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- "The man who can drive himself further once the effort gets painful is the man who will win." Roger Bannister

- "The spirit, the will to win, and the will to excel are the things that endure. These qualities are so much important than the events that occur." Vince Lombardi

- "Success in our calling is the result of a person's love of and belief in the work he has undertaken. Earnest and conscientious labor often accomplishes more in the end than the brilliant genius." Anonymous

- "Food offered without affection is like food offered to the dead." Hindu Proverb

- "What you have to do and the way have to do it incredibly simple. Whether you are willing to do it, that's another matter." Peter F. Drucker

- The best motivation is self motivation. The guy says, "I wish someone would come by and turn me on." What if they don't show up? You've got to have a better plan for your life. Jim Rohn

- "How does one measure time? No, not in days, months, or years. It is measured by the most precious of all things: Love. Without which all beings and things whether brave and/or beautiful would perish." Irish Blesshin

Table of Contents:Sports- The Basics Of The Game Of Soccer....................................................................................5- Choosing the Right Soccer Nutrition...................................................................................6- Different Types Of Tennis Courts To Play In.......................................................................7- The Right Equipment For A New Baseball Player...............................................................8- Gearing Up For Ice Hockey..................................................................................................9- Effortless Distance With Your Golf Swing..........................................................................10- Senior Golfers Can Still Play Great Golf.............................................................................11- Steps to Improving Your Golf Score....................................................................................13- Golf Resorts Offer Much More Than Golf..........................................................................14- Making Careful Sports Betting Decisions...........................................................................15

Extreme Sports- The Formula 1 Fan Defined.................................................................................................16- How to Get a Cheap Sports Car...........................................................................................19- How To Choose A Mountain Bike.......................................................................................21- How To Select Snow Skiing Clothes...................................................................................22- How To Choose A Martial Arts School................................................................................23

Hobbies- Introduction To Hunting......................................................................................................25- The Secret to Fruitful Turkey Hunting................................................................................25- Choosing Your Paintball Equipment...................................................................................26- Some Drawing Tips for Beginners......................................................................................28

Games- Sudoku – Mind Games At Their Best.................................................................................29- How to Play Texas Holdem For Beginners.........................................................................29- How To Do The Best Magic Tricks.....................................................................................31- The 3 Secrets Of Magicians................................................................................................32

Recreation- Tips For Getting Started In Astronomy...............................................................................32- Stargazing Through An Online Telescope..........................................................................33- How To Set Up A Halloween Party For Adults..................................................................34- A Guide To Piano For Beginners........................................................................................35- Learning the Basics of the Guitar.......................................................................................36- Wood Finishing and Weatherproofing Guidelines.............................................................37- The Basics To Antique Furniture........................................................................................39- Wood-Burning Stoves - Timeless Classics.........................................................................40

Sports The Basics Of The Game Of Soccer

The game of soccer is played in two halves, the lengths varying between age groups, but professionals, college and high school play two 45 minute halves.

The most obvious rules to soccer are that the game is played between two teams, consisting of nine players and a goalie.

The players on each team are divided into offense and defense, and are only allowed to play the soccer ball with their feet.

The main objective in soccer is to kick the ball into the opposing teams’ goal, scoring a point, or a goal. Only the goalie is allowed to use either his or her hands as well as feet.

Soccer players will often practice “juggling”, which is a skill that consists of keeping the ball in the air through the use of the feet, knees, thighs, head, or chest, all legal places on the body to control the ball. The use of the hands or the arm will result in the opposing team taking possession of the ball.

When a player on one of the teams kicks or knocks the ball out of bounds on the two long sides of the soccer field, the opposing team them takes possession of ball by doing a “throw-in”, in which both of the feet must remain on the ground while the player throws the soccer ball back into play.

If the soccer ball is kicked out of bounds over the line of their own goal, it then results in a “corner kick” where the opposite team takes the ball to the corresponding corner and kicks the ball back into play to one of their teammates.

However, if the team kicks the ball out of bounds over the goal line of the opposing teams’ goal, the play will then turn to a “goal kick” taken by one of the defensive players of that team.

“Fouls” are called under a number of circumstances. A few of them are when a soccer player touches the ball with his hand or arm, if a player slide tackles another player, excessive pushing, tripping or force, unsportsmanlike conduct, or off-sides (when the offense of one team is closer to the goal they are trying to score on than that teams’ defense; unless the ball was there first).

In these circumstances, the referee will generally call the ball dead in the spot where the foul occurred, and give the opposite team a “free kick”.

In the case that the regulation time of the soccer runs out while the score is still tied, it will often result in a “shootout” where the goalie of one team is up against a single player from the opposing team. The first one to score a goal wins the game.

Choosing the Right Soccer NutritionThink of an average human’s body as a small manufacturing shop. It doesn’t require a lot of prime materials, but it also fails to perform spectacularly.

If a normal human’s body is a manufacturing shop, an athlete’s body is a state-of-the-art factory that can produce outstanding performances, but also requires wagons of prime material.

Your goal as a soccer player is to get that factory of yours running at maximum performance but it will also be your role to provide it with the right (and the right amount of) prime materials.

This is where soccer nutrition comes into play and if you follow me into the article below, I’ll provide you with some of the most important information regarding what you should eat and when you should eat it.

Soccer Nutrition – ProteinsProteins are the building blocks of life and they’re the ones responsible for muscular growth. As a soccer player, muscular growth should be of paramount importance, so your soccer diet will have to contain a lot of proteins. Proteins usually come from animal products, such as eggs, milk or meat, but they can also be found in soya, lettuce and a few other specific veggies.

Soccer Nutrition – CarbohydratesThe carbohydrates are your body’s fuel source and just like a car needs gas to function properly, so does your body need carbohydrates for each and every one of its functions.

Every movement that you do eats up a little of this carbohydrate fuel…move your hand to scratch your head, you lost some carbs…knock on the door…you lost some carbs…even when we blink we lose a couple of carbohydrates; you can imagine the amount of fuel needed in a soccer match then. But carbohydrates aren’t just energy boosters, they’re also part of a great deal of bodily functions, such as the immune system, blood clotting, muscle growth and development.

Soccer Nutrition – Pre Game and Post Game Soccer DietsThe issue regarding pre-game and post-game meals is very debated, mainly because the Internet is crammed with a lot of misleading information on the subject. Generally, your performance in a game will be determined by what you eat starting with 2-3 days before the match day and the last meal you take a few hours before the game starts. It’s a good idea to eat carbohydrate-rich food a few days prior to the game and you can also get a rich carb snack 3-4 hours before the match begins.

You’ll also want to look for foods that have a low glycemic index (low GI) prior to the match, as they are proven to extend your endurance and effort capabilities for a short period of time. Just make sure that the low GI food you eat pre match are not also high fibred, as dense fiber is absorbed harder by the body and that food will just dangle around in your belly while you run. So a good pre-match soccer diet should contain:

- Low GI foods- High Carbohydrate foods- No high-fiber foods

After the game is over, the extensive effort will have you weakened and your muscles will be very vulnerable, since you used up all the carbohydrates in them.

That’s why a rich carbohydrate meal is essential after a match. Studies suggest that the body is better at absorbing these carbohydrates and other nutrients from food 1 to 2 hours after prolonged effort.

High GI foods will also help you recover your muscles faster and you won’t feel tired and beat down all day long, as the carbs and glycemin from your post game meal will work towards getting you back

Different Types Of Tennis Courts To Play InThe courses of tennis are standard in dimension, but change considerably into external material. The rules of tennis dictate the length, the width, and the placement of the lines on a court of tennis.

The courses of tennis have a variety of surfaces and can be outside or inside. In this article, we will present dimensions and the basic aspects of the courses of tennis and will discuss the various types of surfaces of court of tennis.

The rules of tennis dictate that the courses of tennis are 78 feet length of base line to the base line. A net, 3 feet top in the medium, divides the court into two equal halves.

The courses of tennis are 36 feet of broad doubles put at the variation with the doubles put at the variation, and 27 feet broad of chooses the touchline chooses the touchline.

With the difference of dimensions of a court of tennis, the surface of court of tennis can change in the character. Various surfaces have various characteristics which affect the model of the play. Common surfaces for the courses of tennis external include grass, red clay, clay green, and the courses hard. Moreover, the courses of tennis often have hard or synthetic surfaces of interior, carpet-like surfaces.

The very first ones run of tennis were made out of grass. While the number of courses of grass tennis decreased these last years, some remain, and the world'S the majority of prestigious tournament of tennis, the championships at Wimbledon, is still exploited courses of grass tennis.

Courses of grass tennis are considered a fast surface because the ball moves quickly by the court when it rebounds. Typically, the ball remains low and close to the ground. Because the speed of the court and unreliability of the rebound, historically the players exploiting courses of grass tennis prefer to draw a flight the ball out of the air as much as possible.

Red clay and clay green are the two types of clay, or slow down, go to the front of surfaces. Red courses of clay tennis are made out of clay normal or crushed red brick. Open French is exploited the red clay courses. Clay green, the standard more common of clay court to the UNITED STATES, is made in Har-Tru, a mixture of stone, rubber, and plastics crushed.

Clay courses are considered slow because the ball rebounds more slowly in addition to court. Typically, the players exploiting courses of clay tennis prefer to strike balls in addition to rebound by behind the base line.

The courses hard, the surface of the court most common to the UNITED STATES, are another fast surface of court. Courses hard are made out of asphalt or concrete coating with a thin scellor and a special painting. Some types of course hard have more extended and rubber coatings.

The ball rebounds high in addition to hard surfaces of court of tennis and moves by the court quickly. Since the ball has a reliable rebound and the ball draws aside the court quickly, the players can use a variety of the tactic. Generally, the aggressive play is preferred.

In conclusion, the players of tennis play also inside, particularly during the winter, on the courses of tennis of interior. Surfaces of interior of court of tennis are made concrete or of a synthetic matter or plastic which imitates grass.

