Review of "Nobody's Perfect"

Kallypso Masters has delivered another great book in her series Rescue Me. Her third installment "Nobody's Perfect" is the story of Damian Orlando and Savannah Baker. It begins eight years after they've lost touch with each other. Savannah is running for her and her daughter's life and heads to the only person she can trust; Damian.

I suggest readers begin with the free Prequel on Amazon.com "Masters at Arms". That is where you'll find the beginning of Savannah's and Damian's story.

Being with Damian reawakens repressed memories and feelings she does want to keep hidden--buried. Sex is associated with pain and she doesn't want the feelings Damian is awakening. But she can't help remember that one day eight years ago and constantly reminds herself she can trust Damian and sex with him is more like love. Something Savi's never experienced for a man.

Damian has turned to SM to regain control of his life and emotions and fulfills the role of Service Top to "bottoms" in the club in need of catharsis by whipping or other SM practices he is skilled at delivering. But he could never deliver that level of pain to Savi, who needs someone gentle and loving, not the man he has become. But when Savi witnesses a cathartic whipping scene on her first night at the club--delivered by Damian--she begins to wonder if this Damian could also help her regain control of her life and reclaim her sexuality and identity.

Don't dismiss this story as another erotic novel by the blurb above. While it is in that category. I have to say this story is an emotional roller coaster for those who've experienced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD and those who haven't.

The scenes are volatile, but love and care is given just as much attention as delving into her psyche to reveal secrets Savi's long repressed.

(Quote) "It will never be okay. I will never be okay. I'm too broken." "Nobody's perfect, Savi. Hell, look at me. But you'll always be perfect to me."

In my own situation as with the characters, counseling has been a part of their recovery. Keep an open mind when reading the book.

This book was by far the most emotionally charged of the series. Don't get me wrong I've loved all of the books so far. I was on edge with Savi and her dealing with PTSD; not to take away what Damien was going through, but you'll see he's worked through a lot of his PTSD through BDSM in earlier books.

(Quote) "Savi held onto his wounded leg, wrapping both arms around it and laid her forehead against his knee. She wished she could shed tears for him, but she hadn't been able to cry in... forever."

Kallypso has kept the story responsible, loving and cathartic. By the end the characters have come to a solution, but their happy ever after is going to take a while and more sessions to get Savi to where she's fully healed.

(Quote) "Marisol told me once you'd forgotten you were a princess. I just wanted to make sure you never forget again. You're my princess, Savita. I'll never let anything happen to you. I'll slay your dragons. I'll chase away the demons that invade your sleep - and, trust me, I know they will come - but they're no match for me, my love. I'll be there for you no matter what - if you'll let me be."

What Is Crystal Gazing?

The term crystal gazing is a form of seeing visions by the means of using several different objects. There are several schools of thought as to the sources of the visions seen in the crystal gazing trance. Crystal gazing may be used by practitioners sometimes called "readers" or "seers" for a variety of purposes. These may include to predict the future, to give character analyses, to tell fortunes, or to help a person or client make choices about current situations and problems.

Whatever tool or object used to induce the crystal gazer's trance can be achieved with any shiny object, including a crystalline gem stone or a convex mirror. In more common practices, a crystal ball is most often used to gaze into and consult with. Some gazers use what is called a "palm ball" which is held in their hand while others use a larger ball which is mounted on a stand. Whatever form of method a psychic or fortune-teller chooses to use, will usher them into the unseen spirit realm and will assist them in contacting the supernatural.

Old Testament ~ The Urim and Thummim

In the Old Testament of the Bible you will find where the priest would inquire of God by using what is called the Urim and the Thummim. The Urim means "lights" the oracular brilliancy of the figures in the high priest breastplate. The Thummim means "perfections" one of the objects in the high priest breastplate that represented complete truth.

The earth and everything on it belong to the Lord, this includes the world and all its people belong to Him. God is the creator of everything, but Satan has a counterfeit for everything God created. This is especially true when it comes to the things of the supernatural. God has prophecy, Satan has witchcraft. God has true prophets, Satan has false prophets, and God has the Holy Spirit and Satan has crystal gazing, fortune tellers, mediums and psychics.

