@
Meeting Invitation
Meeting Invitation
Kingdom Create Profile Home Blogs Campaigns Photos Videos Music Movies TV Fashion Celebs Travels Books Gaming Shows Places Sports Finance News Art Apps Acting Awesome Bands Beaches Beauty Bicycles Billiards Boats Body Building Books Bowling Business Camping Cars Celebrities Challenges Codes Collectors Colleges Competitions Communities Computers Concerts Construction Cooking Cool Coupons Courses Covid-19 Crafting Crazy Crews Crowdfunding Cultures Dance Discussion Datacenters Dating Decoration Diet Directions Drawing Drinks Earth Eating Education Electronics Encouraging Entertainment Events Exercise Family Famous Fashion Men Fashion Women Finance Fishing Fitness Food Funny Furnitures Futurology Gadgets Gaming Gardening Gardens Gifts Giveaways God Golf Health Hiking History Holidays Hotels Housework How To Humor Images Internet Inventions Jewellery Jokes Kids Life Listen To This Love Marketing Marriage Millionaires Motorcycles Motivation Movies Music Altern Music Blues Music Caribbean Music Classical Music Country Music Dance Music Electronic Music Folk Music Gospel Music Grunge Music Heavy Metal Music Hip Hop Music House Music Indie Music Industrial Music Jazz Music Latin Music New age Music Pop Music Punk Music Raggea Music R&B Music Relaxing Music Rock Music Soul Music Underground Nature Novelties Opportunities Painting Parents People Pet Birds Pet Cats Pet Dogs Pet Fish Pet Horses Pet Insects Pet Monkeys Pet Rabbits Pet Snakes Pet Wild animals Pics Philosophy Philanthropy Photography Photoshop Places Play Bass Play Cards Play Drums Play Flute Play Guitar play Keyboard play Piano play Saxophone Politics Portfolios Press Releases Products Professionals Promotions Questions Reading Real Estate Relationship Religion Research Restaurants Robotics Science Sculpting See And Critic Seo Sewing Sexuality Singing Smartphones Socializing Space Sport Athletism Sport Badminton Sport Baseball Sport Basketball Sport Boxing Sport Cricket Sport Cycling Sport Football Sport Golf Sport Handball Sport Hockey Sport Horse Riding Sport Jogging Sport Judo Sport Karate Sport Kung-fu Sport MMA Sport Racing Boats Sport Racing Cars Sport Racing Motorcycles Sport Rugby Sport Skiing Sport Sky Diving Sport Snooker Sport Snowboarding Sport Soccer Sport Swimming Sport Table Tennis Sport Tennis Sport Volleyball Sport Wrestling Sport Other Technology Television Tell Your Fans Travels Trending Universities Vacation Videos Want That Watch This Wellness Weddings What Do You Think Wikis Working On This Writing Yoga


    Millie Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Well, actually, it's both … the charm of hummingbirds is most certainly apropos and "a charm" of hummingbirds is actually factual! Yep, that's right, the collective noun for these unique creatures - just like a gaggle of geese or a flock of birds, is a charm of hummingbirds. Since the definition of the noun 'charm' is "the power of giving delight or arousing admiration," one doesn't need to be a wordsmith to see how right that is.

    Hummingbirds are charming.

    And there are over 330 varieties of the species, Trochilidae, which is their biological family name and they're found in the Western Hemisphere. When one sees a hummingbird, it's a stunning, stop-in-your-tracks sight. Their brilliant throat color is actually a result of the iridescence in the arrangement of their feathers, not color pigment. Light level, moisture, angle of viewing and other factors all influence just how bright and colorful their throats may appear. Perhaps you've heard them, too - the name hummingbird comes from the buzzing sound of their fast-flapping wings.

    Hummers are migrant birds, so although many stay close to the Equator, lots of varieties travel this time of year, so there may be a 'charm' coming to your backyard soon. If you have the desire to see one up close or are curious about how to attract them to your yard, the folks at Cole's Wild Bird Feed Co have got you covered. First, they figured out the engineering of an elegant, deceptively simple, easy-to-use (and easy-to-clean!) feeder. The patented Hummer High Rise has a clever design that offers a stress-free position for your charming guests to get their fill, a fantastic 360-degree vista, all the while keeping other unwanted creatures at bay.

