Monday, August 15, 2011

Know More About Mixed Media

         Mixed media is a term used to mention art pieces made up of a number of different elements. Such works have been created since thousands of years ago, but the term is applied particularly to contemporary pieces in which a range of non-traditional materials is utilized. Mixed media was made popular by the Dadaists and Surrealists, to whom the use of non-traditional materials was an aspect of artistic anarchy and freedom. The terms 'composite media', 'intermedia', and 'multimedia' have occasionally been used more or less synonymously with 'mixed media', but they're more often applied to works in which different forms of art rather than different materials are put together, for instance installations with Performance art or perhaps Video art. Multimedia is now, however, used primarily in a different sense, making reference to the publishing of numerous types of info text, images, sound on CD-ROM.
As the growing number of paint mediums have become more readily obtainable in recent decades, the prevalence of artists doing work in mixed media has continued to expand. As per Sean Dye, author of "The Mixed Media Sourcebook," techniques have been around in use for hundreds of years. For its pure variety, mixed media painting is an art form which has many fascinating possibilities.
Gesso, a paint medium, is a canvas primer that encourages the adherence of paint to the surface area, and is frequently applied in 3 layers prior to painting. Given that gesso, meaning "chalk" in Italian, dries really hard, it's usually sanded to a sleek finish with fine grain sandpaper just before painting. It can also be used to create texture. Other texture-building mediums, such as heavy structure gel and gloss heavy gel, are combined with paint to make the paint body, or increase its mass as well as firmness. Of course, watercolours, oil and also acrylic paints, gouache, oil pastels, ink and even craft acrylics that usually include metallic colours can be layered in one painting to create different effects.
Transfers consist of moving a picture from 1 surface to another one, and may be a useful way in making collages or fascinating backgrounds. Several procedures are acrylic, xylene, caulking, as well as heat transfers. Encaustic is a way which involves painting with wax, and like with transfers, could entail numerous layers. American artist Jasper Johns painted layers of encaustics above newspaper clippings, which may be seen through parts of his "Flag."
Mixed media painting techniques are as varied as the media being used in a particular piece of art. A number of fundamental painting methods involving adding of transparent colours referred to as glazing and also applying various kinds of brushwork add more interest, depth and also variety to a mixed media painting. A particular fascinating technique is known as wax resist, and involves basically rubbing a white wax crayon over a surface just before painting. The wax-coated areas resist paint or any other medium, such as ink, that is applied to the painting. Make use of this technique to produce highlights in some areas of the image. There are lots of techniques as well as approaches to mixed media painting. Look in galleries and art and design magazines for new ideas for additional info on putting the various methods to use. And finally, do not be reluctant to try something new, make some mistakes, and enjoy every minute of it.
Clara Berta is one of the best mixed media artists in the world. She's popular for her excellent mixed media art that uncovers a world of imagination. She definitely doesn't disappoint!

Sunday, August 14, 2011

$300 Earthbag House

Learn And Compare Antique Book Prices



         Ever wonder why of all vintage items, antique book prices may be one of the most challenging to evaluate? It is vital that books are not just old in order for it to be classified with significant value; it has to be at least the first edition to be published, has to be signed by the author, and possibly, has to have a remarkable layout. Getting rare and antique books would test collector's skill and knowledge because there are a lot of details to look into to avoid acquiring a book which has a poor value.
There is always a need to take into consideration the condition of the book before selling or buying it; in order to get the ones with the highest value, the collector needs to look for books that are clean, has crisp pages, and if achievable, the one closest in its original form. Antique book prices may not be as high as expected if there are scribbles on the pages or the pages are dirty and have been ripped off. If you have a collection of old books or you intend to make this your concentration area for antique hunting, might as well do some research to gather facts about values. This will help you to obtain a price that you can ask for in the area you wish to sell the book or a price that you can afford in places like antique stores or thrift shops.
You can also take another step in understanding antique book prices and that is to ask the help of an antique appraiser who specializes on the values of rare books; you can be oriented about the comparison of different costs once you are able to show your book/books to the appraiser in person. No one wants his or her collection of old books to go to waste and it is crucial that full attention is permanently given in preserving the books' condition because any form of damage would for sure decrease the value of the book. Keep your books in an area with a stable room temperature; ideally not too hot or too humid, make sure to handle books properly and have a table ready specifically if the books being carried are too heavy and be mindful to always clean the shelves to keep books from getting dust and dirt.
Just like other antique pieces, rare antique books are treasures in the eyes of the collector. It is very delicate and requires constant care because by doing so, there is a guarantee that the book will not lose its value and it will continue to appraise. Antique book prices are indeed within your grasp because information sources are available within your location or by browsing the internet. This is a great investment whether you already have antique books or just starting to collect because you can achieve a great deal of profit gained from antique book prices if you will decide to sell it and also gain self-fulfilment because once you are equipped with the right knowledge to identify rare books, you will surely have an exceptional collection.
Brian is an antiques publisher. For more information on antique book prices, visit http://www.antiquinginformation.info/

The Story of Solitaire

        Since the mid 18th century, mankind had a simple answer whenever he was alone with nothing to do, Solitaire. It is perfect for wasting idle time. It's engaging. It's fun. It's easy. And when things get frustrating, cheating yourself is a-okay.
Solitaire has been so popular that it has followed us into the digital age. Almost every computer has Windows installed and one of the default games since the beginning was solitaire. Real life plating cards have been replaced with digital cards and it's still a fine game. Our love for solitaire is something that non-PC users can understand.
Like every great and grand thing, no one is sure how the card game was created. Like astronomy and the creation of fire, the true origins of solitaire are lost to the mists of time. There are no records that point to the truth. There are only a few clues.
Enough hints are left in history to suppose that solitaire originated in Northern Europe, like Scandinavia or the Baltic. These are very cold regions that suffer from winters where the sun barely appears during the "day". Somehow, this makes it a very apt birthplace for the game. Many theorize that it was originally a form of fortunetelling. This makes a certain sense. It shows us a bleak picture of a lonely person in cottage idling away time asking, When will the sun come back? It's really cold.
Regardless of its origins, solitaire spread managed to spread. It found its way to France in the early 19th century. At that time, France was a trendsetter. It ha gotten rid of its monarchy and then brought it back. It also popularized the metric system. France was very cool then and the other European Nations liked to follow France's lead because they invaded the countries that didn't and their women were (and still are) hot.
Famous people are said to have played solitaire, just like you and me. In his exile, Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France and Scourge of Europe, played solitaire. What else were you supposed to do on an obscure island?
In other countries, solitaire is known as patience. Napoleon knew it by that name. Apart from a different name, there are different variations to the game. Many of these solitaire-likes are named after Napoleon or the island of his exile, like Napoleon's Square, Napoleon at St. Helena, etc.
Today, solitaire is ubiquitous in computer systems everywhere. Few people are left in the world that doesn't know how to play solitaire. Too bad, they can't play together.
Jonathan Russell is an artist and blogger that has been writing articles on many different topics for the last 2 years. You can find him contributing articles at Beginning Quilting Now a website dedicated to helping those who are beginning quilting.

Back to School Advice!



