Take responsibility for your last bad decision, and then let it go. Don't blame others or make excuses for yourself. - Deepak Chopra
Having a grievance or a resentment is like drinking poison and thinking it will kill your enemy. - Nelson Mandela
Laughter is an instant vacation. - Milton Berle
"You fight for your life because the fighter never quits. You make the most of the hand you're dealt because the quitter never wins." - Kerry Kelemen
^Positively Positive^
One of our fans reached out to us this week sharing her friend Kerry Keleman's story. Kerry has been dealt some difficult cards yet remains Positively Positive. She was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia last year on April 25th, her 24th birthday. When she discovered her blood type was B+, she fittingly made her slogan "Be Positive!". Through it all her courage, strength, humor and attitude remains incredibly inspiring. To rally the support and positivity Kerry needs, her friends started the FB page Dropkick Cancer for Kerry Kelemen
What if what you are worried about right now is just an illusion...?
I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but we are well equipped for it if only we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom. - Les Brown
True words are not always pretty; pretty words are not always true.
Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep. - Scott Adams
Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. - Howard Thurman
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
dreams 11/3/10
ok i had really odd dreams
1. My friend and her daughter got in a car accident and died
To dream of a car accident, symbolizes your emotional state. You may be harboring deep anxieties and fears. Are you "driving" yourself too hard? This dream may tell you to slow down before you hit disaster. You need to rethink or re-plan your course of actions and set yourself on a better path.
To dream about the death of a loved one, suggests that you are lacking a certain aspect or quality that the loved one embodies. Ask yourself what makes this person special or what you like about them. It is that very quality that you are lacking in your own relationship or circumstances. Alternatively, the dream indicates that whatever that person represents has no part in your own life anymore.
To dream that you are crying, signifies a release of negative emotions that is more likely caused by some waking situation rather than the events of the dream itself. Your dream is a way to regain some emotional balance and to safely let out your fears and frustrations. In your daily lives, you tend to ignore, deny, or repress your feelings. But in your dream state, your defense mechanisms are no longer on guard and thus allow for the release of those feelings that you have repressed during the day.
2. My childhood turtle was still alive but not taken care of so i gave him new water and washed him off. He was so happy to see me and cleaned up like new
To see a turtle in your dream, symbolizes wisdom, faithfulness, longevity, and loyalty. It also suggests that you need to take it slow in some situation or relationship in your life. With time and patience, you will make steady progress. Alternatively, a turtle indicates that you are sheltering yourself from the realities of life. You are putting forth a hard exterior and not letting others in. As a result, you are feeling withdrawn.
To dream that you feel guilty about something, relates to how you are handling your successes and failures or competence and incompetence. You may feel undeserving of your achievements. Or on the other hand, you feel that you have let others down. Alternatively, the dream is symbolic of repressed and negative feelings that you may have about yourself.
To see a smiley face in your dream, symbolizes approval and validation of your actions. The dream symbol is providing you with reassurance that you are on the right track.
To see water in your dream, symbolizes your unconscious and your emotional state of mind. Water is the living essence of the psyche and the flow of life energy. It is also symbolic of spirituality, knowledge, healing and refreshment. To dream that water is boiling, suggests that you are expressing some emotional turmoil. Feelings from your unconscious are surfacing and ready to be acknowledged. You need to let out some steam. To see calm, clear water in your dream, means that you are in tune with your spirituality. It denotes serenity, peace of mind, and rejuvenation.
To see muddy or dirty water in your dream, indicates that you are wallowing in your negative emotions. You may need to take some time to cleanse your mind and find internal peace. Alternatively, the dream suggests that your thinking/judgment is unclear and clouded. If you are immersed in muddy water, then it indicates that you are in over your head in a situation and are overwhelmed by your emotions. To dream that water is rising up in your house, suggests that you are becoming overwhelmed by your emotions.
To hear running water in your dream, denotes meditation and reflection. You are reflecting on your thoughts and emotions.
3. I had no where to get ready so i broke into our old apartment, cleaned myself up, brushed my teeth and hair, washed my face, was about to put on makeup, but got caught by the landlord
To dream that you are washing yourself, indicates that you are proud of your social life and personal endeavors. You may even receive some recognition and prestige. Alternatively, the dream represents the cleansing away of unhappy experiences or neglected emotions in your life. You are ready to make a fresh new start.
To see or use a toothbrush in your dream, suggests that you are feeling defensive about any criticism directed towards you. You are putting up a shield or barrier to protect yourself from potential hurt. Alternatively, the dream means that you are preoccupied with your appearance and are worried about how others perceive you.
To dream that you are brushing your hair, suggests your need to organize and sort your thoughts. You need to search for some elements that are not clear. Brushing you hair may also highlight your preoccupation with appearances and beauty over substance and quality.
To dream that you are applying makeup, suggests that you are trying to cover up or conceal an aspect of yourself. Alternatively, it indicates that you are putting on your best face forward. You are trying to enhance your self-image and increase your sense of self-confidence. The dream may also be a metaphor that you need to "make up" with someone. It is time to forgive and forget.
To dream about an apartment, symbolizes a financial or situational state. To dream of a large, lavish apartment, indicates an increase to your financial situation or an improvement to your family life. To dream of a shabby and dark apartment, indicates misfortune and possible loss.
To dream of a discovery, indicates that you are a entering a new phase of life or a new phase of personal development. Alternatively, the dream suggests you have uncovered an aspect of yourself which is significant to your waking life.
To dream that you have been ambushed, forewarns of a danger lurking near you. Your situation has taken an unanticipated turn for the worse. You have been prevented from reaching your goals or destination.
To dream that you are hiding, suggests that you are keeping some secret or withholding some information. You may not be facing up to a situation or dealing with some issue. However, you may be getting ready to reveal something and confess before somebody finds out. In particular, to dream that you are hiding from some authority figure (police, parent, teacher...), implies feelings of guilt.
1. My friend and her daughter got in a car accident and died
To dream of a car accident, symbolizes your emotional state. You may be harboring deep anxieties and fears. Are you "driving" yourself too hard? This dream may tell you to slow down before you hit disaster. You need to rethink or re-plan your course of actions and set yourself on a better path.