    For example there's an ant moat that stops the armies of industrious workers who'd love to get some sweet nectar, from beating a path to the liquid food. The genius is, it's an actual moat, with nothing but H2O keeping the ants at bay, so while it does its job, it doesn't do harm. Nice!

    A charm magnet.

    The second definition for the noun 'charm' is a small ornament worn on a necklace or bracelet. Hummingbirds weigh on average the same as a nickel, so while you'll want to wear a replica from the jewelers, Hummers can be your own garden's jewelry all season long.

    And in return for their arousing your admiration, they'll feed on those annoying garden insects and pests. For their small size, hummers eat a lot. They are voracious eaters, feeding on mosquitos, gnats, spiders, aphids and other six-legged creepy crawlers. But, besides pests for protein, their primary 'food group' is nectar, which they get in by flitting from flower to flower and using their long beaks and equally long tongues to get their fill. All that flitting is exhausting!

    Since hummingbirds drink up to half their body weight a day of nectar you can help them out by keeping your High Rise fully stocked, for a one-stop fill of their favorite nectar treat.

    Let's not leave out the definition of the verb, "charm," which is to "delight greatly." If you want these Disney-esque caricatures to delight you on a regular basis with their wonder - and bring their distinctive song to your yard - there is something you can buy: the creme-de la creme of what these charmers crave: Nature's Garden from Cole's.

    By identifying and harnessing the nutrients of the hummer's favorite wildflowers, and tapping their vast store of wild bird knowhow, Cole's has created the next-best-thing to actual flower nectar - a proprietary formula that's far and away a cut above your 'garden-variety' sugar water. Nature's Garden is a healthy, all-natural alternative to homemade syrup, no mixing and no boiling required. It comes in an eco-friendly soft pouch; just shake and pour. You'll be delighted with how easy it is to keep your hummer feeder filled and overjoyed at seeing hummers frequent your yard. Your neighborhood hummingbirds will love it, so they'll keep coming back.

    A brief postscript: a natural predator to the hummingbird is the praying mantis. Despite their equally small size and saintly appearance, they feed on our fascinating feathered friends and are a real threat (and a protected species), so if you find a mantis hanging around your High Rise, take care to evict it gently, to a lower piece of real estate and keep hummers safe.

    Ref: Camping - in Blogs
    60 0

    Tiya tiya1969
    ODE TO SATURDAY MORNINGS

    Saturday mornings are meant for rest and relaxation….except in an African American household. Saturdays are meant for a deep scrubbing from the inside to the outside, usually to be completed by noon so we could go outside and ride our bikes and play until the streetlights came on, or in my case, piano lessons until early afternoon and THEN ride the day away all over the city of Columbus on my white 10-speed.

    Early mornings, we would wake to my mom’s homemade apple or cherry turnovers or Bob Evan’s recipe biscuits. My younger sister and I woud have the inside of the house and our brothers would have the outside. Once we all came together in the middle, we would eat, get dressed and head to piano lessons on 18th Street with the incomparable Vincent Walters.

    Music comprehension for one hour, hanging with some like-minded creatives (we really weren’t), and then home to Soul Train at noon and friends, kickball, garden hoses and Dixie cups and the creek for the rest of the day and night. Being a kid was so easy in the 80’s. My only stress was if the neighbor boy liked me more than he did Kim Cherry. That was it. That was all. Childhood and Saturdays was a blast! No cell phones, no child predators lurking the streets (we knew everyone who belonged). Just simple childhood fun.

    What is your ode to Saturday?


    10 0

    Millie Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - No matter who you are or what business you are in, you're vulnerable to a cyber attack. That's the unfortunate reality of the times we live in.

    Think you're immune? There are millions of cyberattacks in the United States every year, with big companies like Home Depot, Adobe Systems, Sony, Citigroup, Target, Facebook, Evernote and The New York Times taking the biggest hits and falling victim.

    And like Fortune 500 companies that seemingly have the resources to battle data breaches, small businesses are just as exposed, if not more so. According to a Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report more than 70 percent of the businesses in the study that were breached had fewer than 100 employees. Those breaches result in huge losses. Trend Micro found that "cybercriminals steal as much as $1 billion a year from SMBs in the United States and Europe, alone."

