady he discovers the real world outside his mansion can be a cruel and unforgiving place.

Christmas Flowers France - Draw is far from Fab for Capello

2011-12-02T22:55:00.000-08:00

LET'S not start doing cartwheels quite yet.

Yes, we avoided the Group of Death of Holland, Germany, Portugal and Denmark.

And, unlike the Republic of Ireland, we weren't pitched in against world and European champions Spain, Italy and Croatia.

But hosts Ukraine (55), Sweden (18) and France (15) will pose their own huge problems for Fabio Capello's England, who are nowhere near as good as their own world ranking of fifth.

Remember the premature celebrations when we drew Algeria, Slovenia and the Yanks at the last World Cup?

Many said it was going to be easy and we struggled to even get out of the group with a squad that, on paper, looked much stronger than the current one.

When it comes to major tournaments, England too often fold under the pressure.

Yes, we beat Sweden at Wembley recently but it was still our only victory in 14 against our bogey team.

And that night the Swedes looked more interested in doing some early christmas flowers france shopping in the West End.

They were a far cry from the team that handed Holland their only defeat in qualifying. At the same time, they are an ageing side.

The last time we travelled to Ukraine, Fabio Capello lost his only qualifying game in 18 matches over two campaigns as we went down 1-0.

Only last month a strong German side had to come from 2-0 and 3-1 down to earn a draw with Ukraine in Kiev.

And don't talk about the soft French.

Yes, they were even worse than us in South Africa but, in the middle of a run that has seen them undefeated in 17 matches under Laurent Blanc, they came to Wembley in November and beat us 2-1.

In fact, a young France team gave us a lesson in both ball retention and attacking flair.

It was their fourth win against us in five games, with the other a draw.

And we definitely play France and Sweden without Wayne Rooney.

On top of that, the FA's decision to base the squad in the Polish city of Krakow means three long flights to the Ukrainian cities of Donetsk and Kiev — the two games in Donetsk a 2,000-mile round trip.

But at the centre of it all is our dire record at major tournaments.

And the Euros, lest we forget, is the one we REALLY struggle at.

Not only have we never won it but we have never even got to the final.

The Danes have won it, the Czechs have won it, even the Greeks have won it — while the Germans have triumphed three times and made three other finals.

Since 1980, we have not made it out of the group stage four times. We haven't even qualified twice.

Low points are more easily recognisable.

Which leaves the high spots of a quarter-final (2004) and a semi-final (1996 on home soil).

Mind you, we came third in 1968 — when four countries entered.

ike 1988, when we lost all three group games to the Republic of Ireland, Holland and the old Soviet Union.

Like 1992, when we again finished bottom of the group in a tournament that gave us 'Swedes 2 Turnips 1'.

Like 2000, when we led Portugal 2-0 only to lose 3-2 and then went home after Phil Neville conceded an 89th-minute penalty as Romania won 3-2 in Charleroi.

In the overall league tables of games played at the Euros, we sit NINTH. P23, W7, D7, L9.

So, no, we haven't exactly covered ourselves in glory. At the same time, the draw could have been a lot worse.

We will expect to qualify. But don't bank on it.

England on paper and England in reality are two different teams
christmas flowers france blogs

Skiing price war breaks out

2011-12-02T02:12:00.000-08:00

Ski companies are offering week-long holidays to the Alps over christmas flowers france and New Year at half price or less, with one selling a £945 full-board week-long holiday in France for just £399.

Meanwhile skiing holidays in Bulgaria are growing in popularity, largely because of the low cost.

Research released yesterday showed that the cost of a lift pass, boot hire and ski school for a family of four in the Bulgarian resort of Bansko costs just £800 a week.

This is almost half the equivalent cost in France - £1,520 – and a fraction of the £1,764 that it costs to fund a family skiing holiday in Switzerland.

Sarah Munro, head of travel money at the Post Office, which released the Family Ski Resort Report, said that the cost of taking a family skiing has fallen by up to 20 per cent over the last two years, due in part to the arrival of new destinations such as Bulgaria.

“This is welcome news for cash-conscious family skiers. Prices are more competitive than before in the bargain hunter’s report of Bansko in Bulgaria,” said Ms Munro.