          As the new school year approaches there are some parents who will be sad to see the summer fun end and others who are counting the sleeps until everything gets back into a routine. Preparing your child for the re-entry into school is important and there are several things that you, as the parent, can do to help things get off on the best foot:
  1. Get the proper school supplies - Now you don't have to buy everything new but you do need to ensure that your child has what the teacher recommends. Try having a scavenger hunt and challenge participants to find as many items as possible on the list. Make sure you have the child's name marked on all the items.
  2. Impress on the child that this is their "job" - Even though there are lots of fun activities and friends at the school, there are also lessons to be learned. Homework should be taken seriously and it is up to the child to do their best at the tasks before them.
  3. Become an active school supporter - Get to know the school personnel so that you can help to solve any problems that might arise before they are out of control. Make a commitment to attend Parent-Teacher interviews and read the school newsletters.
  4. Ensure that the child attends every day and is on time - It is not okay to allow children to stay home because they don't feel like going to school, are afraid of a bully or don't like the field trip that is planned. There are enough holidays during the year that you shouldn't be taking them out of school for skiing, travel or other personal reasons either.
  5. Promote healthy practices - Make sure that your child has had good sleep and proper nutrition so that they are best prepared to learn. Letting them stay up late on a school night and filling them up with junk food and pop will not do it!
  6. Remember to encourage achievement and acknowledge progress without building stress with unrealistic expectations. The goal is for you child to do his/her best which is not necessarily being "the" best.
One of the very best things you can do for your child is to be a good example. If you disrespect the school or your co-workers, call in sick when you really just want a day off, or complain all the time about what you "have to do", your child will likely begin modelling this in their own situation.
On the other hand, when you are thankful to have a job, speak positively about the work setting and practice healthy self-care, you will be an inspiration for the child who will likely do the same things!
And now I would like to invite you to claim your Free Instant Access to a complimentary list of 10 Steps to Making Your Life an Adventure when you visit http://www.lindahancock.com/
From Dr. Linda Hancock, Registered Psychologist and Registered Social Worker

Penny Auction Strategies - What You Should Know

        There are a ton of legit penny auction sites on the internet today. The key is having a strategy in place to win and make the most of your buying experience.
When it comes to penny auction strategies there are as many as there are pennies in the world. A lot of people use penny auction sites to pay a lot less than retail. These sites are a great way to save money if you can find the strategy that works for you!
No matter who you ask on a penny auction site what there strategy is you will get a different answer. What it all boils down to really is taking bits and pieces of some of the tried and true strategies and molding them into something that works for you.
Some Choices
There are some tried and true strategies out there. In some cases they have funny nicknames to describe the tactic. Regardless of the name these ideas really do seem to work for most people.
Flight or Fight
In some cases it is wiser as a strategy to take the flight reaction! In this strategy it is not used to win more but instead to lose less. When you are faced with a high roller that has an incredible amount of money to lose you are best to duck out of the game. How do you know who the high rollers are? Look for the person that is bidding, bidding and bidding some more. The high roller is the guy that loses a lot of money just to win! That guy that you know has a huge bank roll. Do yourself a favor and just avoid the situation.
Last Minute Annie
This strategy is the most popular you wait until the final few minutes before you join the battle. This works sometimes but in many cases you are coming on board after the price has been driven up. A lot o people feel like winning at all costs is still a good win. It is irrational to think that way. You want to save money not pay above retail!
On the up side of last minute Annie you may show up when everyone else is out of money and wind up winning.
Drag Along Sam
This strategy demands that you drag things out as long as you can. It also demands that you sit by the computer during the battle. The idea here is that you are in control of the auction and that you are going to drag it on long enough to where everyone else is warn out. You bid the lowest possible bid that you can each and every time and eventually your will be the last bidder standing.
No matter which strategy you try you will have to tweak it to fit your own personal style for it to be effective.
Click here to learn more by reading the Bigdeal Review and the Quibids Review.

Why Do I Need Website Design?

          If you are a business that requires an online presence, you will have to have some sort of website and it will need designing so that it looks professional. The design involves layout, colour selection, navigation and more.
You could try to design your own website but this isn't advisable because your site needs to compete with all the others on the web and so it has to look good. Obviously if you are competent in this area then you could undertake your own web design.
Websites are very similar to physical shops in some ways because they are an important way to convince people to come to you. People see a shop window and if it looks appealing they go in. A website is the same. If it doesn't look good it can put people off. By looking good, this doesn't just mean aesthetics but also the layout. No one likes trying to work out where things are. If it isn't obvious they will go somewhere else. You only have a few seconds to make a good impression so don't waste the opportunity.
A web designer should know what makes a good impression and be skilled in creating a site that reflects your brand identity. They should also be proficient in making the site convert site visitors to actual customers by using methods such as a 'call to action' and making sure your contact details are prominent. They should also consider your future needs and design a site that doesn't limit you.
Don't cut corners with design because you will regret it. A saving now will equate to a loss in the long run. Obviously shop around but make sure that any company you deal with is professional and can create the standard of site that you need. Also ensure that they will be designing your site to be in compliance with all relevant laws.
Some businesses will need their site to allow people to purchase products. If this is the case it will need an ecommerce section which needs a way of listing products, a shopping basket to allow people to request certain items and a secure payment system to allow the transaction. An ecommerce system that you can update yourself is probably preferable so that you can update products and prices as soon as they are required and you save money by not having to pay an outside company to do this. This flexibility is called CMS (content managed system) and it applies to all website content, not just shops.
Once you have a site you can't expect people to just find it. It will need some sort of promotion and a mixture of on and offline promotion is a good idea. Considering most people find websites by using a search engine, search engine optimisation is a good way of marketing your site. Social media is also important so look at setting up Twitter and Facebook accounts and learning how to use them for business.
If your business needs an online presence, make sure that you get some great web design and marketing and you will see the customers come flooding in.
By Rebecca G Wishford.
If you are looking for effective and beautiful web design, try Giant Peach Web Design Wiltshire. They offer web design in Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

The Benefits of Shopping at Thrift Stores

           If you want to get the most for your money and find unique, stylish items, look no further than a thrift shop near you. Many times you will be able to find great deals on hard to find items and have so much fun browsing their selections. See for yourself and check out the many benefits to shopping at thrift stores.
Probably one of the reasons these stores are so popular are the amazing deals they have. At many shops you will be able to find unbelievably low price tags on clothing, shoes, books, movie, appliances, and more. The trick to finding an outfit that looks like a million bucks but costs substantially less is searching through store racks for high quality merchandise at low, low prices. Because, thrift shops carry items that have been donated, you can often times buy brand named items, designer clothes, and well made items for a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere.
Another awesome feature of these stores is the large selection of merchandise they carry. Some of the best shops out there have sections for clothing (often men's, women's, and children's), books, appliances and dishes, furniture, linens and decorative items, toys, accessories, and more. You can find almost anything at a thrift store, and that makes shopping at one a wonderful experience. And don't forget that these stores are constantly receiving new merchandise, so there are always new and exciting things to find. If you come across something great, don't pass up the opportunity to snatch it up, because it may not be there the next day.
A nice little side benefit to shopping at thrift store is knowing that many times the money goes to good causes. Obviously this depends on which thrift stores you like to shop at, but many of the popular stores out there, like Salvation Army, Goodwill and many more, are associated with charities that help make a real difference in your communities. You can even donate items from around your house or closet to a thrift store for a tax deductible donation. This is another great way to lend a helping hand, because you know the profits go to charitable organizations and your old teddy bear or jean jacket will get a loving new home!
Thrift stores are great places to find hidden treasure. You will find some of the most surprising, creative, and beautiful items among the store shelves and racks. From vintage jewelry to the perfect leather motorcycle jacket, from an amazing ornate candelabra to a cross-stitch of your favorite sports team, thrift stores carry some of the most unique and interesting pieces. Whether you want to find a cute, one of a kind gift for someone or you are looking for some fun home decorating tips, check out your local shops to get your creative juices flowing.
Megan Perry is a writer who enjoys sharing her experiences, knowledge, and advice on a number of different subjects. For more information about thrift stores, Frugal Finance Blog offers readers tips for shopping at thrift stores.

