Have you ever wondered why different colours affect your every day life? How it can affect emotions and business? This is just the beginning.
Monday, 17 December 2018
Friday, 14 December 2018
Monday, 10 December 2018
Who Killed Vincent van Gogh? by I. Kaufman Arenberg MD
Denver, CO, November 21, 2018—Vincent van Gogh's death in July 1890 has always been believed to have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound into his belly. This 19th-century suicide theory has come under recent scrutiny when TIME magazine, on their October 31, 2011, cover, asked the question, "Who Killed van Gogh?" and then followed up with their culture cover, "Was van Gogh's Death Really a Suicide?"
I. Kaufman Arenberg, MD, a prominent (retired) ear surgeon, has been publishing on van Gogh ever since he wrote a cover-featured "Special Communication" article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). This report, whose publication coincided with the 100th anniversary of Vincent's death in July 1990, corrected the old misdiagnosis for Vincent's noteworthy "attacks"—attributing them to an inner-ear disease (Meniere's disease) and not to epilepsy. He never believed at that time that van Gogh committed suicide.
Now, from that same doctor, comes another stunner: His analysis and new, 21st-century forensic evidence strongly suggests the artist was a victim of murder.
In his new book, Killing Vincent: The Man, the Myth and the Murder, Arenberg invites readers to examine the evidence he's unearthed since the JAMA article was published, while calling for a more thorough look into this cold case using 21st-century forensic simulations and reenactments with the same antique revolver that might have been used in the murder, vintage black powder bullets and FBI ballistic gel.
Arenberg has continued his groundbreaking research to this day and, in his book, he shares the evidence he's unearthed since his revelations in 1990. Arenberg says his research strongly suggests that the artist may have been murdered and that an elaborate scheme was concocted to make it appear that he committed suicide.
Did van Gogh take his own life in a fit of madness? Or did something much more sinister happen to one of the world's greatest visionaries?
"Everyone is fascinated and intrigued by the iconic Vincent,” said Arenberg. "But when you substitute premeditated murder and an elaborate cover-up, then add to that an intriguing romantic twist that could provide a motive for his murder—you will really have everyone's attention!”
Killing Vincent also features interactive elements, including social media platforms as well as a website, allowing readers to interact on a dedicated forum and discuss various theories about van Gogh's life and death.
Arenberg, a noted author of medical works, now takes his first stab at nonfiction. He has served on the boards of several peer-reviewed journals and was made the youthful Associate Editor of the AMA Archives of Otolaryngology in 1968. He has edited six books, published 100 articles in peer-reviewed journals, and published or presented more than 500 abstracts, papers or book chapters on ear diseases, hearing, balance and tinnitus, and specifically Meniere's disease. He has lectured extensively in many countries and was a visiting professor at many distinguished medical schools and teaching hospitals. He founded and ran three nonprofit organizations and has been awarded three international gold medal honor awards.
To learn more, check out the intriguing and in-depth website, www.killingvincent.com. This website also features an ongoing, interactive forum and other interactive elements, including social media platforms that allow readers to interact and discuss various theories about van Gogh's life and death with the author.
Killing Vincent: The Man, the Myth and the Murder
Available Immediately at:
Amazon.com – Kindle E-Book, Paperback Color or B&W
Ingram Spark Distribution – Color Hardcover, Libraries, Mortar/Online Book Retailers
My Review
The facts, including photos, paintings and diagrams to support Vincent was murdered, of which there are many, show there is a tremendous amount of evidence to debunk the suicide theory of Vincent. I do hope so. Don McLean's song Starry Starry Night won't be the same if the facts prove to be correct. The truth is out there and the only way to get to the bottom of it is to exhume Vincent's body.
I'm not going to say any more at the moment because the book contains a lot of grammatical errors, and typesetting problems as well as being repetitive. I did mention this to the author and he is looking into it.
Friday, 30 November 2018
10 Feng Shui Tips For Attracting Money and Prosperity
Feng Shui lucky objects and where to place them in your home to attract Money and Prosperity into your life.
Monday, 29 October 2018
Dark Associations by Marie Sutro - Book Review
2018 IBPA Benjamin Franklin
Gold Award Winner
Best New Voice in Fiction
Get Ready For A Sleepless Night Or Two: The Deadly Game Within Dark Associations
San Francisco, CA, October 2, 2018 ― Dark Associations by Marie Sutro (Viper Press) is a compelling work of crime fiction pulling readers into a chilling battle of wits between a sinister, twisted mind and a determined young detective.