Recent figures suggest that France’s dominance as a skiing destination is being threatened by the rise of Central European countries such as Bulgaria and Slovenia.

While France remains the most popular destination for British skiers, its share of the market dropped to 38 per cent last year, its lowest since 2005, according to the Ski Club of Great Britain. Meanwhile Bulgaria now accounts for 4 per cent of the market from a standing start a few years ago.

The start of the ski season in the Alps has also been affected by a lack of snow. According to local reports, the mountains have had the worst start of a winter season for 147 years. One ski expert said yesterday that only a third of the resorts have enough snow to ski.

A general slump in consumer demand has hit bookings to Europe. One tour operator said that the prices of holidays to Alpine resorts started to be heavily discounted last week.

Alpine operators have reacted by significantly cutting their prices.

“It is jittery out there. There’s a bit of panic,” said one ski company executive.

Some ski resorts have launched their own incentives to drum up custom. Davos, the upmarket resort in Switzerland, is offering free lift passes to every visitor for much of December.

Bookings have also been hit by a quirk in the calendar which means that Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve fall on Saturdays, which is traditionally transfer day at skiing resorts.

Tour operators have found that people are unwilling to spend these crucial days in the christmas flowers france blogs schedule either on an aeroplane or a cold bus winding up or down a mountain range.

Britons are tightening their belts in the face of declining disposable incomes. Research out yesterday from Expedia, the travel company, showed that one in five Britons have stopped planning holidays in advance due to worries over the economy.

A spokesman for Crystal Ski, which is offering seven nights in Andorra for as little as £199, said: “Coupled with the recession and the euro in turmoil, people are holing back on what they are buying.”

However the spokesman added that sales were about flat on last year.

Veronique Kanel, spokeswoman for Swiss Tourism, said there was no cause for alarm yet.

"However, should this situation last until mid-December, the lack of snow coupled with the strong Swiss franc would be extremely worrying," she said.

Family affairs with Susan Hetherington

2011-11-30T03:02:00.000-08:00

Studies across the world are showing that not only are kids staying at home longer but they are likely to return after you've got rid of them. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare this week found that one million young adults aged 18-34 are still living in the family home. One in ten children or 665,000 over 25 are at home 25, up from 7 per cent in four years. Recently released US Census figures show the same thing. The percentage of men age 25 to 34 living in the home of their parents rose from 14 percent in 2005 to 19 percent in 2011 and from 8 percent to 10 percent over the same period for women. Many of those who have left are coming back - a phenomenon known as boomerang kids. This is now such an issue that US that home builders are now adding ranges of multigenerational homes with separate entrances etc (sort of granny flat only for adult children). There is also a website for dealing with adult children living at home with a set of "rules" or guidelines you might consider.

When I grow up I want to be...

A sports star. Almost one in four Aussie kids (23%) wants to be a sports star when they grow up, and more than a third (36%) would spend a free day playing sport or other physical activity. ChildFund Alliance surveyed 4,600 children aged 10-12 from 44 countries around the world. The story is very different in developing countries where children would prefer to be teachers (23%) or doctors (20%), and one in four (25%) say they would spend a free day helping their family by doing housework, farmwork or other chores. The results show that Aussie kids place huge importance on sports and have much more freedom and opportunity to play than children in developing countries.

Bright from birth

Leaving two years between children improves the older child's school results, according to a new US study. Academics from Notre Dame University in Indiana have found that children who were born at least two years before their younger sibling achieved higher grades in maths and reading than those born closer together. The study, published in a forthcoming issue of the Journal of Human Resources, analysed data from more than 3,000 women and 5,000 children.

Big families are good for Mums

Research involving 1300 women in California suggested those who had four or more children were one third less likely to due from cardiovascular disease with mothers of large families were almost 50 per cent less likely to die of a stroke. Researchers predict that it may be that having higher levels of hormones associated with pregnancy circulating in the body for longer may leave lasting benefits on the body's blood vessels.

Susan's scary statistic

19% of kids aged 2-5 know how to play a smartphone app; 9% know how to tie their shoelaces.