Egyptian Cotton Sheets Are Super Soft But Bamboo Sheets Might Be Softer And Greener

Expert Author Adrian Desbarats

          Known for its incredible softness and durability, bedding made from Egyptian cotton is one of the best choices for those seeking a comfortable sleep. But in recent years, another fabric has come on the scene to challenge for this title, specifically, viscose bamboo sheets. Bamboo bedding offers a level of softness and durability which arguably rivals that of Egyptian cotton. So which should you choose? We're here to help you decide which bedding option reigns supreme.
As the traditional go-to luxury bedding fabric of choice, Egyptian cotton has a reputation to uphold. It is an extremely comfortable material for use in the making of sheets and bed linens. It is incredibly comfortable, due largely to the high thread count and the softness of cotton fibers. And cotton is a natural fiber which makes it preferable to synthetics like polyester, nylon and acrylic. Cotton is naturally resilient and gentle to the skin.
But bamboo bedding comes with a whole host of benefits that are hard to ignore. First, bamboo sheets are hypoallergenic and can be processed to create extremely soft bedding. They are also incredibly breathable and moisture-absorbing, which makes them ideal for humid, warm environments. They wick moisture away from your skin as you sleep which helps to regulate your temperature so that you rest soundly.
Not only are bamboo sheets very soft and luxurious for sleeping in, they're also supremely sustainable. Bamboo is a rapidly-renewable fiber that grows incredibly fast, and creates much more fiber per acre of land used when compared to cotton. Plus, bamboo does not have to be grown using pesticides and other agricultural chemicals. Cotton, on the other hand, is the most pesticide-intensive crop on the planet, making it incredibly toxic for the environment and for those sleeping in the finished cotton sheets.
So what option should you choose? Certainly the feel of the fabric should be one of the most important factors when selecting bedding for your home. Go to a linens store and touch them both to determine which feels better for your particular skin. You'll likely find them incredibly similar to the touch, making bamboo sheets the best choice if you're seeking out greener bedding. Regardless of which option you choose, look for organic fibers in both bamboo sheets and those made from Egyptian cotton to avoid the agricultural chemicals used to grow the fibers.
But you may not have to choose! Manufacturers are now creating blends of Egyptian cotton and bamboo fibers to create organic bedding that's the best of all worlds. This cotton-bamboo blend technique results in bedding that is both breathable and moisture-tolerant, but also soft and extremely comfortable. And since bamboo and organic cotton are both preferable to conventional cotton (Egyptian or otherwise), you can rest assured that your purchasing choice is good for the environment, too. So why choose when you can have your sleep and rest easy, too?
Fashion & Earth provides organic clothes, organic mattress brands and more at affordable prices. With their hassle free return policy and, popular Rewards Program you really have nothing to lose! Experience the feeling of wearing (and sleeping) organic bedding and clothing.

Important Tips To Know About Glow Light Sticks

         If you are planning to start a business selling any glow light sticks or just want to own some, you will need to take into consideration these important tips before making the purchase.
How Long Can You Keep Them?
You know how important it is to check the expiry date on food items before you buy them? Well, this is the same scenario. Glow in the dark sticks are not going to last forever if you do not use them. They have a shelf life of around 18 months depending on the storage condition. If you are planning to purchase a few boxes of these glow light sticks, it is best to keep them in a cool dry place. Heat and humidity will shorten the lifespan of these sticks although it will make them glow brighter. But normally, people prefer to enjoy these sticks if they are able to glow longer. If you are unsure on how the product will be packaged, best to check with the seller as some may come individually wrapped or bulk wrapped. They could easily last longer if they come in foil packaging.
Glow Duration
When planning to buy any glow in he dark sticks, always find out from the seller about the glow duration. You do not want to buy any only to find out that they are able to glow for a few hours. Good quality ones are able to glow up to 18 hours. So if you are planning a glow party, your guests will still be able to enjoy those sticks until the following morning. But remember, how long these glow light sticks will glow also depends on the room temperature once they are activated. And these sticks can't be 'turned off' once they are activated as the chemical process will continue until completion when the stick no longer glows.
What Do They Come With?
Depending on the type, size and length of the glow in the dark sticks, it is always best to check with the seller on what are the other items they may come with. Certain sellers may even throw in free lanyards so that these sticks can be worn around the neck or allow you to tie around your bag. If you are planning to purchase in bulk, you could contact the seller to check whether they are willing to waive the shipping fees for you. That will allow you to save some money. Also check to see if they will come in individually wrapped packages if you are planning to give them out as gifts for special occasions.
Summary
These are basically a short rundown on some of the important tips that one needs to know about glow light sticks before purchasing them. Once you have purchased the good quality ones, you will definitely have an enjoyable time with them.
Amelia Warmheart is an avid traveler but a lousy cook. When not traveling or recovering from jet lag, she shares some important tips that buyers need to know about glow light sticks that will help them decide before making the purchase. This includes how long you can keep these glow in the dark sticks along with the glow duration and what they come with.

Is Soy Milk Good for You?

Expert Author Ben Owen

        Soy milk has been used by Asian countries like China, Japan, Korea and Malaysia for centuries already to make their food. The first proof was seen in China ages ago wherein it was even incised on a stone. Until this very moment, our Asian neighbors continue to use it to make their staple food, particularly the tofu and other cuisines. It has even reached our shores already and many arguments have been raised to prove whether or not soya milk is good for you. Knowing the pros and cons of soya milk will help us answer that question.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Drinking Soy Milk
Since soy milk is derived from heating and grinding the soy beans with water, it is considered as a sterilized product. Therefore soya milk is good for you. Not only that, since it is also a vegetable, it is rich in fiber that helps us during our bowel movement and prevents constipation. Another good thing about the soya milk is that it contains a chemical, the isoflavones, which is similar to that of estrogen that helps fight back or prevent bacteria that causes cancer, heart problems, osteoporosis and other deadly diseases. Let us also not forget that this milk is very much recommended for people with lactose intolerance as they can not drink a regular cow's milk without getting an upset stomach. Soy milk has 0.0 lactose content making it safe for them to drink. Another advantage of this nutritious mixture is that its nutritional content is higher compared to the regular one making it more nutritious and fitting for consumption.
One of the major downfalls of soya milk is that its calcium contents falls 25% lower compared to the regular cow's milk. Manufacturers need to add more calcium into their products in order for it to compete with its grandest rival. Not only that, it can no longer be called natural as other ingredients may also be added to it for taste and other nutritional benefits. Another problem with soya milk is that it takes a long time to prepare. The soy beans need to be soaked in water for long hours before it can be used. The traditional way of preparation is also messy and need proper knowledge. If the soya milk mixture is not heated properly, it can cause the pancreas to hypersecrete which can lead to various health problems. If this is the case, we can't surely say that, soy milk is good for you.
In providing answer to the above question "is soy milk good for you" I think that soya milk is very beneficial for some people, like those with lactose intolerance. They cannot drink milk so they have to look for ways to somehow enjoy the taste and benefit of it. And I think that one way of doing it is by drinking the soya milk product. While for those who still doubt the nutritional benefits of the product, I think it's better if we just respect each other's opinion and let those people who want to drink the mixture, drink it. Whatever happens to them that will be purely due to their belief that soy milk is good for them.
After reading this article " is soy milk good for you ", you should be able to decide if you want to add soy into your diet. Now, in order to save some money, you can consider of making soy milk at home as well.