In the Old Testament God revealed His mind and spoke to His people through the priest inquiring of the Urim and Thummim. He would lead the people by shining light and speaking truth through these crystals which were placed on the breastplate of the high priest. Before the priest made any decisions for the people of God, He was instructed to first consult with God. As God's strategies, plans for the future and other knowledge was revealed through these stones, the priest were obedient and the Israelites received total and complete victory.

New Testament ~ The Holy Spirit

Before Jesus ascended to Heaven He told His disciples that if He would go away, but He would send them a comforter. This comforter is the Holy Spirit. The gift of the Holy Spirit was what Jesus gives to the believers to comfort them, teach them, reveal truth, lead them and direct them according to the mind of God. The same way God used the Urim and the Thummim in the Old Testament, Jesus came in the New Testament died and shed His blood for us on the cross and became a mediator between us and God. The veil was torn in the temple which was a sign of the partition between us and God being done away with. Jesus became our high priest and we no longer need a priest to inquire through the Urim and Thummim to seek God on our behalf. The blood of Jesus made it possible for us as believers to have access and to come boldly before the throne of God to receive revelation knowledge of whatever we need to know. It is when we come into the presence of God that He reveals the secret things and hidden knowledge to us by His Holy Spirit.

As believers we are to never to consult with mediums or fortune tellers to try and find out our future or speaking to the dead. All methods such as crystal gazing, tarot card reading, tea leaves, reading palms and all other forms of seeking hidden and dark knowledge is totally forbidden. The methods by which those that practice these forms of the occult are considered devilish wisdom and it does not come from God.

Crystal Gazing Is Forbidden

Just as it was in the Old Testament many many years ago before Christ, it still remains today that God forbids believers to obtain hidden knowledge through crystal gazing and other forms of the occult. As Christians when we want to inquire about anything concerning our lives we must seek the Holy Spirit to show us, reveal to us and give us truth concerning these matters. It is before the throne of God that we obtain the mercy of God and truth.

In the book of Revelation 4:5-6 it speaks of the sea of glass like crystal that is before the throne of God. It is through this sea of glass that all things are made known concerning the past, present and the future. Everything in life is seen before the throne of God clear as crystal. God knows all and He sees all and there is nothing that is hidden from His face.

Deuteronomy 18:9-14

When you come into the land that the Lord your God is giving you, don't learn to do the terrible things the people of the other nations there do. Don't sacrifice your sons or daughters in the fires on your altars. Don't try to learn what will happen in the future by talking to a fortune teller or by going to a magician, a witch, or a sorcerer. Don't let anyone try to put magic spells on other people. Don't let any of your people become a medium or a wizard. And no one should try to talk with someone who has died. The Lord hates anyone who does these things. And because these other nations do these terrible things, the Lord your God will force them out of the land as you enter it. You must be faithful to the Lord your God, never doing anything he considers wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pet Insurance

Before buying a policy people have various questions. Here are a few of the most common questions on pet insurance answered.

What is a pet insurance policy?

This policy protects you against unforeseen financial circumstances relating to your pete.g. veterinary bills.

What cover levels are available?

There are generally three kinds of cover levels namely: - Essential cover, Premium cover and Premium Plus cover.

Essential Cover

This covers your veterinary fees in case of accidental injury of your dogs and cats and for third party liability for your dogs only.

Premier Cover

This policy covers your pet for a 12 months period from the date of loss or illness or injury. You can renew the policy after 12 months but it will no longer cover the existing illness. This policy provides coverage for Third Party Liability, Death from Accident, Boarding Kennel/Cattery Fees, Theft /Straying, Holiday Cancellation and Lost/Found ads and also offers optional cover for Overseas Cover which includes Quarantine, Emergency Repatriation and Loss of Passport.

Premier Plus Cover

This policy covers veterinary fees for the lifetime of the pet. Premier Plus Cover includes the same cover as the Premier cover but once the policy is renewed each year, the policy will continue to cover the pet for its lifetime.

Can I insure a pet of any age?

One cannot insure a pet of any age, there is an age limit with every insurance company. Generally this policy is offered for pets that are above 8 months of age and under 8 years of age.

When does coverage starts?

Basically coverage for injury starts as soon as one buys the policy, although coverage for illness is not included for the first 14 days of the policy with many insurance companies.

How to make a claim?