To dream about the death of a loved one, suggests that you are lacking a certain aspect or quality that the loved one embodies. Ask yourself what makes this person special or what you like about them. It is that very quality that you are lacking in your own relationship or circumstances. Alternatively, the dream indicates that whatever that person represents has no part in your own life anymore.
To dream that you are crying, signifies a release of negative emotions that is more likely caused by some waking situation rather than the events of the dream itself. Your dream is a way to regain some emotional balance and to safely let out your fears and frustrations. In your daily lives, you tend to ignore, deny, or repress your feelings. But in your dream state, your defense mechanisms are no longer on guard and thus allow for the release of those feelings that you have repressed during the day.
2. My childhood turtle was still alive but not taken care of so i gave him new water and washed him off. He was so happy to see me and cleaned up like new
To see a turtle in your dream, symbolizes wisdom, faithfulness, longevity, and loyalty. It also suggests that you need to take it slow in some situation or relationship in your life. With time and patience, you will make steady progress. Alternatively, a turtle indicates that you are sheltering yourself from the realities of life. You are putting forth a hard exterior and not letting others in. As a result, you are feeling withdrawn.
To dream that you feel guilty about something, relates to how you are handling your successes and failures or competence and incompetence. You may feel undeserving of your achievements. Or on the other hand, you feel that you have let others down. Alternatively, the dream is symbolic of repressed and negative feelings that you may have about yourself.
To see a smiley face in your dream, symbolizes approval and validation of your actions. The dream symbol is providing you with reassurance that you are on the right track.
To see water in your dream, symbolizes your unconscious and your emotional state of mind. Water is the living essence of the psyche and the flow of life energy. It is also symbolic of spirituality, knowledge, healing and refreshment. To dream that water is boiling, suggests that you are expressing some emotional turmoil. Feelings from your unconscious are surfacing and ready to be acknowledged. You need to let out some steam. To see calm, clear water in your dream, means that you are in tune with your spirituality. It denotes serenity, peace of mind, and rejuvenation.
To see muddy or dirty water in your dream, indicates that you are wallowing in your negative emotions. You may need to take some time to cleanse your mind and find internal peace. Alternatively, the dream suggests that your thinking/judgment is unclear and clouded. If you are immersed in muddy water, then it indicates that you are in over your head in a situation and are overwhelmed by your emotions. To dream that water is rising up in your house, suggests that you are becoming overwhelmed by your emotions.
To hear running water in your dream, denotes meditation and reflection. You are reflecting on your thoughts and emotions.
3. I had no where to get ready so i broke into our old apartment, cleaned myself up, brushed my teeth and hair, washed my face, was about to put on makeup, but got caught by the landlord
To dream that you are washing yourself, indicates that you are proud of your social life and personal endeavors. You may even receive some recognition and prestige. Alternatively, the dream represents the cleansing away of unhappy experiences or neglected emotions in your life. You are ready to make a fresh new start.
To see or use a toothbrush in your dream, suggests that you are feeling defensive about any criticism directed towards you. You are putting up a shield or barrier to protect yourself from potential hurt. Alternatively, the dream means that you are preoccupied with your appearance and are worried about how others perceive you.
To dream that you are brushing your hair, suggests your need to organize and sort your thoughts. You need to search for some elements that are not clear. Brushing you hair may also highlight your preoccupation with appearances and beauty over substance and quality.
To dream that you are applying makeup, suggests that you are trying to cover up or conceal an aspect of yourself. Alternatively, it indicates that you are putting on your best face forward. You are trying to enhance your self-image and increase your sense of self-confidence. The dream may also be a metaphor that you need to "make up" with someone. It is time to forgive and forget.
To dream about an apartment, symbolizes a financial or situational state. To dream of a large, lavish apartment, indicates an increase to your financial situation or an improvement to your family life. To dream of a shabby and dark apartment, indicates misfortune and possible loss.
To dream of a discovery, indicates that you are a entering a new phase of life or a new phase of personal development. Alternatively, the dream suggests you have uncovered an aspect of yourself which is significant to your waking life.
To dream that you have been ambushed, forewarns of a danger lurking near you. Your situation has taken an unanticipated turn for the worse. You have been prevented from reaching your goals or destination.
To dream that you are hiding, suggests that you are keeping some secret or withholding some information. You may not be facing up to a situation or dealing with some issue. However, you may be getting ready to reveal something and confess before somebody finds out. In particular, to dream that you are hiding from some authority figure (police, parent, teacher...), implies feelings of guilt.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
LOSING WATER WEIGHT
#430 10/20/2010 LOSING WATER WEIGHT | Tell a friend |
Could Those Extra Pounds Be Water Weight? Lose 'Em Fast!By Debra PivkoEver wonder how you gained 5 pounds overnight—even when you're cutting calories? The usual culprit is water weight. If your stomach feels bloated, your face looks puffy, or your hands and feet swell, it's likely that your body is retaining water. And this may show up on the scale as a few extra pounds. Not fun. Here's why it happens. Your body is constantly trying to rid itself of the salt you consume. When it can't purge all the extra salt, your tissues react by holding on to water, so the ratio of salt to water is always at a safe level. But if you want to determine your real weight, see how close you are to your fitness goals, and button up those old jeans with ease, follow these quick tips to lose the extra water weight—fast. Drink more water.
What to do? Drink at least eight to ten glasses of water each day so your body will maintain its fluid balance, and you won't gain those extra pounds. Water is the best diuretic you can give your body and it's all natural, and usually free! If looking thinner and feeling less bloated isn't enough motivation, here's some more. Drinking water before each meal has been shown to help promote weight loss and even to help keep your skin healthy, which is particularly useful if you don't want your skin to sag once you lose weight. So keep a water bottle at your desk, send yourself "drink water" reminders if you have to, track your water intake for motivation, or do whatever it takes to remember to drink enough water. The extra hydration will prevent those false pounds from showing up on the scale. Sweat it out with exercise.When you sit in one place for a long period of time, your circulation slows down and your body can begin to swell. Exercise promotes blood flow and circulation (not to mention sweating). So when you get in some serious cardio, you'll literally sweat out excess fluids and pounds. Make sure to get your daily exercise to help rid your body of water weight.