The courses of tennis of interior are generally the fastest surface of court of tennis of all. Of professional level, with the hard services, the discharges, and the powerful trokes of reasons dominate of the matches over the courses of tennis of interior.

The Right Equipment For A New Baseball PlayerIf you are serious about your young person playing the baseball and really appreciating it, then you need the right equipment.

Nothing There more frustrating with a child that to make the study with the field with a glove it is difficult like rock and difficult to break that inside.

You want to obtain a glove which the child can immediately use with success.

If the child cannot correctly operate the glove and catch the ball, they can become discouraged and give up the sport before they obtain really started.

There are gloves on the market particularly designed for these kids who take their baseball seriously. You will want a glove made starting from flexible leather, thus it is easy to break the glove inside. Another flexible leather advantage is the ball will remain in the glove, with the difference of the gloves made starting from plastic fabric which make it possible the ball to too easily escape all.

Two innovations in the design of glove are incorporated in several of these gloves on the market. There is a design of three fingers per hall of shortstop Ozzie Smith of fame. The other single design is a mitten of gloves of baseball of youth by hall of glove of baseball Gary Charretier of fame.

The design of three fingers allows the rosâtre, ring and the average fingers with being in the same large finger fix. This arrangement makes it possible balls to be easily bailed out and facilitates closing the glove.

The mitten of the single catcher is an hybrid of a first mitten of basemans and traditional mitten of gloves of baseball. With more surface to catch the ball plus the additional filling where you need it, the young attrapeurs will find this glove very easy to employ.

The hand of young people will be protected and they will test less 'sting '. moreover incorporated in this design is a well defined pocket which makes it possible the ball to easily remain in the glove once that it was caught.

The measurement of quality in a glove is the material which it is made leave and the design for the serious players of ball of youth and is detail of age. Gloves of high quality are made with the steerhide or a combination of the steerhide and leather flexable thin used on the back of the glove which marks it light, durable and easy to break inside.

These types of gloves are typically wrought hand for high quality the serious request players. Many gloves of good quality also incorporate a system of belt of wrist of Velcro, making it possible to the player to adjust the belt of wrist on Juste the good size.

The gloves of youth come in various faces, for example, and glove of 11.5 inches. This measurement is supposed to indicate the overall length of the glove. However, there in aucuns standard and you can note that a glove of 11.5 inches of a manufacturer is different from the different one.

The typical sizes are 10.5 inches, 11 inches, 11.25 inches and 11.5 inches. There'of S much really not of difference in the gloves. A good guiding principle is for the word that the six years old a glove of 10.5 inches would be good while the 11 years old of the 11.25 or 11.5 would be good.

There are gloves of adult which are 11.5 inches length, however, the difference if the glove of adult will be much wider to adapt to larger hands. You ensure that you obtain a glove of youth, because the size of adult will be too large distance.

Intend to spend approximately $35-$70 for a glove of the youth of good quality less and you can be disappointed, more and you probably went over edge.

Gearing Up For Ice HockeyIf you are ready to hit the ice and start playing ice hockey you need to know about the basic equipment that is essential to your game.

The very basics include your stick, your skates, pucks and protective gear. There are different types of equipment for hockey which you can choose based on your preferences.

Starting out, it is a good idea to buy used or at least inexpensive equipment until you discover your personal preferences. When choosing a hockey stick, your height needs to be considered.

If the stick is too long or too short, you will put unnecessary stress on your body when trying to use it and your performance in the game will be affected as well. If you visit a hockey equipment shop, the experts there can help you to determine what type of stick is best for you.

Buying skates for hockey is the easy part. When you purchase skates make sure that they fit well and have sufficient support for your ankles so you won’t easily sustain injuries or rub blisters on your feet. Pucks aren’t really anything special although you may find that you favor one style or brand over another. They are relatively inexpensive, so trying different types of pucks shouldn’t be a problem.

For protective gear you definitely need a well-fitted helmet with a mouth guard, shoulder pads, elbow pads and knee pads. A jockstrap and protective cup is also fundamental for your protection in the game of hockey. Protective girdles that cover the main part of your body are also a good idea as are hockey gloves. Neck protectors are also available for hockey players.

When you are dressed out in your hockey gear you should be protected, but sometimes protective clothing feels uncomfortable and some types may interfere with your mobility. If you feel like you can’t move you might want to try different types of protective gear, but for your safety, don’t give it up entirely. Unnecessary injuries can be prevented by using protective gear.

You’ll eventually find the right mix of equipment, clothing and gear that will make you feel both comfortable and safe on the ice. As you get more familiar with the game and what it entails, you have a better idea of what you like and don’t like and you’ll be able to select higher quality gear that suits your needs and preferences for the game of hockey.

Effortless Distance With Your Golf SwingMany times when you hear people talking about getting the most distance out of their drives or irons, you probably hear the word timing used as they talk about how to achieve this.

Or, when you watch the professionals play (especially in person) the distance they achieve seems to come so effortlessly and smooth. Although a discussion of the entire golf swing isn’t within the scope of this article, let’s talk about the timing.

Timing is a word that is often bantered about when discussing the golf swing and more precisely achieving maximum distance; but timing of what? And how do I achieve it?

In a nutshell, when is comes to getting the most efficient distance out of your golf shot, the timing element is the timing of the release of the stored energy that has amassed during the process of your golf swing.

Again, for the purposes of this article, let’s fast forward just a bit to the point where you are at the top of your golf swing. At this point, if all has gone well, your left arm will straight. The relationship between the club and your wrists will be 90 degrees (wrists will be cocked). Your hips will have rotated approximately 45 degrees away from their original address position, while your shoulders have rotated more toward a 90 degree posture. Essentially, you are in somewhat of a ‘coiled’ position at the top of your back swing.

At this position, you have accumulated your stored energy. Except additional energy that will be stored and released rapidly as your shaft flexes and un-flexes, this is what you have to work with.

Now that you have all this energy stored up, how and when to release it is on of us golfers greatest conundrum. This power that you now possess is but a fleeting thing, and one must apply it at the proper moment in order to achieve the desired results.

Unfortunately, from this position at the top of the back swing is where the vast amount of golfers goes wrong; and that is the first movement they make back toward the ball is with the hands and arms. If you do this, a vast amount of your stored energy has now been released and not available to be applied to the golf ball. When you do this, you lose the angle created between your wrists and your club. You lose the angle that you have created between your shoulder and your hips. In essence, (among other things) you have begun uncoiling way to early.

Among other things, in its simplest form, this type of action is generally called swinging or releasing from the top or casting the club. Aside from grossly leaking energy from your swing this will cause and outside in swing path, and more often than not produce some severity of slice.

But, let’s stay strictly within the confines of energy and timing. If, from the top of your swing, you begin the ascent of your golf swing toward the impact zone from the ground up and maintain the aforementioned angles we discussed much longer, you’ll be well on your way to applying the energy of your swing at the proper moment (not to mention your swing path will be much more desirable).

From the top of your swing, the weight beginning to transfer from your back instep toward your front foot is what initiates the downswing.

Not your hands, not your shoulders, not a spinning motion with your hips. As your weigh begins to move toward your front side, your hips will follow by beginning to release (uncoil) from the angle they had attained at the top of the swing.

As the hips begin to uncoil and continue to follow the weight shift your shoulders and arms will naturally follow. Note that I said naturally. You shouldn’t be consciously firing your arms and shoulders to catch up. If you do, once again, you have just spent more of your stored energy.

As the weight shifts, the hips follow with rotation and the shoulders and arms now begin to follow suit, your wrists should still be in a ‘cocked’ position in relationship to the club. In other words, this angle is still maintained.

As your left hip clears, this imparts a tremendous amount of pressure for your upper body to catch up. And catch up it will in a big way. With you hips cleared and your belly beginning to point down the target line, you shoulders will follow through the hitting zone and finally your arms and hands will be naturally force to release in a dramatic fashion through the impact zone.

As all this happens the shaft of your club will have a pretty fair amount of flex imparted on it. This is easily discernable if you look at a slow motion or still photo view of the club coming into the impact zone.

It is at this point, with the shaft flexed that the right hand begins to release (and eventually pronate) that is the culmination of releasing all this stored energy upon the golf ball with the proper timing.

In a sense, the release of the energy which entails the hips following the initiated weight shift, followed by the upper body responding to the hips uncoiling, that then begins to lead the arms and hands down the target line and through the hitting zone until finally the hands can no longer remain ‘cocked’ and they release the club naturally as a result of rapidly catching up to the rest of what the body has done.

In summary it is the arms and hands that complete the release of your stored energy NOT initiate it from the top of your swing. As you begin to bring this concept together it may actually feel to you as though your arms and hand are ‘trailing’ the rest of your swing. And in sense they are… they are waiting for the precise timing.

And the great thing is, is that the physics of this will all take place quite naturally once you begin to refine the mechanics of your golf swing with your teaching professional. And with some practice you’ll soon be able to let the natural forces and physics of a good golf swing apply the proper timing to the golf ball in a smooth and effortless… longer distance manner.

Senior Golfers Can Still Play Great GolfIf you’re a senior golfer…don’t give up and don’t give into the perception that’s it’s all downhill from here.

No way!

You have a lot of GREAT golf years ahead of you, but you need to take a different approach to your golf improvement.

The approach I’m going to talk about will quickly and dramatically transform your game; and you can do this all right in your own home in less than 30 minutes.

No more teasing…this secret approach is your BODY!

Yes…it’s that simple!

Do you ever go on the course and start playing only to feel like you can’t make a full backswing?

How about your distance? Have you lost yards off your drives the last few years? And lastly, how about aches and pains? Does your back, shoulders, hips or even wrists hurt when you play or afterwards?

Then there’s only one choice!

Improve your current physical fitness, specific to your golf game.

You may have heard this before…but have you done anything about it? I know it can be confusing with all the information out there.

The first thing you need to consider is the credibility and experience of these professionals.