Best Rated Laptops for Gamers

Expert Author Emanuel Bucsa

        Step inside your gaming persona for a bit and think about this: what do you require out of a laptop designed for gaming? Is it the internal hardware? Is it the external design? Is it the added features and functionality it provides?
On the design part, lots of companies produce laptops with key design characteristics that inspire you to think about extreme things.
Alienware is such a company and their gaming laptop product line is designed to look more like really fast planes, rather than laptops. They also include illuminated keyboards with their laptops to make the design stand out from the crowd even more.
ASUS and Toshiba use the same strategy and include sleek, almost aerodynamic, design and highlights in their gaming laptops product line.
Some companies go that extra mile and include a lot of added connectivity options to their laptops so the average gamer isn't constrained anymore to just playing games, but now has the option of connecting to the internet and keeping in touch with gamers alike.
Having accomplished great external designs, the real battle starts behind the scenes, under the laptop case, on the component level. There are no two laptops alike, and this is far truer in the case of gaming laptops, since every company focuses on key aspects while trying to keep their price requirements at bay so more gamers can afford the extra spec.
So what do you demand from your gaming laptop? Would you like to crank up the visual quality settings to ultra-high? Then you'll need to afford the extra buck, since gaming laptops which can do that usually come equipped with more than one graphics card and this type of configuration costs quite a lot.
How about multitasking? Do you like to do more things at once? Then invest in a laptop with a powerful multi-core processor and plenty of RAM installed. Think quad-core here with about 4-6GB of RAM installed.
If you'd like a laptop that can do everything, then the same rules apply, since the processor and RAM will handle the tasks, while the graphics card(s) will ensure everything will be represented as it should be, with every pixel in its place.
Aside from the design aspects and the extreme internal configuration, the visual side of the equation must be taken into account. The screen size will determine how well you see your opponents on the battlefield. Look for screens equal or larger than 15.4 inches, since these are perfect for gaming, and don't settle for anything less.
Visit Best Laptops For Gamers for some concrete examples.

Everyday Entertainment and Education for Kids

Expert Author John M Abernathy

          Entertaining kids isn't the hardest thing to do, but it certainly isn't the easiest either. You can't just plop them in front of the television every time they're bored without risking a woefully contagious mental atrophy that can plague them for the rest of their natural life. At the same time, it can be draining and, frankly, intimidating to satisfy the curiosities, the logical probing, the constant "why? Why? Why?" that can accompany every game and lesson. So, how do you maintain your child's curiosities and your sanity at the same time without planting them like a vegetable on the couch? With creative entertainment.
My friends in education have a term, "Teachable Moments" for those everyday events and situations that can somehow be adapted into learning opportunities. What shape is that ball you just drew? Round. How many crayons did you use to draw it? Ninety. Where did you get so many crayons? The toy store. Why did daddy buy you ninety crayons at the toy store? Because I have discovered a direct correlation between my volume in a public place and the amount of things I leave the place in possession of.
Of course, results may vary with your own child, but I believe that with only a minor adjustment this same method can be applied to entertainment as well as education. Here are two games you may find keep your little one entertained, your bank statement free of extraordinary crayon purchases, and your own sanity well in check. You need little more than a pen, some paper, and a little planning to play either.
The Scavenger Walk
This game has the added benefit of getting both you and your child out for a little exercise which, if you're like me, you need more than most toddlers anyway. It's likely that you already have a route you like to follow out on walks, but if you don't there are lots of options. Consider a path around a nearby park, safe streets winding through your own neighborhood, or even a power-walk around the mall. Before you go, make a list of some landmarks recognizable to someone your child's age and put general descriptions of them in a short list. The game then becomes for your child to find something while on the walk that matches each description on the list.
Something orange and soft? Maybe it's those flowers or the cat hiding in them!
Something red with white letters? A Stop sign! Bonus points: what does the sign say?
Something gray and square? The neighbor's mailbox! Or their car! Or the cinder blocks it's resting on in their front yard that the neighborhood association won't do anything about!
Thrifty Shopper Math
This game probably seems a little more like learning, so it might be best to disguise it as a chance to act like an adult, which kids love. Just say, "Hey sweetie, will you help mommy go buy groceries? I need you to hold this list for me." This list is a near-duplicate of your own shopping list, simplified a little for the sake of your eager helper. As you grab the items ask your child to mark the cost of each item beside the name (both of which, again, are probably best to simplify). In this manner your young assistant will have the opportunity to associate a word with an item as well as add up the total amount of the list. This is a great exercise to eat up time as you are waiting in the checkout queue behind that dude with sixty cans of cat food in the ten items or less lane.
How much was the soup? One dollar. How many cans did we get? Four. So all the soup cost how much? Four dollars! And how much were daddy's new socks? One dollar. And how much was your ice cream bar for helping with the shopping? One dollar.
For an added challenge, consider shopping somewhere other than the Dollar Store, budget permitting. Regardless of where you shop (or walk for that matter), these games are both easy to prepare and full of great benefits. Education aside, it's time spend bonding, exercising, and subtly teaching responsibility. And if you're lucky, your kid will get something out of it as well.
John Abernathy has a lifetime of artistic involvement which led to a degree in film & television production. He owned his own commercial production company and worked on several independent feature-length films before he co-authored the novel "A Question of Character" with his father, which led to book signing tours, speaking engagements, and radio appearances. Most recently he has combined his artistic and literary skills and is producing illustrated children's books through Starbound Storybooks.
To learn more please check out: http://www.starboundstorybooks.com/

