IT'S UNIQUE.

Music: Justin Timberlake - Mirrors After his successful...

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:57:00 +0100

Music: Justin Timberlake - Mirrors

After his successful performance at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, Justin Timberlake let loose another single from his upcoming third studio album “The 20/20 Experience”. The single, titled “Mirrors”, features production from his longtime producer and friend Timbaland. The production on this record is outstanding and JT is nothing short of his vintage self.

The smooth sounding track is over 8 minutes long. Definitely a refreshing sound that the music industry has been lacking since JT went on his six year hiatus after his second album.

“And now it’s clear as this promise,
That we’re making,
Two reflections into one,
Cause it’s like you’re my mirror.”

Architecture: SGNW House, Zimbali, South Africa

Sat, 09 Feb 2013 10:10:45 +0100

The spectacular SGNW House was designed by Metropole Architects and is embedded in the lush vegetation of Zimbali, South Africa. No matter what the standpoint, this modern home offers details that inspire and amaze. According to the official description provided by the architects:

Several bodies of water, including Koi ponds, water features and a rim flow swimming pool appear to coalesce into one, and flow through the house and out into the forest. The stacked roof is fragmented and linked with flat roof slabs, in correspondence to the spatial arrangement of the rooms below, which both scales and articulates the massing of the house. The main bedroom suite cantilevers six meters over the patio below, providing protection from the weather. As well as “wow” factor. Large amounts of glazing optimize views of the indigenous bush that encapsulates the house, and together with the palette of raw materials including natural timber, off shutter concrete, water and natural stone cladding, offset the clean architectural lines with a warmth and Zen like ambiance.

Due to a daring mix of colors and decorating elements, each room is more surprising than the next!

Source: Freshome

Why Do You Like Photography?

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:24:00 +0100

I really like photography because you capture moments. Moments that are often unique and individual. It’s the way of expressing what you feel within. Personally, it’s all about appreciating the beauty and expressing creativity.

There is a connection between you and the subject which I think is the most important factor for a beautiful output.

Sports: NFL Playoffs 2012/13 - Super Bowl XLVII

Sun, 03 Feb 2013 22:57:07 +0100

After a wild Championship Weekend, the contestants for Super Bowl XLVII have been set. The San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens will square off in a matchup headlined by head coaching brothers Jim and John Harbaugh.

The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome in the early game, coming back from an early 17-0 hole to win the game by a score of 28-24.

Then, in the late game, the Baltimore Ravens ran the New England Patriots out of their own building, winning convincingly by a score of 28-13.

This sets up an epic matchup for Super Bowl XLVII, and I want to take a look at key position where the teams have an edge.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Baltimore Ravens

Date: February 3, 2013, 6:30 p.m. ET
Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

- Quarterbacks (QBs) -

Colin Kaepernick didn’t shrink back under the bright lights of prime time. Posting an incredible 181 YDS and 2 TDs on the ground against the Green Bay Packers to go along with 263 YDS and 2 TDs through the air.

Then, in the biggest game of his life on the road in Atlanta, Kaepernick proved he can win games as a pure pocket passer, completing 16/21 passes for 233 YDS with 1 TD and 0 INTs against a defense that had forced 20 INTs during the regular season—tied with the New England Patriots for No. 5 in the NFL.

Joe Flacco is riding a hot streak right now and his success in the playoffs speaks for itself. Flacco has a playoff record of 8-4, and he’s getting better as the postseason wears on.

In his last four games, Flacco has thrown 8 TDs and 0 INTs, and his Ravens have won three of those four contests.

Advantage:Ravens

- Defensive Line (D-Line) -

There aren’t many teams that feature as dominant of a defensive line as the 49ers.

Justin Smith, even with just one arm, is one of the most powerful interior linemen—both against the run and as a pass-rusher—in the NFL. Ray McDonald on the other side of the team’s 3-4 alignment is nearly as dominant, and the two of them both made Pro Football Focus’ top-10 for 3-4 defensive ends.

Isaac Sopoaga is a beast in the middle, as the team’s nose tackle, and this trio is tough to run against, as the 49ers’ No. 4-ranked run defense attests.

Haloti Ngata is one of the NFL’s premier defensive linemen, and when he’s healthy, he’s darn near impossible to stop.