Do they know golf? How long have they been working with golfers. Have golfers ‘really’ improved with their programs, etc.?

I’m here to tell you there is hope…and a lot of it.

The first thing you need to do is find out what your limitations are. Is it strength? Is it flexibility? How about the mental? That’s a huge part of the game; but I can tell you, your mind and BODY are linked very intimately.

If you feel weak, tired and out of shape…your confidence will be so low it will be a miracle you can even complete a round of golf, let alone get a score you’re proud of.

It’s time to change all that! Right here…right now!

Taking ACTION “right after” reading this article is critical to your golfing future. I don’t believe in thinking about something. Dreaming about something. And not doing anything.

Have a clear, very specific picture in your mind of the kind of golfer you are capable of being and badly want to be.

I can’t tell you exactly what to do in this article. It would be 20 pages of meaty stuff that would get your mind going a hundred miles a minute.

But I hope in this article, I’ve motivated you to take a look at your ‘current’ level of fitness (both strength and flexibility) and come up with a plan (either on your own, or with the help of a qualified golf fitness professional) that will transform your game quickly and easily.

It’s not as hard as you think. Just doing a few of the ‘right’ golf stretches and golf strength exercises in your home a couple of times a week will make a world of difference.

Now get away from your computer and do this stretch right away! It will feel so good on your lower back.

It’s my Lying Leg Crossover: - Lie on back with legs extended. - Raise one leg and bend at knee to 90 degrees in knee and hip. - Cross that leg over extended leg, while opposite shoulder stays on ground. - Go until slight pull in butt and lower back. - Hold and repeat once more. - Switch legs and do opposite side.

This is just one simple golf exercise of dozens you can do with minimal or no equipment that will quickly and dramatically transform your game for years to come! Happy golfing! And remember…”hit’em LONG & STRAIGHT!

Steps to Improving Your Golf ScoreIn all sports, it is essential that you warm up properly to attain the best performance. If you go to any professional or even amateur sporting event, you will see competing athletes doing pre-game warm-ups.

Golfers, especially those in the professional level, are not different from them. When tour professionals are about to begin their first tee, they would have made full warm-ups to be able to make their best swings.

However, most amateurs have their “warm-ups” done by racing from their autos to the shop and check in, then dashing to their first tee, in just about five minutes.

Most of the time, this is followed by an unsteady and inconsistent play for the first holes, ending up with another lackluster round. The result: Disappointing golf scores.

Here are some tips for you for improving your golf score: First, go to the golf course as early as possible. You need time in taking care of your matters in the

shop, in using the restroom, changing clothes and shoes, among others. It is crucial that you do not feel pressured or rushed, allowing you to get warmed up at a relaxed pace.

Remember that your warm-up time sets your mood and tempo throughout the day, so just relax and move slowly. A minimum of an hour or two before you begin hitting your first tee would probably help you get a nice and relaxed warm-up.

Start your warm-up routine at the putting green. By spending some time on warming up on the green, you will be ready for the speed of the greens. More importantly, you will start up your day with a nice, deliberate, and smooth tempo.

Spend about 10 minutes or so trying to hit the chips around the green using a tee as your target. First test the greens’ firmness to see how much or less the golf ball will roll. In general, the ball tends to move more on hard greens than the soft greens.

In addition, there are various kinds of rough which make the ball move differently when it touches the green. Spending some time around the green helps you to have some thoughts on choosing the great greenside shots during your round, and also, the spots where you are landing the golf ball on the putting surface.

Remember: If you do not get enough warm-up, you should not expect to have an optimal performance, and consequently, a good golf score.

Golf Resorts Offer Much More Than GolfGolf called gowf in Scots, originated in Scotland during the 15th century.

Over the years, it has gradually developed to its present form from the earlier practice of hitting a pebble with a primitive club in the sand dunes.

The popularity of Golf has made it a universal game. Golf resorts have sprung up all over the world and each has its own unique features.

Extra Facilities at Golf ResortsGolf resorts are not merely golf courses but they are resorts that offer enjoyable vacations as well. Generally golf resorts offer many other facilities to help the golfer and his family relax and enjoy. The golfer needs the maximum amount of relaxation after a hard day at the course. A wide range of facilities and amenities like, fitness centers, healthy cuisines, spas and aerobic classes are offered.

Personal Training ProgramsMany golf resorts are now providing personal training services, taught by experienced teaching professional, to help improve the golfers’ playing capabilities. Fitness training programs are also available to improve the fitness levels of the golfers through training in flexibility, stability and strength.

How To Find The Best Golf ResortThe Internet is the best and the most convenient way to locate good golf resorts. You have to browse through the various relevant sites and find the most appropriate resort where you can enjoy your game of golf and unwind. Check the facilities that they offer and match them with your own requirements. It is important to find out whether they have fitness centers, health resorts, spas, training studios and fitness instructors.

Go For Healthy CuisineAt the golf course you will shed a lot of calories throughout the day. Therefore, after a day at the golf course you would need to refuel yourself. And what better way to refuel than by having a non traditional healthy meal.

A few days at golf resorts will transform you into a completely different person as far as your body, attitude and game is concerned. You will feel the power oozing out of you. When your golf vacation is over, you will start planning the next one immediately.

Making Careful Sports Betting DecisionsThere are some many online sportsbooks out there that its hard as a recreational bettor to make a decision where you can bet in the knowledge that you won't be come another person ripped off by a rogue sportsbook.

The fact is that there are less dodgy operators around than, say, 2 years ago.

However, this does not mean you don't have to do your homework when deciding where to bet. Here are some simple things to look out for when selecting an online sports betting operator:

Licensing - not enough can be said about this. There are some very questionable places in the world that grant "gambling licenses". As far as we are concerned, the only places that offer valid licenses are first world countries, Costa Rica and Antigua. Steer clear from anything else.

Margin - every sportsbook takes some sort of margin on each bet, although it varies greatly. If either you can not find information about the margin, or it seems excessively high, move on.

Bonuses and Promotions - If a sportsbook offers a huge sign up bonus, it is often reason for suspicion. Why would anyone increase your odds by giving you tons of free cash. Bonuses have their place, but its a sweetener and no more.

Payout procedures - Are these clearly published on the website? Even if its is, send them en email to confirm their process and turnaround time.

Blacklisted? - You'd be amazed what pops up if you search for "Sportsbook name" + blacklisted in Google.

Customer Service - Phone the toll free number listed on the site before making a deposit. Ask them a simple question like what is their minimum deposit. If you don't get a concise answer, in proper English, it's time to leave.

Track record - How long have they been in business, or better yet, can you even establish this from their website.

There are many other things to look out for like ownership and awards won. At the end of the day, you should trust your gut instincts and do enough research to make you comfortable. Sports betting should be a fun activity and free of the stresses of wondering if your money is safe.

Extreme Sports The Formula 1 Fan Defined

What a wonderful and diverse world modern Formula 1 is. It offers a mystique, a sexiness, that no other motorsport can offer.

Exhaustive research and analysis is carried out every year on the people that make up the F1 audience.

We’re told F1 supporters are intelligent, articulate, usually affluent and posses a “worldliness” and sophistication that has seen multinationals clamouring over themselves, pouring billions into the sport to try and associate themselves with the F1 brand.

Well for the first time, I have conducted my own highly technical and scientific research (I spoke to a couple of my mates down at the pub) to compile the definitive F1 Fan study. This should be essential reading for all the marketing directors out there.

THE SCHUSCIPLE Distinguishing Features:

- Exclusively wear scarlet red- Know that F1 started in 1991- Have had chin augmentation surgery

Located- Everywhere - they’re like damn cockroaches – they just keep multiplying.

Favoured Products- Anything endorsed by St Michael of Maranello

Favourite Saying- I hope it rains, that will the “Rainmaster” at his best - Schumacher is the greatest of all time because…………..- Schumacher is so great he could win in any car (this saying has recently been heard less often)

Marketing Tip- If you want to sell something to the Schusciple, either paint it scarlet red, or feature a picture of the man himself – no other work is needed.

- Be prepared to spend $8 billion (Schumacher’s current rate for an endorsement)

OLD SCHOOL Distinguishing Features:

- Believe Formula 1’s glory days were circa 1520- Juan “Johnny Come Lately” Fangio marks the decline of Formula 1- Vehemently opposed to such ridiculous introductions as seat belts, brakes, helmets and engines.

Located- Zimmer frame or public library

Favoured Products- Gramophone- Wireless (no not the internet connection – radio)

Favourite Saying- I remember when……………- This will be the end of Formula 1

Marketing Tips- Unless your client owns a funeral home or manufactures hemorrhoid cream, don’t bother.