Garden Sheds for Small, Medium and Large Storage Options

          There an extensive range of garden sheds on the market and there are also a range of construction options which may affect the durability of the sheds. This in turn affects the decision you make on choosing the right garden sheds for your garden storage. For example storing the garden broom and children's garden toys is very much different to storing your bicycles or even motorbikes. Each garden storage item requires a different level of construction and size so it is simple and reliable to store in your chosen garden shed.
Garden Storage for your smaller garden items
Smaller garden items may include spades, shovels, garden gloves, watering cans and children's toys. There are different garden storage options for these with the most obvious being any small shed. Generally overlap sheds are suitable for storing these items and equipment as they do not weigh too much and do not need the extra support like larger storage items. You are also able to purchase a smaller shed depending on the number of children's toys!!!!! We know how much of a collection they can create!! A 4 x 4 shed would be a suitable option and you can purchase these cost effectively on the web. There are also metal garden sheds to store all your garden equipment which can be just as effective as wooden sheds. It is simply a preference as to which designs you prefer. There is a long running debate with metal sheds and wooden sheds. The main difference between these is that metal sheds do not come with a floor and can be placed straight on to a base although they do not need seasonal maintenance like wooden sheds do. It is argued that wooden sheds are most popular but metal sheds have been increasing in popularity in recent times. There are other storage sheds which include garden storage chests which can be bought in both wooden and plastic material. There are also drawers for smaller items such as tools if you are looking for specific storage and cabinets that are ideal for offices. Plastic garden sheds can be utilised both indoors and outdoors like the metal rollers which are unique and ideal storage space savers.
Garden sheds able to store your medium garden items
I would class medium garden items and equipment as bicycles, lawn mowers, compost bins and other similar sized pieces of garden equipment. With these items there is a larger importance in the framework and all round strength and stability of the shed. It is important to ensure that the shed will be able to hold the weight of these items especially with floor being one of the main concerns. Whereas an overlap garden shed would have suited storing smaller garden items and equipment a tongue and groove or shiplap cladding is more likely to fit the bill. Although tongue and groove and shiplap claddings are more expensive it is worthwhile investing in these as they are more likely to increase the longevity of your garden shed. There are specific bike sheds and mower sheds which are specifically suited to storing these garden items. Your best options after these if you are maybe looking to store more items so need larger sized sheds would be to view the range of metal and wooden options within the market. As I said in a previous paragraph the differences in these will make your choice as to which one you prefer.
Garden sheds able to store large garden items and equipment.
Larger garden items include motorbikes and if you're lucky enough other large mortised vehicles, maybe you have a quad bike. For these items and equipment it is imperative that the shed you buy is not only strong but highly secure. A recommendation for this would be shiplap or even a Baltic pine and purchasing a small log cabin storage area. Log Cabin pine starts at 28mm thick and is exceptionally robust. The perfect answer to storing large items and equipment like a motorbike. Garden sheds and storage raise many questions but there is always an answer so it is simply searching to find the right shed that suits you and what you are looking to store.
The author is interested in anything garden related!!

Educational Toys and Games - Their Role in a Child's Development

Expert Author Karen Z Smith

          For many years now child psychologists and educational specialists have known the value and importance of play in a child's emotional and educational development.
As time goes on, we are refining the process considerably. It is now the case that educational toys and games can be designed and manufactured to cater for very specific needs for young children.
Targeting specific aspects of educational growth, these toys can raise awareness of a child's surroundings, educate child in basic numeracy and literacy and even encourage an emotional understanding of the world in which they live.
As a parent myself, I decided to look into the possibilities of assisting my child's natural growth and education in her preschool years. Acknowledging the importance of play as a fun activity that should not be too regimented, and allowing my daughter to enjoy using her imagination, I set about looking for a range of toys and games suitable for preschool children.
At the time the government of the United Kingdom had a system known as Early Years Foundation Stage or EYFS for short. The idea behind this was to promote positive learning through structured play. Allowing a parent's to provide a child with the correct toys and learning experience and to focus on any particular areas of need.
So what areas in particular can we expect to see improvement?
Before a child is able to grasp and manipulate objects themselves it is important to work on recognition and cognitive skills. Colorful toys and books that are held by the parent or carer are the first group to explore.
Interaction between the carer and child are vital to keep the youngster engaged in the process. You will find at some stage the child will "reach out" to grab the item in question - and probably drop it a few times in the process. Bearing in mind the sorts of toys and activities used at this stage need to be very child friendly (i.e no sharp edges, not to heavy, not fit in the child's mouth etc) there are any number of factors that make a toy or activity engaging and worthwhile. After safety, it's safe to assume that colour and movement rank very highly.
Once some level of motor skills are developed it's time to improve the ability of your child to handle and manipulate objects. Blocks, fabric books and easy to solve puzzles rank highly. Not forgetting the all important "activity centre". Motor skills can improve at an astonishing rate given the right environment. It's not uncommon for a child to go from "unable to grasp simple objects" to "able to manipulate and solve simple block puzzles" in a matter of days. A very rewarding time for parents.
From this stage there are many other more specific areas that can be explored. The most obvious being simple numeracy and literacy "one, two, three" or "D-O-G is dog" It is important not to expect the child to grasp this in a way that is meaningful in adult terms, but rest assured the information structure and associations are being built none-the-less.
What are the exact toys and games a parent or carer should use?
It is a delicate line to follow. Educational toys and games have been criticised in the past four not being as fun as some of the more hedonistic activities available to children. But as we progress, this is becoming less of an issue as modern toys, games, and puzzles for children no longer have this stigma attached to them. Those that develop these activities have learned just what sort of interaction a child needs to have to maintain long-term interest in any particular activity or form of play.
Luckily, we live in a time where there is increasing awareness of the role that structured play can play in a child's development. The next step will be to see some level of consistency in terms of both the toys and games themselves, and the advice and resources given to parents.
While there is a great deal of crossover in the functionality of these products, it is possible for a concerned parent to focus on such specific growth areas as awareness, emotional well-being, tactile ability, preschool science, basic numeracy and literacy as well as the very important aspects of sharing and acknowledging others with group play.
It should go without saying that all the educational play products available for preschool children in the United Kingdom are first rigorously tested for safety and durability. Parents can now rest assured that when buying from within the UK, the activities and toys they buy for their child will conform to the most stringent safety standards.
I have now managed to bring together a modest collection of educational toys and games for my daughter, and it gives me as much pleasure as it gives her to see the enjoyment she gets from playing with these toys. It's a far cry from 20 years ago when educational products for preschool children failed in so many aspects to engage the child.
Educational toys and games is a great site for ideas. It offers a free educational guide for young children

Ways To Prevent Obesity For You And Your Family


Expert Author D Heape

         Prevention is the primary way to almost any health related issues. Identifying the signs or symptoms of the issue before it actually becomes an issue is prevention. There are easy ways to diagnose if your health is declining. Here are some of the ways to prevent obesity.
1. One of the easy and familiar ways to prevent obesity is to be active in your lifestyle. Easy activities, like using the stairs, and walking to the store, can help enormously.
2. A lot of people also enjoy going to the gym a couple of times a week. Local health club memberships can be an extraordinary way to stay active and get together with other healthy-minded people.
3. The FDA suggests that the normal person consume 2,000 calories per day in foods like vegetables, fruits, dairy, breads, and meats. Conforming your diet to meet these guidelines are the most compelling way to prevent obesity.
4. You should weigh yourself one time a week to oversee your health. If you see that you are starting to gain weight, you should take suitable actions to lose that weight fast. Buying in a scale for your home is really suggested.
5. Many times people will confuse dehydration for hunger signs to the body. The FDA suggests drinking at least eight to 10 glasses of water on the average per day. Water purifies and detoxes all the contamination in your body.
6. See your doctor to get a physical once a year. Doctors recommend that you get a physical on a yearly basis to prevent any health issues. By catching early issues, your doctor can treat you in a suitable way.
7. Keep junk food away from the home. The temptation of junk food can sometimes be very overwhelming, and you may cave in to the attraction. So stay smart and don't buy any!
8. Studies show that those who are thin by nature only eat when they're hungry. Eating only when your body tells you to eat can be a good way to prevent obesity.
All of these are immense ways to prevent obesity, always keep your doctor informed if you are starting to show any signs of obesity, and never go all day without eating. Do not weigh yourself several times a day, because your body weight will fluctuate during the course of the day. I hope this information was useful to people who need it.
I know how it feels to be picked on and laughed at, because I was overweight growing up. Weight Loss is a struggle that can be achieved with a good mind, determination, and knowledge. I have lost 97 pounds and still achieving results with this diet program. If this diet plan is not right for you please find one that is! You will look and feel so much better. Visit-> Ways To Prevent Obesity