Limit the sodium in your diet.To give your body a break from retaining water and working hard to eliminate sodium in the first place, try to keep your sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day and avoid adding salt to foods. Watch out for sneaky salt in boxed or packaged foods by reading nutrition labels carefully. Some of the foods where sodium is often hidden are canned soups, fast foods, pickled foods, processed/deli meats, cheeses, frozen meals, and soy sauce. Make sure to look for labels that say "reduced sodium" or "sodium free." You may also want to choose fresh vegetables over canned. While canned veggies can be a handy substitute for fresh, they're typically laden with preservatives or sauces and seasonings that add extra sodium. A cup of canned cream-style corn, for example, contains 730 milligrams of sodium. Also, food at restaurants and fast food establishments often contains high amounts of sodium. Eliminate all table salt and try using pepper or other spices on your food instead. Or, maybe try nothing and remind yourself what the food actually tastes like. Another great way to keep track of your sodium intake is by getting your own customized nutrition plan with Team Beachbody's My Meal Planner. It's an awesome new benefit of the Team Beachbody® Club membership. You'll get a week's worth of recipes that include low-sodium options, or you can modify and make substitutions to the recipes for even lower sodium options. I use it to track my progress throughout the week so I know all my nutrition stats. You can even use the food analyzer to search any food and get the nutrition information for it. I'm obsessed.
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It may seem counterintuitive, but not drinking enough water every day can actually make you retain more water! Dehydration causes your body to go into panic mode, and it'll hold on to water the next time you take a drink. Diuretics like alcohol, tea, and caffeinated soda can actually have a dehydrating effect on your body since they flush water out of your system.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Dreams 10/18/2010
Restaurant
To dream that you are in a restaurant, suggests that you are feeling overwhelmed by decisions and choices that you need to make in your life. Alternatively, it indicates that you are seeking for emotional nourishment outside of your social support system.
Closet
To see a closet in your dream, symbolizes something in your life that you have kept hidden. It may also signify an unveiling of previously hidden aspects of yourself, as in "coming out of the closet".
Wardrobe
To see a wardrobe in your dream, represents a transitional period or phase in your life. Alternatively, the dream may highlight issues with your self-image and how you portray yourself to the outside world.
Squirrel
To see a squirrel in your dream, indicates that you are involved in a loveless, pointless relationship or an unprofitable business project. You are pursuing empty and fruitless endeavors. Alternatively, seeing a squirrel in your dream, suggests that you are hoarding something. You are holding on to too much and need to learn to let go. On the other hand, a squirrel means that you need to reserve your time and energy.
To dream that you are trying to run over squirrels with a lawn mower, suggest that you are trying to change your beliefs and alter your ideas in order to conform to others. You are looking for some form of acceptance.
To dream that you are feeding a squirrel, denotes that comfort will come about through hard work, diligence and prudence.
Warning
To receive a warning in your dream, indicates that something in your waking life is in need of your attention. The dream may serve to make you stop and rethink the consequences of your action or decision.
To dream that you are warning someone, suggests that you need to recognize the dangers or negatives of some situation. You need to bring this to the surface.
Defend
To dream that you are defending yourself, suggests an underlying hurt. It may parallel a waking life situation where you are being put on the defensive.
To dream that you are protecting someone or something, suggests that you are putting up an emotional wall or barrier between you and others around you. Consider who or what you are protecting for clues as to what aspect of your own self you are afraid of letting out and letting others know.
Fighting
To dream that you are in a fight, indicates inner turmoil. Some aspect of yourself is in conflict with another aspect of yourself. Perhaps an unresolved or unacknowledged part is fighting for its right to be heard. It may also parallel a fight or struggle that you are going through in your waking life.
Punch
To dream that you are punching someone or something, represents hidden anger and aggression. It may also be a symbol of power and your ability to draw strength from within yourself.
Hit
To dream that you hit something or someone, is symbolic of unexpressed anger and aggression. You tend to keep your negative feelings inside instead of expressing them in a healthy way.
Attack
To dream that you attack someone, represents pent-up frustration and anger. You feel that you have been wronged. Your dream serves as an easy and safe way to express your anger.
To dream that you are being attacked by someone, indicates your character is being questioned. You feel the need to defend yourself. You are feeling stressed, vulnerable and helpless. You may also be facing with difficult changes in your waking life. Dreaming of an attack provides a way for you to confront these situations that you may be avoiding in real life.
Stepmother
To see your stepmother in your dream, suggests that you are trying to cope with a mothering figure in your life. You are either feeling smothered or neglected. If you do not have a stepmother in real life, then the dream may represent some unresolved issues and tension with your actual mother. Or the dream could be a pun that you or someone is "stepping" all over your mother. Show her some appreciation and compassion for all the work that she does.
Mother
To see your mother in your dream, represents the nurturing aspect of your own character. Mothers offer shelter, comfort, life, guidance and protection. Some people may have problems freeing themselves from their mothers and are thus seeking their own individuality and development.
Parents
To see your parents in your dream, symbolize both power, shelter, and love. You may be expressing your concerns and worries about your own parents. Alternatively, it represents the merging of the female and male aspects of your character.
Father
To see your father in your dream, symbolizes authority and protection. It suggests that you need to be more self-reliant. Consider also your waking relationship with your father and how aspects of his character may be incorporated within yourself.
To dream that you are hitting your father, represents a desperate need for greater closeness with your father. You feel that he is not listening to you.
Photograph
To see a photograph in your dream, indicates that there is a relationship that needs your attention. You are not looking deep enough into the problem. Alternatively, the dream means that you are clinging on to the past or to some false hope. Consider who or what is on the photo. The image may be trying to take you back to a particular moment in time.
Win
To dream that you win at something, indicates that you will succeed in some task. You are experiencing new found confidence in your abilities. The dream may serve to offer you encouragement and motivation. Alternatively, the dream symbolizes a sexual conquest.
Push
To dream that you are pushing something, symbolizes energy, effort, encouragement and motivation. You have a new drive to succeed in life. Consider also how you or someone in your life may be a "pushover".
To dream that you are pushed or being pushed, suggests that you are being coerced into doing something. You are facing a lot of pressure. Alternatively, the dream implies that you do not have enough time to complete a task. You strive for perfection.
Pulling
To dream that you are pulling something, refers to your burdens and struggles. You have difficulties accomplishing your tasks and goals. You need to unload and/or let go some of your responsibilities. Perhaps it is a relationship that you need to let go of. Consider also what or who you are pulling. Alternatively, the dream may be a pun on your "pull" or influence for some favor or decision.