GREASE MONKEYS Distinguishing Features:

- Lack of personal hygiene- Pungent Odour (see above)- Inability to communicate to the opposite sex- Drive $2000 vehicles with $150 000 modifications- Wardrobe consists of a variety of overalls (usually team colours)

Located:- Head firmly buried in an engine or “performance” magazine

Favoured Products- Anything that makes a vehicle louder (performance enhancement optional)

Favourite Saying- No-one has actually heard them speak, other than some grunting noises

Marketers Tips- Make sure all advertising has a big picture of an engine- Use little of no text (due to illiteracy)

TECHNIUMS Distinguishing Feature:

- Acne- Thick Rimmed Glasses- Bad Posture- Pocket protector- Usually single

Located- In front of a computer

Favoured Products- Any hi tech material known by an unpronounceable word

Favourite Saying- McLaren’s new engine material – jargonium - is so advanced it’s not even on the periodic table ha ha- Pinnacle of Motorsport

Marketers Tips- Any product or service should have the suffix of “ium”- Ensure that advertising is placed is Modern Metallurgy and is written entirely in nonsensium

F1 DISCO BUNNIES Distinguishing Features

- Easily distracted by bright shiny objects- Will do anything to be associated with an F1 “insider” (even 5th reserve driver will do)- Don’t enjoy loud noises- Think the pit markings are a really big line of their favourite chemical

Located- Team hotels/motorhomes, usually in a perpetual horizontal position

Favoured Products- Anything shiny

Favourite Saying- If you can get me to meet Fernando I’ll make it worth your while

Marketers Tips- Any breast enhancement product

CONSPIRACY THEORISTS Distinguishing Features

- Believe in the FIA = Ferrari formula- Believe Max Mosley is trying to ruin the sport

Located- In F1 forums posting latest wild plan of Mosley to destroy F1

Favoured Products- Mifepristone

Favourite Sayings- OK, so the 2006 Formula 1 season is exciting, that’s got nothing to do with Max’s changes- No longer the pinnacle of motor sport

Marketing Tips- Other than a “Max Is Satan” t-shirt not much you can sell this lot

WANNABES Distinguishing Features

- Their cars have 5 point safety harness- Wear a HANS device when doing the shopping or having a shower

- Disproportionately developed neck muscles

Located- In front of the X-Box honing their skills for the pending call up to the show- Nearest kart track honing their skills for the pending call up to the show

Favoured Products- Any Formula 1 branded product

Favourite Saying- F1 is the pinnacle of motorsport- Kimi has great racecraft- I could do better than Ide

Marketing Tips- Stick an official Formula Logo on any piece of crud and they will lap it up

GRID GIRL CONNOSEUR Distinguishing Features

- Calluses on the inside of their hands- Blurred vision

Located- In front of a computer screen downloading “adult” entertainment- Nearest girly bar

Favoured Products- KY – Gel

Favourite Saying- Corrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Marketing Tips- Stick a picture of a gorgeous babe on any piece of crud and they’ll buy it.- Also largest consumer segment of “enlargement” techniques.

How to Get a Cheap Sports Car Auction

An enthusiastic buyer may want to check out the local auctions that are held in his area. Some good sports cars can be bought cheaply in these auctions.

However, the auction arena is not made for the faint-hearted buyer. Just like any other kind of auction, it is a stressful and fast environment.

One must attend a couple or more auctions before actually trying to purchase a car from this kind of activity.

Another downside of auctions is that there is no opportunity to test the car. In auctions, people buy cars "as they are."

Car ExchangeAuto Exchange Centers may offer you the best cars at very reasonable prices. Buyers might want to do a little Internet research since car exchange centers do advertise their merchandise on the Internet. Remember that the market for cheap sports cars is a buyers' market, which means that you hold the aces when negotiating prices.

Private SellerBuyers may also look for private sellers of sports cars. Some people need quick cash in cases of emergency so they are forced to sell their precious cars at very attractive prices. Be aware and watch out for such quality deals.

The problem with dealing with private sellers is that once the purchase is made, the buyer is left on his own. He cannot run back to the seller to complain.

Good Models that no one wantsThere are good sports car models out there that are being taken for granted by the market. Because of trends in sports car demand, some of the good ones are being left out. This is a good thing for buyers who are looking for value for their money. Some Jaguar, Austin-Healey and Morgan car models are out there, up for grabs at great prices.

Sports cars are luxury cars, but that does not necessarily mean that they should be expensive. Maybe the best things in life are not for free, but you can get good deals to get them. But at the end of the day, quality should be the main aspect that a buyer must look at in purchasing a cheap sports car.

How to Choose the Right Sports Car SeatsPurchasing sports seats for your car is considered as one of the ways of sprucing up and upgrading your vehicle. In fact, it is one of the not so used ways to customize a vehicle. You see, for most people, the common ways of upgrading a vehicle would be to change wheels, wheel covers, car seat covers, carpets, bumpers, and grilles.

Changing your car’s seats to sports seats may not be so popular however, there are some matters to take into consideration when you have decided that sports seats may be the best thing that could happen to your vehicle. After all, overlooked as they may seem, sports seats actually do not just provide your car with a sporty and aesthetic appeal but they also give you and your passengers comfort through long or short drives.

Before doing anything else, you should ask yourself how much are you willing to spend and how much could you really afford. By answering this first question, you would be able to check and ask around as per any sports seats that would fall within your budget range. Remember that sports seats come in a variety of options – each more sophisticated than the next. In fact, there are even sports seats that come with electronic adjustments of the lumbar support.

If you have no idea whatsoever as per the kind of sports seats that you would like for your car, you can check out automotive magazines. Or you can also visit automotive websites. If you choose to do so, you can also try contacting manufacturers to get the names of dealers of sports seats in your locality.

Upon visiting an auto parts store that offers sports car seats, make sure that you ask the store’s personnel to show you their collection of these. That way, you can personally inspect the seats so you could choose which ones to purchase. Consider the seats’ safety features.

Make sure that you choose those that has a high and close back rest which has the capacity to support and protect your back. Also make sure that it supports not only your back but your whole body as well.

How To Choose A Mountain BikeThe first thing to do before purchasing a bicycle for any reason is to know what your primary riding is going to be. Most people initially purchase a dual use bike, something that can be ridden on road and off road. Eventually, when the bug bites big it'll be time to invest in a bike that is all muscle for the mountains.

One of the ways that mountain bikes differ from other bikes is that they have very strong, lightweight frames, multiple gears, powerful breaks and wide tires.

A comfort bike, or recreational weekend bike, touring bikes and cruiser bikes are built more for comfort than durability.

WIthin the mountain bike category there are several types of bikes available; the cross country bike, the trials bike, the downhill bike and the jump/slalom bike.

Generally the largest percentage of mountain bikes sold are in the cross country, or XC classification. These are good dual purpose bikes. They are lightweight and good for riding over tough terrain, but they are also comfortable for road riding.

Jump/slalom bikes are also good dual purpose bikes. They are very strong and have an excellent front suspension.

Downhill and trial bikes are for serious mountain bikers. The downhill bikes have both front and rear suspension, disc breaks and are very strong.

A trial bike is for a very skilled rider. Trail riding itself is a very competitive sport demanding a lot of precision. Most riders of downhill and trail bikes build their bikes from scratch, choosing each component individually.

You will want to do a lot of reading about different types of bikes, and you'll want to visit many bike shops. A cross country mountain bike can cost between $600 and $800 or more. Some bikers say that your first bike should be the best bike you can possibly afford, even if you think that it's too much bike for you.

If you buy a low-end bike initially and then find you want to change components later it can get costly. Before choosing a bike you will want to ride it.

Most dealers allow for a 15 to 20 minute test ride. If you do a test ride make sure you go "off road" if you can, even if it's over curbs and grass. You want to get a feel for the bike.

How To Select Snow Skiing ClothesSki Clothing is manufactured to meet both function and fashion. It is essential to wear the appropriate clothing in Skiing because like in any Outdoor Activity, you are more susceptible to harmful influences when you are on the slopes.

You should keep in mind that you want to keep it warm and dry without unnecessary bulk. Here's what to wear to keep that mountain chill at bay on the slopes.

Ski Headgear is essential and you have to Choose skiing headgear according to your type of skiing, your skill level, and your comfort zone. Including; ski goggles that completely cover your eyes, block harmful sunrays, and also protect your eyes from wind and blowing snow.

Facemasks, A heat exchange facemask returns heat lost during exhaling back to your body as you inhale, protects your lungs from cold, and keeps your face dry and helps the rest of you stay warm, from your body’s core to the tips of your fingers and toes. Helmets, Good ski helmets are air vented and equipped with wicking liners to keep your head warm and dry as well as safe.

Base Layers, the clothes closest to your skin. Choose non-absorbent fabrics like silk or micro-knitted fleece. Many base layers today are built with an eye to fashion as well as function.

Mid-layer skiing clothes are the sweaters, sweatshirts, fleece shirts, and ski vests that you wear between your base layer and your ski jacket. It provides the insulation and part of the padding that keeps you comfortable and safe.

Ski trousers, although many skiers today favor trousers, salopettes, the traditional leg covering for skiing, are still popular skiing clothing. Ski trousers need to be both waterproof and weatherproof and they should fit snugly over your ski boots, yet allow you to bend easily at both the hip and knees.

Gloves or Mittens Both gloves and mittens should be waterproof to provide protection from cold. They have to be loose enough to allow for good circulation in your fingers yet tight enough that you can get a firm grip on your poles. In addition, your gloves or mittens should have enough padding to offer protection for your hands during a fall.

Ski socks should be thick and stretchy, snuggly conforming to your foot without slipping or lumping. Inner layers ski socks are made of lightweight, wicking fabrics that draw moisture into outer layers that quickly shed moisture and provide insulation.

Ski Jacket is your first defense against wind, cold, and water. Hooded jackets keep the wind off your neck as well as your back. Look for those with zip-out liners that let your ski in both the coldest and warmest conditions. Your ski jacket should also be large enough to accommodate thick, multi-layered clothing.

Ski Boots form the essential link between you and your Skis. The Ski Boots should connect perfectly to your Ski Bindings transferring all your body movements and pressure shifts directly to your Skis.

A good Ski Boot should have a snug fit with enough inside padding to prevent injuries and bruises but with a tough outer shell to protect you from overstretching. Choosing a good Ski Boot is essential for your Skiing Safety and enjoyment.

It is very important to know the different types of Ski Clothing, the materials they are made of, and the various features and characteristics of Ski Clothing so that you will be able to dress properly before going to the Ski area. You should know what to wear and how to dress for Skiing. Just bear in mind that having the right Ski Clothing is one of the keys for comfort while on the slopes.

How To Choose A Martial Arts SchoolTo reap the best benefits from martial arts, they should be taken as long term activities rather than short term. Given this suggestion, one should not just simply walk into the closest martial arts studio and sign up right away without doing some research.

Not all martial arts are alike and not all schools or studios are alike either. Therefore, it is important to really think about what your own needs are with respect to martial arts training.

The discussion of which martial art style to take is too extensive for this article. So what I will say here is that there are differences in the various styles of martial arts which may result in some being more suitable for certain individuals compared to others.