We've seen A Frosty christmas flowers france

Fame Theatre's travelling Christmas show from next Tuesday to Friday (Today at QUT, Thursday and Friday at UQ) There is something very special about being in a theatre packed with children laughing, singing, booing and generally going off in a celebration of the action unfolding on the stage in front of them. That's exactly what happened yesterday at the performance of Fame Theatre Company's travelling Christmas show a Frosty Christmas. The evil Jack Frost freezes Santa in an attempt to hijack Christmas and score all the presents for himself. The elves travel back to christmas flowers france blogs past to try to find the answeres they need to save Christmas The cast of 25 singers, dancers and actors from Fame Theatre Company explore the origin of the Santa Claus legend and the theme of good versus evil. The reaction of the audience proves that the kids - mostly aged from prep to about Year 3, very much enjoyed going along for the ride. But just one thing - when the time travelling elves were communicating back with the North Pole they were connected with a loud dial up modem noise. I'm afraid today's kids would have no idea what that noise is. The elves needs a smart phone or tablet computer. Gardens Theatre, QUT Gardens Point Campus today at (9.30am & 11.15am). Schonell Theatre, BLD 22/Level 3 Union Complex, Union Rd, University of Queensland, St Lucia. 1 & 2 Dec (9.30am & 11.15am). 1 & 2 Dec (9.30am & 11.15am).

This week

Pip & Pop We miss you magic land! A new exhibition for children at the Children's Art Centre At Goma until March 4

For our GoMA Turns 5 celebrations, the Children's Art Centre invited Perth-based artist duo Pip & Pop (Tanya Schultz and Nicole Andrijevic) to transform the Park Level into a large-scale installation especially for children and families. Drawing on children's fairy tales from all over the world, creation myths, Buddhist cosmologies and video games, Pip & Pop create magical lands coloured with a bright, often fluorescent palette. Adopting the expression 'more is more', Pip & Pop have transformed hundreds of objects and craft materials into beautiful, glittery worlds for 'we miss you magic land!'. Using cake decorating tools, they funnelled rainbow-coloured sugar crystals, fine sands and glitter to create lacy patterned hilltops and valleys, dotting them with artificial flowers, plastic trinkets, crystals and sequins. The finished result is a series of delightful magical worlds where make-believe becomes a part of reality.

Christmas by the Sea Scarborough Beach Park Landsborough Avenue, Scarborough from noon to 8pm on Saturday

Christmas by the sea is a free Christmas event for the whole family to enjoy. Celebrated at Scarborough Beach Park, Christmas by the sea offers a street parade, twelve days of Christmas panto, The Twine, Seaside Orchestra, Chrislyn Hamilton and a fantastic fireoworks display!

Swan Lake by Queensland Ballet at the Playhouse QPAC from Saturday until December 21

Swan Lake holds a cherished place in Queensland Ballet's repertoire. Francois Klaus's spectacular interpretation of this classic ballet honours its rich choreographic heritage (including the traditional 'White Swans' second act), while deftly creating a new narrative that culminates in the migration of the great Russian ballet tradition to the Western world. Ballerina Mathilde Kschessinska was one of the stars of The Imperial Ballet in its golden years of the late 19th century. While living in exile in France after the Russian Revolution, she wrote a memoir of her life and romance with Tsar Nicholas II. Francois Klaus saw parallels between their tragic story and the tale of doomed love between the Swan Queen, Odette, and Prince Siegfried. His ballet chronicles an epic story of devotion and betrayal, with lavish sets and costumes, thrilling dance and the glorious music of Tchaikovsky.

Steam Train Sunday at Roma Street this weekend

All aboard! Travel through Brisbane on an historic steam train and relive the splendour of a bygone era. It's BIG LOUD FUN as you board the steam train from Roma Street Station for a one hour trip through the City. Pass through twenty stations and enjoy two river crossings on your journey aboard vintage carriages. There are 3 trips per day departing at: 10:10am, 11:40am and 1:10pm. Bookings are essential. Adults $19.00, Children $11.00, Concession $16.00, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) $57.00

Stuart Little at Brisbane Arts theatre until December 23

Size isn't everything, but Stuart Little will prove he can be the mouse that roars in this classic tale by E B White. This musical performance is suitable for children of all ages. Adults $20, Children $16

The Great Moscow Circus until December 4 at Marchant Park, Ellison Road, Chermside