Hair
If you are reaching for someone else's hair, then it suggests that you are trying to connect with that person on a spiritual or intellectual level. It also refers to sympathy, protectiveness, and fraternal love.
To dream that you are in a restaurant, suggests that you are feeling overwhelmed by decisions and choices that you need to make in your life. Alternatively, it indicates that you are seeking for emotional nourishment outside of your social support system.
Closet
To see a closet in your dream, symbolizes something in your life that you have kept hidden. It may also signify an unveiling of previously hidden aspects of yourself, as in "coming out of the closet".
Wardrobe
To see a wardrobe in your dream, represents a transitional period or phase in your life. Alternatively, the dream may highlight issues with your self-image and how you portray yourself to the outside world.
Squirrel
To see a squirrel in your dream, indicates that you are involved in a loveless, pointless relationship or an unprofitable business project. You are pursuing empty and fruitless endeavors. Alternatively, seeing a squirrel in your dream, suggests that you are hoarding something. You are holding on to too much and need to learn to let go. On the other hand, a squirrel means that you need to reserve your time and energy.
To dream that you are trying to run over squirrels with a lawn mower, suggest that you are trying to change your beliefs and alter your ideas in order to conform to others. You are looking for some form of acceptance.
To dream that you are feeding a squirrel, denotes that comfort will come about through hard work, diligence and prudence.
Warning
To receive a warning in your dream, indicates that something in your waking life is in need of your attention. The dream may serve to make you stop and rethink the consequences of your action or decision.
To dream that you are warning someone, suggests that you need to recognize the dangers or negatives of some situation. You need to bring this to the surface.
Defend
To dream that you are defending yourself, suggests an underlying hurt. It may parallel a waking life situation where you are being put on the defensive.
To dream that you are protecting someone or something, suggests that you are putting up an emotional wall or barrier between you and others around you. Consider who or what you are protecting for clues as to what aspect of your own self you are afraid of letting out and letting others know.
Fighting
To dream that you are in a fight, indicates inner turmoil. Some aspect of yourself is in conflict with another aspect of yourself. Perhaps an unresolved or unacknowledged part is fighting for its right to be heard. It may also parallel a fight or struggle that you are going through in your waking life.
Punch
To dream that you are punching someone or something, represents hidden anger and aggression. It may also be a symbol of power and your ability to draw strength from within yourself.
Hit
To dream that you hit something or someone, is symbolic of unexpressed anger and aggression. You tend to keep your negative feelings inside instead of expressing them in a healthy way.
Attack
To dream that you attack someone, represents pent-up frustration and anger. You feel that you have been wronged. Your dream serves as an easy and safe way to express your anger.
To dream that you are being attacked by someone, indicates your character is being questioned. You feel the need to defend yourself. You are feeling stressed, vulnerable and helpless. You may also be facing with difficult changes in your waking life. Dreaming of an attack provides a way for you to confront these situations that you may be avoiding in real life.
Stepmother
To see your stepmother in your dream, suggests that you are trying to cope with a mothering figure in your life. You are either feeling smothered or neglected. If you do not have a stepmother in real life, then the dream may represent some unresolved issues and tension with your actual mother. Or the dream could be a pun that you or someone is "stepping" all over your mother. Show her some appreciation and compassion for all the work that she does.
Mother
To see your mother in your dream, represents the nurturing aspect of your own character. Mothers offer shelter, comfort, life, guidance and protection. Some people may have problems freeing themselves from their mothers and are thus seeking their own individuality and development.
Parents
To see your parents in your dream, symbolize both power, shelter, and love. You may be expressing your concerns and worries about your own parents. Alternatively, it represents the merging of the female and male aspects of your character.
Father
To see your father in your dream, symbolizes authority and protection. It suggests that you need to be more self-reliant. Consider also your waking relationship with your father and how aspects of his character may be incorporated within yourself.
To dream that you are hitting your father, represents a desperate need for greater closeness with your father. You feel that he is not listening to you.
Photograph
To see a photograph in your dream, indicates that there is a relationship that needs your attention. You are not looking deep enough into the problem. Alternatively, the dream means that you are clinging on to the past or to some false hope. Consider who or what is on the photo. The image may be trying to take you back to a particular moment in time.
Win
To dream that you win at something, indicates that you will succeed in some task. You are experiencing new found confidence in your abilities. The dream may serve to offer you encouragement and motivation. Alternatively, the dream symbolizes a sexual conquest.
Push
To dream that you are pushing something, symbolizes energy, effort, encouragement and motivation. You have a new drive to succeed in life. Consider also how you or someone in your life may be a "pushover".
To dream that you are pushed or being pushed, suggests that you are being coerced into doing something. You are facing a lot of pressure. Alternatively, the dream implies that you do not have enough time to complete a task. You strive for perfection.
Pulling
To dream that you are pulling something, refers to your burdens and struggles. You have difficulties accomplishing your tasks and goals. You need to unload and/or let go some of your responsibilities. Perhaps it is a relationship that you need to let go of. Consider also what or who you are pulling. Alternatively, the dream may be a pun on your "pull" or influence for some favor or decision.
Hair
If you are reaching for someone else's hair, then it suggests that you are trying to connect with that person on a spiritual or intellectual level. It also refers to sympathy, protectiveness, and fraternal love.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Dreams 10/16/2010
So, I had a dream that there were these two asian girls, one prettier than the other, who me and nick ran into at this really swank, large, glamorous hotel. They were both really nice and friendly and pretty one was a little too friendly with nick. She was talking to both of us at first saying how great of couple we were and how he was so lucky to have me and vice versa but then started talking to nick exclusively and he looks a little uncomfortable or uneasy, almost nervous and guilty.