Synopsis
Following the discovery of her protégé's mutilated corpse, SFPD Detective Kate Barnes vows to capture an infamous serial killer known as the Tower Torturer. After years of silence, the psychopath has emerged from the shadows.
Young women close to Kate begin to disappear, as the killer taunts the detective, torturing his victims in various and unspeakable ways before displaying their corpses in macabre public tableaus. The predator always seems to be two moves ahead of the rookie investigator, despite her best efforts. As the body count rises, Kate struggles to apprehend the brutal mastermind before he resurrects history's most insidious form of torture upon her.
Marie Sutro
About the Author
Marie Sutro is a native of the San Francisco Bay Area and a member of Sisters in Crime. A proponent of adult literacy, she volunteers with California Library Literacy Services, helping adults improve their reading and writing skills. Her great-grandfather, grandfather and father all served in the San Francisco Police Department, the collective inspiration for her debut novel. She resides in Northern California and is currently at work on the next Kate Barnes story.
My Review
Oh my word! No wonder Marie Sutro won 'Best New Voice in Fiction' she is one brilliant storyteller.
Ok, in some parts the grisly bits were really grisly but, overall, what a cracking story. The characters are so easy to get to know, and like. The twists and turns are amazing. Of course, I knew who the serial killer was early on in the book; or did I? Red herring comes to mind lol! Full moons and scary stories go hand-in-hand. I read a particularly scary chapter under the light of the full moon. I recommend you try it with this book. A gripping read throughout.
Ellen Dean most definitely recommends
Friday, 12 October 2018
'In The Spotlight' at Darlington Hippodrome
On Saturday 6th October I went along with friends and family to Darlington Hippodrome to watch my three year old great-niece Isabelle perform with The Sandra Welsh School Of Dance in their show 'In The Spotlight'. This show was a real treat, and Isabelle's stage debut. I was so excited.
Every member of the cast from the youngest to the oldest (three to eighteen years respectively) gave outstanding performances. There was a full range of singing and dancing. The little ones came on, with chaperones, to a lots of oohs and aahs from the audience - including mine - then the chaperones disappeared into the wings. Did they get stage fright? Not a bit. They performed their routine like little troopers.
The whole show was very uplifting to say the least. One could be forgiven for thinking they were watching a professional West End Show. It was full of life, love and laughter, absolutely bursting with talent. A real tribute to The Sandra Welsh School Of Dance based in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.
Photos taken by Paul Anderson ©
(used with permission)
Monday, 8 October 2018
Swinton Park Hotel - Baby Shark - Ballet and Tap Dancing
Baby Shark, Ballet and Tap Dancing
at
Out for lunch (which was absolutely delicious) with the family at The Swinton Park Hotel, Masham.
Then there was the entertainment. My great-niece Isabelle decided to sing the Baby Shark song, and then when the music played (in the Drawing Room) she went into dance mode. First we were treated to Ballet followed by Tap Dancing. She wasn't at all bothered that other guests were watching, and I have to say they were loving it, and all applauded when she finished.
Sunday, 16 September 2018
Home Vestibular Exercises - Balancing Act
Home Vestibular Exercises
Why not make the exercises fun?
I have written a couple of previous blogs about my having a vestibular disorder and I thought why not make the exercises you have to do to help your brain compensate, fun. I went outdoors and I could see the sun had made a shadow, on the grass, of the electric cable. And, it was a thick enough shadow to use as a high wire rope. Of course my trusty Labrador was by my side. He loves to tag along. Actually sometimes he must wonder what on earth I’m doing. But, he joins in the fun. Anything for a biscuit, and that’s just me lol!
On a serious note…vestibular disorders are the pits! If I can make exercises fun, then so be it. I learned to appreciate what I can do and accept what I can’t. Some people say fight it, but if you try and fight it, it causes anxiety and when you think about it…fighting something sounds like a battle and then your body becomes tense. You can’t win a battle that way.
Forget the battle and go with the flow. Do what you can to help yourself…research the vestibular disorder you have been diagnosed with and follow the regime. VEDA is a brilliant website for all vestibular disorders, and all are professionals. What they don’t know isn’t worth knowing, believe me. Finding that particular website changed my life, for the better.
Onward and upward 😀
Thursday, 13 September 2018
Sunday, 9 September 2018
Saturday, 11 August 2018
Baby Shark Challenge - Cheeky Monkeys
The video speaks for itself...