    Which begs the question: If both large and small companies and the U.S. government can be compromised (even with security protocols in place), then what does that mean for individuals?

    It's a question that Dr. Robert Short, chief technology officer and chief technical scientist of VirnetX, struggled with and finally answered in the form of Gabriel, a set of secure encrypted communication apps derived from a CIA-sponsored Department of Defense project.

    "The genesis of Gabriel really was trying to solve the problem of how you make security transparent to the user. The means to automatically create a secure connection whenever a secure connection is needed to wherever it is needed, and create it on demand," says Short. "That has always been the vision behind Gabriel."

    The difference between Gabriel and other products, says Short, is that users do not have to transmit data to or store data with any third party, including VirnetX. In this way, data is stored only on their own devices. Essentially, users maintain control of their own data.

    Gabriel users also have secure, encrypted (spamless) email, text messages, free voice and video calls and picture or file share with other trusted Gabriel users in their network -- all directly from their personal device.

    Gabriel runs on iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows and Mac OSX. For more information or to download Gabriel go to gabrielsecure.com, the App Store or the Google Play store.

    Ref: Datacenters - in Blogs
    40 0

    Millie Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Preparing to pop the question this Valentine's Day, but unsure how to choose the right engagement ring? Read on for all the tools you need to make the perfect pick!

    While choosing an engagement ring can be exciting, the variety of settings, precious metals, and diamonds can be overwhelming. However, the following tips will help you in finding the ideal diamond engagement ring.

    Set your price limit.

    Before you start shopping, know how much you want to spend. There is no right or wrong amount to put toward a ring, and many beautiful stones and styles are available to suit any budget. It's important to note that lab-grown diamonds can be up to 40 percent less expensive than mined stones.

    Learn the "4 C's" of diamonds.

    These are: cut, color, clarity, and carat. Here's the translation:

    Cut: The cut of a diamond is the most important factor in determining its fire, brilliance, and sparkle.

    Color: Not all diamonds are clear; some have varying tints of yellow.

    Clarity: A measure of the number of flaws or inclusions in the stone.

    Carat: A measure of the weight of the diamond. However, more weight also indicates a bigger size.

    Consider shape.

    The common diamond shapes used in engagement rings are round, cushion, pear, oval, princess, radiant, and emerald.

    Each of these shapes has its fans and distinctive features. For example, a round diamond is the classic engagement ring style, but the larger facets of a cushion style can enhance brilliance, and the elongated emerald cut presents a bold look that can make a diamond appear larger than its carat weight.

    Choose a setting.

    Deciding the right setting or diamond shape for your stone is a personal decision. Some people have specific ideas for a setting, and take more time on the stone, or vice versa.

    However, not all settings accommodate all shapes so it's important to prioritize one or the other if you are set on a particular shape or setting.

    Typical engagement ring styles include the solitaire, a simple band that showcases any diamond shape; halo, in which a central stone is surrounded by smaller diamonds; classic, which features a row of accent diamonds along the ring band; and vintage, which replicates design styles from different time periods.

    Contemplate your center stone.

    When it comes to your center stone, there are a few different options to choose from. Although diamonds are the most popular, birthstones, moissanite, and cubic zirconia are also great budget-friendly options.

    In regards to diamonds, there are two types to choose from: mined diamonds and lab-created diamonds.

    While mined diamonds are extracted from the earth, lab-grown stones are guaranteed to be ethically sourced and, as mentioned above, up to 40 percent less expensive.

    Both types are identical in terms of chemistry and physical appearance. However, interest in lab-created diamonds has surged in recent years as more couples are concerned with sustainability, as well as beauty and romance.

    Ref: Dating - in Blogs
    61 0

    Millie Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Now more than ever, building relationships is important to small businesses so they can compete in the global marketplace.

    The Smart Money Network is a community of digital marketing experts whose mission is to support entrepreneurs as they grow their businesses, especially in the new and increasingly online economy.

    Having a partner to navigate the field of digital marketing can help small businesses get the edge they need. The Smart Money Network collaborates with small business clients and coaches them on how to engage a target audience with the right message at the right time, using a combination of digital tools and the power of persuasion.

    The Collaboration Starts with A Conversation.

    "Conversation is the seed of opportunity," according to the Smart Money Network website. Experts work with small business owners and entrepreneurs to find and build relationships with their target audiences using social media platforms such as LinkedIn, then deploy tried-and-true principles of persuasion that convert to new business opportunities.