I'm talking to her (less pretty) friend and I couldn't help but notice her and nick. Nick seemed rather closed off but she was really chatting up a storm with him. Her friend noticed me watching and starts saying stuff like "oh yeah, she does that, she just always wants to test her boundaries and what she can't or can have. I don't get it. If she wasn't my friend I'd smack her on her pretty little head." I said something along the lines of, "yeah, I know girls like that too." Nick looks as if he's
Then, she grabs Nick by the face and presses her whole body onto him and starts kissing him passionately. Here's the kicker: Nick nor I really react like we should!!!! Nick just calmly pushes her away with mild force and tells her "no" as if he was telling storm to get off the couch. He looks at me then distances himself only a couple feet away from her but stays as she looks at him adoringly. I stand there a few seconds, shocked and furious, as her friend is outraged she just did that, "Are you just going to let her get away with that? If that was my husband I wouldn't just stand here like you are now! Aren't you going to do anything?" In a tone that is so calm it surprises me, i say, "No, what's the point? I trust my husband. He'd never cheat on me. She just made a fool of herself." Inside I start to have sneaking suspicions as I don't understand why he isn't walking away from her after the little stunt she pulled, then i get really mad and sad so I walk away half hoping he'll follow, but really, I just don't want to see the sight of them anymore but he stays with her instead of following me. He doesn't even ask or seem to care about how I am feeling. I am hurt of his lack of actions. I don't know, if I were him I'd yell at her, ask her what the hell is wrong with her, try to explain what happened was forced upon, and ditch the inappropriate bitch to be with my spouse. But he does NOTHING.
I do turn back one time to ask her friend one thing, "do they work together?" and she says "no." For some reason this calms me a tiny bit because that means that she won't be constantly interacting with him every day. Nevertheless, I am still furious of what happened and need to remove myself so I make way through elevators, escalators, and lobbies until I get to the restaurant the four of us were going to go together. Standing there for a few minutes, I compose myself and try to digest what the hell is and might be going on. Nick and the two girls arrive. I see them and can't stand the sight of them so without telling them, I just go into the restaurant next door where incidentally someone I know is there. It's a less fancy more quiet and down to earth family restaurant that offers asian food and I decide to join him (Jason). I'm still angry but I want to focus on my company and calming myself so we make small chitchat but then, for some reason I can't stop burping! Not normal burps but the gurgling kind I usually do. I cannot stop! I cover my mouth and even put my head down on the dining table and I even try to cover my head while it's down with my arms but everyone can hear me. I am embarrassed but I start laughing because...well, it was funny! A few others start laughing and chuckling then I feel a bit better.
The scene changes and Nick and I are in a courtroom in front a judge. We are separating or getting a divorce. The pretty asian girl's friend for some reason is there with me. I think we became friends maybe. She mentions what happened that on night out at the hotel and the judge raises an eyebrow at nick. She says, "is this true? why would you do nothing when something like that happened?" I say "it's true" and nick just shrugs. For some odd reason the judge says he could be suffering from a medical condition that may not have allowed him to react appropriately to the situation. She orders he get tested for further judgement.
That's the end of the dream. Below are some of the translations of elements involved by dreammoods.com
What do you think of it all? i can't quite figure it out.
Hotel
To see a hotel in your dream, signifies a new state of mind or a shift in personal identity. You are undergoing some sort of transition and need to move away from your old habits and old way of thinking. You need to temporarily escape from your daily life. Alternatively, the dream may imply a loss in your personal identity.
Asian
To see an Asian person in your dream, represents an aspect of your own self that is unknown to you. Additionally, to see an elderly Asian person, represents tradition, wisdom and knowledge.
Cheating
To dream that your mate, spouse, or significant other is cheating on you, indicates your fears of being abandoned. You may feel a lack of attention in the relationship. Alternatively, you may feel that you are not measuring up to the expectations of others. This notion may stem from issues of trust or self-esteem. The dream could also indicate that you are unconsciously picking up hints and cues that your significant other is not being completely truthful or is not fully committed in the relationship.
Elevator
To dream that you are ascending in an elevator, represents a rise to status and wealth. You may have risen to a higher level of consciousness and are looking at the world from an elevated viewpoint. If the elevator is moving upward in an out of control fashion or it crashes through the roof, then it indicates that you are being catapulted to a position of power in which you do not yet know how to deal with. You are afraid of the new responsibilities ahead for you. Descending in an elevator, suggests that you are being grounded or coming back down to reality. It also signifies setbacks and misfortunes.
In general, the up and down action of the elevator represents the ups and downs of your life. It also symbolizes emotions and thoughts that are emerging out of and submerging into your subconscious. Alternatively, the dream may have sexual connotations.
To dream that the elevator is out of order or that it is not letting you off, symbolizes that your emotions have gotten out of control. It may be a reflection of your life or your career. You are feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, whether it is your career, relationship, etc.
To dream that the elevator is moving sideways, means that your efforts are counterproductive. You are going nowhere in your work, relationship or other situation.
Escalator
To see an escalator in your dream, indicates movement between various levels of consciousness. If you are moving up in the escalator, then it suggests that you are addressing and confronting emotional issues. You are moving through your spiritual journey with great progress and ease. If you are going down the escalator, then it implies repression and descent back into your unconscious. You may be experiencing a setback.
Court
To dream that you are in court standing up for charges against you, signifies your struggle with issues of fear and guilt. A situation or circumstance in your life is giving you much distress and worry. You feel that you are being judged in some way and need to defend yourself.
Judgment
To dream that you are being judged, indicates that you are being put through some test. You are seeking acceptance in order to move forward.
Judge
To see a judge in your dream, denotes feelings of guilt. You are afraid of getting caught. Your dream may be helping and guiding you toward making better judgments. Alternatively, a judge indicates your insecurities and concerns of being judged or criticized for your actions. On a more direct note, your dream may indicate that waking disputes be resolved through some legal proceedings.
Divorce
To dream that you are getting a divorce, indicates that you need to differentiate between things in your life and prioritize them. Perhaps you need to separate yourself from some issue or some aspect of yourself. Alternatively, the dream suggests that you have a fear of separation or fear of being alone. You may be unsatisfied with your present relationship.
Divorce dreams may reflect real-life events and the stress that it brings. You may be wondering if you have made a mistake in some situation or decision Divorce dreams suggest a transitional phase. It is time to change your old habits.
Separation
To dream of a separation, suggests that you are experiencing some separation anxiety. You are afraid of feeling unneeded or abandoned. Alternatively, the dream means that you need to looking at an issue more objectively. You need to pull yourself away from a situation and look at it from afar.
Burp
To dream that you burp, indicates that your unconscious is informing you that you are going through some changes. You are seeing things differently as you grow older and gain more experience.
To hear a burp in your dream, signifies a breakthrough in your personal struggles. You have overcame barriers and resistance and are no longer being held back.