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6482784

Tips to Stopping Childhood Obesity

Expert Author Derek J Smith

      Childhood obesity has gone to record heights in the past 20 years due to an increase in unhealthy foods and decrease in physical activity among today's youth. Many long term physical and emotional issues go hand in hand with childhood obesity. It is very important for parents to work with their children on developing healthy habits to help stop obesity. Below are 5 important tips to stop childhood obesity.
Breakfast: Breakfast is essential for the body as it awakens the body from its low metabolism sleep state. Children need breakfast to not only have a healthy body, but also a healthy mind. Having a healthy nutritious breakfast is the key to preventing obesity as kids will often snack on sugary foods if they don't eat breakfast. A well rounded meal of skim milk, oatmeal and a piece of fruit will start your child off to a healthy day.
Fiber: Another essential way to prevent weight problems would be to incorporate fiber to their diet. Fiber is required to make sure the digestive tract functions correctly. You will find a multitude of both fruits and veggies that provide a great resource of fiber that the child will eat. Items like beans in addition to whole grain products are wonderful sources of fiber. Fiber stabilizes the sugar in the blood and also helps the body get rid of waste.
Complex Carbohydrates: Do not try a low or no carbohydrate diet with your child. Growing bodies need carbohydrates, but they must be complex carbohydrates. Whole grain breads, oatmeal and pastas should be a staple in the diet. Avoid any type of white bread or rice as this is a major source of sugar which promotes fat.
Fruits and Vegetables: You need to make sure that your child will get a minimum of 5 portions of fruits in addition to veggies within their diet. You need to provide a couple of different kinds so they aren't getting fed up with eating exactly the same factor. Make certain you will find some which are always chopped and able to eat. Making fruits available as snacks, instead of sugary products, will help the whole family eat better.
Fluids: Among the greatest mistakes that some parents make would be to give the youngster soda. Soda is yet another reason of weight problems. Soda provides nothing but problems for children trying to lose weight, because it tastes great and is horrible for the child. Keep soda out of the house or switch to no sugar soda.
Derek J Smith is an entrepreneur and author who focuses on weight loss, nutrition and overall health improvement. Do you suffer from obesity, high cholesterol or overall tiredness? Learn about what causes high cholesterol and improve your health at http://www.cholesterolgoodfoods.net/

How to Build Muscle Tone - 4 Steps to Shaping Up Your Body Today


        Do you want to know how to build muscle tone? The good news is you do not need to be a genius to figure this out. You just need to follow a good plan of action. Read further to learn the tips and tricks to making this happen for yourself. It is recommended that you put the following step by step routine into motion and allow the proper time to see results.
Step 1: Increase Repetitions
You will need to have a good workout routine to really see any results. This should be composed of compound exercises. These are moves you can do to workout several muscle groups at once. These would include deadlifts, bench press, and squats.
These routines allow you to save serious time and energy in the gym. You can start doing them as soon as today. You will need to do 10 to 12 repetitions each time you perform one of these exercises. This will help you trim down your body the right way.
Step 2: Decrease The Amount You Lift
The goal of most weightlifters is to lift more and more. This will not be your goal when your focus is to shape up. You will want to pick a weight level that you can lift at least ten to twelve times before needing a break. You do not want to try to lift the biggest weight you can, because this will only lead to you gaining more muscle mass.
Step 3: Commit to a Good Diet
It is hard to get around having a proper diet to look your best. You will want to take some protein before your actual workout. You might even want to look into a good protein shake as a meal replacement. These tend to be easy to make and consume.
Plus they are absorbed at a higher rate than regular food. This is a giant factor of how to build muscle tone quickly. When you are done working out you should look into eating a meal of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. This will help give your body the fuel it needs to operate at top performance.
Step 4: Rest and Enjoy the Benefits
Sleeping is a very important factor of this equation. Your body will actually restructure as you rest. This time is crucial to the outcome of your dieting and exercising regiment. You will wake up one day and find that your body has changed on you for the better.
While this is a good start. There is much more you should look at before taking on such a task.
You may still have various questions. What about doing more cardio? How about special pills? How should I eat and how much at each meal?
Click on how to bulk up muscle to gain quick access to the 16 page ultimate report and turn your body into a brick house nearly overnight!
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6453893

Different Benefits of Yoga

       Yoga, an age-old Indian practice, is associated with integrated physical, mental and spiritual awakening. In terms of modern interpretations, it generally refers to the asanas as forms of exercise and meditation. As an alternative medicine, Yoga has reached new heights of popularity in West and East alike. As of today, Yoga instructors all over the world are successfully guiding masses towards physical and mental improvement through the various low-impact physical exercises of Hatha Yoga, or the more strenuous Bikram Yoga or Power Yoga.
Musculoskeletal Benefits
All forms of yoga require the body to hold posture and balance, thereby strengthening muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. People suffering from back and neck pain, stiffness in muscles have been benefited from the less demanding Hatha Yoga. Power Yoga, which keeps the body in constant movement, has been conclusively proven to increase athletic agility and core strength. Researchers are of the opinion that yoga actually increases bone density. This is a significant finding that can help millions of people suffering from osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Like all other fitness regimes, yoga helps in weight loss as well and not merely by burning calories during workouts. Yoga includes breathing exercises that increase lung capacity and metabolic processes, thus mobilizing fat stores faster. The various postures help reduce local fats that are otherwise difficult to eliminate.
Often, physicians prescribe Yoga to heal minor skeletal injuries and muscle sprains. Even minor skin burns are healed by Yoga which increases blood circulation in the injured area.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Many patients suffering from high blood pressure have opted for Yoga and found it beneficial. Hatha Yoga, especially, lowers heart rate and blood pressure by helping even circulation of blood throughout the body. Power Yoga is an effective form of cardio workout that increases strength of heart muscles. Yoga is one of the few types of exercises that help massaging all the internal organs and glands. This natural stimulus helps fighting diseases and keeping the body in sound order.
Yoga and Mental Health
Physical benefits aside, Yoga is a popular form of psychological therapy. The breathing exercises help people focus their energies and concentrate. Children suffering from attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity have been able to relax and concentrate after extensive yoga meditation routines. Generally, yoga practitioners are easily able to cope with anxiety, stress, depression and erratic mood swings. Many victims of trauma have turned to yoga to find inner peace and spiritual calm.
Other Benefits
Fatigue and insomnia are two major problems plaguing people all over the world; Yoga has been found beneficial to people suffering from either. Regular Yoga controls erratic sleep patterns, resulting in deeper sleep. In women, symptoms of menopause have been minimized by specific Yoga postures like the Mountain pose, the Warrior pose, the Triangle pose and the Standing Side Stretch pose. By increasing flexibility, Power Yoga helps minimize injury among athletes. Increased endurance and will power is another benefit of this practice. By stretching different visceral organs and the digestive tract, Yoga stimulates the body to flush out toxins.
Although there are countless benefits of Yoga, it is advised to consult a physician before starting the workout.
If you would like to book a boot camp, visit Sydney Boot Camps.