Do some research on the different styles and do visit the classes of different studios that teach different martial arts if possible. But more important is each individual school’s approach to teaching their martial arts. Many martial arts schools teach only techniques and forms (set routines) that are specific to a traditional style.

These schools follow the ways that the original founders of each martial art style developed and they have continued with minimal variance over the years. Other studios like to borrow techniques from a variety of martial art disciplines and integrate a mix into their programs. Some schools are non-traditional and adopt a more open free style system which incorporates traditional martial art techniques with gymnastics and open choreography of forms.

There are many clubs that do both traditional and open styles. Each school will claim that their martial art style and method of teaching is superior to others. Prospective students must not take these claims too seriously and choose an approach that would be best suited for them on an individual basis.

Many advertisements for martial arts schools push the backgrounds of their higher ranking instructors as a way to attract students. It is important to realize that the more degrees (or dans) a particular black belt has don’t always mean that the individual is a better instructor.

This is the same with instructors who have very successful competition records. There is no correlation to the number of world championship titles won with how good an instructor is.

The term ’master’ should also be taken with caution. A master doesn’t always make an excellent instructor. The teaching style of different instructors can vary. Some use the old Asian masters’ approach where discipline is strictly enforced much like in the military.

While general discipline is actually a good attribute to learn from martial arts training, some of the old ways of teaching, particularly reprimanding students vocally or physically for incorrect techniques may be considered a bit harsh for today’s society.

This is why it is important to watch classes of prospective martial arts schools you are interested in. You want to see the teaching style of an instructor to determine if it’s a style that would be compatible with you or not.

Ask questions after instructors have finished teaching. If you have the gut feeling that certain instructors will not be right for you, move on to find another club. Most legitimate schools will allow prospective students to witness or even try out a class for free before joining.

Related to teaching styles, some instructors emphasize safety more than others. The use of protective equipment and certain rules while sparring are factors. In addition to asking instructors, also ask other students about injury rates and their general feedback about the classes (ideally when they are outside of their schools). Another point on the students is that some schools attract a certain type of student profile. Observe the other students and decide whether these are people you would like to train with.

Some schools are very much into competition with active encouragement of students to participate in tournaments. In fact, some schools even make this a requirement in order to advance through the different levels.

Other schools have been known to restrict competition only within a particular circuit. For example, many tae know do clubs only participate in tournaments that are strictly Olympic style tae kwon do and never go to events that are open to all martial arts styles.

There are schools in the complete opposite end where they do not believe in competition at all and pretty well keep to themselves without any interaction with other martial arts clubs. Many Chinese kung fu clubs do not compete and some styles of martial arts such as aikido do not offer any competitive outlet.

Many martial arts schools choose to have a relaxed position towards competition where they leave it up to individual students to choose whether they want to participate in tournaments or not. Some schools have special competition teams where additional training is available for those students who wish to compete.

So as a prospective student, you should consider what involvement you would like in competition if any. If you know that you never want to compete, you should not get locked into a school that requires tournament competition. If you have a desire for competition, don’t join a studio that shuns competition.

Some martial arts schools teach in community centers, school gyms and even church basements. Some have bare bones studios with outdated equipment. Some schools have the latest martial arts and fitness equipment with sparkling clean change rooms and facilities. All of these will factor into the membership fee of each school. You have to determine what you are willing to pay for and what type of environment you will feel comfortable training in.

Many schools require annual contracts while some are on a month to month basis. There could be initiation fees. There could also be testing or grading fees for advancement. All of these extra costs will add up. Ask what happens if you have to freeze your membership due to extended illness or injury.

If one doesn’t really know whether martial arts is an activity for them in the long run, the option of taking short term courses such as those offered by community centers may be a viable alternative to making a full commitment to a dedicated martial arts club with its own studio space.

But do be aware that although martial arts can be very enjoyable from the first day you put on a karate uniform, it is a long term activity and one must have patience in order to benefit the most from martial arts.

Fortunately, there are many options in the form of different martial art styles and schools to choose from in the market today. Just make sure that you do some preliminary research before committing to any particular club.

Hobbies Introduction To Hunting

Hunting is an increasingly popular pastime for the whole family. With growing numbers of women taking up the sport, the opportunity to create special memories with the whole family in the outdoors is better now than ever before.

And whether you’re an experienced hunter, have been on a couple of duck or deer hunts or are just getting started, there are plenty of questions that need answering along the way.

Most of these are questions you end up musing over for a long time and never bother asking anyone. After all, these folks have been here before and asking what the draw weight of a bow for hunting elk is will mark you out as an inexperienced dullard.

But fear not – there are no stupid questions, and the best way to learn about hunting is to experience it.

The key to success in many areas of life is proper preparation. Hunting is an excellent example of this. Regardless of your experience level, being adequately prepared for the hunt will give you a distinct edge over other hunters in the area and can make all the difference between success and failure.

Of course, if you’ve planned your hunt to the nth degree, there’s still every chance you won’t bring home a kill. The most important thing to understand is that hunting is much more than running around the wilderness slaughtering animals. It’s an experience – one that generations of hunters around the world have learned, taught and shared with their friends and family across time. And the benefits each individual takes away from that experience vary just as much as the people who hunt.

There is plenty of wild life out there, as anyone who’s ever set foot into the less built-up areas of the world knows. And across North America, you can bet that plenty of people are making plans to hunt at least one thing in their local area in the coming seasons. Commonly hunted animals include the deer and elk, while more exotic species like bear, prong horn and sheep are also hunted in some areas.

The Secret to Fruitful Turkey HuntingYou may have found out by now that hunting turkeys is harder than it appears if you're a beginning or intermediate hunter. A turkey in the wild is a hard bird to hunt and pursue, even with it's name. They may have a humorous name, but the turkey has an unexpected intelligence and sharp vision.

It is extraordinarily hard to get close to and sneak up on a turkey and can take many years for a hunter to cultivate the skills it takes to perform this difficult task. However, with a superior form of cover, you can significantly raise your odds in turkey hunting and have the upper hand. This decreases the visibility for the turkeys and allows the hunter to get in close enough to make the shot.

For the hunter out on the field, the most effective kind of camouflage out there is the ghillie suit, which was developed over 150 years ago in the forests of Scotland. It's a suit that you can place over your regular clothes to drastically alter your form and dramatically lower your visibility of wild animals.

Strands of material like jute or burlap hang down all over the suit, making it hard for game to locate you. This blends the pattern and frame of the human wearer and makes them meld in to their environment. Ghillie camo is so efficient that it is possible for animals to come right up to a wearer that is being perfectly quiet.

A turkey's fine sense of sight is confused when human patterns are broken up with the assistance of a ghillie suit. In order for a person to successfully hunt a turkey, they must get in a range to have a kill shot to impede an injured turkey from scurrying off in the forests. By moving patiently and keeping low to the ground, a hunter can close the distance between them and a rafter of turkeys.

It is ideal to try and find turkeys at night as they are preparing to roost. It is really hard to stalk a turkey. In fact, there's a good chance it's already seen you if you spot a turkey on the field. It is challenging to sneak up behind them because they not only can see a great distance but also have a broad range to their vision. To keep predators from sneaking up on them, a group of turkeys will face each other in a circle to cover all angles of the field.

Staying in a single place and waiting in a heavily populated turkey area can be a somewhat slow process that requires a lot of time being really still. And then there's the possibility that before you get a chance to get a good shot the group of cautious turkeys will spot you as soon as you move and be on the retreat.

It might take patience and ingenuity, but it is possible to get within range of a gang of turkeys. With a powerful gun, a ghillie suit, and an effective turkey call you can get those turkeys once and for all.

Choosing Your Paintball EquipmentThere are several types of paintball equipment used while playing a game of paintball. Many of them serve important functions like providing safety, while some of them may be intended for cosmetic purposes only. There are also some nifty paintball accessories which can really come in handy when playing the game.

Paintball Gun:Paintball guns are replicas of actual firearms used to mark an opposing player with paint in the popular game of paintball. These guns propel paintballs through a barrel with a muzzle velocity of approximately 300 ft/s to break upon impact. Different types of paintball guns have different firing system such as Electro-pneumatic, mechanical, or gas-powered firing systems. Some of the more popular paintball guns include semi-automatic, stock class and pump guns.

Safety Equipment:- Paintball Mask:Paintball Masks protect the face by covering the eyes, mouths, ears and nostrils. Some masks are also equipped with throat guards. Lenses which come in double-layered or thermal designs are more reliable and the air chamber between the outer and inner lens prevent fogging.

High end mask products should be considered while playing paintball because most of them are designed to effectively halt speeding paintballs which normally travel at a speed of 200 to 300 ft/s. Polycarbonate or Lexan provides good impact resistance so be sure to check if the mask has lens made with those.

- Barrel cover:A barrel plug is normally a neoprene pouch attached over the barrel opening by a cord. This safety device prevents accidentally fired paintballs to cause any harm by blocking exit. A barrel sock is more effective in reducing the possibility of the safety equipment being detached from the marker/gun barrel.

Cleaning Equipment: - Squeegees:The barrel or breach of the paintball gun may collect dust or paintball debris. Squeegees, hinge-mounted rubber discs on the end of plastic rods, are used to clean these out by inserting the rubber end into the barrel. Cable squeegees, in which the rubber disc is mounted perpendicularly on the end of the cable, used to clean open breech and removable bolt paintball guns.

- Battle Swab:This is a double ended stick, with a bendable rubber section in the middle, which has a soft absorbent fur which is shoved down the length of the barrel to remove paint debris or paintball shell.

Common Accessories:- Drop forward and Rail:Drop forwards, which is attached to the bottom of the gun, drop the tank a few inches and move it forward. This makes the paintball marker/gun taller but shorter in length. Safety features may include on/off switch. Another alternative to drop forward, which has become more popular, is the rail system which enables a tank regulator to be mounted directly at the base of the grip.