Unfortunately, Ngata hasn’t been healthy for most of the year, and his counterparts on the line haven’t been able to pick up the slack.

The Ravens allowed nearly 2,000 YDS rushing in 2012, ranking No. 20 in the NFL. The team’s 15 rushing TDs allowed ranked No. 23 in the league, and what used to be one of the team’s biggest strengths is now an area of concern.

Advantage: 49ers

- Linebackers (LBs) -

The 49ers feature the most complete, most dominant group of linebackers in the NFL.

Patrick Willis, NaVorro Bowman and Aldon Smith all made the AP’s first-team All-Pro team, and Ahmad Brooks made it on the second-team All-Pro team.

Smith and Brooks accounted for 26 sacks, and Brooks is one of the most underrated 3-4 outside linebackers in the league.

Willis and Bowman represent the most dynamic pair of inside linebackers in the league. It doesn’t matter which team they are up against, the 49ers will have the better linebacker corps.

Ray Lewis is one of the NFL’s greatest defenders of all time, but he’s no longer in his prime. Lewis’ leadership skills are unrivaled, but he isn’t the same player on the field as he was even two years ago.

Paul Kruger and Terrell Suggs bring excellent pressure off the edges, and rookie Courtney Upshaw is a player who may end up becoming great at some point, but the Ravens linebacker corps is one in transition.

If Lewis were a few years younger and if Suggs were fully healthy, this unit would challenge the 49ers. But now, it’s not close.

Advantage: 49ers

- Headcoaches (HCs) -

Jim Harbaugh has taken the 49ers back to the promised land after a dry period that saw more losing seasons than winners under Dennis Erickson, Mike Nolan and Mike Singletary.

His controversial decision to start Colin Kaepernick over Alex Smith has proven to be the right one, though the 49ers fanbase, local and national media were split on the topic for most of the latter part of the 2012 season.

Since becoming the team’s head coach, Harbaugh’s 49ers have gone 24-7-1 during the regular season and 3-1 in the playoffs.

John Harbaugh has taken the Ravens to the playoffs every single year since becoming the team’s head coach in 2008.

His team has gone 8-4 in that time, and there’s no doubting the fact that the Ravens are more battle-tested than the 49ers heading into Super Bowl XLVII.

Furthermore, John Harbaugh’s leadership style has proven to be a perfect match for Baltimore’s veteran-laden group, and at this point in his career, he is a step ahead of his younger brother.

Advantage: Ravens

______________

- OVERALL -

There’s no doubt that Super Bowl XLVII will be a closely-contested battle the entire way. Super Bowl XLVII will come down to which team executes their game plan without making mistakes.

I’ll go with a Ravens win in what appeared to be the last game of Ray Lewis career.

Pick: Ravens

Movies: "Silver Linings Playbook" (2012) Review

Sat, 02 Feb 2013 20:12:10 +0100

Director: David O. Russell
Stars: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Chris Tucker, Jacki Weaver

STORY

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Pat Solatano (Bradley Cooper) has lost everything — his house, his job, and his wife. He now finds himself living back with his mother (Jacki Weaver) and father (Robert DeNiro) after spending eight months in a state institution on a plea bargain.

Pat is determined to rebuild his life, remain positive and reunite with his wife, despite the challenging circumstances of their separation. All Pat’s parents want is for him to get back on his feet-and to share their family’s obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles football team.

When Pat meets Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a mysterious girl with problems of her own, things get complicated. Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with his wife, but only if he’ll do something very important for her in return. As their deal plays out, an unexpected bond begins to form between them, and silver linings appear in both of their lives.

REVIEW

In “Silver Linings Playbook”, director David O. Russell attempts to fashion a winsome romantic comedy that also addresses mental illness with perceptiveness and sensitivity.

It’s not an easy maneuver to pull off. But it works because the source material, a novel by Matthew Quick, is rooted in an actual place populated by relatable characters, the acting ensemble is terrific, and Russell, who writes and directs, doesn’t shy away from akwardness or feel-good sentiment.

The great strength of Russell’s writing and direction resides in the way he consistently manages to retain a comic tone without losing touch with the characters’ pains and anxieties. There are numerous scenes that in other hands would be as excruciatingly embarrassing on the screen as they would be in real life. But Russell involves us so closely in what we’re watching that we become emotional participants. And that’s because he cares for these people in a wholly unpatronising fashion.