I'm talking to her (less pretty) friend and I couldn't help but notice her and nick. Nick seemed rather closed off but she was really chatting up a storm with him. Her friend noticed me watching and starts saying stuff like "oh yeah, she does that, she just always wants to test her boundaries and what she can't or can have. I don't get it. If she wasn't my friend I'd smack her on her pretty little head." I said something along the lines of, "yeah, I know girls like that too." Nick looks as if he's
Then, she grabs Nick by the face and presses her whole body onto him and starts kissing him passionately. Here's the kicker: Nick nor I really react like we should!!!! Nick just calmly pushes her away with mild force and tells her "no" as if he was telling storm to get off the couch. He looks at me then distances himself only a couple feet away from her but stays as she looks at him adoringly. I stand there a few seconds, shocked and furious, as her friend is outraged she just did that, "Are you just going to let her get away with that? If that was my husband I wouldn't just stand here like you are now! Aren't you going to do anything?" In a tone that is so calm it surprises me, i say, "No, what's the point? I trust my husband. He'd never cheat on me. She just made a fool of herself." Inside I start to have sneaking suspicions as I don't understand why he isn't walking away from her after the little stunt she pulled, then i get really mad and sad so I walk away half hoping he'll follow, but really, I just don't want to see the sight of them anymore but he stays with her instead of following me. He doesn't even ask or seem to care about how I am feeling. I am hurt of his lack of actions. I don't know, if I were him I'd yell at her, ask her what the hell is wrong with her, try to explain what happened was forced upon, and ditch the inappropriate bitch to be with my spouse. But he does NOTHING.
I do turn back one time to ask her friend one thing, "do they work together?" and she says "no." For some reason this calms me a tiny bit because that means that she won't be constantly interacting with him every day. Nevertheless, I am still furious of what happened and need to remove myself so I make way through elevators, escalators, and lobbies until I get to the restaurant the four of us were going to go together. Standing there for a few minutes, I compose myself and try to digest what the hell is and might be going on. Nick and the two girls arrive. I see them and can't stand the sight of them so without telling them, I just go into the restaurant next door where incidentally someone I know is there. It's a less fancy more quiet and down to earth family restaurant that offers asian food and I decide to join him (Jason). I'm still angry but I want to focus on my company and calming myself so we make small chitchat but then, for some reason I can't stop burping! Not normal burps but the gurgling kind I usually do. I cannot stop! I cover my mouth and even put my head down on the dining table and I even try to cover my head while it's down with my arms but everyone can hear me. I am embarrassed but I start laughing because...well, it was funny! A few others start laughing and chuckling then I feel a bit better.
The scene changes and Nick and I are in a courtroom in front a judge. We are separating or getting a divorce. The pretty asian girl's friend for some reason is there with me. I think we became friends maybe. She mentions what happened that on night out at the hotel and the judge raises an eyebrow at nick. She says, "is this true? why would you do nothing when something like that happened?" I say "it's true" and nick just shrugs. For some odd reason the judge says he could be suffering from a medical condition that may not have allowed him to react appropriately to the situation. She orders he get tested for further judgement.
That's the end of the dream. Below are some of the translations of elements involved by dreammoods.com
What do you think of it all? i can't quite figure it out.
Hotel
To see a hotel in your dream, signifies a new state of mind or a shift in personal identity. You are undergoing some sort of transition and need to move away from your old habits and old way of thinking. You need to temporarily escape from your daily life. Alternatively, the dream may imply a loss in your personal identity.
Asian
To see an Asian person in your dream, represents an aspect of your own self that is unknown to you. Additionally, to see an elderly Asian person, represents tradition, wisdom and knowledge.
Cheating
To dream that your mate, spouse, or significant other is cheating on you, indicates your fears of being abandoned. You may feel a lack of attention in the relationship. Alternatively, you may feel that you are not measuring up to the expectations of others. This notion may stem from issues of trust or self-esteem. The dream could also indicate that you are unconsciously picking up hints and cues that your significant other is not being completely truthful or is not fully committed in the relationship.
Elevator
To dream that you are ascending in an elevator, represents a rise to status and wealth. You may have risen to a higher level of consciousness and are looking at the world from an elevated viewpoint. If the elevator is moving upward in an out of control fashion or it crashes through the roof, then it indicates that you are being catapulted to a position of power in which you do not yet know how to deal with. You are afraid of the new responsibilities ahead for you. Descending in an elevator, suggests that you are being grounded or coming back down to reality. It also signifies setbacks and misfortunes.
In general, the up and down action of the elevator represents the ups and downs of your life. It also symbolizes emotions and thoughts that are emerging out of and submerging into your subconscious. Alternatively, the dream may have sexual connotations.
To dream that the elevator is out of order or that it is not letting you off, symbolizes that your emotions have gotten out of control. It may be a reflection of your life or your career. You are feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, whether it is your career, relationship, etc.
To dream that the elevator is moving sideways, means that your efforts are counterproductive. You are going nowhere in your work, relationship or other situation.
Escalator
To see an escalator in your dream, indicates movement between various levels of consciousness. If you are moving up in the escalator, then it suggests that you are addressing and confronting emotional issues. You are moving through your spiritual journey with great progress and ease. If you are going down the escalator, then it implies repression and descent back into your unconscious. You may be experiencing a setback.
Court
To dream that you are in court standing up for charges against you, signifies your struggle with issues of fear and guilt. A situation or circumstance in your life is giving you much distress and worry. You feel that you are being judged in some way and need to defend yourself.
Judgment
To dream that you are being judged, indicates that you are being put through some test. You are seeking acceptance in order to move forward.
Judge
To see a judge in your dream, denotes feelings of guilt. You are afraid of getting caught. Your dream may be helping and guiding you toward making better judgments. Alternatively, a judge indicates your insecurities and concerns of being judged or criticized for your actions. On a more direct note, your dream may indicate that waking disputes be resolved through some legal proceedings.
Divorce
To dream that you are getting a divorce, indicates that you need to differentiate between things in your life and prioritize them. Perhaps you need to separate yourself from some issue or some aspect of yourself. Alternatively, the dream suggests that you have a fear of separation or fear of being alone. You may be unsatisfied with your present relationship.
Divorce dreams may reflect real-life events and the stress that it brings. You may be wondering if you have made a mistake in some situation or decision Divorce dreams suggest a transitional phase. It is time to change your old habits.