The Truth About Glycolic Peels

      All of us have endured acne outbreaks sometime or the other during our youth and for some of us, even into adulthood. Unfortunately, even when the flare up comes to an end and the breakouts cease, we are not done; not by a long shot. For many of us, the next step is to find a way to erase the scars that acne leaves behind, in the most efficient way possible. One popular method that has seen a rise in popularity as of late are glycolic peels, a variety of cosmetic chemical peels that can be just as effective as more aggressive forms of treatment, but in a more natural manner.
How Acne is Caused
There are glands underneath our skin called the sebaceous glands. These glands provide the oils our skin needs to stay moisturized and pliant. Without them, our skin would soon dry out and become irritated. The skin can also become irritated when these oils interact with any dirt or bacteria clinging to the tiny hairs embedded in the pores, closing them off and filling the pores with the infected mix.
The longer the pus remains in the pores, the greater the irritation to the skin. Our immune system will try to fight it off as best it can, and will often cause the sebaceous glands to send more oil into the skin, in an attempt to flush the clogs away, but usually winds up making it worse. Cleansing your face daily, at least once or twice a day, is the best way to help your skin rid itself of contaminants, and for some people, it does help. Acne will clear up eventually on its own or you can see a dermatologist for medication to help in healing.
How Glycolic Peels Can Help
Acne does fade over time with the help of good skin care habits and the right medication. Unfortunately, for many of us it leaves behind permanent reminders of its ravages in the form of acne scars. Some may never extend past the surface of the skin, while others will be deep and pitted. The scars are primarily made up of hardened nodules of dead skin, trapped within the healing skin.
Some of these scars can only be removed with cosmetic surgery, using techniques such as dermabrasion or skin resurfacing, which will remove the first few layers of skin until the scars are removed. These can be painful and will require several sessions until the desired result is achieved. A gentler process that is preferred by patients with sensitive skin are chemical peels that incorporate glycolic acid as its base. Glycolic acid is a form of alpha-hydroxy acid that is found naturally in fruits like sugar cane and pineapple, and works very quickly to remove layers of dead skin so that healthy skin can rise to the surface, and reducing the appearance of scars.
The Correct Way to Administer Chemical Peels
The safest way to undergo any chemical peels is to do so at the hands of a skilled and experienced skin specialist, like a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. With peels that use glycolic acid, the strength of the peel is determined by the amount of acid added to the compound, and that is determined by the condition of the skin itself. Only a professional skin specialist will have the experience necessary to assure that the chemical peel does not extend beyond the necessary layers to remove the dead skin.
During the skin treatment, the mixture is applied directly to the skin and allowed to soak into the pores. The top layer of dead skin cells are dissolved and removed, wiped away by the chemical peel. Once that is done, you will see the fresh layer of healthy skin appear, pink and vibrant, and the scarring will be significantly diminished. The effects will last around a month, at which time the dermatologist will determine whether to continue with more glycolic peels, or to proceed with another form of treatment.
Want to know more about how using glycolic peels can aid in healing acne scars? The caring professionals at True MD have the answers you seek, so call them today. Also check out our new page on Glycolic Peels.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6478402

Bee Pollen for Candida: New Hope for Women


Candida is a funny fungus; it is already present in the body, in the mouth, intestines and the genitals. The problem starts really when due to an imbalance which allows this particular body flora to grow unchecked. Bee pollen for candida treatments is being explored to give women an alternative to expensive yeast infection preparations.
Connecting B pollen and candida may seem like a huge stretch but this super food is proving to be better than anyone every believed. We have all been hearing how b pollen is the most nutritionally complete food substance known to man.
We hear about a new healing property almost daily but it was a little hard for me to believe that b pollen could actually cure a yeast infection.
The thought of b pollen for candida was a little unsettling but I must admit that it was also very intriguing. The fact is b pollen has been proven to have extremely active anti- microbial factors. They have even proven that a hard to control disease like salmonella can actually respond to b pollen treatments. Its anti-fungal properties are what will be the most effective for yeast infection.
B pollen has what is known as friendly flora. This is what makes a b pollen candida treatment so effective. Now do not get it confused it is b pollen and not honey that will treat your yeast infection. The high sugar content in honey can actually exasperate the condition.
Candida is a fungus and since it is a natural occurring fungus in the vaginal canal a change in the makeup of chemicals and enzymes can cause it to grow out of proportion. The results are a very itchy and uncomfortable time for women.
B pollen works by restoring the natural balance in your system. Its active anti-bacterial also kills the yeast and bacteria that are running rampant.
Taking bee pollen for candida has the added benefit of making your entire body healthier. Researchers have already proven that bee pollen is nutritious. It has all of the vitamins, minerals and nutrients a body needs to be healthy and strong. B pollen is the most complete food on the planet. Even when research scientist attempts to duplicate the pollen it is not the same. In fact they even tried to feed bees this man made pollen and it killed them all.
Bee pollen for candida treatments is completely safe because it is all natural. You can clear up the nasty yeast infection and enjoy these other health benefits as well. B pollen boost your energy level, gives you more mental clarity for better concentration, strengthens the immune system and provides you with anti-oxidants that helps capture the free radicals in the bloodstream.
Bee pollen for candida should always be purchased from a reputable source. The one I use personally has the purest b pollen because it is from New Zealand.
There is a very low almost none existent level of pollution in New Zealand so the risks of contaminating flowers is at an all-time low. For more information about this bee pollen source and how to buy your own supply click here. http://about-bee-pollen.com/
Gordon Hall is fervent about enabling you and everyone to live a healthy lifestyle, and is an ardent reviewer of Bee Pollen and Bee Pollen Products. Visit his website now at http://about-bee-pollen.com/ to discover which Bee Pollen Supplements Gordon recommends after far ranging and extensive research.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6484084

Do You Remember?