By the way “Silver Linings Playbook” is only the 14th film to ever receive at least one Oscar nomination in each of the four acting categories — and the first to do so in 31 years.

Best Actor (Bradley Cooper), Best Actress (Jennifer Lawrence), Best Supporting Actress (Jacki Weaver) and Best Supporting Actor (Robert De Niro).

The message about silver linings — about our abilty to overcome unfortunate circumstances — feels less like a Hollywood contriviance than the truth. And the notion that the line between normal and crazy isn’t as clear as we often assume suggests that being judgmental short-circuits both hope and understanding.

__________________

8.5 / 10

Source: IMDB

Travelling: Hayman Hotel, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:32:00 +0100

Hayman five-star Hotel is located on a privileged island in Australia, and provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. The natural beauty surrounding the resort is just minutes away from exploring. This is probably why the 240 luxurious rooms of the hotel, included in suites, penthouses, villas and beach houses, are not just a way of guest pampering, but can also be considered the starting point of an unforgettable nature adventure. The hotel’s playful appearance, contrasted by the green forests and blue waters of the surrounding swimming pool, sets the tone for a holiday-inspired scenery. The interior design of the accommodation units tastefully combines modern details (precise geometric shapes and floor to ceiling glass windows) with more traditional furniture and wooden accents. The overall feeling is that of elegance and refinement throughout.

Source: Hayman Hotel

TV Series: "Suits" Season 2 Episode 12 - "Blood In The Water"

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:53:40 +0100

Episode Premiere: January 24, 2013

LOGLINE

The war with Daniel may be over, but the battle has left Pearson Hardman vulnerable, and Harvey must protect the firm from a rival whose attack seems as personal as it is professional.

SYNOPSIS

With his heart aching over Zoe a little more than he’d care to admit, Harvey comes into the office to find more bad news waiting for him: Trent Devon, a major client on the verge of taking his tech firm public, is thinking of leaving. It seems that word on the street is that Pearson Hardman is weak after their battle with Hardman, and the up-and-coming firm of Bratton Gould, under the new guidance of Allison Holt, is coming after clients and associates.

Already stewing over his aborted attempt at hiring his own associate, Louis unloads his frustration on Harold and fires him in a final public humiliation. At the same time, Harvey goes on the offensive to shore up his client base, but it’s clear that he’s taking the attacks on the firm a little too personally.

And when he mistakenly assumes Louis has betrayed Pearson Hardman, he unleashes a tirade that may settle the score with his in-house nemesis, but will only serve to tear down the ailing firm even further.

Meanwhile, Mike tries to make up for his recent mistakes by finding a way to keep Trent Devon from leaving. But one of Mike’s mistakes isn’t done with him yet, and when it finally catches up to him it won’t be pretty.

Next week: Harvey goes head to head against Robert Zane, Rachel’s father, on a gender discrimination case that forces Rachel to confront her complicated relationship with her dad.

Source: USANetwork

Harvey Specter: It’s one thing to become king of the hill. It’s another to stay...

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 17:15:49 +0100

Harvey Specter: It’s one thing to become king of the hill. It’s another to stay there.
Daniel Hardman: Accept this with grace, Harvey.
Harvey Specter: You want grace? I’ll give you the courtesy you never gave me. I’ll say it to your face. I’m coming for you.

Suits 2.10 “High Noon”

Style Breakdown: David Beckham - Out & About in London, England

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 19:15:00 +0100

Soccer star David Beckham was spotted showing off his dapper style out and about in London, England. The 37-year old looked extra cozy in a Burberry Prorsum Virgin Wool Blend Top Coat ($2,895), slacks, and a pair of Maison Martin Margiela coffee brown leather lace-up oxford shoes ($740).

Source: UpscaleHype

Sports: NFL 2012/13 Playoffs - Championship Games

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 03:26:00 +0100

After a lackluster Wild Card Round and a fantastic Divisional Round, the NFL world is buzzing with anticipation over the Conference Championships this weekend.

New England and Baltimore face off in a rematch of last year’s epic battle where the Ravens were a dropped touchdown and missed field goal away from going to the Super Bowl. Over in the NFC, the Atlanta Falcons’ high-octane offense hosts the San Francisco 49ers’ amazing defense as well as the NFL’s newest “most exciting player”— Colin Kaepernick.