Baby Shark - The Craze
Seems everyone in the world knows about the fun and fabulous craze that is the Baby Shark. Don’t they? Yes, no, perhaps?
Well, everybody might have, but certainly not me.
The first I heard about it was when my little great-niece visited. I was making tea in the kitchen and all I could hear was her laughing along with my friend. So, I popped my head round the door to see what was going on.
And there she was, at three years old doing her level best to teach my friend something. I had no idea what she was trying to teach my him but they were both laughing and giggling a lot so I knew it had to be something fun. Luckily my friend was familiar with the Baby Shark craze and was able to go along with it and in what seemed like no time at all they were both singing the Baby Shark song and both doing the actions.
Well, that was it. Everyone in the house just had to join in and from there came the idea that could we, or even should we, maybe have a bit of fun ourselves and have a bash at making a silly short film?
So with very little practice we did just that as the film above shows and, quite rightly, I’m sure you’ll agree that the dog is the star of the show.
Since the film has been aired it’s not unusual for me to be greeted with the first few bars of the song when I visit local shops and it’s great to get such a terrific response and have a fun thing going. It brightens the day. It’s become quite a thing in my local Co-op Store where everyone wants to be part of the ‘in’ joke and then my great-niece almost started a chain reaction while we were out celebrating a birthday, such happy reactions.
So, I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to the originators of the Baby Shark for helping to bring smiles and sunshine into our daily lives and for helping some little people pronounce their words better.
Sunday, 17 June 2018
How To Do The Floss Dance (The Royal Floss)
You invite friends to pop round and this is what happens. The Floss Dance as you've never seen it before and will probably never see again lol!
Sunday, 10 June 2018
Vestibular Disorder - Earthquake Hull 10th June 2018
I blogged in February 2018 about earthquakes causing people (including me) who have vestibular disorders finding their 'off balance' and 'dizzy' symptoms hike.
Well, last night I let my dog out about 11pm (Masham, North Yorkshire) and thought I heard thunder in the distance. My dog barked when he heard it and I felt off balance. This morning I read the BBC news to discover there had been a 3.9 earthquake at 11.15pm in Hull, not too far from me as the crow flies.
For the last couple of days I've been really off balance and assumed it was because I had been to the Jane McDonald concert two days ago as it takes me a few days to get over the travel and the flashing lights, not to mention the loud audio. Then yesterday morning I had to wear my peaked hat and shades when I went outdoors because I felt off balance and nauseous. I think it's been the approaching earthquake. I'd love to know if you have had the same symptoms before, or when, there's been an earthquake?
Well, last night I let my dog out about 11pm (Masham, North Yorkshire) and thought I heard thunder in the distance. My dog barked when he heard it and I felt off balance. This morning I read the BBC news to discover there had been a 3.9 earthquake at 11.15pm in Hull, not too far from me as the crow flies.
For the last couple of days I've been really off balance and assumed it was because I had been to the Jane McDonald concert two days ago as it takes me a few days to get over the travel and the flashing lights, not to mention the loud audio. Then yesterday morning I had to wear my peaked hat and shades when I went outdoors because I felt off balance and nauseous. I think it's been the approaching earthquake. I'd love to know if you have had the same symptoms before, or when, there's been an earthquake?
Friday, 8 June 2018
Jane McDonald - 20 Year Anniversary Tour 2018
I've followed Jane McDonald since I saw her on the BBC documentary 'The Cruise' in 1998. Well, after all these years I finally got to see her live at Darlington Hippodrome last night which was her opener for The Anniversary Tour.
I hadn't been to the theatre for over four years due to having a vestibular disorder. Lights, loud audio and crowds set off my symptoms and my balance goes awry. Not to mention the drive up the motorway which is hugely problematic for me, so I wasn't at all sure I'd actually make it. But I did and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I'm suffering today, but it was well worth it.
Jane is a truly gifted performer. You'll note I say 'performer' because that's exactly what this wonderful lady is. Not only is she an amazing singer (and songwriter) she exudes love into the audience and in turn they love her back. It's like sitting in your living room chatting to her, her audience interaction is amazing. This down to earth performer with her huge singing voice had the crowd on their feet all beautifully wrapped in a wonderful Jane McDonald bubble complete with her fab band and backing singers.