- Remote line:Remote lines are cables attached to the tank from the paintball marker/gun so that user can easily move while handling the marker/gun.

- Pod:These are plastic containers that can hold about 140 to 200 paintballs. Pods may be equipped with springs at the top for quick opening, locking mechanism to prevent accidental opening, and shock absorbers to prevent paintballs from breaking.

- Harness:A harness, which holds the pods, provides the player with a convenient supply of paint. They may also be fitted with a pouch to hold the tank during a remote setup, a bellyband with hoops in the back for the pods and pockets for maps, radios, and hydration pouches.

Some Drawing Tips for BeginnersA child's first scribbling is something which it tries to express if you give a pencil in his hand. Drawing is relatively very simple and an easy skill and is something with which you can have great fun. It is also relatively not a very expensive hobby and can start with paper and a pencil.

It can go on till acquiring costly pen and tablets - a computer hardware through which you can draw on your computer. It is very costly; however the precision for perfection is very high.

Unlike earlier days, getting information on drawing and sketching is very easy and inexpensive. You can search information on Google and get various sites which teach drawing. Also, nowadays this art form is liked by many youngsters. Like all other art forms, with constant and systematic practice one can become a great artist.

Listed below are few drawing tips which can help anyone improve their skill and become an artist. Reading and practicing these in your daily routine will improve your skill.

1. If you are drawing and you are right handed person, ensure that the light is from your left side. This will prevent your hand shadow falling on your paper.

2. First step when you practice drawing - you should practice drawing line, straight line, curved line, scribbled lines, and your hand should obey the command of your thoughts and visions. You should control your hand and you should be able to bring out what you want.

3. You should further develop drawing circles, oval shapes, crossed lines and bold and thick lines. Just like how a baby develops from crawling stage to walking stage, your art should also develop step by step.

4. These lines and curves are like pillars to a building. The foundation should be strong enough to have a good building; similarly these initial small lines and curves will go a long way in your career. You should also start controlling the stress on your pencil. You should be able to bring the correct darkness and thickness in the lines what you draw.

5. Initially you will not be able to draw a circle or an oval shape correctly, nevertheless don't get discouraged. You should practice and practice until you get perfection. You should also keep all your drawings carefully from the start to know how you are improving. You could also date your sketches and preserve it for the future.

6. You should concentrate in the area where you feel you are weak. If you are not able to shade properly then learn more to do that. You can try out your own style of shading. Build your own individuality, never copy from another artist.

7. Last but not the least, use good quality materials. 4B and 6B pencils and good chart paper or note book with good quality paper should be sufficient to start with. Quality definitely matters hence never compromise on quality.

Games Sudoku – Mind Games At Their Best

Sudoku is a logic based puzzle, somewhat similar to a crossword puzzle, except it uses digits instead of words. The name Sudoku is an abbreviation of a Japanese phrase which means “the digits must remain single”. It is also sometimes called Number Place or Nampure.

The history of SudokuYou can find predecessors of Sudoku as early as 1895, when an early version or variant of Sudoku appeared in a French newspaper.

The game now known as Sudoku was not invented until 1979, however, and was actually invented in Indianapolis, not Japan. Sudoku became widely popular in 1986, when the Japanese puzzle publisher Nikoli found and published the puzzle.

The game of SudokuSudoku is based on a graph of squares, nine squares by nine squares. This graph is sub-divided into 9 3x3 squares or regions. The board looks much like 9 tic tac toe games all together.

The game is played by placing digits (1-9) in the squares on the game. Easy enough. The tough part is that each region (3x3 square, each diagonal row, each horizontal row, and each vertical row of squares must contain one of each of the nine digits, but may not have duplicates.

Each Sudoku game has some of the fields pre populated with numerals, called givens or clues. The difficulty is not necessarily related to how many fields are populated, though.

DifficultySudoku is a very simple game in it's construction, but it can require some serious brain effort and skill to solve. Publishers often rank games according to difficulty, using 4-5 levels to organize games by their difficulty.

AccessibilitySudoku puzzles are published in many newspapers and magazines around the world. They are also available in print form, and as computer games. Probably the easiest way to get them, though, is from a website that features free Sudoku puzzles. Many websites can also generate custom puzzles for free.

How to Play Texas Holdem For BeginnersTexas Holdem is by far the most common for of poker played today due to is popularity there are even several TV shows of the game.

Besides being popular texas Holdem is also the best game for a beginner to learn, the game can be learned after a few minutes and afte just a few hours of practice you can be playing fairly well against other beginners, but to really get good you must play often.

Texas Holdem is played the same way in the casino, online casinos and in your home with your pals.

Texas Holdem is played in the following manner: 1. Betting structures can vary. In Texas Holdem rarely are antes used. Most Texas Holdem games

start with first two players on the dealers left placing predetermined bets. These players are called the small and large blind, and their bets are called posting the blinds.

2. Each player receives 2 cards face down. These cards are called you pocket cards and they are the only cards that are unique to you.

3. After each player is dealt their hole cards a round of betting takes place starting with the player to the left of the 2 blinds this round of betting is called the pre-flop. Just like in any other poker game a player can call raise of fold during their turn.

4. After the Pre-Flop round is over the dealer will remove the top card from the deck and discard it, this is called the Burn Card. This is done to make sure that no cheating is done. The dealer will then turn over 3 cards in the center of the table. This round is called the Flop. Any player may use any of these cards to make the best 5 card hand possible, but you are not allowed to actually touch the cards, each player can use the same cards if it help them, this is why your hole cards are so important.

5. As with the pre-flop there is now another round of betting, it is at this point you will start to see players folding.

6. After the betting is over, the dealer will burn another card, then deal the fourth of the communal cards. This card is called the Turn card.

7. Again another round of betting begins and now is when you will start to see the size of the pot really grow.

8. One last time the dealer burns the top card before turning over the last card of the game, called the River card. Players now have all 5 of the communal cards and their own hole card to make the best 5 card hand.

9. One last chance is given to raise the bets or get out of the game. After this each player still in the game will show their cards. This is called the Showdown. The player with the best hand is declared the winner and wins the pot.

Now that you know the basic order of the game you are ready to start playing Texas Holdem. Holdem is a simple game to learn but if hard to master. This is the part that will take you many hand and many dollars, but if you put in the time you will be rewarded for it.

How To Do The Best Magic TricksIf you are a newbie magician and you want to improve your magic tricks, follow these tips and you are guaranteed to perform magic tricks that will amaze your audience.

Be Natural The secret in having a great sleight of hand is your naturalness. There should be no hand wagging, no hand waving, jerky or quick motions. You should work naturally, deliberately, and slowly. If you master this, balls, coins, rings, cards, and coins will begin reappearing and disappearing at the tips of your fingers.

Watching your anglesYou should be aware of your angles. Angles refer to the sleight lines between the item that you have just palmed off and the eye of your spectators. If you do not have the right angles, the audience could take a glimpse or see the object in your hand and your trick will be caught.

Practice your palming skills wherever you go The most necessary skill of a man with a great sleight of hand is the ability or skill of palming an object that goes undetected. You could perfect this after some time of practicing palming small objects like coins in your everyday normal routine.

You could palm a small object or item in both of your hands or either while writing, eating, watching TV, walking around, or doing other activities. If you practice care about the angles, no one would notice what you are doing, and after some time, what you are now doing self-consciously would later become almost natural to you. From then on, you could be able to palm objects or items more confidently, boldly, and successful each time.

Master your presentationPractice your presentation. A small trick that is well presented could work wonders even without the most sophisticated of techniques since the audience would most likely relate to your trick or understand it.

What good is a magician if nobody understands or enjoys his or her tricks? The presentations therefore should be straightforward, simple, and understood easily so that your viewers or watchers could understand and enjoy the complete meaning of what you have been saying and doing.

Do not replicate a trickDo not repeat the same trick for the same viewers or watchers. That is one of the basic rules in doing magic. When you repeat a trick, your audience would immediately know what you are going to do next. What may have been a miracle for you when you did your trick for the first time may not be quite satisfying or dazzling the next time around.

The 3 Secrets Of MagiciansMagicians have their secrets but they won’t tell. It’s a sworn oath for magicians not to tell the audience how a trick is done. There are 3 secrets though that they’ve shared all throughout the years. Here are their 3 secrets.

The first secret is that some tricks are done through sleight of hand. These are ways with which they skillfully hide an object and make it reappear on another hand. New magicians hide things up their sleeves. Those are old tricks and very few used them now.

Sleights of hand require a lot of practice to master. Beginners of magic use specially created gimmicks to create the illusion. Professional magicians make use of their impressive sleight of hand. It requires a lot of time, patience and hand coordination to fully understand and do.

Another secret is the art of misdirection. See this blank paper? And as audience looks at the blank paper, he is carefully getting another piece with his other hand. This is misdirection. Another type of misdirection is the kind that doesn’t let the audience see what’s really causing the tricks. You might have seen that a magician has a lot of assistants who also do incredible stuff, but what you didn’t know is that they are helping the magician perform the magic just with their presence.

Another kind of misdirection is the appropriate use of words. For example, a magician will tell you to look at the ‘empty’ box. We tend to look at the box as empty just because he said it. This causes our mind to wonder when the magician gets a rabbit out of it.

Misdirection takes a lot of practice and lots of time in planning. It requires body coordination (one body doing something while the other is doing another thing) and quick thinking. Misdirection is an art and magicians are proud of it.

Another secret is their patter or a magician’s constant talk. Misdirection is achieved mostly because of patter. The magician will ask you to look at his right hand and as you are looking, you won’t notice what his left hand is doing. This is a really clever way to achieve the illusion that what happens next becomes so magical with the wink of an eye.

Patter usually takes the form of a story, where a magician will tell you of something that happened to him someday. Sometimes it’s so funny that we actually forget to look at what their hands are doing or what their assistants are giving them.