So, who is heading to the Super Bowl XLVII on Feburary 4, 2013?

AFC

New England Patriots (2) vs. Baltimore Ravens (4)

The New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens meet for the second straight year in the AFC Championship Game, and momentum appears to be in the Ravens’ corner. Though the Patriots have the usual collection of offensive weapons, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has outplayed Patriots counterpart Tom Brady in their last two meetings—a telling statistic that shows just how well the Ravens respond to top-level talent.

But then again. Tom Brady. At home. The Patriots are rollin’, and this new-found run game will be the difference against the Ravens.

Pick: Patriots

NFC

Atlanta Falcons (1) vs. San Francisco 49ers (2)

I wasn’t sure Colin Kaepernick could win a playoff game; now, I’m not sure I can bet against him. The Niners did a great job of slow-playing their hand and surprising the Packers. What do they have up their sleeve for Atlanta?

Atlanta was lucky to get past Seattle. That doesn’t feel like a Super Bowl team at all. Even in Atlanta, I’m going with the hotter, more balanced and more talented 49ers.

Pick: 49ers

Source: BleacherReport | Rotoworld

TV Series: "Suits" Season 2 Episode 11 - "Blind-Sided"

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:40:00 +0100

Episode Premiere: January 17, 2013

LOGLINE

Harvey and Mike take on a criminal suit that hits close to home for Mike, who struggles to separate his personal feelings from the facts of the case.

SYNOPSIS

With the paint finally scraped from Hardman’s old office door and the struggle of the last few weeks behind them, the lawyers of Pearson Hardman have a little time to reflect, and maybe even celebrate. While Harvey follows his heart to a familiar face, Louis starts the search for a new associate and finds a little romance of a different kind.

Meanwhile, Mike hopes a return to work will help get his life back on track, but he soon learns that some of the choices he made in the wake of Grammy’s death - including his affair with Tess - can’t be wiped away so easily.

At the same time, Harvey and Mike are called in when a wealthy client’s son is involved in a late night hit-and-run. Though the ambitious ADA on the case talks tough, the facts line up in Harvey and Mike’s favor, especially when they learn that the victim was actually a graffiti artist whose flight from the scene of his latest crime probably caused the accident. However, when a turn in the victim’s condition dredges up bad memories of the night Mike’s parents died, it sends the associate into an emotional tailspin that could hurt himself and the already vulnerable firm more than he knows.

Next week: The war with Daniel Hardman may be over, but the battle hast left Pearson Hardman vulnerable, and Harvey must protect the firm from a rival whose attack seems as personal as it is professional. Louis and Mike are forced to pay the price for previous actions.

Source: USANetwork

Suits Season 2 Episode 11 “Blind-Sided” Promo Tune...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:26:00 +0100

Suits Season 2 Episode 11 “Blind-Sided” Promo

Tune in to the return of “Suits”, today, 17th January, 2013.

TV Series: "Suits" Season 2 Return Preview

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:42:00 +0100

In January, two days out from the mid-season return of USA Network’s “Suits”, here’s my semi-annual push to get you folks to watch one of the best shows on television. In fact, the USA Network is so confident in their show that, right now, you can watch every single episode of the series leading up to the mid-season finale for free on Hulu. My advice to you, if you haven’t been watching “Suits”, is to take the next two days off and catch up. In addition to Hulu, you can watch them all on USA Network’s website.

“Suits” returns for the final six episodes of season two this week (Thursday, 17th of January, 2013), and things are heating up inside and outside the walls of Pearson Hardman.

The USA Network drama left off with faux law associate Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams) grieving over the death of his beloved Granny by getting into bed with a married woman, Tess (Elisabeth Hower), before paralegal Rachel (Meghan Markle) unexpectedly showed up at the door.

“Mike will have to deal with the consequences of his bad decisions,” Suits creator Aaron Korsh told The Hollywood Reporter.

And the first case back, which strikes Mike particularly hard, won’t help much. But he won’t be the only one dealing with potential game changers.