The last song was very appropriate for me - 'Dance Yourself Dizzy' - oh I had to laugh! I have to say going to the theatre was a big deal for me as it is for many people suffering with a vestibular disorder. I did need to close my eyes when the lights flashed and wore my hat for extra protection. The audio was so loud the seats vibrated so next time I will make sure to sit in the stalls instead of the Dress Circle. I think it will make a difference. But this does not detract from the fantastic show and the fantastic renovations at Darlington Hippodrome.
If you are able to get tickets - grab them!
Ellen Dean Absolutely Recommends
I hadn't been to the theatre for over four years due to having a vestibular disorder. Lights, loud audio and crowds set off my symptoms and my balance goes awry. Not to mention the drive up the motorway which is hugely problematic for me, so I wasn't at all sure I'd actually make it. But I did and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I'm suffering today, but it was well worth it.
Jane is a truly gifted performer. You'll note I say 'performer' because that's exactly what this wonderful lady is. Not only is she an amazing singer (and songwriter) she exudes love into the audience and in turn they love her back. It's like sitting in your living room chatting to her, her audience interaction is amazing. This down to earth performer with her huge singing voice had the crowd on their feet all beautifully wrapped in a wonderful Jane McDonald bubble complete with her fab band and backing singers.
The last song was very appropriate for me - 'Dance Yourself Dizzy' - oh I had to laugh! I have to say going to the theatre was a big deal for me as it is for many people suffering with a vestibular disorder. I did need to close my eyes when the lights flashed and wore my hat for extra protection. The audio was so loud the seats vibrated so next time I will make sure to sit in the stalls instead of the Dress Circle. I think it will make a difference. But this does not detract from the fantastic show and the fantastic renovations at Darlington Hippodrome.
If you are able to get tickets - grab them!
Ellen Dean Absolutely Recommends
Monday, 21 May 2018
Zoe Ball - Broadcasting Live from Pikes Ibiza - Press Release
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Wednesday, 9 May 2018
The Secret - Rhonda Byrne
The best selling book - The Secret - was first published in 2006 and made Rhonda Byrne a very rich woman. And, yes, I actually bought it. I know exactly why I bought it...it was because when you think of the word 'secret' you need to know what the secret is. Doesn't everybody? So, well done to Rhonda, a great title for a book.
It quickly became obvious in the first few pages that the 'secret' wasn't actually a secret, but had been talked about for years. Napoleon Hill - Think and Grow Rich. The Law of Attraction - Esther and Jerry Hicks. You Can Heal Your Life - Louise L. Hay are just a few authors who wrote in some way about The Secret.
Some people say 'The Secret' insults their intelligence because it's so what we do everyday, but do we? Sometimes we need a gentle nudge. I studied NLP years ago and have helped many people and that is actually using the same workings as the secret. I help people to move on in life whether they are going into business, training for a sport, or buying a new home. It's all about changing the way you think.
I have to say it is a great book and many people have changed their lives after reading it. Me, if I'm unsure about something I'm working on I'll pick up the book and open it at a random page and there is usually something there to help me think things through. I suppose it could be like having a counselling session.
I'd like to know your thoughts, if you've read The Secret. What has it done for you?
Ellen Dean Recommends
It quickly became obvious in the first few pages that the 'secret' wasn't actually a secret, but had been talked about for years. Napoleon Hill - Think and Grow Rich. The Law of Attraction - Esther and Jerry Hicks. You Can Heal Your Life - Louise L. Hay are just a few authors who wrote in some way about The Secret.
Some people say 'The Secret' insults their intelligence because it's so what we do everyday, but do we? Sometimes we need a gentle nudge. I studied NLP years ago and have helped many people and that is actually using the same workings as the secret. I help people to move on in life whether they are going into business, training for a sport, or buying a new home. It's all about changing the way you think.
I have to say it is a great book and many people have changed their lives after reading it. Me, if I'm unsure about something I'm working on I'll pick up the book and open it at a random page and there is usually something there to help me think things through. I suppose it could be like having a counselling session.
I'd like to know your thoughts, if you've read The Secret. What has it done for you?
Ellen Dean Recommends
Monday, 30 April 2018
Stained Fortune by Joe Calderwood - Book Review
For Four Million Bucks, This Ex-Con Is Willing To Take The Biggest Risk Of His Life
Asheville, NC, March 22, 2018 ― Career criminal Clint Kennedy, a bisexual man with a background in finance and shady deals, moved to Mexico for a fresh start. While it's not in his plan to land in a Mexican jail, this adrenaline junkie would do just about anything for the right price – and since the right price for this job is four million, he's willing to risk it!