Recreation Tips For Getting Started In Astronomy

When you are thinking about astronomy, the first thing that comes to mind is a telescope. This misconception is found every day. Actually, the first thing you need to do is look at the stars with a pair of binoculars.

You cam spend hundreds of dollars on a telescope that might not be the right one. One thing that star glazers will tell you is that some of the lunar eclipses and bright comets look better with binoculars than with a high-powered telescope.

You need to look around the sky with a star map and learn about the stars and other objects in space before you jump in and buy a telescope. Sometimes what you see through a telescope will be ugly, where as through the binoculars, it is a beautiful focused site to see. Once you learn about the stars themselves, you will have a better understanding of what you are looking at and how far away it really is.

After you learn about the sky above you are ready to look for a telescope. Before rushing out and buying a telescope, you should find some astronomers who will share their experiences and maybe even their telescopes with a group. Trying out a telescope before you buy it is something that will help you decide on what telescope will be best for you.

Some things to consider are what you plan to do with the telescope, how much you have to spend and are you going to take photographs of your sightings. If you are a causal backyard astronomer, you might even look at the Dobsonian telescopes. Never worry about power, but be more concerned about aperture and optics. If you will be viewing planets, you will need a telescope with high magnification. You would not want to buy a telescope with 600 power, as it will not have the aperture needed.

Most professional astronomers use a reflector type of telescope. This is where the light path is diverted to the concave lens or eyepiece. With the refractor telescopes, the light passes through the telescope by way of a lens to the eyepiece. In some of the opinions from astronomers, the refractor is the best type of telescope for looking at the solar system. However, reflectors are cheaper than the refractors. Reflector telescopes are recommended for beginning astronomers.

You will find areas with complete darkness are the best, but city viewing is fine if you have very little light to distract your viewing. Keep in mind that planet viewing is spectacular. You can see the ring around Saturn as well as view Venus. Jupiter, which changes every time you view it, is an amazing planet to keep an eye on.

You will want to have a star map, planet map and keep an eye on the news to find out when any interesting things are appearing in the solar system. Experience the sighting of a comet or meter shower, you will find that astronomy is a great way to spend the evening by yourself or with friends.

Stargazing Through An Online TelescopeIn today's modern hi-tech world, we are able to converse with people half way around the world with a click of the computer mouse. The Internet has opened up a whole new world of information and communication. Well, the field of astronomy is no exception and has ushered in a new way of viewing the heavens - through an online telescope.

Online telescope viewing is relatively new, but can be a real benefit to those who do not own a telescope, or a telescope with photographic capabilities, and have a real interest in stargazing.

Through the comforts of our own homes, we can now capture, view and study images that are obtained through observatories of celestial bodies throughout the cosmos. The Internet has provided us the opportunity to view new worlds beyond our own by accessing an online telescope.

How Does an Online Telescope Work?The process of using an online telescope for viewing the stars and planets is relatively easy once you understand what information is required. You first will need to coordinate the viewing times and dates. Participating observatories will coordinate your request, generally initiated through an email from you, and schedule the event. You should receive an email back from the observatory confirming the subject sighting, date and time.

The online telescope camera will record the viewing of the requested location or object and post them at a particular website address. You will be notified via email of the location to view your pictures. Usually, you can just simply click on the imbedded link in the email and you will be sent to the viewing page for detailed photos provided by the camera of the online telescope.

Just having access to some of the top observatories' telescopes for your own personal stargazing needs is incredible. The only thing better than viewing the universe through the online telescope images would be to have your own live online telescope. Unfortunately, this option would cost millions of dollars and, for most of us, exceed our stargazing budgets.

Different Online Telescope Viewing OptionsWhen you make your request to the observatory, you can ask that the online telescope be utilized in a few different ways:

- Specify Certain Astronomical Coordinates

The first viewing method will be specific to certain coordinates. The coordinates may correspond to the position of a specific star, planet, solar system, etc. If you are confused about the specific coordinates to provide the online telescope observatory, catalogs are available of the celestial bodies and their respective locations.

- Request a Specific Planet, Star, or System

Another method that might be slightly easier is to request a specific star or planet be photographed by the online telescope. The observatory can also provide a more general image of larger areas of space. In addition, the participating observatory may grant requests for the use of different colored filters for your images.

If you are an amateur astronomer and want to experience the power and quality of a multi-million dollar piece of astronomy equipment, go to the Internet and search for 'online telescope' or 'camera online telescope'. There you will find participating observatories that are willing to open up the universe to you through their telescope's exceptional images of the cosmos!

How To Set Up A Halloween Party For AdultsAre you planning on hosting a Halloween party? If you are, then ask yourself if you know what kind of party it’s going to be. You might consider throwing a Halloween party for adults. It’s easy to plan, and a fun way to spend some quality time with your friends and family.

In fact, it’s easier to plan a Halloween party aimed at adults than it is to set one up for kids, or for people of all ages. That said, there is a quite a bit of preparation and planning involved, and you’ll have to start early.

The sooner you do, the sooner you can begin the festivities and enjoy yourself.

Invitations are an important thing, as with any other party. You should probably even invite people before you begin planning the rest of the party. Holiday seasons are always busy, and you’ll want to give people breathing space by making the invitations early, ideally a month beforehand. Make clear on your invitations that your party is for adults, as your guests may well end up bringing their kids otherwise.

Once the invitations, or at a minimum, your guest list, has been taken care of, you should begin arranging the rest. First of all, figure out what kinds of refreshments you’ll be offering. Naturally, since you’ll be catering to adults, you should have a well-stocked bar. It’s not obligatory to have alcohol at a Halloween party, of course, but it’s nice to have it on hand for those who want. Think also about what kind of other food and drink you’ll need. Will you serve dinner at your party? If you don’t plan to, then get a good assortment of snacks.

Games aren’t just for kids. It’s also lots of fun for adults to play party games. They’re a great way to keep your guests entertained. You can find a good variety of games geared towards adults online by doing a simple search. You can also go to your local retail store. The games don’t necessarily have to relate to Halloween. Just choose something fun.

Decide also where exactly your party will be held in your home. It’s pretty common for people to throw parties that will extend into several rooms, but it’s ultimately your call. It’s possible to have one in the dining room, living room, kitchen, rec room, den, and so on. It depends on how big your party will be and what you have planned.

As well as cleaning and beautifying the rooms you’ll be using, you should figure out what kinds of decorations you’ll be using to contribute to your Halloween theme. There’s no point having a Halloween party without throwing in some scary-looking decorations, after all. They will really fill the air with a holiday spirit and give your party character.

Hosting a Halloween party for adults is a major undertaking, but it will be lots of fun to plan. If you start out early, get everything set up right, and make sure your family and friends are able to come, you can be sure your party will be a success before it even begins.

A Guide To Piano For BeginnersClasses that involve piano for beginners would include an introduction to reading and understanding the keys, chords and how to read musical notes. The piano is unlike any other instrument and sounds wonderful as stand alone music or as part of a group. The intense sound of a piano is one that captivates audiences with power or soothes them with serenity.

Budding musicians always find it exciting to explore the world of piano for beginners. Whether this is their first venture playing the piano or being used as a reminder of forgotten skills, piano for beginners is a terrific way to develop or improve skills.

The most popular place to find a piano for beginners class would be a local high school or college university music department. Occasionally, instructors will offer piano tutoring to non-students. Students, on the other hand, will have a variety of choices within the music curriculum. Otherwise, a quick visit to a local specialty music store may provide leads on potential instructors.

When learning piano for beginners, it’s important for hopefuls to select the best instructor by evaluating his/her experience, educational background and accomplishments. The most commonly sought instructors will possess some type of music degree or an equivalent amount of musical experience.

A potential instructor should be interviewed regarding their history in music, fee requirements, length of classes, policy on missed sessions, etc. If the learner’s schedule is particularly hectic, he/she may wish to enlist the help of a private tutor as opposed to a group instructor.

Music lessons offered in a group will be scheduled by the instructor and will be less flexible toward each individual learner’s schedule. This is not to say that group lessons are not an excellent way to learn piano for beginners because they are. Simply put, private tutors are better for anyone with a hectic or unpredictable schedule.

For example, a private tutor will have a more flexible schedule and may be willing to work around that of the learner’s daily routine. Whereas group classes are often held at the same time on a certain night, or nights, each week, a private tutor can be scheduled at any time during the day or evening without having to abide by a preset schedule.

Internet courses, on the other hand, offer learners with the option of learning piano for beginners in the comfort of their own home at any time during the day or night. After all, where else could you learn piano in your pajamas?

Perhaps that most fun way to learn the piano for beginners is to just start playing. Some of the world’s most famous musicians are self-taught, so don’t be afraid to go solo until you get comfortable with the keys and each of their unique sounds.

Professional instruction is certainly the most desirable, but there is nothing wrong with a little practice before signing up for class. In fact, the more familiar you are with the piano, the sooner you will be on your way to the Grammy awards. Hey, you never know!

Learning the Basics of the GuitarYou can buy either a second hand guitar or a brand new one, depending on whichever you think will suit you best.

Once you have bought yourself a guitar, you can actually start taking beginner lessons.

Beginner lessons are guitar classes taught to newcomers so they are familiar with the basics of the guitar and how to play it. The first thing you will be taught is not how to play the instrument, but what the different parts of the guitar are.

All websites providing online beginner guitar lessons start their teachings from this point. This makes sense because it is not a good idea to learn a musical instrument without first knowing its various parts. Along with knowing each part of the guitar, you also have to learn the functions of each individual part. Knowing the different parts of the guitar and their functions familiarizes you with the instrument.

Basic Steps to Beginner Guitar Lessons

After teaching you the different parts of the guitar and their functions, the next thing beginner guitar lessons teach you are the names of the different strings on the guitar. Did you know that all guitars do not necessarily have the standard six strings? There are guitars that have twelve strings too!

After learning about the strings, the next step is to learn the different ways you can play the guitar. How many postures can you think of, in which to play the guitar? While you can be imaginative and think up numerous postures, the basic postures are standing up, and sitting down!