The firm’s newly minted senior partner Louis (Rick Hoffman) found himself on the outs when he sided with Daniel Hardman (David Costabile) in the civil war against Pearson Hardman heavyweights Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) and Jessica Pearson (Gina Torres). That is quickly addressed within the first two episodes back, with Louis facing a big decision that could change the face of the Manhattan firm, weakened after the internal battle for power, and his future for good. Of course, Harvey - who can hold a grudge - will play prominently into Louis’ decision.

“Like Mike, Louis made questionable choices. After Hardman took over and tried to get Harvey fired, that is beyond the tail for Harvey and Louis is going to deal with the consequences”, Korsh said.

To read the complete interview with Suits creator Aaron Korsh, visit The Hollywood Reporter.

Style: Beyoncé Covers GQ February 2013 Issue

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 15:04:00 +0100

It’s one thing to take home the crown of “hottest woman” for a year. It’s something quite different to stake your claim to an entire century. But such is the case with Beyoncé – having recently been bathed in that distinction when GQ named her the “Queen B” for the 21st century. Having already been privy to her forthcoming cover, images are now available for the entire photoshoot with notable shutterbug Terry Richardson.

Source: GQ

Sports: NFL 2012/13 Playoffs - Divisional Games

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 15:01:39 +0100

AFC

Denver Broncos (1) vs. Baltimore Ravens (4)

A different location than the regular-season meeting won’t change the result.

In Week 15, the Denver Broncos bashed the Ravens, 34-17, in Baltimore. Now hosting the Ravens for the AFC Divisional Round, expect Denver to gain immediate control from the opening kickoff, as the Broncos pass rush and rush defense should stifle Baltimore at the point of attack.

Thereafter, extra possessions are provided to Peyton Manning and Denver’s offense. Despite Baltimore typically being known for defense, the Ravens have yet to find a rhythm in stopping explosive offenses.

The Broncos don’t have a standout ground game to set up the pass, but the threat of the Manning pass will create running lanes. Combine Denver winning the possession battle and getting more quarterback pressure and the Broncos should take care of business at Mile High.

Pick: Broncos

New England Patriots (2) vs. Houston Texans (3)

The stakes are immensely higher than their Week 14 regular-season meeting on Monday night. And the one consistent concern of the Houston Texans remains showing up in big games.

They flopped against the Green Bay Packers and New England Patriots during the regular season in prime-time setups. Also, dropping Week 17 to Indianapolis cost Houston a bye week.

So, should we expect anything different again versus New England and Tom Brady in the playoffs? No.

Brady will eviscerate Houston’s defense, which sets up the Pats’ underrated ground game. Sitting in the driver’s seat throughout, New England dictating the tempo should force Houston to become one-dimensional.

And despite the Texans’ solid offensive balance, it still pales in comparison to that of the Pats.

Pick: Patriots

NFC

Atlanta Falcons (1) vs. Seattle Seahawks (5)

The Atlanta Falcons limp into the postseason afterlosing at home in the season-finale to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Now yes, it’s a division rivalry, but the Falcons have yet to really dominate an inferior team this season—at least within the NFC South.

The Seahawks are also a dangerous team for Atlanta, as they present consistency in a balanced offense. Marshawn Lynch will force the Falcons to stack the box and he still won’t be completely isolated.

Russell Wilson can then utilize play action and some read-option. As a mobile quarterback, Wilson’s ability to make plays out of the pocket and scramble—when needed—will make life difficult for Atlanta. Just like Cam Newton did to the Falcons in Week 14 (running for 116 yards and a touchdown) except Wilson is a better passer.

Also, Matt Ryan and Co. haven’t faced a defense comparable to Seattle since Denver in Week 2.

Possessing a sound pass rush and excellent cover corners, Atlanta will need to run the ball more effectively. Unfortunately, the Falcons struggle in the trenches unless the aerial assault really gets going.

Seattle has been on a tear as of late. However, they almost lost to the St. Louis Rams in a close matchup to end the season in Week 17. That matchup exposed their weaknesses.

Pick: Falcons

San Francisco 49ers (2) vs. Green Bay Packers (3)

The Green Bay Packers are a favorable matchup for the San Francisco 49ers. And a big part of that resides in Green Bay still being a one-dimensional offense.

Without a doubt, the Packers improved on the ground throughout 2012. Unfortunately for Green Bay, San Francisco’s front seven remains that much better.