    Author Robert Cialdini describes six principles of persuasion in his book, "Influence - The Psychology of Persuasion." These principles include the concepts of scarcity (making your product or service seem more desirable), reciprocity (using small favors to entice), likability (pleasantness can go a long way), consensus (word of mouth that others use your product or service), consistency (customers need to feel they can count on what you say you will deliver), and authority (make sure you support your products or services with facts about your experience and credentials).

    These principles can be applied in the world of digital marketing, which is becoming increasingly essential in the post-COVID-19 entrepreneurial environment. More people are spending more time online, and learning how to grab the attention of potential clients can help businesses flourish.

    Smart Money Network creates intentional done-for-you social media campaigns that position clients as authoritative and credible resources, and drives up to 30 new business opportunities a month.

    According to Smart Money Founder and CEO Mike Harris, "You only have about three seconds to capture someone's attention and give them enough information to determine whether you are worth connecting with."

    Visit smartmoneynetwork.net to learn more about how to make the digital connections that can boost your business.

    Ref: Finance - in Blogs
    64 0

    Samuel ic_sammie
    Bent in Heaven's Twist

    I wear a smile, a fragile disguise
    A mask that hides, the tears I've cried
    The heavens twist, in a cruel design
    A fate that's sealed, yet I'm left to redefine

    In heavenly design, I'm lost in pain
    A twist of fate, that drives me insane
    The stars align, yet I'm still unsure
    A celestial guide, that's hard to endure

    I'm bent and broken, in a world so grand
    A fragile soul, in a body so unplanned
    The heavens whisper, "You're strong and free"
    But I'm trapped in doubts, that haunt me relentlessly

    I search for answers, in the darkest night
    A glimmer of hope, that shines with all its might
    But the twist of fate, it plays a cruel game
    Leaving me shattered, with a heart that's tamed

    In twisted threads, I'm woven with flaws
    A fragile fabric, with scars that never fade
    The heavens bend, in a mysterious spin
    A divine irony, that I'm forced to give in

    I'm a paradox, of strength and weakness combined
    A human heart, that's constantly redefined
    The twist of heaven's hand, a mysterious fate
    A life that's unpredictable, with moments that create

    I yearn for solace, in the chaos and strife
    A peaceful haven, where I can be alive
    But the heavens twist, in a celestial rhyme
    A melody of pain, that echoes through my prime

    In this twisted world, I'm searching for a light
    A guiding star, that shines through the darkest night
    A beacon of hope, that leads me to the shore
    Where I can find peace, and be forever more.

    17 0

    Alkuansinta alkocoko
    When discussing Indonesia's most internationally recognized tourist destinations, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan in Bedugul, Bali, stands as an unparalleled landmark. This magnificent temple represents far more than a conventional tourist attraction—it embodies the perfect harmony between Bali's traditional architecture and the breathtaking natural beauty of the island's mountainous regions, captivating millions of visitors from around the globe.

    Primary Attractions of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

    Pura Ulun Danu Beratan serves as one of Bali's most renowned icons, demonstrating the seamless integration of traditional Balinese architecture with stunning mountain landscapes. Bali's deeply rooted cultural heritage and spiritual traditions make this temple an extraordinary magnet for both domestic and international tourists.
    Located in Candikuning Village, Baturiti District, Tabanan Regency, the temple stands gracefully on the northwestern shore of Lake Beratan. Its strategic position on the lake, surrounded by verdant hills, creates panoramic views that are both spectacular and highly photogenic.

    Rich History and Profound Philosophy

    Pura Ulun Danu Beratan possesses an extensive history, constructed in 1556 Caka or 1634 CE by I Gusti Agung Putu, the King of Mengwi during that period. Archaeological artifacts discovered within the temple complex are estimated to be approximately 500 years older than the Common Era, indicating that this area has served as a sacred site for the Balinese community for centuries.
    The temple's construction originated from the story of I Gusti Agung Putu's defeat against I Gusti Ngurah Batu Tumpeng. Following his loss, the king performed meditation and spiritual retreat at the peak of Mount Mangu, seeking enlightenment and divine power. After receiving blessings, he arose and began constructing this temple as an expression of gratitude and a plea for protection.
    The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers in Balinese Hindu beliefs, recognizing the critical importance of Lake Beratan as the primary irrigation source for central Bali. The temple's construction also represents a petition for agricultural fertility, prosperity, welfare, and environmental preservation of the surrounding area.