The Performers will astound you with a thrilling combination of acrobatic artistry, along with Incredible magical illusions - " It's not possible how do they do that?" Not only does the Great Moscow circus feature sensational death defying acts.... The Wheel of Death, but wait! The Grande Finale, the Highly Tuned Spectacular of Four Daredevil Motorbike's from Brazil in the splitting 'Globe of Death' never seen before in Australia. Watch in wonderment.... spellbound, at the precision juggling, silks, hula hoops Cubes, and the famous statue act, not forgetting the clowns, who will leave you in stitches! If you thought you had laughed enough wait for the Wacky Ringmaster with his trampoline and the fastest somersault in the world! Tickets are available on Ticketek 132 849 (132 TIX) or 0429 MOSCOW (667269) Child $16 (B Reserve), $27 (A Reserve), $32 (Ringside), $42 (VIP Ringside); Adult $25 (B Reserve), $42 (A Reserve), $50 (Ringside), $60 (VIP Ringside); Family Pass $120 (A Reserve 2 adult + 2 children). Wed-Fri 7.30pm; Sat 1pm, 4pm, 7.30pm; Sun 12pm, 3pm

Rock of Ages at the Lyric Theatre QPAC Until December 4

For a person for whom the 80s represented the university years, a musical about decade's rock anthems should be a sure fire winner. We Built This City, Don't Stop Believin', The Final Countdown, I Want to Know What Love is - there is no denying this juke box musical ticks the boxes when it comes to music that will make you want to get out of your seat and start rocking. There are some awesome performers, terrific singers and great dancers - yes there's so much to like about Rock of Ages. And I did like it BUT, and this is a big BUT, it isn't very good. The plot is very, very thin and for no particularly good reason most of the females in the cast spend most of the time wearing very little. Big hair was very 80s. I can't remember strippers being a particular feature of the decade. Bottom line. If you like 80s music you will like Rock of Ages but be careful before you decide to use it to introduce your kids to the decade. Promotional material says " ROCK OF AGES is a celebration of the great rock music of the '80s and consequently includes strong language, sexual references, adult themes like smoking, drinking, and frequent use of strobe lighting. This is not recommended for Children under the age of 12." Student tickets from $39. Tickets up to $130

How to make a Monster - free exhibition at Pine Rivers Heritage Museum Old Petrie Town, Dayboro Road, Whiteside from Saturday until January 29, 2012

Discover the skills and processes involved in bringing a creature from the written page to the silver screen in this fascinating 'behind the scenes' exhibition. How to Make a Monster features the work of John Cox, Academy Award winner for Visual Effects (for the movie Babe), and his company John Cox's Creature Workshop. It reveals how monsters and creatures are designed and story-boarded, maquettes made and then how the full size creatures are sculpted, moulded, and finished. See how animatronic components are designed and installed to create the bones and muscles that bring monsters to life.

58 seconds of silence for massacre victims

2011-11-23T03:27:00.000-08:00

MANILA, Philippines - The Ampatuan massacre trial resumed Wednesday at Camp Bagong Diwa, with prosecutors asking for 58 seconds of silence during the hearing in memory of the 58 victims of the massacre.

Some families of the victims who attended the hearing expressed dismay that justice has remained elusive 2 years after the killings.

Catherine Nuñez, mother of television reporter Victor Nuñez who perished in the tragedy, couldn't hold back her tears.

She said this is the third christmas flowers france that their family will spend without Victor.

55,000 years to resolve?

One of the victims' lawyers, Atty. Harry Roque, has claimed that it may take 55,000 years for the cases to be resolved because of the the sheer number of the accused (197), arrested (93 with only 64 arraigned), and witnesses (500).

On Wednesday, Roque filed a motion for the partial declaration of judgment that he hopes can help hasten the judicial process.

During the hearing, Army Major Peter Navarro, executive officer of the 64 Infantry Battalion, identified Police Inspector Rex Ariel Diongon, Inspector Julius Macaraeg, Chief Inspector Sukarno Dicay, and Senior Police Officer 2 Badawi Bakal as the police officers assigned at a checkpoint along Masalay Highway near where the massacre occurred.

Navarro said Sukarno denied that an abduction had taken place.

However, when the military went to the scene of the carnage in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan town, they found the lifeless bodies of the victims sprawled across the area.

Only 2 main suspects arraigned so far

Two years after the killings, only 2 of the main suspects from the Ampatuan clan have been arraigned.