Any defense possesses a distinct competitive edge when it can stuff the run without blitzing. Given Green Bay’s pass-oriented attack, expect the Niners to play physical press coverage. That alone gives the pass rush a bit more time in applying pressure to Aaron Rodgers.

Lest we forget, Rodgers’ pass protection has been unreliable all season (sacked 51 times in the regular season). So, San Francisco controls the line of scrimmage and forces punt after punt here.

Fielding an offense that relies much on the ground attack, Frank Gore and Co. gradually wear down Green Bay’s defensive front—Packers also allow an average of 4.5 yards per carry.

By shortening the game, winning the field-position battle and pressuring Rodgers, it looks good for the Niners to be the ones advancing in the postseason.

BUT, and that’s my belief/thesis that you cannot win the Super Bowl without an elite QB. Unfortunately for the Niners, Kaepernick isn’t one of them. So, I see the Packers going to Super Bowl (just) because of their advantage at the QB position compared to the other NFC teams.

Pick: Packers

Source: BleacherReport | RotoWorld

Jessica Pearson: You pretend like you don’t care, but you do. You care about the people you...

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 21:16:00 +0100

Jessica Pearson: You pretend like you don’t care, but you do. You care about the people you work with, you care about the people you work for and you care about every one of your clients. But you refuse to let people know…
Harvey Specter: Is there a question?
Jessica Pearson: I just want to know why. No answer? Are you embarrassed?
Harvey Specter: Nope.
Jessica Pearson: Afraid?
Harvey Specter: No.
Jessica Pearson: Then why?
Harvey Specter: Just let it go.
Jessica Pearson: No, you’re under oath.
Harvey Specter: Then hold me in contempt.
Jessica Pearson: For God sakes, what the hell happened to you? What kind of damage was done to you? Caring only makes you…
Harvey Specter: Weak. They think you care, they’ll walk all over you.

Suits 2.07 “Sucker Punch”

Sports: NFL 2012/13 Playoffs - Wild Card Games

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 23:53:00 +0100

Finally! The 2013 NFL playoff bracket is set and we have predictions for each round leading to Super Bowl XLVII.

Will Tom Brady and the New England Patriots make a run for a sixth Super Bowl appearance? Or will Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos represent the AFC? We also can’t forget about the No. 3 seed Houston Texans. With postseason experience from last year, Gary Kubiak’s squad is poised for a Super Bowl run.

As for the NFC, there’s no Eli Manning to worry about. Instead, Robert Griffin III and the Washington Redskins look to make a strong run. Elsewhere, can the Atlanta Falcons win their first playoff game and, ultimately, the NFC title with Matt Ryan? Well, the Dirty Birds have seen their season spoiled before by Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. Factor in the San Francisco 49ers and there’s plenty to watch for this January.

AFC

Houston Texans (3) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (6)

The Houston Texans had the No. 1 seed opportunity and watched it slip away in Week 17. Their consolation prize is the red-hot Cincinnati Bengals, who have rolled off three consecutive victories.

A rematch of last year’s AFC Wild Card Weekend, Houston faces a much better Bengals team this time around. Cincinnati possesses a stronger pass rush and run defense to control the trenches.

It’s a game that features two of the league’s most dangerouspass-rushers in Houston’s J.J. Watt and Cincinnati’s Geno Atkins.

So, Houston can easily match Cincinnati’s defensive prowess, though, because the Texans are just as capable of applying quarterback pressure. Ironically, neither team is extremely dominant in coverage, so expect the passing games to produce.

This victor, however, will come from whoever can generate the better ground game. Just as he was last January, it is on RB Arian Foster to keep Houston balanced this January.

Pick: Texans

Baltimore Ravens (4) vs. Indianapolis Colts (5)

The only major disparity between the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens is postseason experience.
Unfortunately for the Ravens, that’s not a distinct advantage, because, even when healthy, Baltimore has struggled defensively throughout 2012.

On the contrary, Indianapolis fields a solid offense that will move the ball and put up points. QB Andrew Luck can lead downfield and the ground game has been gaining confidence.

So, to counter-balance the Colts, Baltimore must get explosive production from its offense. Considering that Indy is weak against the run and rarely forces turnovers, Joe Flacco and Ray Rice should consistently reach the red zone.

Turnovers, however, will be the ultimate decider.

The Ravens defense is much better than Indy’s at providing its offense with additional possessions. In the end it will be too much for the young Colts to overcome.