    Magnificent Architecture and Temple Complex

    Pura Ulun Danu Beratan comprises four temple complexes and one stupa: Pura Lingga Petak as the place of worship for Lord Shiva, Pura Dalem Purwa for worshipping Dewi Danu, and a Buddhist Stupa symbolizing harmony and unity among religious communities.
    The eleven-tiered meru building, which serves as the primary spiritual center of the complex, showcases captivating traditional Balinese architecture. Every detail of carving and ornamentation on the temple buildings reflects the exceptional artistic and spiritual values of Balinese society.

    Refreshing Mountain Natural Beauty

    One of the primary advantages of visiting Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is the remarkably cool and refreshing mountain atmosphere. Located in the Bedugul highlands at approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, this area offers clean air and cool temperatures, providing a stark contrast to Bali's typically hot and humid coastal regions.
    The presence of the expansive and pristine Lake Beratan enhances the natural coolness of the area. Visitors can enjoy views of the tranquil lake with stunning temple reflections, particularly during morning hours when thin mist still envelops the water surface.

    Current Ticket Prices and Facilities Information

    For 2025, entrance ticket prices for Pura Ulun Danu Beratan have been adjusted. Domestic tourists are charged IDR 40,000 for regular days and IDR 50,000 for weekends and national holidays. International tourists pay IDR 75,000 for adults and IDR 50,000 for children.
    In addition to entrance tickets, visitors must pay parking fees of IDR 3,000 for motorcycles, IDR 5,000 for cars, and IDR 10,000 for buses. Supporting facilities available in the area are quite comprehensive, including adequate parking areas, restrooms, food stalls, and rest areas.

    International Recognition and Iconic Status

    Pura Ulun Danu Beratan enjoys widespread international recognition. One of the highest honors achieved by this temple was when its image was immortalized as the design on Indonesia's former 50,000 rupiah banknotes. This distinction established the temple as one of Indonesia's most globally recognized landmarks.
    The beauty and architectural uniqueness of the temple standing above the lake waters have made it an extremely popular photography subject on international social media platforms. Professional photographers and tourists from various countries travel specifically to capture the temple's extraordinary beauty.

    Tourist Activities and Experiences

    The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan complex covers a substantial area, allowing tourists to explore freely, enjoy various perspectives, and spend quality time at this location. Visitors can engage in numerous activities including exploring the temple complex while learning about the history and philosophy of each building. The well-maintained temple area, featuring colorful flower gardens, provides highly enjoyable visual experiences.
    Photography represents the primary activity undertaken by visitors. Every corner of the temple offers compelling photographic angles, from temple reflections on the lake surface to silhouettes of towering meru structures against mountain backdrops.
    Visitors frequently experience the spiritual atmosphere and tranquility emanating from the temple complex. Many guests report feelings of inner peace and spiritual inspiration during their visits to this sacred site.

    Optimal Visiting Times

    To achieve the best experience, visiting during morning hours between 06:00-09:00 WIB is recommended. During this period, the air remains exceptionally cool, sunlight provides optimal conditions for photography, and visitor numbers remain manageable. Additionally, morning hours often feature thin mist phenomena enveloping the lake, creating highly mystical and photogenic atmospheres.

    Conclusion

    Pura Ulun Danu Beratan transcends conventional tourist destinations—it serves as a window showcasing Indonesia's cultural wealth, spirituality, and natural beauty. The perfect combination of magnificent traditional architecture, refreshing mountain natural beauty, and profound historical significance establishes this temple as an essential destination when visiting Bali.
    For those seeking travel experiences beyond ordinary recreation, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan offers a blend of education, spirituality, and visual beauty that creates lasting impressions. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this internationally renowned Indonesian icon and personally experience its unforgettable charm.
    Have you visited Pura Ulun Danu Beratan? Share your experiences and impressions in the comments section. If this article proves beneficial, please share it with friends planning vacations to Bali.
    25 0

    Rebecca Rebecca_Ebert


    97 0

    Aric Aric_Feeney


    86 0
Load More