To make a claim one must call the claims helpline or if one can't do that then this facility is also available on internet as many insurance companies create their website for user's benefit, where one can make a claim by downloading a claims form online and posting it to the claims department.

Can one get a discount for more than one pet?

Yes, most companies provide discounts for multiple pets.

How to pay for the policy?

One can pay their premium as a once off payment by Laser/Debit Card or Credit Card online or over the phone or alternatively, some companies will offer a direct debit payment option.

A Few Recommended Spa Treatments for Men

A trip to the spa is typically associated with females; however, there is plenty for men to enjoy at the spa too. A session at the spa is not only good for relaxing; it can be good for your health, skin condition and general well-being as well. Everyone deserves to look and feel their best so there are a number of spa treatments available which are perfect for men to lie back and enjoy.

Grooming for Feet

Although feet are normally kept tucked up in warm socks, it is still important that they are kept in good condition. Grooming for feet is the ideal treatment to enjoy after a hard few months of keeping on your toes at work. The process involves relaxing the muscles with therapeutic aromatherapy oils and conditioning the skin and nails so that they are replenished with the necessary moisture for healthy feet.

Back Massage

A back massage is the kind of treatment that you never knew you needed until you have had your first massage. The feeling of stresses and tensions being rubbed out of your muscles is simply incredible, and afterwards you will feel like the spring in your step (or back!) has been given a new lease of life. The massage expert can provide a massage which is tailored to your needs, so it is an excellent spa treatment for experiencing a personal treatment. And remember, James Bond was partial to a back massage or two!

Hot Stone Therapy

When used correctly by expert hands, hot stones can be a gateway to ultimate relaxation. The healing powers of stones have been used for centuries, and experts know exactly what key energy points to place the hot or cold stones on to create the greatest sensation of both relaxation and rejuvenation. When combined with warm oils too, both your body and mind will benefit from the rebalancing powers of the stones.

Scalp Treatment

At work, you may sometimes find yourself rubbing your temples in search of a bit of a break. With a scalp treatment, you can professionally massage away all of these stresses and also treat your hair and your skin too. Massaging with essential oils not only sooths the brain, it also conditions and strengthens hair, adding shine and vitality from root to tip. It is not recommended for anyone with migraines or any kind of scalp disorder, but it is a truly wonderful experience for those who can undergo it.

Is a Vacation Home Right For You?

Many of us dream about owning the vacation home in the Mountains, or on the Lake or Ocean. A place where one can retreat periodically from the hustle-bustle of everyday life. However, for those who do achieve the financial resources to make such a purchase, there are several factors that should be considered first prior to taking the plunge.

Owning a Vacation Home can be a wonderful experience, but it is a huge commitment and responsibility. When one first thinks of owning a Vacation Home, we think of only the positives, such as a quiet remote location where we can get away from it all. A place where we can swim, fish, hike, and ski. Unfortunately for many, they forget about the other realities: location and travel time, upkeep and the associated costs, high property taxes, their children's school and other home activities, guests. All of these put stress on the new Vacation Home owner, and how they prepare ahead of time to address these issues determines how enjoyable their new purchase will be.

The first item to consider when purchasing a Vacation Home is location. Is it near enough from your main home such that you can enjoy it regularly enough? If not, consider another investment. The last thing you want to do is make a huge investment in property that you can not regularly enjoy. Though real estate has always been considered a good investment it is not considered liquid, and expensive vacation homes can take a long time to sell.

Cost of upkeep and property taxes should also be heavily considered. Maintaining a vacation home is not cheap and the local town officials love to hit the vacation homes hard with property tax bills.

One also needs to consider his or her own weekend responsibilities and those of their children. Sports team events, clubs and organizations as well as maintaining the main house will eat into the time available to head to the weekend get-away. And if you have teenagers, they have their own dates and plans. Be prepared, more times than not, for having to forgo the weekend retreat for your children and other responsibilities.

One of the other aspects of owning a Vacation Home is having guests. This is a double edge sword. You want to have guests to share in your retreat. However, the upkeep, food and cooking can become overwhelming. Also, when guests visit, they are on vacation, but you may not necessarily be. It is important to let friends and families understand this, otherwise prepare for unexpected meals outs and other activities.