The key suspect in the massacre, Andal Ampatuan Jr., has not yet been arraigned. Of the 196 total suspects, only 95 have been arrested.

Malacañang wants the trial of the Maguindanao massacre be fast-tracked up, and hopes that the judiciary can do something about it.

"We would wish that the judicial process be fast-tracked. This case is not in the hands entirely of the executive branch or the prosecution. It is within the discretion of the trial judge, it is within the discretion of the judiciary," Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Wednesday.

"We ourselves in the prosecution, we ourselves in the executive branch, we share the public's concern that this case is taking so long, and we would hope that the judiciary would take a second look at the pace of the trial so that justice would be obtained within this term, within the administration of President Aquino," he added.

Remembering the slain

Activities were held nationwide Wednesday to remember the victims in the massacre, particularly the 32 journalists who were slain. One other journalist remains missing.

In Ampatuan town where the killings occurred, hundreds of people, including the victims' relatives, attended an interfaith event and offered flowers and candles. White balloons and doves were also released.

In Metro Manila, activist groups and media organizations led by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, and the National Press Club held similar events.

A mass and candle-lighting ceremony was held for the victims and a memorial marker was unveiled to honor their memory.

The victims' kin, journalists, and activists also marched on España to Mendiola to highlight their call for the Aquino administration to ensure swift justice is served.

ABS-CBN anchors Ted Failon and Korina Sanchez said at the start of TV Patrol's November 23 newscast that the Kapamilya network was one with other media organizations in commemorating the 2nd year after Maguindanao massacre, the worst violence ever perpetrated against journalists worldwide.

Int'l Day to End Impunity christmas flowers france blogs

Journalists worldwide are also marking November 23 as the first International Day to End Impunity, with the massacre becoming the focus of campaigns for justice for slain media workers in various countries.

"Two years on, dozens of suspects remain at large, including members of the Ampatuan family. The trials have been painfully slow, and attempts to subvert the judicial process - with bribes, threats and intimidation of families and witnesses - continue. The Ampatuans have been linked to at least 56 other killings over the past 20 years," the International Federation of Journalists and the International Freedom of Expression Exchange said in a letter campaign

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), 65 media workers who have been killed in the Philippines since 1992 have yet to find justice as their killers have remained at large.

The CPJ said only 7 of the 72 total cases of journalists' murders in the Philippines have been solved since 1992.

The Senate on Wednesday also adopted a resolution declaring November 23 every year as the national day to end impunity.

Resolution 642, filed by Sen. Francis Pangilinan, calls on Filipinos to never forget the Ampatuan massacre.

Use 'Arroyo standard'

Activist group Akbayan said prosecutors should use the speed of former President Gloria Arroyo's arrest for alleged electoral sabotage as its "gold standard" in dispensing justice to the victims of the Ampatuan massacre.

"Now that the wheels of justice have made huge strides against Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, we should now ensure the same against all those who were given the widest latitude to commit crimes under her term. We cannot expect to call the triumph of justice against Arroyo complete if we cannot say the same against the Ampatuans," the group said.

"An Arroyo conviction, which is the greatest statement of repudiation of Arroyo's legacy of corruption and impunity, can only be possible with an Ampatuan conviction," the group said.

"It should not be forgotten that this crime was perpetrated during the term of Arroyo and [those] who committed it empowered by her," Akbayan said.

"It was Arroyo who gave them the resources and license to terrorize the citizenry of Maguindanao. It was her impunity and brazen violation of rights that inspired and emboldened the Ampatuans to believe that they are above the law. Their warlordism reflected the same kind of rule that the Arroyo administration dispensed. As much as this is a case against the Ampatuans, this is also a case against Arroyo."

Relatives of some of the massacre victims on Tuesday sued Arroyo on Tuesday for arming and supporting the alleged murderers, their lawyer said.

The civil suit is seeking P15 million in damages from the former President.

"She enabled the Ampatuans to do what they did by arming them, by legitimizing their private army, by giving them aid and by giving them political support," Roque said. - with reports from Jing Castañeda, Jeff Canoy, Willard Cheng, and Ryan Chua, ABS-CBN News; Lore Mae Andong, ABS-CBN News Central Mindanao; Agence France-Presse