Separation
To dream of a separation, suggests that you are experiencing some separation anxiety. You are afraid of feeling unneeded or abandoned. Alternatively, the dream means that you need to looking at an issue more objectively. You need to pull yourself away from a situation and look at it from afar.
Burp
To dream that you burp, indicates that your unconscious is informing you that you are going through some changes. You are seeing things differently as you grow older and gain more experience.
To hear a burp in your dream, signifies a breakthrough in your personal struggles. You have overcame barriers and resistance and are no longer being held back.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Dreams 10/15/2010
Dream 1: I saw a whole lot of pairs of fish and turtles in separate tanks. The fishes were small but long and red. They were destroying their mates(?). One fish would fight and tear their other apart. It startled me. The turtles were gentle, cute, and friendly. The couples were affectionate and all got along harmoniously. I got to hold one turtle. I loved him.
Dream 2: a wolf/dog got on top of a cow. Just like the sculpture in downtown Kirkland. It was comical. I was chuckling in my sleep.
Turtle
To see a turtle in your dream, symbolizes wisdom, faithfulness, longevity, and loyalty. It also suggests that you need to take it slow in some situation or relationship in your life. With time and patience, you will make steady progress. Alternatively, a turtle indicates that you are sheltering yourself from the realities of life. You are putting forth a hard exterior and not letting others in. As a result, you are feeling withdrawn.
Fish
To see fish swimming in your dream, signifies insights from your unconscious mind. Thus to catch a fish, represents insights which have been brought to the surface. Alternatively, a fish swimming in your dream may symbolize conception. Some women dream of swimming fish when they get pregnant. The fish is also an ancient symbol of Christianity and Christian beliefs. Consider the common phrases "like a cold fish", "fish out of water" or something that is "fishy" about a situation. It may also imply a slippery or elusive situation. Perhaps your dream could be telling you that "there are plenty of other fish in the sea", with regards to some relationship issue.
Fish Tank
To see or clean a fish tank in your dream, indicates how you have full control of your emotions. You keep your feelings in check. If you are watching the fish in the fish tank, then you may feel that your life is going nowhere or that you are going in circles with your life.
Cow
To see a cow in your dream, symbolizes your passive and docile nature. You obey others without question. Alternatively, a cow represents maternal instincts or the desire to be cared for. For some cultures, the cow represents divine qualities of fertility, nourishment and motherhood.
Wolf
To see a wolf in your dream, symbolizes survival, beauty, solitude, mystery, self-confidence and pride. You are able to keep your composure in a variety of social circumstances and blend into any situation with ease and grace. You are also a loner by choice. Negatively, the wolf represents hostility, aggression, or sneakiness. It may reflect an uncontrollable situation or an all-consuming force in your life. This could point to an obsession, an addiction or something that is beyond your control.
Dog
To see a dog in your dream, symbolizes intuition, loyalty, generosity, protection, and fidelity. The dream suggests that your strong values and good intentions will enable you to go forward in the world and bring you success. The dream dog may also represent someone in your life who exhibits these qualities. Alternatively, to see a dog in your dream, indicates a skill that you may have ignored or forgotten. If the dog is vicious and/or growling, then it indicates some inner conflict within yourself. It may also indicate betrayal and untrustworthiness. If the dog is dead or dying, then it means a loss of a good friend or a deterioration of your instincts. Also consider common notions associated with the word dog, such as loyalty ("man's best friend") and to be "treated like a dog".
Dream 2: a wolf/dog got on top of a cow. Just like the sculpture in downtown Kirkland. It was comical. I was chuckling in my sleep.
Turtle
To see a turtle in your dream, symbolizes wisdom, faithfulness, longevity, and loyalty. It also suggests that you need to take it slow in some situation or relationship in your life. With time and patience, you will make steady progress. Alternatively, a turtle indicates that you are sheltering yourself from the realities of life. You are putting forth a hard exterior and not letting others in. As a result, you are feeling withdrawn.
Fish
To see fish swimming in your dream, signifies insights from your unconscious mind. Thus to catch a fish, represents insights which have been brought to the surface. Alternatively, a fish swimming in your dream may symbolize conception. Some women dream of swimming fish when they get pregnant. The fish is also an ancient symbol of Christianity and Christian beliefs. Consider the common phrases "like a cold fish", "fish out of water" or something that is "fishy" about a situation. It may also imply a slippery or elusive situation. Perhaps your dream could be telling you that "there are plenty of other fish in the sea", with regards to some relationship issue.
Fish Tank
To see or clean a fish tank in your dream, indicates how you have full control of your emotions. You keep your feelings in check. If you are watching the fish in the fish tank, then you may feel that your life is going nowhere or that you are going in circles with your life.
Cow
To see a cow in your dream, symbolizes your passive and docile nature. You obey others without question. Alternatively, a cow represents maternal instincts or the desire to be cared for. For some cultures, the cow represents divine qualities of fertility, nourishment and motherhood.
Wolf
To see a wolf in your dream, symbolizes survival, beauty, solitude, mystery, self-confidence and pride. You are able to keep your composure in a variety of social circumstances and blend into any situation with ease and grace. You are also a loner by choice. Negatively, the wolf represents hostility, aggression, or sneakiness. It may reflect an uncontrollable situation or an all-consuming force in your life. This could point to an obsession, an addiction or something that is beyond your control.
Dog
To see a dog in your dream, symbolizes intuition, loyalty, generosity, protection, and fidelity. The dream suggests that your strong values and good intentions will enable you to go forward in the world and bring you success. The dream dog may also represent someone in your life who exhibits these qualities. Alternatively, to see a dog in your dream, indicates a skill that you may have ignored or forgotten. If the dog is vicious and/or growling, then it indicates some inner conflict within yourself. It may also indicate betrayal and untrustworthiness. If the dog is dead or dying, then it means a loss of a good friend or a deterioration of your instincts. Also consider common notions associated with the word dog, such as loyalty ("man's best friend") and to be "treated like a dog".