From his nighttime prowls through Mexico's seedy backstreets, to the thunderous roar of the bull ring, to the gleaming towers of Miami's most prestigious banks — Clint lived for each new adrenaline rush, even if jail was almost inevitable.
In Stained Fortune, the new suspense thriller from Joe Calderwood, we meet Clint Kennedy, a career criminal who grew up poor alongside friends with money. And now it was his turn to enjoy the good life. He will do anything to make money, and sometimes he'll pay. But that's a risk he's more than willing to take.
Following his first prison sentence for running an escort business in Miami, Clint moves to Mexico for a fresh start. A chance meeting with a Mexican bullfighter who also happens to be a drug kingpin sends Clint down a path toward his biggest payday ever.
And all he has to do is move millions of dollars, undetected, from Mexico to a United States bank account. All without raising suspicion. All free and clear. And he would keep four million of it. But the tiniest mistake could cost him everything.
Asheville, NC, March 22, 2018 ― Career criminal Clint Kennedy, a bisexual man with a background in finance and shady deals, moved to Mexico for a fresh start. While it's not in his plan to land in a Mexican jail, this adrenaline junkie would do just about anything for the right price – and since the right price for this job is four million, he's willing to risk it!
From his nighttime prowls through Mexico's seedy backstreets, to the thunderous roar of the bull ring, to the gleaming towers of Miami's most prestigious banks — Clint lived for each new adrenaline rush, even if jail was almost inevitable.
In Stained Fortune, the new suspense thriller from Joe Calderwood, we meet Clint Kennedy, a career criminal who grew up poor alongside friends with money. And now it was his turn to enjoy the good life. He will do anything to make money, and sometimes he'll pay. But that's a risk he's more than willing to take.
Following his first prison sentence for running an escort business in Miami, Clint moves to Mexico for a fresh start. A chance meeting with a Mexican bullfighter who also happens to be a drug kingpin sends Clint down a path toward his biggest payday ever.
And all he has to do is move millions of dollars, undetected, from Mexico to a United States bank account. All without raising suspicion. All free and clear. And he would keep four million of it. But the tiniest mistake could cost him everything.
About the Author:
Author Joe Calderwood was born and raised in Homestead, Florida, and graduated from college in 1971 with a BBA. For many years, he was a practicing CPA in Florida before beginning his career as a serial entrepreneur. He's owned, so far, seven different businesses, and currently owns a 55-lot development in Western North Carolina. Stained Fortune is his debut book and the first in a planned three-part Clint Kennedy series. He lives in Western North Carolina with his partner of 36 years and spouse of three years, Gil.
My Review
Well, I've always wondered how people laundered money, and after reading Stained Fortune, I know. A little something to tickle your fancy...I once laundered money (by mistake) when I put my trousers in the washing machine and there was a £10 note still in the pocket.
About the book: I felt I really got to know the characters very well and so wanted Clint Kennedy, the main character, to succeed in his pursuits even though it was wrong of him to do what he was doing. Clint is a kind of Marmite character, you either love him or hate him, I loved him. For a first book it was engaging, not too much description (but at the same time such attention to detail) and it flowed easily. My kind of book. It's what I call a page turner. All of the characters were easy to follow and I could picture them as though I was watching them on a film. This book has more twists than a Pasta Twirl.
Ellen Dean Recommends
Wednesday, 11 April 2018
IzzieBuzyBits - Handmade Clothing for Children
Amy Addison the owner of IzzieBuzyBits is so passionate about providing children's clothes and accessories that stand out from the crowd she has created her own line. Amy says, 'Every item is handmade with love and care with comfort and functionality to the fore. I have a great standard range but if customers want custom made items then I do my very best to meet their needs. Every piece is unique.'
Custom Made Items
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| Custom made leggings |
Amy started her business after up-cycling some of her own clothes for her little girl who loves being the model for new items. Friends started to ask Amy where she'd bought the lovely things her daughter was wearing and Amy explained how she made them herself. That started the ball rolling,
Sweatshirt, Hoodie and Dungarees
Amy can often be found at charity events displaying her distinctive handmade creations on her stall. Dates and venues can be found of the Facebook page.
Amy told me people are asking if she makes clothes for adults. 'That will be the next step,' she said.
Available to Pre-Order
If you have any special requests be sure to contact Amy who will be happy to help.
You can email Amy at amyea88@me.com
Available to UK customers only, at the moment.
Ellen Dean Recommends
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