Pick: Ravens

NFC

Green Bay Packers (3) vs. Minnesota Vikings (6)

A third contest between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers takes us back to Lambeau Field. The obvious question: Can the Packers stop RB Adrian Peterson?

Well, what other choice does Green Bay have? None.

Despite Christian Ponder putting on a impressive showcase in the Week 17 win over the Packers, he still must prove that he can be consistent on a week-to-week basis. Minnesota remains one of the worst passing offenses in the league, so expect the Pack to hover eight or nine defenders around the box to stop Peterson.

The idea is to force Ponder to beat them in outdoor conditions—something that is more favorable to Aaron Rodgers.

Possessing greater offensive balance, Green Bay should work downfield to stretch Minnesota’ secondary and set up the run. After all, the Packers averaged 4.5 yards per rush on Sunday and nearly won the possession battle.

The Vikings also aren’t overly dominant in one defensive aspect, so Green Bay should try to keep an even approach for ball control to reduce Peterson’s impact.

Pick: Packers

Washington Redskins (4) vs. Seattle Seahawks (5)

The Seattle Seahawks versus the Washington Redskins is one intriguing matchup.

Even with the offenses being rush-oriented, it’s the dynamic approach that is most fascinating.

Seattle is more traditional with Marshawn Lynch, but Russell Wilson can scramble when needed. Washington can be traditional with Alfred Morris, but Robert Griffin III’s mobility can throw any defense for a loop.

Additionally, each quarterback rarely makes mistakes and can spread the field with great consistency.

That comparative now brings us to the contrast of the defenses. The Seahawks are significantly better with their pass rush, coverage and ability to control the line of scrimmage.

Playing with extreme discipline, Seattle won’t be easily fooled by a read-option or any play action. The Redskins, though, are susceptible to the pass and don’t apply nearly as much quarterback pressure.

As the game progresses, the Seahawks’ offensive balance wears down Washington and then wins with defense in the fourth quarter.

Pick: Seahawks

Source: BleacherReport | RotoWorld

Architecture: Doheny Residence, Hollywood Hills

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 12:26:44 +0100

Doheny Residence is a modern residence with a privileged location in the Hollywood Hills, envisioned by Italian architect Luca Colombo. The project is characterized by a high level of openness, even on the side facing the street, where illuminated stairs invite visitors inside. However, the spectacular facade opposite to the street has a lot more to offer. From an impressive swimming pool to a barbecue area and outdoor bar, this is just one of the areas of the project where the inhabitants can enjoy the much talked about comfort and opulence of a Hollywood home. Once inside, the double-height walls and highly modern interiors with tasteful arrangements are likely to make a strong impression also. The Doheny Mansion in Los Angeles is currently available for sale for $10,900,000. For this amount, you get five bedrooms, six bathrooms and a neighborhood with famous residents. Seems like a fair deal?

Source: FRESHOME

Zoe Lawford: There it is, the Specter smile.Harvey Specter: What can I say? It came with the...

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 13:13:34 +0100

Zoe Lawford: There it is, the Specter smile.
Harvey Specter: What can I say? It came with the name.
Zoe Lawford: And you’re never fully dressed without a smile.

Suits 2.07 “Sucker Punch”

Travelling: Safari Retreat, Seychelles

Sun, 23 Dec 2012 03:41:04 +0100

Secluded among luscious tropical greenery, the Seychelles Safari Retreat on North Island promises to become part of your most treasured memories. Here, in a dreamy landscape, where endangered Seychelles fauna and flora are being reintroduced, a heavenly sanctuary composed of 11 handcrafted villas shape the Wilderness Safari experience. Described as “a place of barefoot luxury“, this island and all the exceptional things it has to offer can be considered a rentable paradise. Modern elegance meets wilderness in an unprecedented scenario – the eastern beach was reserved for the luxurious beach villas, each prepared to offer comforting moments to guests and each featuring a second bedroom, perfect for kids. The resort also includes a lounge, library, dining space, health spa and gym, world-class dive center and a rim-flow swimming pool to complete the luxury experience. The western part of the island captures amazing sunsets from the beach bar and restaurant, so your stay here will be a unique explosion of luxury accommodation, natural settings and thoughts of everlasting happiness.