Thursday, October 14, 2010
How do you estimate design costs?
http://www.artefactgroup.com/#/content/how-do-you-estimate-design-costs/
How do you estimate design costs?
subscribe to rssWhen we meet with new potential clients I almost always ask… “So how would you rate the importance of a great customer experience to the success of the venture…? Is it; nice to have?, great to have? or ‘critical to the successful execution of the product?”. The response is almost always; ‘it’s critical’. Quickly however as we discuss costs and time it becomes clear they haven’t planned or invested accordingly. I’ve had startups reveal proudly how much startup investment they’ve received then balk at the expense when we’ve proposed spending 0.5% of that on a design engagement. It’s clear to me especially with startups that there is little knowledge of what size of investment is appropriate.
No two projects are identical and there is an enormous difference between bringing something ‘completely new’ to market and something ‘slightly different’ to the world but in my experience there is so little discussion about what a ‘reasonable’ investment in design should be – that there is value in providing some simple baseline for estimation and planning purposes.
My proposal is…
Design spending should account for 10-18% of the cost of bringing a new product to Market.
‘Design’ here is a Verb not a noun, we are not talking simply about a set of aesthetically pleasing ‘stylistic’ decisions that help differentiate some commodities. We are mostly talking about innovation and problem solving that when done well creates things of enormous and lasting value for your customers and the world. The activities and deliverables run the gamut from qualitative user research, concept generation, persona development, scenario development, information architecture, prototypes, usability evaluation, visual design, branding, layout, model building, behavioral specification documents, UI writing, assets for development, CAD files etc.
For comparison, architect’s designing a residential house use the metric of 8-12% of total construction costs for their fees. For commercial buildings from 5-15% to go from concept to blueprints. You can go well north of that (>20%) if you are building something of great significance, or working with the world’s most highly recognized architectural companies. If Architecture, has reached a level of maturity that fees are pretty well defined as a proportion of total construction, irrespective of the function of the building, why can’t the same argument be made for product design?
Not to diminish the architect’s role but digital product design I believe to be an equal to and sometimes allot more complex than traditional architecture, (hence my bias that it warrants a higher percentage.) I’m not really interested in comparison between disciplines here, just to point out that the timeframes, impact, process and resulting value are similar enough that they can be usefully compared.
If I was an academic I’d probably reject this argument, a simple comparison is probably insufficient evidence to support the numbers I’m proposing. To convince you the skeptic I’d have to provide allot of great case studies about how the masters spent exactly 18% of their total development costs to produce ‘X’ (the widely heralded examples of great design’). Well sadly that ‘total cost’ data is just not available to most of us. (Someone at Harvard Business review should commission this study)
Instead, I have two things to say; the first is just based on experience with dozens and dozens of product cycles, and from what I’ve seen in corporations, this number feels about right. When I asked some of my senior colleagues at Artefact what they felt was the right number some went higher, some a little lower, which brings me to my second point.
What do you think? Please tell me, if you are privy to the data can you add up all the money spent in your recent product cycle on ‘people’ and expenses doing design activities and then give me what it represented as a proportion of the whole expense? Including, launch marketing, development etc. Lets discuss.
I say “people doing design” above because often people who are not designers are doing design work, sometimes its marketing people, sometimes business owners, sometimes engineers, sometime program or product managers and this is ok as long as a designer is working with them collaboratively on those things. Its worth pointing out that not doing ‘design’ is impossible, even if you don’t hire professionals, you may forgo some of the process that results in better design but whatever you ship is ‘designed’ like it or not. Thus its obviously my position that this investment should be spent on people who have been trained in and have demonstrated they are good at ‘design’, people with great empathy, insight, imagination, and curiosity driven to understand and improve everything around them, in short hire professionals not amateurs. The more experience the designer can demonstrate in your specific vertical specialization may also be a good reason to pay a higher percentage of your budget as the results will often result in overall cost savings.
I also believe Design’s value to a new product development to be highest at the beginning of the product cycle. It’s no use spending a large proportion of your budget trying to scale your design activities at the last minute, much better to have that investment be long term and constant from as early on to the finish. Upfront design investment especially for manufacturing is ‘tiny’ prepared to the costs of fixes late in the process; there are also some great stories of design discoveries made early that saved literally millions of dollars for a business.
How much is too much?
Most design activities can scale, there is a minimum amount of time it takes to competently deliver something without compromising quality, and this will largely depend on the talent and experience of the individual designer. The critical question becomes what is the maximum amount of time you can spend on something, and how does this improve the outcome? There’s a great quote from aWired feature on Pixar which is the Toy Story 3 director Lee Unkrich, says something like he could continue to improve the movie forever, and its only commercial pressure that forces him to let go and release. It’s true that design activities can expand to fill any volume of time, but quality does take time.
Great designers work iteratively, constantly revising and revisiting all the details as new information becomes available throughout the process. So the answer to what is the maximum amount of time essentially boils down to the business owner’s patience, interest and passion in doing something truly remarkable for their customers, rather than something that ‘gets the job done’. It’s no coincidence that Steve Jobs is involved in Apple and Pixar his drive for excellence has resulted in a company (apple) renowned for great design and now has the largest technology company market capitalization in the world.
“We’re here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise why else even be here?” – Steve Jobs.
So why do companies under estimate design spending?, well part of the story it seems is that there’s an culture in the tech community that prizes action over planning, born out in myths like ‘first to market advantage’. Despite the historic dot com bust, and countless ill-considered, ill-planned product releases every year, there is a tendency to believe that the customers are just waiting to pounce on your hastily or poorly designed product. Consider the 250,000+ applications currently available for the I-phone and how many you can remember being any good, or a well designed experience?
We often hear expressions and excuses muttered like, “we can ship it and fix it later”, and “it doesn’t have to be perfect it just needs to work”. These statements are not to be believed, they ignore market realities (e.g.: Apple has a best to market, not first to market) but worse they diminish the importance of focusing your efforts on the consumer of your experience. Compromising the quality of your customer’s product experience is simply the worst place to be frugal, if you can’t execute it perfectly my recommendation is ‘do less’ perfectly, than lots poorly.
The value of the investment in design activities or the return on this investment is a big topic, too big for the scope of this post. There are ways to measure and isolate the impact design has on a product’s commercial success but we’ve actually yet to have a client who asked Artefact for that. At some level design is something you invest in, because the evidence of its commercial efficacy is all around you in commercial success stories across many industries.
Please let me know what you think the design percentages are in your project, or should be, and if you agree or disagree with my assertion above.
Image borrowed from the most excellent..http://www.design-police.org/
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