Owning a Vacation Home can be, and is for most, a wonderful experience. Those who truly enjoy them, usually have to go through an adjustment cycle. First the euphoria phase, followed by a frustration and exhaustion phase, and finally the true enjoyment stage. The enjoyment phase occurs when one has developed a balance between the pros of owning a vacation home and the other responsibilities of their lives.

What Is Wardriving And How Can You Prevent It

Imagine a car equipped with nothing more than a laptop computer, a portable GPS receiver, and a wireless network card slowly strolls through your neighborhood. Unknown to any onlookers, this is no ordinary vehicle; rather, it is a wardriving machine. As the car strolls past homes and businesses, a wireless network card (available at any electronics store for as low as $25) scans for any wireless access points. Anyone with a wireless network (and there are many out there) is vulnerable. The computer is looking for what is called an SSID. An SSID is your wireless network name and it is being constantly transmitted by your access point, letting computers know of its presence. The wardriver uses software such as Netstumbler (for windows) or Cismet (for linux) to scan the airwaves for SSIDs. The program can track various access points at once and monitor the signal strength. These programs can also check to see if the network is encrypted. The wardriver will generally configure his or her software to log any strong unencrypted signals. Using the GPS receiver, the coordinates of the strong signal will be recorded. After this preliminary drive, the wardriver can return to the locations that were recorded, and connect to the access point. Once connected to an unencrypted network, the wardriver can use the victim's internet access, and can also explore computers on the network. If files are being shared within someone's private network, all of that information is susceptible to a wardriver. Furthermore, once in the network, a wardriver can sniff network traffic and can view any information such as passwords and credit card numbers you send out to the internet - even SSL secured data. Wireless network vulnerability is a major problem, and as more and more households purchase wireless technology, the problem of insecure networks increases. Sound scary? Well this happens every day, and it doesn't take an expert to pull off. It doesn't take an expert to protect against either, however.

Steps you can take to protect against wardrivers:

There are a number of very simple steps you can take to protect your wireless network. For many of these, you will have to access your router configuration utility (check your manual on how to do this, you will generally need to type an IP address into your browser such as 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).

Don't broadcast your SSID. If you are broadcasting your SSID, this is the first thing a program will pickup and recognize. If you configure your router to not broadcast your SSID, it will be difficult to detect (but not impossible, for some software can sniff wireless communication, so if you are using your wireless network, the SSID can be revealed). If you are not broadcasting your SSID, but it can be guessed (such as if you are using a default SSID), cloaking is pointless. Due to this, remember to change your SSID from the factory default. This is not a 100 percent effective method to secure your network, but it is a good first line of defense.

Change the default password. When you buy a router, a factory password is stored. People experienced in working with routers know the default passwords for different routers (and the make of the router can be seen by wardriver software such as netstumbler). It is important that you secure your router with a good password.

Encrypt your wireless communication. I can't stress the importance of encrypting your wireless communication enough. Enable encryption and enter a key. Most routers are only capable of WEP encryption, but if they permit, use EAP encryption, it's more secure than WEP. Like cloaking your SSID, encryption is not 100 percent secure. Given enough time and determination, if someone wants to target you and access your network, WEP encryption can be bypassed using software such as AirSnort.

Filter the MAC addresses that are allowed to connect to your router. This would require that you enter your router configuration and input the MAC address of each wireless card you have. This will restrict access so that only your computers can connect to the router. You will need to obtain the MAC address (which is the individual identification address of a network card in the form a 12 digit hexadecimal number). If someone sniffs traffic and detects the MAC address of a computer wirelessly using your network, the wardriver could emulate that address and connect to the router, but this takes time.

If you configure file sharing on your computers, make sure it is password protected. You should not share files on your networked computers unless it requires an authenticated user to access. Set up the same user accounts on your machines so that your computers can share files.

With these relatively simple steps, wireless network users can secure their networks from wardrivers. Wireless networks are inherently insecure, and these tips will merely help you greater secure your network. If someone is really determined to gain access to your network, given enough time, a good hacker can get access. These tips will deter the average wardriver from gaining access to your network, however. Although these methods are not definite security measures, they will change your network from being something that can be hacked in a matter of seconds, to something that will take a determined hacker days if not weeks of work, all of which will have to be done while in close proximity to your network.