Expert Author Oluwaseun Bamgbopa

        Am I afraid? This question I always ask myself, guess what, I have no suitable answer that fits that question. Every time I have a sense of doing something new, I always have this huge feeling of being scared. This world is so unique and to the best of my knowledge it is dynamic as well, it goes as planned today and tomorrow it exactly the opposite.
You wake up in the morning with big dreams and hope to be a better person and with all that hopes, the world throws a big challenge your way. These challenges you can overcome but the tools and instruments to overcome them are out of sight therefore to get those instruments is another hell of a work.
With my little stay on this very planet, I am able to establish the facts that every individual success is connected to another individual or probably a group of people usually more than one. A student that goes to school and with a very good degree will still be at the expense of another person to give him/her a job, a general manager in a reputable company will need the assistance of other people like the secretary, accountant, store keeper, the gate man, the driver etc for the company to grow, traders will need people to buy their wares, school teachers will need students or pupils to teach so as to earn their money, Police will need cases to solve just to earn their ranks, Government will also need people to rule etc. We all need each other to survive or live and I am very much convinced that it is a good and beautiful thing but to look at it on the other side, it is not as good as we all think because we human have clearly taken that as an advantage to mess around with one another. God created heavens and the earth. He doesn't need anybody or any one to exist he is in-dependable and in that infinite mercy of His, we all have the honour to be created and there we are.
As human, we believe in honor, glory and in some cases we return little to God, we easily forget our basis, we do all sort of things that we clearly know were wrong. When we love, we all want love in return, when we care we want care in return, when we give we are also ultimately expecting something somewhere. All these are completely natural but we forget the facts that we are forever indebted to someone who is an active listener and hearer.
I am really motivated by HIS nature and HIS doings and anything I do, I will always remember to emulate HIM in a little way I can like when I give love, I don't expect it back, when I care, I clearly don't want that back either, but if am provided with those privilege in return that is fine, but what I will always want back is to always remember that someone is up there that gives it all without asking for return. Let us always remember and put that in to practice. By doing these, this globe will be a better place to inhabit...

You Already Have All You Need!

Expert Author Linda Hancock

       Recently I was asked to do some work at a camp north of Fort McMurray. It was obvious that I was naïve about the environment and orientation sent my thoughts into overdrive. Because of the hot summers in Medicine Hat, I am used to wearing light dresses and sandals to work. When I stated this during my travel orientation, I was told "You'll stand out!"
It seemed that I would need to make a trip to Work Warehouse to prepare for the project!
Then I decided to do a little research of my wardrobe before beginning a shopping trip.
A couple of pairs of jeans that I had bought in Texas but never worn actually fit. I found a good pair of running shoes that would take care of the "no open toes" criteria. A fleece-lined windbreaker that I had long forgotten about would serve in the case of rain. I even discovered a soft-sided duffle bag that was still in the package. This would fit the bill regarding the luggage weight restrictions.
By the time that I gathered everything together I realized that I really wouldn't need to go to the store. I had everything that I would need!
So often in life, we think that we need to shop or learn or accumulate when we already have everything that we need. All it takes is a little research and you will soon find that you have saved money and time by accessing what you have - and you'll be proud of yourself for being so resourceful.
Before you place an order for take-out food, check your cupboards. You might be surprised at what you can whip up for supper with a little effort.
Before you hire the expensive consultant, try reading any documents you have carefully and gather information that will help you to understand the situation. By doing this you might find that you no longer need the expertise of the accountant or lawyer. Even if you do, however, you will be more organized and informed than if you had gone to an appointment without any preparation.
You might also have skills that you can use to save time and money. Try stitching up the rip in that outfit before buying a new one. Get a book from the library that can help you learn to do that renovation, landscape the yard or complete the project that you thought you would have to hire out.
You see, when it comes right down to it what you really need is the desire to meet your own needs and those of the ones you love, Once you have that, there is no end to the number of things that you will discover that you have already have in your life!
And now I would like to invite you to claim your Free Instant Access to a complimentary list of 10 Steps to Making Your Life an Adventure when you visit http://lindahancock.com/
From Dr. Linda Hancock, Registered Psychologist and Registered Social Worker

When to Use Property Finder

Expert Author Jyotsna Ramani

       With the increasing global population there has been a heavy requirement for properties and thus the need for a property finder arose. Looking for a house to buy or rent can be a herculean task in itself. It might actually seem impossible if you set out on the tedious job all by yourself. A property finder, however, comes as a relief in this case.
A professional hand usually is the best to find you your desired property. A property finder actually refers to an individual or an organization which professionally helps individuals over buying and selling properties.
The popularity of a Property Finder
There has been a recent trend of using the property value finder to locate suitable properties for stay. Almost everyone on the lookout to find house for sale is quite well acquainted with this term. Every person has different needs and choices hence they are sure to like different kinds of house. Investing in a property is a big deal and many can just afford it once in life so none want to see any loopholes in the homes they purchase. Satisfying customer needs sounds easier said than done however these professionals handle it pretty well.
You must keep in mind that there are a few basic steps in any property search which involves locating, advertising, buying, selling and sales pushing. The task in itself is very time consuming and complicated and tests ones limits. A professional aspiring to work in this field must have a good amount of patience, knowledge, information, discipline and efficient communication techniques.
If you are looking forward to buying a property in the near future here are few of the most important features of a finder.
  • Letting services - Looking out for a short vacation in a foreign city? This is one thing that you will definitely want to try. The property workers will find you a safe and convenient option in any city you visit.
  • Buying services - This option will be very useful if you are planning to shift base from one country to another. Local property dealers have a good amount of knowledge and experience in these deals and hence can help out efficiently with buying suitable properties.
  • Selling services - A property value finder ensures that your property is not sold at unreasonable prices or at a loss.
  • Consultancy - These also provide valuable information on real estate and you can contact them with any property related query.

Proper use of the services of a property finder can help you find a property in a matter of days.

I Do Not Have Time To Market My Legal Services Business

Expert Author Nick Jervis     
 
        This is a statement I often hear from solicitors who are running a practice or a team. How do I find the time to market my business? Well, the very simple and stark answer is that nowadays you absolutely MUST find the time to market your legal services. The legal world has changed, it is far more competitive than it ever has been, and what's more it is only going to get more and more so with new entrants steaming into the legal services market place. As I often say, if you keep doing what you have always done you will no longer get the same results, you will now see rapidly diminishing results.
If you have never consistently found time for marketing you will have seen your business go through the 'peaks and troughs' model repeatedly. One month you might be too busy to do any marketing so you concentrate on servicing your existing clients, but then you find the next month because you have not been doing any marketing and do not have any systems in place you suddenly do not have enough work. I can see you nodding your head right now.
The trouble with this is that it is a horrible way to run a business. It leaves you sometimes awake at night wandering how you are going to pay the overheads next month with no work coming in. It leaves you struggling to think of new methods of generating new client instructions. It also leaves you completely open to those snake oil salesmen selling you this super new-fangled method of marketing that is only available for one firm of solicitors in your town but if you don't buy it now it will go to your nearest competitor (oh, and the price is nearly always around £1,000 and THESE THINGS NEVER PRODUCE A RETURN ON INVESTMENT).
You see I know all of these things because I have been marketing law firms for over 21 years now and I understand all of the challenges and frustrations faced by you.
However, you can make your life an awful lot more straightforward, enjoyable and less stressful. The answer is to put in place systems which automate your marketing processes. This absolutely means that you must have a marketing database, but don't panic, there is simple software that makes this really, really easy for you. It also means that you must use 'marketing leverage' repeatedly and relentlessly too, so that whenever you undertake any marketing activity you use the materials or information created as many times as possible to provide you with the maximum chances of success for your efforts.
The legal services world has changed and you must change with it, or you will face serious problems, but you do not have to. You need to find time to market your system, but you can be clever with your time and put in place automatic systems to bring you new leads every single month, not just on a one off basis. If you do this, as Louis Armstrong once sang, You will have all the time in the world; well, almost.
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Nick Jervis is a Law Firm Marketing expert, providing advice on how you can win more clients for your legal practice.