Learning about the postures also teaches you the different grips you can use to hold the guitar while playing. Once you are through with these basics, the next thing that you learn in beginner guitar lessons is actually how to use the guitar. This includes how to form the different chords, how to hit the strings such that you get the proper sound, etc.

Beginner Guitar Lessons - The Importance of Guitar Theory

There is one school of thought that emphasizes the need to know guitar theory while taking beginner guitar lessons. The logic for this is simple: once you know the basic theory, it becomes easier to learn the chords. However, this is not a mandatory practice; in fact, many online guitar tutorials do away with the need for knowledge of guitar theory as a prerequisite for learning the chords and other complex things about the guitar.

Basically, the need for guitar theory knowledge depends primarily on your level of interest in the instrument. If you are planning to take up playing the guitar full-time, it makes sense to know the theoretical aspects as well. However, if you are taking it up as just something you want to learn so you can play some of your favorite numbers, then it makes sense to just go ahead with the online tutorials alone and learn the different chords.

Now that you have a solid game plan, it's time for you to get out there and start taking your own beginner guitar lessons!

Wood Finishing and Weatherproofing GuidelinesTo keep wood garden sheds, arbors, or trellises looking their best, consider using a wood finishing product such as sealer, stain, or outdoor paint. Wood finishing protects exposed wood from sun, water, insect, and fungal damage.

Here's a list of some common wood finishing products: Wood Sealer: Wood sealer blocks the pores of the wood,

while still allowing natural fading and weathering.

Stain: Stain penetrates the wood, and unlike paint, it does not trap moisture and cause blistering or peeling. Stains come in many colors, and in transparent or solid applications. Reapply the stain every other year to keep the color fresh.

Paint: Exterior paint protects the wood surface and is available in every conceivable color. The garden shed or arbor must be sanded and primed before application. Remember that aging paint flakes and cracks, so you'll need to scrape and sand again to refinish the wood down the road.

If none of those appeal to you, there are some other low maintenance wood finishing options: Vinyl Siding: For wood garden sheds, you can use vinyl siding instead of wood siding. Vinyl siding

is ultra low maintenance, comes in many colors, and only requires periodic cleaning (once a year) with water to keep its fresh appearance.

Unfinished Cedar: If your wood garden shed or arbor is made from cedar, (such as Western Red Cedar), you can choose to leave it unfinished. Cedar does not warp, and it contains natural preservatives that prevent rot. Natural weathering over time turns unfinishedcedar a lovely sliver-gray color.

Applying wood finishing products is easy with the right tools Stains and sealers can be applied with a brush roller, pad, or spray gun. Check the wood finishing manufacturer instructions. Apply two coats and expect to reapply every two the five years.

Water Based Wood FinishesYou're a born do-it-yourselfer, and now that you are starting a family or buying a new home, you may be buying new furniture. Because you know that unfinished furniture has a higher quality, is a better value over time, and gives you more flexibility of style and size choices, you purchase a beautiful unfinished crib, armoire, and baby changer from your local unfinished furniture store.

Or maybe you love your new house, but the kitchen cabinets need updating. Maybe you're pulling up the old carpet in your home and re-finishing the wood floors. Here's where the fun of self-expression comes in. Now which stain or paint to choose? Read on to learn why using water based finishes offers many advantages and why they are the best choice for you and your family.

A Green ProductBasically, there are two types of stains and topcoats, solvent based and water based. Solvent, or oil based finishes, contain roughly 50% petroleum distillants, which release polluting hydrocarbons into the atmosphere. Water based finishes are 50% water, which is a non-pollutant, leading to increased safety and comfort.

SafetyWhere solvent based lacquers are highly flammable, water based finishes are non-flammable, and therefore safer to use in your home. Materials that have been soaked in solvent based finishing products can cause a fire hazard if not disposed of in accordance to your local fire department regulations. So go Green and use environmentally friendly water based finishes!

Vibrant ColorChoosing water based finishes opens up a wider range of color choices: shades of red, green, blue, and yellow that are not available in oil based finishes are available as water based. Water based finishes also offer a full range of wood tones. Plus the colors maintain their beauty over time. You can even create unique, custom colors by mixing two shades.

Whether you want comfortable classic colors, pretty pastels, or brilliant hues, furniture color is the perfect way to enhance a neutral room, add a touch of whimsy, or create coordinated spaces. Although water based top coats are milky white in the can, they dry to a crystal clear finish, and will remain clear throughout the life of your project. In contrast, oil based top coats have a slight amber color in the can, and will darken slightly over time.

Saves You TimeWater based finishes dry very quickly. So, instead of your project taking weeks, you can start and finish your project over a weekend. In ideal conditions (70 degrees and 70% humidity),dry time is usually only two to four hours.

Higher humidity or cooler temperatures do require longer dry times, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's specific guidelines. Another way that using this type of finish saves you time - clean up is a breeze!

The Basics To Antique FurnitureAntiques may be of many different kinds and of all the antique collectibles and furniture happens to be the most popular and practical choice. Antique furniture is distinct from other categories of antiques in the sense that no one collects the same type of object repeatedly.

It means that you would not want to buy and collect only tables or chests and fill up your home with everything the same. However, you may have a specific liking to certain wood or style.

Regardless of your preference, if you are planning to purchase antique furniture, you need to know the basics. In other words, you should have some idea about various styles, techniques of construction, finishes and variety of woods used.

You will need this knowledge to determine if a particular piece is original (in its original state without any major changes) or altered (if some major alterations or additions have been made to it.)

Once you are acquainted with the basics, go to as many antique furniture dealers and auctions as you possibly can. When inspecting the merchandise, don’t hesitate in pulling out drawers, getting down on your knees to look at the underside of tabletops or lifting chairs to have a look at their legs. If you don’t get down and dirty, you will never learn.

In the beginning, furniture was crafted from solid wood but with improvement in cabinet making techniques, furniture decoration by applying veneers (thin sheets of wood) was developed. This provided an inexpensive method of creating decorative effects from different grains and patterns.

It was also an economical technique that made inexpensive woods look like expensive hard woods. Such furniture had a solid body called a carcass that is made of a different, generally less expensive wood, like pine. Some of the woods used in antique furniture are beech, cherry, chestnut, ebony, elm, mahogany, pine, oak, satinwood, walnut etc.

The following features are significant when determining the age, authenticity, quality and worth or price of antique furniture:

I - Color and Patina: Patina is the glow of the wood after years of accumulation of wax polish and dirt. A rich subtle color is also an important characteristic of antique furniture.

II - Proportion: A disproportionate piece of furniture may well be a “marriage” of different parts from different furniture.

III - Construction: Before the late 17th century, furniture was made using mortise and tendon joints and pegs were handmade.

IV - Condition: Do not ignore pieces with marks or blemishes as the wood has not been damaged. A good restorer can undo surface spots. Antique furniture in it original pristine condition is worth the highest price.

V - Alterations: Altered furniture is always less desirable than the original piece. Telltale alterations include large pieces reduced in size, freshly cut surfaces, plugged holes, repositioned handles etc.

Now that you know what to look for, the question is where to look for antique furniture?

Well, apart from auctions and dealers, you can always check the classifieds section in the paper to see if anybody’s selling furniture and go check it out.

You might even find a good bargain this way. Also, you will find many sites that sell antique furniture on the internet or you could use the internet to find out where you could go to get good deals on antique furniture.

Wood-Burning Stoves - Timeless ClassicsWood-burning stoves can be installed in any room of your house, but most often they are placed in living or dining rooms, as well as in patios.

While traditional fireplaces generally work as a piece of décor, free-standing wood-burning stoves are generally used for more practical purposes, namely, for heating and even cooking.

Thanks to new designs, your wood-burning stove will look attractive and still remain perfectly functional. Because it isn't attached to the wall, a wood-burning stove will radiate more heat throughout a small or large room.

Most often, wood-burning stoves are usually built of stainless steel, soapstone or ceramics study stone and brick but can remain sleek and contemporary thanks to new materials such as fireproof glass and stainless steel details.

The shape of these stoves is most commonly tall and cylindrical, with built-in wood storage under the burning chamber.

When choosing a new wood-burning stove, keep in mind that the size of your wood-burning stove is determined by the size of the space that needs to be heated. The fire of the stove should be substantial enough to please the eye as well as heat the room, but too much fire can literally turn your place into an oven.

When picking a place to put your new stove, avoid traffic areas such as doors. A stove surrounded by windows may be a good solution. The fire chamber door should face the room.

Don't forget to take stovepipe requirements into the account, making sure they are in compliance with your local building codes. Since wood-burning stoves are not strictly fireplaces, they don't require any clearance between the fire chamber and surrounding combustible materials, such as wood or fabric.

Conventional wood-burning stoves vary in heat efficiency because their construction can be very different, too. The efficiency of a wood-burning stove depends on how much of its combustion energy turns to heat, which in its turn depends on how well it burns wood.

Even the best wood-burning stoves don't burn all wood completely. The smoke is actually composed of unburned wood particles. Another factor that impacts the wood-burning stove's efficiency is how much heat escapes through the chimney.

To improve the efficiency of your wood-burning stove, consider a chimney sweep in the first place. This should be done by a professional fireplace expert. If you noticed that a lot of smoke is produced during the wood burning, you may need to alter the size of your stove opening, or reconfigure the existing fire chamber.

If you notice that a lot of hot air escapes through the chimney, you may consider replacing the fire basket - the metal rack that supports the burning logs. New designs of fire baskets can greatly improve air circulation and heat efficiency.

Wood burning stoves today offer a great variety of looks and designs to suit any home style, from a retro Victorian house to a steel loft condo. Painted black, brushed steel or even red, with stovepipe to match, wood burning stoves with generous glass doors allow you admire the dancing flames during the cold winter season.

Success Is Yours!

Best Regards,

Dann Byers.